Information Processing Apparatus and Information Processing Method

Abstract

To improve work efficiency compared with a conventional one.SOLUTION: An information processing device includes: an authentication processing unit that performs a login authentication based on an operation performed for operation means; an exclusive control unit that gives, after the login authentication, a use authority for using a function to the operation means and cancels, when no response is obtained from the operation means for a predetermined time after the use authority is given, the use authority given to the operation means; a function execution unit that executes, when the use authority for the function is given to the operation means, the function based on the operation performed for the operation means; and a state detection unit that detects the state of its own device. The exclusive control unit determines, based on a detection result of the state detection unit, whether to cancel the use authority given to the operation means after the predetermined time has passed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in an information processing apparatus such as a multifunction device, a plurality of operation means such as a PC (personal computer) are provided so that a plurality of operators (that is, users) can operate from a plurality of locations separated from each other. In this type of information processing apparatus, when a certain user is given the right to operate, exclusive control is performed to restrict the operation by other users.

[0003] Further, in an information processing apparatus that performs such exclusive control, as a countermeasure against the situation where another user is unnecessarily kept waiting when a certain user forgets to release the right to operate (specifically, the right to use a function that is the target of exclusive control), when there is no response from a certain user for a predetermined time, the right to use given to the certain user is released and delegated to another user (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in a conventional information processing apparatus, for example, when a certain user is performing work such as replenishing or replacing consumables, a situation occurs where a response cannot be made within a predetermined time, and the right to use given to the certain user is released and delegated to another user. In this case, after a certain user finishes work such as replenishing or replacing consumables, the user cannot continue to use the function that was being used, and there is a problem that work efficiency decreases.

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above points, and intends to propose an information processing apparatus and an information processing method that can improve work efficiency as compared with the prior art.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The information processing apparatus of the present invention includes an authentication processing unit that performs login authentication based on an operation performed on an operation means, and after the login authentication, gives the operation means the right to use a function. After giving the right to use, if there is no response from the operation means for a predetermined time, an exclusive control unit that releases the right to use given to the operation means, and when the operation means is given the right to use the function, a function execution unit that executes the function based on an operation performed on the operation means, and a state detection unit that detects the state of the own device. The exclusive control unit is When the self-device is in a predetermined state and a predetermined operation for the predetermined state is being performed, even if the predetermined time elapses without a response from the operation means, the usage right given to the operation means is not released. When the self-device is in the predetermined state and the operation time set to be longer than the predetermined time elapses without the state detection unit detecting that the operation has been completed, the usage right given to the operation means is released. configured as described above. The information processing apparatus of the present invention further includes an authentication processing unit that performs login authentication based on an operation performed on the operation means, and after the login authentication, gives a usage right to use the function to the operation means. After giving the usage right, when there is no response from the operation means for a predetermined time, an exclusive control unit that releases the usage right given to the operation means, and when the usage right of the function is given to the operation means, a function execution unit that executes the function based on the operation performed on the operation means, and a state detection unit that detects the state of the self-device. The exclusive control unit does not release the usage right given to the operation means even if the predetermined time elapses without a response from the operation means when a predetermined operation for the predetermined state is being performed while the self-device is in the predetermined state. When an operation for selecting not to perform the predetermined operation for the predetermined state is performed on the operation means while the self-device is in the predetermined state, the exclusive control unit releases the usage right given to the operation means.

[0008] Also, the information processing method of the present invention is an information processing method by an information processing apparatus, in which an authentication processing unit performs login authentication based on an operation performed on an operation means, and after the login authentication, gives the operation means the right to use a function. After giving the right to use, if there is no response from the operation means for a predetermined time, an exclusive control unit that releases the right to use given to the operation means When the state of the information processing apparatus detected by the state detection unit is in a predetermined state and a predetermined operation for the predetermined state is being performed, even if the predetermined time elapses without a response from the operation means, the usage right given to the operation means is not released. When the information processing apparatus is in the predetermined state and the operation time set to be longer than the predetermined time elapses without the state detection unit detecting that the operation has been completed, the usage right given to the operation means is released. is configured as described above. Furthermore, the information processing method of the present invention is an information processing method by an information processing apparatus, wherein an authentication processing unit performs login authentication based on an operation performed on an operation means, and after the login authentication, gives a usage right to use the function to the operation means. After giving the usage right, when there is no response from the operation means for a predetermined time, an exclusive control unit that releases the usage right given to the operation means, when the state of the information processing apparatus detected by a state detection unit is a predetermined state, and a predetermined operation for the predetermined state is being performed, even if the predetermined time elapses without a response from the operation means, does not release the usage right given to the operation means. When an operation is performed to select not to perform the predetermined operation for the predetermined state on the operation means when the information processing apparatus is in the predetermined state, the usage right given to the operation means is released.

[0009] According to the present invention, for example, when the state of the information processing apparatus is during a consumable replacement operation, it is possible not to release the right to use given to the operation means even if a predetermined time elapses without a response from the operation means. By doing so, it is possible to avoid a situation where the right to use the function being used is released while the user is in the middle of the consumable replacement operation, and the user can continue to use the function being used after the consumable replacement operation is completed.

Effects of the Invention

[0010] The present invention can realize an information processing apparatus and an information processing method capable of improving work efficiency as compared with the prior art.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the invention (hereinafter referred to as embodiments) will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0013] [1. First Embodiment] [1-1. Configuration of Information Processing System] FIG. 1 shows the configuration of an information processing system 1 according to the first embodiment. This information processing system 1 is composed of an information processing apparatus 100, a terminal apparatus 200, a user information database 300, and an authentication information database 400, and these can communicate with each other via a network Nt.

[0014] The information processing apparatus 100 is, for example, a multifunction device. The terminal apparatus 200 is a smartphone, a PC, or the like, and is used as a remote operation means for the information processing apparatus 100. That is, the information processing apparatus 100 can be directly operated using an operation display panel as a direct operation means provided in the apparatus itself, and can also be remotely operated using the terminal apparatus 200.

[0015] Note that in the information processing system 1 shown in FIG. 1, only one terminal apparatus 200 is provided, but a plurality of terminal apparatuses 200 may be provided. When a plurality of terminal apparatuses 200 are provided, a plurality of users will remotely operate the information processing apparatus 100 using their respective terminal apparatuses 200.

[0016] The user information database 300 is, for example, a database constructed on a server. Information of users (referred to as user information) who use the information processing apparatus 100 is stored in this user information database 300. The user information includes, for example, the user name of the user.

[0017] The authentication information database 400 is also a database constructed, for example, on a server. The authentication information database 400 stores authentication information for each user registered in the user information database 300. The authentication information is information for logging in to the information processing apparatus 100 and includes, for example, a user name, a user ID, and a password. The user information registered in the user information database 300 and the authentication information registered in the authentication information database 400 are associated with each other by the user name.

[0018] The network Nt is, for example, the Internet or a LAN, and any network capable of information communication between devices may be used. It may be a single network, or may be constructed by a plurality of networks or communication lines. The network Nt may be a wired network, a wireless network, or a hybrid wired / wireless network.

[0019] [1-2. Main Configuration of Information Processing Apparatus] Next, the main configuration of the information processing apparatus 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 2. Since the information processing apparatus 100 is, for example, a multifunction device as described above, FIG. 2 shows the main configuration as a multifunction device. That is, the information processing apparatus 100 includes an image forming unit 110, an image reading unit 120, and a paper conveyance unit 130. The image forming unit 110 is provided above the paper conveyance unit 130, and the image reading unit 120 is provided above the image forming unit 110.

[0020] The image forming unit 110 has an image forming mechanism 12 for forming a color image. The image forming mechanism 12 has a configuration as a color electrophotographic printer capable of printing in four colors, for example, black (K), yellow (Y), magenta (M), and cyan (C). The image forming mechanism 12 will be described in detail later. The image reading unit 120 is configured by a scanner device capable of reading a document as image data.

[0021] The paper conveyance unit 130 has a paper tray 11 and a fixing unit 13, and further includes a paper feed roller 20, a registration roller pair 21, conveyance roller pairs 22, 23, and a discharge roller pair 24 for conveying the recording paper 14 as a recording medium (i.e., a printing medium).

[0022] The paper tray 11 stores the recording paper 14 in a stacked state inside and is detachably mounted at the lower part within the paper conveyance unit 130. The paper feed roller 20 takes out the recording paper 14 stored in the paper tray 11 one by one from the top and feeds it out onto the paper conveyance path R. The registration roller pair 21 and the conveyance roller pair 22 provided on the paper conveyance path R correct the skew of the recording paper 14 and convey it to the image forming mechanism 12 of the image forming unit 110.

[0023] The image forming mechanism 12 is composed of four image forming units 25 (specifically, image forming units 25K, 25Y, 25M, 25C) detachably arranged along the paper conveyance path R, four exposure heads 26, 27, 28, 29 provided for each of the four image forming units 25, and a transfer processing unit 40.

[0024] The four image forming units 25 have the same configuration except for the different colors of the toner used. The four image forming units 25 and the four exposure heads 26, 27, 28, 29 form an image (toner image) developed by toner based on image data on the photosensitive drums 30 provided for each of the four image forming units 25 by an electrophotographic process.

[0025] The transfer processing unit 40 includes a transfer belt 41 that electrostatically adsorbs and conveys the recording paper 14, a drive roller 42 that is rotationally driven by a drive unit (not shown) to drive the transfer belt 41, tension rollers 43a, 43b, 43c that stretch the transfer belt 41 together with the drive roller 42, and transfer rollers 44, 45, 46, 47 that are arranged to be pressed against the photosensitive drums 30 of the respective image forming units 25 via the transfer belt 41 at positions facing the photosensitive drums 30. When a transfer voltage is applied to the transfer rollers 44, 45, 46, 47, the toner images formed on the photosensitive drums 30 of the respective image forming units 25 are transferred to the recording paper 14.

[0026] The fixing unit 13 fixes the toner image on the recording paper 14 by heating and pressing the recording paper 14 onto which the toner image has been transferred by the transfer processing unit 40. The recording paper 14 on which the toner image has been fixed is conveyed by a pair of conveyance rollers 23 provided on the paper conveyance path R, and is discharged onto a stacker 51 provided on a cover 50 that forms the upper surface portion of the image forming unit 110 by a pair of discharge rollers 24. The main component configuration of the information processing apparatus 100 is as described above.

[0027] The information processing apparatus 100 realizes a copying function (copy), an image reading function (scan), and a printing function (print) by the above-described image forming unit 110, image reading unit 120, and paper conveyance unit 130.

[0028] [1-3. System Configuration of Information Processing Apparatus] Next, the system configuration of the information processing apparatus 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 3. The information processing apparatus 100 includes an image forming unit 110, an image reading unit 120, a paper conveyance unit 130, a facsimile transmission / reception control unit 140, a transmission / reception unit 150, a data processing unit 160, a user interface unit (hereinafter referred to as the UI unit) 170, a control unit 180, and a storage unit 190.

[0029] As described above, the image forming unit 110 forms an image (toner image) based on image data on the recording paper 14. As described above, the image reading unit 120 is configured by a scanner device and optically reads a set original document to generate image data. As described above, the paper conveyance unit 130 conveys the recording paper 14 taken out from the paper tray 11 along the paper conveyance path R, and discharges the recording paper 14 on which an image is formed by the image forming unit 110 to the stacker 51.

[0030] The facsimile transmission / reception control unit 140 is a part that realizes the facsimile function of the information processing apparatus 100 and controls the transmission and reception of image data by facsimile. The transmission / reception unit 150 performs data transmission and reception with external devices (such as the terminal device 200, the user information database 300, and the authentication information database 400) on the network Nt.

[0031] The data processing unit 160 is a software functional unit realized, for example, when a CPU (not shown) of the information processing apparatus 100 executes a program, and performs data processing on image data for the image forming unit 110 to form an image on the recording paper 14, image data read by the image reading unit 120, and the like.

[0032] The UI unit 170 is a part that functions as a display unit for displaying an operation screen and an operation input unit for the user to perform operation inputs, and is configured by, for example, an operation display panel. That is, in the information processing apparatus 100, this UI unit 170 serves as a direct operation means, and can be directly operated using this UI unit 170. Note that the information processing apparatus 100 can be directly operated by this UI unit 170 and can also be remotely operated by the terminal device 200. Here, the UI unit 170 is called a direct operation means, and the terminal device 200 is called a remote operation means. Also, in the following description, these direct operation means and remote operation means may be collectively referred to as operation means.

[0033] The control unit 180 is also a software functional unit like the data processing unit 160, and controls the image forming unit 110, the image reading unit 120, the paper conveyance unit 130, the facsimile transmission / reception control unit 140, the transmission / reception unit 150, and the UI unit 170. Although details will be described later, the control unit 180 manages usage right information indicating which operation means (UI unit 170, terminal device 200) holds the usage right of the functions of the information processing apparatus 100, and performs exclusive control of the functions of the information processing apparatus 100. Note that exclusive control means controlling so that a function being used by one operation means (for example, the UI unit 170) cannot be used by other operation means (for example, the terminal device 200). Also, in the information processing apparatus 100, exclusive control is performed only for specific functions that cannot be used simultaneously by a plurality of users.

[0034] The storage unit 190 includes, for example, a ROM and a RAM. The ROM of the storage unit 190 is, for example, a non-volatile memory, and stores programs for the CPU to function as the data processing unit 160 and the control unit 180 (that is, programs executed by the CPU). The RAM is used as a work area in data processing by the data processing unit 160 and control by the control unit 180. The system configuration of the information processing apparatus 100 is as described above.

[0035] [1-4. System Configuration of Terminal Device] Next, the system configuration of the terminal device 200 will be described with reference to FIG. 4. As described above, the terminal device 200 is a smartphone, a PC, or the like, and includes a CPU 210, a storage unit 220, a transmission / reception unit 230, a display unit 240, and an operation input unit 250.

[0036] The CPU 210 functions as an arithmetic unit that performs various arithmetic operations by executing programs, and a control unit that controls the transmission / reception unit 230, the display unit 240, and the operation input unit 250. The storage unit 220 includes, for example, a ROM and a RAM. The ROM of the storage unit 220 is, for example, a non-volatile memory, and stores programs executed by the CPU 210. The RAM is used as a work area by the CPU 210.

[0037] The transmission / reception unit 230 transmits and receives information to and from external devices (such as the information processing apparatus 100) on the network Nt. The display unit 240 displays a remote operation screen or the like for remotely operating the information processing apparatus 100. The operation input unit 250 is a part where the user performs operation inputs, and is configured by, for example, a touch panel, a mouse, a keyboard, or the like. The system configuration of the terminal device 200 is as described above.

[0038] [1-5. Functional Configuration of the Control Unit of the Information Processing Apparatus] Next, the functional configuration of the control unit 180 of the information processing apparatus 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 5. As a functional configuration, the control unit 180 includes a display control unit 181, an operation reception unit 182, an authentication processing unit 183, an exclusive control unit 184, a usage right information management unit 185, a function execution unit 186, a consumable management unit 187, and a device state management unit 188.

[0039] The display control unit 181 generates data of an operation screen (direct operation screen), and causes the UI unit 170 to display the operation screen based on this data. Specifically, as the operation screen, the display control unit 181 causes the UI unit 170 to display, for example, a login screen or a menu screen for the user to select and use various functions (copying, scanning, printing, faxing, etc.) that the information processing apparatus 100 has. Although it will be described in detail later, the display control unit 181 also performs screen displays for delegating or acquiring the usage rights of functions subject to exclusive control.

[0040] The operation reception unit 182 receives operation inputs made by the user using the UI unit 170 with respect to the operation screen. Specifically, for example, it receives operation inputs such as input of authentication information for logging in to the information processing apparatus 100, switching instructions for the operation screen, execution instructions for various functions, and input of setting information for various functions. Although it will be described in detail later, the operation reception unit 182 also receives operations for delegating or acquiring the usage rights of functions subject to exclusive control.

[0041] The authentication processing unit 183 performs user authentication processing based on the authentication information received by the operation reception unit 182 (i.e., the authentication information input using the UI unit 170), and determines whether to permit login to the information processing apparatus 100. Specifically, when the authentication processing unit 183 acquires authentication information via the operation reception unit 182, it accesses the authentication information database 400, collates the user ID and password included in the authentication information, and permits login if they are registered in the authentication information database 400, and does not permit login if they are not registered. Also, the authentication processing unit 183 is configured to perform user authentication processing based on the authentication information received from the terminal device 200 via the transmission / reception unit 150 (i.e., the authentication information input using the terminal device 200), and determine whether to permit login to the information processing apparatus 100.

[0042] The exclusive control unit 184 performs exclusive control on a specific function that is the target of exclusive control. That is, when the exclusive control unit 184 gives the use permission of a specific function to one operation means (the UI unit 170 or the terminal device 200), it controls so that the function cannot be used from other operation means (the terminal device 200 or the UI unit 170). Also, the exclusive control unit 184, for example, after giving the use permission of a specific function to the UI unit 170, if a request for the use permission of the function is received from the terminal device 200 via the transmission / reception unit 230 and further the delegation of the use permission of the function is permitted by the UI unit 170, causes the use permission of the function to be delegated to the terminal device 200. Also, the exclusive control unit 184, for example, after giving the use permission of a specific function to the UI unit 170, if the UI unit 170 is left without any response being obtained for a predetermined time, causes the use permission of the function to be automatically delegated to the terminal device 200 that requests the use permission of the function. The control by the exclusive control unit 184 will be described in detail later.

[0043] The operation means on the side that holds the usage right is referred to as the holding-side operation means, and the operation means on the side that requests the usage right is referred to as the requesting-side operation means. Also, the delegation of the usage right from the holding-side operation means to the requesting-side operation means is synonymous with the release of the usage right held by the holding-side operation means and the giving of the usage right to the requesting-side operation means.

[0044] Based on the instruction from the exclusive control unit 184, the usage right information management unit 185 manages the usage right information indicating which operation means has the usage right for each function subject to exclusive control. Specifically, for example, when the UI unit 170 is given the usage right for the copy function, the information associating the information indicating the UI unit 170, the user ID of the user logged in using the UI unit 170, and the information indicating the copy function is managed as the usage right information by the usage right information management unit 185. Note that giving the usage right to the operation means is synonymous with giving the usage right to the user logged in using the operation means.

[0045] Based on the instruction received by the operation reception unit 182 and the instruction received from the terminal device 200 via the transmission / reception unit 150, the function execution unit 186 executes various functions provided in the information processing apparatus 100.

[0046] The consumable management unit 187 manages the remaining amounts of consumables such as the recording paper 14 stored in the paper tray 11 and the toner stored in each image forming unit 25. When the consumable management unit 187 detects that a consumable such as the recording paper 14 or toner has run out (i.e., the state where the replacement of the consumable is necessary) by means of sensors provided in the paper tray 11 and each image forming unit 25, it notifies the exclusive control unit 184 that the replacement of the consumable is necessary and that the replacement work of the consumable will be performed. Also, when the consumable management unit 187 detects that the replacement work of the consumable has been completed and the consumable has been replenished (i.e., the state where the replacement of the consumable is not necessary), it notifies the exclusive control unit 184 that the replacement work of the consumable has been completed.

[0047] The device status management unit 188 manages whether the information processing device 100 is in the process of replacing consumables as the status of the device. For example, when the recording paper 14 runs out in the paper tray 11, the paper tray 11 needs to be opened to replenish the recording paper 14. Therefore, after the consumable management unit 187 detects that the consumable has run out, the device status management unit 188 determines that the device is in the process of replacing the consumable while the paper tray 11 is open. Then, when the paper tray 11 is closed, it determines that the replacement operation of the consumable is completed.

[0048] Also, for example, when the toner runs out in the image forming unit 25, the cover 50 needs to be opened to replenish the toner. Therefore, while the cover 50 is open, the device status management unit 188 determines that the device is in the process of replacing the consumable. Then, when the cover 50 is closed, it determines that the replacement operation of the consumable is completed. When the device status management unit 188 determines that the device is in the process of replacing the consumable in this way, it notifies the exclusive control unit 184 that the device is in the process of replacing the consumable. Also, when the device status management unit 188 determines that the replacement operation of the consumable is completed, it notifies the exclusive control unit 184 that the replacement operation of the consumable is completed.

[0049] When the exclusive control unit 184 receives a notification that the device is in the process of replacing the consumable from at least one of the consumable management unit 187 and the device status management unit 188, even if no response is obtained from the holding-side operation means having the usage right for a predetermined time, the usage right is not delegated to the requesting-side operation means. This is because if the usage right is delegated to the requesting-side operation means while the user of the holding-side operation means is performing the replacement operation of the consumable (that is, if the usage right held by the holding-side operation means is released), after the user of the holding-side operation means completes the replacement operation, the functions used before the replacement operation cannot be continuously used as they were before the replacement operation.

[0050] After that, when the exclusive control unit 184 receives a notification from both the consumable management unit 187 and the device state management unit 188 that the replacement operation of the consumable has been completed, it releases the state where it does not delegate the usage right to the requesting-side operation means. The functional configuration of the control unit 180 of the information processing apparatus 100 is as described above.

[0051] [1-6. Functional Configuration of Terminal Device] Subsequently, the functional configuration of the terminal device 200 will be described with reference to FIG. 6. The terminal device 200 includes, as functional components, a display control unit 201, an operation reception unit 202, and a transmission / reception control unit 203. Note that this functional configuration is the functional configuration of the CPU 210.

[0052] The display control unit 201 generates a remote operation screen based on the operation received by the operation reception unit 202 and the information received by the transmission / reception unit 230 from the information processing apparatus 100, and causes the display unit 240 to display it. At this time, the display control unit 201 causes the display unit 240 to display a login screen or a menu screen as the remote operation screen so that the terminal device 200 can perform the same operations as the UI unit 170 of the information processing apparatus 100. Although it will be described in detail later, the display control unit 201 also performs screen display for delegating or acquiring the usage right of the function subject to exclusive control based on the information received by the transmission / reception unit 230 from the information processing apparatus 100.

[0053] The operation reception unit 202 receives the operation input made by the user using the operation input unit 250 on the remote operation screen. Specifically, for example, it receives operation inputs such as input of authentication information for logging in to the information processing apparatus 100, switching instructions for the remote operation screen, execution instructions for various functions, and input of setting information for various functions. Although it will be described in detail later, the operation reception unit 202 also receives operations for delegating or acquiring the usage right of the function subject to exclusive control.

[0054] The transmission / reception control unit 203 controls the transmission / reception unit 230 to transmit information (such as authentication information, execution instructions for various functions, and setting information for various functions) based on the operations received by the operation reception unit 202 to the information processing apparatus 100. Specifically, for example, the transmission / reception control unit 203 transmits the authentication information received by the operation reception unit 202 to the information processing apparatus 100, causing the authentication processing unit 183 of the information processing apparatus 100 to execute the authentication process and receiving the authentication result. Also, the transmission / reception control unit 203 receives the usage permission information from the information processing apparatus 100 and sends it to the display control unit 201. The display control unit 201 performs display based on the usage permission information. Specifically, based on the usage permission information, a menu screen is displayed that differentiates between functions that can be used and functions that cannot be used on the terminal device 200 side. The functional configuration of the terminal device 200 is as described above.

[0055] [1-7. Operation of Information Processing Apparatus] [1-7-1. Configuration of Operation Screen] Next, the operation of the information processing apparatus 100 will be described. First, as an operation of the information processing apparatus 100, the configuration of the operation screen displayed on the UI unit 170 of the information processing apparatus 100 will be described. Note that in this embodiment, the basic configuration is the same between the direct operation screen displayed on the UI unit 170 of the information processing apparatus 100 and the remote operation screen displayed on the display unit 240 of the terminal device 200, and the same operations can be performed on the information processing apparatus 100 and the terminal device 200. Note that the direct operation screen of the information processing apparatus 100 and the remote operation screen of the terminal device 200 do not completely match. For example, a function that is displayed in an available state on the direct operation screen of the information processing apparatus 100 may be displayed in an unavailable state on the remote operation screen of the terminal device 200. Also, as long as the same operations can be performed, the configurations of the direct operation screen of the information processing apparatus 100 and the remote operation screen of the terminal device 200 may be partially different.

[0056] Figure 7 shows the login screen 310, which is one of the operation screens. On this login screen 310, objects for entering authentication information (username and password) for logging in to the information processing apparatus 100 are displayed. Specifically, on the login screen 310, a username list 311 for selecting the username of the user to log in and a password input form 312 for entering the password are displayed. Also, on the login screen 310, a login button 313 for logging in (also referred to as logging on) based on the entered authentication information and a cancel button 314 for canceling the login are displayed.

[0057] The username list 311 displays the usernames of the users who can log in to and operate the information processing apparatus 100. The usernames included in this username list 311 are the usernames registered in the user information database 300 or the authentication information database 400.

[0058] The user uses the UI unit 170 (or the operation input unit 250 of the terminal device 200) to select their own username from the username list 311, enter the password registered in association with this username into the password input form 312, and press the login button 313 to log in to the information processing apparatus 100. Note that logging in to the information processing apparatus 100 is not limited to entering authentication information on such a screen. For example, an IC card storing the user's authentication information may be read by a card reader (not shown) provided in the information processing apparatus 100. The configuration of the login screen 310 is as described above.

[0059] Next, Figure 8 shows the home menu screen 320, which is one of the operation screens. On this home menu screen 320, objects for the user to use the functions of the information processing apparatus 100 are displayed. Specifically, on the home menu screen 320, a plurality of function buttons 321, a screen information column 301, an operator information column 302, and a logoff button 303 for logging off are displayed.

[0060] The function buttons 321 are buttons for an operation screen to use the functions of the information processing apparatus 100 and for displaying various types of information. In the example shown in FIG. 8, a total of six function buttons 321, namely, "Copy", "Scan", "Print", "Fax", "Job List", and "Other Settings", are displayed. The function button 321 for "Copy" is a button for displaying an operation screen for using the copying function. The function button 321 for "Scan" is a button for displaying an operation screen for using the image reading function. The function button 321 for "Print" is a button for displaying an operation screen for using the printing function. The function button 321 for "Fax" is a button for displaying an operation screen for using the facsimile function.

[0061] The function button 321 for "Job List" is a button for displaying a list of jobs (such as print jobs) executed in the past. The function button 321 for "Other Settings" is a button for displaying function buttons 321 that could not be fully displayed on the home menu screen 320 at once.

[0062] In the screen information column 301, the type of the currently displayed menu screen is displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 8, since the currently displayed menu screen is the home menu screen 320, the characters "Home" are displayed. In the operator information column 302, the user name of the logged-in operator (i.e., the user) is displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 8, "bbbb" is displayed as the user name of the logged-in operator. The configuration of the home menu screen 320 is as described above.

[0063] Next, FIG. 9 shows a copy menu screen 330, which is one of the operation screens. This copy menu screen 330 is a function menu screen that is switched and displayed from the home menu screen 320 when the function button 321 for "Copy" displayed on the home menu screen 320 is pressed.

[0064] On this copy menu screen 330, objects related to the copying function are displayed. Specifically, on the copy menu screen 330, there are a plurality of setting buttons 331 for performing various settings of the copying function, a return button 332 for returning to the home menu screen 320, and an execution button 333 for executing the copying function.

[0065] In the example shown in FIG. 9, six setting buttons 331 of "Color", "Paper Feed Tray", "Duplex", "Number of Copies", "Magnification / Reduction", and "Other Settings" are displayed. The setting button 331 for "Color" is a button for selecting whether to copy in monochrome printing or color printing. The setting button 331 for "Paper Feed Tray" is a button for selecting the tray for feeding paper. The setting button 331 for "Duplex" is a button for selecting whether to copy in single-sided printing or double-sided printing.

[0066] Also, the setting button 331 for "Number of Copies" is a button for specifying the number of printed copies when copying. The setting button 331 for "Magnification / Reduction" is a button for specifying the magnification of the image to be copied. The setting button 331 for "Other Settings" is a button for displaying the setting buttons 331 that could not be fully displayed on the copy menu screen 330 at once.

[0067] Also, on this copy menu screen 330, similar to the home menu screen 320, a screen information bar 301, an operator information bar 302, and a logoff button 303 are displayed. Since the currently displayed menu screen is the copy menu screen 330 in the screen information bar 301 of the copy menu screen 330, the character "Copy" is displayed. The operator information bar 302 displays the username of the logged-in operator (i.e., the user). In the example shown in FIG. 9, "bbbb" is displayed as the username of the logged-in operator. The configuration of the copy menu screen 330 is as described above.

[0068] Here, as an example, the copy menu screen 330 displayed when the function button 321 for "Copy" on the home menu screen 320 is pressed has been described. Similarly, when the function button 321 for "Scan" on the home menu screen 320 is pressed, a scan menu screen (not shown) is displayed, and when the function button 321 for "Fax" is pressed, a fax menu screen (not shown) is displayed. For function menu screens other than the copy menu screen 330, similar to the copy menu screen 330, a setting button, a return button, an execution button, a screen information bar 301, an operator information bar 302, and a logoff button 303 are displayed.

[0069] [1-7-2. Reception of Operations by a Plurality of Operation Means] Next, as an operation of the information processing apparatus 100, reception of operations by a plurality of operation means will be described. As described above, the information processing apparatus 100 is configured to receive remote operations by the terminal device 200 in addition to operations by the UI unit 170. Therefore, operations on the information processing apparatus 100 from a plurality of operation means may be performed almost simultaneously, such as from the UI unit 170 and the terminal device 200, or from the UI unit 170 and a plurality of terminal devices 200.

[0070] Here, for example, in the case of an operation to display the home menu screen 320 or an operation to display the job list, even if they are performed simultaneously by a plurality of operation means, the information processing apparatus 100 can handle them. Therefore, the information processing apparatus 100 allows such operations to be performed simultaneously by a plurality of operation means.

[0071] On the other hand, among the functions provided by the information processing apparatus 100, there are some that cannot be operated simultaneously (i.e., used simultaneously) by a plurality of operation means. For example, for the copy function, even if different settings or execution instructions are simultaneously given from a plurality of operation means, the information processing apparatus 100 cannot handle them. Therefore, in the information processing apparatus 100, for the copy function, when an operation such as a setting or an execution instruction is performed by one operation means, operations such as settings and execution instructions by other operation means are restricted. That is, when the exclusive control unit 184 of the information processing apparatus 100 grants the use right of the copy function to one operation means, it does not grant the use right of the copy function to other control means, thereby restricting the use of the copy function from other operation means.

[0072] In addition, since this copy function also uses the image forming unit 110 and the paper conveyance unit 130 in addition to the image reading unit 120, when the exclusive control unit 184 of the information processing apparatus 100 restricts operations for the copy function (i.e., restricts the use of the copy function), it also restricts operations for the image reading (scan) function that uses the image reading unit 120, and the printing (print) function and the facsimile (fax) function that use the image forming unit 110 and the paper conveyance unit 130.

[0073] Here, with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10, the operation screen when the information processing apparatus 100 is operated simultaneously by a plurality of operation means will be described. As described above, FIG. 9 is the copy menu screen 330. After the user "bbbb" logs in using the UI unit 170 as an operation means, it is the direct operation screen displayed after pressing the "Copy" function button 321 on the home menu screen 320.

[0074] On the other hand, FIG. 10 is the home menu screen 320, which is the remote operation screen displayed after the user "aaaa" logs in using the terminal device 200 as an operation means. In the home menu screen 320 shown in FIG. 10, since the currently displayed menu screen is the home menu screen 320 as the remote operation screen in the screen information column 301, the characters "Remote Home" are displayed.

[0075] As can be seen from the copy menu screen 330 shown in FIG. 9 and the home menu screen 320 shown in FIG. 10, when the information processing apparatus 100 is operated by a plurality of operation means simultaneously, information regarding other operation means being operated simultaneously is not displayed on the operation screen of each operation means. For example, information regarding the user "bbbb" is not displayed on the copy menu screen 330 operated by the user "aaaa".

[0076] On the other hand, at this time, since the user "aaaa" is operating the copy menu screen 330 using the UI unit 170, in the information processing apparatus 100, the copy function, image reading function, printing function, and facsimile function by operation means other than the UI unit 170 are restricted. For this reason, on the home menu screen 320 operated by the user "bbbb", instead of the function buttons 321 for "Copy", "Scan", "Print", and "Fax", unusable buttons 304 for "Copy", "Scan", "Print", and "Fax" are displayed, and the copy function, image reading function, printing function, and facsimile function cannot be used.

[0077] In this way, in the information processing apparatus 100, when the use authority of a function to be subject to exclusive control is given to one operation means (for example, the UI unit 170), the use authority of the function is not given to other operation means, thereby restricting so that the function cannot be used from other control means (for example, the terminal device 200).

[0078] Incidentally, the display control unit 181 of the information processing apparatus 100 and the display control unit 201 of the terminal device 200 acquire use authority information from the use authority information management unit 185 of the information processing apparatus 100, and display the operation screens shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 based on the content of the use authority information (that is, which function use authority is given to which operation means).

[0079] [1-7-3. Exclusive Control] Next, as the operation of the information processing apparatus 100, exclusive control will be described in detail. Note that the exclusive control described below is performed by the exclusive control unit 184 of the information processing apparatus 100 in cooperation with the UI unit 170, the terminal device 200, and the like. When the state of restricting the operation on a function (i.e., the use of the function) to only one operation means continues in performing the exclusive control, inconveniences may occur. For example, when an operator (user) who is operating using one operation means given the use authority of a function forgets to release the use authority of the function, an operator who is trying to operate using another operation means will be unnecessarily kept waiting.

[0080] Therefore, in the information processing apparatus 100, an operation can be performed to request the delegation of the use authority from another control means (i.e., the requesting-side operation means) to one operation means (i.e., the holding-side operation means) that holds the use authority of the function.

[0081] As a specific operation example, consider a case where the copy menu screen 330 shown in FIG. 9 is displayed on the holding-side operation means (e.g., the UI unit 170 operated by the user "bbbb"), and the home menu screen 320 shown in FIG. 10 is displayed on the requesting-side operation means (e.g., the terminal device 200 operated by the user "aaaa"), and the unusable button 304 for "Copy" is pressed on the home menu screen 320 shown in FIG. 10.

[0082] Even if the unusable button 304 for "Copy" is pressed on the home menu screen 320 by the requesting-side operation means in this way, since the use authority of the copying function is on the holding-side operation means, the screen will not immediately switch from the home menu screen 320 to the copy menu screen 330. In this case, the requesting-side operation means requests the holding-side operation means for the use authority of the copying function.

[0083] Here, the copy menu screen 330 displayed on the holding-side operation means side is referred to as the holding-side operation screen 330, and the home menu screen 320 displayed on the requesting-side operation means side is referred to as the requesting-side operation screen 320.

[0084] When the "Copy" disable button 304 is pressed by the user "aaaa" on the request-side operation screen 320 shown in FIG. 10, as shown in FIG. 11(B), a dialog box 306 for requesting the usage right is displayed on this request-side operation screen 320 for the operation means (UI unit 170 operated by the user "bbbb") that holds the usage right of the copying function.

[0085] This dialog box 306 displays a message ( "User: bbbb is in use") Ms1 indicating that another operator is using the copying function, a message ( "Do you request the usage right?") Ms2 asking whether to request the usage right, an OK button 306a for selecting to request the usage right, and a return button 306b for dismissing the dialog box 306 without requesting the usage right.

[0086] Here, when the user "aaaa" presses the OK button 306a, a usage right request is sent from the request-side operation means (for example, the terminal device 200) to the holding-side operation means (for example, the UI unit 170).

[0087] Upon receiving the usage right request from the request-side operation means (terminal device 200), the holding-side operation means (UI unit 170) accordingly displays, as shown in FIG. 11(A), a dialog box 305 on the holding-side operation screen 330 for responding to the usage right request from the request-side operation means (terminal device 200 operated by the user "aaaa").

[0088] This dialog box 305 displays a message ( "Usage request from user: aaaa") Ms3 indicating that the usage right is being requested from another operator, a message ( "Do you delegate the usage right?") Ms4 asking whether to delegate the usage right, a permission button 305a for selecting to delegate the usage right, and a rejection button 305b for selecting to reject the transfer of the usage right.

[0089] Here, when the user "bbbb" operating the holding-side operation means (UI unit 170) presses the permission button 305a, the usage permission is delegated from the requesting-side operation means (UI unit 170) to the holding-side operation means (terminal device 200). In this case, the usage permission information management unit 185 of the information processing apparatus 100 updates the usage permission information so as to change the operation means having the usage permission of the copying function and the usage permissions of the image reading function, printing function, and facsimile function from the holding-side operation means (UI unit 170) to the requesting-side operation means (terminal device 200). As a result, the usage permissions of the copying function, image reading function, printing function, and facsimile function are delegated from the holding-side operation means to the requesting-side operation means.

[0090] As a result, the operation screen displayed on the requesting-side operation means (terminal device 200) side switches from the requesting-side operation screen 320 shown in FIG. 11(B) to the copy menu screen 330 shown in FIG. 12(B). Thereby, the copying function can be used on the requesting-side operation means (terminal device 200) side.

[0091] In addition, when the usage permissions of the copying function, image reading function, printing function, and facsimile function are delegated from the holding-side operation means (UI unit 170) to the requesting-side operation means (terminal device 200), the operation screen displayed on the holding-side operation means (UI unit 170) side is forcibly returned from the holding-side operation screen (i.e., the copy menu operation screen) 330 to the home menu screen 320. At this time, since the usage permissions of the copying function, image reading function, printing function, and facsimile function are delegated to the requesting-side operation means, instead of the function buttons 321 for "Copy", "Scan", "Print", and "Fax", the unusable buttons 304 for "Copy", "Scan", "Print", and "Fax" are displayed on the home menu screen 320 displayed on the holding-side operation means side, and the copying function, image reading function, printing function, and facsimile function cannot be used.

[0092] Here, when the user "bbbb" presses the "Copy" disable button 304, as shown in Fig. 12(A), a dialog box 306 for requesting the usage permission for the operation means (the terminal device 200 operated by the user "aaaa") that has delegated the usage permission of the copying function is displayed on this home menu screen 320. Thereafter, in the same procedure as when the usage permission is delegated from the above-described holding-side operation means (UI unit 170) to the requesting-side operation means (terminal device 200), the usage permission can be delegated (returned) from the requesting-side operation means to the holding-side operation means.

[0093] On the other hand, when the user "bbbb" operating the holding-side operation means (UI unit 170) presses the rejection button 305b of the dialog box 305 shown in Fig. 11(A), the usage permission is not delegated from the requesting-side operation means (UI unit 170) to the holding-side operation means (terminal device 200), and the holding-side operation means continues to hold the usage permission. In this case, on the requesting-side operation means (terminal device 200) side, the requesting-side operation screen 320 shown in Fig. 10 continues to be displayed, and the states where the copying function, image reading function, printing function, and facsimile function cannot be used continue.

[0094] Furthermore, in the exclusive control by the information processing apparatus 100, as shown in Fig. 11(A), after the dialog box 305 is displayed on the holding-side operation means (UI unit 170) side, when a predetermined time elapses without either the permission button 305a or the rejection button 305b being pressed, the usage permission is forcibly delegated from the holding-side operation means to the requesting-side operation means. By doing so, even when the operator (user "bbbb") of the holding-side operation means (UI unit 170) leaves the holding-side operation means while the holding-side operation screen 330 is being displayed and there is no response from the operator of the holding-side operation means, the usage permission can be delegated to the requesting-side operation means. Thereby, a situation where the operator (user "aaaa") of the requesting-side operation means (terminal device 200) is unnecessarily kept waiting can be avoided. Incidentally, in this case, on the holding-side operation means (UI unit 170) side, the operation screen is forcibly returned to the home menu screen 320.

[0095] On the other hand, in exclusive control, after displaying the dialog box 305 on the side of the holding-side operation means (UI unit 170), even if a predetermined time has elapsed without either the permission button 305a or the rejection button 305b being pressed, if the replacement work of the consumable is being performed on the information processing apparatus 100, the holding-side operation means is not forced to delegate the usage right to the requesting-side operation means. Details of the consumable replacement will be described later.

[0096] Furthermore, in the exclusive control by the information processing apparatus 100, for example, when the operator (user "bbbb") presses the return button 332 on the copy menu screen 330 on the side of the holding-side operation means (UI unit 170) and returns to the home menu screen 320, or when the operator presses the logoff button 303 on the copy menu screen 330 and logs off, the usage rights of the possessed copy function, image reading function, printing function, and facsimile function are released. When the usage right is delegated to the requesting-side operation means, the usage right is released in the same procedure.

[0097] In this case, the usage right information management unit 185 of the information processing apparatus 100 deletes the usage right information indicating the operation means that holds the usage rights of the copy function, image reading function, printing function, and facsimile function. As a result, the usage rights of the copy function, image reading function, printing function, and facsimile function are released.

[0098] Also, for example, after the usage right of the copy function is delegated from the holding-side operation means (UI unit 170) to the requesting-side operation means (terminal device 200), if a predetermined time elapses in a state where no response is received from the requesting-side operation means, the usage right of the copy function or the like may be forcibly returned to the holding-side operation means.

[0099] Furthermore, for example, after rejecting the request for the usage right of the copy function from the requesting-side operation means (terminal device 200) on the side of the holding-side operation means (UI unit 170), if a predetermined time elapses in a state where no response is received from the holding-side operation means, the usage right of the copy function may be forcibly delegated to the requesting-side operation means.

[0100] In this way, it is possible to avoid a situation where the operator of the holding-side operation means or the operator of the request-side operation means is unnecessarily kept waiting. The exclusive control by the information processing apparatus 100 is as described above.

[0101] [1-7-4. Consumable Replacement] Next, as an operation of the information processing apparatus 100, the replacement of consumables will be described in detail. In the information processing apparatus 100, when the recording paper 14 in the paper tray 11 runs out, the toner in each image forming unit 25 runs out, or the photosensitive drum 30 needs to be replaced while the copying function or the like is being executed according to an operation by the holding-side operation means (UI unit 170 or terminal device 200). In this case, in the information processing apparatus 100, it becomes necessary to replace consumables such as the recording paper 14, toner, and photosensitive drum 30. Here, it is assumed that the replacement of consumables includes the replenishment of consumables.

[0102] In this case, the operator (user) of the holding-side operation means, for example, goes from the installation location of the information processing apparatus 100 to the storage location of the consumables to pick up the consumables, returns to the installation location of the information processing apparatus 100 again, and performs the replacement work of the consumables. At this time, since the operator (user) cannot operate the holding-side operation means until the replacement work of the consumables is completed, for example, even if there is a request for the use right of the copying function or the like from the request-side operation means, it cannot respond.

[0103] Therefore, as described above, in the information processing apparatus 100, while the replacement work of the consumables is being performed, even if nothing is responded from the holding-side operation means and it is left unattended for a predetermined time, the use right is not delegated to the request-side operation means.

[0104] Specifically, when the consumable needs to be replaced while the user "bbbb" is using the copying function from the UI unit 170, for example, as shown in FIG. 13(A), the exclusive control unit 184 of the information processing apparatus 100 causes a dialog box 307 for responding to consumable replacement to be displayed on the copy menu screen 330. Note that when the exclusive control unit 184 receives a notification from the consumable management unit 187, for example, indicating that the consumable needs to be replaced, it instructs the display control unit 181 to display the dialog box 307.

[0105] This dialog box 307 displays a message ( "Do you want to replace the consumable?") Ms11 asking whether to replace the consumable, a "Yes" button 307a for selecting to replace the consumable, and a "No" button 307b for selecting not to replace the consumable.

[0106] Here, when the user "bbbb" presses the "Yes" button 307a, instead of the dialog box 307, a dialog box 308 shown in FIG. 13(B) is displayed. This dialog box 308 displays a message ( "During consumable replacement") indicating that the consumable replacement operation is in progress, and a return button 308a for selecting to return from the consumable replacement operation.

[0107] The exclusive control unit 184 continues to display this dialog box 308 until the return button 308a of the dialog box 308 is pressed, or until it receives notifications from both the consumable management unit 187 and the device state management unit 188 indicating that the consumable replacement operation has been completed. While the exclusive control unit 184 is displaying this dialog box 308, even if no response is obtained from the holding-side operation means for a predetermined time, the usage right is not delegated to the requesting-side operation means.

[0108] If it continues to wait indefinitely until the return button 308a is pressed or until it receives a notification from both the consumable management unit 187 and the device status management unit 188 that the consumable replacement work has been completed, it will unnecessarily keep the operator of the requesting-side operation means waiting. Therefore, for example, if the working time required for the consumable replacement work (a time longer than the predetermined time) is set, the return button 308a is not pressed, and the set working time has elapsed without receiving a notification from both the consumable management unit 187 and the device status management unit 188 that the consumable replacement work has been completed, the state of not delegating the usage right to the requesting-side operation means may be released. Note that this working time may be input by the user who performs the consumable replacement work before performing the consumable replacement work, or a predetermined working time (for example, 5 minutes) may be set in advance.

[0109] Also, when the "No" button 307b for selecting not to perform the consumable replacement is pressed, the holding-side operation means may delegate the usage right it holds to the requesting-side operation means. Also, when there is no requesting-side operation means, etc., the holding-side operation means may release the usage right it holds. The consumable replacement for the information processing apparatus 100 is as described above.

[0110] [1-8. Transition of the operation screen] Next, FIG. 14 shows a transition diagram of the operation screen displayed on the UI unit 170 of the information processing apparatus 100 and the display unit 240 of the terminal apparatus 200. Note that in FIG. 14, the menu screen of the function subject to exclusive control (for example, the copy menu screen 330) is described as the exclusive screen Sc1, and the menu screen of the function not subject to exclusive control (for example, the home menu screen 320) is described as the normal screen Sc2.

[0111] Also, in FIG. 14, an operator who is displaying (or attempting to display) the same exclusive screen is described as a competing operator. That is, a competing operator, as seen from an operator who is attempting to display an exclusive screen using one operation means, is another operator who is already displaying the same exclusive screen using another operation means, or, as seen from an operator who is displaying an exclusive screen using one operation means, is another operator who is newly attempting to display the same exclusive screen using another operation means.

[0112] Since the screen transition has been described in detail above, it will be briefly explained here. As shown in FIG. 14, when an operator attempts to transition from the normal screen Sc2 to the exclusive screen Sc1, if there is no competing operator, the operator can freely transition to the exclusive screen. On the other hand, if there is a competing operator, the state becomes a waiting-for-approval (i.e., waiting-for-permission) state St1 of the competing operator. And if the competing operator gives permission, the operator can transition to the exclusive screen Sc1, but if it is rejected, the operator cannot transition to the exclusive screen Sc1 and remains on the normal screen Sc2. Also, the operator can freely transition from the exclusive screen Sc1 to the normal screen Sc2.

[0113] The basic states of the operation means when the exclusive screen Sc1 is being displayed are an exclusive state operation in progress St2, which is a state where an operation is being performed in an exclusive state (a state where usage permission is given only to the operation means), an exclusive state left unattended St3, which is a state where the operation has not been performed for a predetermined time in the exclusive state (i.e., a state where no response has been obtained from the operation means for a predetermined time and it has been left unattended), and an exclusive state exchange in progress St4, which is a state where a consumable is being exchanged in the exclusive state. Note that the exclusive state operation in progress St2 also includes a state where the information processing apparatus 100 is operating in response to an operation on the operation means. Therefore, the exclusive state left unattended St3 is a state where no operation is being performed on the operation means (i.e., there is no response from the operation means) and the function execution unit 186 is not executing a function in response to an operation on the operation means. Specifically, for example, a state from when the function execution unit 186 starts printing until it finishes printing by an operation on the operation means is included in the exclusive state operation in progress St2.

[0114] When, while the operator is in the exclusive state operation state St2, a transition to the exclusive screen Sc1 by a competing operator is requested (i.e., when the usage right is requested), it becomes the state St5 where it is confirmed whether or not to delegate the usage right of the function of the exclusive screen Sc1 (see Fig. 11(A)). And when the operator approves (permits) the delegation of the usage right, or when a predetermined time has elapsed without either approving or rejecting the delegation, the usage right is delegated to the competing operator, and it becomes the competing operator usage state St6 where the operator cannot transition to the exclusive screen Sc1. In this case, the operation screen on the operator side returns to the normal screen Sc2. Note that when there is no competing operator, it does not become the competing operator usage state St6, and only the usage right of the operator is released.

[0115] When, in the exclusive state left unattended state St3, a transition to the exclusive screen Sc1 is requested from a competing operator, without obtaining confirmation from the operator, the usage right is delegated to the competing operator, and it becomes the competing operator usage state St6. Also, when in the competing operator usage state St6, if no operation is performed by the competing operator for a predetermined time, it becomes the state St7 where the locked state where transition to the exclusive screen Sc1 is not possible can be released. Here, when the operator has requested a transition to the exclusive screen Sc1, it becomes the exclusive state operation state St2.

[0116] Also, when in the exclusive state operation state St2 and the operator performs consumable replacement when consumable replacement becomes necessary, it becomes the exclusive state replacement in progress state St4 where the usage right is not delegated even if left unattended for a predetermined time (see Fig. 13(B)). Note that even when in the exclusive state replacement in progress state St4, if left unattended continuously exceeding the preset working time, it becomes the exclusive state left unattended state St3. Also, when in the exclusive state operation state St2 and although consumable replacement becomes necessary, the operator does not perform consumable replacement, it becomes the competing operator usage state St6. In this case, the operation screen on the operator side returns to the normal screen Sc2. Also in this case, when there is no competing operator, it does not become the competing operator usage state St6, and only the usage right of the operator is released.

[0117] Even when the consumables need to be replaced, it is conceivable that the operator does not replace the consumables. For example, when the operator is using the copying function and the toner runs out and needs to be replaced, but the operator does not know how to replace the toner and cannot replace it. In such a case, naturally, the information processing apparatus 100 cannot use the copying function. In such a case, if there is a competing operator, by setting the competing operator's usage status to St6, the usage right is delegated to the competing operator. In this case, the competing operator will replace the consumables on behalf of the operator. The transition of the operation screen is as described above.

[0118] [1-9. Summary and Effects] As described so far, in the first embodiment, the information processing apparatus 100 includes an authentication processing unit 183 that performs login authentication based on an operation performed on the UI unit 170 as an operation unit, and after the login authentication, gives the UI unit 170 the usage right of a function. After giving the usage right, when there is no response from the UI unit 170 for a predetermined time (that is, when no operation is performed on the UI unit 170 and the function execution unit 186 is not executing the function), an exclusive control unit 184 that releases the usage right given to the UI unit 170, and a function execution unit 186 that executes a function based on an operation performed on the UI unit 170 when the UI unit 170 has the usage right of the function, and a consumable management unit 187 and a device state management unit 188 as state detection units that detect the state of the information processing apparatus 100 as its own device are provided.

[0119] And the exclusive control unit 184 is configured to determine whether to release the usage right given to the UI unit 170 after a predetermined time based on the detection results of the consumable management unit 187 and the device state management unit 188. Specifically, when the consumable management unit 187 and the device state management unit 188 detect that the state of the information processing apparatus 100 is a predetermined state (that is, a state where consumables need to be replaced) and a predetermined operation (that is, a consumable replacement operation) for the predetermined state is being performed, the exclusive control unit 184 does not release the usage right given to the UI unit 170 even after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0120] That is, while the exclusive control unit 184 of the information processing apparatus 100 detects that the state of the information processing apparatus 100 is a state where replacement of consumables is necessary by the consumable management unit 187 and the apparatus state management unit 188, it does not release the usage right given to the UI unit 170 even after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0121] By doing so, in the information processing apparatus 100, it is possible to avoid a situation where the usage right of the function being used is released while the user is performing the consumable replacement work, and the user can continue to use the function being used as it is after the consumable replacement work is completed. Thus, according to the information processing apparatus 100 of the first embodiment, the work efficiency can be improved as compared with the conventional case.

[0122] Further, the information processing apparatus 100 can be operated from a plurality of operation means (for example, the UI unit 170 and the terminal device 200), and the exclusive control unit 184 gives the usage right of a function to one operation means (for example, the UI unit 170), and after giving the usage right, if there is no response from the one operation means for a predetermined time, it transfers the usage right given to the one operation means to another operation means (for example, the terminal device 200).

[0123] Moreover, when the exclusive control unit 184 detects that the state of the information processing apparatus 100 is a state where replacement of consumables is necessary by the consumable management unit 187, if the user selects not to perform the consumable replacement work by operating the UI unit 170, it releases the usage right given to the UI unit 170.

[0124] By doing so, for example, when the user operating the UI unit 170 cannot replace the consumables, etc., by releasing the usage right given to the UI unit 170 and transferring it to the terminal device 200, the user operating the terminal device 200 can be made to perform the consumable replacement work instead.

[0125] Further, when the exclusive control unit 184 detects that the state of the information processing apparatus 100 is a state where replacement of consumables is necessary by the consumable management unit 187 and the apparatus state management unit 188, and the set working time has elapsed but the consumable management unit 187 and the apparatus state management unit 188 do not detect that the replacement work of the consumables for the information processing apparatus 100 has been completed, the exclusive control unit 184 releases the usage right given to the UI unit 170.

[0126] By doing so, for example, when the user operating the UI unit 170 abandons the consumable replacement work halfway, the usage right given to the UI unit 170 is released and delegated to the terminal device 200, so that the user operating the terminal device 200 can perform the consumable replacement work instead.

[0127] [2. Second Embodiment] Next, the second embodiment will be described. In this second embodiment, a part of the exclusive control by the exclusive control unit 184 of the information processing apparatus 100 is different from that of the first embodiment. Therefore, here, mainly the parts different from the first embodiment will be described, and the description of the same parts as those of the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0128] Second, the second embodiment has the same configuration as that of FIGS. 1 to 6 described as the first embodiment. Further, the second embodiment performs the same operations as those of FIGS. 7 to 12 described as the first embodiment. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, the exclusive control when replacing the consumables of the information processing apparatus 100 is different from that of the first embodiment.

[0129] [2-1. Exclusive Control at the Time of Consumable Replacement] In the first embodiment, when the consumable replacement work is being performed on the information processing apparatus 100, the usage right of the function is not delegated to the requesting-side operation means. However, in the second embodiment, for the functions that can be used even during the consumable replacement work, the usage right is temporarily delegated to the requesting-side operation means only during the consumable replacement work.

[0130] For a specific example, when the toner runs out and the toner replacement work is performed while using the copying function of the information processing apparatus 100, since the image reading (scanning) function does not use toner, it can be used even during the toner replacement work. Therefore, when the function for which the use permission is requested from the requesting-side operation means is the image reading function, during the toner replacement work, the use permission of the image reading function is temporarily delegated to the requesting-side operation means. By doing so, the operator of the requesting-side operation means can use the image reading function without waiting until the toner replacement work is completed and further the use of the copying function by the holding-side operation means ends.

[0131] In this case, for example, on the side of the holding-side operation means (for example, the UI unit 170) operated by the user "bbbb", in order to select to perform the consumable replacement work, when the operator (user "bbbb") presses the "Yes" button 307a of the dialog box 307 shown in FIG. 13(A), as shown in FIG. 15(A), the dialog box 307 switches to the dialog box 340.

[0132] In this dialog box 340, a message ( "During consumable replacement work", "About 5 minutes") Ms21 indicating that the consumable replacement work is in progress and the working time thereof, and a message ( "Delegating the use permission to other operation means", "The use permission will be preferentially returned after the replacement work") Ms22 indicating delegating the use permission to other operation means and preferentially returning the use permission after the consumable replacement work are displayed. Note that this working time may be input to the user who performs the consumable replacement work before performing the consumable replacement work, or a predetermined working time (for example, 5 minutes) may be set in advance. Also, this working time may be set to the time required for the previous consumable replacement work, or may be set to the average time required for the consumable replacement work so far.

[0133] At this time, the usage right information management unit 185 updates the usage right information so that the usage right of the image reading function that can be used during the consumable replacement operation is released from the holding side operation means. As a result, the usage right of the image reading function has been released from the holding side operation means.

[0134] On the other hand, at this time, for example, on the side of the requesting side operation means (for example, the terminal device 200) operated by the user "aaaa", among the unusable buttons 304 of each function displayed on the home menu screen 320, the unusable button 304 for "scan" is switched to the function button 321 for "scan", indicating that the image reading function has become usable.

[0135] Here, when the user "aaaa" presses the function button 321 for "scan", as shown in FIG. 15(B), a dialog box 341 is displayed on the home menu screen 320.

[0136] This dialog box 341 displays a message ( "User: bbbb is in the replacement operation") Ms23 indicating that it is during the consumable replacement operation, a message ( "Available for about 5 minutes", "Do you want to use it?") Ms24 asking whether the specified function (in this case, the image reading function) is available for a predetermined time and whether to use this function, a "Yes" button 310a for selecting to use, a "No" button 310b for selecting not to use, and a message ( "After the replacement operation is completed, the usage right will be preferentially transferred to bbbb") Ms25 indicating that the usage right will be restored after the replacement operation is completed.

[0137] Here, when the "Yes" button 310a is pressed by the user "aaaa", the operation screen switches to a scan menu screen (not shown in the figure). Also, the usage right information management unit 185 creates usage right information indicating that the usage right of the image reading function has been given to the requesting side operation means. As a result, the usage right of the image reading function is given to the requesting side operation means. After that, when the consumable replacement work is completed, the usage right of the image reading function will be delegated from the requesting side operation means to the holding side operation means.

[0138] [2-2. Transition of the operation screen] Next, FIG. 16 shows a transition diagram of the operation screen according to the second embodiment. Note that the transition diagram shown in this FIG. 16 is the same as the transition diagram shown in FIG. 14, except for a part. Therefore, here, only the parts different from the transition diagram shown in FIG. 14 will be described.

[0139] In the transition diagram shown in FIG. 16, the part that transitions from the exclusive state exchange in progress St4 to the waiting for confirmation of competing operator St10 and then to the competing operator operating St11 is different from the transition diagram in FIG. 14.

[0140] That is, on the exclusive screen Sc1, when, during the exclusive state exchange in progress St4 where the consumable replacement work is being performed, a competing operator requests the usage right for a function that can be used during the consumable replacement work, it becomes the waiting for confirmation of competing operator St10, and the competing operator is asked whether to use the function only during the consumable replacement work (see FIG. 15(B)). Here, if the competing operator selects to use the function only during the consumable replacement work, it becomes the competing operator operating St11, and the competing operator uses the function on the exclusive screen Sc1. After that, if the operation by the competing operator is completed (when the use of the function is completed) before the work time of the consumable replacement work elapses, or when the work time has elapsed, it again becomes the exclusive state exchange in progress St4, and the usage right that was delegated to the competing operator is returned to the operator. The transition of the operation screen is as described above.

[0141] [2-3. Summary and effects] As described so far, in the second embodiment, when the exclusive control unit 184 of the information processing apparatus 100 is on the side of the holding operation means (for example, the UI unit 170) and the consumable replacement work of the information processing apparatus 100 is being performed, for the functions that can be used even during the consumable replacement work, temporarily until the consumable replacement work is completed, the request side operation means (for example, the terminal device 200) is made to delegate the usage right.

[0142] By doing so, the operator operating the request side operation means can use the function without waiting until the consumable replacement work of the information processing apparatus 100 is completed and further until the use of the function by the holding side operation means is completed. Thus, according to the second embodiment, the work efficiency can be further improved as compared with the first embodiment.

[0143] [3. Other Embodiments] [3-1. Other Embodiment 1] In addition, in the first embodiment described above, when the usage right given to the operation means is released (or delegated), the operation screen on the operation means side is set to return to the home menu screen 320. However, it is not limited to this. For example, by logging off the operation means, the usage right given to the operation means may be released (or delegated), and the operation screen on the operation means side may be set to return to the login screen 310. The same applies to the second embodiment.

[0144] Moreover, it is not limited to this. When the usage right given to the operation means is released (or delegated), the function menu screen such as the copy menu screen 330 may be continuously displayed as it is without returning the operation screen on the operation means side to the home menu screen 320. In this case, since the usage right is released, it is sufficient that the operation on the function menu screen (that is, the use of the function) cannot be performed. The same applies to the second embodiment.

[0145] Also, in the above-described first embodiment, while an operator (i.e., an operator logged in to the information processing apparatus 100) operating the information processing apparatus 100 by one operation means is performing the consumable replacement work of the information processing apparatus 100, the use permission is not delegated to other operation means. Here, for example, when there is no other operation means, that is, when only one operator is logged in to the information processing apparatus 100, while the one operator is performing the consumable replacement work of the information processing apparatus 100, the use permission given to the one operation means may not be released, or the one operator may not be logged off. The same applies to the second embodiment.

[0146] [3-2. Other Embodiment 2] Furthermore, in the above-described first embodiment, while an operator operating the information processing apparatus 100 by one operation means is performing the consumable replacement work of the information processing apparatus 100, the use permission is not delegated to other operation means. Not limited to this, for example, while the one operator is performing the work of eliminating an error (such as paper jam) occurring in the information processing apparatus 100, the use permission may not be delegated to other operation means.

[0147] In this case, for example, the image forming unit 110, the image reading unit 120, and the paper conveyance unit 130 of the information processing apparatus 100 each have a function of detecting an error occurring in itself and notifying the detected error to the apparatus state management unit 188. The apparatus state management unit 188 may determine whether the state of the information processing apparatus 100 is in the process of error elimination work based on the notified error and the opening and closing of the paper tray 11, the opening and closing of the cover 50, etc., and notify the exclusive control unit 184.

[0148] In this way, it is possible to avoid a situation where the use permission of the function being used is released while the user is performing the error elimination work, and the user can continue to use the function being used as it is after the error elimination work is completed.

[0149] Further, it may be configured to detect that an operation other than the consumable replacement operation or the error resolution operation (i.e., an operation performed separately from the operation of using the function) is being performed, and not to release the usage right given to one operation means while the operation is being performed.

[0150] In the information processing apparatus 100, the apparatus state management unit 188 determines that such an operation is being performed based on the opening and closing of the paper tray 11 or the cover 50. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, if a human sensor is provided in the information processing apparatus 100 and the apparatus state management unit 188 detects an operator near the information processing apparatus 100 although there is no response from the operation means, it may be determined that the operator is performing a predetermined operation without using the operation means for the information processing apparatus 100.

[0151] [3-3. Other Embodiment 3] Furthermore, in the first embodiment described above, the user information database 300 and the authentication information database 400 are provided separately from the information processing apparatus 100, but these databases may be constructed in the storage unit 190 of the information processing apparatus 100.

[0152] [3-4. Other Embodiment 4] In each of the above-described embodiments, the present invention is applied to the information processing apparatus 100 that allows multiple operators to log in simultaneously. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it can also be applied to an information processing apparatus in which the number of operators who can log in simultaneously is limited to one. In this case, while the logged-in operator is performing an operation such as a consumable replacement operation, control may be performed so as not to log off this operator.

[0153] Furthermore, in each of the above-described embodiments, the present invention is applied to the information processing apparatus 100 configured as a multifunction device. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and it can be applied to various information processing apparatuses that allow an operator to use various functions by logging in.

[0154] [3-5. Other Embodiment 5] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to each of the above-described embodiments. That is, the present invention is applicable to embodiments in which some or all of the above-described embodiments are arbitrarily combined, or embodiments in which some are extracted.

Industrial Applicability

[0155] The present invention can be widely used, for example, in an image forming apparatus including a fixing unit.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0156] 1... Information processing system, 100... Information processing apparatus, 110... Image forming unit, 120... Image reading unit, 130... Paper conveyance unit, 140... Fax transmission / reception control unit, 150... Transmission / reception unit, 160... Data processing unit, 170... UI unit, 180... Control unit, 181... Display control unit, 182... Operation reception unit, 183... Authentication processing unit, 184... Exclusive control unit, 185... Usage right information management unit, 186... Function execution unit, 187... Consumable management unit, 188... Apparatus state management unit, 190... Storage unit, 200... Terminal device, 201... Display control unit, 202... Operation reception unit, 203... Transmission / reception control unit, 210... CPU, 220... Storage unit, 230... Transmission / reception unit, 240... Display unit, 250... Operation input unit, 304... Disable button, 305 - 310... Dialog box, 310... Login screen, 320... Home menu screen, 321... Function button, 330... Copy menu screen, 321... Function button.

Claims

1. An authentication processing unit that performs login authentication based on an operation performed on an operation means; After the login authentication, a usage permission for using a function is given to the operation means, and after giving the usage permission, if there is no response from the operation means for a predetermined time, an exclusive control unit that releases the usage permission given to the operation means; A function execution unit that executes the function based on an operation performed on the operation means when the usage permission for the function is given to the operation means; A state detection unit that detects the state of the own device and comprising The exclusive control unit When the own device is in a predetermined state and a predetermined operation for the predetermined state is being performed, even if the predetermined time elapses without a response from the operation means, the usage permission given to the operation means is not released. When the own device is in the predetermined state and the working time set to be longer than the predetermined time elapses without the state detection unit detecting that the operation has been completed, the usage permission given to the operation means is released. An information processing apparatus characterized by the above.

2. An authentication processing unit that performs login authentication based on an operation performed on an operation means; After the login authentication, a usage permission for using a function is given to the operation means, and after giving the usage permission, if there is no response from the operation means for a predetermined time, an exclusive control unit that releases the usage permission given to the operation means; A function execution unit that executes the function based on an operation performed on the operation means when the usage permission for the function is given to the operation means; A state detection unit that detects the state of the own device and comprising The exclusive control unit When the own device is in a predetermined state and a predetermined operation for the predetermined state is being performed, even if the predetermined time elapses without a response from the operation means, the usage permission given to the operation means is not released. When an operation for selecting not to perform the predetermined operation for the predetermined state is performed on the operation means while the own device is in the predetermined state, the usage permission given to the operation means is released. An information processing apparatus characterized by the above.

3. The predetermined state is a state where replacement of consumables is necessary The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the above.

4. The predetermined operation is an operation for replacing consumables The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, characterized by the above.

5. The case where there is no response from the operation means means that no operation has been performed on the operation means and the function execution unit is not executing a function. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that.

6. An information processing apparatus that can be operated from a plurality of the operation means authenticated by login, wherein the exclusive control unit after giving the right to use a function to one of the operation means, if there is no response from the one operation means for a predetermined time, the right to use given to the one operation means is delegated to another of the operation means, furthermore, the exclusive control unit while the own apparatus is in the predetermined state, even if the predetermined time elapses without a response from the one operation means, the right to use given to the one operation means is not delegated to the other operation means The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that.

7. The exclusive control unit when the function for which the right to use has been given to the one operation means is a function that can be used even during the predetermined work, while the own apparatus is in the predetermined state, the right to use given to the one operation means is delegated to the other operation means The information processing apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that.

8. The exclusive control unit when the state detection unit detects that the work has been completed, returns the right to use given to the other operation means to the one operation means The information processing apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that.

9. An information processing method by an information processing apparatus, an authentication processing unit performs login authentication based on an operation performed on an operation means, after the login authentication, gives the right to use a function to the operation means, and after giving the right to use, if there is no response from the operation means for a predetermined time, an exclusive control unit that releases the right to use given to the operation means, when the state of the information processing apparatus detected by the state detection unit is a predetermined state and a predetermined work for the predetermined state is being performed, even if the predetermined time elapses without a response from the operation means, does not release the right to use given to the operation means, when the information processing apparatus is in the predetermined state and even if a work time set longer than the predetermined time elapses and the state detection unit does not detect that the work has been completed, releases the right to use given to the operation means An information processing method, characterized in that.

10. An information processing method by an information processing apparatus, wherein an authentication processing unit performs login authentication based on an operation performed on an operation means, after the login authentication, gives a usage right to use a function to the operation means, and after giving the usage right, when there is no response from the operation means for a predetermined time, an exclusive control unit that releases the usage right given to the operation means, when the state of the information processing apparatus detected by a state detection unit is a predetermined state and a predetermined operation for the predetermined state is being performed, does not release the usage right given to the operation means even if the predetermined time elapses without a response from the operation means, and when an operation for selecting not to perform the predetermined operation for the predetermined state is performed on the operation means while the information processing apparatus is in the predetermined state, releases the usage right given to the operation means characterized by the above.

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