First image forming apparatus, second image forming apparatus, and processing method

Abstract

This helps to prevent any loss of convenience for users. [Solution] The first image forming apparatus comprises a print data acquisition unit, a modification unit, and a print data transmission unit. The print data acquisition unit acquires print data from a terminal device that includes either first band data, which is divided with the first direction of the print target as the longitudinal direction, or second band data, which is divided with the second direction intersecting the first direction of the print target as the longitudinal direction. The modification unit performs a modification process on the longitudinal direction of the band data in the acquired print data. The print data transmission unit transmits the print data, which has undergone the modification process on the longitudinal direction of the band data, to the second image forming apparatus.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a first image forming apparatus, a second image forming apparatus, and a processing method. [Background Art]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a printing system. In the system according to Patent Document 1, a print instruction apparatus transmits data relating to a print target document to a document storage apparatus. A user selects a print output apparatus that is to perform print output from among a plurality of image forming apparatuses. Then, after a user authentication operation using an operation input unit or the like of the print output apparatus, print data is acquired from the document storage apparatus, and print output is performed by the print output apparatus. [Prior Art Literature] [Patent Literature]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2018-190146 [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be Solved by the Invention]

[0004] With the technology according to Patent Document 1, when a print output apparatus acquires print data from a document storage apparatus, there is a risk that an appropriate print result cannot be obtained. Accordingly, there is a risk that convenience may decrease. [Means for Solving the Problem]

[0005] The first image forming apparatus according to this disclosure includes: a print data acquisition unit that acquires print data from a terminal device, which includes either first band data, which is band data delimited with the first direction of the print target as the longitudinal direction, or second band data, which is band data delimited with the second direction intersecting the first direction of the print target as the longitudinal direction; a modification unit that performs a modification process on the longitudinal direction of the band data in the acquired print data; and a print data transmission unit that transmits the print data, on which the longitudinal direction of the band data has been modified, to a second image forming apparatus.

[0006] The second image forming apparatus according to this disclosure includes an authentication unit that performs user authentication, a print data acquisition unit that acquires print data from a first image forming apparatus that has acquired print data from a terminal device or from a terminal device that has transmitted print data to the first image forming apparatus if authentication is successful, and a printing unit that prints the acquired print data, wherein the print data acquired by the print data acquisition unit is modified in the longitudinal direction of the band data in which the print target is separated, based on the longitudinal direction of the band data corresponding to the second image forming apparatus.

[0007] The processing method according to this disclosure is a processing method performed by a first image forming apparatus, which acquires print data from a terminal device that includes either first band data, which is band data delimited with the first direction of the print target as the longitudinal direction, or second band data, which is band data delimited with the second direction intersecting the first direction of the print target as the longitudinal direction, performs a process to change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the acquired print data, and transmits the print data with the longitudinal direction of the band data changed to a second image forming apparatus. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a diagram showing the processing system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] This diagram illustrates the overview of the processing performed in the processing system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3]This figure illustrates print original data and print data according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example in which the image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 processes first band data to form an image on a printing medium. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example in which the image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 processes second band data to form an image on a printing medium. [Figure 6] This is a diagram illustrating the modification function according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] This diagram shows the configuration of the terminal device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] This figure shows the configuration of the first image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 9] This figure shows the configuration of the second image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 10] This figure shows the processing performed by the processing system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 11] This figure shows the processing performed by the processing system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 12] This figure illustrates the differences between the comparative example and Embodiment 1. [Figure 13] This figure illustrates the differences between the comparative example and Embodiment 1. [Figure 14] This figure illustrates the differences between the comparative example and Embodiment 1. [Figure 15] This figure illustrates the differences between the comparative example and Embodiment 1. [Figure 16] This diagram shows the configuration of the terminal device according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 17] This figure shows the configuration of the second image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 18] This figure shows the processing performed by the processing system according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 19] This figure shows the configuration of the first image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 20]It is a diagram illustrating an example of a model table according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 21] It is a diagram showing processing executed in the processing system according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 22] It is a diagram showing the configuration of a first image forming apparatus according to a first modification of Embodiment 3. [Figure 23] It is a diagram illustrating an example of a slave device table according to the first modification of Embodiment 3. [Figure 24] It is a diagram showing the configuration of a first image forming apparatus according to a second modification of Embodiment 3. [Figure 25] It is a diagram illustrating an example of a change history according to the second modification of Embodiment 3. MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0009] (Embodiment 1) Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. For the sake of clarity of explanation, the following description and drawings are omitted and simplified as appropriate. Also, in each drawing, the same elements are denoted by the same reference symbols, and duplicate descriptions are omitted as necessary.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a processing system 1 according to Embodiment 1. The processing system 1 includes one or more terminal devices 10, a first image forming apparatus 100, and one or more second image forming apparatuses 200. The terminal device 10, the first image forming apparatus 100, and the second image forming apparatus 200 are communicably connected to each other via a wired or wireless network 2. The network 2 may be, for example, a LAN such as a wired LAN (Local Area Network) or a wireless LAN, or may be the Internet.

[0011] Terminal device 10 functions as a computer, possessing a processor and memory. Terminal device 10 operates using an operating system (OS), which is the basic software. Terminal device 10 is a device used by a user, such as a PC (Personal Computer), smartphone, tablet, or smart device. Terminal device 10 functions as a client PC. Details of terminal device 10 will be described later.

[0012] The first image forming apparatus 100 is, for example, an image forming apparatus such as a printer. Alternatively, the first image forming apparatus 100 may be, for example, a multifunction peripheral (MFP). The first image forming apparatus 100 performs an image forming process, that is, a printing process, which involves forming an image on a printing medium such as paper. The first image forming apparatus 100 functions as a master unit in the processing system 1.

[0013] As shown in Figure 1, the first image forming apparatus 100 has a printing unit 110. The printing unit 110 has a printing function for forming an image on paper, i.e., a printing medium. The printing unit 110 includes a printing engine. The printing engine is a mechanical configuration that performs printing of an image onto the printing medium. The printing engine may have, for example, a mechanism that performs printing using toner in an electrophotographic manner. Alternatively, the printing engine may have, for example, a mechanism that performs printing in an inkjet manner. The printing unit 110 forms an image corresponding to the print target in the print data on the printing medium stored in the paper feed tray, and transports the print medium with the formed image to the output tray.

[0014] The printing unit 110 includes at least a transport mechanism 112 and a printing mechanism 114. The transport mechanism 112 transports a printing medium such as paper. The printing mechanism 114 performs operations to form an image to be printed on the printing medium. Other components of the first image forming apparatus 100 will be described later.

[0015] The second image forming apparatus 200 is, for example, an image forming apparatus such as a printer. Alternatively, the second image forming apparatus 200 may be, for example, a multifunction printer (MFP). The second image forming apparatus 200 performs an image forming process, that is, a printing process, which involves forming an image on a printing medium such as paper. The second image forming apparatus 200 functions as a slave unit in the processing system 1.

[0016] As shown in Figure 1, the second image forming apparatus 200 has a printing unit 210. The printing unit 210 has a printing function for forming an image on paper, i.e., a printing medium. The printing unit 210 includes a printing engine. The printing engine is a mechanical component that performs printing of an image onto the printing medium. The printing engine may have, for example, a mechanism that performs printing using toner in an electrophotographic manner. Alternatively, the printing engine may have, for example, a mechanism that performs printing in an inkjet manner. The printing unit 210 forms an image on the printing medium stored in the paper feed tray that corresponds to the print target in the print data, and transports the print medium with the formed image to the output tray.

[0017] The printing unit 210 includes at least a transport mechanism 212 and a printing mechanism 214. The transport mechanism 212 transports a printing medium such as paper. The printing mechanism 214 performs operations to form an image to be printed on the printing medium. Other components of the second image forming apparatus 200 will be described later.

[0018] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the overview of the processing performed in the processing system 1 according to Embodiment 1. The terminal device 10 generates print original data based on the operation of user A. Then, as indicated by arrow S1, the terminal device 10 transmits print data PD corresponding to the print original data to the first image forming apparatus 100 based on the operation of user A. The print original data and print data PD represent images that user A wishes to be printed on a printing medium. Furthermore, the print data PD transmitted from the terminal device 10 to the first image forming apparatus 100 is generated to correspond to the printing process in the first image forming apparatus 100. The print data PD will be described later. The first image forming apparatus 100 stores the print data PD received from the terminal device 10. The terminal device 10 may store the print data PD transmitted to the first image forming apparatus 100 using, for example, a spooler.

[0019] When the first image forming apparatus 100 is being used by user B, the first image forming apparatus 100 cannot immediately print the print data PD. Therefore, user A performs a process to enable the second image forming apparatus 200 to print the print data PD. Specifically, user A performs an operation to authenticate user A in the second image forming apparatus 200. As a result, the second image forming apparatus 200 performs the authentication process for user A. If authentication of user A is successful, the second image forming apparatus 200 requests the first image forming apparatus 100 to print the print data PD for user A. At this time, the first image forming apparatus 100 sends a print job list, which is a list of print jobs for user A, to the second image forming apparatus 200. As a result, the print job list for user A is displayed on the operation panel of the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0020] When user A operates the control panel displaying the print job list and selects a print job related to the print data PD, the second image forming apparatus 200 transmits the selection result to the first image forming apparatus 100. Then, as indicated by arrow S2, the first image forming apparatus 100 transmits the print data PD corresponding to the print job indicated in the selection result to the second image forming apparatus 200. The second image forming apparatus 200 performs printing on the acquired print data PD. As a result, the print medium on which the image of the print data PD has been formed is discharged into the output tray.

[0021] Furthermore, if print data PD is stored in the terminal device 10, the terminal device 10 may send the print data PD to the second image forming apparatus 200. Specifically, when user A selects a print job related to the print data PD by operating the control panel displaying the print job list, the second image forming apparatus 200 may send the selection result to the terminal device 10. Then, as shown by arrow S3, the terminal device 10 sends the print data PD corresponding to the print job indicated in the selection result to the second image forming apparatus 200. The second image forming apparatus 200 performs printing on the acquired print data PD. As a result, the print medium on which the image of the print data PD has been formed is discharged into the output tray.

[0022] Print data PD is data that contains multiple band data, which are the units of printing by the print head of the printing mechanism in an image forming apparatus that prints print data PD. In other words, print data PD is composed of multiple band data. The print head has the function of ejecting liquid such as ink onto the printing medium to form an image on the printing medium. Band data indicates a part of the printing target (printing target area) that is formed on the printing medium when the print head moves relative to the printing medium once. In other words, when the print head processes one band data, a printing target area corresponding to that band data is formed on the printing medium. Here, the longitudinal direction is defined as a predetermined direction on the printing target in the band data. This will be explained in detail below.

[0023] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating print original data and print data according to Embodiment 1. The print original data PD0 is generated by an application such as document editing software or image editing software. The print original data may be, for example, data in PDF (Portable Document Format) format. The print original data PD0 is data that indicates the print target PX1. In the example in Figure 3, the print target PX1 in the print original data PD0 indicates the character "A". The print original data PD0 may also be bitmap data obtained by rendering the print target PX1. Here, in the example in Figure 3, the vertical direction of the print target is defined as the first direction D1, and the horizontal direction of the print target is defined as the second direction D2. In other words, the second direction is the direction that intersects with the first direction. Note that "intersecting direction" means, for example, a direction that is orthogonal, but it does not have to be a strictly orthogonal direction. In other words, the second direction does not have to be orthogonal to the first direction.

[0024] Print data PD1 and print data PD2 are generated based on print original data PD0. Print data PD1 and print data PD2 are generated according to the functions of the image forming apparatus that prints the image from print original data PD0. For example, print data PD1 and print data PD2 are generated by a printer driver corresponding to the image forming apparatus that prints the image from print original data PD0. Print data PD1 and print data PD2 each contain multiple band data.

[0025] The print data PD1 contains multiple first band data BD1, which are band data divided along the first direction D1, the vertical direction of the print target PX1. In other words, the print data PD1 is composed of a bundle of multiple first band data BD1. In the print data PD1, the multiple first band data BD1 are arranged along the second direction D2, the horizontal direction of the print target PX1. In other words, in the print data PD1, the first band data BD1 is generated to divide the print target PX1 along the second direction D2. The bandwidth (number of pixels), which is the width of the first band data BD1 in the second direction D2, corresponds to the length of the print head in the second direction D2.

[0026] The print data PD2 contains multiple second band data BD2, which are band data divided along the second direction D2, the horizontal direction of the print target PX1, as the longitudinal direction. In other words, the print data PD2 is composed of a bundle of multiple second band data BD2. In the print data PD2, the multiple second band data BD2 are arranged along the first direction D1, the vertical direction of the print target PX1. That is, in the print data PD2, the second band data BD2 is generated to divide the print target PX1 along the first direction D1. The bandwidth (number of pixels), which is the width of the second band data BD2 in the first direction D1, corresponds to the length of the print head in the first direction D1.

[0027] In the example in Figure 3, the vertical direction of the print target PX1 is conveniently designated as the first direction D1, and the horizontal direction of the print target PX1 is conveniently designated as the second direction D2. However, this embodiment is not limited to this configuration. The first and second directions may be reversed from the example in Figure 3. That is, the horizontal direction of the print target PX1 may be designated as the first direction, and the vertical direction of the print target PX1 may be designated as the second direction. In this case, the first band data is band data with the horizontal direction of the print target PX1 as the longitudinal direction. The second band data is band data with the vertical direction of the print target PX1 as the longitudinal direction. The following describes the case where the first and second band data are as shown in Figure 3. That is, the following describes an example where the first band data BD1 is band data with the first direction D1, which is the vertical direction of the print target PX1, as the longitudinal direction, and the second band data BD2 is band data with the second direction D2, which is the horizontal direction of the print target PX1, as the longitudinal direction.

[0028] Figure 4 shows an example in which the image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 processes the first band data BD1 to form an image on a printing medium. The image forming apparatus in Figure 4 corresponds to the first image forming apparatus 100 and the second image forming apparatus 200 described above. In other words, the first image forming apparatus 100 may perform the processing shown in Figure 4. The second image forming apparatus 200 may also perform the processing shown in Figure 4.

[0029] In the example shown in Figure 4, the transport mechanisms corresponding to transport mechanisms 112 and 212 transport the printing medium M in the transport direction D31. The printing mechanisms corresponding to printing mechanisms 114 and 214 have a long print head unit 92 that extends in a direction D21 intersecting the transport direction D31 of the printing medium M. The print head unit 92 is fixed in the image forming apparatus. The print head unit 92 has a plurality of print heads 92a arranged along the direction D21. Each of the plurality of print heads 92a has a plurality of nozzles capable of ejecting liquid such as ink. The plurality of print heads 92a arranged along the direction D21 can perform printing over the entire width direction (direction along the direction D21) of the printing medium M transported along the direction D31. The print head unit 92 may also be referred to as a line-type print head.

[0030] As the transport mechanism transports the printing medium M in the transport direction D31, each of the multiple print heads 92a processes each of the multiple first band data BD1 in the print data PD1. In this way, each of the multiple print heads 92a forms a first print target portion ImBD1 on the printing medium M that corresponds to the first band data BD1. In other words, each of the multiple print heads 92a moves once relative to the printing medium M to form a first print target portion ImBD1 on the printing medium M that corresponds to the first band data BD1. In this way, the image forming apparatus forms the print target PX1 over the entire printing medium M.

[0031] Figure 5 shows an example in which the image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 processes the second band data BD2 to form an image on a printing medium. The image forming apparatus in Figure 5 corresponds to the first image forming apparatus 100 and the second image forming apparatus 200 described above. In other words, the first image forming apparatus 100 may perform the processing shown in Figure 5. The second image forming apparatus 200 may also perform the processing shown in Figure 5.

[0032] In the example shown in Figure 5, the transport mechanisms corresponding to transport mechanisms 112 and 212 transport the printing medium M in the transport direction D32. The printing mechanisms corresponding to printing mechanisms 114 and 214 have a print head 94. The print head 94 is capable of reciprocating along a direction D22 that intersects the transport direction D32 of the printing medium M, as indicated by arrow D4. The print head 94 has multiple nozzles capable of ejecting liquids such as ink. By moving (scanning) along direction D22, the print head 94 can perform printing over the entire width of the printing medium M (along the direction D22). The print head 94 may also be referred to as a serial type print head.

[0033] The transport mechanism alternately transports the printing medium M in the transport direction D32, and the print head 94 alternately moves along the direction D22. During this time, with each movement, the print head 94 processes each of the multiple second band data BD2 in the print data PD2 to form a second print target portion ImBD2 on the printing medium M that corresponds to the second band data BD2. The image forming apparatus then alternately performs the operation of transporting the printing medium M in the transport direction D32 and the operation of the print head 94 moving along the direction D22, thereby forming the print target PX1 over the entire printing medium M.

[0034] The printing unit 110 of the first image forming apparatus 100 may have either a print head unit 92 or a print head 94. In other words, the first image forming apparatus 100 may be capable of processing either the first band data BD1 or the second band data BD2. Similarly, the printing unit 210 of the second image forming apparatus 200 may have either a print head unit 92 or a print head 94. In other words, the second image forming apparatus 200 may be capable of processing either the first band data BD1 or the second band data BD2. Furthermore, the printing unit 110 of the first image forming apparatus 100 may have both a print head unit 92 and a print head 94. In other words, the first image forming apparatus 100 may be capable of processing both the first band data BD1 and the second band data BD2. Similarly, the printing unit 210 of the second image forming apparatus 200 may have both a print head unit 92 and a print head 94. In other words, the second image forming apparatus 200 may be capable of processing both the first band data BD1 and the second band data BD2.

[0035] Furthermore, in the example of Figure 4, the first band data BD1 is shown to be processed by the print head unit 92, but the first band data BD1 may also be processed by the print head 94 shown in Figure 5. Similarly, in the example of Figure 5, the second band data BD2 is shown to be processed by the print head 94, but the second band data BD2 may also be processed by the print head unit 92. That is, in the examples of Figures 4 and 5, the first direction D1 (vertical direction) of the print target PX1 formed on the print medium M is aligned with the transport direction of the print medium M. On the other hand, the image forming apparatus may form the print target PX1 on the print medium M such that the second direction D2 (horizontal direction) of the print target PX1 is aligned with the transport direction of the print medium M. In this case, the print head 94 shown in Figure 5 may process each of the first band data BD1 of the print data PD1 to form the first print target portion ImBD1 on the print medium M. Similarly, each of the print heads 92a of the print head unit 92 shown in Figure 4 may process each of the second band data BD2 of the print data PD2 to form the second print target portion ImBD2 on the print medium M.

[0036] Which band data of the first band data BD1 and the second band data BD2 the first image forming apparatus 100 can process may be determined, for example, by the model of the first image forming apparatus 100. Similarly, which band data of the first band data BD1 and the second band data BD2 the second image forming apparatus 200 can process may be determined, for example, by the model of the second image forming apparatus 200. Furthermore, depending on the print settings for the first image forming apparatus 100, the first image forming apparatus 100 may process either the first band data BD1 or the second band data BD2. Similarly, depending on the print settings for the second image forming apparatus 200, the second image forming apparatus 200 may process either the first band data BD1 or the second band data BD2.

[0037] Furthermore, image forming apparatuses such as the first image forming apparatus 100 and the second image forming apparatus 200 may have a modification function to change the longitudinal direction of band data in print data acquired from the terminal device 10 or other image forming apparatus. For example, if an image forming apparatus is capable of processing either the first band data BD1 or the second band data BD2, and the acquired print data consists of band data that cannot be processed, the modification function may be used to change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data. Also, for example, if the print settings for the acquired print data cannot process the band data that constitutes that print data, the modification function may be used to change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data.

[0038] For example, suppose an image forming apparatus A cannot process the first band data BD1 but can process the second band data BD2. And suppose the image forming apparatus A has a modification function. In this case, when the image forming apparatus A acquires print data PD1 consisting of the first band data BD1, it may use the modification function to change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data PD1. That is, the image forming apparatus A may change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data PD1 from the first direction D1 to the second direction D2. As a result, the image forming apparatus A may convert the print data PD1 consisting of the first band data BD1 with the first direction D1 as the longitudinal direction to print data PD2 consisting of the second band data BD2 with the second direction D2 as the longitudinal direction. Then, the image forming apparatus A may perform printing using the print data PD2 consisting of the second band data BD2.

[0039] Furthermore, suppose, for example, that image forming apparatus B cannot process the second band data BD2 but can process the first band data BD1. And suppose that image forming apparatus B has a modification function. In this case, when image forming apparatus B acquires print data PD2 composed of the second band data BD2, it may use the modification function to change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data PD2. That is, image forming apparatus B may change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data PD2 from the second direction D2 to the first direction D1. As a result, image forming apparatus B may convert print data PD2 composed of the second band data BD2 with the second direction D2 as the longitudinal direction to print data PD1 composed of the first band data BD1 with the first direction D1 as the longitudinal direction. Then, image forming apparatus B may perform printing using print data PD1 composed of the first band data BD1.

[0040] Furthermore, for example, suppose that the image forming apparatus C can process both the first band data BD1 and the second band data BD2, but cannot process the first band data BD1 under a certain print setting C1. Also, suppose that the image forming apparatus C has a modification function. And suppose that the image forming apparatus C has acquired print data PD1, which is composed of the first band data BD1 and has been instructed to be printed under print setting C1. In this case, the image forming apparatus C may, using the modification function, change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data PD1 as described above. And the image forming apparatus C may then perform printing using print data PD2, which is composed of the second band data BD2, under print setting C1.

[0041] Furthermore, for example, suppose that the image forming apparatus D can process both the first band data BD1 and the second band data BD2, but cannot process the second band data BD2 under a certain print setting D1. Also, suppose that the image forming apparatus D has a modification function. And suppose that the image forming apparatus D has acquired print data PD2, which is composed of the second band data BD2 and has been instructed to be printed under print setting D1. In this case, the image forming apparatus D may, using the modification function, change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data PD2 as described above. And the image forming apparatus D may then perform printing using print data PD1, which is composed of the first band data BD1, under print setting D1.

[0042] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the modification function according to Embodiment 1. In Figure 6, arrow Sa1 indicates the flow by which the modification function changes the longitudinal direction of the first band data BD1. The modification function acquires print data PD1, which consists of multiple first band data BD1 with the first direction D1 as the longitudinal direction. The modification function combines the multiple first band data BD1 to generate print data PD10 corresponding to the print original data PD0. Then, the modification function divides the print data PD10 into multiple second band data BD2 with the second direction D2 as the longitudinal direction to generate print data PD2. In this way, the modification function changes the longitudinal direction of the band data of the print data from the first direction D1 to the second direction D2, and converts print data PD1 to print data PD2.

[0043] Furthermore, in Figure 6, arrow Sa2 indicates the flow by which the modification function changes the longitudinal direction of the second band data BD2. The modification function obtains print data PD2, which consists of multiple second band data BD2 with the second direction D2 as the longitudinal direction. The modification function combines the multiple second band data BD2 to generate print data PD10, which corresponds to the print original data PD0. Then, the modification function divides the print data PD10 into multiple first band data BD1 with the first direction D1 as the longitudinal direction to generate print data PD1. In this way, the modification function changes the longitudinal direction of the band data of the print data from the second direction D2 to the first direction D1, and converts print data PD2 to print data PD1.

[0044] Figure 7 shows the configuration of a terminal device 10 according to Embodiment 1. The terminal device 10 has a main hardware configuration consisting of a processing unit 12, a storage unit 14, a communication unit 16, and an interface unit 18. The processing unit 12, storage unit 14, communication unit 16, and interface unit 18 may be interconnected via a data bus or the like.

[0045] The processing unit 12 is a processor, such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processing unit 12 may have multiple processors. The processing unit 12 functions as an arithmetic unit that performs control processing and calculation processing. The processing unit 12 controls the storage unit 14, the communication unit 16, and the interface unit 18.

[0046] The storage unit 14 is, for example, a storage device such as a memory or hard disk. The storage unit 14 is, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory) or RAM (Random Access Memory). The storage unit 14 has the function of storing control programs and arithmetic programs executed by the processing unit 12. The storage unit 14 also has the function of temporarily storing processing data. The storage unit 14 may include a database.

[0047] The communication unit 16 performs the necessary processing for the terminal device 10 to communicate with other devices via the network 2. The communication unit 16 may include a communication port, router, firewall, etc. The communication unit 16 performs the processing for the terminal device 10 to communicate with the first image forming apparatus 100 and the second image forming apparatus 200. The communication unit 16 may also perform the processing for the terminal device 10 to communicate with the first image forming apparatus 100 and the second image forming apparatus 200 via a LAN such as a wireless LAN. Furthermore, the communication unit 16 may also perform the processing for the terminal device 10 to communicate with the first image forming apparatus 100 and the second image forming apparatus 200 via the internet.

[0048] The interface unit 18 is, for example, a user interface. The interface unit 18 accepts data input operations from the user of the terminal device 10 and outputs information to the user. The interface unit 18 has a display unit and an operation unit. The display unit is a display device that displays images, for example, a display. The display unit is an output device that outputs information. The operation unit is an input device that inputs or selects information, for example, a keyboard or mouse. The operation unit is an input device that inputs information. The interface unit 18 may be configured such that the input device and the output device are integrated, for example, a touchscreen or touch panel. In this case, the display unit and the operation unit may be physically integrated. The interface unit 18 may also have a speaker and a microphone.

[0049] Furthermore, the terminal device 10 according to Embodiment 1 includes, as its components, an OS 20 (Operating System), an application 30, a printer driver 40, a print data generation unit 50, and a first print data transmission unit 60. The OS 20 is the basic software. In addition, each component other than the OS 20 operates using the functions of the OS 20.

[0050] Each of the above-described components can be realized, for example, by having the processing unit 12 control and execute a program. More specifically, each component can be realized by having the processing unit 12 execute a program stored in the storage unit 14. Alternatively, each component can be realized by recording the necessary program on any non-volatile recording medium and installing it as needed. This is also true in other embodiments.

[0051] Furthermore, each component is not limited to being implemented by software through a program; it may also be implemented by a combination of hardware, firmware, and software. Additionally, each component may be implemented using a user-programmable integrated circuit, such as an FPGA (field-programmable gate array) or a microcontroller. In this case, the program composed of the above-mentioned components may be implemented using this integrated circuit. The same applies to other embodiments.

[0052] Application 30 is application software capable of performing processes involving printing. Application 30 may be, for example, document editing software, spreadsheet software, image editing software, or photo display software. Application 30 generates print document data.

[0053] The printer driver 40 is installed on the terminal device 10 by the operation of the installer. The printer driver 40 is software for controlling and operating image forming apparatuses such as the first image forming apparatus 100 and the second image forming apparatus 200. The printer driver 40 generates a print job corresponding to the print document data generated by the application 30. Here, the printer driver 40 is provided for at least the first image forming apparatus 100. When the user performs an operation to cause the first image forming apparatus 100 to process the print document data, the printer driver 40 of the first image forming apparatus 100 generates a print job corresponding to the print settings of the first image forming apparatus 100 using the print document data. Note that a printer driver 40 may also be provided for the second image forming apparatus 200. In this case, when the user performs an operation to cause the second image forming apparatus 200 to process the print document data, the printer driver 40 of the second image forming apparatus 200 generates a print job corresponding to the print settings of the second image forming apparatus 200 using the print document data.

[0054] The print data generation unit 50 generates print data that indicates the print target in the first image forming apparatus 100, which is to be transmitted to the master unit, i.e., the first image forming apparatus 100. The print data generation unit 50 may also be implemented by the printer driver 40. The print data generation unit 50 acquires the print original data generated by the application 30. Using the print original data, the print data generation unit 50 generates print data to be used in the first image forming apparatus 100.

[0055] Here, the print data generation unit 50 generates print data according to the functions of the first image forming apparatus 100. Specifically, the print data generation unit 50 generates print data consisting of band data that can be processed according to the functions of the first image forming apparatus 100. More specifically, if the first image forming apparatus 100 can process the first band data BD1 but cannot process the second band data BD2, the print data generation unit 50 generates print data PD1 consisting of the first band data BD1. Also, if the first image forming apparatus 100 can process the second band data BD2 but cannot process the first band data BD1, the print data generation unit 50 generates print data PD2 consisting of the second band data BD2.

[0056] Furthermore, if the first image forming apparatus 100 is capable of processing both the first band data BD1 and the second band data BD2, the print data generation unit 50 may generate either print data according to the print settings specified by the user. For example, the print data generation unit 50 may generate either print data PD1 or print data PD2 according to the paper size specified by the user. For example, suppose the first image forming apparatus 100 processes the second band data BD2 when printing on A4 size paper and processes the first band data BD1 when printing on A3 size paper. In this example, if the user specifies the paper size as "A4 size", the print data generation unit 50 generates print data PD2 consisting of the second band data BD2. Also, if the user specifies the paper size as "A3 size", the print data generation unit 50 generates print data PD1 consisting of the first band data BD1.

[0057] The first print data transmission unit 60 performs processing to transmit the print data generated by the print data generation unit 50 to the first image forming apparatus 100. The first print data transmission unit 60 may also control the communication unit 16 to transmit the print data to the first image forming apparatus 100. The first print data transmission unit 60 may also transmit a print job including the print data to the first image forming apparatus 100 as a print command. The print job (print command) may include print data, print settings, user identification information which is the identification information of the user of the terminal device 10, and the transmission time of the print job (print data). The user identification information may be the identification information of the terminal device 10.

[0058] Figure 8 shows the configuration of the first image forming apparatus 100 according to Embodiment 1. The first image forming apparatus 100 has, as its main hardware components, a processing unit 102, a storage unit 104, a communication unit 106, an interface unit 108, and a printing unit 110. The processing unit 102, storage unit 104, communication unit 106, interface unit 108, and printing unit 110 may be interconnected via a data bus or the like.

[0059] The processing unit 102 is, for example, a processor such as a CPU. The processing unit 102 may have multiple processors. The processing unit 102 has the function of an arithmetic unit that performs control processing and calculation processing. The processing unit 102 controls the storage unit 104, the communication unit 106, the interface unit 108, and the printing unit 110.

[0060] The storage unit 104 is, for example, a storage device such as memory or a hard disk. The storage unit 104 is, for example, ROM or RAM. The storage unit 104 has the function of storing control programs and arithmetic programs executed by the processing unit 102. The storage unit 104 also has the function of temporarily storing processing data. The storage unit 104 may include a database.

[0061] The communication unit 106 performs the necessary processing for the first image forming apparatus 100 to communicate with other devices via the network 2. The communication unit 106 may include a communication port, router, firewall, etc. The communication unit 106 performs the processing for the first image forming apparatus 100 to communicate with the terminal device 10 and the second image forming apparatus 200. The communication unit 106 may also perform the processing for the first image forming apparatus 100 to communicate with the terminal device 10 and the second image forming apparatus 200 via a LAN such as a wireless LAN. Furthermore, the communication unit 106 may also perform the processing for the first image forming apparatus 100 to communicate with the terminal device 10 and the second image forming apparatus 200 via the internet.

[0062] The interface unit 108 is, for example, a user interface. The interface unit 108 receives data input operations from the user of the first image forming apparatus 100 and outputs information to the user. The interface unit 108 has input devices such as buttons, a keyboard, a touch panel, or a mouse, and output devices such as a display or a speaker. The interface unit 108 may be configured with the input device and output device integrated into one unit. The interface unit 108 receives data input operations from the user and outputs information to the user. The interface unit 108 includes an operation panel.

[0063] Furthermore, the first image forming apparatus 100 includes a print data acquisition unit 130 and a print data storage unit 132 as its components. The first image forming apparatus 100 also includes a request acquisition unit 140, a print job information transmission unit 142, a selection result acquisition unit 144, a first function information acquisition unit 150, a second function information acquisition unit 151, a change unit 160, and a print data transmission unit 170 as its components. The first image forming apparatus 100 may have an operating system (OS) as its basic software. The components other than the OS described above may operate using the functions of the OS. Furthermore, the first image forming apparatus 100 may have components that are substantially the same as those of the second image forming apparatus 200, which will be described later. In other words, the first image forming apparatus 100 may function as a slave unit. This is also true in other embodiments described later.

[0064] Each of the above-described components can be realized, for example, by executing a program under the control of the processing unit 102. More specifically, each component can be realized by the processing unit 102 executing a program stored in the storage unit 104. Alternatively, each component can be realized by recording the necessary program on any non-volatile recording medium and installing it as needed. These principles also apply to other embodiments.

[0065] Furthermore, each component is not limited to being implemented by software through a program; it may also be implemented by a combination of hardware, firmware, and software. Additionally, each component may be implemented using a user-programmable integrated circuit, such as an FPGA or microcontroller. In this case, the program composed of the above-mentioned components may be implemented using this integrated circuit. These points are also true in other embodiments.

[0066] The print data acquisition unit 130 acquires print data from the terminal device 10. Specifically, the print data acquisition unit 130 acquires print data indicating the print target in the first image forming apparatus 100. The print data acquisition unit 130 may also acquire print data when the communication unit 106 receives print data from the terminal device 10. Alternatively, the print data acquisition unit 130 may acquire print data by acquiring a print job from the terminal device 10.

[0067] Here, the print data acquisition unit 130 acquires print data that includes either band data delimited with the first direction D1 of the print target as the longitudinal direction, or band data delimited with the second direction D2 of the print target as the longitudinal direction. In other words, the print data acquisition unit 130 acquires print data that includes either the first band data BD1 or the second band data BD2. To put it another way, the print data acquisition unit 130 acquires print data that consists of either the first band data BD1 or the second band data BD2.

[0068] Furthermore, the print data acquisition unit 130 may acquire print data consisting of band data that can be processed according to the function of the first image forming apparatus 100. Therefore, when the first image forming apparatus 100 processes the first band data BD1 with a function corresponding to the specified print settings, the print data acquisition unit 130 acquires print data PD1 consisting of the first band data BD1. Also, when the first image forming apparatus 100 processes the second band data BD2 with a function corresponding to the specified print settings, the print data acquisition unit 130 acquires print data PD2 consisting of the second band data BD2.

[0069] The print data storage unit 132 stores the acquired print data. The print data storage unit 132 may be implemented by the storage unit 104. The print data storage unit 132 stores the print data in association with the user identification information of the user of the terminal device 10 that sent the print data. In other words, the print data storage unit 132 stores print jobs that include print data and user identification information. As a result, the print data storage unit 132 stores print job information that indicates multiple print jobs. The print job information indicates a print job list, which is a list of print jobs. The print job information may be generated for each user.

[0070] The request acquisition unit 140 acquires a print data request from the second image forming apparatus 200 that requests the transmission of print data. In other words, the request acquisition unit 140 acquires the print data request acquired by the first image forming apparatus 100 from the second image forming apparatus 200. The request acquisition unit 140 may also acquire the print data request when the communication unit 106 receives the print data request from the second image forming apparatus 200. Specifically, the request acquisition unit 140 acquires the print data request from the second image forming apparatus 200 when authentication processing is performed in the second image forming apparatus 200 and user authentication is successful. The authentication processing in the second image forming apparatus 200 will be described later.

[0071] The print data request may include user identification information, which is the identification information of a user whose authentication was successful, and slave device identification information, which is the identification information of the second image forming apparatus 200. The print data request may also include first function information and second function information of the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0072] Here, the first functional information indicates whether the second image forming apparatus 200 can change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data. In other words, the first functional information indicates whether the second image forming apparatus 200 has the modification function described above using Figure 6. To put it another way, the first function related to the first functional information corresponds to the modification function. If the second image forming apparatus 200 has the modification function, the first functional information indicates that the second image forming apparatus 200 can change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data, i.e., "modification function present". If the second image forming apparatus 200 does not have the modification function, the first functional information indicates that the second image forming apparatus 200 cannot change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data, i.e., "modification function absent".

[0073] Furthermore, the second functional information indicates whether the second image forming apparatus 200 processes the first band data BD1 or the second band data BD2. In other words, the second functional information indicates the longitudinal direction of the band data to be processed by the second image forming apparatus 200. To put it another way, the second function related to the second functional information concerns which band data the second image forming apparatus 200 is capable of processing.

[0074] For example, when the second image forming apparatus 200 processes the first band data BD1, the second functional information indicates that the second image forming apparatus 200 processes band data with the first direction D1 of the print target as the longitudinal direction. In other words, the second functional information indicates that the longitudinal direction of the band data processed by the second image forming apparatus 200 is "first direction D1". To put it another way, the second functional information indicates "first band data BD1".

[0075] Furthermore, when the second image forming apparatus 200 processes the second band data BD2, the second functional information indicates that the second image forming apparatus 200 processes band data with the second direction D2 of the print target as the longitudinal direction. In other words, the second functional information indicates that the longitudinal direction of the band data processed by the second image forming apparatus 200 is "second direction D2". To put it another way, the second functional information indicates "second band data BD2".

[0076] Furthermore, when the second image forming apparatus 200 processes the first band data BD1 and the second band data BD2, the second functional information indicates that the second image forming apparatus 200 processes band data with the first direction D1 of the print target as the longitudinal direction and band data with the second direction D2 of the print target as the longitudinal direction. In other words, the second functional information indicates that the longitudinal directions of the band data processed by the second image forming apparatus 200 are "first direction D1" and "second direction D2". To put it another way, the second functional information indicates "first band data BD1" and "second band data BD2".

[0077] Furthermore, the second functional information may indicate whether the second image forming apparatus 200 processes the first band data BD1 or the second band data BD2 for each print setting. For example, suppose the second image forming apparatus 200 processes the first band data BD1 in print setting A and the second band data BD2 in print setting B. In this case, the second functional information may indicate "Print setting A: First band data BD1" and "Print setting B: Second band data BD2". In other words, the second functional information may indicate "Print setting A: The longitudinal direction of the band data is the first direction D1" and "Print setting B: The longitudinal direction of the band data is the second direction D2".

[0078] The request acquisition unit 140 can identify the second image forming apparatus 200 that is requesting print data by acquiring a print data request from the second image forming apparatus 200. Furthermore, if user authentication is successful in the second image forming apparatus 200, the request acquisition unit 140 can identify the second image forming apparatus 200 and the user that is requesting print data by acquiring a print data request from the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0079] The print job information transmission unit 142 performs processing to transmit print job information to the second image forming apparatus 200. The print job information transmission unit 142 may transmit print job information to the second image forming apparatus 200 by controlling the communication unit 106. The print job information transmission unit 142 transmits the print job information relating to the user identification information indicated in the print data request, which is stored in the print data storage unit 132, to the second image forming apparatus 200 relating to the slave device identification information indicated in the print data request. In other words, the print job information transmission unit 142 transmits print job information relating to the authenticated user to the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0080] As a result, the control panel of the second image forming apparatus 200 displays a list of print jobs for the authenticated user. Then, as described above, when the user operates the control panel to select a print job, the second image forming apparatus 200 transmits the print job selection result to the first image forming apparatus 100.

[0081] The selection result acquisition unit 144 acquires the selection result of a print job from the second image forming apparatus 200. The selection result acquisition unit 144 may also acquire the selection result when the communication unit 106 receives the selection result from the second image forming apparatus 200. Here, the selection result indicates the print job selected by the user. The selection result may also include first function information and second function information of the second image forming apparatus 200. The selection result may also indicate a request for print data related to the print job selected by the user. In this case, the selection result acquisition unit 144 can function as a request acquisition unit that acquires the request for print data acquired by the first image forming apparatus 100 from the second image forming apparatus.

[0082] The first function information acquisition unit 150 acquires first function information relating to the second image forming apparatus 200. The first function information acquisition unit 150 acquires first function information of the second image forming apparatus 200 that sent the print data request. If the first function information is included in the print data request, the first function information acquisition unit 150 may acquire the first function information from the print data request. If the first function information is included in the selection result, the first function information acquisition unit 150 may acquire the first function information from the selection result. In addition, the first function information acquisition unit 150 may acquire the first function information from the second image forming apparatus 200 separately from the print data request and the selection result. In this case, the first function information acquisition unit 150 may acquire the first function information from the second image forming apparatus 200 in response to acquiring a print data request.

[0083] The second function information acquisition unit 151 acquires second function information relating to the second image forming apparatus 200. The second function information acquisition unit 151 acquires the second function information of the second image forming apparatus 200 that sent the print data request. If the second function information is included in the print data request, the second function information acquisition unit 151 may acquire the second function information from the print data request. If the second function information is included in the selection result, the second function information acquisition unit 151 may acquire the second function information from the selection result. In addition, the second function information acquisition unit 151 may acquire the second function information from the second image forming apparatus 200 separately from the print data request and the selection result. In this case, the second function information acquisition unit 151 may acquire the second function information from the second image forming apparatus 200 in response to acquiring a print data request.

[0084] The modification unit 160 performs modification processing on the longitudinal direction of the band data in the acquired print data. In other words, the modification unit 160 performs modification processing on the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data corresponding to the print job indicated in the selection result. The modification unit 160 performs modification processing on the print data stored in the print data storage unit 132. Specifically, the modification unit 160 performs modification processing on the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data based on the first function information. The modification unit 160 also performs modification processing on the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data based on the second function information. That is, the modification unit 160 compares the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data with the longitudinal direction of the band data indicated in the second function information. Then, the modification unit 160 performs modification processing on the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data based on the comparison result.

[0085] More specifically, if the first functional information indicates "modification function available," that is, if the second image forming apparatus 200 is capable of changing the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data, the modification unit 160 decides not to change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data. Also, if the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data matches the longitudinal direction of the band data indicated in the second functional information, the modification unit 160 decides not to change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data.

[0086] On the other hand, if the second image forming apparatus 200 is unable to change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data, and if the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data does not match the longitudinal direction of the band data indicated in the second functional information, the modification unit 160 changes the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data. In other words, if the first functional information indicates "no modification function" and the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data does not match the longitudinal direction of the band data indicated in the second functional information, the modification unit 160 changes the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data. Thus, the modification process by the modification unit 160 includes cases where the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data is changed and cases where the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data is not changed.

[0087] As described above, the first image forming apparatus 100 acquires first and second function information in response to receiving a request for print data from the second image forming apparatus 200. The modification unit 160 then performs a modification process to change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data based on the first and second function information. Therefore, the modification unit 160 determines whether or not to change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data in response to receiving a request for print data.

[0088] Here, we consider the case where the first functional information indicates "no modification function," meaning the second image forming apparatus 200 cannot change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data. In this case, the print data is print data PD1 which includes the first band data BD1, and the second functional information indicates "second band data BD2." In this case, the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data does not match the longitudinal direction of the band data indicated in the second functional information. Therefore, the modification unit 160 changes the longitudinal direction of the first band data BD1 as shown by arrow Sa1 in Figure 6. That is, the modification unit 160 generates print data PD10 by combining multiple first band data BD1s, and generates print data PD2 by dividing print data PD10 into multiple second band data BD2s whose longitudinal direction is the second direction D2. In this way, the modification unit 160 changes the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data from the first direction D1 to the second direction D2, and converts print data PD1 to print data PD2.

[0089] Furthermore, in the above case, suppose the print data is print data PD2 which includes the second band data BD2, and the second functional information indicates "first band data BD1". In this case, the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data does not match the longitudinal direction of the band data indicated in the second functional information. Therefore, the modification unit 160 changes the longitudinal direction of the second band data BD2 as shown by arrow Sa2 in Figure 6. In other words, the modification unit 160 generates print data PD10 by combining multiple second band data BD2s, and generates print data PD1 by dividing print data PD10 into multiple first band data BD1s whose longitudinal direction is the first direction D1. In this way, the modification unit 160 changes the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data from the second direction D2 to the first direction D1, and converts print data PD2 to print data PD1.

[0090] In the above case, assume that the print data is print data PD1 which includes the first band data BD1, and the second functional information indicates "first band data BD1". In this case, the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data and the longitudinal direction of the band data indicated in the second functional information coincide. Therefore, the modification unit 160 decides not to change the longitudinal direction of the first band data BD1. Also, in the above case, assume that the print data is print data PD2 which includes the second band data BD2, and the second functional information indicates "second band data BD2". In this case, the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data and the longitudinal direction of the band data indicated in the second functional information coincide. Therefore, the modification unit 160 decides not to change the longitudinal direction of the second band data BD2.

[0091] Furthermore, as described above, the second functional information may indicate whether the second image forming apparatus 200 processes the first band data BD1 or the second band data BD2 for each print setting. In this case, the modification unit 160 may perform a modification process to change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data based on the comparison result of comparing the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data with the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print setting for the print data shown in the second functional information. In this case, for example, suppose the second functional information indicates "Print setting A: First band data BD1" and "Print setting B: Second band data BD2". In this case, suppose the print data is print data PD1 including the first band data BD1, and the print setting for the print data is print setting A. In this case, the modification unit 160 decides not to change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data. On the other hand, suppose in the above case, the print data is print data PD1 including the first band data BD1, and the print setting for the print data is print setting B. In this case, the modification unit 160 changes the longitudinal direction of the first band data BD1 in the print data PD1, as shown by arrow Sa1 in Figure 6. Furthermore, in the above case, the print data is print data PD2 which includes the second band data BD2, and the print setting for the print data is print setting A. In this case, the modification unit 160 changes the longitudinal direction of the second band data BD2 in the print data PD2, as shown by arrow Sa2 in Figure 6.

[0092] The print data transmission unit 170 transmits the print data, which has undergone longitudinal modification processing of the band data in the print data, to the second image forming apparatus 200. The print data transmission unit 170 may also transmit the print data to the second image forming apparatus 200 by controlling the communication unit 106. In addition, the print data transmission unit 170 transmits print data relating to a user who has successfully been authenticated to the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0093] Specifically, the print data transmission unit 170 transmits print data in which the longitudinal direction of the band data has been changed to the second image forming apparatus 200 when the first function information indicates "no change function" and the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data does not match the longitudinal direction of the band data indicated in the second function information. On the other hand, when the first function information indicates "change function present", the print data transmission unit 170 transmits print data in which the longitudinal direction of the band data has not been changed to the second image forming apparatus 200. Furthermore, when the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data matches the longitudinal direction of the band data indicated in the second function information, the print data transmission unit 170 transmits print data in which the longitudinal direction of the band data has not been changed to the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0094] Figure 9 shows the configuration of the second image forming apparatus 200 according to Embodiment 1. The second image forming apparatus 200 has a processing unit 202, a storage unit 204, a communication unit 206, an interface unit 208, and a printing unit 210 as its main hardware components. The processing unit 202, storage unit 204, communication unit 206, interface unit 208, and printing unit 210 may be interconnected via a data bus or the like.

[0095] The processing unit 202 is, for example, a processor such as a CPU. The processing unit 202 may have multiple processors. The processing unit 202 has the function of an arithmetic unit that performs control processing and calculation processing. The processing unit 202 controls the storage unit 204, the communication unit 206, the interface unit 208, and the printing unit 210.

[0096] The storage unit 204 is, for example, a storage device such as memory or a hard disk. The storage unit 204 is, for example, ROM or RAM. The storage unit 204 has the function of storing control programs and arithmetic programs executed by the processing unit 202. The storage unit 204 also has the function of temporarily storing processing data. The storage unit 204 may include a database.

[0097] The communication unit 206 performs the necessary processing for the second image forming apparatus 200 to communicate with other devices via the network 2. The communication unit 206 may include a communication port, router, firewall, etc. The communication unit 206 performs the processing for the second image forming apparatus 200 to communicate with the terminal device 10 and the first image forming apparatus 100. The communication unit 206 may also perform the processing for the second image forming apparatus 200 to communicate with the terminal device 10 and the first image forming apparatus 100 via a LAN such as a wireless LAN. Furthermore, the communication unit 206 may also perform the processing for the second image forming apparatus 200 to communicate with the terminal device 10 and the first image forming apparatus 100 via the internet.

[0098] The interface unit 208 is, for example, a user interface. The interface unit 208 receives data input operations from the user of the second image forming apparatus 200 and outputs information to the user. The interface unit 208 has input devices such as buttons, a keyboard, a touch panel, or a mouse, and output devices such as a display or a speaker. The interface unit 208 may be configured with the input device and output device integrated into one unit. The interface unit 208 receives data input operations from the user and outputs information to the user. The interface unit 208 includes an operation panel.

[0099] Furthermore, the second image forming apparatus 200 includes, as components, a first function information storage unit 220, a second function information storage unit 222, an authentication unit 230, and a request transmission unit 232. The second image forming apparatus 200 also includes, as components, a print job information acquisition unit 240, a print job information display unit 242, a selection result transmission unit 244, a print data acquisition unit 250, and a print instruction unit 260. The second image forming apparatus 200 may have an operating system (OS) as its basic software. The components other than the OS described above may operate using the functions of the OS. Furthermore, the second image forming apparatus 200 may have components that are substantially the same as those of the first image forming apparatus 100 described above. That is, the second image forming apparatus 200 may function as a master unit. This is also true in other embodiments described later.

[0100] Each of the above-described components can be realized, for example, by executing a program under the control of the processing unit 202. More specifically, each component can be realized by the processing unit 202 executing a program stored in the storage unit 204. Alternatively, each component can be realized by recording the necessary program on any non-volatile recording medium and installing it as needed. These principles also apply to other embodiments.

[0101] Furthermore, each component is not limited to being implemented by software through a program; it may also be implemented by a combination of hardware, firmware, and software. Additionally, each component may be implemented using a user-programmable integrated circuit, such as an FPGA or microcontroller. In this case, the program composed of the above-mentioned components may be implemented using this integrated circuit. These points are also true in other embodiments.

[0102] The first function information storage unit 220 stores the first function information of the second image forming apparatus 200. The first function information storage unit 220 may be implemented by the storage unit 204. If the second image forming apparatus 200 has a modification function as described with reference to Figure 6, the first function information storage unit 220 stores first function information indicating that the second image forming apparatus 200 has a modification function, that is, "modification function available". On the other hand, if the second image forming apparatus 200 does not have a modification function, the first function information storage unit 220 stores first function information indicating that the second image forming apparatus 200 does not have a modification function, that is, "no modification function".

[0103] The second function information storage unit 222 stores the second function information of the second image forming apparatus 200. The second function information storage unit 222 may be implemented by the storage unit 204. When the second image forming apparatus 200 processes the first band data BD1, the second function information storage unit 222 stores the second function information indicating that the second image forming apparatus 200 processes band data with the first direction D1 of the print target as the longitudinal direction, that is, "first band data BD1". When the second image forming apparatus 200 processes the second band data BD2, the second function information storage unit 222 stores the second function information indicating that the second image forming apparatus 200 processes band data with the second direction D2 of the print target as the longitudinal direction, that is, "second band data BD2". When the second image forming apparatus 200 processes both the first band data BD1 and the second band data BD2, the second function information storage unit 222 stores the second function information indicating "first band data BD1" and "second band data BD2". The second function information storage unit 222 may also store second function information indicating whether the second image forming apparatus 200 processes the first band data BD1 or the second band data BD2 for each print setting.

[0104] The authentication unit 230 performs user authentication. Specifically, the authentication unit 230 determines whether the user attempting authentication is a legitimate user of the second image forming apparatus 200. In other words, the authentication unit 230 determines whether the user attempting authentication is a pre-registered user. More specifically, the authentication unit 230 obtains the user's identification information by having the user attempting authentication operate the interface unit 208. The authentication unit 230 then determines whether the obtained user identification information is included in the pre-registered registration information. The registration information may be stored in the second image forming apparatus 200, or it may be stored in a server that is communicably connected to the second image forming apparatus 200. The authentication unit 230 determines that the user's authentication was successful if the obtained user identification information is included in the registration information. On the other hand, the authentication unit 230 determines that the user's authentication failed if the obtained user identification information is not included in the registration information.

[0105] The request transmission unit 232 transmits a print data request to the first image forming apparatus 100. The request transmission unit 232 may transmit the print data request to the first image forming apparatus 100 by controlling the communication unit 206. Specifically, if user authentication is successful, the request transmission unit 232 transmits a print data request to the first image forming apparatus 100 requesting that the print data transmitted from the terminal device 10 to the first image forming apparatus 100 be transmitted to the second image forming apparatus 200. As described above, the print data request may include user identification information, which is the identification information of the authenticated user, and slave device identification information, which is the identification information of the second image forming apparatus 200. The print data request may also include first function information and second function information of the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0106] The print job information acquisition unit 240 acquires print job information from the first image forming apparatus 100. The print job information acquisition unit 240 may also acquire print job information when the communication unit 206 receives print job information from the first image forming apparatus 100. The print job information acquisition unit 240 acquires print job information related to a user whose authentication has been successful from the first image forming apparatus 100.

[0107] The print job information display unit 242 performs processing to display the print job list indicated by the print job information. Specifically, the print job information display unit 242 displays the print job list on the interface unit 208, such as the operation panel. The user then performs a print job selection operation from the print job list displayed on the interface unit 208 by the print job information display unit 242.

[0108] The selection result transmission unit 244 transmits the user's selection result to the first image forming apparatus 100. The selection result transmission unit 244 may transmit the selection result to the first image forming apparatus 100 by controlling the communication unit 206. As described above, the selection result indicates the print job selected by the user. The selection result may also include first function information and second function information of the second image forming apparatus 200. The selection result may also indicate a request for print data related to the print job selected by the user.

[0109] The print data acquisition unit 250 acquires print data from the first image forming apparatus 100. The print data acquisition unit 250 may also acquire print data when the communication unit 206 receives print data from the first image forming apparatus 100. If authentication is successful, the print data acquisition unit 250 acquires print data relating to the authenticated user from the first image forming apparatus 100, which has acquired print data from the terminal device 10. Here, in the print data acquired by the print data acquisition unit 250, the longitudinal direction of the band data that delimited the print target has been modified based on the longitudinal direction of the band data corresponding to the second image forming apparatus 200. In other words, in the print data acquired by the print data acquisition unit 250, the longitudinal direction of the band data may have been modified to match the longitudinal direction of the band data processed by the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0110] For example, if the second image forming apparatus 200 does not have a modification function, the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data acquired by the first image forming apparatus 100 does not match the longitudinal direction of the band data processed by the second image forming apparatus 200. In this case, the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data acquired by the print data acquisition unit 250 is modified to match the longitudinal direction of the band data processed by the second image forming apparatus 200. On the other hand, if the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data acquired by the first image forming apparatus 100 matches the longitudinal direction of the band data processed by the second image forming apparatus 200, the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data acquired by the print data acquisition unit 250 is not modified. Furthermore, if the second image forming apparatus 200 has a modification function, the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data acquired by the print data acquisition unit 250 is not modified.

[0111] The print instruction unit 260 instructs the print unit 210 to print the acquired print data and controls the print unit 210. As a result, the print unit 210 prints the acquired print data. Here, as described above, the print data that the print unit 210 prints has undergone modification processing in the longitudinal direction of the band data based on the longitudinal direction of the band data corresponding to the second image forming apparatus 200. Therefore, the print unit 210 prints the print data according to the function of the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0112] Furthermore, the second image forming apparatus 200 has a modification function, and the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data does not match the longitudinal direction of the band data processed by the second image forming apparatus 200. In this case, the print instruction unit 260 changes the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data using the modification function. The print instruction unit 260 then instructs the print unit 210 to print the print data with the changed longitudinal direction of the band data, and controls the print unit 210.

[0113] Figures 10 and 11 show the processing performed by the processing system 1 according to Embodiment 1. Figures 10 and 11 show the processing method performed by the first image forming apparatus 100. Figure 10 shows a sequence diagram illustrating the processing method performed by the processing system 1 according to Embodiment 1.

[0114] The terminal device 10 transmits the print data to the first image forming apparatus 100 (step S100). Specifically, as described above, the print data generation unit 50 generates the print data. The first print data transmission unit 60 transmits the generated print data to the first image forming apparatus 100. In the first image forming apparatus 100, the print data acquisition unit 130 acquires the print data from the terminal device 10 as described above (step S102). The print data storage unit 132 then stores the acquired print data as described above (step S104).

[0115] In the second image forming apparatus 200, the authentication unit 230 performs user authentication as described above (step S112). If authentication is successful, the request transmission unit 232 transmits a print data request to the first image forming apparatus 100 as described above (step S114). The first image forming apparatus 100 then transmits print job information in response to the print data request (step S116). Specifically, the request acquisition unit 140 acquires a print data request from the second image forming apparatus 200 as described above. The print job information transmission unit 142 performs processing to transmit print job information to the second image forming apparatus 200 as described above.

[0116] The second image forming apparatus 200 displays print job information (step S122). Specifically, the print job information acquisition unit 240 acquires print job information from the first image forming apparatus 100 as described above. The print job information display unit 242 displays the print job list indicated by the print job information on the interface unit 208. Then, in the second image forming apparatus 200, the selection result transmission unit 244 transmits the user's selection result to the first image forming apparatus 100 as described above (step S124). As a result, the selection result acquisition unit 144 of the first image forming apparatus 100 acquires the print job selection result as described above.

[0117] In the first image forming apparatus 100, the first function information acquisition unit 150 acquires the first function information of the second image forming apparatus 200 as described above (step S130). Also in the first image forming apparatus 100, the second function information acquisition unit 151 acquires the second function information of the second image forming apparatus 200 as described above (step S132). Then, in the first image forming apparatus 100, the modification unit 160 performs modification processing in the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data (step S140).

[0118] Figure 11 is a flowchart detailing the processing in S140. Figure 11 shows the modification process performed by the modification unit 160. The modification unit 160 uses first function information to determine whether the second image forming apparatus 200, which is a slave unit, has a modification function (step S142). If the slave unit has a modification function (YES in S142), the modification unit 160 determines that it will not change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data (step S144). On the other hand, if the slave unit does not have a modification function (NO in S142), the modification unit 160 uses second function information to determine whether the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data matches the longitudinal direction of the band data processed by the slave unit (step S146). If the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data matches the longitudinal direction of the band data processed by the slave unit (YES in S146), the modification unit 160 performs the processing in S144 described above. In other words, the modification unit 160 determines that it will not change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data. On the other hand, if the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data does not match the longitudinal direction of the band data processed by the slave unit (NO in S146), the modification unit 160 changes the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data as described above (step S148). Specifically, the modification unit 160 changes the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data to match the longitudinal direction of the band data processed by the slave unit.

[0119] In the first image forming apparatus 100, the print data transmission unit 170 transmits the modified print data to the second image forming apparatus 200 (step S152). As a result, the print data acquisition unit 250 of the second image forming apparatus 200 acquires the modified print data. The second image forming apparatus 200 then performs printing on the print data (step S154). Specifically, in the second image forming apparatus 200, the print instruction unit 260 instructs the print unit 210 to print the acquired print data as described above. As a result, the print unit 210 prints the acquired print data.

[0120] Figures 12 to 15 are diagrams illustrating the differences between the comparative example and Embodiment 1. Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating the processing of the first image forming apparatus 101A according to the first comparative example. Here, the master first image forming apparatus 101A processes the first band data BD1. The slave second image forming apparatus 200A also processes the first band data BD1. The slave second image forming apparatus 200B processes the second band data BD2 and has the modification function described above.

[0121] As indicated by arrow S11, terminal device 10 transmits print data PD1, which includes the first band data BD1, to the first image forming apparatus 101A. Then, when the second image forming apparatus 200A requests print data from the first image forming apparatus 101A, as indicated by arrow S12, the first image forming apparatus 101A transmits the print data PD1 to the second image forming apparatus 200A. In this case, since the second image forming apparatus 200A can process the first band data BD1, the second image forming apparatus 200A can perform printing using the print data PD1. Therefore, an appropriate print result can be obtained.

[0122] On the other hand, when the second image forming apparatus 200B requests print data from the first image forming apparatus 101A, the first image forming apparatus 101A transmits print data PD1 to the second image forming apparatus 200B, as indicated by arrow S13. Here, the second image forming apparatus 200B processes the second band data BD2. Therefore, the second image forming apparatus 200B performs modification processing on the print data PD1 to generate print data PD2 that includes the second band data BD2. Then, the second image forming apparatus 200B can perform printing using the print data PD2. Thus, an appropriate print result can be obtained.

[0123] Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating the processing of the first image forming apparatus 101B according to the second comparative example. Here, the master first image forming apparatus 101B processes the second band data BD2. The slave second image forming apparatus 200C also processes the second band data BD2. The slave second image forming apparatus 200D processes the second band data BD2 and does not have the modification function described above.

[0124] As indicated by arrow S21, terminal device 10 transmits print data PD2, including second band data BD2, to first image forming apparatus 101B. Then, when the second image forming apparatus 200C requests print data from the first image forming apparatus 101B, as indicated by arrow S22, the first image forming apparatus 101B transmits print data PD2 to the second image forming apparatus 200C. In this case, since the second image forming apparatus 200C can process the second band data BD2, the second image forming apparatus 200C can perform printing using the print data PD2. Therefore, an appropriate print result can be obtained.

[0125] Furthermore, when the second image forming apparatus 200D requests print data from the first image forming apparatus 101B, the first image forming apparatus 101B transmits the print data PD2 to the second image forming apparatus 200D, as indicated by arrow S23. Here, since the second image forming apparatus 200D can process the second band data BD2, the second image forming apparatus 200D can perform printing using the print data PD2. Therefore, an appropriate print result can be obtained.

[0126] Figure 14 is a diagram illustrating the processing of the first image forming apparatus 101C according to the third comparative example. Here, the master first image forming apparatus 101C processes the first band data BD1. The slave second image forming apparatus 200A also processes the first band data BD1. The slave second image forming apparatus 200D processes the second band data BD2 and does not have the modification function described above.

[0127] As indicated by arrow S31, terminal device 10 transmits print data PD1, which includes the first band data BD1, to the first image forming apparatus 101C. Then, when the second image forming apparatus 200A requests print data from the first image forming apparatus 101C, as indicated by arrow S32, the first image forming apparatus 101C transmits the print data PD1 to the second image forming apparatus 200A. In this case, since the second image forming apparatus 200A can process the first band data BD1, the second image forming apparatus 200A can perform printing using the print data PD1. Therefore, an appropriate print result can be obtained.

[0128] On the other hand, when the second image forming apparatus 200D requests print data from the first image forming apparatus 101C, as indicated by arrow S33, the first image forming apparatus 101C sends print data PD1 to the second image forming apparatus 200D. Here, since the second image forming apparatus 200D processes the second band data BD2, it cannot perform printing using print data PD1. Furthermore, since the second image forming apparatus 200D does not have a modification function, it cannot convert print data PD1 to print data PD2. Therefore, there is a risk that an appropriate print result may not be obtained. Thus, in the comparative example, depending on the functions of the second image forming apparatus 200, there is a risk that an appropriate print result may not be obtained.

[0129] Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating the processing performed by the first image forming apparatus 100 according to Embodiment 1. Here, the first image forming apparatus 100 processes the first band data BD1. The second image forming apparatus 200A, which is a slave unit, also processes the first band data BD1. The second image forming apparatus 200D, which is a slave unit, processes the second band data BD2 and does not have the modification function described above.

[0130] As indicated by arrow S41, terminal device 10 transmits print data PD1, which includes the first band data BD1, to the first image forming apparatus 100. Then, suppose the second image forming apparatus 200A requests print data from the first image forming apparatus 100. Here, the second image forming apparatus 200A processes the first band data BD1. Therefore, as indicated by arrow S42, the first image forming apparatus 100 transmits the print data PD1 to the second image forming apparatus 200A as is, without performing any modification processing on the print data PD1. In this case, since the second image forming apparatus 200A can process the first band data BD1, it can perform printing using the print data PD1. Therefore, an appropriate print result can be obtained.

[0131] On the other hand, suppose the second image forming apparatus 200D requests print data from the first image forming apparatus 100. Here, the second image forming apparatus 200D processes the second band data BD2, which is different from the first band data BD1 of the print data PD1. Furthermore, the second image forming apparatus 200D does not have a modification function. Therefore, the first image forming apparatus 100 performs a modification process on the print data PD1 to change the longitudinal direction of the band data of the print data PD1. As a result, the first image forming apparatus 100 generates print data PD2 including the second band data BD2. Then, as shown by arrow S43, the first image forming apparatus 100 transmits the print data PD2 to the second image forming apparatus 200D. Here, since the second image forming apparatus 200D can process the second band data BD2, the second image forming apparatus 200D can perform printing using the print data PD2. Therefore, an appropriate print result can be obtained.

[0132] Thus, the first image forming apparatus 100 according to Embodiment 1 performs a modification process on the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data in accordance with a comparison between the print data related to the band data acquired by the first image forming apparatus 100 and the functions of the second image forming apparatus 200. As a result, the second image forming apparatus 200 according to Embodiment 1 can acquire print data that has been modified in accordance with the functions of the second image forming apparatus 200. Therefore, in Embodiment 1, an appropriate print result can be obtained regardless of the longitudinal direction of the band data included in the print data acquired by the first image forming apparatus 100 and the functions of the second image forming apparatus 200. Therefore, in Embodiment 1, convenience is improved compared to the comparative example.

[0133] In the above-described embodiment 1, it was assumed that the print data request or selection result transmitted by the second image forming apparatus 200 includes the first and second function information of the second image forming apparatus 200, but the configuration is not limited to this. The first image forming apparatus 100 may request the second image forming apparatus 200 to transmit the first and second function information. On the other hand, by including the first and second function information in the print data request or selection result transmitted by the second image forming apparatus 200, it becomes unnecessary for the first image forming apparatus 100 to request the second image forming apparatus 200 to transmit the first and second function information. Therefore, the processing of the first image forming apparatus 100 is simplified.

[0134] (Embodiment 2) Next, Embodiment 2 will be described. For clarity of explanation, the following descriptions and drawings have been omitted and simplified as appropriate. In addition, the same elements are denoted by the same reference numerals in each drawing, and redundant explanations have been omitted where necessary. Therefore, the following description will mainly focus on the differences from Embodiment 1 described above. Note that in Embodiment 2, the configuration of the processing system 1 is substantially the same as that of Embodiment 1, so its description will be omitted.

[0135] Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, the configuration of the first image forming apparatus 100 may be substantially the same as that of Embodiment 1, so its description will be omitted. Note that the first image forming apparatus 100 in Embodiment 2 does not necessarily have the selection result acquisition unit 144, the first function information acquisition unit 150, the second function information acquisition unit 151, the modification unit 160, and the print data transmission unit 170 shown in Figure 8. Hereinafter, Embodiment 2 differs from Embodiment 1 in that the second image forming apparatus 200 acquires print data from the terminal device 10. In other words, in Embodiment 2, it is the terminal device 10 that transmits print data to the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0136] Figure 16 shows the configuration of the terminal device 10 according to Embodiment 2. Similar to Embodiment 1 described above, the terminal device 10 according to Embodiment 2 has a main hardware configuration consisting of a processing unit 12, a storage unit 14, a communication unit 16, and an interface unit 18. Also, similar to Embodiment 1 described above, the terminal device 10 according to Embodiment 2 has as its components an OS 20, an application 30, a printer driver 40, a print data generation unit 50, and a first print data transmission unit 60. Furthermore, the terminal device 10 according to Embodiment 2 also has a print data storage unit 70, a selection result acquisition unit 72, a first function information acquisition unit 74, a second function information acquisition unit 75, a modification unit 76, and a second print data transmission unit 78. Note that the OS 20, application 30, printer driver 40, print data generation unit 50, and first print data transmission unit 60 are substantially the same as those in Embodiment 1, so their explanation is omitted.

[0137] The print data storage unit 70 stores the print data transmitted by the first print data transmission unit 60 to the first image forming apparatus 100. The print data storage unit 70 may be implemented by the storage unit 14. Alternatively, the print data storage unit 70 may be implemented by a spooler.

[0138] The selection result acquisition unit 72 may have substantially the same functions as the selection result acquisition unit 144 described above. The selection result acquisition unit 72 acquires the selection result of a print job from the second image forming apparatus 200. The selection result acquisition unit 72 may acquire the selection result when the communication unit 16 receives the selection result from the second image forming apparatus 200. The selection result may include first function information and second function information of the second image forming apparatus 200. The selection result may also indicate a print data request related to the print job selected by the user. In this case, the selection result acquisition unit 72 may function as a request acquisition unit that acquires the print data request acquired by the first image forming apparatus 100 from the second image forming apparatus.

[0139] The first function information acquisition unit 74 may have substantially the same functions as the first function information acquisition unit 150 described above. The first function information acquisition unit 74 acquires first function information relating to the second image forming apparatus 200. If the first function information is included in the selection result, the first function information acquisition unit 74 may acquire the first function information from the selection result. Alternatively, the first function information acquisition unit 74 may acquire the first function information from the second image forming apparatus 200 separately from the selection result. Furthermore, the first function information acquisition unit 74 may acquire the first function information in response to acquiring the selection result.

[0140] The second function information acquisition unit 75 may have substantially the same functions as the second function information acquisition unit 151 described above. The second function information acquisition unit 75 acquires second function information relating to the second image forming apparatus 200. If the second function information is included in the selection result, the second function information acquisition unit 75 may acquire the second function information from the selection result. Alternatively, the second function information acquisition unit 75 may acquire the second function information from the second image forming apparatus 200 separately from the selection result. Furthermore, the second function information acquisition unit 75 may acquire the second function information in response to acquiring the selection result.

[0141] The modification unit 76 may have substantially the same functions as the modification unit 160 described above. The modification unit 76 performs modification processing on the longitudinal direction of the band data in the acquired print data. In other words, the modification unit 76 performs modification processing on the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data corresponding to the print job shown in the selection result. The modification unit 76 performs modification processing on the print data stored in the print data storage unit 70. Specifically, the modification unit 76 performs modification processing on the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data based on the first function information. The modification unit 76 also performs modification processing on the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data based on the second function information. That is, the modification unit 76 compares the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data with the longitudinal direction of the band data shown in the second function information. Then, the modification unit 76 performs modification processing on the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data based on the comparison result.

[0142] More specifically, if the second image forming apparatus 200 can change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data, the modification unit 76 decides not to change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data. Also, if the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data matches the longitudinal direction of the band data indicated in the second functional information, the modification unit 76 decides not to change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data. On the other hand, if the second image forming apparatus 200 cannot change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data, and if the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data does not match the longitudinal direction of the band data indicated in the second functional information, the modification unit 76 changes the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data.

[0143] The second print data transmission unit 78 may have substantially the same functions as the print data transmission unit 170 described above. The second print data transmission unit 78 may transmit print data to the second image forming apparatus 200 by controlling the communication unit 16. The second print data transmission unit 78 transmits print data in which the longitudinal direction of the band data has been changed to the second image forming apparatus 200 when the first function information indicates "no change function" and the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data does not match the longitudinal direction of the band data indicated in the second function information. On the other hand, the second print data transmission unit 78 transmits print data in which the longitudinal direction of the band data has not been changed to the second image forming apparatus 200 when the first function information indicates "change function present". Furthermore, the second print data transmission unit 78 transmits print data in which the longitudinal direction of the band data has not been changed to the second image forming apparatus 200 when the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data matches the longitudinal direction of the band data indicated in the second function information.

[0144] Figure 17 shows the configuration of the second image forming apparatus 200 according to Embodiment 2. Similar to Embodiment 1 described above, the second image forming apparatus 200 according to Embodiment 2 has a processing unit 202, a storage unit 204, a communication unit 206, an interface unit 208, and a printing unit 210 as its main hardware configuration. Also, similar to Embodiment 1 described above, the second image forming apparatus 200 according to Embodiment 2 has a first function information storage unit 220, a second function information storage unit 222, an authentication unit 230, a request transmission unit 232, a print job information acquisition unit 240, a print job information display unit 242, and a print instruction unit 260 as its components. Furthermore, the second image forming apparatus 200 according to Embodiment 2 has a selection result transmission unit 244A and a print data acquisition unit 250A instead of a selection result transmission unit 244 and a print data acquisition unit 250A. Note that, of the components of the second image forming apparatus 200 according to Embodiment 2, the components other than the selection result transmission unit 244A and the print data acquisition unit 250A are substantially the same as those according to Embodiment 1, so their description will be omitted.

[0145] The selection result transmission unit 244A transmits the user's selection result to the terminal device 10. The selection result transmission unit 244A may also transmit the selection result to the terminal device 10 by controlling the communication unit 206. Note that the other functions of the selection result transmission unit 244A are substantially the same as those of the selection result transmission unit 244, so their explanation is omitted.

[0146] The print data acquisition unit 250A acquires print data from the terminal device 10. The print data acquisition unit 250A may also acquire print data when the communication unit 206 receives print data from the terminal device 10. If authentication is successful, the print data acquisition unit 250A acquires print data from the terminal device 10 for the authenticated user. Here, in the print data acquired by the print data acquisition unit 250A, a modification process is performed on the longitudinal direction of the band data in which the print target is separated, based on the longitudinal direction of the band data corresponding to the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0147] Figure 18 is a diagram showing the processing performed by the processing system 1 according to Embodiment 2. Figure 18 shows the processing method performed by the second image forming apparatus 200. Figure 18 shows a sequence diagram showing the processing method performed by the processing system 1 according to Embodiment 2.

[0148] Similar to the process in S100 shown in Figure 10 above, the terminal device 10 transmits the print data to the first image forming apparatus 100 (step S200). Also, similar to the process in S102 shown in Figure 10 above, in the first image forming apparatus 100, the print data acquisition unit 130 acquires the print data from the terminal device 10 (step S202). The print data storage unit 132 then stores the acquired print data (step S204). In addition, in the terminal device 10, the print data storage unit 70 stores the print data transmitted to the first image forming apparatus 100 as described above (step S206).

[0149] Similar to the process in S112 shown in Figure 10 above, the authentication unit 230 in the second image forming apparatus 200 performs user authentication (step S212). If authentication is successful, the request transmission unit 232 sends a print data request to the first image forming apparatus 100 (step S214). Then, similar to the process in S116 shown in Figure 10 above, the first image forming apparatus 100 transmits print job information in response to the print data request (step S216).

[0150] Similar to the process in S122 shown in Figure 10 above, the second image forming apparatus 200 displays print job information (step S222). Then, in the second image forming apparatus 200, the selection result transmission unit 244A transmits the user's selection result to the terminal device 10 as described above (step S224). As a result, the selection result acquisition unit 72 of the terminal device 10 acquires the print job selection result as described above. Also, in the terminal device 10, the first function information acquisition unit 74 acquires the first function information of the second image forming apparatus 200 as described above (step S230). Also, in the terminal device 10, the second function information acquisition unit 75 acquires the second function information of the second image forming apparatus 200 as described above (step S232).

[0151] Then, the terminal device 10 performs a modification process for changing the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data in substantially the same manner as the process shown in Figure 11 (step S240). Specifically, similar to the process of S142 shown in Figure 11 above, the modification unit 76 uses the first function information to determine whether the second image forming apparatus 200, which is a slave device, has a modification function. If the slave device has a modification function, similar to the process of S144 shown in Figure 11 above, the modification unit 76 determines that it will not change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data. On the other hand, if the slave device does not have a modification function, similar to the process of S146 shown in Figure 11 above, the modification unit 76 determines whether the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data matches the longitudinal direction of the band data processed by the second image forming apparatus 200, which is a slave device. If the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data matches the longitudinal direction of the band data processed by the slave device, the modification unit 76 determines that it will not change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data, similar to the process of S144 shown in Figure 11 above. On the other hand, if the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data does not match the longitudinal direction of the band data processed by the slave unit, the modification unit 76 changes the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data, similar to the process in S148 shown in Figure 11 above. Specifically, the modification unit 76 changes the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data to match the longitudinal direction of the band data processed by the slave unit.

[0152] In the terminal device 10, the second print data transmission unit 78 transmits the modified print data to the second image forming apparatus 200 (step S252). As a result, the print data acquisition unit 250A of the second image forming apparatus 200 acquires the modified print data. Then, similar to the process in S154 shown in Figure 10 above, the second image forming apparatus 200 performs printing processing on the print data (step S254).

[0153] Similar to Embodiment 1, the second image forming apparatus 200 in Embodiment 2 can acquire print data that has been modified according to the functions of the second image forming apparatus 200. Therefore, in Embodiment 2, similar to Embodiment 1, an appropriate print result can be obtained regardless of the longitudinal direction of the band data included in the print data acquired by the first image forming apparatus 100 and the functions of the second image forming apparatus 200. Therefore, in Embodiment 2, similar to Embodiment 1, convenience is improved.

[0154] In the above-described embodiment 2, the selection result transmitted by the second image forming apparatus 200 includes the first function information and the second function information of the second image forming apparatus 200, but the configuration is not limited to this. The terminal device 10 may request the second image forming apparatus 200 to transmit the first function information and the second function information. On the other hand, if the selection result transmitted by the second image forming apparatus 200 includes the first function information and the second function information, it becomes unnecessary for the terminal device 10 to request the second image forming apparatus 200 to transmit the first function information and the second function information. Therefore, the processing of the terminal device 10 is simplified.

[0155] (Embodiment 3) Next, Embodiment 3 will be described. For clarity of explanation, the following descriptions and drawings have been omitted and simplified as appropriate. In addition, the same elements are denoted by the same reference numerals in each drawing, and redundant explanations have been omitted where necessary. Therefore, the following description will mainly focus on the differences from Embodiment 1 described above. Note that in Embodiment 3, the configuration of the processing system 1 is substantially the same as that of Embodiment 1, so its description will be omitted.

[0156] Furthermore, in Embodiment 3, the configurations of the terminal device 10 and the second image forming apparatus 200 may be substantially the same as those in Embodiment 1, so their description will be omitted. Embodiment 3 differs from Embodiment 1 in that the first image forming apparatus 100 determines the functions (first function and second function) of the second image forming apparatus 200. That is, in Embodiment 3, the first image forming apparatus 100 determines whether the second image forming apparatus 200 has a modification function, and which band data the second image forming apparatus 200 processes. Therefore, in Embodiment 3, the print data request and selection result do not need to include the first function information and the second function information. Also, in Embodiment 3, the first image forming apparatus 100 does not need to request the first function information and the second function information from the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0157] Figure 19 shows the configuration of the first image forming apparatus 100 according to Embodiment 3. Similar to Embodiment 1 described above, the first image forming apparatus 100 according to Embodiment 3 has a processing unit 102, a storage unit 104, a communication unit 106, an interface unit 108, and a printing unit 110 as its main hardware configuration. Also, similar to Embodiment 1 described above, the first image forming apparatus 100 according to Embodiment 3 has a print data acquisition unit 130 and a print data storage unit 132 as its components. Also, the first image forming apparatus 100 according to Embodiment 3 has a request acquisition unit 140, a print job information transmission unit 142, a selection result acquisition unit 144, and a print data transmission unit 170 as its components. Also, the first image forming apparatus 100 according to Embodiment 3 has a model information acquisition unit 152, a model table storage unit 154, and a modification unit 160A instead of the first function information acquisition unit 150, the second function information acquisition unit 151, and the modification unit 160. In addition, of the components of the first image forming apparatus 100 according to Embodiment 3, the components other than the model information acquisition unit 152, the model table storage unit 154, and the modification unit 160A are substantially the same as those according to Embodiment 1, so their description will be omitted. In Embodiment 3, at least one of the print data request and selection result acquired by the first image forming apparatus 100 from the second image forming apparatus 200 may indicate the model information of the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0158] The machine information acquisition unit 152 acquires the machine information of the second image forming apparatus 200 that sent the print data request. The machine information indicates the model of the second image forming apparatus 200. The machine information may, for example, indicate the model number and manufacturer name of the second image forming apparatus 200. If the machine information is indicated in the print data request, the machine information acquisition unit 152 may acquire the machine information from the print data request. If the machine information is indicated in the selection result, the machine information acquisition unit 152 may acquire the machine information from the selection result. In addition, the machine information acquisition unit 152 may acquire the machine information from the second image forming apparatus 200 separately from the print data request and the selection result. In this case, the machine information acquisition unit 152 may acquire the machine information from the second image forming apparatus 200 in response to acquiring the print data request.

[0159] The model table storage unit 154 stores the model table. The model table storage unit 154 may be implemented by the storage unit 104. The model table indicates, for each model, whether or not that model has a modification function and which band data that model processes. In other words, the model table associates a model with its first function and second function. The model table storage unit 154 may be provided in a device such as a server that is communicatively connected to the first image forming apparatus 100.

[0160] Figure 20 is an example of a machine table according to Embodiment 3. In the example in Figure 20, the machine table shows that machine A does not have a function to change the longitudinal direction of the band data of the print data, and that the band data that machine A can process is "second band data BD2". The machine table also shows that machine B has a function to change the longitudinal direction of the band data of the print data, and that the band data that machine B can process is "first band data BD1 and second band data BD2". The machine table also shows that machine C does not have a function to change the longitudinal direction of the band data of the print data, and that the band data that machine C can process is "first band data BD1".

[0161] The modification unit 160A performs a modification process on the longitudinal direction of the band data of the print data based on the machine information. In other words, the modification unit 160A performs a modification process on the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data corresponding to the print job shown in the selection result, based on the machine information of the second image forming apparatus 200 that sent the print data request. The modification unit 160A uses the machine information and the machine table to perform a modification process on the longitudinal direction of the band data of the print data stored in the print data storage unit 132.

[0162] Specifically, the modification unit 160A uses the model information obtained from the second image forming apparatus 200 and the model table to determine the first and second functions of the second image forming apparatus 200. For example, in the example shown in Figure 20, if the model information indicates "Model A", the modification unit 160A determines that the second image forming apparatus 200 does not have a modification function and is capable of processing the second band data BD2. If the model information indicates "Model B", the modification unit 160A determines that the second image forming apparatus 200 has a modification function and is capable of processing the first band data BD1 and the second band data BD2. If the model information indicates "Model C", the modification unit 160A determines that the second image forming apparatus 200 does not have a modification function and is capable of processing the first band data BD1.

[0163] The modification unit 160A then performs a modification process to change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data based on the determined first and second functions. More specifically, the modification unit 160A modifies the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data when the second image forming apparatus 200 does not have a modification function and the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data does not match the longitudinal direction of the band data processed by the second image forming apparatus 200. On the other hand, the modification unit 160A does not modify the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data when the second image forming apparatus 200 has a modification function. Furthermore, the modification unit 160A does not modify the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data when the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data matches the longitudinal direction of the band data processed by the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0164] Figure 21 is a diagram showing the processing performed by the processing system 1 according to Embodiment 3. Figure 21 shows the processing method performed by the first image forming apparatus 100. Figure 21 shows a sequence diagram showing the processing method performed by the processing system 1 according to Embodiment 3.

[0165] Similar to the process in S100 shown in Figure 10 above, the terminal device 10 transmits the print data to the first image forming apparatus 100 (step S300). Similar to the process in S102 shown in Figure 10 above, the print data acquisition unit 130 in the first image forming apparatus 100 acquires the print data from the terminal device 10 (step S302). The print data storage unit 132 then stores the acquired print data (step S304).

[0166] Similar to the process in S112 shown in Figure 10 above, the authentication unit 230 in the second image forming apparatus 200 performs user authentication (step S312). If authentication is successful, the request transmission unit 232 sends a print data request to the first image forming apparatus 100 (step S314). Then, similar to the process in S116 shown in Figure 10 above, the first image forming apparatus 100 transmits print job information in response to the print data request (step S316).

[0167] Similar to the process in S122 shown in Figure 10 above, the second image forming apparatus 200 displays print job information (step S322). Then, similar to the process in S124 shown in Figure 10 above, the selection result transmission unit 244 in the second image forming apparatus 200 transmits the selection result to the first image forming apparatus 100 (step S324). As a result, the selection result acquisition unit 144 of the first image forming apparatus 100 acquires the print job selection result as described above.

[0168] In the first image forming apparatus 100, the model information acquisition unit 152 acquires model information as described above (step S326). The modification unit 160A determines the function of the second image forming apparatus 200, which is a slave unit, based on the model information as described above (step S328). Specifically, the modification unit 160A determines the first and second functions of the second image forming apparatus 200 based on the model information. Then, the modification unit 160A performs a modification process in the longitudinal direction of the band data of the print data (step S340). Here, the modification unit 160A performs a process that is substantially the same as the process in the flowchart shown in Figure 11.

[0169] Similar to the process in S152 shown in Figure 10 above, the print data transmission unit 170 in the first image forming apparatus 100 transmits the modified print data to the second image forming apparatus 200 (step S352). As a result, the print data acquisition unit 250 of the second image forming apparatus 200 acquires the modified print data. Then, similar to the process in S154 shown in Figure 10 above, the second image forming apparatus 200 performs printing processing on the print data (step S354).

[0170] Similar to Embodiment 1, the second image forming apparatus 200 according to Embodiment 3 can acquire print data that has been modified according to the functions of the second image forming apparatus 200. Therefore, in Embodiment 3, similar to Embodiment 1, an appropriate print result can be obtained regardless of the longitudinal direction of the band data included in the print data acquired by the first image forming apparatus 100 and the functions of the second image forming apparatus 200. Therefore, in Embodiment 3, convenience is improved, similar to Embodiment 1. Furthermore, in Embodiment 3, an appropriate print result can be obtained without the print data request and selection result including first and second function information.

[0171] (First modified example of Embodiment 3) Figure 22 shows the configuration of the first image forming apparatus 100 according to the first modification of Embodiment 3. The first image forming apparatus 100 according to the first modification has a slave machine table storage unit 156 and a modification unit 160B instead of the model information acquisition unit 152, model table storage unit 154, and modification unit 160A. Of the components of the first image forming apparatus 100 according to the first modification, the components other than the slave machine table storage unit 156 and the modification unit 160B are substantially the same as those according to Embodiment 3 described above, so their description is omitted. In the first modification, the print data request and selection result do not need to show the model information of the second image forming apparatus 200. As described above, at least one of the print data request and selection result shows the slave machine identification information, which is the identification information of the second image forming apparatus 200 that sent the print data request.

[0172] The slave unit table storage unit 156 stores the slave unit table. The slave unit table storage unit 156 may be implemented by the storage unit 104. The slave unit table indicates, for each slave unit, i.e., the second image forming apparatus 200, whether or not the second image forming apparatus 200 has a modification function, and which band data the second image forming apparatus 200 processes. In other words, the slave unit table associates the slave unit with its first function and second function. To put it another way, the slave unit table indicates function information that shows each function of the second image forming apparatus 200. In other words, the slave unit table storage unit 156 stores the function information of the second image forming apparatus 200. To put it another way, the first image forming apparatus 100 stores the function information of the second image forming apparatus 200. The slave unit table may be stored in the first image forming apparatus 100 during the initial communication setup between the first image forming apparatus 100 and the second image forming apparatus 200. Furthermore, the sub-unit table storage unit 156 may be provided in a device such as a server that is communicatively connected to the first image forming apparatus 100.

[0173] Figure 23 illustrates a slave unit table according to the first modification of Embodiment 3. In the example of Figure 23, the slave unit table shows that slave unit A does not have a function to change the longitudinal direction of the band data of the print data, and that the band data that slave unit A can process is "second band data BD2". The slave unit table also shows that slave unit B has a function to change the longitudinal direction of the band data of the print data, and that the band data that slave unit B can process is "first band data BD1 and second band data BD2". The slave unit table also shows that slave unit C does not have a function to change the longitudinal direction of the band data of the print data, and that the band data that slave unit C can process is "first band data BD1".

[0174] The modification unit 160B performs longitudinal modification processing of band data in print data based on the slave machine table stored in the first image forming apparatus 100, that is, the functional information of the second image forming apparatus 200. The modification unit 160B performs longitudinal modification processing of band data in print data corresponding to the print job shown in the selection result, based on the slave machine identification information of the second image forming apparatus 200 that sent the print data request. The modification unit 160B uses the slave machine identification information of the second image forming apparatus 200 and the slave machine table stored in the first image forming apparatus 100 to perform longitudinal modification processing of band data for print data stored in the print data storage unit 132.

[0175] Specifically, the modification unit 160B uses the slave unit identification information and slave unit table of the second image forming apparatus 200 to determine the first and second functions of the second image forming apparatus 200. For example, in the example shown in Figure 23, if the slave unit identification information indicates "Slave Unit A", the modification unit 160B determines that the second image forming apparatus 200 does not have a modification function and is capable of processing the second band data BD2. If the slave unit identification information indicates "Slave Unit B", the modification unit 160B determines that the second image forming apparatus 200 has a modification function and is capable of processing the first band data BD1 and the second band data BD2. If the slave unit identification information indicates "Slave Unit C", the modification unit 160B determines that the second image forming apparatus 200 does not have a modification function and is capable of processing the first band data BD1.

[0176] The modification unit 160B then performs a modification process to change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data based on the determined first and second functions. More specifically, the modification unit 160B modifies the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data when the second image forming apparatus 200 does not have a modification function and the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data does not match the longitudinal direction of the band data processed by the second image forming apparatus 200. On the other hand, the modification unit 160B does not modify the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data when the second image forming apparatus 200 has a modification function. Furthermore, the modification unit 160B does not modify the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data when the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data matches the longitudinal direction of the band data processed by the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0177] Thus, in the first modification of Embodiment 3, the modification unit 160B is configured to perform longitudinal modification processing of band data in print data based on the functional information of the second image forming apparatus 200 stored in the first image forming apparatus 100. As a result, the first image forming apparatus 100 does not need to acquire the first functional information and the second functional information from the second image forming apparatus 200 each time it acquires a print data request.

[0178] (Second modified example of Embodiment 3) Figure 24 shows the configuration of the first image forming apparatus 100 according to a second modification of Embodiment 3. The first image forming apparatus 100 according to the second modification has a first function information acquisition unit 150C, a second function information acquisition unit 151C, a change history storage unit 158, and a change unit 160C instead of a model information acquisition unit 152, a model table storage unit 154, and a change unit 160A. Of the components of the first image forming apparatus 100 according to the second modification, components other than the first function information acquisition unit 150C, the second function information acquisition unit 151C, the change history storage unit 158, and the change unit 160C are substantially the same as those according to Embodiment 3 described above, so their description is omitted. In the second modification, the print data request and selection result do not need to show the model information of the second image forming apparatus 200. As described above, at least one of the print data request and selection result shows the identification information of the second image forming apparatus 200 that sent the print data request.

[0179] The first function information acquisition unit 150C has substantially the same functions as the first function information acquisition unit 150 described above. However, it should be noted that the first function information acquisition unit 150C does not need to acquire the first function information again from the second image forming apparatus 200 once the first function information has been acquired.

[0180] The second function information acquisition unit 151C has substantially the same functions as the second function information acquisition unit 151 described above. However, it should be noted that the second function information acquisition unit 151C does not need to acquire the second function information again from the second image forming apparatus 200 once the second function information has been acquired.

[0181] The change history storage unit 158 ​​stores the change history. The change history storage unit 158 ​​may be implemented by the storage unit 104. The change history is a history of the change processing in the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data for each slave unit, i.e., the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0182] Figure 25 is a diagram illustrating the change history for a second modified example of Embodiment 3. In the example in Figure 25, the change history shows that in the change processing for slave unit A, when the band data in the print data acquired by the first image forming apparatus 100 is the first band data BD1, the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data was changed. The change history also shows that in the change processing for slave unit A, when the band data in the print data acquired by the first image forming apparatus 100 is the second band data BD2, the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data was not changed.

[0183] Furthermore, the change history indicates that, in the change processing for slave unit B, when the band data in the print data acquired by the first image forming apparatus 100 is the first band data BD1, the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data was not changed. Furthermore, the change history indicates that, in the change processing for slave unit B, when the band data in the print data acquired by the first image forming apparatus 100 is the second band data BD2, the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data was not changed. Furthermore, the change history indicates that, in the change processing for slave unit C, when the band data in the print data acquired by the first image forming apparatus 100 is the first band data BD1, the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data was changed. Furthermore, the change history indicates that, in the change processing for slave unit C, when the band data in the print data acquired by the first image forming apparatus 100 is the second band data BD2, the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data was changed.

[0184] The modification unit 160C performs modification processing on the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data based on the history of modification processing on the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data. Specifically, in the first modification processing for a certain band data of a certain second image forming apparatus 200, it performs processing substantially the same as that of the modification unit 160 in Embodiment 1. In other words, the modification unit 160C performs modification processing on the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data based on the first function information acquired by the first function information acquisition unit 150C, the second function information acquired by the second function information acquisition unit 151C, and the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data. The modification unit 160C then stores the history of the modification processing in the modification history storage unit 158.

[0185] On the other hand, for subsequent modification processes of a certain band data by the second image forming apparatus 200, the modification unit 160C uses the modification history stored in the modification history storage unit 158 ​​to perform modification processing in the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data. For example, in the example in Figure 25, if the second image forming apparatus 200 that sent the print data request is slave unit B, the modification unit 160C refers to the modification history and determines that the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data should not be changed.

[0186] Furthermore, if the second image forming apparatus 200 that sent the print data request is slave unit A, and the band data in the print data is the first band data BD1, the modification unit 160C refers to the modification history and changes the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data. Also, if the second image forming apparatus 200 that sent the print data request is slave unit A, and the band data in the print data is the second band data BD2, the modification unit 160C refers to the modification history and determines that the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data should not be changed.

[0187] Furthermore, if the second image forming apparatus 200 that sent the print data request is slave unit C, and the band data in the print data is the first band data BD1, the modification unit 160C refers to the modification history and determines that the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data should not be changed. Furthermore, if the second image forming apparatus 200 that sent the print data request is slave unit C, and the band data in the print data is the second band data BD2, the modification unit 160C refers to the modification history and changes the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data.

[0188] Thus, in the second modification of Embodiment 3, the modification unit 160C is configured to change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data based on the history of processing for changing the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data, which is stored in the first image forming apparatus 100. As a result, the first image forming apparatus 100 does not need to acquire the first function information and the second function information from the second image forming apparatus 200 each time it acquires a print data request.

[0189] (modified version) It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, the order of each process in the sequence diagram and flowchart described above can be changed as appropriate. Furthermore, the multiple embodiments described above are applicable to each other. For example, Embodiment 3 is applicable not only to Embodiment 1 but also to Embodiment 2.

[0190] Furthermore, one or more of the processes in the sequence diagram and flowchart described above may be omitted. For example, the order of processes S142 and S146 shown in Figure 11 may be reversed. In this case, the modification unit 160 may perform process S146, and if the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data does not match the longitudinal direction of the band data processed by the slave unit, it may perform process S142. Also, process S130 may be performed at any timing before process S142. Also, process S132 may be performed at any timing before process S146.

[0191] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the first image forming apparatus 100 changes the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data when transmitting print data to the second image forming apparatus 200 which does not have a modification function. On the other hand, the terminal device 10 may always transmit print data to the first image forming apparatus 100 that is aligned with the longitudinal direction of the band data that can be processed by the second image forming apparatus 200 which does not have a modification function. For example, if the band data that can be processed by the second image forming apparatus 200 which does not have a modification function is the first band data BD1, the terminal device 10 may always transmit print data consisting of the first band data BD1 to the first image forming apparatus 100. Then, when the first image forming apparatus 100 processes the second band data BD2 and performs printing, it can use the modification function to convert the first band data BD1 to the second band data BD2 and perform printing. Furthermore, when the second image forming apparatus 200, which has a modification function and processes the second band data BD2, requests print data, the first image forming apparatus 100 transmits the print data, which consists of the first band data BD1, to the second image forming apparatus 200. The second image forming apparatus 200 then uses its modification function to convert the first band data BD1 to the second band data BD2 and proceeds with printing. This eliminates the need for the first image forming apparatus 100 to change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data according to the functions of the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0192] In the examples described above, the program includes a set of instructions (or software code) that, when loaded into a computer, cause the computer to perform one or more of the functions described in the embodiments. The program may be stored on a non-temporary computer-readable medium or a physical storage medium. Examples, but not limited to, include random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, solid-state drive (SSD) or other memory technologies, CD-ROM, digital versatile disk (DVD), Blu-ray® disc or other optical disc storage, magnetic cassette, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices. The program may be transmitted over a temporary computer-readable medium or a communication medium. Examples, but not limited to, include electrical, optical, acoustic or other forms of propagating signals. The program may also be included in a program product. [Explanation of symbols]

[0193] 1…Processing system, 2…Network, 10…Terminal device, 12…Processing unit, 14…Storage unit, 16…Communication unit, 18…Interface unit, 30…Application, 40…Printer driver, 50…Print data generation unit, 60…First print data transmission unit, 70…Print data storage unit, 72…Selection result acquisition unit, 74…First function information acquisition unit, 75…Second function information acquisition unit, 76…Change unit, 78…Second print data transmission unit, 92…Print head unit, 92a…Print head, 94…Print head, 100…First image forming apparatus, 102…Processing unit, 104…Storage unit, 106…Communication unit, 108…Interface unit, 110…Printing unit, 112…Transport mechanism, 114…Printing mechanism, 130…Print data acquisition unit, 132…Print data storage unit, 140… Request acquisition unit, 142... Print job information transmission unit, 144... Selection result acquisition unit, 150... First function information acquisition unit, 151... Second function information acquisition unit, 152... Model information acquisition unit, 154... Model table storage unit, 156... Slave machine table storage unit, 158... Change history storage unit, 160... Change unit, 170... Print data transmission unit, 200... Second image forming apparatus, 202... Processing unit, 204... Storage unit, 206... Communication unit, 208... Interface unit, 210... Printing unit, 212... Transport mechanism, 214... Printing mechanism, 220... First function information storage unit, 222... Second function information storage unit, 230... Authentication unit, 232... Request transmission unit, 240... Print job information acquisition unit, 242... Print job information display unit, 244... Selection result transmission unit, 250... Print data acquisition unit, 260... Print instruction unit

Claims

1. The first image forming apparatus, A print data acquisition unit acquires print data from a terminal device that includes either first band data, which is band data delimited with the first direction of the print target as the longitudinal direction, or second band data, which is band data delimited with the second direction intersecting the first direction of the print target as the longitudinal direction. A modification unit that performs longitudinal modification processing on the band data in the acquired print data, A print data transmission unit transmits print data, which has undergone longitudinal modification processing of the band data, to a second image forming apparatus. A first image forming apparatus having the following:

2. A first function information acquisition unit acquires first function information indicating whether the second image forming apparatus can change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data. It further possesses, The modification unit performs a modification process in the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data based on the first functional information. The first image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

3. A second function information acquisition unit acquires second function information indicating whether the second image forming apparatus will process the first band data or the second band data. It further possesses, The modification unit performs modification processing on the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data based on the comparison result obtained by comparing the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data with the longitudinal direction of the band data shown in the second functional information. The first image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

4. The modification unit modifies the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data when the second image forming apparatus is unable to change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data, and when the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data does not match the longitudinal direction of the band data shown in the second functional information. The first image forming apparatus according to claim 3.

5. A request acquisition unit that acquires the request for print data acquired by the first image forming apparatus from the second image forming apparatus. It further possesses, The modification unit determines whether or not to change the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data in response to receiving the request. The first image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

6. The request acquisition unit acquires the request from the second image forming apparatus when the user authentication in the second image forming apparatus is successful. The first image forming apparatus according to claim 5.

7. The print data transmission unit transmits print data relating to the user whose authentication has been successful to the second image forming apparatus. The first image forming apparatus according to claim 6.

8. Model information acquisition unit that acquires model information of the second image forming apparatus, It further possesses, The modification unit performs a modification process in the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data based on the model information. The first image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

9. The modification unit performs a modification process in the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data based on functional information indicating the function of the second image forming apparatus stored in the first image forming apparatus. The first image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

10. The modification unit performs the modification process in the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data based on the history of modification processes in the longitudinal direction of the band data in the print data. The first image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

11. A second image forming apparatus, The authentication unit performs user authentication, If the authentication is successful, the print data acquisition unit acquires print data from the first image forming apparatus that acquired the print data from the terminal device or from the terminal device that transmitted the print data to the first image forming apparatus. A printing unit that prints the acquired print data, It has, In the print data acquired by the print data acquisition unit, the longitudinal direction of the band data, which is used to delineate the print target, is modified based on the longitudinal direction of the band data corresponding to the second image forming apparatus. Second image forming device.

12. A processing method performed by a first image forming apparatus, The terminal device acquires print data that includes either first band data, which is band data delimited with the first direction of the print target as the longitudinal direction, or second band data, which is band data delimited with the second direction intersecting the first direction of the print target as the longitudinal direction. The acquired print data is processed to change the longitudinal direction of the band data. The printed data, which has undergone processing to change the longitudinal direction of the band data, is transmitted to the second image forming apparatus. Processing method.

Images