Image forming apparatus and control method thereof

Abstract

To improve safety upon printing on the basis of printing data transmitted from an external terminal.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus 10 related to this invention can set an automatic deletion function. The automatic deletion function is the function of automatically deleting printing job data from a printing job table when a printing job is stopped during the execution of the printing job based on the printing job data registered in the printing job table. In addition, the image forming apparatus 10 comprises a person detection sensor for detecting a person. On this condition, the image forming apparatus 10, in a state that the automatic deletion function is set, deletes the printing job data matching the printing job from the printing job table when the printing job is stopped during the execution of the printing job, that is, when a person is not detected by the person detection sensor.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus and a control method thereof, and more particularly to an image forming apparatus and a control method thereof that receive print data transmitted from an external terminal and form an image on a recording medium according to the received print data.

Background Art

[0002] An example of this type of background art is disclosed in Patent Document 1. When the background art receiving document processing apparatus detects a failure during printing of received document data, it notifies the user of the occurrence of the failure via a display device, and when the user performs a predetermined input operation from an input device, the printing process is aborted and the received document data is saved as a file in a specific file storage area.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the background art receiving document processing apparatus, printing cannot be aborted without a user input operation. Therefore, when the user is not near the receiving document processing apparatus or the user does not notice the notification, there is a problem that printing is not aborted even if an error occurs.

[0005] Also, when printing cancellation is not instructed, after the error is resolved, the printing process is executed according to the received document data. Therefore, if the person who should receive the printed material leaves before the error is resolved, the printed material may be taken away by another person, and there is a problem regarding security.

[0006] Therefore, the main object of the present invention is to provide a novel image forming apparatus, control program, and control method.

[0007] Another object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus, control program, and control method that can improve the safety when performing printing based on print data transmitted from an external terminal.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] The present invention includes a first invention related to an image forming apparatus and a second invention related to a control method of the image forming apparatus.

[0009] The first invention related to the image forming apparatus enables setting of an automatic deletion function. The automatic deletion function is a function that automatically deletes print job data from the print job table when the print job is stopped during the execution of the print job based on the print job data registered in the print job table. In addition, the first invention includes a human detection sensor for detecting a person. Furthermore, in a state where the automatic deletion function is set, when the print job is stopped during the execution of the print job and no person is detected by the human detection sensor, the print job data corresponding to the print job is deleted from the print job table.

[0010] Note that in a state where the automatic deletion function is not set, when the print job is stopped during the execution of the print job and a predetermined time has elapsed since the print job was stopped, the print job is restarted.

[0011] Also, when the print job is restarted, the user may be notified that the print job has been restarted.

[0012] Furthermore, when the print job is completed, the print job data corresponding to the print job may be deleted from the print job table.

[0013] In the first invention, a storage means for storing print data may be further provided. In the configuration in which this storage means is provided, according to a predetermined user operation, print data may be read from the storage means, and print job data based on the read print data may be registered in the print job table.

[0014] In addition, in the first invention, a display means may be further provided. In the configuration in which this display means is provided, a screen including a thumbnail image based on the print data stored in the aforementioned storage means and accepting the aforementioned predetermined user operation may be displayed on the display means.

[0015] Also, when the screen referred to here is displayed on the display means, the user may be allowed to input a character string, and when the input character string matches a predetermined character string, the screen may be configured to be displayed on the display means.

[0016] The second invention related to a control method of an image forming apparatus assumes that the image forming apparatus can set an automatic deletion function. The automatic deletion function is a function of automatically deleting print job data from the print job table when the print job is stopped during the execution of the print job based on the print job data registered in the print job table. In addition, the second invention assumes that the image forming apparatus includes a human detection sensor for detecting a person. On this basis, in the second invention, when the print job is stopped during the execution of the print job in a state where the automatic deletion function is set and no person is detected by the human detection sensor, the print job data corresponding to the print job is deleted from the print job table.

Advantages of the Invention

[0017] According to this invention, it is possible to improve the safety when performing printing based on print data transmitted from an external terminal.

[0018] The above objects, other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the embodiments with reference to the drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0019]

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Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0020] [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of an image forming apparatus 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1, in the first embodiment, the image forming apparatus 10 is a multifunction peripheral (MFP) having functions such as a copying function, a printer function, a scanner function, a facsimile (FAX) function, and an Internet FAX (I-FAX) function. Note that the present invention is applicable not only to multifunction peripherals but also to other image forming apparatuses capable of performing printing based on print data transmitted from an external terminal, such as a printing apparatus (printer) and a facsimile.

[0021] In this specification, the front-rear direction (depth direction) of the image forming apparatus 10 and its constituent members is defined with the surface facing the user's standing position, that is, the surface on which the operation panel 26 described later is provided, as the front (front side), and the left-right direction (lateral direction) of the image forming apparatus 10 and its constituent members is defined based on the state of viewing the image forming apparatus 10 from the user.

[0022] The image forming apparatus 10 includes an apparatus main body 36 including an image reading unit 30, an image forming unit 32, a paper feeding device 38, and a paper discharge tray 40.

[0023] The image reading unit 30 includes a document placement table formed of a transparent material and is built in the apparatus main body 36. Above the document placement table, a document pressing cover 30a is attached via a hinge or the like so as to be openable and closable. A document placement tray 34 is provided on the document pressing cover 30a. Further, the document pressing cover 30a is provided with an ADF (automatic document feeder) for automatically feeding the document placed on the document placement tray 34.

[0024] In addition, the image reading unit 30 includes a light source, a plurality of mirrors, an imaging lens, a line sensor, and the like. This image reading unit 30 exposes the surface of the document with the light source, and guides the reflected light reflected from the surface of the document to the imaging lens by a plurality of mirrors. Then, the imaging lens forms the reflected light on the light receiving elements of the line sensor. In the line sensor, the luminance or chromaticity of the reflected light formed on the light receiving elements is detected, and read image data based on the image on the surface of the document is generated. As the line sensor, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CIS (Contact Image Sensor) or the like is used.

[0025] The image forming unit 32 is built in the apparatus main body 36 and provided below the image reading unit 30. This image forming unit 32 includes a photosensitive drum, a charging device, an exposure device, a developing device, a transfer device, a fixing device, and the like. The image forming unit 32 forms an image on a recording medium (paper) conveyed from a paper feeding device 38 or the like by an electrophotographic method, and discharges the paper on which the image has been formed to a paper discharge tray 40. However, as the print image data for forming an image on the paper, in addition to the image data read by the image reading unit 30, print data transmitted from an external computer (external terminal) or the like is used. Note that the print data includes image data and document data. The external computer includes a desktop PC, a notebook (laptop) PC, a tablet PC, a smartphone, other multifunction printers, and other facsimiles. Further, the recording medium is not limited to paper, and sheets other than paper such as OHP films are also used.

[0026] Although detailed description is omitted, the image forming unit 32 has a color printing function, and for each color of Y (yellow), M (magenta), C (cyan), and K (black), an image forming station including a photosensitive drum, a charger, a developer, a transfer roller, and a cleaning device is configured. For example, the image forming apparatus 10 is a tandem type image forming apparatus, and in the image forming unit 32, the image forming stations for each color are arranged in a row.

[0027] The paper output tray 40 is provided between the image reading unit 30 and the image forming unit 32. The bottom surface of the paper output tray 40 is partitioned by the image forming unit 32. Also, the top surface of the paper output tray 40 is partitioned by the image reading unit 30. Further, the left side surface (the left side surface when viewed from the front) of the paper output tray 40 is defined by the right side surface of the connecting housing 42. That is, the front side, the back side, and the left side surface side of the paper output tray 40 are open. The bottom surface of the paper output tray 40 has an inclined surface that slopes downward toward the connecting housing 42 side.

[0028] Also, an operation panel 26 is provided on the front side of the image reading unit 30. The operation panel 26 includes a display 22 with a touch panel 20 and a plurality of operation buttons 26a.

[0029] On the display 22 with the touch panel 20, software keys, messages, etc. for receiving various settings or print instructions from the user are displayed. On the display 22, various operation screens such as a home screen 100 (see FIG. 3), which is a screen for selecting a desired job from various jobs executable by the image forming apparatus 10, are displayed. However, in this first embodiment, a job means copying (including scanning of a document), printing (printing), and fax transmission, etc.

[0030] The operation buttons 26a are hardware keys and include, for example, a home key, a power saving key, and a main power key. The home key is a key for displaying the home screen on the display 22. The power saving key is a key for switching between a power saving state (power saving mode) in which power consumption is restricted and a normal state (normal mode) in which power consumption is not restricted. However, the operation buttons 26a may be software keys. In this case, the operation buttons 26a are displayed on the display 22 with the touch panel 20.

[0031] Note that a software key refers to a key (icon) that is reproduced software-wise on the display surface of a display 22 with a touch panel 20, for example. In contrast, a hardware key refers to a key (button) provided as a physical device. Also, the operation input on the operation panel 26 means an operation input to each part of the operation panel 26, such as an operation input on a software key (for example, a touch input to the touch panel 20) and an operation input on a hardware key (a button operation of the operation button 26a).

[0032] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the image forming apparatus 10 shown in FIG. 1. Referring to FIG. 2, the image forming apparatus 10 includes a CPU 12. To the CPU 12, a RAM 14, a touch panel control circuit 16, a display control circuit 18, an operation button detection circuit 24, an HDD 28, an image reading unit 30, an image forming unit 32, a FAX communication unit 62, and a communication circuit 64 are connected via a bus 60. Also, a touch panel 20 is connected to the touch panel control circuit 16, a display 22 is connected to the display control circuit 18, and an operation button 26a is connected to the operation button detection circuit 24.

[0033] The CPU 12 controls the overall operation of the image forming apparatus 10. The RAM 14 is used as a work area and a buffer area for the CPU 12.

[0034] The HDD 28 is the main storage device of the image forming apparatus 10 and appropriately stores a control program for the CPU 12 to control the operations of the respective parts of the image forming apparatus 10 and various data, etc. However, instead of or together with the HDD 28, other non-volatile memories such as an SSD, a flash memory, and an EEPROM may be used.

[0035] The touch panel control circuit 16 applies a necessary voltage to the touch panel 20 and detects a touch operation (touch input) within the touch effective range of the touch panel 20, and outputs touch coordinate data indicating the position of the touch input to the CPU 12.

[0036] The touch panel 20 is a general-purpose touch panel, and any type such as a capacitance type, electromagnetic induction type, resistive film type, or infrared type can be used. In this first embodiment, a capacitance type touch panel is used as the touch panel 20, and the touch panel 20 is provided on the display surface of the display 22. However, a touch panel display in which the touch panel 20 and the display 22 are integrally formed may also be used.

[0037] The display control circuit 18 includes a GPU and a VRAM, etc. Under the instruction of the CPU 12, the GPU generates display image data for displaying various screens on the display 22 using the image generation data 74b (see FIG. 7) stored in the RAM 14 in the VRAM, and outputs the generated display image data to the display 22. As the display 22, for example, an LCD or an EL (Electro-Luminescence) display can be used.

[0038] The operation button detection circuit 24 outputs an operation signal or operation data corresponding to the operation of the operation button 26a described above to the CPU 12.

[0039] The FAX communication unit 62 includes a facsimile modem (FAX modem) and a network control unit (NCU), and is connected to a public communication line such as a PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Networks) via a telephone line, a line switch, etc. The FAX modem modulates the encoded transmission image data into an analog signal in a format suitable for transmission on the public switched telephone network based on the facsimile communication (FAX communication) standard, and demodulates the analog signal from another FAX device to obtain received image data. The network control unit performs line control for closing and opening the public switched telephone network, and connects the FAX modem to the public switched telephone network. Also, the network control unit transmits and receives image data, control signals, etc. according to a predetermined FAX communication protocol, and performs automatic call origination processing and automatic call reception processing for FAX communication.

[0040] The communication circuit 64 is a communication circuit for connecting to a network such as the Internet. This communication circuit 64 is a wired communication circuit or a wireless communication circuit, and communicates with an external computer via the network according to an instruction from the CPU 12. Further, the communication circuit 64 is also a communication circuit for performing transmission and reception of I-FAX via the network and the like.

[0041] Note that the electrical configuration of the image forming apparatus 10 shown in FIG. 2 is merely an example, and it is not necessary to be limited thereto. For example, the image forming apparatus 10 is provided with a jam sensor for detecting paper jams in the image forming unit 32 and a paper sensor for detecting the remaining amount of paper in the paper feeding apparatus 38. Further, the image forming apparatus 10 may be provided with a speaker for outputting sound or voice (synthesized voice).

[0042] In an image forming apparatus having such a configuration, when an error occurs during execution of a print job based on print data (hereinafter referred to as "received print data") transmitted from an external computer (external terminal), a message indicating that an error has occurred is notified to the user via the display. When the user instructs to cancel the print, the print is cancelled, and the received print data may be saved as a file.

[0043] However, in a conventional image forming apparatus, since a print job cannot be cancelled without a user input instruction, there is a problem that the print job is not cancelled when the user is not near the image forming apparatus or when the user does not notice the notification. Further, when cancellation of the print job is not instructed, after the error is resolved, the print job based on the received print data is executed (resumed). Therefore, if the person who should receive the printed matter leaves before the error is resolved, the printed matter may be taken away by another person, which poses a problem regarding security.

[0044] Therefore, in the image forming apparatus 10 of this first embodiment, when a failure occurs during the execution of a print job, among the print jobs based on the received print data transmitted from an external terminal, the data of the print job that emphasizes safety (security) is automatically deleted.

[0045] Hereinafter, an operation example of the image forming apparatus 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 6 and the like. FIG. 3 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of the home screen 100. FIG. 4 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of the home screen 100 including the confirmation window 104. FIG. 5 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of the selection screen 120. FIG. 6 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of the home screen 100 including the notification window 106.

[0046] As described above, the image forming apparatus 10 is a multifunction machine having various functions and can execute copy jobs, print jobs, scan jobs, FAX jobs, I-FAX jobs, and the like. When the power of the image forming apparatus 10 is turned on and it is in a standby state where each function can be executed, the home screen 100 as shown in FIG. 3 is displayed on the display 22 of the image forming apparatus 10. On this home screen 100, images of job selection keys (icons) 102 for selecting each job such as copy, print, FAX (including normal FAX and I-FAX), and scan and displaying an operation screen (setting screen) for each job are displayed.

[0047] For example, the user can operate (touch) the job selection key 102 to instruct the execution of a desired job. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 10 executes each job according to the user's instruction. Further, when the image forming apparatus 10 receives received print data transmitted from an external computer such as data for a print job, data for a FAX job, or data for an I-FAX job, it executes a print job (print job, FAX job, and I-FAX job) based on the received print data.

[0048] However, as will be described in detail later, in the data storage area 74 of the RAM 14, a print job table used for a so-called print queue function that stores print jobs and controls printing in a predetermined order is stored. The data of the print job (print job data) executed by the image forming apparatus 10 is registered in the print job table (stored in the print queue). Although illustration is omitted, the print job table describes identification information (ID) for identifying a print job, the priority of the print job, and the like. In principle, the priority of the print job is set in the order in which it is registered in the print job table. Further, when the print job is completed, the print job data corresponding to the completed print job is deleted (erased) from the print job table.

[0049] Also, in the image forming apparatus 10 of the first embodiment, when executing a print job based on received print data transmitted from an external terminal, instead of immediately executing the print job (registering it in the print job table) immediately after acquiring the received print data, it has a retention function (holding function) that allows the print job to be executable (registerable in the print job table) only when the user confirms. When the holding function is thus effective, since the user's confirmation is required for executing the print job, it is considered that a state in which security is emphasized. Although illustration is omitted, the effective / ineffective state of the holding function can be switched by a predetermined key operation. The key (holding function switching key) for switching the effective / ineffective state of the holding function may be a hardware key or a software key.

[0050] Then, in the image forming apparatus 10, when received print data is acquired (received) in a state where the holding function is ineffective, the print job data (normal print job data) based on the received print data (normal received print data) is automatically registered in the print job table. However, information indicating that it is normal print job data, that is, it does not have the holding function, is associated with the normal print job data.

[0051] On the other hand, in the image forming apparatus 10, when received print data is received in a state where the holding function is valid, that is, in a state where importance is attached to security, the received print data is treated as received print data with a holding function (corresponding to print data with a holding function). The received print data with a holding function is once stored in the HDD 28 after reception. Also, print job data (print job data with a holding function) based on the received print data with a holding function is not automatically registered in the print job table.

[0052] Thereafter, when a predetermined user operation (print instruction) is given, the received print data with a holding function is read from the HDD 28, and print job data with a holding function based on the received print data with a holding function is registered in the print job table. However, information indicating that it is print job data with a holding function, that is, with a holding function, is associated with the print job data with a holding function.

[0053] In the image forming apparatus 10 of the first embodiment, when the received print data with a holding function is stored in the HDD 28, a home screen 100 including a confirmation window 104 as shown in FIG. 4 is displayed on the display 22. The confirmation window 104 is a window that is displayed when the display of the display 22 transitions from an operation screen other than the home screen 100 to the home screen 100, and is displayed at the center of the display area of the display 22 overlaid on the front of the home screen 100. That is, the confirmation window 104 is displayed as a pop-up.

[0054] The confirmation window 104 is a screen (window) for performing a print instruction regarding the received print data with a holding function stored in the HDD 28 and a print job (print job with a holding function) based on the received print data with a holding function. A message prompting the user to confirm the received print data with a holding function (for example, a message such as "There is received print data. Do you want to confirm the print data?") is displayed on the confirmation window 104. Further, a "Yes" button 104a for displaying a list of the received print data with a holding function and a "No" button 104b for not displaying a list of the received print data with a holding function are displayed on the confirmation window 104.

[0055] Note that the confirmation window 104 is configured such that operations other than touching the "Yes" button 104a or the "No" button 104b cannot be performed, and other operations are disabled.

[0056] When the "No" button 104b is selected, the confirmation window 104 is hidden and the home screen 100 is returned to. On the other hand, when the "Yes" button 104a is selected, a selection screen 120 as shown in FIG. 5 is displayed on the display 22. This selection screen 120 includes a list display section 122 and a plurality of instruction icons 126.

[0057] In the list display section 122, selection icons 124 corresponding to the received print data with a holding function stored in the HDD 28 are displayed in a list. The selection icon 124 displays a thumbnail image based on an image (print image) included in the received print data with a holding function, a character string indicating information related to the print image, a figure, and the like. When the received print data with a holding function includes a plurality of images (pages), a thumbnail image based on the image of the first page (the first sheet) is displayed on the selection icon 124. In the example shown in FIG. 5, a selection icon 124a corresponding to the first received print data with a holding function and a selection icon 124b corresponding to the second received print data with a holding function are displayed in the list display section 122.

[0058] On the selection screen 120, when the selection icon 124 is touched by the user, the touched selection icon 124 is in a selected state, that is, the received print data with the holding function corresponding to the selection icon 124 is in a selected state. As shown in FIG. 5, when the selection icon 124 is touched, its display mode changes. For example, a check mark, a pattern, or an appropriate color is displayed on the touched selection icon 124 (for example, selection icon 124b). In this way, the user can recognize the icon they have selected.

[0059] In the example shown in FIG. 5, as a plurality of instruction icons 126, a print icon 126a, a delete icon 126b, and a return icon 126c are displayed.

[0060] The print icon 126a is assigned a function to execute (give a print instruction) a print job with a holding function based on the received print data with the holding function selected. Therefore, when the print icon 126a is touched in a state where the selection icon 124 displayed in the list display section 122 is selected, print job data with a holding function based on the received print data with the holding function corresponding to the selection icon 124 is registered in the print job table. Although not shown in the figure, the display mode of the selection icon 124 corresponding to the received print data with the holding function corresponding to the print job data with the holding function registered in the print job table may be changed so that it can be understood that it has been registered in the print job table. When the print job with the holding function ends, the print job data with the holding function corresponding to the print job with the holding function is deleted from the print job table, the received print data with the holding function corresponding to the print job data with the holding function is deleted from the HDD 28, and the selection icon 124 corresponding to the received print data with the holding function is deleted (no longer displayed).

[0061] The delete icon 126b is assigned a function to delete the received print data with the selected holding function. When the delete icon 126b is touched, the received print data with the holding function corresponding to the selected selection icon 124 is deleted from the HDD 28, and the selection icon 124 corresponding to the received print data with the holding function is also deleted.

[0062] The return icon 126c is assigned a function to close the selection screen 120 and return to the home screen 100. For example, when the return icon 126c is touched on the selection screen 120, the home screen 100 is displayed on the display 22.

[0063] Also, in the image forming apparatus 10 of the first embodiment, a predetermined error (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "first type of error") that is not suitable for the execution of a print job may occur. When such a first type of error occurs, if a print job is being executed, the print job is stopped (interrupted). At this time, among the print job data registered in the print job table, the print job data with the holding function is automatically deleted. However, print job data other than the print job data with the holding function, that is, normal print job data or print job data based on image data read by the image reading unit 30, etc. is not deleted.

[0064] Therefore, when print job data with a holding function and print job data other than the print job data with a holding function are registered in the print job table, the priority of the print job data other than the print job data with a holding function is raised.

[0065] Also, even if a first type of error occurs during the execution of a print job with a holding function, the print job data with the holding function is deleted. Therefore, if a first type of error occurs during the execution of a print job with a holding function, the print job with the holding function will be aborted midway. On the other hand, when a first type of error occurs during the execution of a print job (normal print job) based on normal print job data, the normal print job is temporarily interrupted but resumed when the first type of error is resolved.

[0066] In the image forming apparatus 10 of the first embodiment, when the print job data with the holding function is deleted, a home screen 100 including a notification window 106 as shown in FIG. 6 is displayed on the display 22. The notification window 106 is a window that is displayed when the display of the display 22 transitions from an operation screen other than the home screen 100 to the home screen 100, and is displayed at the center of the display area of the display 22, overlapping the front of the home screen 100.

[0067] The notification window 106 is a screen (window) for notifying the user that the print job data with the holding function has been deleted. A message indicating that the print job data with the holding function has been deleted (for example, a message such as "The print job has been deleted because an error occurred during printing.") is displayed in the notification window 106. Also, an "OK" button 106a for closing the notification window 106 is displayed in the notification window 106. Note that the notification window 106 is configured such that no operation other than touching the "OK" button 106a is possible, and no other operations are possible.

[0068] When the "OK" button 106a is selected, the notification window 106 is hidden, and the home screen 100 including the confirmation window 104 as shown in FIG. 4 is displayed on the display 22. Here, since the received print data with the holding function that was the source of the print job data with the holding function that has been deleted has not been deleted from the HDD 28, the user can specify the received print data with the holding function and issue a print instruction again.

[0069] The above-described operation of the image forming apparatus 10 is realized by the CPU 12 executing a control program stored in the RAM 14. Specific processing will be described later with reference to a flowchart.

[0070] FIG. 7 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of the memory map 70 of the RAM 14 shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 7, the RAM 14 includes a program storage area 72 and a data storage area 74. As described above, the control program is stored in the program storage area 72 of the RAM 14. The control program includes a display program 72a, an operation detection program 72b, a communication program 72c, a reception program 72d, a switching program 72e, a storage program 72f, a registration program 72g, an error detection program 72h, a deletion program 72i, an image forming program 72j, and an image reading program 72k.

[0071] The display program 72a is a program for displaying various screens such as the home screen 100 or the selection screen 120 on the display 22 using the image generation data 74b described later.

[0072] The operation detection program 72b is a program for detecting operations on each part of the image forming apparatus 10. For example, the operation detection program 72b is a program for acquiring touch coordinate data output from the touch panel 20 and detecting that a software key included in various screens displayed on the display 22 has been operated. The operation detection program 72b is also a program for detecting an operation input from the operation button 26a.

[0073] The communication program 72c is a program for communicating with an external computer via a network.

[0074] The reception program 72d is a program for receiving received print data transmitted from an external computer. However, when receiving, the communication program 72c is executed.

[0075] The switching program 72e is a program for turning on / off the invalid flag 74e in response to an operation of a holding function switching key for switching the validity / invalidity of the holding function. That is, the switching program 72e is a program for switching the validity / invalidity of the holding function.

[0076] The storage program 72f is a program for storing received print data with a holding function received in a state where the holding function is valid in the HDD 28.

[0077] The registration program 72g is a program for registering print job data with a holding function based on received print data with a holding function in a print job table when a print instruction for a print job based on received print data with a holding function is received.

[0078] The error detection program 72h is a program for determining whether a first type of error such as paper jam, toner exhaustion, or paper out has occurred according to the outputs of a jam sensor, a paper sensor, etc.

[0079] The deletion program 72i is a program for deleting print job data with a holding function among the print job data registered in the print job table when it is determined that a first type of error has occurred. Further, the deletion program 72i is also a program for deleting the print job data corresponding to the completed print job from the print job table. Furthermore, the deletion program 72i is also a program for deleting the received print data with a holding function corresponding to the print job with a holding function from the HDD 28 when the print job with a holding function ends.

[0080] The image forming program 72j is a program for controlling the image forming unit 32 to print a multicolor or single-color image on a sheet. Further, the image forming program 72j is also a program for stopping the print job when it is determined that a first type of error has occurred and starting (resuming) the print job when it is determined that the first type of error has been resolved.

[0081] The image reading program 72k is a program for controlling the image reading unit 30 to read an image of a document and output an image signal (image data) corresponding to the read image.

[0082] Although illustration is omitted, the program storage area 72 also stores programs for selecting and executing various functions provided in the image forming apparatus 10.

[0083] In the data storage area 74 of the RAM 14, operation input data 74a, image generation data 74b, table data 74c, print job data 74d, invalid flags 74e, etc. are stored.

[0084] The operation input data 74a is, for example, touch coordinate data and / or operation data detected (acquired) according to the operation detection program 72b. The detected touch coordinate data and / or operation data are stored in time series.

[0085] The image generation data 74b is data such as polygon data or texture data for generating display image data corresponding to various screens such as the home screen 100 or the selection screen 120 to be displayed on the display 22. Further, the image generation data 74b includes, for example, image data of software keys and the like.

[0086] The table data 74c is data such as the above-described print job table. The print job data 74d is data of a print job registered in the print job table, and for each print job, it includes a print image for forming an image on a sheet, information about various settings at the time of printing, and information about whether it has a holding function. The invalid flag 74e is a flag for determining whether the holding function is invalid. When the invalid flag 74e is on, the holding function is invalidated, and when the invalid flag 74e is off, the holding function is enabled.

[0087] Although not shown in the figure, other data necessary for the execution of the control program is stored in the data storage area 74, or a timer (counter) and registers necessary for the execution of the control program are provided.

[0088] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the data reception process of the CPU 12 shown in FIG. 2. This data reception process starts when the power of the image forming apparatus 10 is turned on.

[0089] As shown in FIG. 8, when starting the data reception process, the CPU 12 determines in step S1 whether it has received the received print data transmitted from an external computer. If it is "NO" in step S1, that is, if it is determined that the received print data has not been received, it returns to the same step S1 as it is. On the other hand, if it is "YES" in step S1, that is, if it is determined that the received print data has been received, in step S3, it is determined whether the holding function is enabled. Here, the CPU 12 determines whether the invalid flag 74e is off.

[0090] If the answer is "YES" in step S3, that is, if the invalid flag 74e is off and the holding function is valid, then in step S5, the received print data is stored in the HDD 28 as received print data with a holding function, and the process returns to step S1. On the other hand, if the answer is "NO" in step S3, that is, if the invalid flag 74e is on and the holding function is invalid, then in step S7, the print job data based on the received print data is registered in the print job table as normal print job data, and the process returns to step S1.

[0091] Next, the job registration process executed by the CPU 12 of the image forming apparatus 10 will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the job registration process of the CPU 12 shown in FIG. 2. This job registration process is started when the transition is made from an operation screen other than the home screen 100 to the home screen 100 in a state where the received print data with a holding function is stored in the HDD 28, and is executed in parallel with the above-described data reception process.

[0092] As shown in FIG. 9, when starting the job registration process, the CPU 12 determines in step S31 whether there is print job data with a holding function that was deleted before the end of the job (deleted in step S71 described later). If the answer is "YES" in step S31, that is, if it is determined that there is print job data with a holding function that was deleted before the end of the job, then in step S33, the notification window 106 is displayed over the front surface of the home screen 100, and the process proceeds to step S35. On the other hand, if the answer is "NO" in step S31, that is, if it is determined that there is no print job data with a holding function that was deleted before the end of the job, then in step S35, the confirmation window 104 is displayed over the front surface of the home screen 100, and in step S37, it is determined whether to check the content of the received print data with a holding function. Here, the CPU 12 determines whether the "Yes" button 104a included in the confirmation window 104 has been touched.

[0093] If the answer in step S37 is "NO", that is, if the "NO" button 104b is touched and it is determined not to check the content of the received print data with the holding function, the job registration process ends. When the job registration process ends, the normal home screen 100 (see FIG. 3) where the confirmation window 104 is not displayed is displayed on the display 22.

[0094] On the other hand, if the answer in step S37 is "YES", that is, if it is determined to check the content of the received print data with the holding function, in step S39, the selection screen 120 is displayed on the display 22, and in step S41, it is determined whether to execute the print job with the holding function based on the received print data with the holding function. Here, the CPU 12 determines whether the print icon 126a is touched in a state where the selection icon 124 displayed in the list display section 122 is selected.

[0095] If the answer in step S41 is "YES", that is, if it is determined to execute the print job with the holding function, the print job data based on the received print data with the holding function specified by the user is registered in the print job table as the print job data with the holding function, and the process returns to step S39. On the other hand, if the answer in step S41 is "NO", in step S45, it is determined whether to delete the received print data with the holding function. Here, the CPU 12 determines whether the delete icon 126b is touched in a state where the selection icon 124 displayed in the list display section 122 is selected.

[0096] If the answer in step S45 is "YES", that is, if it is determined to delete the received print data with the holding function, in step S47, the received print data with the holding function selected by the user is deleted, and the process returns to step S39. On the other hand, if the answer in step S45 is "NO", in step S49, it is determined whether to return to the home screen 100. Here, the CPU 12 determines whether the return icon 126c is touched.

[0097] If the result in step S49 is "NO", that is, if it is determined that the home screen 100 is not returned to, the process returns to step S39. On the other hand, if the result in step S49 is "YES", that is, if it is determined that the home screen 100 is returned to, the job registration process is terminated and the process returns to the home screen 100.

[0098] Next, the printing process executed by the CPU 12 of the image forming apparatus 10 will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the printing process of the CPU 12 shown in FIG. 2. This printing process starts when the power of the image forming apparatus 10 is turned on, and is executed in parallel with the above-described data reception process and job registration process.

[0099] As shown in FIG. 10, when starting the printing process, the CPU 12 determines in step S51 whether print job data is registered in the print job table. If the result in step S51 is "NO", that is, if it is determined that print job data is not registered in the print job table, the process returns to the same step S51. On the other hand, if the result in step S51 is "YES", that is, if it is determined that print job data is registered in the print job table, in step S53, the print job is started according to the print job data with the highest priority, and in step S55, it is determined whether a first type of error has occurred.

[0100] If the result in step S55 is "NO", that is, if it is determined that a first type of error has not occurred, in step S57, it is determined whether the print job started in step S53 has ended. If the result in step S57 is "NO", that is, if it is determined that the print job has not ended, the process returns to step S55. On the other hand, if the result in step S57 is "YES", that is, if it is determined that the print job has ended, in step S59, it is determined whether the ended print job is a print job with a holding function. Here, the CPU 12 determines whether information indicating that the print job data of the ended print job is print job data with a holding function is associated therewith.

[0101] If the result in step S59 is "NO", that is, if it is determined that the completed print job is a normal print job, the process proceeds to step S63. On the other hand, if the result in step S59 is "YES", that is, if it is determined that the completed print job is a print job with a holding function, the received print data with the holding function corresponding to the completed print job with the holding function is deleted from the HDD 28, and the process proceeds to step S63. In step S63, the print job data corresponding to the completed print job is deleted from the print job table, and the process returns to step S51.

[0102] Also, if the result in step S55 is "YES", that is, if it is determined that a type 1 error has occurred, in step S65, the print job is stopped (interrupted), and in step S67, it is determined whether the type 1 error has been resolved. Here, the CPU 12 determines whether the print job can be executed according to the outputs of various sensors. If the result in step S67 is "YES", that is, if it is determined that the type 1 error has been resolved, the process returns to step S53 and the print job is started (resumed).

[0103] On the other hand, if the result in step S67 is "NO", that is, if it is determined that the type 1 error has not been resolved, in step S69, it is determined whether there is a print job with a holding function. Here, it is determined whether the print job data with the holding function is registered in the print job table. If the result in step S69 is "NO", that is, if it is determined that there is no print job with a holding function, the process returns to step S67. On the other hand, if the result in step S69 is "YES", that is, if it is determined that there is a print job with a holding function, in step S71, the print job data with the holding function is deleted, and the process returns to step S67.

[0104] According to this first embodiment, when an error occurs during the execution of a print job, among the print jobs based on the received print data transmitted from an external terminal, the print job data with a holding function received in a state where safety is emphasized is automatically deleted. Therefore, the safety when performing printing based on the print data transmitted from the external terminal can be improved.

[0105] Also, according to the first embodiment, even when the print job data with a holding function is deleted, until the print job ends normally, the received print data with a holding function corresponding to the print job data with a holding function is stored in the HDD 28. Therefore, the user can re-specify the received print data with a holding function and issue a print instruction. Thus, in addition to safety, convenience can be improved.

[0106] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, since the confirmation window 104 including the thumbnail image based on the image (print image) included in the received print data with a holding function and the information related to the print image is displayed on the display 22, it is easy for the user to check the content of the received print data with a holding function.

[0107] [Second Embodiment] The image forming apparatus 10 of the second embodiment is the same as the first embodiment except that it performs authentication processing of the user who attempts to use the image forming apparatus 10 and permits a print instruction only for a print job with a holding function for a pre-registered user. Therefore, the content different from the first embodiment will be described, and duplicate descriptions will be omitted.

[0108] FIG. 11 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of a home screen 100 including an authentication window 108 in the second embodiment. In the image forming apparatus 10 of the second embodiment, when reception print data with a holding function is stored in the HDD 28, a home screen 100 including an authentication window 108 as shown in FIG. 11 is displayed on the display 22. The authentication window 108 is a window that is displayed when the "Yes" button 104a is selected in the confirmation window 104, and is displayed at the center of the display area of the display 22, overlapping the front surface of the home screen 100.

[0109] The authentication window 108 is a screen for a user who attempts to use the image forming apparatus 10 to input a password for determining whether the user is a pre-registered user (registered user). In the authentication window 108, a message prompting the user to input a password (for example, a message such as "Please input a password"), an input box 108a, an "OK" button 108b, and a "Cancel" button 108c are displayed.

[0110] The password (character string) input by operating the touch panel 20 or the operation button 26a is reflected in the input box 108a. However, instead of the input characters, " * " is displayed in the input box 108a. Thus, in this embodiment, the input characters themselves are not displayed. This is to prevent the password from being seen by a third party by displaying the input password as it is. However, since the number of " * " displayed increases according to the number of input characters, the user can recognize the number of characters (number of digits) of the password being input (input password).

[0111] A function to start the authentication process is assigned to the "OK" button 108b. When the "OK" button 108b is touched, it is determined whether the password (input password) input in the input box 108a matches the pre-registered password (registered password).

[0112] If the input password and the registered password match, the selection screen 120 as shown in FIG. 5 is displayed on the display 22. That is, it becomes possible to confirm the received print data with the holding function and give a print instruction for the print job with the holding function.

[0113] On the other hand, if the input password and the registered password do not match, the authentication window 108 is closed and the normal home screen 100 (see FIG. 3) where the confirmation window 104 is not displayed is displayed. Also, when the "Cancel" button 108c is touched, the authentication window 108 is closed and the normal home screen 100 is displayed. In these cases, the user cannot give a print instruction for the print job with the holding function. That is, a user other than the pre-registered user cannot give a print instruction for the print job with the holding function.

[0114] Also, in the second embodiment, in order to realize the operation as described above, the control program stored in the RAM 14 of the image forming apparatus 10 includes an authentication program (permission program) for determining whether the input password and the registered password match. Also, data about the registered password (registered password data) is stored in the data storage area 74 of the RAM 14. The above operation of the image forming apparatus 10 is realized by the CPU 12 executing a control program including the authentication program.

[0115] Hereinafter, the job registration process in the second embodiment will be described using a flowchart. For the same processes as those described in the first embodiment, the same reference numerals will be given, and redundant descriptions will be omitted or briefly described.

[0116] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a part of an example of job registration processing according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 12, when the CPU 12 starts the job registration processing, if it is “YES” in step S37, in step S91, the authentication window 108 is displayed overlapping the front surface of the home screen 100, and in step S93, it is determined whether the authentication is successful. Here, it is determined whether the input password entered in the input box 108a matches the registered password registered in advance. If it is “YES” in step S93, that is, if the authentication is successful, the process proceeds to step S39. On the other hand, if it is “NO” in step S93, that is, if the authentication fails, the job registration processing is terminated.

[0117] Note that the content of the processing up to step S37 and the processing after step S39 are the same as those in the first embodiment, so the description is omitted. Also, the content of the data reception processing and the printing processing are the same as those in the first embodiment, so the description is omitted.

[0118] According to this second embodiment, the authentication process of the user who tries to use the image forming apparatus 10 is performed, and the printing instruction for the print job with the holding function is permitted only for the pre-registered user, so that the security can be further improved.

[0119] [Third Embodiment] In the image forming apparatus 10 according to the third embodiment, except that the print job data with the holding function is automatically deleted when a predetermined time has elapsed after the occurrence of the first type of error, it is the same as the first embodiment. Therefore, the content different from the first embodiment will be described, and the overlapping description will be omitted.

[0120] In the image forming apparatus 10 of the third embodiment, when a first type of error occurs, the print job data with the holding function is deleted when a predetermined time (for example, 2 to 3 minutes) has elapsed since the occurrence of the first type of error. That is, the print job data with the holding function is not deleted until a predetermined time has elapsed since the occurrence of the first type of error. Therefore, if the first type of error is resolved before the predetermined time has elapsed since the occurrence of the first type of error, the print job is restarted with the print job data with the holding function registered in the print job table. The reason for this is that if the error is resolved within the predetermined time, it is highly likely that the user who executed the print instruction has taken measures, and it is considered that the user who executed the print instruction is near the image forming apparatus. From the viewpoint of safety, there is no need to delete the print job data with the holding function. Rather, not deleting the print job data eliminates the need to execute the print instruction again, which is more user-friendly.

[0121] Also, in the third embodiment, in order to realize the operation as described above, the control program stored in the RAM 14 of the image forming apparatus 10 includes a determination program for determining whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the occurrence of the first type of error. The above-described operation of the image forming apparatus 10 is realized by the CPU 12 executing a control program including an authentication program.

[0122] Hereinafter, the print process in the third embodiment will be described with reference to a flowchart. For the same processes as those described in the first embodiment, the same reference numerals will be used, and the description of the overlapping content will be omitted or briefly described.

[0123] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the printing process of the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 13, when the CPU 12 starts the printing process, if it is “NO” in step S67, in step S111, it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the occurrence of the first type of error. If it is “NO” in step S111, that is, if it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed since the occurrence of the first type of error, the process returns to step S67. On the other hand, if it is “YES” in step S111, that is, if it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed since the occurrence of the first type of error, the process proceeds to step S69.

[0124] Note that the contents of the processes up to step S67 and the processes after step S69 are the same as those of the first embodiment, so the description thereof is omitted. Also, the contents of the data reception process and the job registration process are the same as those of the first embodiment, so the description thereof is omitted.

[0125] According to this third embodiment, when a predetermined time has elapsed after the occurrence of the first type of error, the print job data with the holding function is automatically deleted, so that in addition to safety, convenience can be improved.

[0126] In the third embodiment, after the occurrence of the first type of error, when a predetermined time has elapsed, the print job data with the holding function is automatically deleted. However, when the user disappears from around (in front of) the image forming apparatus 10 before the first type of error is resolved, the print job data with the holding function may be automatically deleted. In this case, the image forming apparatus 10 includes a human detection sensor for detecting a person (user) existing in front of the image forming apparatus 10. As the human detection sensor, for example, a distance sensor, a pyroelectric sensor, a floor sensor (pressure sensor), or a digital camera (image sensor) can be used. For example, as the distance sensor, an infrared sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a laser distance sensor, or the like is used. The human detection sensor is connected to the CPU 12 via the bus 60. The CPU 12 determines whether a user exists in the area in front of the image forming apparatus 10 according to data such as distance data, temperature data, or image data output from the human detection sensor.

[0127] Also, the mode shown in the third embodiment can be adopted in combination with the second embodiment.

[0128] Note that the specific configurations and the like described in the above embodiments are examples, and can be appropriately changed according to the actual product. Also, the order of processing of each step in the flowcharts shown in the above embodiments can be appropriately changed as long as the same result is obtained.

[0129] In the above-described embodiment, when the printing job is completed, the printing job data corresponding to the printing job is automatically deleted from the printing job table. However, it is not necessary to be limited to this. Although illustration is omitted, when the printing job is completed, a selection window for allowing the user to select whether to delete the printing job data corresponding to the printing job is displayed on the display 22, and the user may be able to select whether to delete the printing job data. Further, when the state without the user's input operation continues for a predetermined time after the selection window is displayed, the selection window may be made non-displayed. When the selection window is made non-displayed, the printing job data may be automatically deleted, or the printing job data may not be deleted.

[0130] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, when a first type of error occurs during the execution of the printing job with the holding function, the printing job data with the holding function corresponding to the printing job is deleted. However, it is not necessary to be limited to this. When a first type of error occurs during the execution of the printing job with the holding function, the printing job data with the holding function may not be deleted, and the printing job may be temporarily interrupted and restarted when the first type of error is resolved. In this case, it is desirable to notify the user who executed the printing job with the holding function or the user who should receive the printed matter of the printing job with the holding function that the printing job with the holding function is restarted / has been restarted, or that there is a printed matter of the printing job with the holding function. For example, when the image forming apparatus 10 includes a speaker, it may be notified by sound or voice, or when the destination of the information terminal used by the user is registered in the image forming apparatus 10, it may be notified by e-mail.

[0131] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, when the list of received print data with the holding function is displayed, the thumbnail image based on the print image included in the received print data with the holding function is displayed. However, this thumbnail image may not be displayed. In this case, information about the transmission source of the received print data with the holding function or information related to the print image, etc. is displayed in the list.

[0132] Also, it may be possible to switch the enable / disable of a function (automatic deletion function) that automatically deletes print job data when a first type of error occurs. For example, the enable / disable of the automatic deletion function can be switched by a predetermined key operation, and the key (automatic deletion function switching key) for switching the enable / disable of the automatic deletion function may be a hardware key or a software key. However, when the automatic deletion function is enabled, it is desirable that a message prompting to enable the holding function be displayed on the display 22 or output as voice.

Explanation of Signs

[0133] 10 … Image forming apparatus 12 … CPU 14 … RAM 28 … HDD 30 … Image reading unit 32 … Image forming unit 62 … FAX communication unit 64 … Communication circuit

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus capable of setting an automatic deletion function for automatically deleting print job data from a print job table when a print job based on print job data registered in the print job table is stopped during execution of the print job, the image forming apparatus comprising: A human detection sensor is provided to detect a human being, When the automatic deletion function is set, if a print job is stopped during execution of the print job and the person is no longer detected by the human detection sensor, the image forming device deletes the print job data corresponding to the print job from the print job table.

2. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the automatic deletion function is not set, if the print job is stopped during execution of the print job and a predetermined time has elapsed since the print job was stopped, the print job is resumed.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein when the print job is resumed, a user is notified that the print job is resumed.

4. 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the print job is completed, the print job data corresponding to the print job is deleted from the print job table.

5. Further comprising a storage means for storing the print data, 5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a storage unit that stores the print data in accordance with a predetermined user operation; and a print job table that stores the print data based on the print data.

6. Further comprising a display means, 6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the display unit displays a screen including a thumbnail image based on the print data stored in the storage unit and for accepting the user's operation.

7. 7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising: a step of prompting a user to input a character string; and causing said display means to display said screen when the input character string matches a predetermined character string.

8. A control method for an image forming apparatus capable of setting an automatic deletion function for automatically deleting print job data from a print job table when a print job based on print job data registered in the print job table is stopped during execution of the print job, comprising: the image forming apparatus includes a human detection sensor for detecting a human; A control method in which, when the automatic deletion function is set, if a print job is stopped during execution of the print job and the person is no longer detected by the human detection sensor, the print job data corresponding to the print job is deleted from the print job table.

Images