Information Processing Apparatus and Program

Abstract

To prevent a deliverer from performing an inappropriate action when the deliverer prints, as proxy using an image forming apparatus, data transmitted by a sender, and delivers, to a designated recipient, the printed matter having been thus printed.SOLUTION: An information processing server 200 receives print data and recipient information from a sender terminal device 100, issues identification information associated with the received print data, transmits a printing request including the identification information to a deliverer terminal device 300, transmits the print data to an image forming apparatus 400 when it receives identification information inputted by the deliverer from the image forming apparatus 400, acquires a monitoring image for monitoring printing work performed by the deliverer, notifies the sender terminal device 100 so as to confirm and approve the monitoring image, and transmits the recipient information to at least one of the deliverer terminal device 300 and the image forming apparatus 400 in the case of receiving approval of the monitoring image from the sender terminal device 100.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In Patent Document 1 below, a requester brings distribution data corresponding to a printed matter to be distributed and data related to the recipient to a print shop, performs a request process on a server using a terminal installed in the print shop, and the server that has received the request considers the output method, the recipient's address, and the print shop information, searches for the optimal print shop from among them, and discloses a print distribution system that notifies the recipient of which print shop can output the distribution data.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] There is a service in which a delivery person prints on behalf of a sender using an image forming apparatus the print data transmitted by the sender, and delivers the printed matter to a designated recipient. In this service, since the delivery person actually performs the printing, the sender may perform actions such as the delivery person stealing a peek at the printed matter or removing the printed matter.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to prevent inappropriate actions by a delivery person when the delivery person prints on behalf of a sender using an image forming apparatus the print data transmitted by the sender, and delivers the printed matter to a designated recipient.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The information processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention is comprising a processor, wherein the processor, receives print data and recipient information of a printed matter printed with the print data from a sender's terminal device, issues identification information associated with the received print data, and transmits a print request including the identification information to a terminal device of a delivery person who delivers the printed matter, when receiving the identification information input by the delivery person from an image forming apparatus, transmits the print data associated with the identification information to the image forming apparatus, acquires a monitoring image for monitoring a printing operation of the print data performed by the delivery person using the image forming apparatus, and notifies the sender's terminal device to confirm and approve the monitoring image, and when receiving approval of the monitoring image from the sender's terminal device, transmits the recipient information to at least one of the delivery person's terminal device and the image forming apparatus, and is an information processing apparatus.

[0007] The information processing apparatus according to the second aspect of the present invention is the information processing apparatus according to the first aspect, wherein the monitoring image monitors a situation of a printing operation of the print data performed by the delivery person using the image forming apparatus and a situation of an encapsulation operation of the printed matter printed with the print data.

[0008] The information processing apparatus according to the third aspect of the present invention is the information processing apparatus according to the first aspect or the second aspect, wherein the processor acquires the monitoring image from a terminal device possessed by the delivery person.

[0009] The information processing apparatus according to the fourth aspect of the present invention is the information processing apparatus according to the first aspect or the second aspect, wherein the processor acquires the monitoring image from an imaging device that includes at least a part of the image forming apparatus in which the identification information is input in the field of view.

[0010] The information processing apparatus according to the fifth aspect of the present invention is any one of the information processing apparatuses according to the first aspect to the fourth aspect, wherein the monitoring image is a moving image.

[0011] The information processing apparatus according to the sixth aspect of the present invention is the information processing apparatus according to the fifth aspect, wherein the processor acquires the moving image as streaming video.

[0012] The information processing apparatus according to the seventh aspect of the present invention is the information processing apparatus according to the fifth aspect, wherein the processor starts acquiring the monitoring image from the time when printing of the print data associated with the identification information starts using the image forming apparatus, and ends when the enclosing work of the printed matter ends.

[0013] The information processing apparatus according to the eighth aspect of the present invention is any one of the information processing apparatuses according to the fifth to seventh aspects, wherein the processor transmits the moving image as streaming video to the terminal device of the sender.

[0014] The information processing apparatus according to the ninth aspect of the present invention is any one of the information processing apparatuses according to the first to fourth aspects, wherein the monitoring image is a still image that captures the progress of work at a preset time.

[0015] The information processing apparatus according to the tenth aspect of the present invention is any one of the information processing apparatuses according to the first to ninth aspects, wherein the processor transmits connection information for confirming the acquired monitoring image to the terminal device of the sender.

[0016] The information processing apparatus according to the eleventh aspect of the present invention is the information processing apparatus according to the third aspect, wherein the processor acquires and transmits the monitoring image by connecting the terminal device of the sender and the terminal device of the delivery person via a video call.

[0017] The program according to the twelfth aspect of the present invention receiving print data and recipient information for receiving the printed matter printed with the print data from the terminal device of the sender; issuing identification information associated with the received print data, and transmitting a print request including the identification information to the terminal device of a delivery person who delivers the printed matter; When the image forming apparatus receives the identification information input by the delivery person, transmitting the print data associated with the identification information to the image forming apparatus; Obtaining a monitoring image for monitoring the printing operation of the print data performed by the delivery person using the image forming apparatus, and notifying the terminal device of the sender to confirm and approve the monitoring image; When receiving approval of the monitoring image from the terminal device of the sender, causing a computer to execute a step of transmitting the recipient information to at least one of the terminal device of the delivery person and the image forming apparatus.

Advantages of the Invention

[0018] According to the information processing apparatus of the first aspect of the present invention, when the delivery person prints on behalf of the sender using the image forming apparatus and delivers the printed matter to the designated recipient, it is possible to prevent inappropriate behavior by the delivery person.

[0019] According to the information processing apparatus of the second aspect of the present invention, it is possible to make the printed matter deliverable to the recipient only when the printing operation and the enclosing operation by the delivery person are correctly performed.

[0020] According to the information processing apparatus of the third aspect of the present invention, it is possible to prevent the delivery person from photographing the printed matter itself with the terminal device in his or her possession.

[0021] According to the information processing apparatus of the fourth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to monitor the entire printing operation by the delivery person.

[0022] According to the information processing apparatus of the fifth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to monitor the printing operation and the enclosing operation by the delivery person without interruption.

[0023] According to the information processing apparatus of the sixth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to obtain a moving image of the monitoring image for monitoring the printing operation and the enclosing operation by the delivery person without delay with respect to the progress of the operation.

[0024] According to the information processing apparatus of the seventh aspect of the present invention, it is possible to monitor the work of the delivery person over the entire period from the printing of the print data to the end of the enclosing work.

[0025] According to the information processing apparatus of the eighth aspect of the present invention, it is no longer necessary to save the file of the moving image of the monitoring image in the sender terminal device.

[0026] According to the information processing apparatus of the ninth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to reduce the data capacity of the monitoring image to be transmitted as compared with the case of transmitting a moving image.

[0027] According to the information processing apparatus of the tenth aspect of the present invention, it becomes possible to download and play back or stream and play back the monitoring image using the connection information from the sender terminal device.

[0028] According to the information processing apparatus of the eleventh aspect of the present invention, it is possible to confirm in real time the monitoring image captured in the delivery person terminal device in the sender terminal device.

[0029] According to the program of the twelfth aspect of the present invention, when the delivery person prints on behalf of the sender the print data transmitted by the sender using the image forming apparatus and delivers the printed matter to the designated recipient, it is possible to prevent inappropriate behavior by the delivery person.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0030]

Figure 1

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0031] [First Embodiment] A document printing and delivery system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiments are for exemplifying an information processing server 200 as an example of the information processing apparatus of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the present invention to the following embodiments.

[0032] FIG. 1 is an overall conceptual diagram showing an example of the document printing and delivery system 10. As shown in FIG. 1, the document printing and delivery system 10 includes a sender terminal device 100 operated by a sender, an information processing server 200, a delivery person terminal device 300 held by a delivery person, and an image forming device 400, and is connected to each other by a network such as the Internet 500.

[0033] As will be described later, the general flow of processing in this document printing and delivery system 10 is as follows. First, the print data created or acquired by the sender terminal device 100 and the recipient information of the delivery destination are transmitted from the sender terminal device 100 to the information processing server 200. When the information processing server 200 receives the print data, it issues identification information and transmits it to the delivery person terminal device 300. The delivery person who receives the identification information via the delivery person terminal device 300 moves to the location where the image forming device 400 is installed and inputs the identification information into the image forming device 400. Then, the image forming device 400 acquires the print data associated with the identification information from the information processing server 200 and executes printing. Next, a monitoring image for monitoring the printing work and encapsulation work of the print data performed by the delivery person using the image forming device 400 is captured by the delivery person terminal device 300, and the monitoring image is transmitted from the delivery person terminal device 300 to the information processing server 200. When the information processing server 200 acquires the monitoring image from the delivery person terminal device 300, it generates connection information for confirming the acquired monitoring image, and transmits and notifies the sender terminal device 100. The sender uses the connection information to reproduce and confirm the monitoring image, and determines whether to approve the work of the delivery person. When the information processing server 200 receives approval of the monitoring image from the sender terminal device 100, it transmits the recipient information to the delivery person terminal device 300. Finally, the delivery person delivers the printed document to the recipient according to the recipient information.

[0034] Note that in this document printing and delivery system 10, there may be a plurality of sender terminal devices 100, delivery person terminal devices 300, and image forming devices 400, and each may be connected to the Internet 500. However, in this first embodiment, for the sake of simplicity of explanation, a case where only one of each is connected to the Internet 500 will be described.

[0035] The sender terminal device 100 is owned or operated by the sender who requests printing of print data, and is a portable terminal device such as a tablet computer or a smartphone, or a notebook personal computer or a desktop personal computer. The sender operates the user interface of the sender terminal device 100 by operating the application software installed in the sender terminal device 100, and creates print data to be printed using the image forming apparatus 400. The sender terminal device 100 transmits the created print data to the information processing server 200. Note that the print data may be created in the sender terminal device 100 or may be acquired from another location via a network.

[0036] Here, the "print data" refers to electronic data that can be image-formed, which is created in the sender terminal device 100 or acquired by the sender terminal device 100 from a server (not shown) connected via a network such as the Internet 500. This electronic data that can be image-formed includes document file data, image file data, a document file, or file data in PDL format obtained by converting a document file or an image file for image formation. Also, the "printed matter" refers to what is obtained by image-forming print data on a paper surface or an image-formable recording medium such as an article using the image forming apparatus 400, and refers to the paper or article after the print data has been printed.

[0037] In addition, the sender terminal device 100 inputs information of the recipient, who is the party that receives the printed matter printed with the print data, or acquires it from another location via a network, and generates recipient information. This recipient information is information composed of information on the delivery destination of the printed matter, such as the address or place of residence of the recipient, and information such as the name and contact information of the recipient, and the delivery person delivers the printed matter according to this recipient information.

[0038] Note that the assignment of the delivery person is performed by the information processing server 200. For example, the information processing server 200 solicits delivery persons who wish to make a delivery from among the pre-registered delivery persons, and designates the first delivery person who expresses a wish as the delivery person in charge of the current delivery. Alternatively, the assignment of the delivery person may be performed by designating a delivery company that manages the delivery person who delivers the printed matter printed by the image forming apparatus 400 to the recipient. In that case, when the information processing server 200 transmits a delivery request to a server of a delivery company (not shown), a delivery person is selected by the server of the delivery company, and the delivery person terminal device 300 possessed by the delivery person is specified. Alternatively, the assignment of the delivery person may be performed by the sender directly selecting the information of the delivery person. However, in the following description, it is assumed that the delivery person is designated by the information processing server 200.

[0039] As will be described later, the sender terminal device 100 is also used for the sender to confirm or approve a monitoring image of the work of the delivery person uploaded to the information processing server 200.

[0040] Although the information processing server 200 will be described later, it issues identification information for identifying the print data received from the sender terminal device 100 and transmits this identification information to the delivery person terminal device 300. Further, when the information processing server 200 receives the identification information from the image forming apparatus 400, it transmits the print data associated with the identification information to the image forming apparatus 400. Furthermore, the information processing server 200 requests the delivery person terminal device 300 to capture a monitoring video for monitoring the printing status in the image forming apparatus 400 and the enclosing work by the delivery person, and receives and stores the monitoring image from the delivery person terminal device 300. In addition, the information processing server 200 generates connection information to the storage location of the monitoring image and transmits it to the sender terminal device 100. When the sender confirms and approves the monitoring image, the information processing server 200 transmits the recipient information to the delivery person terminal device 300.

[0041] The delivery person's terminal device 300 is owned or operated by a delivery person who prints print data using the image forming device 400 and delivers it to the recipient. Specifically, the delivery person's terminal device 300 is a portable terminal device such as a tablet computer, a smart phone, or a small notebook personal computer. This delivery person's terminal device 300 has a built-in camera. Then, the delivery person's terminal device 300 receives a print request from the information processing server 200. This delivery request includes identification information for identifying the print data. The delivery person moves to the location where the image forming device 400 is installed and inputs this identification information into the image forming device 400 to print the print data.

[0042] Furthermore, when the delivery person's terminal device 300 receives a request from the information processing server 200 to take a surveillance image, it takes pictures of the printing operation and the encapsulation operation using the image forming device 400 by the delivery person with the built-in camera of the device itself. Then, the taken image is transmitted to the information processing server 200 as a surveillance image. In this embodiment, the "surveillance image" is an image obtained by monitoring and photographing the status of the printing operation of the print data performed by the delivery person using the image forming device 400 and the status of the encapsulation operation of the printed matter on which the print data is printed. It is desirable that both the status of the printing operation and the encapsulation operation are included in the surveillance image, but at least one of them may be included. Also, the surveillance image may be an image or video that continuously captures the actions of the delivery person for a preset period from the start of printing using the image forming device 400.

[0043] Also, the delivery person's terminal device 300 receives recipient information from the information processing server 200. The delivery person delivers the printed and encapsulated printed matter to the delivery destination included in this recipient information.

[0044] The image forming apparatus 400 is installed in a convenience store or a printing agency store. Regarding the image forming apparatus 400, as will be described later, it receives the input of identification information by a delivery person and transmits the input identification information to the information processing server 200. When the transmitted identification information is correct, print data associated with the identification information is transmitted from the information processing server 200. The image forming apparatus 400 prints the received print data. Then, for the printed material, the sender approves the printing work and the encapsulation work by the delivery person, whereupon the delivery destination is notified and delivery becomes possible, and the delivery person delivers it to the recipient.

[0045] Next, with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, the information processing server 200 will be described. FIG. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of the information processing server 200, and FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of the information processing server 200. As shown in FIG. 2, the information processing server 200 includes a CPU 201, a memory 202, a storage device 203, and a communication interface 204, each of which is connected to a control bus 205.

[0046] The CPU 201 is a control microprocessor that controls the operations of each part of the information processing server 200 based on a control program stored in the storage device 203.

[0047] The memory 202 temporarily stores the print data received from the sender terminal device 100, the recipient information, and the surveillance images received from the delivery person terminal device 300.

[0048] The storage device 203 is composed of a hard disk drive (abbreviated as HDD) or a solid state drive (abbreviated as SSD), and stores a control program for controlling each part of the information processing server 200. In this embodiment, the form in which the control program is installed in the storage device 203 has been described, but it is not limited thereto. The control program according to this embodiment may be provided in a form recorded on a computer-readable storage medium. For example, the control program according to this embodiment may be provided in a form recorded on an optical disk such as a CD (Compact Disc)-ROM and a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc)-ROM, or in a form recorded on a semiconductor memory such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory and a memory card. Also, the control program according to this embodiment may be acquired from an external device via a communication line connected to the communication interface 204.

[0049] In addition, the storage device 203 stores the print data received from the sender terminal device 100 and the surveillance images received from the delivery person terminal device 300. Also, in the storage device 203, the received person information, the identification information described later, and the surveillance images are stored in association with the print data.

[0050] The communication interface 204 performs communication control for communicating with the sender terminal device 100, the delivery person terminal device 300, and the image forming device 400 connected via the Internet.

[0051] Also, as shown in FIG. 3, the information processing server 200 exhibits functions as a data reception unit 211, a data storage unit 212, a print request unit 213, a work monitoring approval unit 214, a delivery instruction unit 215, and a charge billing unit 216 by executing the control program stored in the storage device 203.

[0052] The data receiving unit 211 receives from the sender terminal device 100 the print data created or acquired in the sender terminal device 100 and the recipient information for receiving the printed matter printed with the print data, and stores them in the data storage unit 212.

[0053] The data storage unit 212 stores the print data and the recipient information received by the data receiving unit 211 in association with each other. Further, the data storage unit 212 stores the print data, the identification information (to be described later) for identifying the print data, and the monitoring image received from the delivery person terminal device 300 in association with each other.

[0054] The print request unit 213 issues identification information associated with the print data received by the data receiving unit 211, and transmits a print request including the identification information to the delivery person terminal device 300 possessed by a delivery person who delivers the printed matter. The identification information is specific information for uniquely specifying the print data stored in the data storage unit 212. Specifically, the identification information is a URL indicating the storage location of the print data, an identification number issued in the order in which the print data is received, a sequence of numbers issued randomly or artificially so as not to overlap with other identification information, or a character string.

[0055] Also, the print request unit 213 waits to receive the identification information from the image forming apparatus 400. When receiving the identification information input by the delivery person from the image forming apparatus 400, the print request unit 213 acquires the print data associated with the identification information from the data storage unit 212, transmits the print data to the image forming apparatus 400, and requests printing.

[0056] When the print data is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 400, the operation monitoring approval unit 214 acquires a monitoring image for monitoring the print operation and the encapsulation operation of the print data performed by the delivery person using the image forming apparatus 400, and notifies the sender terminal device 100 to confirm and approve the monitoring image. Specifically, the operation monitoring approval unit 214 transmits a request for capturing a monitoring image to the delivery person terminal device 300. Note that, as described above, the "monitoring image" is for monitoring the operation when the delivery person prints image data using the image forming apparatus 400 and encapsulates the printed matter. The monitoring image includes visible information such as a moving image, a streaming video, a still image, etc., that captures at least one or both of the printing operation and the encapsulation operation. Note that the printing operation includes the process of outputting the printed matter from the image forming apparatus 400 and the actions of the delivery person before and after that. In addition, the encapsulation operation includes the process of the delivery person putting the output printed matter into an envelope or the like and completing the sealing, and the actions of the delivery person before and after that, for example, folding the printed matter and stapling the printed matter. Also, the monitoring image captures the actions of the delivery person handling the printed matter, and does not simply capture the printed printed matter only.

[0057] Then, when the operation monitoring approval unit 214 receives the monitoring image captured by the delivery person terminal device 300 from the delivery person terminal device 300, it stores it in the data storage unit 212. In addition, the operation monitoring approval unit 214 generates connection information for confirming the stored monitoring image, and transmits this connection information to the sender terminal device 100. The connection information may be transmitted to the contact information of the sender, such as the sender's email address or SMS contact. The connection information is position specifying information for uniquely specifying the monitoring image. For example, the connection information may be a URL that specifies the location where the monitoring image is stored, or the location on the network where the monitoring image is played back, or a character string or a sequence of numbers issued artificially or randomly so as not to overlap with other connection information.

[0058] Furthermore, the work monitoring approval unit 214 accepts the connection by the sender terminal device 100, enabling the sender to play and check the monitoring images. Also, the work monitoring approval unit 214 sends an approval request to the sender terminal device 100 to request the sender to check and approve the monitoring images. Furthermore, when the work monitoring approval unit 214 receives the approval of the monitoring images from the sender via the sender terminal device 100, it permits the delivery instruction unit 215 to send the recipient information to the delivery person terminal device 300.

[0059] When the work monitoring approval unit 214 permits the transmission of the recipient information, the delivery instruction unit 215 acquires the recipient information stored in the data storage unit 212 and sends it to the delivery person terminal device 300. The recipient information may be sent directly to the delivery person terminal device 300 itself, or may be sent to the email address or SMS contact of the delivery person terminal device 300.

[0060] When the delivery instruction unit 215 sends the recipient information to the delivery person terminal device 300, the charge billing unit 216 performs a charging process on the sender. Specifically, the charge billing unit 216 calculates the amount of print data and the charge determined according to the delivery destination indicated by the recipient information for the sender terminal device 100, and sends the billing information including the charge information. Alternatively, the charge billing unit 216 accumulates the information on the print and delivery requests made by the sender within a certain period, calculates the corresponding amount, and charges the sender.

[0061] Next, the image forming apparatus 400 will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5. FIG. 4 is a hardware configuration diagram of the image forming apparatus 400, and FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram of the image forming apparatus 400. As shown in FIG. 4, the image forming apparatus 400 includes a CPU 401, a memory 402, a storage device 403, an input device 404, a display device 405, an image forming unit 406, and a communication interface 407, which are respectively connected to a control bus 408.

[0062] The CPU 401 is a control microprocessor that controls the operations of each part of the image forming apparatus 400 based on the control program stored in the storage device 403.

[0063] The memory 402 temporarily stores print data to be printed by the image forming unit 406 of the present image forming apparatus 400.

[0064] The storage device 403 is composed of a hard disk drive (abbreviated as HDD) or a solid state drive (abbreviated as SSD), and stores a control program for controlling each part of the present image forming apparatus 400. In this embodiment, a form in which the control program of the image forming apparatus 400 is installed in the storage device 403 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The control program according to this embodiment may be provided in a form recorded on a computer-readable storage medium. For example, the control program according to this embodiment may be provided in a form recorded on an optical disk such as a CD (Compact Disc)-ROM and a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc)-ROM, or in a form recorded on a semiconductor memory such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory and a memory card. Further, the control program according to this embodiment may be acquired from an external device via a communication line connected to the communication interface 407.

[0065] The input device 404 is a touch panel formed on the surface of the display device 405 described later. By operating the touch panel by the delivery person, the input of identification information by the delivery person can be received, and menu operations when performing image formation can be performed. The input device 404 may include a mechanical input device such as an input keyboard and an input button provided in the present image forming apparatus 400 or separately arranged in addition to the touch panel.

[0066] The display device 405 is a liquid crystal display provided in the present image forming apparatus 400, and displays various screens including messages for the delivery person and menu screens for operating the image forming apparatus 400.

[0067] The image forming unit 406 executes the document data transmitted from the information processing server 200 as a print job, and prints the print data to be delivered by a delivery person on a recording medium such as a paper sheet.

[0068] The communication interface 407 performs communication control for communicating with the information processing server 200 connected via the Internet 500 through a LAN cable (not shown) or via a wireless LAN.

[0069] Also, as shown in FIG. 5, the image forming apparatus 400 exhibits the functions of a print waiting unit 411, a print data request unit 412, a data receiving unit 413, and an image forming unit 414 by executing the control program stored in the storage device 403.

[0070] The print waiting unit 411 displays a waiting screen and a menu screen on the display device 405, and waits for the delivery person to operate the input device 404 to input identification information.

[0071] When the delivery person operates the input device 404 to input identification information, the print data request unit 412 transmits the identification information to the information processing server 200 and requests print data.

[0072] The data receiving unit 413 receives the print data associated with the identification information from the information processing server 200 and temporarily stores it in the memory 402.

[0073] The image forming unit 414 controls the image forming unit 406 and prints the print data acquired from the information processing server 200 on a recording medium such as paper.

[0074] Next, with reference to FIG. 6, the processing flow of the entire document printing and delivery system 10 will be described. Note that FIG. 6 is a sequence diagram showing the processing between the devices constituting the document printing and delivery system 10 in chronological order.

[0075] First, the sender operates the sender terminal device 100 to create or acquire print data.

[0076] In step S601 of FIG. 6, the sender terminal device 100 transmits print data and recipient information to the information processing server 200.

[0077] In step S602, the data reception unit 211 of the information processing server 200 associates the print and recipient information received from the sender terminal device 100 and stores it in the data storage unit 212.

[0078] In step S603, the print request unit 213 issues identification information associated with the print data, selects a delivery person to whom the print is requested, and transmits a print request including the identification information to the delivery person terminal device 300 held by this delivery person.

[0079] In step S604, the delivery person moves to the location where the image forming apparatus 400 is installed, operates the input device 404 of the image forming apparatus 400, and inputs the identification information included in the print request.

[0080] In step S605, the print data request unit 412 of the image forming apparatus 400 transmits the input identification information to the information processing server 200 and requests the print data.

[0081] When receiving the identification information from the image forming apparatus 400, in step S606, the print request unit 213 of the information processing server 200 specifies the print data corresponding to the identification information from the data storage unit 212. Then, in step S607, the print request unit 213 of the information processing server 200 transmits the specified print data to the image forming apparatus 400 that has transmitted the identification information and requests the print.

[0082] When transmitting the print request to the image forming apparatus 400 in step S607, the work monitoring approval unit 214 requests the delivery person terminal device 300 to take a monitoring image for monitoring the print work and the enclosing work by the delivery person in step S608.

[0083] When the delivery person's terminal device 300 receives a monitoring image shooting request, in step S609, it starts shooting with the built-in camera of the device itself, and shoots monitoring images of the printing operation using the image forming device 400 by the delivery person and the encapsulation operation of encapsulating the printed matter printed with the print data. That is, when the delivery person inputs identification information into the image forming device 400, a monitoring image shooting request is transmitted from the information processing server 200 to the delivery person's terminal device 300, and the delivery person's terminal device 300 starts shooting the monitoring image. In this first embodiment, the monitoring image is a moving image. The start of shooting may be forcibly started by receiving the monitoring image shooting request, or may be started after the delivery person operates the delivery person's terminal device 300 and gives consent.

[0084] The delivery person places the delivery person's terminal device 300 at a pre-specified position, for example, on a table near the image forming device 400 or other specified locations, and shoots the printing operation using the image forming device 400 and the delivery person's own encapsulation operation.

[0085] In step S610, when the data receiving unit 413 of the image forming device 400 receives the print data, it prints the print data on the paper surface by the image forming unit 414. Then the delivery person encapsulates the printed matter in an envelope or the like. At this time, the printing operation and the encapsulation operation by this delivery person are being shot by the delivery person's terminal device 300.

[0086] When the encapsulation operation is completed, in step S611, the delivery person operates the delivery person's terminal device 300 to end the shooting of the monitoring image and transmits the monitoring image to the information processing server 200. Note that the acquisition of the monitoring image by the information processing server 200 is performed after the shooting is completed. Specifically, after the delivery person ends the shooting of the monitoring image by the delivery person's terminal device 300, the delivery person uploads the monitoring images to the information processing server 200 collectively. Of course, as will be described later, shooting and acquisition may be performed simultaneously. That is, the monitoring image being shot by the delivery person's terminal device 300 may be streamed and transmitted to the information processing server 200.

[0087] When the information processing server 200 receives a surveillance image, in step S612, it stores the surveillance image in the data storage unit 212, issues connection information for reproducing and checking this surveillance image, and transmits it to the sender terminal device 100.

[0088] In the sender terminal device 100, when receiving the connection information to the surveillance image, in step S613, the sender connects to the storage location of the surveillance image using the connection information and reproduces and checks the surveillance image. The transmission of the surveillance image from the information processing server 200 to the sender terminal device 100 and the reproduction of the surveillance image by the sender terminal device 100 may be performed simultaneously, or reproduction may be performed after all transmissions are completed. Specifically, the reproduction of the surveillance image is performed by transmitting the moving image as a streaming video to the sender terminal device 100 and reproducing it. Here, reproducing as a streaming video means reproducing while downloading the moving image from the information processing server 200 at the same time. Alternatively, the surveillance image may be reproduced after being once downloaded to the sender terminal device 100. When the reproduction of the surveillance image is completed, in step S614, the work monitoring approval unit 214 of the information processing server 200 requests approval of the surveillance image from the sender.

[0089] When the sender approves the surveillance image in step S615, in step S616, the delivery instruction unit 215 of the information processing server 200 transmits the recipient information to the delivery person terminal device 300. In other words, if the surveillance image is not approved, the recipient information is not transmitted to the delivery person terminal device 300.

[0090] That is, unless the sender plays back the surveillance image and confirms and approves that no inappropriate actions that the sender does not intend or that the delivery person does not face, such as removal, peeking, photographing, soiling, or leakage of the printed matter by the delivery person, the recipient information will not be transmitted to the delivery person terminal device 300. If the delivery person cannot obtain the recipient information, the delivery cannot be completed and the delivery person cannot receive the remuneration. Therefore, inappropriate actions by the delivery person will be deterred. Also, since the delivery person must photograph their own printing work, they will become aware that they are being monitored for inappropriate actions, and as a result, they will be unable to perform inappropriate actions. For example, when the sender confirms the actions of the delivery person and discovers that there is soiling or leakage of the printed matter, the sender can instruct the reprinting or the like by a separate method without passing the recipient information to the delivery person. Also, when there are inappropriate actions by the delivery person such as removal, peeking, or photographing of the printed matter, the delivery person will not be paid by not completing the delivery without passing the recipient information to the delivery person. In this way, inappropriate actions by the delivery person are deterred.

[0091] In step S617, when the delivery person terminal device 300 receives the recipient information, the delivery person delivers the printed matter already enclosed to the recipient's delivery destination based on this recipient information.

[0092] In step S618, the charge billing unit 216 of the information processing server 200 calculates the charge corresponding to the print data transmitted to the image forming device 400, charges the sender terminal device 100, and ends the process.

[0093] [Second Embodiment] Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is an overall conceptual diagram showing an example of a document printing and delivery system 10A according to the second embodiment. The document printing and delivery system 10A of the second embodiment is different from the document printing and delivery system 10 of the first embodiment in the following points. That is, in the first embodiment, the monitoring image was taken by the delivery person's terminal device 300, whereas in the following second embodiment, the monitoring image is taken by a camera 600 installed in the store where the image forming device 400 is installed.

[0094] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the monitoring image was acquired from the delivery person's terminal device 300 possessed by the delivery person, that is, after the delivery person's terminal device 300 took the monitoring image, the monitoring image was transmitted to the information processing server 200 by the delivery person's active operation. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, the information processing server 200 acquires the moving image of the monitoring image as a streaming video from the camera 600, which is an imaging device arranged near the image forming device 400 to which the identification information corresponding to the image data is input. That is, the monitoring image taken by this camera 600 is stream-transmitted to the sender terminal device 100 via the information processing server 200 and is stream-played on the sender terminal device 100. Since the configurations of the first embodiment and the second embodiment are the same except for these differences, the following description will be made using the same reference numerals for the components of the second embodiment that are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0095] As shown in FIG. 7, in the store where the image forming device 400 is installed, a camera 600 is arranged near the image forming device 400, for example, at a position where at least a part of the image forming device 400 is within the field of view, and is connected to the information processing server 200 via a network such as the Internet 500. This camera 600 is assumed to be installed so that the image forming device 400 and its surroundings are within the shooting target range. The shooting target range shall include the work space where the delivery person encloses the printed matter.

[0096] When the delivery person inputs the identification information into the image forming apparatus 400, in the same manner as in the first embodiment, the print data request unit 412 of the image forming apparatus 400 transmits the input identification information to the information processing server 200 and requests print data.

[0097] Next, when the print request unit 213 of the information processing server 200 receives the identification information from the image forming apparatus 400, it specifies the print data corresponding to the identification information from the data storage unit 212. Then, the print request unit 213 of the information processing server 200 transmits the specified print data to the image forming apparatus 400 that has transmitted the identification information and requests printing.

[0098] When transmitting the print request to the image forming apparatus 400, the work monitoring approval unit 214 requests the camera 600 arranged in the store where the image forming apparatus 400 is installed to capture a monitoring image for monitoring the printing work and the enclosing work by the delivery person.

[0099] Upon receiving the request to capture a monitoring image, the camera 600 starts capturing, captures monitoring images of the printing work using the image forming apparatus 400 by the delivery person and the enclosing work of enclosing the printed matter printed with the print data, and transmits them to the information processing server 200 as streaming video. That is, when the delivery person inputs the identification information into the image forming apparatus 400, a request to capture a monitoring image is transmitted from the information processing server 200 to the camera 600, and the capture of the monitoring image is started by the delivery person terminal device 300. That is, the acquisition of the monitoring image as streaming video starts at least from the time when printing of the print data associated with the identification information starts using the image forming apparatus 400. Note that the camera 600 may be constantly capturing images like a surveillance camera, transmitting the video to another server (not shown), and streaming the captured video to the information processing server 200 at the timing of receiving the request to capture a monitoring image. Note that streaming transmission means continuously transmitting the video to the information processing server 200 from the camera 600 simultaneously with or substantially simultaneously with the capture allowing a slight delay.

[0100] When the data receiving unit 413 of the image forming apparatus 400 receives print data, the image forming unit 414 prints the print data on the paper surface. Then, the delivery person encloses the printed material in an envelope or the like. Note that the printing operation and the enclosing operation by this delivery person are continuously photographed by the camera 600 and transmitted to the information processing server 200 as streaming video.

[0101] When the information processing server 200 starts receiving the streaming video from the camera 600, the information processing server 200 starts storing the streaming video in the data storage unit 212. In addition, connection information for streaming and reproducing and confirming this surveillance image is issued and transmitted to the sender terminal device 100. Further, the work monitoring approval unit 214 of the information processing server 200 requests the sender terminal device 100 to approve the surveillance image, and notifies that the streaming reproduction of the surveillance image is continued until the sender approves the surveillance image.

[0102] When the sender terminal device 100 receives the connection information to the surveillance image, the sender connects to the surveillance image stored in the data storage unit 212 of the information processing server 200 using the connection information, and reproduces and confirms the surveillance image. The surveillance image is streamed and transmitted from the information processing server 200 and is streamed and reproduced at the sender terminal device 100. While visually recognizing the streaming reproduced surveillance image, the sender confirms the printing operation and the enclosing operation by the delivery person, and when confirming that the operation has been correctly completed, the sender approves the surveillance image. The sender terminal device 100 notifies the information processing server 200 of the approval of the surveillance image.

[0103] Upon receiving the notification of the approval of the surveillance image by the sender, the work surveillance approval unit 214 of the information processing server 200 instructs the camera 600 to finish taking the surveillance image, and the camera 600 ends the taking of the surveillance image. Alternatively, although the shooting itself by the camera 600 continues, only the streaming transmission of the moving image to the information processing server 200 may be stopped. That is, the acquisition of the surveillance image ends when the sender recognizes that the enclosure work of the printed matter has been completed. Also, the delivery instruction unit 215 of the information processing server 200 transmits the recipient information stored in association with the print data to the delivery person terminal device 300 in the data storage unit 212. Note that when the surveillance image is not approved, the recipient information is not transmitted to the delivery person terminal device 300. Note that the information processing server 200 may mechanically recognize the end of the enclosure work of the printed matter and end the acquisition of the surveillance image.

[0104] In the second embodiment described above, the case where the camera 600 is arranged in the store where the image forming apparatus 400 is installed has been described. And this camera 600 may be a dedicated imaging device installed in the vicinity of the image forming apparatus 400 for the purpose of taking a surveillance image, or may be a surveillance camera arranged in the store and including the image forming apparatus 400 and its surroundings in the shooting range. Also, a camera may be built in the image forming apparatus 400, and a surveillance image obtained by monitoring the printing work and the enclosure work by the delivery person with the camera built in the image forming apparatus 400 may be taken as a streaming video.

[0105] In the first embodiment, a moving image is captured as a monitoring image by the delivery person terminal device 300, and after the delivery person finishes the printing operation and the encapsulation operation, the delivery person actively operates the delivery person terminal device 300 to end the capture of the monitoring image and transmit the monitoring image to the information processing server 200. However, the monitoring image captured by the delivery person terminal device 300 may be captured as a streaming video as in the second embodiment and continuously transmitted to the information processing server 200. In that case, the start and end of the capture of the streaming video of the printing operation and the encapsulation operation by the delivery person may be performed by the delivery person operating the delivery person terminal device 300, or may be forcibly performed according to an instruction from the work monitoring approval unit 214 of the information processing server 200.

[0106] In the first embodiment, the monitoring image captured by the delivery person terminal device 300 was a moving image captured over the entire period from the start of printing by the image forming apparatus 400 to the end of the encapsulation operation by the delivery person. In the second embodiment, the monitoring image was a streaming video captured by the camera 600 over the entire period from the start of printing by the image forming apparatus 400 to the end of the encapsulation operation by the delivery person. And all of the captured monitoring images were to be confirmed by the sender. However, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and the work monitoring approval unit 214 may select only a preset part or a plurality of parts from the captured moving images and streaming videos so that they can be reproduced by the sender terminal device 100.

[0107] Also, in the above-described first and second embodiments, the monitoring image was a moving image or a streaming video, but the monitoring image may be a still image that captures the progress of work at a preset time point. For example, the work monitoring approval unit 214 of the information processing server 200 may generate one or more still images that capture the progress of work at a preset time point from the moving image or the streaming video, and make them visible to the sender terminal device 100. Examples of the preset timing include the timing at which image data is printed by the image forming apparatus 400, the work timing at which an operator encloses printed materials, and the situations before and after that. The work monitoring approval unit 214 may mechanically determine these parts from the moving image and the streaming video, extract the still images of those parts, and enable the sender to play them back. Note that a still image is an image at a specific moment.

[0108] Also, although the delivery person terminal device 300 of the first embodiment and the camera 600 of the second embodiment have been described for the case of capturing a moving image, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the delivery person terminal device 300 or the camera 600 may capture still images at preset time intervals. In that case, the captured still images are transmitted to the information processing server 200.

[0109] [Third Embodiment] Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is an overall conceptual diagram showing an example of a document printing and delivery system 10B according to the third embodiment. The configuration of the document printing and delivery system 10B according to the third embodiment is the same as that of the document printing and delivery system 10 according to the first embodiment, except that the sender terminal device 100 and the delivery person terminal device 300 are connected by a video call during the period of printing work and encapsulation work by the delivery person. Therefore, the following description will be made using the same reference numerals for the same components as in the first embodiment. Note that the video call in the following description refers to a form in which the sender terminal device 100 and the delivery person terminal device 300 are directly connected or connected via the information processing server 200 or another server, and a dialogue is conducted while visually recognizing video in both directions. However, the present invention is not limited to this method, and it is sufficient that at least the video of the work performed by the delivery person is captured using the camera of the delivery person terminal device 300 and can be visually recognized on the delivery person terminal device 300. The video captured by the camera of the sender terminal device 100 may or may not be transmitted to the delivery person terminal device 300. Further, this video call may or may not include a voice call.

[0110] The delivery person operates the input device 404 of the image forming apparatus 400 to input the identification information included in the printing request. Then, the print data request unit 412 of the image forming apparatus 400 transmits the input identification information to the information processing server 200 and requests print data.

[0111] When the print request unit 213 of the information processing server 200 receives the identification information from the image forming apparatus 400, it specifies the print data corresponding to the identification information from the data storage unit 212. Then, the print request unit 213 of the information processing server 200 transmits the specified print data to the image forming apparatus 400 that has transmitted the identification information and requests printing.

[0112] When the information processing server 200 transmits a print request to the image forming apparatus 400, at the same time, the work monitoring approval unit 214 transmits an invitation to a video call to the sender terminal device 100 and the delivery person terminal device 300. When the sender who operates the sender terminal device 100 and the delivery person who operates the delivery person terminal device 300 respond to the invitation to the video call respectively, the video call is started. Then, the video captured by the video call in the delivery person terminal device 300 is transmitted to the sender terminal device 100 as a monitoring image, and the sender can confirm the printing work and the enclosing work by the delivery person while viewing the monitoring image.

[0113] The video call may be started when the sender and the delivery person respond to the invitation to the call respectively, or may be forced to be in a call state when receiving an invitation to a video call from the information processing server 200.

[0114] The delivery person places the delivery person terminal device 300 at a pre-specified position, for example, on a table near the image forming apparatus 400 or other specified places, and captures the printing work using the image forming apparatus 400 and the enclosing work by the delivery person himself / herself as the call video of the video call. That is, the information processing server 200 acquires and transmits the monitoring image by connecting the sender terminal device 100 and the delivery person terminal device 300 through a video call.

[0115] When the data receiving unit 413 of the image forming apparatus 400 receives the print data, the print data is printed on the paper surface by the image forming unit 414. Then the delivery person encloses the printed material in an envelope or the like. The printing work and the enclosing work by this delivery person are captured as the call video by the delivery person terminal device 300, and the captured call video can be visually recognized by the sender in the sender terminal device 100.

[0116] During a video call, the work monitoring approval unit 214 of the information processing server 200 makes an inquiry to the sender terminal device 100 regarding whether to approve the monitoring image. When the sender approves the monitoring image, the work monitoring approval unit 214 disconnects the video call, and the delivery instruction unit 215 transmits the recipient information to the delivery person terminal device 300. Note that when the sender decides not to approve the monitoring image, the recipient information may not be transmitted to the delivery person terminal device 300.

[0117] When the delivery person terminal device 300 receives the recipient information, based on this recipient information, the delivery person delivers the printed matter that has been enclosed to the recipient's delivery destination.

[0118] As described above, in the above Embodiments 1-3, the case where the sender approves the monitoring image has been explained. However, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. For example, the information processing server 200 may mechanically approve the monitoring image. That is, the content of the monitoring image may be mechanically analyzed, and when it is determined that there is no problem with the delivery person's work, the monitoring image may be approved and the recipient information may be transmitted.

[0119] Also, in the above embodiment, if the sender plays back the monitoring image but no approval is given even after the preset time has elapsed, the information processing server 200 may mechanically perform the approval so that the delivery by the delivery person can be carried out.

[0120] Furthermore, when the delivery person does not transmit the monitoring image, it may be determined whether the sender approves, and based on this, the recipient information may be transmitted.

[0121] In the above embodiment, the case where the delivery instruction unit 215 of the information processing server 200 transmits the recipient information to the delivery person terminal device 300 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment. When the sender approves the surveillance image, the delivery instruction unit 215 may convert the recipient information into printable data for the image forming apparatus 400 by the print request unit 213 and transmit it. The transmitted recipient information data is printed by the image forming apparatus 400, and the delivery person attaches the printed recipient information to an envelope and delivers the enclosed printed matter.

[0122] In addition, in each of the above embodiments, the processor refers to a processor in a broad sense and includes a general-purpose processor (for example, CPU: Central Processing Unit, etc.) and a dedicated processor (for example, GPU: Graphics Processing Unit, ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit, FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array, programmable logic device, etc.).

[0123] Also, the operation of the processor in each of the above embodiments may be achieved not only by one processor but also by a plurality of physically separated processors cooperating. Also, the order of each operation of the processor is not limited to the order described in each of the above embodiments and may be changed as necessary.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0124] 10, 10A, 10B Document Printing and Delivery System 100 Sender Terminal Device 200 Information Processing Server 201 CPU 202 Memory 203 Storage Device 204 Communication Interface 205 Control Bus 211 Data Receiving Unit 212 Data Storage Unit 213 Print Request Unit 214 Operation Monitoring and Approval Department 215 Delivery Instruction Department 216 Charge Billing Department 300 Delivery Personnel Terminal Device 400 Image Forming Device 401 CPU 402 Memory 403 Storage Device 404 Input Device 405 Display Device 406 Image Forming Unit 407 Communication Interface 408 Control Bus 411 Printing Waiting Section 412 Printing Data Request Section 413 Data Receiving Section 414 Image Forming Section 500 Internet 600 Camera

Claims

1. comprising a processor, wherein the processor, receives print data and recipient information of a printed matter printed with the print data from a terminal device of a sender, issues identification information associated with the received print data, and transmits a print request including the identification information to a terminal device of a delivery person who delivers the printed matter, when receiving the identification information input by the delivery person from an image forming apparatus, transmits the print data associated with the identification information to the image forming apparatus, acquires a monitoring image for monitoring a printing operation of the print data performed by the delivery person using the image forming apparatus, and notifies the terminal device of the sender to confirm and approve the monitoring image, and when receiving approval of the monitoring image from the terminal device of the sender, transmits the recipient information to at least one of the terminal device of the delivery person and the image forming apparatus. An information processing apparatus.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the monitoring image monitors a status of a printing operation of the print data performed by the delivery person using the image forming apparatus and a status of an encapsulation operation of the printed matter printed with the print data.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the processor acquires the monitoring image from a terminal device possessed by the delivery person.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the processor acquires the monitoring image from an imaging device that includes at least a part of the image forming apparatus in which the identification information is input in its field of view.

5. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the monitoring image is a moving image.

6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the processor acquires the moving image as a streaming video.

7. The processor according to claim 5, wherein the acquisition of the monitoring image starts from the time when printing of print data associated with the identification information is started using the image forming apparatus, and ends at the time when the encapsulation work of the printed matter is completed.

8. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the processor transmits the moving image as a streaming video to the terminal device of the sender.

9. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the monitoring image is a still image that captures the progress of work at a preset time.

10. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the processor transmits connection information for confirming the acquired monitoring image to the terminal device of the sender.

11. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the processor acquires and transmits the monitoring image by connecting the terminal device of the sender and the terminal device of the delivery person via a video call.

12. Receiving print data and recipient information for receiving the printed matter printed with the print data from the terminal device of the sender; Issuing identification information associated with the received print data, and transmitting a delivery request including the identification information to the terminal device of a delivery person who delivers the printed matter; When receiving the identification information input by the delivery person from the image forming apparatus, transmitting the print data associated with the identification information to the image forming apparatus; Acquiring a monitoring image for monitoring the printing operation of the print data performed by the delivery person using the image forming apparatus, and notifying the terminal device of the sender to confirm and approve the monitoring image; When receiving approval of the monitoring image from the terminal device of the sender, transmitting the recipient information to at least one of the terminal device of the delivery person and the image forming apparatus; A program for causing a computer to execute.

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