Printing system, information processing device and its control method, and program

Abstract

The system does not account for cases where the paper type you want to set in a paper cassette is not compatible with that cassette. For example, this could include situations where the paper guides in the paper cassette are screwed in, physically preventing the use of other paper types, or where the paper can only be fed via a straight path (straight output). [Solution] A printing system comprising an image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus, wherein the information processing apparatus selects a recording medium and, if the image forming apparatus has a plurality of paper feeding units, controls the apparatus to display a predetermined message based on the fact that there is a paper feeding unit among the plurality of paper feeding units that cannot be set with the recording medium.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a printing system, an information processing apparatus and its control method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in the commercial printing industry, publications have been issued through various work processes. Specifically, the work processes include manuscript submission, design application to the manuscript, layout editing, comp (print presentation), proofreading (layout correction and color correction), proof printing, plate making, printing, post-processing, shipping, etc. In particular, in the case of the commercial printing industry, since an offset plate printing machine is often used in the printing process, the plate making process is an essential process. However, once the plate making is done, it is not easy to modify, and if a modification is made, it becomes quite disadvantageous in terms of cost. Therefore, meticulous proofreading (i.e., careful layout checking and color confirmation work) is essential for plate making. For this reason, it generally takes a certain period of time until the publication is completed.

[0003] Also, in the case of the commercial printing industry, many of the devices used in each work process are large-scale and costly. In addition, since specialized knowledge is required for the work in each of these processes, the know-how of skilled workers, so-called craftsmen, has been indispensable.

[0004] In response to such a situation in the commercial printing industry, recently, with the increase in speed and image quality of other types of printing devices, a market called Print On Demand (hereinafter referred to as POD) is emerging. Examples of such other types of printing devices include electrophotographic printing devices and inkjet printing devices.

[0005] The POD (Print on Demand) market has emerged as an alternative to the large-scale printing presses and methods mentioned above, enabling the handling of relatively small-lot jobs with short turnaround times, without the need for large-scale equipment or systems. In the POD market, for example, by making maximum use of printing equipment such as digital copiers and digital multifunction printers, it is possible to realize digital printing using electronic data and provide printing services.

[0006] Furthermore, the print-on-demand (POD) market is more digitized than the traditional commercial printing industry, and the widespread use of computer-based management and control makes it possible to issue publications with shorter lead times and eliminates the need for human expertise. Moreover, the image quality of publications has recently been approaching the level of the commercial printing industry.

[0007] In light of these circumstances, Patent Document 1 proposes a mechanism that enables the construction of a printing environment that can flexibly handle a wide variety of recording media with different attributes, and that can adequately address the needs that may arise in a POD environment. Furthermore, it is described that this mechanism enables the construction of a printing environment that minimizes the increase in the burden on operators working on-site. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2007-128178 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0009] According to Patent Document 1, it is possible to construct a printing environment that can flexibly handle a wide variety of recording media with different attributes, so as to support POD (Print on Demand) environments. Furthermore, it is possible to construct a printing environment that adequately addresses the needs that may arise in POD environments while minimizing the increase in the burden on operators working on-site. As a result, it is possible to provide a system that can flexibly respond to a wide range of needs from various users, anticipating various situations and usage environments.

[0010] However, Patent Document 1 mentioned above does not consider cases where the paper to be set in the paper feed cassette cannot be set in the target paper feed cassette. For example, there may be paper feed cassettes where the paper guides are fixed with screws, making it physically impossible to use other sizes or types of paper. Also, there may be paper feed cassettes that can only use paper that can be fed in a straight path (straight output).

[0011] The object of the present invention is to solve at least one of the problems of the prior art described above.

[0012] The objective of the present invention is to solve the above-mentioned conventional problems by notifying the user of any paper feed unit that cannot accept a selected recording medium when setting the recording medium in the print settings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] To achieve the above objective, a printing system according to one aspect of the present invention has the following configuration. That is, A printing system having an image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus, The aforementioned information processing device is A means of selecting a recording medium, When the image forming apparatus has multiple paper feeding units, it is characterized by controlling the apparatus to perform a predetermined display based on the fact that there is a paper feeding unit among the multiple paper feeding units that cannot hold the recording medium. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to the present invention, when setting a selected recording medium in the paper feeding unit, by notifying whether the recording medium can be set in the paper feeding unit, there is an effect that the convenience when the user makes printing settings can be improved.

[0015] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the accompanying drawings, the same or similar configurations are given the same reference numerals.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0016] The accompanying drawings are included in the specification, form a part thereof, show embodiments of the present invention, and are used to explain the principle of the present invention together with the description. [Figure 1] A diagram showing an example of a printing system including a digital multi-functional machine according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 2] A diagram for explaining an example of a media set template included in the digital multi-functional machine according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] A block diagram for explaining the schematic configuration of the digital multi-functional machine according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] A block diagram for explaining the hardware configuration of the controller unit of the digital multi-functional machine according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] An external view of the operation unit of the digital multi-functional machine according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] A schematic cross-sectional view of the digital multi-functional machine according to Embodiment 1. [[ID=3,3]] [Figure 7] A block diagram for explaining the hardware configuration of the client PC according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] A flowchart for explaining the processing of the client PC according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 9] A diagram showing an example of a printing setting screen displayed on the display device of the client PC. [Figure 10] A diagram showing an example of a media set template selection window for selecting a media set template. ] [Figure 11] FIG. (a) showing an example of display of a media set template by a client PC according to Embodiment 1, FIG. (b) showing an example of a paper feed cassette selection window displayed on the client PC, and FIG. (c) showing an example of a paper feed cassette setting window displayed on the client PC. [Figure 12] Flowchart for explaining paper setting processing by a client PC according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 13] Flowchart for explaining paper setting processing by a client PC according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 14] Flowchart for explaining paper setting processing by a client PC according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 15] Flowchart for explaining paper setting processing by a client PC according to Embodiment 4. [Figure 16] Flowchart for explaining paper setting processing by a client PC according to Embodiment 5 [Figure 17] Flowchart for explaining paper setting processing by a client PC according to Embodiment 6 [Figure 18] FIG. (a) showing an example of a warning screen displayed at S1206, and FIG. (b) showing an example of a warning screen displayed at S1411. [Figure 19] FIG. showing an example of data content of a media set template according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 20] FIG. showing an example of a table summarizing restrictions of each paper feed cassette according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 21] FIG. showing an example of a table for managing information of a paper feed cassette according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 22] FIG. showing an example of a table associating a media set template according to Embodiment 1 with a designated paper feed cassette. [Figure 23] FIG. showing an example of a table stored in the memory of a digital multi-function machine according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 24] FIG. showing an example of a management table for managing information of a recording medium according to Embodiment 1. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0017] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the invention to the claims. While multiple features are described in the embodiments, not all of these features are essential to the invention, and the features may be combined in any way. Furthermore, in the attached drawings, the same or similar configurations are given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted. ·"record" In this specification, "record" does not refer only to cases where meaningful information is formed, such as characters or figures. It does not refer to cases where the information is meaningful or meaningless, or where it is manifested in a way that can be perceived visually by a human being. It also broadly refers to cases where images, patterns, etc. are formed on a recording medium, or where a medium is processed. • "Recording medium" The term "recording medium" refers not only to paper, which is commonly used in recording devices, but also to a wider range of materials capable of accepting ink, such as cloth, plastic film, metal plates, glass, ceramics, wood, and leather.

[0018] [Embodiment 1] Figure 1 shows an example of a printing system equipped with a digital multifunction printer (image forming apparatus) 102 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0019] This printing system consists of a client PC (information processing device) 101 and a digital multifunction printer 102, both of which are connected to each other via a network 103 so that they can communicate with one another. The client PC 101 sends print jobs to the digital multifunction printer 102 to print them.

[0020] Figure 2 illustrates an example of a media set template 201 possessed by the digital multifunction printer 102 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating the schematic configuration of the digital multifunction printer 102 according to Embodiment 1.

[0021] This media set template 201 is stored in the memory unit (memory 305 in Figure 3) of the digital multifunction printer 102. This media set template 201 is managed by the controller unit 302 (Figure 3) of the digital multifunction printer 102. The controller unit 302 stores the media set template 201 data by associating multiple selectable recording media options with identifiers. In this way, the controller unit 302 manages multiple options corresponding to each identifier and displays the options associated with each identifier on the display device 706 (Figure 7) of the client PC 101. Here, we use "setting media name," which indicates the attributes of the recording media, as an example of an option. We also use "template name" as an example of an identifier. Identifiers and options are configured to be registerable by the user via the user interface units, such as the operation unit 304 of the digital multifunction printer 102, the input device 705 (Figure 7) of the client PC 101, and the display device 706. When the controller unit 302 receives instructions to register identifiers or options via the user interface unit, it follows these instructions and registers the identifiers, options, and their associations in the media set template 201 of the memory 305.

[0022] In Figure 2, the media set template 201 shows one identifier and five associated options. However, in this embodiment, the controller unit 302 controls the media set template 201 so that multiple identifiers and multiple options can be registered. An example of the data (table content) of this media set template 201 will be explained with reference to Figure 19.

[0023] Figure 19 shows an example of the data contents of a media set template according to Embodiment 1.

[0024] For example, the controller unit 302 associates the data for the template name (identifier) ​​1901 and the setting media name (option) 1902, and stores them in memory 305 as data for the media set template 201. Figure 2 shows an example of a media set template with the template name "○○○ Company".

[0025] In the example in Figure 19, the user has registered six identifiers in memory 305 with unique names: "○○○ Company", "△△△ Trading Co.", "User A", "12 / 06 item", "Cheap paper set", and "Bookbinding set". Furthermore, the user has associated five setting media name options—"Hammer Mill Bond", "GA Board", "NB Recycle", "Gingham GA", and "Kenaf Kent"—with one identifier, "○○○ Company". Similarly, four options—"NB Recycle", "AB Recycle 20", "Kenaf Kent", and "CC Thick Paper"—have been registered and associated with one identifier, "△△△ Trading Co.". Furthermore, three options—"Hammer Mill Bond", "GA Board", and "OHP Clear"—have been registered and associated with one identifier, "12 / 06 item", one option—"Washi 44". Furthermore, under the identifier "Cheap Paper Set," three options—"Best Cost Paper," "Reasonable Paper," and "NB Recycled"—are registered and associated. Additionally, under the identifier "Bookbinding Set," three options—"Kenaf Kent," "Bookbinding Paper BI," and "COP Plain Paper"—are registered and associated. This user-registered data is stored in memory 305 under the control of controller unit 302.

[0026] In this embodiment, the controller unit 302 controls the system so that multiple identifiers can be registered in the memory 305 as data for the media set template 201. Furthermore, the controller unit 302 controls the system so that each identifier can be associated with and registered in the memory 305 the options selectable by the digital multifunction device 102. In addition, the controller unit 302 controls the system so that multiple options can be associated with and registered for a single identifier. Furthermore, the controller unit 302 controls the system so that one option can be associated with and registered for a single identifier.

[0027] As shown in Figure 19, the options are not necessarily unique and may be associated with multiple identifiers. In this case, the options may be stored in a separate table containing attributes and other parameters corresponding to each option, and an association may be made with that table.

[0028] As described above, the digital multifunction printer 102 according to Embodiment 1 provides a selection of multiple recording media. The controller unit 302 of this digital multifunction printer 102 uses these multiple recording media selections to control the printing process on the selected recording media. Here, each recording media has different attributes used for the printing process. These attributes include, for example, the thickness of the recording media, the color, and the fixing voltage. To accommodate this, the controller unit 302 stores and manages a table of recording media, as shown in Figure 24, in the memory 305.

[0029] Figure 24 shows an example of a management table for managing information on the recording medium according to Embodiment 1.

[0030] This management table for the recording medium records various attributes specific to the recording medium and the parameters used for printing associated with those attributes, and is configured to be used by the controller unit 302 during the printing process. In this table, the basis weight, paper feeding method, and size of each media (recording medium) are registered in association with it.

[0031] The media set template 201 and the management table are configured to be readable as needed when performing printing operations in response to operations from the user interface section of the client PC 101 or the digital multifunction printer 102. The selection of recording media based on the information in the media set template 201 is associated with the recording media table, and when an option is selected based on the media set template 201, the attribute information of the recording media is made available. In other words, when executing a printing operation, the controller unit 302 searches the recording media table held in the memory 305 and executes the printing operation using the thickness, color, fixing voltage, and other information corresponding to the selected recording media. Note that these configurations are not limited to Embodiment 1, but are also used in Embodiments 2 to 5 described later.

[0032] Next, the functional configuration of the digital multifunction printer 102 according to Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to Figure 3.

[0033] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating the schematic configuration of the digital multifunction device 102 according to Embodiment 1, and in particular, it illustrates a block diagram of a digital multifunction device that has functions such as copying, printing, and facsimile transmission and reception.

[0034] In Figure 3, the scanner unit 301 performs the document scanning process. The controller unit 302 processes the image data output by the scanner unit 301 after scanning the document and stores the resulting image data in the memory 305. The operation unit 304 sets various printing conditions for the image signal output from the scanner unit 301. The printer unit 303 then forms an image on the recording medium based on the image data read from the memory 305, under the printing conditions set by the operation unit 304.

[0035] Next, the hardware configuration details of the controller unit 302 that controls the digital multifunction printer 102 will be explained using Figure 4.

[0036] Figure 4 is a block diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of the controller unit 302 of the digital multifunction printer 102 according to Embodiment 1.

[0037] As shown in Figure 4, the main controller 401 within the controller unit 302 mainly comprises a CPU 402, a bus controller 403, and various I / F (interface) controller circuits. The CPU 402 and bus controller 403 control the operation of the entire digital multifunction device 102. The CPU 402 operates based on a program read from ROM 404 via ROM I / F 405. The operation of interpreting received PDL (page description language) code data and expanding it into raster image data is also described in this program and processed by software. The bus controller 403 controls the data transfer input and output from each I / F, and performs arbitration in the event of bus conflicts and controls the transfer of DMA data.

[0038] DRAM 406 is connected to the main controller 401 by DRAMI / F407 and is used as a work area for the CPU 402 to operate and as an area for storing image data. The codec 408 compresses the raster image data stored in DRAM 406 using methods such as MH / MR / MMR / JBIG / JPEG, and conversely, decompresses the compressed and stored code data into raster image data. SRAM 409 is used as a temporary work area for the codec 408. The codec 408 is connected to the main controller 401 via I / F410, and data transfer between it and DRAM 406 is controlled by the bus controller 403 and performed via DMA transfer.

[0039] The graphics processor 424 performs image rotation, image scaling, color space conversion, and binarization on the raster image data stored in the DRAM 406. The SRAM 425 is used as a temporary work area for the graphics processor 424. The graphics processor 424 is connected to the main controller 401 via an interface, and data transfer between it and the DRAM 406 is controlled by the bus controller 403 and performed via DMA transfer.

[0040] The network controller 411 is connected to the main controller 401 via interface 413 and to the external network via connector 412. Ethernet is a common network technology.

[0041] The general-purpose high-speed bus 415 is connected to an expansion connector 414 for connecting expansion boards and an I / O control unit 416. A PCI bus is a common example of a general-purpose high-speed bus. The I / O control unit 416 is equipped with two channels of asynchronous serial communication controllers 417 for sending and receiving control commands to and from the CPUs of the scanner unit 301 and the printer unit 303. It is also connected to the scanner interface 426 and printer interface 430 via the I / O bus 418.

[0042] The panel interface 421 is connected to the LCD controller 420 and has an interface for displaying information on the liquid crystal screen on the operation unit 304, and a key input interface for inputting information from hard keys and touch panel keys. The operation unit 304 has a liquid crystal display unit, a touch panel input device attached to the liquid crystal display unit, and a number of hard keys. Signals input via the touch panel or hard keys are transmitted to the CPU 402 via the aforementioned panel interface 421, and the liquid crystal display unit displays the image data sent from the panel interface 421. The liquid crystal display unit displays functions for operating the digital multifunction printer 102, as well as image data. The panel interface 421 is also connected to the I / O control unit 416 via interface 419.

[0043] The real-time clock module 422 is used to update and save the date and time managed within the device, and is backed up by a backup battery 423. The E-IDEI / F 439 is for connecting an external storage device. In this embodiment, a hard disk drive 438 is connected via this I / F 439, image data is stored in the hard disk 440, and image data is read from the hard disk 440. Connectors 427 and 432 are connected to the scanner unit 301 and the printer unit 303, respectively, and have asynchronous serial I / F (428, 433) and video I / F (429, 434). The scanner I / F 426 is connected to the scanner unit 301 via connector 427 and also connected to the main controller 401 via scanner bus 441, and has the function of performing predetermined processing on images received from the scanner unit 301. Furthermore, it also has the function of outputting control signals generated based on video control signals sent from the scanner unit 301 to the scanner bus 429. Data transfer from the scanner bus 429 to the DRAM 406 is controlled by the bus controller 403.

[0044] The printer interface 430 is connected to the printer unit 303 via connector 432. It is also connected to the main controller 401 via the printer bus 431. The printer interface 430 has the function of performing predetermined processing on image data output from the main controller 401 and outputting it to the printer unit 303. Furthermore, the printer interface 430 also has the function of outputting control signals generated based on video control signals sent from the printer unit 303 to the printer bus 431.

[0045] The transfer of raster image data deployed on the DRAM 406 to the printer unit 303 is controlled by the bus controller 403 and is DMA-transferred to the printer unit 303 via the printer bus 431 and video I / F 434.

[0046] SRAM436 is a memory that is powered by a backup battery, allowing it to retain its contents even if the entire digital multifunction device is powered off. It is connected to the I / O control unit 416 via bus 435. EEPROM437 is also a memory connected to the I / O control unit 416 via bus 435. The details of the hardware configuration of the controller unit 302 are as described above.

[0047] Next, we will explain the configuration of the operation unit 304 (user interface unit of the digital multifunction printer 102) for setting various print settings.

[0048] Figure 5 is an external view of the operation unit 304 of the digital multifunction printer 102 according to Embodiment 1.

[0049] This control unit 304 is connected to the panel I / F 421 in Figure 4. The reset key 502 is used to cancel settings that the user has set. The stop key 503 is used to cancel a job that is currently running. The numeric keypad 504 is used to input numerical values ​​such as the number of items. The operation screen 505 is a touch panel screen that displays pre-registered screens and also displays touch panel buttons for various settings. The start key 506 is used to start jobs such as scanning documents. The clear key 507 is used to clear various settings.

[0050] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the digital multifunction printer 102 according to Embodiment 1.

[0051] The document feeder 601 of the scanner unit 301 feeds the stacked documents one by one onto the platen glass 602, starting from the lowest sheet, and ejects the documents from the platen glass 602 after the document scanning operation is completed.

[0052] When the original document is transported on the platen glass 602, the lamp 603 is turned on, and the scanner unit 604 starts moving to expose and scan the original document. The reflected light from the original document at this time is reflected by mirrors 605, 606, and 607 and guided to the CCD image sensor 609 via lens 608. The image of the scanned original document is converted into an image signal by the CCD image sensor 609, and after predetermined processing, the image signal is transferred as image data to the printer unit 303 or the main controller 401.

[0053] The printer unit 303 has a laser driver for driving the laser light-emitting unit 610, and during copying, it drives and emits light from the laser light-emitting unit 610 according to the image data output from the scanner unit 301.

[0054] The printer control unit 621 of the printer unit 303 is connected to the outside via a network, processes the input image data, and drives the laser light-emitting unit 610 to emit light according to the image data. This laser light is swept by a rotating polyhedron mirror and then irradiated onto the photosensitive drum 611, forming a latent image on the photosensitive drum 611 corresponding to the exposure of the laser light. Developer is then applied to the latent image portion of the photosensitive drum 611 by the developer unit 612. The amount of developer (e.g., toner) is calculated by taking into account the signal from the image data, as well as a predefined table (e.g., ICC profile) and printing conditions. Therefore, by setting the toner amount in the printing conditions, printing can be achieved with an appropriate amount of toner for the recording medium. It is advisable to maintain the appropriate amount of toner for each media in a recording medium management table, such as the one shown in Figure 24. This enables printing using the appropriate amount of toner for the selected media.

[0055] Then, at a timing synchronized with the start of laser beam irradiation, the recording medium is supplied from paper feed cassette 613, paper feed cassette 614, etc. (however, the number of paper feed cassettes (paper feeding units) is not limited to two) and transported to the transfer unit 615. In this way, the developer attached to the photosensitive drum 611 is transferred to the recording medium.

[0056] The recording medium onto which the developer has been transferred is transported to the fuser unit 616, where the developer is fixed to the recording medium by the heat and pressure of the fuser unit 616. The temperature of the fuser unit 616 is configured to be changeable according to the printing conditions. This allows for fixing that is suitable for the type of recording medium. It is advisable to store this fixing temperature in memory or similar as a value corresponding to the type of recording medium. This enables printing using a fixing temperature appropriate for the recording medium used for printing.

[0057] The recording media that have passed through the fixing unit 616 are discharged by the discharge roller 617, and the sorter 620 sorts the discharged recording media by placing them into their respective bins. The top bin of the sorter 620 is the sample tray 622. In addition, there is a tray 623 that can hold a large amount of output. The flapper 624 switches between discharging to the sample tray 622 or tray 623.

[0058] Furthermore, if double-sided recording is set, the rotation direction of the discharge roller 617 is reversed, and the flapper 618 guides it to the re-feed transport path. If multiple recording is set, the flapper 618 guides the recording medium to the re-feed transport path so that it is not transported to the discharge roller 617. The recording medium guided to the re-feed transport path is transported by the rotation of the roller 619 and fed to the transfer unit 615 at the timing described above.

[0059] Next, the configuration of the client PC 101 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described.

[0060] Figure 7 is a block diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of the client PC 101 according to Embodiment 1.

[0061] The client PC 101 includes a control memory (ROM) 701, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 702, memory (RAM) 703, an external storage device 704, an input device 705, a display device 706, and a network interface 707. These are connected via a bus 708. The control program for realizing the information processing function according to Embodiment 1, and the data used in that control program, are stored in the control memory 701. These control programs and data are appropriately loaded into the memory 703 via the bus 708 under the control of the CPU 702 and executed by the CPU 702. Note that the operation unit 304 in Figure 3 includes the input device 705 and the display device 706.

[0062] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the client PC 101 according to Embodiment 1. This processing is performed on the client PC 101 when printing output from the digital multifunction printer 102 based on image data transmitted from the client PC 101. The processing described below is to be executed by the CPU 702 via the printer driver (printer driver for the digital multifunction printer 102) installed on the client PC 101. Various instructions and operations by the user are performed via the input device 705, which is the user interface part of the client PC 101. Examples of the input device 705 include pointing devices such as touchpads and keyboards. When using the user interface part of the digital multifunction printer 102, it is preferable to use the touch panel part or hard keys of the display device 706.

[0063] First, when S801 receives a print command from the user, the process proceeds to S802, and the CPU 702 displays the print settings screen shown in Figure 9 on the display device 706.

[0064] Figure 9 shows an example of the print settings screen displayed on the display device 706 of the client PC 101.

[0065] Figure 9 shows the paper feed settings screen in the print settings, and a feature of this embodiment is that it allows the user to select how to specify the paper to be used for printing. Here, the user can select one of the following: (a) specify by paper feed unit, (b) specify by paper type, or (c) specify by media set template. The OK button 902 stores the settings on this screen in memory and completes the print settings process, while the Cancel button 903 discards all settings on this screen and returns to the original screen. In the example in Figure 9, "specify by paper type" is selected.

[0066] In S803, CPU 702 determines whether "Specify with media set template" 901 on the print settings screen has been selected by the user. If CPU 702 determines that it has not been selected, the process proceeds to S814; otherwise, it proceeds to S804. In S804, CPU 702 displays the media set template selection window 1001 shown in Figure 10 on the display device 706 of the client PC 101. The display method may be, for example, by popping it up on the screen already displayed in Figure 9, or by displaying it as a new screen.

[0067] Figure 10 shows an example of the media set template selection window 1001 for selecting a media set template. Figure 10(a) shows the initial screen, which has an Get button 1002, an OK button 1005, and a Cancel button 1003 to instruct the user to obtain a media set template. The selection field 1004 is a display area for displaying media set templates. Figure 10(b) shows an example of the screen displayed when the Get button 1002 is pressed and a media set template is being searched for.

[0068] Next, in step S805, the CPU 702 determines whether the Acquire button 1002 in the media set template selection window 1001 has been pressed by the user. If it determines that the Acquire button 1002 has not been pressed, the process proceeds to S815, where it determines whether the Cancel button 1003 has been pressed. In S815, if the CPU 702 determines that the Cancel button 1003 has been pressed, it returns to S803. On the other hand, if it determines that the Cancel button 1003 has not been pressed, it returns to S805. At this point, since the media set template 201 registered in the digital multifunction printer 102 has not been acquired, the selection field 1004 on the media set template selection screen is blank. In this case, the CPU 702 controls the OK button 1005 so that it cannot be selected.

[0069] If the CPU 702 determines in S805 that the acquire button 1002 has been pressed, it proceeds to S806. In S806, the CPU 702 sends a command to the digital multifunction printer 102 via the network to acquire the media set template 201 from the digital multifunction printer 102. At the same time, the CPU 702 displays a window 1006 indicating that a search is in progress, as shown in Figure 10(b), on the display device 706, that is, a screen indicating that data for the media set template 201 is being acquired from the digital multifunction printer 102.

[0070] Upon receiving this command, the controller unit 302 of the digital multifunction printer 102 reads the media set template 201 from the memory 305 and sends it to the client PC 101. In other words, the client PC 101 can obtain the media set template 201 data held by the digital multifunction printer 102 via the network.

[0071] Furthermore, the controller unit 302 of the digital multifunction printer 102 also checks the paper feed cassette information at the time it reads the data of the media set template 201 from the memory 305. The controller unit 302 then sends information to the client PC 101 indicating whether or not each recording medium set in each media set template is loaded into the paper feed cassette at that time. The template name, set media name, and paper feed cassette ID information are managed in a table, for example, as shown in Figure 22. When setting and saving a media set template, the user interface is used to create a table, for example, as shown in Figure 22, based on the information entered into the media set template.

[0072] Figure 22 shows an example of a table for managing media set templates.

[0073] Next, we will explain how the information in the tables used when retrieving and saving media set templates is managed in memory 305.

[0074] Figure 23 shows an example of a table stored in the memory 305 of the digital multifunction printer 102 according to Embodiment 1.

[0075] Figure 23(a) is a conceptual diagram showing the arrangement of identifier (template name) 2201, option (configured media name) 2202, and paper feed cassette ID 2301 based on the data structure in Figure 22. In Figure 23(a), the template name (identifier) ​​is associated with the option (configured media (media type)) and the paper feed cassette that accommodates that configured media (paper feed cassette ID). Figure 23(b) is an example of how the information from the tables in Figures 19 and 22 can be saved as actual data in memory 305. In Figure 23(b), for example, the identifier "○○○ Company" is associated with the media "Hammer Mill Bond" at paper feed cassette ID=1, and the media "GA Board" at paper feed cassette ID=2.

[0076] For example, when retrieving a media set template, the system checks if template name 2201 exists, and the information for one media set template 201 is contained up to the next template name 2201. Until the next template name 2201 is found, the system retrieves the setting media name 2202, the paper feed cassette ID 2203, and the paper feed cassette ID 2203 associated with that paper in that order. When saving data to memory 305, template name 2201 is stored, followed by the setting media name 2202 and the paper feed cassette corresponding to setting media name 2202, stored as a set in order. If the setting media name 2202 can be saved to the end for one template name 2201, the next template name 2201, setting media name 2202, and paper feed cassette ID 2203 are saved in order. However, the method of handling data in Embodiment 1 is just one example; for example, the template name 2201, the setting media name 2202, and the paper feed cassette ID 2203 may be saved as sets on the memory 305.

[0077] In this way, the CPU 702 in S806 retrieves the information from the aforementioned table and other sources from the digital multifunction printer 102 and stores it in memory 703.

[0078] Next, in S807, the CPU 702, having acquired the data for the media set template 201 from the digital multifunction printer 102, displays a screen based on that data on the display device 706 of the client PC 101 as shown in Figure 11(a). Then, in S808, the CPU 702 accepts the user's selection of a media set template.

[0079] In Figure 11(a), "○○○ Company" is selected as the template name. As a result, the "Configuration Media Name" field displays a list of configuration media corresponding to "○○○ Company," based on the table in Figure 19.

[0080] Next, the process proceeds to S809, where the CPU 702 determines whether the OK button 1101 was pressed on this screen. If it is determined that the OK button 1101 was not pressed, the process proceeds to S816, where it determines whether the Cancel button 1102 was pressed. If it is determined that the Cancel button 1102 was pressed, the process returns to S803. On the other hand, if it is determined that the Cancel button 1102 was not pressed, the process returns to S809. Figure 11(a) shows the case where "○○○ Company" is selected as the identifier. Depending on the selection of "○○○ Company", the CPU 702 searches for the options associated with "○○○ Company" from a table as shown in Figure 22. Then, as shown in Figure 11(a), the associated options are displayed. In this way, the displayed options change according to the user's selection, making it easy for the user to identify the options associated with the identifier, and enabling efficient configuration work.

[0081] In S809, if it is determined that the OK button 1101 was pressed, the process proceeds to S810, where the CPU 702 displays the paper cassette selection window shown in Figure 11(b). The user selects which paper cassette to load which recording medium into on the paper cassette selection window shown in Figure 11(b). Then, the process proceeds to S811, where the CPU 702 determines whether the OK button 1103 was pressed on the paper cassette selection window shown in Figure 11(b). If it was not pressed, the process proceeds to S817, where it determines whether the Cancel button 1104 was pressed. If the Cancel button 1104 was not pressed, the process returns to S811. However, if it is determined that the Cancel button 1104 was pressed, the process returns to S803.

[0082] In S811, the CPU 702 determines that the user has completed the operation of setting the recording medium in the paper cassette and pressed the OK button 1103, and proceeds to S812, where it displays the paper cassette setting window, for example, as shown in Figure 11(c). The digital multifunction printer 102 recognizes that each recording medium is set in its respective paper cassette, as shown in this paper cassette setting window. In other words, the operator needs to set each recording medium in its respective paper cassette, as shown in this paper cassette setting window.

[0083] Next, in S813, the CPU 702 determines whether the print start button 1105 has been pressed on the paper feed cassette setting window. If it is determined that the print start button 1105 has been pressed, the process proceeds to S814, where the above settings are added to the image data to be printed and sent to the digital multifunction printer 102. On the other hand, if it is determined in S813 that the print start button 1105 has not been pressed, the process proceeds to S818, where it is determined whether the cancel button 1106 has been pressed. If it is determined that the cancel button 1106 has been pressed, the process returns to S803. On the other hand, if it is determined in S818 that the cancel button 1106 has not been pressed, the process returns to S813.

[0084] Thus, in S814, the CPU 702 terminates this process once the transmission of image data is complete. This allows the digital multifunction printer 102 to recognize what kind of recording medium the operator has placed in each paper cassette. Then, based on the print conditions set on the print settings screen in Figure 9, it selects the paper cassette based on the above settings and performs the print output.

[0085] Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating the paper setting process by the client PC 101 according to Embodiment 1. The process shown in this flowchart is achieved by the CPU 702 of the client PC 101 executing a program stored in memory 703. This process may also be executed when the OK button 1101 is pressed in S809 in Figure 8. The restriction information corresponding to each paper feed cassette described below is assumed to be obtained when the media set template is acquired from the digital multifunction printer 102 in S806.

[0086] In S1201, the CPU 702 determines whether the selected paper size falls within the size limits of the selected paper cassette. If it determines that the size limit is met, the process proceeds to S1206. In S1206, the CPU 702 controls the display to show a warning screen on the display device 706 and then terminates this process.

[0087] In Embodiment 1, the limitation on the size of the paper feed cassette refers to, for example, a situation where the paper feed cassette is fixed in place by screws, and can only accommodate A4-sized paper, and an attempt is made to set paper of a size other than A4. Alternatively, if the paper is placed in the paper feed cassette in a different orientation than the paper used for printing, the image must be rotated during printing, but the paper feed cassette is not capable of rotating the paper before feeding, then this limitation is considered to apply.

[0088] If S1201 determines that the paper does not meet the size limitations of the paper cassette, the process proceeds to S1202, where the CPU 702 determines whether the basis weight of the selected paper is within the basis weight limit of the selected paper cassette. If the CPU 702 determines in S1202 that the paper is outside the basis weight limit of the paper cassette, the process proceeds to S1206, displays a warning screen, and terminates. For example, if thick paper is selected for a paper cassette that is only designed for plain paper, the CPU will determine that it does not fall within the basis weight range of the selected paper cassette and will display a warning.

[0089] If the CPU 702 determines in S1202 that the paper weight is within the weight limit of the paper cassette, the process proceeds to S1203, where the CPU 702 determines whether the selected paper's feeding direction restriction corresponds to the paper cassette's feeding direction restriction. If the CPU 702 determines in S1203 that it corresponds to the selected paper cassette's feeding direction restriction, the process proceeds to S1206, displays a warning, and terminates. A paper feeding direction restriction refers to the fact that, for example, if high-weight paper such as thick paper is fed in reverse, it is more likely that the paper will not be fed properly, causing a jam or bending. Therefore, in such cases, the paper feeding direction must be straight. On the other hand, considering double-sided printing, there are cases where feeding in reverse can result in faster printing. Paper feeding direction refers to whether the paper is fed in reverse or straight without reversing. For example, for paper that should not be bent, such as thick paper or envelopes, the paper feeding direction must be restricted to a straight feeding direction. In Embodiment 1, this type of restriction is referred to as a restriction on the paper feeding direction.

[0090] In S1203, the CPU 702 determines that the paper feed cassette does not fall under the paper feeding direction restriction, and proceeds to S1204 to determine if the selected paper feed cassette is reserved. If it is determined in S1204 that it is reserved, it proceeds to S1206 to display a warning screen and terminates the process. If it is determined in S1204 that it is not reserved, it proceeds to S1205, and the CPU 702 determines if the selected paper feed cassette falls under the restriction of being a paper feed cassette for a specific type of paper. If it is determined in S1205 that it is a dedicated cassette for a specific type of paper, it proceeds to S1206 to display a warning and terminate the process. Specific types of paper include, for example, envelopes, tab paper, postcards, photographs, and label paper. For envelopes, it is possible to add a special guide inside the paper feed cassette to ensure that only envelopes can be inserted. Paper feed cassettes that can only accommodate such specific types of paper are considered to be dedicated cassettes for specific types of paper. If S1205 determines that the paper cassette is not dedicated to a specific type of paper, the process proceeds to S1207, where CPU702 sets the selected paper to the selected paper cassette and proceeds to S1208. In S1208, CPU702 determines if there are any other paper types and paper cassettes that have been specified for setting. In S1208, if there are any paper types and paper cassettes that have not yet been checked, CPU702 sets the next paper type in the media set template as the selected paper type. Then, setting the next paper cassette as the selected paper cassette, the process proceeds to S1201 and executes the process in the same manner as described above. In S1208, CPU702 terminates this process once all the above checks for the paper types and paper cassettes included in the media set template have been completed.

[0091] This process determines whether the selected paper can be set in the paper cassette. If it can, the selected paper is set in that paper cassette. If the determination result indicates that it cannot be set, a warning screen is displayed to notify the user that it cannot be set.

[0092] Next, we will explain how to obtain the information needed to determine the limitations of the paper feed cassette mentioned above.

[0093] Figure 20 shows an example of a table summarizing the limitations of each paper feed cassette according to Embodiment 1.

[0094] Here, attribute ID 2002 and attribute value 2003 are registered in association with each paper cassette ID 2001. For example, the paper cassette ID 2001 for paper cassette 1 is "1". Attribute ID 2002 is assigned to each attribute (size, basis weight range, paper feeding method, reservation status, special paper setting) used in S1202 to S1205 to determine whether or not the paper cassette is subject to limitations. For example, the attribute ID for size is "1". Next, attribute value 2003 will be explained. Attribute value 2003 summarizes the information set for the paper cassette. This attribute value is linked to paper cassette ID 2001 and attribute ID 2002. For example, let's explain an example of checking for basis weight limitations in S1202. Suppose we check the limitations when the selected paper cassette in S1202 is paper cassette 1. Attribute value 3 of attribute ID "2" for paper cassette ID "1" is "Basis weight range: 81~200gsm". This attribute value "Basis weight range: 81~200gsm" is used to determine if the basis weight of the selected paper is within the limit. S1203~S1205 are obtained in the same way as S1202. Figure 21 shows how the contents of the table managed in Figure 20 are managed.

[0095] Figure 21 shows an example of a table for managing information about the paper feed cassette according to Embodiment 1.

[0096] Figure 21(a) corresponds to the paper cassette ID 2001, attribute ID 2002, and attribute value 2003 in Figure 20. Figure 21(b) corresponds to Figure 20 and stores a list of the values ​​for the paper cassette ID, attribute ID, and attribute value.

[0097] Figure 18(a) shows an example of a warning screen displayed in S1206.

[0098] This warning screen indicates that the selected paper type cannot be set for the selected paper cassette (paper feed tray).

[0099] However, the displayed screen does not have to be a warning screen. For example, it could be displayed as a message on the paper settings screen. The point is that it can be a display or warning sound that allows the user to realize that the selected paper cannot be set in the selected paper cassette.

[0100] As described above, Embodiment 1 has the effect of making it easy to determine whether the paper feed cassette is one that cannot accept the selected paper when setting the selected paper in the paper feed cassette.

[0101] [Embodiment 2] In the above embodiment 1, when setting paper to multiple paper feed cassettes, if the paper cannot be set to a particular paper feed cassette due to its size, basis weight, etc., the user can be notified that the paper cannot be set to that paper feed cassette.

[0102] However, in Embodiment 1, the user can be notified that the paper cannot be set to the target paper cassette. However, if there is a mix of configurable and configurable paper, depending on the timing, the process may end without being able to set the paper to a configurable paper cassette. Therefore, Embodiment 2 describes a method in which only configurable paper is set to the paper cassette, and configurable paper is not set to the paper cassette. Note that the system configuration and hardware configuration of each device in Embodiment 2 are the same as in Embodiment 1 described above, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0103] Figure 13 is a flowchart illustrating the paper setting process by the client PC 101 according to Embodiment 2. The process shown in this flowchart is achieved by the CPU 702 of the client PC 101 executing a program stored in memory 703. In Figure 13, the processes S1301 to S1305, S1307, and S1308 are the same as the processes S1201 to S1205, S1207, and S1208 in Figure 12, so their explanations are omitted. This process may also be executed when the OK button 1101 is pressed at S809 in Figure 8.

[0104] For example, if in S1301 the CPU determines that the selected paper size falls within the size limits of the selected paper cassette, the process proceeds to S1306. In S1306, the CPU 702 determines whether the selected paper is available for another paper cassette and whether that paper cassette is not selected in any other media set template. If the CPU determines that the paper cassette is not selected in any other media set template and that the selected paper is available for that paper cassette, the process proceeds to S1307. In S1307, the CPU 702 sets the selected paper to the selected paper cassette and proceeds to S1308. In S1308, the CPU 702 determines whether there are any other unchecked target papers and paper cassettes. If there are other target papers and paper cassettes, the next paper is selected. Then, the next paper cassette is selected, and the process is executed again from S1301. In S1308, if the verification of all paper types and all paper cassettes has been completed, this process will be terminated.

[0105] In addition, in S1302, S1303, S1304, and S1305, the same determination is made as in Embodiment 1 described above. If it is determined that the setting cannot be made, the process proceeds to S1306 and the aforementioned process is executed. The explanation of these processes is omitted. An example of the paper feed cassette limitations described above is as explained in Figure 20 above.

[0106] As a concrete example of S1306, let's explain an example of determining whether "Binding Paper B1" in the "Binding Set" in Figure 22 can be assigned to a paper cassette other than paper cassette 2. Here, we obtain the setting media name 2202, and from the media information in the management table of the obtained recording medium (Figure 24), we can see that "Binding Paper B1" has a basis weight of 81gsm, no paper feeding method specified, and a size of A4. Referring to the table in Figure 20 based on this, for example, if the paper cassette ID is "2", the size is fixed as an envelope, so it cannot be set according to the settings of the media set template 201. Therefore, let's check the case where the paper cassette ID is "1". In the paper cassette with paper cassette ID "1", "Binding Paper B1" can be set with size (A4), basis weight (81gsm~200gsm), and paper feeding method (not specified), so we can determine that the paper can be set in the paper cassette with paper cassette ID "1".

[0107] Next, we check the table in Figure 22 to see if the corresponding paper cassette is selected in any other media set template, which is another condition. In the "Binding Set," paper cassette ID "1" is already assigned to "Kenaf Kent," so no assignment is made to paper cassette ID "1." According to the examples in Figures 20 and 22, the "Binding Paper BI" in the "Binding Set" cannot be assigned to any of the paper cassettes 1 through 4. Therefore, we should set the next selected paper to "COP Plain Paper," set the next selected paper cassette to "3," and then check in order from S1301.

[0108] This process determines whether the selected paper can be set in the paper cassette. If the result indicates that it cannot be set, it then determines whether other paper cassettes among the multiple paper cassettes can be set. If other paper cassettes can be set and no other templates are selected, the selected paper can be set in the other paper cassette that was determined to be set.

[0109] As described above, according to Embodiment 2, when setting the selected paper to multiple paper feed cassettes, the paper will not be set to any paper feed cassettes that cannot be set, and if there is a paper feed cassette that can be set, the selected paper can be set to that paper feed cassette.

[0110] [Embodiment 3] In Embodiment 2 described above, paper that cannot be configured is not set in the paper cassette, and only paper that can be configured is set in the paper cassette. However, it becomes difficult for the user to notice which paper cassette cannot be configured for the selected paper. Therefore, Embodiment 3 describes an example in which, if there is paper that cannot be configured, the user is notified all at once, and the paper that can be configured is set in the paper cassette. Note that the system configuration and hardware configuration of each device in Embodiment 3 are the same as in Embodiment 1 described above, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0111] Figure 14 is a flowchart illustrating the paper setting process by the client PC according to Embodiment 3. The process shown in this flowchart is achieved by the CPU 702 of the client PC 101 executing a program stored in memory 703. In Figure 14, the processes S1401 to S1405 are the same as the processes S1201 to S1205 in Figure 12, so the explanation of those processes is omitted. Note that this process may also be executed when the OK button 1101 is pressed at S809 in Figure 8.

[0112] In S1406, CPU702 determines whether the selected paper can be assigned to another paper cassette and whether that paper cassette is not selected in any other media set template. If it determines that the paper is not specified in any other media set template and can be assigned to another paper cassette, the process proceeds to S1407, where CPU702 sets the selected paper to another available paper cassette and proceeds to S1408.

[0113] On the other hand, if S1406 determines that the paper cannot be assigned to another cassette, or that the paper feed cassette is specified in another media set template, the process proceeds to S1409. In S1409, the CPU 702 saves the paper feed cassette number for displaying a warning to memory 703 and proceeds to S1408. In S1408, the CPU 702 determines whether any other paper and paper feed cassettes are specified for paper setting, that is, whether all paper settings have been completed. If it determines that all paper settings have been completed, the process proceeds to S1410; otherwise, the next paper is set to the selected paper, the next paper feed cassette is set to the selected paper feed cassette, and the process is executed again from S1401.

[0114] This section explains how to obtain information when determining the limitations of each paper cassette. Refer to the table in Figure 20, which summarizes the limitations of each paper cassette, for explanation. For example, if paper cassette 1 is selected, the paper cassette ID will be "1". Attribute IDs are assigned to each attribute (size, basis weight range, paper feeding method, reservation status, special paper setting) used to determine whether there are limitations in S1402 to S1405. For example, the attribute ID for size is "1". Next, the attribute values ​​will be explained. Attribute values ​​summarize the information set for each paper cassette. These attribute values ​​are linked to the paper cassette ID and attribute ID, and an example of checking for basis weight limitations in S1402 will be explained. For example, suppose we check the limitations when the selected cassette in S1402 is paper cassette 1. The attribute value for attribute ID "2" of paper cassette ID "1" is "basis weight range: 81~200gsm". Using the attribute value "Basis weight range: 81~200gsm", the basis weight of the selected paper is within the limit. In S1410, the CPU 702 determines if the number of a paper cassette that requires a warning exists in memory 703. If it determines in S1410 that there is a paper cassette that requires a warning, the process proceeds to S1411, where the CPU 702 displays a warning for all the paper cassette numbers stored in memory 703 and proceeds to S1412. Figure 18(b) shows an example of the warning screen at this time. In S1412, the CPU 702 deletes the paper cassette numbers stored in memory 703 and terminates this process. If there are no paper cassettes that require a warning in S1410, the process terminates.

[0115] Next, we will explain a specific example of the judgment process in S1406.

[0116] In S1406, we will explain how to determine if the selected paper can be assigned to another cassette. This determination is made based, for example, on the information of media name 2202 in media set template 201 in Figure 22 and the table in Figure 22 that summarizes the information of each paper feed cassette.

[0117] For example, let's consider a case where we need to determine if "Binding Paper B1" in the "Binding Set" can be assigned to a paper cassette other than paper cassette 2. We obtain the setting media name 2202 in Figure 22, and from the media information of the obtained setting media (Figure 24), we obtain the basis weight, paper feeding method, size, etc. "Binding Paper B1" has a basis weight of 81gsm, no paper feeding method specified, and a size of A4. According to Figure 20, if the paper cassette ID is "2", the size is fixed as an envelope, so it cannot be set according to the settings of media set template 201. Therefore, we check, for example, paper cassette ID "1" in Figure 20. The attribute values ​​of paper cassette ID "1", such as size, basis weight, and paper feeding method, match the size, basis weight, and paper feeding method of "Binding Paper B1", and do not fall under any restrictions, so the paper cassette with paper cassette ID "1" can be assigned.

[0118] Next, we check the table in Figure 22 to see if the corresponding paper cassette is already selected in any other media set template, which is another condition. In the "Binding Set," "Kenaf Kent" is already selected for paper cassette ID "1," so it cannot be assigned to paper cassette ID "1." Thus, as shown in the examples in Figures 20 and 22, "Binding Paper B1" in the "Binding Set" cannot be assigned to any of the paper cassettes 1 through 4. In this case, we set the next paper, "COP Plain Paper," to the selected paper, set the next selected paper cassette to "3," and check sequentially starting from S1401.

[0119] This process achieves the same effect as the process shown in the flowchart of Figure 13. Furthermore, this process determines whether the selected paper can be loaded into the paper cassette, and if it cannot, it stores the information of that paper cassette. Finally, by displaying the stored information of the paper cassette, the user can identify which paper cassettes cannot be loaded with the selected paper.

[0120] As described above, according to Embodiment 3, if there are any paper types that cannot be configured, the user will be notified collectively, and the configurable paper types can be set in the paper cassette.

[0121] [Embodiment 4] In Embodiment 3 described above, if there are any paper types that cannot be configured, the user is notified collectively, and the configurable paper types can be configured in the paper cassette. However, in the configuration of Embodiment 3, it is difficult to notice which of the multiple paper cassettes has had its settings changed. Therefore, Embodiment 4 describes a method in which only the paper types that can be configured using the method of Embodiment 3 are configured in the paper cassette, and the user is notified of which paper cassette's settings have been updated. Note that the system configuration and hardware configuration of each device in Embodiment 4 are the same as those in Embodiment 1 described above, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0122] Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating the paper setting process by the client PC according to Embodiment 4. The process shown in this flowchart is achieved by the CPU 702 of the client PC 101 executing a program stored in memory 703. In Figure 15, the processes S1501 to S1512 are the same as the processes S1401 to S1412 in Figure 14, so the explanation of those processes is omitted. Note that this process may also be executed when the OK button 1101 is pressed at S809 in Figure 8.

[0123] In S1507, CPU702 sets the selected paper into the paper cassette and proceeds to S1513. In S1513, CPU702 highlights the paper cassette and proceeds to S1508.

[0124] This process achieves the same effect as the process shown in the flowchart of Figure 14. Furthermore, this process allows the user to identify which paper cassette is loaded with the selected paper by displaying it in an identifiable manner.

[0125] As a result, according to Embodiment 4, while setting only the paper types that can be set using the method of Embodiment 3 into the paper cassette, it becomes possible to identify which paper cassette the selected paper type has been set into and notify the user.

[0126] [Embodiment 5] In Embodiment 4 described above, only paper types that can be set using the method of Embodiment 3 can be set in the paper feed cassette, and the user can be notified which paper feed cassette has been set. However, the method of Embodiment 4 does not take into account the case where the paper feed cassette to be set already has paper set in it. Therefore, Embodiment 5 describes a method that uses the method of Embodiment 4 to notify the user that the paper feed cassette is already set without performing any additional settings for paper feed cassettes that have already been set, and notifies the user which paper feed cassette is the target paper feed cassette. Note that the system configuration and hardware configuration of each device in Embodiment 5 are the same as those of Embodiment 1 described above, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0127] Figure 16 is a flowchart illustrating the paper setting process by the client PC according to Embodiment 5. The process shown in this flowchart is achieved by the CPU 702 of the client PC 101 executing a program stored in memory 703. In Figure 16, the processes S1601 to S1613 are the same as the processes S1501 to S1513 in Figure 15, so the explanation of those processes is omitted. Note that this process may also be executed when the OK button 1101 is pressed at S809 in Figure 8.

[0128] If the process from S1601 to S1605 determines that the selected paper cassette does not meet the restrictions, the process proceeds to S1614, where the CPU 702 determines whether the selected paper is already set in the selected paper cassette. If it determines that it is already set, the process proceeds to S1613 without setting the paper in S1607, highlighting the selected paper cassette and proceeding to S1609. If it determines in S1614 that it is not already set, the process proceeds to S1607, where the selected paper is set in the selected paper cassette.

[0129] This process achieves the same effect as the process shown in the flowchart of Figure 15. Furthermore, if a paper feed cassette is already configured, this process allows the user to identify which paper feed cassette is already configured without requiring any additional configuration, by clearly indicating that the paper feed cassette is already configured.

[0130] As described above, according to Embodiment 5, if there is a paper feed cassette that has already been configured using the method of Embodiment 3, it is possible to notify the user that the paper feed cassette is already configured without performing any additional settings, and to notify the user which paper feed cassette is the target paper feed cassette.

[0131] [Embodiment 6] In Embodiment 5, using the method of Embodiment 4, if a paper feed cassette is already configured, the system can notify the user that a paper feed cassette is already configured without performing any further configuration, and allow the user to confirm which paper feed cassette is the target. However, paper feed cassettes that have not been selected are not considered.

[0132] Therefore, Embodiment 6 describes an example of deselecting a paper feed cassette when setting paper size using the method of Embodiment 5, for paper feed cassettes that have not been selected. Note that the system configuration and hardware configuration of each device in Embodiment 6 are the same as those of Embodiment 1 described above, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0133] Figure 17 is a flowchart illustrating the paper setting process by the client PC according to Embodiment 6. The process shown in this flowchart is achieved by the CPU 702 of the client PC 101 executing a program stored in memory 703. In Figure 17, the processes S1701 to S1714 are the same as the processes S1601 to S1614 in Figure 16, so the explanation of those processes is omitted. Note that this process may also be executed when the OK button 1101 is pressed at S809 in Figure 8.

[0134] First, in S1715, the CPU 702 determines whether the paper cassettes included in the media set template exist, starting from paper cassette 1. If the determination in S1715 determines that a paper cassette does not exist, the process proceeds to S1716, where the CPU 702 clears the paper setting for the target paper cassette. The method for clearing the paper setting is not limited to this embodiment 6; for example, it may be returned to the default setting or set to "Unknown". After clearing the paper setting for the target paper cassette in S1716, the process proceeds to S1717, where it determines whether the check has been completed for all paper cassettes, and if so, it proceeds to S1701. If the determination in S1717 is that the check has not been completed for all paper cassettes, the process is executed again from S1715.

[0135] This process achieves the same effect as the process shown in the flowchart of Figure 16. Furthermore, this process allows you to set paper only for the paper cassettes included in the media set template by deselecting the paper settings for paper cassettes not included in the media set template.

[0136] As described above, according to Embodiment 6, when setting paper size using the method of Embodiment 5, it is possible to cancel the paper feed cassette setting for any paper feed cassette that has not been selected.

[0137] (Other embodiments) The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that implements one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and by having one or more processors in the computer of that system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., an ASIC) that implements one or more functions.

[0138] This specification and drawings disclose the following printing system, information processing device and its control method, and program.

[0139] <Item 1> A printing system having an image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus, The aforementioned information processing device is A means of selecting a recording medium, If the image forming apparatus has a plurality of paper feeding units, a control means controls the apparatus to perform a predetermined display based on the fact that there is a paper feeding unit among the plurality of paper feeding units in which the recording medium cannot be set, A printing system characterized by having the following features.

[0140] <Item 2> The printing system according to item 1, further characterized in that, when the control means determines that there is a paper feed unit among the plurality of paper feed units in which the recording medium can be set, the recording medium is set in the paper feed unit that has been determined to be capable of setting the recording medium.

[0141] <Item 3> The printing system according to item 1 or 2, further characterized in that the control means is controlled to store and display information of a paper feed unit that cannot set the recording medium selected by the selection means.

[0142] <Item 4> The printing system according to any one of items 1 to 3, further characterized in that, when the control means determines that there is a paper feed unit among the plurality of paper feed units that can set the recording medium, it displays the paper feed unit that it has determined to be able to set the recording medium in an identifiable manner.

[0143] <Item 5> The control means is If there is a paper feeding unit among the plurality of paper feeding units in which the recording medium can be set, a determination means for determining whether the recording medium has already been set in that paper feeding unit, When the determination means determines that the setting is complete, the paper feed unit is displayed in an identifiable manner. The printing system according to any one of items 1 to 4, characterized in that if the determination means determines that the setting has not been made, the recording medium is controlled to set the paper feed unit.

[0144] <Item 6> The printing system according to any one of items 1 to 5, characterized in that the control means releases the setting of a recording medium for a paper feed unit that is not included in the media set template obtained from the image forming apparatus.

[0145] <Item 7> The aforementioned information processing device is The selection means displays a print settings screen for selecting a recording medium on a display device, The system includes an acquisition means for acquiring information about the multiple paper feeding units from the image forming apparatus in response to instructions via the print settings screen, The printing system according to any one of items 1 to 6, characterized in that the control means determines, based on the information, whether there is a paper feeding unit among the plurality of paper feeding units that cannot set the recording medium.

[0146] <Item 8> A printing system having an image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus, The aforementioned information processing device is An acquisition means for acquiring a template from the image forming apparatus that associates multiple recording media with a single identifier, A selection means for selecting a recording medium from a plurality of recording media corresponding to the selected identifier included in the template, A determination means for determining whether the recording medium selected by the selection means can be set in the paper feeding section of the image forming apparatus, A control means that controls the display to be performed based on the determination result of the determination means, A printing system characterized by having the following features.

[0147] <Item 9> The printing system according to item 8, characterized in that the determination means determines whether the size of the selected recording medium fits the paper feed unit, whether the basis weight of the selected recording medium fits the paper feed unit, whether the paper feeding direction of the selected recording medium fits the paper feed unit, or whether the paper feed unit is selected with another template.

[0148] <Item 10> The printing system according to item 8 or 9, further characterized in that the control means sets the recording medium in the paper feed unit when the determination means determines that the recording medium can be set in the paper feed unit.

[0149] <Item 11> The printing system according to any one of items 8 to 10, further characterized in that the control means controls the paper feed unit to store and display information about the paper feed unit when the determination means determines that the recording medium cannot be set in the paper feed unit.

[0150] <Item 12> The image forming apparatus has a plurality of paper feeding sections, The printing system according to any one of items 8 to 11, characterized in that, if the determination means determines that there is a paper feed unit among the plurality of paper feed units in which the recording medium can be set, the control means displays the paper feed unit that it has determined to be able to set the recording medium in an identifiable manner.

[0151] <Item 13> If the determination means determines that there is a paper feed unit among the plurality of paper feed units in which the recording medium can be set, it determines whether the recording medium has already been set in that paper feed unit. When the determination means determines that the setting is complete, the control means displays the paper feeding unit in an identifiable manner. The printing system according to item 12, characterized in that, if the determination means determines that it is not set, the control means controls the recording medium to set the paper feed unit.

[0152] <Item 14> An information processing device that sends a print job to an image forming apparatus and causes it to print, A means of selecting a recording medium, If the image forming apparatus has a plurality of paper feeding units, a control means controls the apparatus to perform a predetermined display based on the fact that there is a paper feeding unit among the plurality of paper feeding units in which the recording medium cannot be set, An information processing device characterized by having the following features.

[0153] <Item 15> The information processing apparatus according to item 14, characterized in that, when the control means determines that there is a paper feed unit among the plurality of paper feed units in which the recording medium can be set, the recording medium is set in the paper feed unit that has been determined to be capable of setting the recording medium.

[0154] <Item 16> The information processing apparatus according to item 14 or 15, further characterized in that the control means controls the paper feed unit to store and display information of the paper feed unit for which the recording medium selected by the selection means cannot be set.

[0155] <Item 17> The information processing apparatus according to any one of items 14 to 16, further characterized in that, when the control means determines that there is a paper feed unit among the plurality of paper feed units in which the recording medium can be set, it displays the paper feed unit that it has determined to be capable of setting the recording medium in an identifiable manner.

[0156] <Item 18> The control means is If there is a paper feeding unit among the plurality of paper feeding units in which the recording medium can be set, a determination means for determining whether the recording medium has already been set in that paper feeding unit, When the determination means determines that the setting is complete, the paper feed unit is displayed in an identifiable manner. The information processing apparatus according to any one of items 14 to 17, characterized in that, if the determination means determines that it has not been set, the recording medium is controlled to set the paper feed unit.

[0157] <Item 19> The information processing apparatus according to any one of items 14 to 18, characterized in that the control means releases a recording medium for the paper feed unit that is not included in the media set template obtained from the image forming apparatus.

[0158] <Item 20> The selection means displays a print settings screen for selecting a recording medium on a display device, The system includes an acquisition means for acquiring information about the multiple paper feeding units from the image forming apparatus in response to instructions via the print settings screen, The information processing apparatus according to any one of items 14 to 19, characterized in that the control means determines, based on the information, whether there is a paper feeding unit among the plurality of paper feeding units that cannot set the recording medium.

[0159] <Item 21> A control method for controlling an information processing device that sends a print job to an image forming apparatus and causes it to print, The selection method includes a selection process in which the user selects a recording medium, A control means includes a control step of controlling the image forming apparatus to perform a predetermined display based on the fact that, when the image forming apparatus has a plurality of paper feeding units, there is a paper feeding unit among the plurality of paper feeding units that cannot hold the recording medium, A control method characterized by having the following features.

[0160] <Item 22> A program characterized by causing a computer to execute all of the steps of the control method described in item 21.

[0161] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the following claims are attached to make the scope of the invention public. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0162] 101…Client PC, 102…Digital Multifunction Printer, 201…Media Set Template, 702…CPU, 703…Memory, 706…Display Device

Claims

1. A printing system having an image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus, The aforementioned information processing device is A means of selecting a recording medium, If the image forming apparatus has a plurality of paper feeding units, a control means controls the apparatus to perform a predetermined display based on the fact that there is a paper feeding unit among the plurality of paper feeding units in which the recording medium cannot be set, A printing system characterized by having the following features.

2. The printing system according to claim 1, further characterized in that, when the control means determines that there is a paper feed unit among the plurality of paper feed units in which the recording medium can be set, the recording medium is set in the paper feed unit that has been determined to be capable of setting the recording medium.

3. The printing system according to claim 1, further characterized in that the control means is controlled to store and display information of a paper feed unit that cannot set the recording medium selected by the selection means.

4. The printing system according to claim 1, further characterized in that, when the control means determines that there is a paper feed unit among the plurality of paper feed units that can set the recording medium, it displays the paper feed unit that it has determined to be capable of setting the recording medium in an identifiable manner.

5. The control means is If, among the plurality of paper feeding units, there is a paper feeding unit in which the recording medium can be set, a determination means for determining whether the recording medium has already been set in that paper feeding unit, When the determination means determines that the setting is complete, the paper feed unit is displayed in an identifiable manner. The printing system according to claim 1, characterized in that if the determination means determines that the setting has not been made, the recording medium is controlled to set the paper feed unit.

6. The printing system according to claim 1, characterized in that the control means releases the setting of a recording medium for a paper feed unit that is not included in the media set template obtained from the image forming apparatus.

7. The aforementioned information processing device is The selection means displays a print settings screen for selecting a recording medium on a display device, The system includes an acquisition means for acquiring information about the multiple paper feeding units from the image forming apparatus in response to instructions via the print settings screen, The printing system according to claim 1, characterized in that the control means determines, based on the information, whether there is a paper feeding unit among the plurality of paper feeding units that cannot set the recording medium.

8. A printing system having an image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus, The aforementioned information processing device is An acquisition means for acquiring a template from the image forming apparatus that associates multiple recording media with a single identifier, A selection means for selecting a recording medium from a plurality of recording media corresponding to the selected identifier included in the template, A determination means for determining whether the recording medium selected by the selection means can be set in the paper feeding section of the image forming apparatus, A control means that controls the display to be performed based on the determination result of the determination means, A printing system characterized by having the following features.

9. The printing system according to claim 8, characterized in that the determination means determines whether the size of the selected recording medium fits the paper feed unit, whether the basis weight of the selected recording medium fits the paper feed unit, whether the paper feeding direction of the selected recording medium fits the paper feed unit, or whether the paper feed unit is selected with another template.

10. The printing system according to claim 8, further characterized in that the control means sets the recording medium in the paper feed unit when the determination means determines that the recording medium can be set in the paper feed unit.

11. The printing system according to claim 8, further characterized in that the control means controls the paper feed unit to store and display information about the paper feed unit when the determination means determines that the recording medium cannot be set in the paper feed unit.

12. The image forming apparatus has multiple paper feeding sections, The printing system according to claim 8, characterized in that, if the determination means determines that there is a paper feed unit among the plurality of paper feed units in which the recording medium can be set, the control means displays the paper feed unit that it has determined to be able to set the recording medium in an identifiable manner.

13. If the determination means determines that there is a paper feed unit among the plurality of paper feed units in which the recording medium can be set, it determines whether the recording medium has already been set in that paper feed unit. When the determination means determines that the setting is complete, the control means displays the paper feeding unit in an identifiable manner. The printing system according to claim 12, characterized in that, if the determination means determines that the setting has not been made, the control means controls the recording medium to set the paper feed unit.

14. An information processing device that sends a print job to an image forming apparatus and causes it to print, A means of selecting a recording medium, If the image forming apparatus has a plurality of paper feeding units, a control means controls the apparatus to perform a predetermined display based on the fact that there is a paper feeding unit among the plurality of paper feeding units in which the recording medium cannot be set, An information processing device characterized by having the following features.

15. The information processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the control means further determines that there is a paper feed unit among the plurality of paper feed units in which the recording medium can be set, and sets the recording medium in the paper feed unit that it has determined to be able to set the recording medium.

16. The information processing apparatus according to claim 14, further characterized in that the control means controls the paper feed unit to store and display information of the paper feed unit for which the recording medium selected by the selection means cannot be set.

17. The information processing apparatus according to claim 14, further characterized in that, when the control means determines that there is a paper feed unit among the plurality of paper feed units in which the recording medium can be set, it displays the paper feed unit that it has determined to be capable of setting the recording medium in an identifiable manner.

18. The control means is If, among the plurality of paper feeding units, there is a paper feeding unit in which the recording medium can be set, a determination means for determining whether the recording medium has already been set in that paper feeding unit, When the determination means determines that the setting is complete, the paper feed unit is displayed in an identifiable manner. The information processing apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that, if the determination means determines that the setting has not been made, the recording medium is controlled to set the paper feeding unit.

19. The information processing apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that the control means releases a recording medium for the paper feed unit that is not included in the media set template obtained from the image forming apparatus.

20. The selection means displays a print settings screen for selecting a recording medium on a display device, The system includes an acquisition means for acquiring information about the multiple paper feeding units from the image forming apparatus in response to instructions via the print settings screen, The information processing apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that the control means determines, based on the information, whether there is a paper feeding unit among the plurality of paper feeding units that cannot set the recording medium.

21. A control method for controlling an information processing device that sends a print job to an image forming apparatus and causes it to print, The selection method includes a selection process in which the user selects a recording medium, A control means includes a control step of controlling the image forming apparatus to perform a predetermined display based on the fact that, when the image forming apparatus has a plurality of paper feeding units, there is a paper feeding unit among the plurality of paper feeding units that cannot hold the recording medium, A control method characterized by having the following features.

22. A program characterized by causing a computer to execute all of the steps of the control method described in claim 21.

Images