Information processing system, information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To provide an information processing system that re-schedules a task not carried out by a user.SOLUTION: An information processing system that includes a device and an information processing device which receives registration of a task relating to the device includes: schedule information storing means for storing schedule information in which the task is registered; present time obtaining means for obtaining a present time; and re-scheduling means for re-scheduling, when there is a task not carried out yet, the task that is not carried out yet on the basis of the present time obtained by the present time obtaining means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing system, an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] In devices such as image forming devices, motors, clutches, and other components are mechanically operated to print with color materials, and various maintenance tasks such as cleaning and part replacement may be required. For example, in the case of large image forming devices (such as commercial printers), various maintenance tasks are performed. Some maintenance tasks are performed manually by users or administrators on the image forming device via terminal devices or the like.

[0003] A system has been devised in which an administrator operates a web browser displayed on a PC (Personal Computer) to configure an image forming device (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The administrator can change the settings of the image forming device without directly operating it. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the conventional technology has a problem in that if a user does not perform a task according to the schedule, the user must manually reschedule the task, which may lead to the user forgetting to perform the task.

[0005] In view of the above-mentioned problems, an object of the present invention is to provide an information processing system that reschedules a task that a user has not performed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In view of the above problem, the present invention provides a method for registering a device and a task related to the device. and task executionand an information processing device that receives the above-mentioned information processing system, the information processing system comprising: a schedule information storage means that stores schedule information in which the tasks are registered; a current time acquisition means that acquires a current time; a rescheduling means that, if there is an unexecuted task that has not yet been executed based on the current time acquired by the current time acquisition means, rescheduling the unexecuted task; and an image display means that registers the fact that the rescheduled task has been rescheduled in the schedule information storage means, and displays the rescheduled task in a manner different from a task that has not been rescheduled. When it is determined that the date has changed based on the current time acquired by the current time acquisition means, the rescheduling means reschedules the unexecuted task that is to be executed before the date change to the earliest available free time among available times that are longer than the estimated required time of the unexecuted task, the task being work related to adjustment or maintenance of the device, and the image display means displays an execution button for executing an operation on the device for each of the tasks registered in the schedule information. death , Executing the task by pressing the execution button; It is characterized by: [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] It is possible to provide an information processing system that reschedules tasks that a user did not perform. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a task. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a task schedule displayed by the information processing system. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating task rescheduling. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration of an information processing system. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of the hardware configuration of a DFE. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a general configuration of an image forming apparatus. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a general-purpose function among the functions of the DFE. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a function related to rescheduling among the functions of a DFE. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of working time information stored in a working time storage means. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a work end time setting screen displayed on the terminal device. [Figure 11] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of task information stored in a task information storage means; [Figure 12] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of schedule information stored in a schedule information storage means. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure or operation of a DFE registering working hours information in response to an operation from a user. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure or operation of a DFE to reschedule unexecuted tasks in response to a change in the date. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure or operation of a DFE to reschedule unexecuted tasks as work hours end. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a method for rescheduling to the earliest available free time among free times that are longer than the estimated required time of an unexecuted task. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 illustrates a method for rescheduling to the earliest available free time without considering the order of the unexecuted tasks when there are a number of unexecuted tasks. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a method for rescheduling a task to the earliest available free time, taking into consideration the order of the unexecuted tasks, when there are multiple unexecuted tasks. [Figure 19]FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a method for rescheduling a plurality of unperformed tasks together at the beginning of the next day after the start of work when there are a plurality of unperformed tasks. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a method for rescheduling a plurality of unexecuted tasks together to a free time on the next day when there are multiple unexecuted tasks. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schedule setting screen. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schedule display screen. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] An information processing system and an information processing method performed by the information processing system will be described below as an example of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0010] <Summary> In this embodiment, the administrator can register various maintenance operations as "tasks" in the schedule. Tasks include maintenance for changing settings, and the administrator can register a task for changing the settings of the image forming apparatus from the screen for registering the task schedule.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a task. As described above, in this embodiment, an administrator registers tasks corresponding to various maintenance tasks in a DFE (Digital Front End) described later. Various maintenance tasks occur in an image forming apparatus, and the maintenance task shown in FIG. 1 is "Head Cap Cleaning." At an easily manageable granularity, one maintenance task is treated as one task 51. Therefore, one maintenance task that is manually performed by a user may be divided into multiple tasks.

[0012] Furthermore, the task 51 has one or more task components 52. The task components 52 are smaller maintenance tasks that are broken down to achieve the task. The task 51 called "Head Cap Cleaning" has the following task components 52. 1.Move to maintenance Md retreat position(30 seconds) 2.Remove the maintenance dome exterior cover(3 minutes) 3.Pull out the head array(2 minutes) 4.Clean the cap(30 seconds × 22 pieces) 5. Push back the head array 6.Remount the maintenance dome exterior cover(3 minutes) 7.Move to maintenance Md retreat position(30 seconds) 8.Cleaning competed A single task can contain any number of task parts, and the administrator registers such tasks in the schedule.

[0013] Fig. 2 shows an example of a task schedule displayed by the information processing system of this embodiment. In Fig. 2, the horizontal axis represents date 53 and the vertical axis represents time 54. An administrator can register a task like the one shown in Fig. 1 in the schedule by specifying the date and start time.

[0014] When an administrator executes a registered task, the DFE displays the task on the terminal device based on the current time. For example, the DFE displays the registered tasks according to a display format such as month, week, or day. The display format in Figure 2 is a weekly display. A general user who executes a task (an administrator may also execute a task) selects the task from the schedule and displays the task components that the task has. The task components display the screens required for maintenance corresponding to these task components (including screens for changing settings, etc.), so the general user does not need to select and display the screens required for maintenance.

[0015] However, there are cases where users do not carry out maintenance according to the schedule. In this case, unless the user manually re-registers the maintenance schedule, there is a risk that the maintenance will be forgotten.

[0016] Therefore, as shown in FIG. 3, the information processing system of this embodiment reschedules any unexecuted tasks that have not yet been performed based on the current time. For example, when the date changes or working hours end, the information processing system automatically reschedules the unexecuted tasks into free time. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating task rescheduling. In FIG. 3(a), three tasks 701 to 703 are registered on July 3, but the date changes or working hours end without the third task 703 being performed. Therefore, the information processing system reschedules the unexecuted tasks. As shown in FIG. 3(b), the information processing system determines free time 704 in which the unexecuted tasks can be performed based on the estimated required time of task 703, and reschedules the unexecuted tasks into this free time 704.

[0017] In this way, the information processing system of this embodiment can prevent users from forgetting to perform maintenance by automatically rescheduling unperformed tasks to the nearest available time when the date changes or working hours end.

[0018] <Terminology> Maintenance is the upkeep, management, and upkeep of machines and structures, or the work required for them.

[0019] A task means a task or work. In this embodiment, various adjustments and maintenance operations registered in the information processing device are called tasks.

[0020] A schedule means a "plan" or "date," and schedule information refers to information in which a schedule is set according to date and time. Schedule information is usually registered in association with a date and time on a calendar.

[0021] "Not implemented" means that it has not yet been implemented. The timing of determining whether something has been implemented or not can be arbitrary.

[0022] Rescheduling refers to partially correcting the results of scheduling that has already been performed.

[0023] <System configuration example> Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the system configuration of an information processing system 100 according to this embodiment. The information processing system 100 includes a terminal device 101 shown in Fig. 4(a), a DFE 102 shown in Fig. 4(b), and an image forming device 103 shown in Fig. 4(c). The server device 104 will be described later.

[0024] The terminal device 101 and the DFE 102 can communicate with each other via a network N. The network includes, for example, a LAN within the facility where the image forming device 103 is located, and also includes the Internet if the DFE 102 is located on the Internet. The DFE 102 and the image forming device 103 may be connected one-to-one via a dedicated line, or may be connected via a network. Furthermore, the DFE 102 and the image forming device 103 may be integrated or detachable.

[0025] A web browser is running on the terminal device 101. The web browser accesses a server included in the DFE 102 and displays input operation screens for task creation, schedule registration, and task execution. The terminal device 101 accepts operations such as task creation, schedule registration, and task execution on the input screen from the administrator and requests these from the DFE 102.

[0026] To log in to the DFE 102, the administrator inputs a user ID and password into the terminal device 101. The terminal device 101 transmits the user ID and password to the DFE 102, and if authentication by the DFE 102 is successful, the administrator is identified as either a general user or an administrator. The screen displayed and the items that can be entered may differ depending on whether the user is a general user or an administrator. The authentication of the administrator may be performed by an authentication server.

[0027] If the authentication is successful and the administrator logs in, the administrator is given access rights to create tasks, register schedules, and execute tasks, and if the administrator is a general user, the administrator is given access rights to execute tasks.

[0028] The terminal device 101 may be, for example, a PC (Personal Computer), a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a wearable PC (sunglasses type, wristwatch type, etc.), etc. However, it is sufficient if the device has a communication function and dedicated application software runs on a web browser or DFE 102. For example, the terminal device 101 may also be a car navigation system, a game console, a television set, etc.

[0029] If a web browser also runs on the image forming apparatus 103, the administrator can operate the image forming apparatus to request the DFE 102 to create a task, register a schedule, and execute the task.

[0030] Furthermore, the DFE 102 can display an input operation screen on its own display and accept task creation, schedule registration, and task execution processing from a keyboard. In this case, the information processing system 100 does not require the terminal device 101.

[0031] The DFE 102 is essentially an information processing apparatus that accepts print jobs to be executed by the image forming apparatus 103, performs image processing (RIP: Raster Image Processor), manages progress during execution, monitors for abnormalities, etc. In this embodiment, the DFE 102 also accepts maintenance-related processing and requests the image forming apparatus 103 to perform the processing. The DFE 102 accepts task creation, schedule registration, and task execution processing from the terminal apparatus 101. In other words, the DFE 102 provides the administrator with a user interface (input operation screen) for operating the image forming apparatus 103. The DFE 102 has one or more information processing apparatuses.

[0032] The DFE 102 generates screen information for a screen displayed by a web browser. The screen information is a program written in HTML, XML, a scripting language, CSS (cascading style sheet), etc. The structure of a web page is mainly specified by HTML, the behavior of the web page is defined by the scripting language, and the style of the web page is specified by CSS. An application realized by the cooperation of client-side screen information and server-side applications and databases is called a web application. In this embodiment, the terminal device 101 and the DFE 102 also work together to execute the web application.

[0033] In response to a request from the terminal device 101 or the image forming device 103, the DFE 102 performs processing for registering tasks and task schedules in a database, and for executing tasks (such as changing device settings and requesting operations) on the image forming device.

[0034] The image forming apparatus 103 executes a print job in response to a request received from the DFE 102. In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 103 also receives maintenance work, and, for example, changes the device settings of the image forming apparatus 103 in accordance with the task or executes a specified operation.

[0035] The image forming device 103 has a function of printing an image on paper. Methods for forming an image include a laser printer, an inkjet printer, etc. The image forming device 103 may also have the function of a multifunction printer or an MFP (Multi-function Peripheral / Product / Printer). The image forming device 103 may also be called a printer, a printing device, etc.

[0036] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 103 of this embodiment may be a so-called commercial printer. A commercial printer is not a device that prints printed materials for internal use by employees or the like, but is a device for commercial printing in which printed materials are commercial products. In commercial printing, the image forming apparatus 103 outputs printed materials used in the business activities of general companies and organizations. For example, it may output flyers, pamphlets, posters, catalogs, company brochures, manuals, etc. Office image forming apparatuses and commercial image forming apparatuses differ mainly in print speed, image quality, and supported paper types and sizes.

[0037] This embodiment can also be applied to devices other than the image forming device 103. The image forming device 103 may be, for example, a PJ (Projector), an electronic whiteboard, a video conference terminal, a digital signage, a HUD (Head Up Display) device, industrial machinery, an imaging device, a sound collection device, a medical device, a network home appliance, a game console, a wearable PC, or a desktop PC.

[0038] In the explanation of Fig. 4, it has been explained that the DFE 102 is responsible for maintenance-related processing (Web applications). However, maintenance-related processing can be handled by any server device 104, and for example, maintenance-related processing may be performed by an independent server device 104 shown in Fig. 4(d). In the case of Fig. 4(d), the server device 104 communicates with the image forming device 103 to change settings according to tasks and execute specified operations.

[0039] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 103 may perform maintenance-related processing. In this case, the image forming apparatus 103 has the functions of the server apparatus 104.

[0040] <Hardware configuration> < <dfe>> 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of the DFE 102. The DFE 102 has a configuration similar to that of a computer. The DFE 102 includes a CPU 201, a ROM 202, a RAM 203, an HDD / SSD 204, an I / F 205, and an operation unit 206.

[0041] The CPU 201 uses the RAM 203 as a work area and executes a program stored in the ROM 202 .

[0042] The HDD / SSD 204 is used as a storage unit and stores information about tasks and schedules. The information stored in the HDD / SSD 204 may be read by the CPU 201 and used when executing a program.

[0043] The I / F 205 is an interface that enables communication with the image forming apparatus 103 and the terminal apparatus 101 .

[0044] The operation unit 206 has a touch panel and displays on the screen the status of the image forming apparatus, task schedules, task contents, etc. The operation unit 206 also accepts input from users (administrators and general users) who execute tasks, and from administrators who create tasks and register schedules.

[0045] <<Image forming device>> 6 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of an image forming apparatus 103 according to this embodiment. The image forming apparatus 103 is, for example, an inkjet type image forming apparatus, and mainly includes a paper feed unit 401, an image forming unit 306, a drying unit 402, a paper discharge unit 403, and a control device 423. The image forming apparatus 103 forms an image on paper P, which is a recording material as a sheet material fed from the paper feed unit 401, using ink, which is a liquid for image formation, in the image forming unit 306. The image forming apparatus 103 then dries the ink adhering to the paper in the drying unit 402, and then discharges the paper from the paper discharge unit 403.

[0046] The paper feed unit 401 is mainly composed of a paper feed tray 411 on which a plurality of sheets P are stacked, a feed device 412 that separates and feeds the sheets one by one from the paper feed tray 411, and a pair of registration rollers 413 that feeds the sheets to the image forming unit 306. Any type of feed device can be used for the feed device 412, such as a device using rollers or a device using air suction. After the leading edge of the sheet fed from the paper feed tray 411 by the feed device 412 reaches the pair of registration rollers 413, the pair of registration rollers 413 is driven at a predetermined timing to feed the sheet to the image forming unit 306. In this embodiment, there are no limitations on the configuration of the paper feed unit 401 as long as it feeds the sheet P to the image forming unit 306.

[0047] The image forming unit 306 is mainly composed of a receiving drum 361 that receives fed paper P, a paper carrying drum 362 that carries and carries the paper P transported by the receiving drum 361 on its outer surface, an ink ejection unit 364 that ejects ink toward the paper P carried on the paper carrying drum 362, and a delivery drum 365 that delivers the paper P transported by the paper carrying drum 362 to the drying unit 402. The paper P transported from the paper feeding unit 401 to the image forming unit 306 has its leading edge gripped by a paper gripper provided on the surface of the receiving drum 361, and is transported as the surface of the receiving drum 361 moves. The paper transported by the receiving drum 361 is delivered to the paper carrying drum 362 at a position facing the paper carrying drum 362.

[0048] A paper gripper is also provided on the surface of paper carrying drum 362, and the leading edge of the paper is gripped by the paper gripper. In addition, multiple suction holes are formed dispersedly on the surface of paper carrying drum 362, and a suction device 363 generates a suction air current at each suction hole that flows inward of paper carrying drum 362. When paper P is handed over from receiving cylinder 361 to paper carrying drum 362, the leading edge is gripped by the paper gripper, and the paper is adsorbed to the surface of paper carrying drum 362 by the suction air current, and is transported as the surface of paper carrying drum 362 moves.

[0049] The ink ejection unit 364 of this embodiment ejects four colors of ink: C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow), and K (black) to form an image, and is provided with individual liquid ejection heads 364C, 364M, 364Y, and 364K, one for each ink. The liquid ejection heads 364C, 364M, 364Y, and 364K are not limited in configuration as long as they eject liquid, and any configuration can be used. The ink ejection unit 364 may be provided with a liquid ejection head that ejects special inks, such as white, gold, or silver, or with a liquid ejection head that ejects a liquid that does not form an image, such as a surface coating liquid, as needed.

[0050] The ejection operation of each of the liquid ejection heads 364C, 364M, 364Y, and 364K of the ink ejection unit 364 is controlled by a drive signal corresponding to image information. When the paper P carried on the paper carrying drum 362 passes through an area facing the ink ejection unit 364, each color ink is ejected from the liquid ejection heads 364C, 364M, 364Y, and 364K, and an image corresponding to the image information is formed. Note that in this embodiment, the configuration of the image forming unit 306 is not limited as long as it deposits liquid on the paper P to form an image.

[0051] The drying unit 402 is mainly composed of a drying mechanism 421 for drying the ink that has adhered to the paper P in the image forming unit 306, and a transport mechanism 422 for transporting the paper P transported from the image forming unit 306. The paper P transported from the image forming unit 306 is received by the transport mechanism 422, then transported to pass through the drying mechanism 421 and delivered to the paper discharge unit 403. As the paper P passes through the drying mechanism 421, a drying process is performed on the ink on the paper P, which evaporates the liquid content in the ink, causing the ink to adhere to the paper P and suppressing curling of the paper P.

[0052] The paper discharge unit 403 is mainly composed of a paper discharge tray 431 on which a plurality of sheets of paper P are stacked. The sheets of paper P conveyed from the drying unit 402 are sequentially stacked and held on the paper discharge tray 431. In this embodiment, the paper discharge unit 403 is not limited in its configuration as long as it can discharge the sheets of paper P.

[0053] The control device 423 is an information processing device that controls the image forming device. The control device 423 includes, for example, a CPU, RAM, ROM, SSD (HDD), and a communication device. The control device 423 communicates with the DFE 102 and receives setting values ​​and operation requests according to the execution of tasks.

[0054] <About the function> Figure 7 is a functional block diagram that explains the functions of the DFE 102, broken down into blocks. Each unit in Figure 7 is a web application function that is realized by the server function in the DFE 102 working in conjunction with the web browser of the terminal device 101. First, a general-purpose function that is used regardless of rescheduling will be explained. Also, it is assumed that the web browser is running on the terminal device 101. The processing of the DFE 102 can be the same whether the web browser is running on the DFE 102 or the administrator operates the DFE 102 directly.

[0055] 7, the DFE 102 includes an input acquisition unit 11, an image display unit 12, an information update unit 13, an information acquisition unit 14, and a storage unit 20. These functions of the DFE 102 are functions or units that are realized by the CPU 201 executing instructions included in one or more programs installed in the DFE 102.

[0056] The input acquisition means 11 acquires, from the terminal device 101, information that has been input to a screen displayed by a web browser of the terminal device 101, for example.

[0057] The image display means 12 generates screen information in response to the operation acquired by the input acquisition means 11. The image display means 12 is realized by HTML included in the screen information, JavaScript (registered trademark), and a server program on the DFE 102 side, and updates the screen display in response to input to the web browser.

[0058] The information update means 13 stores the input results and processing results to the web browser in the storage means 20. The information acquisition means 14 acquires from the storage means 20 the information to be requested that has been input to the web browser.

[0059] <<Rescheduling functions>> Next, the task rescheduling function in this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Note that components in Fig. 8 with the same reference numerals as those in Fig. 7 perform similar functions, so in some cases only the main components of this embodiment will be mainly described.

[0060] The input acquisition means 11 acquires information about the work end time input by the user from the terminal device 101. The information update means 13 stores the work end time registered by the user in the work time storage means 21.

[0061] The current time acquisition means 15 acquires the current time from an RTC (Real Time Clock) or a time management server on the network, and transmits the current time to the rescheduling means 16.

[0062] The rescheduling means 16 acquires the unexecuted schedule for the day and the schedule for tomorrow and thereafter from the schedule information storage means 22, and acquires the estimated required time of the tasks registered in each schedule from the task information storage means 23. The rescheduling means 16 reschedules the unexecuted tasks by adding the unexecuted schedule for the day to the free time in the schedule for tomorrow.

[0063] The information acquiring means 14 acquires the rescheduled schedule information from the schedule information storage means 22 and transmits it to the image display means. The image display means generates screen information for displaying the schedule information transmitted from the information acquiring means 14 and transmits it to the terminal device 101.

[0064] In addition, the storage means 20 includes a working time storage means 21, a schedule information storage means 22, and a task information storage means 23.

[0065] 9 shows an example of work time information stored in the work time storage means 21. As shown in Fig. 9, work end times are set in the work time storage means 21. The work end times can be registered in the DFE 102 by the user.

[0066] FIG. 10 shows an example of a work end time setting screen 790 displayed by the terminal device 101. The work end time setting screen 790 is transitioned to from the schedule display screen, which will be described later. The work end time setting screen 790 has a display start time field 791, a display end time field 792, and an update timing field 793. The display start time field 791 and the display end time field 792 specify the display range of the schedule on the schedule display screen (the start and end times of the schedule to be displayed). The update timing field 793 sets the work end time. In other words, the update timing field 793 sets the time at which the schedule of an unperformed task will be updated. The display start time field 791, the display end time field 792, and the update timing field 793 are all pull-down menus, allowing the user to select a time.

[0067] 11 shows task information stored in the task information storage means 23. The task information associates the task ID of the created task, the task name, the task implementation details, and the estimated task required time. The task implementation details include task parts 52 (see FIG. 1) that are further classified and the execution order.

[0068] 12 shows the schedule information stored in the schedule information storage means 22. The schedule information is a timetable (timetable) on which tasks are to be performed. The schedule information has the following items: schedule ID, task ID to be performed, task execution date when the task is scheduled to be performed, scheduled start time, scheduled end time, start time, end time, execution status, and rescheduled.

[0069] The schedule ID is the identification information for the schedule. One schedule corresponds to one task. The schedule ID is assigned when the schedule is registered.

[0070] The task ID to be performed is the identification information of the task that is registered in the schedule and is to be performed.

[0071] The task execution date is the date on which the task is scheduled to be executed. It is registered by the administrator.

[0072] The scheduled start time is the time when the task is scheduled to start. It is registered by the administrator.

[0073] The scheduled end time is the time when the task is scheduled to end. Since the time required for the task components 52 of a task is fixed, this may be set automatically or by an administrator. Alternatively, the start time and end time are recorded, and the scheduled end time may be set using the average of these times. Furthermore, the scheduled end time may be set using the average for each user who is scheduled to perform the task.

[0074] The start time is the time when the task actually begins.

[0075] The end time is the time when the task actually ends.

[0076] The implementation status indicates whether the task has been completed or not. The implementation status is either "Completed" or "Not yet completed." The default value is "Not yet completed," and when the user presses the "Completed" button, it becomes "Completed."

[0077] Rescheduled indicates that the task has been rescheduled, with a value of "Yes" if the task has been rescheduled, and "No" if it has not. This indicates that the task has been rescheduled. <Operation procedure> Next, the flow of processing or operations performed by the information processing system 100 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0078] First, the registration of a work end time will be described with reference to Fig. 13. Fig. 13 is an example of a flowchart illustrating the procedure or operation by which the DFE 102 registers a work end time in response to an operation from an administrator. The administrator sets the work end time in the DFE 102 by the terminal device 101 communicating with the DFE 102, the image forming device 103 communicating with the DFE 102, or the administrator directly operating the FE 102. Fig. 13 describes a case where the administrator operates the terminal device 101.

[0079] The administrator operates the terminal device 101 to connect the terminal device 101 to the DFE 102. The terminal device 101 displays the work end time setting screen 790 shown in Fig. 10. The administrator inputs the work end time on the work end time setting screen 790 (S1).

[0080] The operation reception means 32 of the terminal device 101 receives the input, and the communication means 33 transmits the work end time to the DFE 102 (S2).

[0081] The input acquisition means 11 of the DFE 102 receives the work end time, and the information update means 13 updates the work end time in the work hours storage means 21 with the work end time acquired by the input acquisition means 11 (S3).

[0082] The information acquisition means 14 acquires the work end time from the work time storage means 21 and passes it to the image display means 12 (S4).

[0083] The image display means 12 generates screen information for displaying the work end time received from the information acquisition means 14 and transmits it to the terminal device 101 (S5). The terminal device 101 displays the updated work end time, allowing the manager to confirm the work end time that he or she entered.

[0084] <<Rescheduling process 1>> Next, task rescheduling will be described with reference to Fig. 14. Fig. 14 is an example of a flowchart illustrating the procedure or operation of the DFE 102 to reschedule an unexecuted task in response to a change in the date.

[0085] The user starts up the DFE 102 (S11). Starting up refers to returning from a sleep state, turning on the power from a shutdown state, etc. Instead of being started up by the user, the DFE 102 may be started up automatically.

[0086] The current time acquisition means 15 repeatedly notifies the rescheduling means 16 of the current time (S12).

[0087] The rescheduling means 16 determines whether the date has changed based on the current time (S13). The date has changed when 23:59:59 of the current day becomes 00:00:00 of the next day. The time at which the date changes may be set. The rescheduling means 16 waits until the date changes.

[0088] If the current time and the work end time match (Yes in S13), the rescheduling means 16 acquires the unexecuted tasks for that day from the schedule information storage means 22 (S14).

[0089] Moreover, the rescheduling means 16 acquires the schedule information for the next day from the schedule information storage means 22 (S15).

[0090] Next, the rescheduling means 16 acquires the estimated required times of the tasks that have not yet been performed on that day from the task information storage means 23 (S16).

[0091] The rescheduling means 16 identifies free time in tomorrow's schedule that is longer than the estimated required time of the unperformed task, and creates tomorrow's schedule information by setting the unperformed task in this free time (S17). There are several variations in the rescheduling of unperformed tasks into free time, and details will be explained with reference to Figures 16 to 20. As an example, the rescheduling means 16 gives priority to the oldest unperformed task and assigns it to free time in tomorrow's schedule. If there is no free time in tomorrow's schedule, the same process is performed for the schedule for the day after tomorrow.

[0092] The information updating means 13 receives the rescheduled schedule information for tomorrow from the rescheduling means 16 and registers it in the schedule information storage means 22 (S18).

[0093] The information acquisition means 14 acquires the updated schedule information from the schedule information storage means 22 and passes it to the image display means 12 (S19).

[0094] The image display means 12 generates screen information based on the rescheduled schedule information and transmits it to the terminal device 101 (S20).

[0095] <<Rescheduling process part 2>> Next, rescheduling of tasks when work hours end will be described with reference to Fig. 15. Fig. 15 is an example of a flowchart illustrating the procedure or operation of the DFE 102 when rescheduling unexecuted tasks when work hours end. The explanation of Fig. 15 will mainly focus on the differences from Fig. 14. In the processing of Fig. 15, step S101 is added, and S13-2 is different from Fig. 14.

[0096] When the DFE 102 is started, the rescheduling means 16 acquires the work end time from the work time storage means 21 to determine whether or not the work of the day has ended (S101).

[0097] The current time obtaining means 15 repeatedly notifies the rescheduling means 16 of the current time (S12-2). The rescheduling means 16 may obtain the current time from the current time obtaining means 15.

[0098] The rescheduling means 16 determines whether the current time matches the work end time (S13-2). The rescheduling means 16 waits until the current time matches the work end time. A perfect match is not required; it is sufficient if the current time passes the work end time. The processing after the current time passes the work end time can be the same as in FIG. 14.

[0099] <Rescheduling Variations> Variations in rescheduling will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0100] Fig. 16 shows a method for rescheduling an unperformed task to the earliest available free time among free times longer than the estimated required time of the unperformed task. In Fig. 16, there are two free times 712 and 713 on the next day that are longer than the estimated required time of an unperformed task 711 on that day, and the rescheduling means 16 reschedules the unperformed task 711 on that day to the earliest available free time 712 among these.

[0101] 17 shows a method for rescheduling to the earliest available free time when there are multiple unexecuted tasks, without considering the order of the unexecuted tasks. There are two unexecuted tasks 721, 722 on the current day. There are two available times 723, 724 on the next day. The rescheduling means 16 prioritizes the unexecuted task with the earliest scheduled start time among the multiple unexecuted tasks 721, 722.

[0102] The rescheduling means 16 reschedules the unexecuted task 721 having the earliest scheduled start time to the earliest available free time 724 that is longer than the estimated required time of the unexecuted task 721. Similarly, the rescheduling means 16 reschedules the unexecuted task 722 having the next earliest scheduled start time to the earliest available free time 723 that is longer than the estimated required time of the unexecuted task 722. Therefore, in this case, the execution order of the unexecuted tasks 721 and 722 may be reversed, as shown in FIG.

[0103] 18 shows a method for rescheduling to the earliest available free time when there are multiple unexecuted tasks, taking into consideration the order of the unexecuted tasks. There are two unexecuted tasks 731, 732 on the current day. There are two available times 733, 734 on the next day. Of the multiple unexecuted tasks 731, 732, the rescheduling means 16 prioritizes rescheduling the unexecuted task 731, which has the earliest scheduled start time.

[0104] The rescheduling means 16 reschedules the unexecuted task 731 having the earliest scheduled start time to the earliest available free time 734 that is longer than the estimated required time of the unexecuted task 731. On the other hand, the rescheduling means 16 reschedules the unexecuted task 732 of the day to the available free time 734 that is longer than the estimated required time of the unexecuted task 732 having the next earliest scheduled start time, and that arrives after the rescheduled task 731. Therefore, in this case, as shown in FIG. 18 , the execution order of the unexecuted tasks 731 and 732 is not reversed.

[0105] Figure 19 shows a method for rescheduling multiple unperformed tasks together to the first day after the start of work the next day. As shown in Figure 19(a), there are two unperformed tasks 741 and 742 on the current day. There are two free times 743 and 744 on the next day. However, the free time 743 is shorter than the total estimated required time of the two unperformed tasks 741 and 742.

[0106] The rescheduling means 16 reschedules all unexecuted tasks 741, 742 to the beginning of the next day after the start of work hours. Then, as shown in Fig. 19(b), if a task 745 that overlaps with the estimated required times of all the rescheduled unexecuted tasks is registered, the overlapping task 745 is registered after all the rescheduled unexecuted tasks 741, 742.

[0107] This allows uncompleted tasks to be performed with priority, and the order of uncompleted tasks will not be changed.

[0108] Figure 20 shows a method for rescheduling multiple unperformed tasks together to free time on the next day. There are two unperformed tasks 751 and 752 on the current day. There are two free times 753 and 754 on the next day. However, the free time 753 is shorter than the total estimated required time of the two unperformed tasks 751 and 752.

[0109] The rescheduling means 16 reschedules all unexecuted tasks to the earliest available free time 754 among the available free times longer than the total estimated required times of all unexecuted tasks 751 and 752 .

[0110] This way, existing tasks are not rescheduled and uncompleted tasks are not reordered.

[0111] <Schedule information display example> 21 is a diagram showing an example of the schedule setting screen 640. Below, the items included in the schedule setting screen 640 will be described. The task name 641 is the name of the task. The administrator may be able to select the task from a pull-down menu. The required time 642 is the estimated required time for the task registered in the task information storage means 23. If a user who is scheduled to perform the task is set in the user column 646 and the average required time for the task for this user is registered in the average required time information, the average required time for the task for the user is displayed. The execution plan date 643 is an item in which the administrator sets the date on which the task is to be executed from a calendar or the like. The start time 644 is an item in which the administrator sets the scheduled time to start the execution of the task. The repeat period 645 is an item in which the administrator sets the period during which the task is to be repeated if the task is to be repeated. Since there are many tasks that are to be repeated, such a setting can reduce the workload of the administrator. In the user column 646, a list of users who have been registered in the user information is displayed in a pull-down menu or the like. The schedule column 647 is a column where registered tasks are displayed on a calendar.

[0112] When the administrator presses the OK button 648, a schedule similar to that in the schedule field 647 is displayed, and the newly registered task is displayed in this schedule. The implementation plan date 643 and start time 644 may be reflected in the schedule field 647 in real time.

[0113] 22 is a diagram showing an example of a schedule display screen 650. The schedule display screen 650 can also accept task execution, and can be called a task execution screen. Items included in the schedule display screen 650 will be described.

[0114] The schedule field 651 is a field that displays tasks registered in the schedule information. The user can display the task schedule by month, week, or day. The image display means 12 displays tasks according to the display setting (month, week, day) and the current time. For example, the schedule field 651 displays tasks for one month, one week, one day, etc. including the current time. In FIG. 22, the schedule field 651 is a day display. When a general user switches the display setting, the image display means 12 obtains tasks included in the display range of the display setting (day, week, month) from the schedule information, obtains task information for these tasks, and updates the schedule display. The tasks displayed in the schedule field 651 are associated with a screen related to the execution of the task. One of the tasks displayed in the schedule field 651 is displayed in the task field 652.

[0115] Two tasks 761 and 762 are displayed in the schedule column 651, of which the first task 761 is a rescheduled task. The rescheduled task 761 is displayed in a different manner from tasks that have already been performed, such as in red.

[0116] The task column 652 displays the most recent task relative to the current time. In the task column 652, task 59 ("Paper feeding belt cleaning") that has not yet been performed is displayed at the top. In other words, tasks that have been rescheduled from the previous day are displayed at the top. Task 59 is also displayed in a different style from tasks that have already been performed, such as in red.

[0117] In Fig. 22, apart from the unexecuted task 59, there are three tasks, "Web cleaner replacement," "Channel plate cleaning," and "Head cap cleaning," that are scheduled to be executed on the date selected in the schedule field 651. Of these, the details of "Head cap cleaning" are displayed in Fig. 22.

[0118] Each task component has a button 653, and when the administrator presses the button 653, the state of the button 653 changes as follows. For example, the button 653 may change from Execute → Display of the task being executed → Display of the completed task. When the button 653 is pressed in the "Execute" state, it accepts execution of the task as an execution button and performs an adjustment operation on the image forming apparatus 103. The button 653 may be displayed as "Start adjustment" instead of "Execute." Examples of adjustments and maintenance that the DFE 102 can perform include automatic cleaning of the transfer belt, alignment of the print position, and nozzle cleaning. After the "Execute" or "Start adjustment" button is pressed, a message such as "Complete" is displayed next to the button 653.

[0119] <Major Effects> As described above, the information processing system of this embodiment can prevent users from forgetting to perform maintenance by automatically rescheduling unperformed tasks into free time when the date changes or working hours end.

[0120] <Other application examples> The best mode for carrying out the present invention has been described above using examples, but the present invention is not limited to these examples in any way, and various modifications and substitutions can be made within the scope that does not deviate from the gist of the present invention.

[0121] For example, in this embodiment, the terminal device 101 uses a general-purpose web browser, but the DFE 102 may use a dedicated application.

[0122] 7, 8, and other configuration examples are divided according to main functions to facilitate understanding of the processing by the terminal device 101, DFE 102, and image forming device 103. The present invention is not limited by the way in which the processing units are divided or the names of the processing units. The processing by the terminal device 101, DFE 102, and image forming device 103 can also be divided into more processing units depending on the processing content. Furthermore, the processing units can also be divided so that one processing unit includes more processes.

[0123] Additionally, the devices described in the examples represent only one of several computing environments for implementing the embodiments disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the DFE 102 includes multiple computing devices, such as a server cluster, configured to communicate with each other via any type of communications link, including a network, shared memory, etc., and to perform the processes disclosed herein.

[0124] Furthermore, the DFE 102 can be configured to share the disclosed processing steps, for example, the flowcharts of Figures 13 to 15, in various combinations. For example, the process executed by a specific unit can be executed by multiple information processing devices included in the DFE 102. Furthermore, the DFE 102 may be integrated into a single server device, or may be divided into multiple devices.

[0125] Each function of the above-described embodiments can be realized by one or more processing circuits. Here, the term "processing circuit" in this specification includes a processor programmed to perform each function by software, such as a processor implemented by an electronic circuit, as well as devices such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), and conventional circuit modules designed to perform each of the above-described functions. [Explanation of symbols]

[0126] 101 Terminal equipment 102 DFE 103 Image forming device 104 Server device [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0127] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-225531< / dfe>

Claims

1. An information processing system having a device and an information processing device that accepts registration of a task related to the device and execution of the task, a schedule information storage means for storing schedule information in which the tasks are registered; a current time acquisition means for acquiring the current time; a rescheduling means for rescheduling an unexecuted task when there is an unexecuted task that has not yet been executed based on the current time acquired by the current time acquisition means; an image display means for displaying a rescheduled task in a manner different from that of a non-rescheduled task, the image display means registering that the rescheduled task has been rescheduled in the schedule information storage means; and when it is determined that the date has changed based on the current time acquired by the current time acquisition means, the rescheduling means reschedules the unexecuted task that should be executed before the date change to the earliest available free time among available times that are longer than the estimated required time of the unexecuted task, the task is work related to adjustment or maintenance of the device, the image display means displays an execution button for executing an operation on the device for each of the tasks registered in the schedule information; Executing the task by pressing the execution button; An information processing system characterized by:

2. A working time storage means for storing a working end time is provided, 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein, when the current time passes the end of work time, the rescheduling means reschedules an unexecuted task that is stored in the schedule information storage means and that is to be executed before the current time passes the end of work time.

3. 3. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein when there are a plurality of unperformed tasks, the rescheduling means prioritizes the unperformed tasks in order of earliest scheduled start times and reschedules the unperformed task to the earliest available free time among available times that are longer than the required time of the unperformed task.

4. When there are a plurality of unexecuted tasks, the rescheduling means prioritizes the unexecuted tasks in order of earliest scheduled start time, 3. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the execution order of the unperformed tasks is maintained, and the unperformed tasks are rescheduled to the earliest available free time among available times longer than the required time of the unperformed tasks.

5. the rescheduling means reschedules all of the unexecuted tasks to the first time after the start of work on the next day; 3. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein, when a task that overlaps with the rescheduled unexecuted task is registered, the overlapping task is registered after all of the rescheduled unexecuted tasks.

6. 3. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the rescheduling means reschedules all of the unperformed tasks to the earliest available free time among available times longer than the total estimated required times of all of the unperformed tasks.

7. An information processing device for a task that accepts registration of a task related to a device and execution of the task, a schedule information storage means for storing schedule information in which the tasks are registered; a current time acquisition means for acquiring the current time; a rescheduling means for rescheduling an unexecuted task when there is an unexecuted task that has not yet been executed based on the current time acquired by the current time acquisition means; an image display means for displaying a rescheduled task in a manner different from that of a non-rescheduled task, the image display means registering that the rescheduled task has been rescheduled in the schedule information storage means; and when it is determined that the date has changed based on the current time acquired by the current time acquisition means, the rescheduling means reschedules the unexecuted task that should be executed before the date change to the earliest available free time among available times that are longer than the estimated required time of the unexecuted task, the task is work related to adjustment or maintenance of the device, the image display means displays an execution button for executing an operation on the device for each of the tasks registered in the schedule information; Executing the task by pressing the execution button; An information processing device characterized by:

8. 1. An information processing method performed by an information processing system having a device and an information processing device that accepts registration of a task related to the device and execution of the task, acquiring schedule information from a schedule information storage means in which the task is registered; A step in which current time acquisition means acquires the current time; a step in which, when there is an unexecuted task that has not yet been executed based on the current time acquired by the current time acquisition means, a rescheduling means reschedules the unexecuted task; a step in which the schedule information storage means registers that the rescheduled task has been rescheduled, and an image display means displays the rescheduled task in a manner different from that of a task that has not been rescheduled; and when it is determined that the date has changed based on the current time acquired by the current time acquisition means, the rescheduling means reschedules the unexecuted task that should be executed before the date change to the earliest available free time among available times that are longer than the estimated required time of the unexecuted task, the task is work related to adjustment or maintenance of the device, the image display means displays an execution button for executing an operation on the device for each of the tasks registered in the schedule information; Executing the task by pressing the execution button; An information processing method comprising:

9. An information processing device that accepts registration of a task related to a device and execution of the task, acquiring schedule information from a schedule information storage means in which the task is registered; A step in which current time acquisition means acquires the current time; a step in which, when there is an unexecuted task that has not yet been executed based on the current time acquired by the current time acquisition means, a rescheduling means reschedules the unexecuted task; a step in which the schedule information storage means registers that the rescheduled task has been rescheduled, and an image display means displays the rescheduled task in a manner different from that of a task that has not been rescheduled; Execute when it is determined that the date has changed based on the current time acquired by the current time acquisition means, the rescheduling means reschedules the unexecuted task that should be executed before the date change to the earliest available free time among available times that are longer than the estimated required time of the unexecuted task, the task is work related to adjustment or maintenance of the device, the image display means displays an execution button for executing an operation on the device for each of the tasks registered in the schedule information; Executing the task by pressing the execution button; A program characterized by.

10. The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The operation is an adjustment operation. An information processing system comprising:

11. The information processing device according to claim 7, The operation is an adjustment operation.

1. An information processing device comprising:

12. The information processing method according to claim 8, The operation is an adjustment operation.

1. An information processing method comprising:

13. The program according to claim 9, The operation is an adjustment operation. A program characterized by:

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