Information processing systems and programs

Abstract

This reduces the burden on the user compared to switching to a printer capable of performing prints while maintaining security. [Solution] The information processing system includes a processor, which receives a print instruction for a print job (S100-S105), and based on the print instruction for the received print job, it retrieves the print job from a first device where the print job is registered, while maintaining a predetermined first security level (S108), and controls the output of the retrieved print job to a second device that processes the print job at a second security level lower than the first security level (S114).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing system and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an information processing apparatus that switches the holding destination of a print job according to whether a print instruction is given by remote operation. This information processing apparatus includes determination means for determining whether a print instruction based on a print job is made by remote operation. Further, the information processing apparatus includes determination means for determining, among the apparatuses belonging to the same local network as the information processing apparatus, one apparatus according to the result of determination by the determination means as the storage destination of the print job.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Incidentally, when a job is stored in an external storage device and then retrieved from that device to print on a designated printer, it is required to maintain the security of the job while printing. To print a job while maintaining security in this way, it is sufficient to print using a printer in a secure environment where security can be maintained. However, a user issuing a print command may request that the job be printed at one of several locations where they may be present. In this case, if the security for printing the job on the printer requested by the user is insufficient, it becomes difficult to retrieve the job from the external storage device and execute the print job. To resolve this, the target printer could be switched to a printer that can print while maintaining security, retrieve the job from the external storage device, and execute the print job, but this increases the burden on the user.

[0005] This disclosure aims to provide an information processing system and information processing program that can reduce the burden on the user compared to switching to a printing device capable of performing printing while maintaining security. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The first aspect is, Equipped with a processor, The aforementioned processor, Accepting print instructions for a print job, Based on the print instructions for the received print job, the print job is retrieved from the first device where the print job is registered, while maintaining a predetermined first security level. The acquired print job is output to a second device that processes the print job at a second security level lower than the first security level, and control is performed accordingly. It is an information processing system.

[0007] The second aspect is an information processing system relating to the first aspect, The print job is associated with user information indicating the user who instructed the registration of the print job. The aforementioned processor, Obtain user information indicating the user who issued the print command for the aforementioned print job. The system performs control to acquire a print job that matches the user information acquired and the user information assigned to the print job.

[0008] The third aspect is an information processing system relating to the first aspect, The aforementioned processor, A candidate device capable of outputting the aforementioned print job is detected. The detected candidate device is determined to be the second device. Control is performed to convert the aforementioned print job into a print job corresponding to the type of candidate device, which is the second device, that has been determined.

[0009] The fourth aspect is an information processing system relating to the third aspect, The aforementioned processor, Control is performed to repeatedly execute the detection process of the candidate device for a predetermined period of time.

[0010] The fifth aspect is an information processing system relating to the third aspect, The aforementioned processor, If multiple candidate devices are detected, In accordance with a predetermined priority order, one of the devices is designated as the second device.

[0011] The sixth aspect is an information processing system relating to the first aspect, The aforementioned processor, If information related to the print job is generated when performing the aforementioned acquisition control and output control, the system performs control to output the print job to the second device, and then performs control to erase the information related to the print job.

[0012] The seventh aspect is an information processing system relating to the first aspect, The aforementioned processor, Control is performed so as to execute registration of a print job at a predetermined first position. Control is performed so as to receive a print instruction for the print job at a second position different from the first position.

[0013] A eighth aspect is the information processing system according to the seventh aspect, where the processor controls to remotely connect from the second position different from the first position to a device installed at the first position and execute registration of a print job while maintaining a security level equal to or higher than a predetermined first security level. Control is performed so as to receive a print instruction for the print job at the second position.

[0014] A ninth aspect is the information processing system according to the first aspect, where the processor outputs information regarding the print instruction of the acquired print job to a predetermined third device so as to hold it, outputs the acquired print job to a predetermined fourth device while maintaining a third security level equal to or higher than a first security level, controls to output to a fifth device, which is preset to be able to output the print job from the fourth device, the print job in the fourth device for print processing at the fifth device based on the information regarding the print instruction of the print job held by the third device.

[0015] A tenth aspect is a program for causing a processor to output a print job, where the program causes the processor to receive a print instruction for a print job, to acquire, based on the received print instruction for the print job, the print job from a first device in which the print job is stored while maintaining a predetermined first security level. Controlling to output the obtained print job to a second device that performs print processing at a second security level lower than the first security level. A program that causes this to be processed.

Advantages of the Invention

[0016] According to the first aspect and the tenth aspect, the burden on the user can be reduced as compared with switching to a printing device capable of executing printing while maintaining security. It has the effect of... According to the second aspect, it has the effect of maintaining confidentiality as compared with a configuration that acquires a print job without considering the conformity of user information. According to the third aspect, it has the effect of outputting information according to the type of the second device as compared with a configuration that directly outputs the acquired print job to the second device. According to the fourth aspect, it has the effect of reducing the processing load on the processor as compared with a configuration that continuously executes the detection process of candidate devices. According to the fifth aspect, it has the effect of smoothly advancing the processing of the processor as compared with a configuration that interrupts the process to determine the second device. According to the sixth aspect, it has the effect of maintaining the confidentiality of information related to the print job as compared with a configuration that holds information generated by the processing of the processor. According to the seventh aspect, it has the effect of increasing the degree of freedom regarding the position dependence of the processing related to the print job as compared with a configuration that executes the control of the print instruction of the print job and the output of the print job at the same position. According to the eighth aspect, it has the effect of increasing the degree of freedom regarding the position dependence of the processing related to the print job as compared with a configuration that executes the control of the print instruction of the print job and the output of the print job at the same position. According to the ninth aspect, compared to a configuration in which the print instructions for a print job and the output control of a print job are performed at the same location, it is possible to increase the degree of freedom regarding the position dependency of processing related to a print job. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0017] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of a schematic configuration of the information processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of the schematic electrical configuration of a computer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the schematic electrical configuration of an image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This flowchart shows an example of the processing flow by a computer agent program according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of the schematic configuration of the information processing system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 6] This flowchart shows an example of the processing flow by a computer agent program according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of a schematic configuration of an information processing system according to the third embodiment. [Figure 8] This flowchart shows an example of the processing flow by a computer agent program according to the third embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0018] Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment for carrying out the technology of this disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Components and processes that perform the same operation, action, or function are given the same reference numerals throughout the drawings, and redundant explanations may be omitted as appropriate. Each drawing is only a schematic representation to the extent that the technology of this disclosure can be fully understood. Therefore, the technology of this disclosure is not limited to the illustrated examples. Furthermore, in this embodiment, explanations of configurations not directly related to the present invention or well-known configurations may be omitted.

[0019] [First Embodiment] Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment for implementing the technology of this disclosure.

[0020] The information processing system 1 according to the first embodiment includes a print management server 2 that is built on the cloud network CLD and provides print management services. The print management server 2 is connected to network N. Network N can include public communication lines such as the Internet and telephone networks, LANs (Local Area Networks), and WANs (Wide Area Networks). Network N can also include public networks such as at least one of wired and wireless communication lines.

[0021] The print management server 2 is built on the cloud network CLD and functions as a device that provides various print management services to devices connected to network N. For example, the print management server 2 is built on network N using cloud computing technology and can be used in equivalent terms to virtual hardware and software resources similar to those of a device installed in the actual environment. Therefore, the print management server 2 can provide various services from the cloud network CLD. In this embodiment, the print management server 2 is described as a virtual device built on the cloud network CLD, but it is of course possible to install the print management server 2 in the actual environment and connect it to network N.

[0022] Furthermore, the information processing system 1 includes a portable computer (hereinafter referred to as PC) 3 configured to connect to network N via the first base network NC, and an image forming apparatus 4 including a printer, etc. The first base is a predetermined base of a company or organization, and a security level is predetermined for the first base. The first base network NC is a network configured to allow the exchange of data and commands, etc., within a base set by a company, etc., while maintaining a predetermined security level.

[0023] Furthermore, the information processing system 1 includes an image forming apparatus 5 configured to connect to a second network, which is different from the first network NC. The second network is a predetermined location, such as a home or a specific place, with a predetermined security level set in advance. The second network NH is a network configured to allow the exchange of data and commands, etc., within a predetermined location, such as a home, while maintaining a predetermined security level.

[0024] Furthermore, in the information processing system 1, the PC 3, which can connect to the first base network NC, is carried by the user and is configured to be able to connect to the second base network NH.

[0025] The aforementioned first-site network NC can exchange commands and data while maintaining a predetermined security level. Between internal devices at the first site connected to the first-site network NC, information is exchanged at a predetermined security level that suppresses information leakage from the first site to the outside. Furthermore, the security level when communicating with outside the first site is the same as the security level between internal devices at the first site, and information is exchanged at a security level set up with authentication information, etc., that allows information to be exchanged. In Figure 1, the security level when communicating with outside the first site is shown as security level LH. For example, the image forming apparatus 4, as an in-house device, has a predetermined security level and is configured to exchange information while maintaining security level LH, and can acquire print jobs from the print management server 2.

[0026] Similarly, the second-site network NH described above can also exchange commands and data while maintaining a predetermined security level. Between internal devices at the second site connected to the second-site network NH, information is exchanged at a predetermined security level that suppresses information leakage from the second site to the outside. Since the second site is a different site from the first site, the security level for communication with the outside of the second site is set to security level LL, which is different from the security level LH ​​described above. At security level LL, it is difficult to obtain print jobs from the print management server 2 without possessing authentication information for security level LH. In other words, for example, the image forming apparatus 5, as a device installed at home, is assigned a security level LL, which is lower than security level LH, making it difficult for the image forming apparatus 5 to connect to the print management server 2. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 5 cannot directly obtain print jobs from the print management server 2.

[0027] The print management server 2 is an example of the first apparatus of this disclosure. The image forming apparatus 5 is an example of the second apparatus of this disclosure. The first site is an example of the first location of this disclosure. The second site is an example of the second location of this disclosure.

[0028] Next, the general electrical configuration of each device in the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment will be described. Note that the cloud network CLD and print management server 2 have well-known configurations, so their explanation will be omitted. Also, as mentioned above, print management server 2 is configured to be able to send and receive data and commands, etc., via at least network N.

[0029] Figure 2 shows an example of the schematic electrical configuration of PC3 according to this embodiment.

[0030] Specifically, as shown in Figure 2, PC3 includes a computer main unit 31. The computer main unit 31 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 42, RAM (Random Access Memory) 33, ROM (Read-Only Memory) 34, storage unit 35, and input / output ports (I / O) 36. The CPU 32, RAM 33, ROM 34, storage unit 35, and I / O 36 are connected to each other via a bus.

[0031] Furthermore, I / O36 is connected to various functional units, including a data unit 35D that enables communication with external devices, an operation input unit 38 that enables user operation input, and a display unit 39 that enables image display. These functional units are able to communicate with the CPU 32 via I / O36.

[0032] The computer main unit 31 may be configured as a sub-control unit that controls some of the operations of the PC3, or as part of the main control unit that controls the overall operation of the PC3.

[0033] As the storage unit 35, for example, an auxiliary storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), or flash memory may be used. The agent program 35P, as the program of this disclosure, is stored in the storage unit 35. The CPU 32 reads the agent program 35P from the storage unit 35, loads it into the RAM 33, and executes processing. The specific processing of PC3 will be described later.

[0034] The agent program 35P may be stored in ROM 34. Alternatively, the agent program 35P may be pre-installed on PC 3, for example. The agent program 35P may be implemented by storing it on a non-volatile storage medium, or by appropriately installing program information distributed via network N onto PC 3. Examples of non-volatile storage media include CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), magneto-optical disk, HDD, DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc Read Only Memory), flash memory, and memory cards.

[0035] The memory unit 35 also stores data 35D, which includes various types of information usable by the PC3. The information stored in data 35D is not limited to being pre-stored in the memory unit 35. For example, it may be stored in an external device (not shown) and retrieved from that external device via a communication line.

[0036] Data 35D is configured to temporarily store configuration data about users who can use the information processing that the user utilizes using PC3.

[0037] For example, authentication information for a user to access the services of the print management server 2 is pre-registered as data 35D on PC3. The registered authentication information is user-specific and includes, for example, a user ID and password as user information, and is used during user authentication when using the services of the print management server 2. Therefore, by being authenticated with the authenticated authentication information, the user can use the services of the print management server 2 using PC3. It is assumed that, in order for a user to access the services of the print management server 2, the authentication information registered in data 35D is pre-registered on the print management server 2 as authentication information for authenticating the exchange of data and commands by PC3.

[0038] Furthermore, as data 35D for PC3, information indicating the physical location where PC3 is operating, such as GPS, and information indicating the logical location of PC3 itself, such as IP address, can be stored in real time. The information indicating the physical location where PC3 is operating may be the location defined as a relay point by the nearest network device such as a gateway when PC3 is communicating.

[0039] The communication unit 37 is connected to the network NC and NH and is configured to enable communication between the PC3 and other internal and external devices. The operation input unit 38 can be fitted with devices for operation input such as a keyboard or mouse. The display unit 39 can be, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display. The display unit 39 may be integrated with the operation input unit 38, such as a touch panel.

[0040] Figure 3 shows an example of the schematic electrical configuration of the image forming apparatus 4 at the first site according to the embodiment.

[0041] The image forming apparatus 4 is a multifunction device having several functions from among multiple functions such as copying, printing, image reading, and image transmission, and in this embodiment, it has at least a printing function. When the image forming apparatus 4 receives a print job related to printing from an external device such as a PC 3 and a print management server 2, it executes printing processing based on the print job.

[0042] The image forming apparatus 4 includes a computer unit 41. The computer unit 41 includes a CPU 42, RAM 43, ROM 44, storage unit 45, and I / O 46. The CPU 42, RAM 43, ROM 44, storage unit 45, and I / O 46 are connected to each other via a bus.

[0043] I / O46 is connected to various functional units, including a communication unit 47 that enables communication with external devices, and an input / display unit 48 that enables user operation input and information display. These functional units can communicate with the CPU 42 via I / O46. The input / display unit 48 can be a liquid crystal display (LCD) configured to input and output information such as a touch panel.

[0044] Furthermore, I / O46 is connected to a processing unit 40 that physically executes various functions related to image formation, such as the printing function described above. The processing unit 40 performs the actual image formation process.

[0045] The memory unit 45 stores an image processing program 45P for operating the image forming apparatus 4. The CPU 42 reads the image processing program 45P from the memory unit 45, loads it into the RAM 43, and executes the image forming process. As a result, the image forming apparatus 4, having executed the image processing program 45P, becomes capable of performing various image forming processes.

[0046] The storage unit 45 also stores data 45D, which contains various information usable by the image forming apparatus 4. Data 45D registers data related to image processing performed by the image forming apparatus 4. Examples of such data include the user authentication information mentioned above, and data used for file transfer functions exchanged over the network. The data used for file transfer functions includes IP addresses and URLs (Uniform Resource Locator) indicating the location of devices such as the file server and print management server 2, as well as authentication information used for authenticating these devices.

[0047] Therefore, the image forming apparatus 4 can receive user instructions, log in to services provided by devices such as the file server and print management server 2, and execute predetermined processes.

[0048] The communication unit 47 is connected to the first base network NC and is configured to enable communication between the image forming apparatus 4 and internal devices within the first base and external devices via the network N. The input display unit 48 receives various instructions from the user of the image forming apparatus 4 and displays various information such as the results of processing performed in accordance with the instructions received from the user, and notifications regarding the processing.

[0049] As described above, the image forming apparatus 4 installed at the first site can acquire print jobs from the print management server 2 while maintaining the security level (security level LH ​​in Figure 1). For example, the image forming apparatus 4 is pre-configured with the IP address and URL indicating the location of the print management server 2, as well as authentication information used for authentication by the print management server 2. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 4 can acquire print jobs instructed by the user from the print management server 2 and print them while maintaining the security level LH.

[0050] Next, the image forming apparatus 5 installed at the second site according to the embodiment will be described. Since the image forming apparatus 5 has substantially the same electrical configuration as the image forming apparatus 4 described above, a detailed explanation will be omitted, and the differences will be described below.

[0051] The image forming apparatus 5 can be a printer equipped with at least a printing function. Alternatively, the multifunction device described above may also be used.

[0052] The image forming apparatus 5 is connected to the second-site network NH, which is located at a second location such as the user's home. Therefore, although the image forming apparatus 5 stores data related to image processing performed by the image forming apparatus 5, it does not store user authentication information, etc., necessary to use the print management server 2 mentioned above. Consequently, even if the image forming apparatus 5 receives a print command from the user, it is unable to log in to the service provided by the print management server 2 and execute the prescribed processing.

[0053] Incidentally, users may wish to execute the same print jobs at a second location, such as their home, in addition to executing them at their first location, such as their company. However, when executing print jobs at the first location, a set of security measures is in place, ensuring security for the print jobs being sent and received within that location. On the other hand, at a second location, such as a home, the necessary security measures may not be in place, and security for the print jobs may not be guaranteed. As a result, there is a risk that information regarding the sending and receiving of print jobs may be leaked.

[0054] Therefore, the information processing system according to this embodiment includes a processor, which receives print instructions for print jobs. Based on the print instructions for the received print jobs, the processor retrieves the print jobs from the print management server 2 where the print jobs are registered, while maintaining a predetermined first security level. The processor then controls the output of the print jobs to the image forming apparatus 5 at a second location, which processes the print jobs at a second security level lower than the first security level. As a result, the information processing system according to this embodiment can reduce the burden on the user compared to switching to a printing apparatus capable of performing printing while maintaining security.

[0055] Next, the operation of the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment will be explained, focusing on the processes executed by the PC3.

[0056] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow by the agent program 35P stored in PC3. In this embodiment of the information processing system 1, we will describe the case where the user moves from a first location such as a company to a second location such as their home, and PC3 connects to the second location network NH.

[0057] Specifically, in PC3, the CPU32 receives a command from the user to start the agent program 35P and executes the following steps.

[0058] First, in step S100 of Figure 4, user authentication is performed, and the login process is executed. In this user authentication process, the user ID and password that have been pre-registered on PC3 are used for authentication.

[0059] Furthermore, if the authentication process fails a predetermined number of times in step S100, the processing routine may be terminated, or a predetermined process associated with the authentication failure may be executed before the processing routine is terminated.

[0060] Next, if the login process to PC3 is successful, step S102 executes the process of registering the print job to be printed with the print management server 2. Specifically, CPU32 requests the print management server 2 to perform the login process to the print management server 2 by a registered user and to register the print job to be printed with the print management server 2. Specifically, it sends the print job to be printed from PC3 and requests registration with the print management server 2.

[0061] A print job includes user authentication information, including user ID and password, the document data to be printed, and print parameters for the document data. The print parameters include information indicating the function of the image forming apparatus, i.e., control commands that control the image forming apparatus, such as whether stapling is possible, whether multi-color printing such as color printing is possible, and whether double-sided printing is possible. The print parameters also include print data information for the document data. The print data information can include, for example, information indicating the correspondence between multi-color pixel values ​​and single-color gradation values. The print data information makes it possible to convert pixel values ​​set in multi-color to single-color pixel values ​​(e.g., gradation values). Therefore, by using the print data information, it becomes possible to perform monochrome printing that corresponds to color printing on an image forming apparatus capable of single-color printing, instead of color printing the document data. Printing parameters are an example of information depending on the type of apparatus of the second device of this disclosure.

[0062] The print management server 2 receives a request from PC3, performs authentication processing, and if it matches the registered user ID and password, registers the print job in a storage unit (not shown) as an authenticated user. Once the print job registration is complete, the print management server 2 sends information to PC3, the device that requested the print job registration, indicating that the registration is complete, and notifies it of the completion of registration.

[0063] When the CPU 32 of PC3 receives a registration completion notification from the print management server 2, it searches for an image forming machine for a predetermined time. This search for an image forming machine corresponds to detecting a candidate machine capable of outputting a print job. Specifically, in step S104, the CPU 32 searches for an image forming machine connected to the second location network NH of the location where PC3 is installed, in this case the second location (e.g., home). In this search, the CPU 32 searches for an image forming machine at the second location using network information and printer information. That is, the CPU 32 detects network information indicating the network to which PC3 is connected, and printer information set for the image forming machine. Here, network information indicating that it is connected to the second location network NH and printer information indicating that it is installed at the second location (e.g., home) are detected, and the target image forming machine is obtained as a search result. In this case, image forming machine 5 is found.

[0064] The printer information includes information indicating whether or not authentication information exists for the image forming apparatus, and information indicating that the image forming apparatus is one of the following: a personal printer, a corporate printer, or a shared printer. Furthermore, network information and printer information are pre-registered in PC3 and stored in data 35D.

[0065] In step S105, the CPU 32 determines whether or not an image forming apparatus is present as a result of the search.

[0066] If the image forming apparatus is not found and the determination is made in step S105, the CPU 32 determines in step S106 whether the termination conditions are met. The termination conditions can be conditions indicating that a predetermined time has elapsed. The termination conditions can be set by the user. For example, the number of retries and the retry interval in the case of not detecting the image forming apparatus can be set as set values. In addition, the termination conditions described above may also be applied to the case in which the image forming apparatus at the first site has been found. This is because if PC3 is installed at the first site, the following processing at the second site is unnecessary.

[0067] If the termination conditions are met, the CPU 32 makes a positive decision in step S106 and terminates this processing routine. On the other hand, if the termination conditions are not met, the CPU 32 makes a negative decision in step S106, returns to step S104, and continues searching for the image forming apparatus.

[0068] If the image forming apparatus is found and a positive determination is made in step S105, the CPU 32 retrieves a print job from the print management server 2 in step S108.

[0069] If multiple image forming machines are found through the search, one of them can be selected as the search result according to a predetermined priority order. The predetermined priority order may be set by the user, or it may be automatically set to the image forming machine that is closer to the PC3 than the PC3, either by the physical distance or the logical distance on the network. The information indicating the above priority order is pre-set in the PC3 as the printer information and stored in data 35D.

[0070] In acquiring a print job, CPU32 first requests the print management server 2 to provide the user's print job. Specifically, it requests the print management server 2 to provide information indicating the print job for the user ID that identifies the user, such as a unique identifier for the print job. In response to the request from PC3 (i.e., CPU32), the print management server 2 outputs the unique identifier for the print job to PC3 (i.e., CPU32). CPU32 receives the unique identifier for the print job, which is the response from the print management server 2, and executes the process of downloading the print job corresponding to the received identifier. Specifically, it requests the print management server 2 to output the print job corresponding to the identifier received by CPU32. In response to the request from PC3 (i.e., CPU32), the print management server 2 outputs the print job to PC3 (i.e., CPU32). CPU32 downloads the print job by storing the print job, which is the response from the print management server 2, in the storage unit 35.

[0071] Here, the image forming apparatus 5 has a security level LL (LH > LL) which is lower than the security level LH ​​set at the first site, making it difficult to directly download print jobs. On the other hand, PC3 can access the print management server 2 with security level LH ​​and can download print jobs.

[0072] Next, in step S110, the CPU 32 performs a formatting process for the print job. This formatting process involves deleting authentication information included in the print job and converting the print parameters, including control commands included in the print job, into print parameters including the control commands of the image forming apparatus 5, which are the result of the search described above. Once the processing in step S110 is completed, the print job becomes ready for printing at the image forming apparatus 5 at the second location.

[0073] The process of deleting authentication information included in a print job is performed when the image forming apparatus to be printed is an image forming apparatus 5 installed at a second location such as a home, and authentication processing is not required for that image forming apparatus 5.

[0074] After the CPU 32 completes the process of deleting authentication information and converting print parameters, including control commands, it executes a confirmation process in step S112. This confirmation process assists the user in confirming the print job to be printed. Specifically, the CPU 32 controls the display unit 39 to display information indicating the print job, such as the print job identifier mentioned above, and printer information. The user makes an instruction to select the print job to be printed by operating the operation input unit 38 while referring to the display unit 39. The CPU 32 identifies the print job instructed by the operation of the operation input unit 38 and accepts the identified print job as the print job to be printed.

[0075] Next, in step S114, the CPU 32 outputs the received print job to the image forming apparatus 5 and terminates this processing routine.

[0076] As described above, according to this embodiment, it is possible to acquire a print job from a print management server 2, where the print job for which a print instruction has been received is registered, at a second location such as a home, while maintaining a predetermined first security level LH. Therefore, it is not necessary to prepare an image forming apparatus with a security level LH ​​to be maintained, or to switch from an image forming apparatus with a security level LL (lower than security level LH) to an image forming apparatus with a security level LH. Accordingly, the information processing system according to this embodiment can reduce the burden on the user.

[0077] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, since the print parameters, including control commands included in the print job, are converted into print parameters, including control commands, for the image forming apparatus 5 that is the target of the printing process, the burden on the user can be further reduced.

[0078] [Second Embodiment] Next, a second embodiment will be described. Since the second embodiment has the same configuration as the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for the same parts, and detailed descriptions will be omitted. Furthermore, the differences between the second embodiment and the first embodiment will be described.

[0079] In the first embodiment, a case was described in which a PC3 moved from a first location such as a company to a second location such as a home, and a print job was registered and printed on the second location network NH. In the second embodiment, PC3 installed at the second location is connected to PC3A installed at the first location, and the process of registering a print job is executed via remote control using so-called remote desktop.

[0080] Figure 5 shows an example of a schematic configuration of the information processing system according to the second embodiment.

[0081] In the second embodiment, the information processing system 1A is further connected to the second base network NC of the information processing system 1 shown in Figure 1, with PC3A configured similarly to PC3. In the second embodiment, PC3 and PC3A are configured to be able to connect via remote desktop via network N.

[0082] In the second embodiment, the PC3 shown in Figure 1 will be referred to as the first PC3, and the PC3A connected via remote desktop will be referred to as the second PC3A.

[0083] Furthermore, since the configuration of the second PC3A is the same as that of the first PC, PC3 shown in Figure 1, a detailed explanation will be omitted. In the following explanation, when the first PC3 and the second PC3A are described differently, the component of the first PC3 will be indicated by the symbol "A".

[0084] The second PC3A is an example of a device installed at the first location of this disclosure.

[0085] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow by the agent program 35P stored in the first PC3 according to this embodiment. In this embodiment of the information processing system 1, we will describe the case where the first PC3 is connected to the second base network NH and remotely desktop-connected to the second PC3A, which is connected to the first base network NC.

[0086] In the processing performed by the agent program 35P shown in Figure 6, the CPU 32 executes steps S101 and S103 instead of step S102 shown in Figure 4.

[0087] Specifically, in step S100, when CPU32 completes the login process (i.e., user authentication), in step S101, it executes the remote connection process using the well-known remote desktop connection.

[0088] Next, if the remote connection process is completed, in step S103, the CPU 32 has the second PC 3A perform the process of registering the print job to be printed with the print management server 2. Specifically, the CPU 32 remotely controls the remotely connected CPU 32A (i.e., the second PC 3A) to request the print management server 2 to perform the login process to the print management server 2 by a registered user, and to register the print job to be printed with the print management server 2.

[0089] The print management server 2 receives a request from PC3, performs authentication processing, and if it matches the registered user ID and password, registers the print job in a storage unit (not shown) as an authenticated user. Once the print job registration is complete, the print management server 2 sends information to the second PC3A, the device that requested the print job registration, indicating that the registration is complete and notifies it of the completion of registration.

[0090] The CPU 32 of the first PC3 detects that the registration of the print job is complete and, in step S104, searches for the image forming apparatus as described above. Note that the process from step S105 onward is the same as the process shown in Figure 1, so the explanation will be omitted.

[0091] As described above, according to this embodiment, it is possible to remotely connect to the second PC3A at the first location from a second location such as one's home and register print jobs with the print management server 2. Therefore, print jobs can be registered at the first location while maintaining security level LH. This embodiment is effective when the registration of print jobs is limited to computers installed within the first location.

[0092] [Third Embodiment] Next, a third embodiment will be described. Since the third embodiment has the same configuration as the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for the same parts, and detailed descriptions will be omitted. Furthermore, the differences between the third embodiment and the first embodiment will be described.

[0093] In this case, if an image forming machine is not set up at a second location such as the user's home, the user may wish to have the print job processed using an image forming machine installed at a third location, such as a convenience store, in addition to the first and second locations. Furthermore, it may be difficult to move PC3 from the second to the third location.

[0094] Therefore, in the third embodiment, a mobile terminal is used to execute the printing process of a print job on an image forming apparatus installed at a third location other than the first and second locations.

[0095] Figure 7 shows an example of a schematic configuration of the information processing system according to the third embodiment.

[0096] The information processing system 1B according to the third embodiment is configured by adding a print support server 7 and an image forming apparatus 8 installed at a third location such as a convenience store to the information processing system 1 shown in Figure 1. In addition, the information processing system 1B includes a mobile terminal 9 instead of the image forming apparatus 5, and the mobile terminal 9 is connected to the second location network NH.

[0097] Specifically, the information processing system 1B includes a print support server 7 that is built on the cloud network CLD-C, which is constructed for print support, and provides print support services. The print support server 7 is connected to network N. The print support server 7 can control an image forming apparatus 8 installed at a third location, such as a convenience store, which is connected via network N.

[0098] In other words, the print support server 7 is built on the user-shared cloud network CLD-C, connected to network N, and functions as a device that provides various print support services using image forming apparatus managed by the print support server 7. For example, the print support server 7 enables connection from any computer (PC) and mobile devices such as smartphones and mobile phones via network N by performing a predetermined authentication process for the print support server 7.

[0099] Furthermore, the print support server 7, built on the cloud network CLD-C, can be connected to by any computer (PC) and mobile device using security level LM, which is different from the security levels LH and LL mentioned above. In other words, a print job can be registered with the print support server 7 using any computer (PC) or mobile device, and the registered print job can be printed by the image forming apparatus 8.

[0100] The mobile terminal 9 is an example of the third device of this disclosure. The print support server 7 is an example of the fourth device of this disclosure. The image forming apparatus 8 is an example of the fifth device of this disclosure.

[0101] The aforementioned cloud network CLD-C and print support server 7 are well-known configurations, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0102] The mobile terminal 9, connected to the second site network NH, is a portable terminal device used to issue print commands at the third site. The mobile terminal 9 has a configuration substantially similar to that of the PC3 described above, so a detailed explanation is omitted. However, it is preferable that it is equipped with wireless communication functions, such as short-range wireless communication, and configured to enable wireless communication with other devices at short range. Furthermore, the mobile terminal 9 stores a mobile agent program and information indicating that it is a mobile terminal for printing as printer information, in order to issue print commands at the third site.

[0103] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow by the agent program 35P stored in the PC3 according to the third embodiment.

[0104] In the processing performed by the agent program 35P shown in Figure 8, the CPU 32 performs information processing by adding the processes from steps S120 to S132 between the processes of steps S105 and S106 shown in Figure 4.

[0105] Specifically, as described above, in step S100, the CPU 32 of PC3 completes the login process (i.e., user authentication), and in step S102, it executes the process of registering the print job with the print management server 2. Next, when the CPU 32 receives a registration completion notification from the print management server 2, it searches for the image forming apparatus in step S104, and in the next step S105, it determines whether or not the image forming apparatus is found as a result of the search. In this embodiment, the mobile terminal 9 stores information indicating that it is a mobile terminal for printing as printer information because it issues print instructions at the third location. Therefore, in the search process in step S104, the mobile terminal 9 is detected instead of the image forming apparatus.

[0106] If an image forming apparatus is found and a positive determination is made in step S105, the CPU 32 executes the processes described above from step S108 onwards.

[0107] On the other hand, if no image forming apparatus is found and it is determined to be invalid in step S105, the CPU 32 proceeds to step S120.

[0108] In step S120, the CPU 32 determines whether or not the mobile terminal 9 has been detected based on the network information and printer information.

[0109] If the mobile device 9 is not detected and a negative determination is made in step S120, the CPU 32 determines in step S106 above whether the termination condition is met. If the determination is negative, the process returns to step S104; if the determination is positive, the processing routine terminates.

[0110] If the mobile terminal 9 is detected and a positive determination is made in step S120, the CPU 32 retrieves a print job from the print management server 2 in step S122, similar to step S108 described above.

[0111] Next, in step S124, the CPU 32 performs a formatting process for the print job for printing at the third site. This formatting process involves modifying the authentication information included in the print job and converting the print parameters, including control commands, included in the print job into print parameters, including control commands for the image forming apparatus 8 at the third site. Furthermore, the print parameters, including the control commands for the image forming apparatus 8 at the third location used in this conversion process, are assumed to have been obtained in advance from the print support server 7. In addition, the process of changing the authentication information included in the print job during the print job formatting process is a process of changing it to the authentication information obtained in advance from the print support server 7. Once the print job formatting process is completed, the print job can be registered with the print support server 7. After the formatting process is completed, the print job becomes a printable print job at the image forming apparatus 8 at the third location.

[0112] When the CPU 32 finishes formatting the print job, in step S126 it sends the print job, including the modified authentication information and parameters, to the print support server 7 and requests registration as output data. Next, when the CPU 32 receives a registration completion notification from the print support server 7, in step S128 it outputs the authentication information for service use by the print support server 7, and the job information of the print job, such as an identifier indicating the print job to be printed, to the mobile terminal 9.

[0113] It should be assumed that the mobile agent program is started on the mobile terminal 9 before the process in step S128 is executed. The mobile agent program on the mobile terminal 9 includes the process of displaying the job information of the print job sent from the PC 3, and sending a print command for the print job selected by the user from the displayed job information of the print jobs.

[0114] Next, in step S130, the CPU 32 controls the mobile terminal 9 to perform a print job confirmation process for the user. That is, the CPU 32 controls the output of the print job information to the mobile terminal 9, thereby transferring the print job confirmation process to the mobile terminal 9. This confirmation process is a process in which the mobile terminal 9 allows the user to confirm the print job to be printed. Specifically, the CPU of the mobile terminal 9 controls the display unit of the mobile terminal 9 to display job information indicating the print job, such as the print job identifier mentioned above, and printer information. By displaying the job information indicating the print job and printer information on the display unit of the mobile terminal 9, it is possible to notify the user that the print job is ready to print. The user checks the display unit of the mobile terminal 9, confirms that the print job is ready to print, and moves to the third location where the image forming apparatus 8 is installed.

[0115] Next, the user controls the input unit while referring to the display unit of the mobile terminal 9 to select a print job to print. The CPU of the mobile terminal 9 identifies the print job instructed by the operation of the input unit and accepts the identified print job as the print job to be printed.

[0116] Next, in step S132, the CPU of the mobile terminal 9 outputs the job information and authentication information of the received print job to the image forming apparatus 8 at the third location, and terminates this processing routine.

[0117] The image forming apparatus 8 at the third location uses the received authentication information to download registered output data indicating the target print job from the print support server 7 and executes the printing process.

[0118] As described above, according to this embodiment, print jobs can be acquired while maintaining security level LH, and the print jobs can be printed at a third location such as a convenience store. Therefore, even if an image forming apparatus is not installed at the location, it is possible to print the print jobs using a public image forming apparatus while ensuring the security level that should be maintained. Accordingly, the information processing system according to this embodiment can reduce the burden on the user.

[0119] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, since print jobs can be instructed to run using a mobile terminal 9 which is lighter than the PC 3, the burden on the user can be further reduced compared to carrying the PC 3 and issuing print commands.

[0120] [Other embodiments] The above describes an information processing system based on an embodiment. The configuration of the information processing system described in the above embodiment is an example and may be modified as needed without departing from the main point. Similarly, the processing flow of the program described in the above embodiment is an example and may be modified without departing from the main point, such as deleting unnecessary steps, adding new steps, or changing the processing order.

[0121] In this embodiment, each process is executed on any computer. Furthermore, any computer may execute these processes using a processor as hardware, a program as software, or a combination thereof. In that case, the processor is configured to work in cooperation with the program to execute the various processes in this embodiment, and can function as a unit or means in this embodiment. Also, the execution order of the processes by the processor is not limited to the order described and may be changed as appropriate. Any computer may be a general-purpose computer, a computer designed for a specific purpose, a workstation, or any other system capable of executing each process.

[0122] A processor may consist of one or more hardware components, and the type of hardware is not limited. For example, a processor may consist of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a programmable logic device such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), a dedicated circuit for executing a specific process such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), a GPU (Graphic Processing Unit), or an NPU (Neural Processing Unit). Furthermore, the type of hardware may be a combination of different types of hardware. When multiple hardware components are configured to execute one or more processes of a processor, these components may reside in physically separate devices or in the same device. Also, in any embodiment, the order of each process performed by the processor is not limited to the order described above and may be changed as appropriate. Hardware is composed of electrical circuits (circuitry) that combine circuit elements such as semiconductor elements.

[0123] Furthermore, the program may be firmware or software such as microcode. Alternatively, the program may be, for example, a group of program modules, each function of which may be implemented by a processor configured to perform its respective function. The program may be program code or multiple code segments stored on one or more non-temporary computer-readable media (e.g., storage media or other storage). The program may be divided and stored on multiple non-temporary computer-readable media located on physically separate devices. The program code or code segments may represent any combination of procedures, functions, subprograms, routines, subroutines, modules, software packages, classes, or instructions, data structures, or program statements. The program code or code segments may be connected to other code segments or hardware circuits by sending and receiving information, data, arguments, parameters, or memory contents. The program of this application may also be provided as a program product.

[0124] Furthermore, the above embodiment includes the following technologies.

[0125] (((1))) Equipped with a processor, The aforementioned processor, Accepting print instructions for a print job, Based on the print instructions for the received print job, the print job is retrieved from the first device where the print job is registered, while maintaining a predetermined first security level. The acquired print job is output to a second device that processes the print job at a second security level lower than the first security level, and control is performed accordingly. Information processing system.

[0126] (((2))) The print job is associated with user information indicating the user who instructed the registration of the print job. The aforementioned processor, Obtain user information indicating the user who issued the print command for the aforementioned print job. The system performs control to acquire a print job that matches the acquired user information with the user information assigned to the print job. The information processing system described in (((1))).

[0127] (((3))) The aforementioned processor, A candidate device capable of outputting the aforementioned print job is detected. The detected candidate device is determined to be the second device. The system performs control to convert the print job into a print job corresponding to the type of candidate device, which is the second device, that has been determined. The information processing system described in (((1))) or (((2))).

[0128] (((4))) The aforementioned processor, The control is performed to repeatedly execute the detection process of the candidate device for a predetermined period of time. The information processing device described in (((3))).

[0129] (((5))) The aforementioned processor, If multiple candidate devices are detected, In accordance with a predetermined priority order, one of the devices is designated as the second device. The information processing system described in (((3))) or (((4))).

[0130] (((6))) The aforementioned processor, When performing the aforementioned acquisition control and output control, if information related to the print job is generated, after performing the control to output the print job to the second device, the control to erase the information related to the print job is performed. An information processing system described in any one of (((1))) through (((5))).

[0131] (((7))) The aforementioned processor, Control is performed to register the print job at a predetermined first position. Control is performed to accept a print command for the print job at a second position different from the first position. An information processing system described in any one of (((1))) through (((6))).

[0132] (((8))) The aforementioned processor, The device installed at the first location is controlled to perform print job registration by remotely connecting from a second location different from the first location while maintaining a security level equal to or higher than a predetermined first security level. At the second position, control is performed to accept the print command for the print job. The information processing system described in (((7))).

[0133] (((9))) The aforementioned processor, The information regarding the print instructions for the acquired print job is output to a third device predetermined to hold this information. The acquired print job is output to a predetermined fourth device while maintaining a third security level that is equal to or higher than the first security level. The fourth device is pre-configured to output the print job to the fifth device, and based on the print instruction information for the print job held in the third device, the third device controls the output of the print job from the fourth device to the fifth device so that it can be printed. An information processing system described in any one of (((1))) through (((8))).

[0134] (((10))) This is a program that causes the processor to output a print job. The aforementioned processor, Accepting print instructions for a print job, Based on the print instructions for the received print job, the print job is retrieved from the first device where the print job is stored, while maintaining a predetermined first security level. The acquired print job is output to a second device that processes the print job at a second security level lower than the first security level, and control is performed accordingly. A program that handles a task.

[0135] According to (((1))), this reduces the burden on the user compared to switching to a printer capable of performing printing while maintaining security. According to (((2))), this has the effect of maintaining confidentiality compared to a configuration that acquires print jobs without considering the suitability of user information. According to (((3))), compared to a configuration in which the acquired print job is output directly to the second device, this has the effect of being able to output information according to the type of second device. According to (((4))), this configuration has the effect of reducing the processing load on the processor compared to a configuration that continuously performs the candidate device detection process. According to (((5))), this configuration has the effect of allowing the processor to proceed more smoothly compared to a configuration that interrupts processing in order to determine the second device. According to (((6))), this configuration has the effect of maintaining the confidentiality of information related to the print job compared to a configuration that holds information generated by the processor's processing. According to (((7))), compared to a configuration in which the print instructions for a print job and the output control of a print job are performed at the same location, this has the effect of increasing the degree of freedom regarding the position dependency of processing related to print jobs. According to (((8))), compared to a configuration in which the print instructions for a print job and the control of the output of a print job are performed at the same location, this has the effect of increasing the degree of freedom regarding the position dependency of processing related to print jobs. According to (((9))), compared to a configuration in which the print instructions for a print job and the output control of a print job are performed at the same location, this has the effect of increasing the degree of freedom regarding the position dependency of processing related to print jobs. According to (((10))), this reduces the burden on the user compared to switching to a printer capable of performing printing while maintaining security. [Explanation of symbols]

[0136] 1. Information Processing System 2. Print management server 3. 3A Computer 4, 5 Image forming apparatus 32 CPU 35 Storage section 35D Data 35P Agent Program 37 Communications Department 38 Operation Input Section 39 Display section 40 Processing Unit 45 Storage section 45D Data 45P Image Processing Program 47 Communications Department 48 Input Display Section

Claims

1. Equipped with a processor, The aforementioned processor, Accepting print instructions for a print job, Based on the print instructions for the received print job, the print job is acquired from the first device where the print job is registered, while maintaining a predetermined first security level. The acquired print job is output to a second device that processes the print job at a second security level lower than the first security level, and control is performed accordingly. Information processing system.

2. The print job is associated with user information indicating the user who instructed the registration of the print job. The aforementioned processor, Obtain user information indicating the user who issued the print command for the aforementioned print job. The system performs control to acquire a print job that matches the acquired user information with the user information assigned to the print job. The information processing system according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned processor, A candidate device capable of outputting the aforementioned print job is detected. The detected candidate device is determined to be the second device. The system performs control to convert the print job into a print job corresponding to the type of candidate device, which is the second device, that has been determined. The information processing system according to claim 1.

4. The aforementioned processor, The control is performed to repeatedly execute the detection process of the candidate device for a predetermined period of time. The information processing system according to claim 3.

5. The aforementioned processor, If multiple candidate devices are detected, In accordance with a predetermined priority order, one of the devices is designated as the second device. The information processing system according to claim 3.

6. The aforementioned processor, When performing the aforementioned acquisition control and output control, if information related to the print job is generated, after performing the control to output the print job to the second device, the control to erase the information related to the print job is performed. The information processing system according to claim 1.

7. The aforementioned processor, Control is performed to register the print job at a predetermined first position. Control is performed to accept a print command for the print job at a second position different from the first position. The information processing system according to claim 1.

8. The aforementioned processor, The device installed at the first location is controlled to perform print job registration by remotely connecting from a second location different from the first location while maintaining a security level equal to or higher than a predetermined first security level. At the second position, control is performed to accept the print command for the print job. The information processing system according to claim 7.

9. The aforementioned processor, The information regarding the print instructions for the acquired print job is output to a third device predetermined to hold this information. The acquired print job is output to a predetermined fourth device while maintaining a third security level that is equal to or higher than the first security level. The fourth device is pre-configured to output the print job to the fifth device, and based on the print instruction information for the print job held in the third device, the third device controls the output of the print job from the fourth device to the fifth device so that it can be printed. The information processing system according to claim 1.

10. This is a program that causes the processor to output a print job. The aforementioned processor, Accepting print instructions for a print job, Based on the print instructions for the received print job, the print job is retrieved from the first device where the print job is stored, while maintaining a predetermined first security level. The acquired print job is output to a second device that processes the print job at a second security level lower than the first security level, and control is performed accordingly. A program that handles a task.

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