Printed material delivery system server

Abstract

The objective is to provide a server for a print distribution system that ensures the confidentiality of printed materials. [Solution] The print delivery system server has a communication interface and a processor. The communication interface communicates with a first terminal, a second terminal and an image forming apparatus. The processor obtains user information from the first terminal, obtains document information from the first terminal, obtains storage box information from the image forming apparatus regarding a storage box that stores printed materials printed by the image forming apparatus, has a locking mechanism for locking the opening, and is detachable from the image forming apparatus, requests the image forming apparatus to print based on the document information, and after receiving a print completion signal from the image forming apparatus, transmits delivery destination information and storage box information based on user information to the second terminal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an image forming apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is a system that receives a print request from a user online, prints based on the requested document, and delivers the printed matter to the user's home. However, in this system, there is a problem that the confidentiality of the printed content of the printed matter is not maintained because human intervention occurs after printing. In addition, on the delivery side, there is a problem that it takes time and effort to collect and enclose the printed matter.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a server for a printed matter delivery system that satisfies the confidentiality of printed matter.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] It should be noted that there may be some inaccuracies in the translation as the original text contains some tags and unclear notations. But overall, it adheres to the translation rules as much as possible.A print delivery system server according to one embodiment includes a communication interface and a processor. The communication interface communicates with a first terminal, a second terminal, and an image forming apparatus. The processor obtains user information from the first terminal, obtains document information from the first terminal, obtains storage box information from the image forming apparatus regarding a storage box that stores printed materials printed by the image forming apparatus, has a locking mechanism for locking the opening, and is detachable from the image forming apparatus, requests the image forming apparatus to print based on the document information, and after receiving a print completion signal from the image forming apparatus, transmits delivery destination information and storage box information based on user information to the second terminal. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram showing an example configuration for a printed materials delivery system. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing an example configuration for a printed materials delivery system. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus and storage box. [Figure 4] This table shows an example of a user information database stored in the server's memory. [Figure 5] This table shows an example of an image forming apparatus information database stored in the server's memory. [Figure 6] This table shows an example of a delivery driver terminal information database stored in the server's memory. [Figure 7] This table shows examples of request information storage sections in a server's memory. [Figure 8] This diagram shows an overview of the print delivery flow in a print delivery system. [Figure 9] This diagram shows an overview of the print delivery flow in a print delivery system. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] The following describes the printed material delivery system 1 with reference to the diagrams.

[0008] Figures 1 and 2 are schematic diagrams showing an example configuration of a printed material delivery system 1 according to an embodiment. The printed material delivery system 1 includes a user terminal 2 (first terminal), an image forming apparatus 3, a storage box 4, a server 5, and a delivery person terminal 6 (second terminal). The user terminal 2 and the server 5 are connected communicatively via a network. The server 5, the image forming apparatus 3, and the delivery person terminal 6 are connected communicatively via a network. The image forming apparatus 3 and the storage box 4 are connected communicatively via short-range communication technology. The storage box 4 and the delivery person terminal 6 are connected communicatively via short-range communication technology.

[0009] The user terminal 2 will now be described. The user terminal 2 is a terminal operated by a user who uses the print delivery system 1. The user terminal 2 may be, for example, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a smartphone, a tablet, etc. In this embodiment, the user terminal 2 will be described as a desktop computer.

[0010] User terminal 2 includes, for example, a processor 21, memory 22, a user interface 23, and a network interface 24. In Figures 1 and 2, the user interface is abbreviated as UI, and the network interface is abbreviated as NW I / F. The processor 21, memory 22, user interface 23, and network interface 24 are housed in a chassis (not shown).

[0011] The processor 21 is an arithmetic element (e.g., a CPU) that performs arithmetic processing. The processor 21 performs various processes based on data such as programs stored in the memory 22. The processor 21 functions as a control unit capable of performing various operations by executing programs stored in the memory 22.

[0012] Memory 22 is a storage device that stores programs and data used by those programs. Memory 22 also temporarily stores data being processed by the processor 21. Memory 22 is configured as both non-volatile and volatile memory.

[0013] The user interface 23 includes a display and an operation interface (not shown). The display shows a screen in response to a video signal input from the processor 21. For example, the display shows a screen for user information input during user authentication in the print delivery system 1. The operation interface supplies operation signals to the processor 21 in response to the operation of an operation component. The operation component is, for example, a touch sensor, microphone, numeric keypad, various function keys, keyboard, or mouse. The touch sensor is, for example, a resistive touch sensor or a capacitive touch sensor. The touch sensor acquires information indicating a specified position within a certain area. The touch sensor is configured as a touch panel integrated with the display and inputs a signal indicating the touched position on the screen displayed on the display to the system controller.

[0014] The network interface 24 is an interface for communicating with the server 5 over the network.

[0015] The image forming apparatus 3 will now be described. The image forming apparatus 3 is, for example, a multifunction printer (MFP) that performs various processing such as image formation while transporting a printing medium. The image forming apparatus 3 is, for example, a solid-state scanning printer (e.g., an LED printer) that scans an LED array that performs various processing such as image formation while transporting a printing medium. Alternatively, the image forming apparatus 3 may be an inkjet printer (inkjet printer) that scans an inkjet head that ejects ink, or a printer of another type.

[0016] The image forming apparatus 3, for example, charges a photosensitive drum and irradiates the photosensitive drum with light corresponding to print image data, thereby forming an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum. The image forming apparatus 3 attaches toner to the latent image formed on the photosensitive drum, transfers the toner attached to the latent image to a print medium, and forms a toner image on the print medium. Further, the image forming apparatus 3 applies heat and pressure to the print medium to which the toner image has been transferred, thereby fixing the toner image on the print medium.

[0017] The image forming apparatus 3 includes a processor 31, a memory 32, a user interface 33, a network interface 34, an image forming unit 35, a conveyance unit 351, a joining unit 36, a joining unit sensor 37, and a short-range communication unit 38. The processor 31, the memory 32, the user interface 33, the network interface 34, the image forming unit 35, the joining unit 36, the joining unit sensor 37, and the short-range communication unit 38 are housed in a housing illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0018] The processor 31 is an arithmetic element (e.g., a CPU) that executes arithmetic processing. The processor 31 performs various processes based on data such as programs stored in the memory 32. The processor 31 functions as a control unit capable of executing various operations by executing the programs stored in the memory 32.

[0019] The memory 32 is a storage device that stores programs and data used in the programs. Further, the memory 32 temporarily stores data during the processing of the processor 31. The memory 32 is configured as a non-volatile memory and a volatile memory.

[0020] The user interface 33 includes a display and an operation interface (not shown). The user interface 33 supplies operation signals to the processor 31 in response to operations performed by the user using the image forming apparatus 3. The display shows a screen in response to video signals input from the processor 31. The operation interface supplies operation signals to the processor 31 in response to operations performed by operation members. Operation members include, for example, touch sensors, microphones, numeric keypads, various function keys, or keyboards. The touch sensor is, for example, a resistive touch sensor or a capacitive touch sensor. The touch sensor acquires information indicating a specified position within a certain area. The touch sensor is configured as a touch panel integrated with the display and inputs a signal indicating the touched position on the screen displayed on the display to the system controller.

[0021] The network interface 34 is an interface for communicating with the server 5 over the network.

[0022] The image forming unit 35 forms an image based on document information on the surface of the printing medium based on the control of the processor 31. The printing medium is, for example, standard-sized printing paper, roll paper, RFID media with a built-in RFID tag, or film.

[0023] The image forming unit 35 includes, for example, a process unit, an exposure unit, a transfer mechanism, a fuser, and a transport unit 351.

[0024] The process unit comprises a photosensitive drum, a charging charger, and a developing unit. The photosensitive drum is a photoreceptor comprising a cylindrical drum and a photosensitive layer formed on the outer surface of the drum. The photosensitive drum rotates at a constant speed by a drive mechanism (not shown).

[0025] A charging charger uniformly charges the surface of the photosensitive drum. For example, a charging charger uses a charging roller to apply a voltage to the photosensitive drum, thereby charging the drum to a uniform negative potential.

[0026] A developer is a device that deposits toner onto a photosensitive drum. The developer comprises a developer container, an agitation mechanism, a developing roller, and a doctor blade. The developer container receives and stores the toner dispensed from the toner cartridge. A carrier is pre-filled within the developer container. The toner dispensed from the toner cartridge is agitated with the carrier by the agitation mechanism, forming a developer mixture of toner and carrier. The carrier is placed inside the developer container during the manufacturing of the developer. The developing roller rotates within the developer container, depositing the developer onto its surface. The doctor blade is positioned at a predetermined distance from the surface of the developing roller. The doctor blade removes a portion of the developer adhering to the surface of the rotating developing roller. This forms a layer of developer on the surface of the developing roller with a thickness corresponding to the distance between the doctor blade and the surface of the developing roller.

[0027] The exposure unit is equipped with multiple light-emitting elements. The exposure unit forms a latent image on a charged photosensitive drum by irradiating it with light from the light-emitting elements. The light-emitting elements are, for example, light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Each light-emitting element is configured to irradiate light onto a single point on the photosensitive drum. Multiple light-emitting elements are arranged in the main scanning direction, which is parallel to the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum. The exposure unit forms a single line of latent image on the photosensitive drum by irradiating it with light using the multiple light-emitting elements arranged in the main scanning direction. Furthermore, the exposure unit forms multiple lines of latent images by continuously irradiating the rotating photosensitive drum with light.

[0028] In the above configuration, when light from the exposure unit is shone onto the surface of the photosensitive drum, which has been charged by the charging charger, an electrostatic latent image is formed. When the layer of developer formed on the surface of the developing roller comes into close proximity to the surface of the photosensitive drum, the toner contained in the developer adheres to the latent image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum. As a result, a toner image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum.

[0029] The transfer mechanism is configured to transfer the toner image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum to the printing medium. The transfer mechanism comprises a primary transfer belt, a secondary transfer roller, and several other rollers. The transfer mechanism receives the toner image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum onto the outer surface of the primary transfer belt. The transfer mechanism transports the toner image on the outer surface of the primary transfer belt to the transfer nip where the secondary transfer roller and the outer surface of the primary transfer belt are in close contact. The transfer mechanism transfers the toner image on the outer surface of the primary transfer belt to the surface of the printing medium by passing the printing medium supplied by the transport unit 351 through the transfer nip.

[0030] The fuser unit is configured to fix the toner image transferred to the surface of the printing medium to the surface of the printing medium. The fuser unit comprises a heating element (heat roller) that applies heat to the printing medium, a pressing element (press roller) that applies pressure to the printing medium, and a heater that heats the heat roller. The press roller applies pressure to the heat roller, forming a fixing nip where the press roller and the heat roller are in close contact. The fuser unit applies heat and pressure to the printing medium by passing the printing medium, to which the toner image has been transferred by the transfer mechanism, through the fixing nip. In this way, the fuser unit fixes the toner image formed on the surface of the printing medium.

[0031] The transport unit 351 supplies the printing media, which are housed in a storage unit (not shown) that houses the printing media, one by one to the transfer mechanism and the fuser, and stores the printed media with the image formed on them in a storage box 4 outside the housing via the transport path 352 and the joint 36.

[0032] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the image forming apparatus 3 and the storage box 4.

[0033] The joint portion 36 is a mechanism that mechanically connects to the storage box 4. The joint portion sensor 37 detects the storage box 4 connected to the joint portion 36. It is desirable that the joint portion 36 is configured such that the storage box 4 cannot be removed from the image forming apparatus 3 from the time the image forming apparatus 3 starts printing until the transport of the printed material is completed. The joint portion 36 in this embodiment has a mechanically extendable projection 361, and the projection 361 is configured to engage with a hole 403 provided in the storage box 4. In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 3 extends the projection 361 of the joint portion 36 before printing starts, and retracts the projection 361 when the transport of the printed material is completed. Alternatively, if the storage box 4 is removed before the transport of the printed material by the image forming apparatus 3 is completed, the image forming apparatus 3 may be configured to stop printing and transporting the printed material and send an error notification to the server 5.

[0034] The short-range communication unit 38 is an interface for communicating with the storage box 4. The short-range communication unit is a short-range wireless communication device that uses, for example, Bluetooth® or NFC (Near Field Communication).

[0035] The storage box 4 will now be described. The storage box 4 is a box equipped with a locking mechanism 41 for storing printed materials transported from the image forming apparatus 3. The storage box 4 is detachable from the image forming apparatus 3 and is removed from the image forming apparatus 3 with the printed materials requested by the user stored inside, and delivered to the destination by a delivery person. When the storage box 4 is delivered, the user unlocks the storage box 4 using a key and retrieves the stored printed materials. The storage box 4, with the printed materials retrieved, is then collected on the spot, for example, by the delivery person. The key is information used to unlock the storage box 4. The key is, for example, a password. In this embodiment, the key will be described as a password.

[0036] The casing of storage box 4 is opaque, and the contents of the printed materials stored in storage box 4 cannot be seen from the outside. The storage box 4 casing is engraved with a storage box ID. The storage box ID is information that uniquely identifies storage box 4.

[0037] The storage box 4 includes, for example, an entrance 401, an opening 402, a locking mechanism 41, a processor 42, a memory 43, and a short-range communication unit 44.

[0038] The loading entrance 401 is provided to connect with the joint 36 of the image forming apparatus 3 and receives printed materials transported from the image forming apparatus 3 via the transport path 352 into the storage box 4. The loading entrance 401 is provided with, for example, a return of fiber bundles facing inward towards the storage box 4, so that printed materials transported from the image forming apparatus 3 cannot be removed from the loading entrance 401 to the outside of the storage box 4.

[0039] The opening 402 consists of an opening 4021 in the housing from which the printed materials stored in the storage box 4 can be removed, and a closing member 4022 that closes the opening 4021. The storage box 4 in this embodiment has, for example, a top plate 4024 that rotates around a pivot shaft 4023 as the closing member 4022. When the storage box 4 is connected to the image forming apparatus 3, it is desirable that the opening 402 is not opened. In the storage box 4 in this embodiment, for example, when connected to the image forming apparatus 3, one end of the top plate 4024 on the joint 36 side (the end of the top plate 4024 not on the pivot shaft 4023 side) is locked by the joint 36 so that the top plate 4024 does not rotate.

[0040] The locking mechanism 41 is a mechanism that restricts the opening of the opening 402. The locking mechanism 41 is, for example, an electronic lock that is physically locked so that the opening 402 cannot be opened when it receives a locking signal, and physically unlocked so that the opening 402 can be opened when it receives an unlocking signal.

[0041] The processor 42 is an arithmetic element (e.g., a CPU) that performs arithmetic processing. The processor 42 performs various processes based on data such as programs stored in the memory 43. The processor 42 functions as a control unit capable of performing various operations by executing the programs stored in the memory 43.

[0042] Memory 43 is a storage device that stores programs and data used by programs. Memory 43 also temporarily stores data being processed by the processor 42. Memory 43 is configured as both non-volatile and volatile memory. Memory 43 stores the storage box ID of the storage box 4.

[0043] The short-range communication unit 44 is an interface for communicating with the image forming apparatus 3 or the delivery person terminal 6. The storage box 4 transmits the storage box ID to the image forming apparatus 3 via the short-range communication unit 44. The storage box 4 receives a lock signal from the image forming apparatus 3 via the short-range communication unit 44. The storage box 4 receives an unlock signal from the delivery person terminal 6 via the short-range communication unit 44.

[0044] Alternatively, the storage box 4 may be equipped with a wireless tag, and the storage box ID may be stored in the wireless tag instead of the memory 43. The image forming apparatus 3 reads the storage box ID of the storage box 4, for example, using a wireless tag reader.

[0045] Alternatively, the image forming apparatus 3 may be provided with multiple joining sections 36, allowing multiple storage boxes 4 to be joined to a single image forming apparatus 3. With such a configuration, a single image forming apparatus 3 can handle multiple orders at once.

[0046] Server 5 will now be described. Server 5 is connected to a network and can communicate with the user terminal 2, the image forming apparatus 3, and the delivery person terminal 6 via the network. Server 5 includes a processor 51, memory 52, and a network interface 53.

[0047] The processor 51 is an arithmetic element (e.g., a CPU) that performs arithmetic processing. The processor 51 performs various processes based on data such as programs stored in the memory 52. ​​The processor 51 functions as a control unit capable of performing various operations by executing programs stored in the memory 52.

[0048] Memory 52 is a storage device that stores programs and data used by programs. Memory 52 also temporarily stores data being processed by the processor 51. Memory 52 is configured as both non-volatile and volatile memory.

[0049] The memory 52 includes a program storage unit 521, a user authentication unit 522, a billing processing unit 523, a user information database 524, an image forming apparatus information database 525, a delivery person terminal information database 526, a request information storage unit 527, and a temporary storage unit 528. In Figure 1, databases are abbreviated as DB. The program storage unit 521, user authentication unit 522, billing processing unit 523, user information database 524, image forming apparatus information database 525, delivery person terminal information database 526, and request information storage unit 527 are configured as non-volatile memory, while the temporary storage unit 528 is configured as volatile memory. The temporary storage unit 528 is used to temporarily store various data and information generated by the processor 51 during processing.

[0050] The program storage unit 521 stores a program that causes the processor 51 to operate as a printed material delivery system server.

[0051] The user authentication unit 522 receives information for users to log in, performs user authentication processing, and registers information for newly registered users. For example, the user authentication unit 522 receives a user ID and password, refers to user information stored in the user information database 524, performs user authentication processing, and registers user information for newly registered users in the user information database 524.

[0052] The billing processing unit 523 performs billing processing, such as billing calculations and billing information notifications, based on a predetermined billing program. The billing processing unit 523 performs billing using any method registered by the user. Possible billing methods include electronic money, deductions from the user's account, and prepaid methods where charges are made in advance. The billing method is not limited to these and may be implemented by any method.

[0053] The user information database 524 stores user information, which is information about users of the print delivery system 1. Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of user information for each user in the user information database 524. The record includes user ID, password, delivery address, and request address. Hereafter, redundant explanations will be omitted in the descriptions of the records in the user information database 524, image forming apparatus information database 525, delivery person terminal information database 526, and request information storage unit 527.

[0054] The User ID is identification information that uniquely identifies a user. The User ID is used in user authentication when a user logs in to use the print delivery system 1. The User ID is automatically generated by the processor 51 when a user registers as a new user of the print delivery system 1 and is added to the record in the user information database 524.

[0055] The login password is the password used for user authentication when a user logs in to use the print delivery system 1. The login password, as set by the user, is added to the user information database 524.

[0056] The delivery address is information indicating the location where the storage box 4 will be delivered. The delivery address may be, for example, the user's home address or work address. Multiple delivery addresses may be stored in the user information database 524. The delivery address may be set for each document to be printed. If multiple delivery addresses are stored in the user information database 524, one delivery address may be set as the primary delivery address. For documents for which no delivery address is set, the information set as the primary delivery address will be used as the delivery address. The delivery address information set by the user is added to the record in the user information database 524.

[0057] The recipient information indicates the location and equipment where the printed materials will be printed. Examples of recipient information include the image forming apparatus ID of the image forming apparatus 3 that corresponds to the print delivery system 1, the installation location of the image forming apparatus 3, and the address of the vendor that corresponds to the print delivery system 1. Multiple recipients may be stored in the user information database 524. A recipient may also be set for each document to be printed. If multiple recipients are stored in the user information database 524, one may be set as the primary recipient. For documents where no recipient is set, the information set as the primary recipient will be used. The recipient information set by the user is added to the record in the user information database 524.

[0058] The image forming apparatus information database 525 stores image forming apparatus information, which is information about the image forming apparatus 3 of the printed material delivery system 1. Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the image forming apparatus information for each image forming apparatus in the image forming apparatus information database 525. Each record includes the image forming apparatus ID, installation location, and delivery person terminal ID.

[0059] The image forming apparatus ID is identification information that uniquely identifies the image forming apparatus 3. The image forming apparatus ID is automatically generated by the processor 51 when, for example, the administrator of the image forming apparatus 3 registers a suitable image forming apparatus 3 as the image forming apparatus 3 of the printed material delivery system 1, and is added to the record in the image forming apparatus information database 525.

[0060] The installation location is information indicating the location where the image forming apparatus 3 is installed. This location may include the address of the vendor corresponding to the print delivery system 1. For example, information set by the administrator of the image forming apparatus 3 is added to the record in the image forming apparatus information database 525.

[0061] The delivery person terminal ID is identification information that uniquely identifies the delivery person terminal 6. In the image forming apparatus information database 525, multiple delivery person terminal IDs may be associated with a single image forming apparatus ID. For example, the information set by the administrator of the image forming apparatus 3 is added to the record in the image forming apparatus information database 525.

[0062] The delivery person terminal information database 526 stores delivery person terminal information, which is information about the delivery person terminal 6 of the printed material delivery system 1. Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of delivery person terminal information for each delivery person terminal in the delivery person terminal information database 526. The record includes the delivery person terminal ID, request number, and delivery in progress flag.

[0063] The delivery person terminal ID is automatically generated by the processor 51 when, for example, the administrator of the image forming apparatus 3 registers a suitable terminal as the delivery person terminal 6 of the printed material delivery system 1, and is added to the record in the delivery person terminal information database 526.

[0064] The request number is identification information used to uniquely identify the delivery request for storage box 4. A logged-in user may be able to check the delivery status of storage box 4 by searching for the request number. For example, when a delivery request is sent from server 5 to delivery terminal 6, the request number is added to a record in the delivery terminal information database 526 by referring to the request information storage unit 527.

[0065] The "In Delivery" flag is set when a delivery person begins delivery of storage box 4. When the "In Delivery" flag is set, the delivery person terminal 6 with the corresponding delivery person terminal ID may be configured to have a lower priority for receiving delivery requests from server 5. The "In Delivery" flag is added to a record in the delivery person terminal information database 526 by the delivery person when they begin delivery of storage box 4.

[0066] The request information storage unit 527 stores request information, which is information about requests made by the print delivery system 1. Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of request information for each request in the request information storage unit 527. The record includes request number, user ID, document information, delivery address, requester, storage box ID, one-time password, and delivery in progress flag.

[0067] The request number is automatically generated by the processor 51, for example, when the billing process is completed, and added to the record in the request information storage unit 527.

[0068] The user ID is added to the record in the request information storage unit 527 by the processor 51, for example, when the billing process is completed, by referring to the user information database 524.

[0069] Document information is information about an image formed on a printing medium by the image forming apparatus 3. Document information includes image data, size, number of copies, print side, color settings, etc., of the document to be printed. Document information may include multiple data files. Document information is transmitted to the server 5 by the user. For example, when billing is completed, the document information is added to a record in the request information storage unit 527 by the processor 51.

[0070] The delivery address is added to the record in the request information storage unit 527 based on user input when the billing process is completed, for example. Alternatively, when the billing process is completed, the processor 51 refers to the user information database 524 and adds the information to the record in the request information storage unit 527.

[0071] For example, when the billing process is completed, information based on the user's input is added to the record in the request information storage unit 527. Alternatively, when the billing process is completed, the processor 51 refers to the user information database 524 and adds the information to the record in the request information storage unit 527.

[0072] The storage box ID is added to the record in the request information storage unit 527 by the processor 51 when the server 5 receives a signal from the image forming apparatus 3 granting permission to print, which includes the storage box ID.

[0073] A one-time password is a unique password generated by the processor 51. The one-time password is automatically generated by the processor 51 when registering the document information and delivery address sent by the user as a record in the request information storage unit 527, and is added to the record in the request information storage unit 527.

[0074] The "in transit" flag is added to the record in the request information storage unit 527 by the processor 51 when information is added to the "in transit" flag record in the delivery person terminal information database 526.

[0075] The network interface 53 is an interface for communicating with the user terminal 2, the image forming apparatus 3, and the delivery person terminal 6 via the network.

[0076] The delivery person terminal 6 will now be described. The delivery person terminal 6 is a terminal operated by the delivery person who delivers the storage box 4. The delivery person terminal 6 is a portable device such as a smartphone or tablet. In this embodiment, the delivery person terminal 6 will be described as a smartphone.

[0077] The delivery terminal 6 includes, for example, a processor 61, memory 62, user interface 63, short-range communication unit 64, and network interface 65. The processor 61, memory 62, user interface 63, short-range communication unit 64, and network interface 65 are housed in a casing (not shown).

[0078] The processor 61 is an arithmetic element (e.g., a CPU) that performs arithmetic processing. The processor 61 performs various processes based on data such as programs stored in the memory 62. The processor 61 functions as a control unit capable of performing various operations by executing programs stored in the memory 62.

[0079] Memory 62 is a storage device that stores programs and data used by those programs. Memory 62 also temporarily stores data being processed by the processor 61. Memory 62 is configured as both non-volatile and volatile memory.

[0080] The user interface 63 includes a display and an operation interface (not shown). The display shows a screen in response to a video signal input from the processor 61. For example, the display shows a screen for user information input during user authentication in the print delivery system 1. The operation interface supplies operation signals to the processor 61 in response to the operation of an operation component. The operation component is, for example, a touch sensor, microphone, numeric keypad, various function keys, or keyboard. The touch sensor is, for example, a resistive touch sensor or a capacitive touch sensor. The touch sensor acquires information indicating a specified position within a certain area. The touch sensor is configured as a touch panel integrated with the display and inputs a signal indicating the touched position on the screen displayed on the display to the system controller.

[0081] The short-range communication unit 64 is an interface for communicating with the storage box 4.

[0082] The network interface 65 is an interface for communicating with the server 5 over the network.

[0083] Figures 8 and 9 show an overview of the print delivery flow in print delivery system 1.

[0084] The user first requests user authentication from server 5 (S101). The user authentication request includes the user ID and login password. Server 5 authenticates the user based on the provided user ID and login password (S102) and sends a signal to user terminal 2 indicating that the user has been authenticated (S103).

[0085] The user sends document information of the document to be printed to the server 5 (S104). Furthermore, the user may set information regarding the delivery address and the recipient of the print request. The delivery address and recipient may be selected from information based on the user information database 524, or they may be entered manually.

[0086] Server 5 checks the document information and, if there are no problems, sends a billing request to the user (S105). The user sends the information necessary for billing based on the billing request (S106). Server 5 processes the billing based on the user's input (S107).

[0087] Once the billing process is complete, server 5 generates a request number and a one-time password, and adds the request number, user ID, document information, delivery address, request destination, and one-time password to the request information storage unit 527. If the delivery address and request destination were not set in S104, server 5 refers to the user information database 524 and adds the basic delivery address and basic request destination to the request information storage unit 527 as the delivery address and request destination. Then, along with a signal indicating that the billing process is complete, at least the one-time password is sent to the user terminal 2 (S108). Note that the information stored in the request information storage unit 527 regarding this request and sent to the user terminal 2 is not limited to the one-time password.

[0088] Subsequently, Server 5 refers to the image forming apparatus information database 525 and sends a print command to one of the image forming apparatuses 3 whose installation location matches the requesting party's image forming apparatus ID (S109). Based on the detection by the joint sensor 37, Image forming apparatus 3 checks whether the storage box 4 is joined to the joint 36 (S110). If the storage box 4 is joined, it obtains the storage box ID from the storage box 4 via the short-range communication unit 38 (S111). Once Image forming apparatus 3 obtains the storage box ID, it sends the storage box ID to Server 5 along with a signal granting permission to print (S112).

[0089] If the image forming apparatus 3 is in a state where it cannot print, or if the storage box 4 is not joined, the image forming apparatus 3 sends a signal to the server 5 indicating that it refuses to print. When the server 5 receives a signal refusing to print, it sends a print command to another image forming apparatus 3 whose installation location matches that of the requesting party. Alternatively, the server 5 may request the image forming apparatus 3 to hold up its response to the print command until it is in a state where it can print and the storage box 4 is joined.

[0090] When Server 5 receives the storage box ID from the image forming apparatus 3, it adds the storage box ID to the request information storage unit 527 (S113). Next, Server 5 transmits document information to the image forming apparatus 3 (S114). When the image forming apparatus 3 receives the document information, it performs a printing process to form an image on the printing medium based on the document information (S115). At this time, the printing medium is transported by the transport unit 351 of the image forming apparatus 3 and stored in the storage box 4 which is connected to the image forming apparatus 3. When the printing process is completed, the image forming apparatus 3 transmits a locking signal including the storage box ID to the storage box 4 via the short-range communication unit 38 (S116). When the storage box 4 receives the locking signal, it compares the storage box ID included in the locking signal with the storage box ID stored in the memory 43, and if the storage box IDs match, it performs a locking process to lock the opening 402 with the locking mechanism 41 (S117). Once the storage box 4 is locked, it transmits a signal to the image forming apparatus 3 via the short-range communication unit 38 indicating that it has been locked (S118). When the image forming apparatus 3 receives the locking completion signal from the storage box 4, it transmits a signal to the server 5 indicating that printing has been completed (S119).

[0091] When server 5 receives a print completion signal from image forming apparatus 3, it refers to the image forming apparatus information database 525 and transmits a delivery request to one of the delivery personnel terminals 6 that has a delivery personnel terminal ID registered in association with the image forming apparatus ID of the image forming apparatus 3, including at least the storage box ID stored in the request information storage unit 527 and the delivery destination (S120). The delivery request may include the request number, the image forming apparatus ID of the printed image forming apparatus 3, and the installation location.

[0092] The delivery person identifies the corresponding storage box 4 by comparing the storage box ID included in the delivery request sent to the delivery person terminal 6 with the storage box ID engraved on the casing of the storage box 4. The delivery person delivers the corresponding storage box 4 to the delivery address specified in the delivery request.

[0093] The user enters their user ID and one-time password into the delivery terminal 6 of the delivery person who delivered the storage box 4 (S121). The delivery terminal 6 requests user authentication from the server 5, including the entered storage box ID and one-time password (S123). The server 5 refers to the request information storage unit 527, authenticates the user based on the supplied user ID and one-time password (S123), and sends a signal to the delivery terminal 6 indicating that the user has been authenticated (S124). The signal indicating completion of user authentication includes the storage box ID.

[0094] In this embodiment, user authentication was performed using a user ID and a one-time password, but the system is not limited to this combination. For example, combinations such as a storage box ID and a one-time password, or a request number and a one-time password are possible. Alternatively, the delivery person may enter a user ID and login password into the delivery person terminal 6 and have it refer to the user information database 524 for user authentication. Furthermore, if user authentication is possible, only one key is required. However, for security reasons, it is desirable that the key used for user authentication in S121 to S124 includes at least one piece of information that is not disclosed to the delivery person.

[0095] When the delivery terminal 6 receives a signal from the server 5 indicating that user authentication is complete, it sends an unlocking signal including the storage box ID to the storage box 4 via the short-range communication unit 64 (S125). When the storage box 4 receives the unlocking signal, it compares the storage box ID included in the unlocking signal with the storage box ID stored in the memory 43, and if the storage box IDs match, it performs an unlocking process in which the locking mechanism 41 unlocks the opening 402 (S126). Once the unlocking is complete, the storage box 4 sends a signal to the delivery terminal 6 via the short-range communication unit 44 indicating that the unlocking is complete (S127).

[0096] When the delivery terminal 6 receives an unlocking completion signal from the storage box 4, it sends a signal to the server 5 indicating that the delivery of the storage box 4 is complete (S128). The delivery completion signal includes the storage box ID. When the server 5 receives the delivery completion signal, it deletes the storage box ID and the information associated with the storage box ID included in the delivery completion signal from the request information storage unit 527 (S129).

[0097] As described above, the server 5 of the print delivery system 1 obtains user information from the user terminal 2, obtains document information from the user terminal 2, sends a password to the user terminal 2, obtains storage box information related to the storage box 4 from the image forming apparatus 3, requests printing based on the document information from the image forming apparatus 3, and after receiving a printing completion signal from the image forming apparatus 3, transmits delivery destination information and storage box information based on the user information to the delivery person terminal 6. The storage box 4 stores the printed materials printed by the image forming apparatus 3 and has a locking mechanism 41 that locks the opening 402, and is detachable from the image forming apparatus 3. This makes it possible to provide a server 5 that realizes a print delivery system 1 that satisfies the confidentiality of printed materials by delivering a storage box 4 with a locking mechanism 41 that stores the printed materials desired by the user to the user.

[0098] Furthermore, in this embodiment, there is a possibility that the first user wants to deliver printed materials to the second user. In this case, the first user can set the delivery address to an address where the second user can receive the package and notify the second user of a one-time password via email or other means. The second user can then use the notified one-time password to unlock the delivered storage box 4.

[0099] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the user terminal 2 may be equipped with a short-range communication unit for communicating with the storage box 4. By equipping the user terminal 2 with a short-range communication unit, even if the user is not at the delivery destination due to being out, the delivery person can deliver the storage box 4 as a contactless delivery, and the user can unlock the delivered storage box 4 using a password.

[0100] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Embodiments of the present invention can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. Embodiments of the present invention are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0101] Printed material delivery system...1 User terminal...2 Processors: 21, 31, 42, 51, 61 Memory: 22, 32, 43, 52, 62 User Interface...23, 33, 63 Network interfaces: 24, 34, 53, 65 Image forming apparatus...3 Image forming section...35 Transport section...351 Transport route...352 Joint...36 Protrusion...361 Joint sensor...37 Near field communication department...38, 44, 64 Storage box...4 Loading entrance...401 Opening port...402 Opening...4021 Blocking component...4022 Rotary shaft...4023 Tabletop...4024 Hole...403 Locking mechanism...41 Server...5 Program storage unit...521 User authentication section...522 Billing Processing Unit...523 User information database...524 Image forming apparatus information database...525 Delivery driver terminal information database... 526 Request information storage unit...527 Temporary storage section...528 Delivery driver terminal...6

Claims

1. A communication interface for communicating with the first terminal, the second terminal, and the image forming apparatus, Obtain user information from the first terminal mentioned above. Obtain document information from the first terminal mentioned above. Information about a storage box, which stores printed materials printed by the image forming apparatus and has a locking mechanism for locking the opening, and which is detachable from the image forming apparatus, is obtained from the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus is requested to print based on the document information, After receiving a print completion signal from the image forming apparatus, the delivery address information and storage box information based on the user information are transmitted to the second terminal. Processor and A print delivery system server equipped with the following features.

2. The aforementioned processor, The system receives a key from the second terminal and performs an authentication process to authenticate the user based on the key received from the second terminal. When the user is authenticated by the authentication process, a signal is sent to the second terminal to unlock the locking mechanism of the storage box. A printed material delivery system server according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned key is a password. The aforementioned processor, The password is sent to the first terminal. The system receives the password from the second terminal and performs an authentication process to authenticate the user based on the password received from the second terminal. When the user is authenticated by the authentication process, a signal is sent to the second terminal to unlock the locking mechanism of the storage box. The printed material delivery system server according to claim 2.

4. A print distribution system comprising a server, a storage box, and an image forming apparatus that communicates with the server and the storage box, The aforementioned server, A first communication interface that communicates with the first terminal, the second terminal, and the image forming apparatus, Obtain user information from the first terminal mentioned above. Obtain document information from the first terminal mentioned above. The image forming apparatus acquires storage box information, which is information related to the storage box. The image forming apparatus is requested to print based on the document information, After receiving a print completion signal from the image forming apparatus, the delivery address information and storage box information based on the user information are transmitted to the second terminal. The first processor, Equipped with, The image forming apparatus is A second communication interface that communicates with the server and the storage box, The storage box requests the storage box information, and the acquired storage box information is transmitted to the server. Print in response to a print request from the server based on the document information. When the printing is complete, a signal indicating the completion of printing is sent to the server. The second processor, Equipped with, The aforementioned storage box is The printed material produced by the image forming apparatus is stored in the image forming apparatus, and is detachable from the image forming apparatus. A locking mechanism to secure the opening, A third communication interface for communicating with the aforementioned image forming apparatus, A memory for storing the storage box information, In response to a request for storage box information from the image forming apparatus, the storage box information stored in the memory is transmitted to the image forming apparatus. The third processor, A print distribution system equipped with the following features.

5. The first step is to obtain user information from the terminal, The steps include obtaining document information from the first terminal, A step of acquiring storage box information relating to a storage box that stores printed materials printed by an image forming apparatus, has a locking mechanism for locking the opening, and is detachable from the image forming apparatus, The steps include: requesting the image forming apparatus to print based on the document information; After receiving a print completion signal from the image forming apparatus, the process involves transmitting delivery address information and storage box information based on the user information to a second terminal. A method for controlling a print delivery system server that executes the following sequentially.

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