Image forming apparatus, image forming system, and image forming program

Abstract

To provide an image forming apparatus, an image forming system, and an image forming program capable of outputting an image forming object easier to handle at the time of delivery than a case of simply performing image formation when requesting a third party different from a recipient for a request for image formation and delivery of an image forming object.SOLUTION: When an image forming apparatus receives a delivery request of an image formation product by a third party different from a recipient, a packaging sheet 50 is output. Then, blinding paper 54 for blinding is added and outputted to the front and rear of a document 56 of the delivery request on the packaging sheet 50, and a destination paper 52 in which a delivery destination is finally described is output. The blinding paper 54 for blinding forms an image of a predetermined random pattern.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, an image forming system, and an image forming program. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 proposes a print distribution system in which a requester brings distribution data corresponding to the printed matter they wish to distribute and data related to the recipient to a print shop, and uses a terminal installed in the print shop that can communicate with the server to process the request to the server.The server, upon receiving the request to distribute the printed matter, considers the output method, the recipient's address, etc., and information about print shops connected via the Internet, searches for the most suitable print shop from among them, and notifies the recipient of which print shop the print can be printed at, using the notification method and notification destination information for the recipient that was learned when the request was accepted. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-197012 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When requesting image formation and delivery of the image-formed objects from a third party other than the recipient, simply forming an image of the document to be delivered is not enough; unless a separate container or clips are prepared to hold the image-formed objects, the image-formed objects are likely to fall apart due to carelessness during delivery, making handling cumbersome. Furthermore, when responding to multiple delivery requests, if the image-formed objects for each delivery destination overlap, it becomes difficult to pick out the target image-formed objects from among the multiple delivery destinations, making handling even more cumbersome.

[0005] Therefore, the object is to provide an image forming device, an image forming system, and an image forming program that can output an image formed object that is easier to handle at the time of delivery than when simply forming an image, when a request for image formation and delivery of the image formed object are requested from a third party other than the recipient. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, the image forming device of the first aspect is equipped with a processor, which, when receiving a delivery request for an image-formed object from a third party other than the recipient, outputs a predetermined packaging recording medium that is larger than or equal to the size of the document to be delivered, and performs processing to output the document onto the packaging recording medium.

[0007] In addition, the image forming device of the second aspect is the image forming device of the first aspect, in which the processor inserts predetermined concealing recording media into both the front and back of the delivery request document and outputs it as a single image formed object on the packaging recording media.

[0008] In addition, the image forming device of the third aspect is the image forming device of the first aspect, and is equipped with a processor, wherein the processor forms a predetermined masking image on the packaging recording medium and outputs it, and inserts the predetermined masking recording medium into the delivery request document after the document, and outputs it on the packaging recording medium as a single image formation.

[0009] An image forming apparatus according to a fourth aspect is the image forming apparatus according to the second or third aspect, wherein the processor forms a predetermined random pattern on a recording medium and outputs the recording medium as the blindfold recording medium.

[0010] In addition, an image forming apparatus according to a fifth aspect is the image forming apparatus according to the second or third aspect, wherein the processor outputs a recording medium on which a predetermined random pattern has been formed, or a recording medium of a predetermined color, as the concealing recording medium.

[0011] In addition, an image forming apparatus according to a sixth aspect is an image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, in which the processor forms information for identifying the document on a recording medium and further outputs it onto the image formation.

[0012] In addition, an image forming apparatus according to a seventh aspect is the image forming apparatus according to the second aspect, wherein the processor forms information for identifying the document on one side of the concealing recording medium inserted before the document, and forms and outputs a predetermined concealing image on the other side.

[0013] In addition, an image forming apparatus according to an eighth aspect is an image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein the packaging recording medium is a recording medium of a predetermined size capable of producing a predetermined pseudo-envelope.

[0014] In addition, an image forming apparatus according to a ninth aspect is the image forming apparatus according to the eighth aspect, wherein the processor further performs processing to form an image of a folded line for creating the pseudo envelope on the packaging recording medium.

[0015] An image forming apparatus according to a tenth aspect is the image forming apparatus according to the ninth aspect, wherein the processor changes the position of the broken line depending on the size and number of pages of the document.

[0016] In addition, an image forming apparatus according to an eleventh aspect is an image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to tenth aspects, wherein the processor outputs paper of a size predetermined according to the size of the document as the packaging recording medium.

[0017] In addition, an image forming apparatus according to a 12th aspect is an image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to 11th aspects, wherein the processor further performs processing to output a predetermined procedure for creating a pseudo-envelope by folding the packaging recording medium.

[0018] In addition, an image forming system according to a thirteenth aspect includes the image forming device described above; an information processing device that receives information on the image forming object of the image forming device and information on a delivery destination of the image forming object and determines a deliverer; and a mobile terminal device that is carried by the deliverer and receives information on the image forming object and information on the delivery destination from the information processing device.

[0019] In addition, the image forming program according to the fourteenth aspect causes a computer, when receiving a delivery request for an image-formed object from a third party other than the recipient, to output a predetermined packaging recording medium that is larger than or equal to the size of the document to be delivered, and to execute a process of outputting the document onto the packaging recording medium. [Effects of the Invention]

[0020] According to the first aspect, when a request for image formation and delivery of the image-formed object is made to a third party other than the recipient, an image forming device can be provided that can output an image-formed object that is easier to handle at the time of delivery than when simply performing image formation.

[0021] According to the second aspect, the delivery request document is prevented from being seen through the packaging recording medium and the concealing recording medium.

[0022] According to the third aspect, the delivery request document is not visible through the two concealing recording media.

[0023] According to the fourth aspect, it is possible to prevent the delivery request document from being see-through.

[0024] According to the fifth aspect, it is possible to prevent the delivery request document from being see-through.

[0025] According to the sixth aspect, the deliverer can recognize the delivery destination.

[0026] According to the seventh aspect, the number of recording media to be output can be reduced compared to when a recording medium on which information for identifying a document is formed and a recording medium for concealment are output separately.

[0027] According to the eighth aspect, it is possible to create a pseudo envelope by enclosing the delivery request document in the packaging recording medium.

[0028] According to the ninth aspect, a pseudo envelope can be created more easily than when an image of a folded line is not formed.

[0029] According to the tenth aspect, it is possible to create a pseudo envelope of a size suited to the size of the delivery request document.

[0030] According to the eleventh aspect, it is possible to output a packaging recording medium that is suitable for the size of the delivery request document.

[0031] According to the twelfth aspect, even a delivery person who is inexperienced in the delivery work can create a pseudo envelope.

[0032] According to the thirteenth aspect, when a request for image formation and delivery of the image-formed object is made to a third party other than the recipient, an image-forming system can be provided that can output an image-formed object that is easier to handle at the time of delivery than when simply performing image formation.

[0033] According to the fourteenth aspect, when a request for image formation and delivery of the image-formed object is made to a third party other than the recipient, an image formation program can be provided that can output an image-formed object that is easier to handle at the time of delivery than when simply performing image formation. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0034] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an image forming system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a main part of an electrical system of an image forming apparatus in the image forming system according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main configuration of the electrical systems of a cloud server, a client computer, and a mobile terminal device in the image forming system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 4]10A and 10B are diagrams showing wrapping paper, cover paper, a delivery request document, and an address paper. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing how a delivery request document is wrapped in wrapping paper. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example in which a masking image is formed on wrapping paper and output, and the masking paper is added only after the delivery request document. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing performed by a mobile terminal device or a client computer when a delivery requester makes a delivery request in the image forming system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing performed by the cloud server when delivery destination and target information is transmitted to the cloud server in the image forming system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing carried out by a mobile terminal device or client computer of a person wishing to be a delivery contractor when a delivery person is recruited in the image forming system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 10] 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing performed by the image forming apparatus of the image forming system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 is a diagram showing an example in which the address paper is the same size as the wrapping paper. [Figure 12] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing an example of the application of a paper sheet having areas on each side of the packaging paper where adhesive that can be adhered by pressure is applied. [Figure 13] 10 is a diagram showing an example in which the addressing paper is the same size as the wrapping paper and has an area for glue on it. FIG. [Figure 14] 10A to 10C are diagrams illustrating an example of a procedure for folding packaging paper. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a sheet on which a work procedure is described. [Figure 16] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining a change position when a line indicating a bending position is dynamically changed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0035] An example of this embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, an image forming system in which an image forming apparatus, a cloud server as an example of an information processing apparatus, a client computer, and a wireless base station are connected to each other via communication lines such as various networks will be described as an example. Figure 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an image forming system 10 according to this embodiment.

[0036] 1, an image forming system 10 according to this embodiment includes an image forming device 12, a wireless base station 13, a client computer 15, and a cloud server 16. Although one image forming device 12 and one client computer 15 are shown in FIG. 1, there may be a plurality of each, or there may be a plurality of either one.

[0037] Image forming apparatus 12, wireless base station 13, client computer 15, and cloud server 16 are connected to each other via communication lines 18 such as a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), the Internet, an intranet, etc. Image forming apparatus 12, wireless base station 13, client computer 15, and cloud server 16 are capable of transmitting and receiving various types of data to and from each other via communication lines 18. Mobile terminal device 14 is also wirelessly connected to wireless base station 13, allowing transmission and reception of various types of data between mobile terminal device 14 and each device.

[0038] In the image forming system 10 according to this embodiment, a cloud server 16 provides cloud services in response to requests from a client computer 15, a mobile terminal device 14, or the like. As an example of the cloud service in this embodiment, a print delivery service will be described. The print delivery service is a service in which information on an image formation target and information on a delivery destination of the image formation target are uploaded to the cloud server 16 to request delivery of the image formation target, and a third-party delivery person is selected. The third-party delivery person then uses an image forming device 12 installed in a convenience store or the like to output the image formation target based on the uploaded information and deliver it to the delivery destination. Note that the person requesting delivery and the person receiving the delivery may be the same person or different people.

[0039] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main configuration of the electrical system of the image forming apparatus 12 in the image forming system 10 according to this embodiment.

[0040] As shown in Fig. 2, the image forming apparatus 12 according to this embodiment includes a control unit 20 including a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 20A, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 20B, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 20C. The CPU 20A controls the overall operation of the image forming apparatus 12. The RAM 20C is used as a work area when the CPU 20A executes various programs. The ROM 20B stores various control programs, parameters, and the like in advance. In the image forming apparatus 12, the various components of the control unit 20 are electrically connected via a system bus 42.

[0041] On the other hand, the image forming apparatus 12 according to this embodiment includes an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 26 that stores various data, application programs, etc. The image forming apparatus 12 is also connected to a user interface 22 and includes a display control unit 28 that controls the display of various operation screens, etc. on the display of the user interface 22. The image forming apparatus 12 is also connected to the user interface 22 and includes an operation input detection unit 30 that detects operation instructions input via the user interface 22. In the image forming apparatus 12, the HDD 26, the display control unit 28, and the operation input detection unit 30 are electrically connected to a system bus 42. Note that while the image forming apparatus 12 according to this embodiment uses the HDD 26 as a storage unit, this is not limiting and a non-volatile storage unit such as a flash memory may also be used.

[0042] The image forming apparatus 12 according to this embodiment also includes a reading control unit 32 that controls the optical image reading operation by the document reading unit 44 and the document feeding operation by the document transport unit, and an image forming control unit 34 that controls the image formation process by the image forming unit 24 and the transport of paper, an example of a recording medium, to the image forming unit 24 by the transport unit 25. The image forming apparatus 12 also includes a communication line I / F (interface) unit 36 ​​that is connected to a communication line 18 and transmits and receives communication data to and from other external devices, such as a cloud server 16, that are connected to the communication line 18. The image forming apparatus 12 also includes a facsimile I / F (interface) unit 38 that is connected to a telephone line (not shown) and transmits and receives facsimile data to and from a facsimile device connected to the telephone line. The image forming apparatus 12 also includes a transmission / reception control unit 40 that controls the transmission and reception of facsimile data via the facsimile I / F unit 38. In the image forming apparatus 12, the transmission / reception control unit 40, the reading control unit 32, the image forming control unit , the communication line I / F unit , and the facsimile I / F unit are electrically connected to a system bus .

[0043] With the above configuration, the image forming apparatus 12 according to this embodiment uses the CPU 20A to access the RAM 20C, the ROM 20B, and the HDD 26. The image forming apparatus 12 also uses the CPU 20A to control the display of information such as an operation screen and various messages on the display 22A of the user interface 22 via the display control unit 28. The image forming apparatus 12 also uses the CPU 20A to control the operation of the document reading unit 44 and the document transport unit via the reading control unit 32. The image forming apparatus 12 also uses the CPU 20A to control the operation of the image forming unit 24 and the transport unit 25 via the image formation control unit 34, and to control the transmission and reception of communication data via the communication line I / F unit 36. The image forming apparatus 12 also uses the CPU 20A to control the transmission and reception of facsimile data via the facsimile I / F unit 38 via the transmission and reception control unit 40. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 12 has the CPU 20A grasp the operation content in the user interface 22 based on the operation information detected by the operation input detection unit 30, and executes various controls based on the operation content.

[0044] Next, a description will be given of the main configuration of the electrical systems of the cloud server 16, the client computer 15, and the mobile terminal device 14 according to this embodiment. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing the main configuration of the electrical systems of the cloud server 16, the client computer 15, and the mobile terminal device 14 in the image forming system 10 according to this embodiment. Note that the cloud server 16, the client computer 15, and the mobile terminal device 14 basically have the configuration of a general computer, so the cloud server 16 will be described here as a representative.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 3 , the cloud server 16 according to this embodiment includes a CPU 16A, a ROM 16B, a RAM 16C, a HDD 16D, an operation unit 16E, a display unit 16F, and a communication line I / F (interface) unit 16G. The CPU 16A controls the overall operation of the cloud server 16. The ROM 16B stores various control programs and parameters in advance. The RAM 16C is used as a work area when the CPU 16A executes various programs. The HDD 16D stores various data and application programs. The operation unit 16E is used to input various information. The display unit 16F is used to display various information. The communication line I / F unit 16G is connected to a communication line 18 and transmits and receives various data to and from other devices connected to the communication line 18. The communication line I / F unit 16G may also be configured to communicate directly with each device using various well-known wireless communications. The above-described components of the cloud server 16 are electrically connected to each other via a system bus 16H. In addition, in the cloud server 16 according to this embodiment, the HDD 16D is used as a storage unit, but this is not limiting, and other non-volatile storage units such as flash memory may also be used.

[0046] With the above configuration, cloud server 16 according to this embodiment uses CPU 16A to access ROM 16B, RAM 16C, and HDD 16D, to obtain various data via operation unit 16E, and to display various information on display unit 16F. Cloud server 16 also uses CPU 16A to control the transmission and reception of communication data via communication line I / F unit 16G.

[0047] The mobile terminal device 14 and the client computer 15 are basically configured as general computers, and similar to the cloud server 16, include CPUs 14A, 15A, ROMs 14B, 15B, and RAMs 14C, 15C, etc., so detailed explanations are omitted.

[0048] However, in print delivery services, if images of documents to be delivered are simply formed as they are, the images will easily fall apart due to carelessness during delivery, making handling difficult unless separate containers or clips are prepared to hold the images.

[0049] Therefore, in the image forming system 10 according to this embodiment, when a delivery request for an image-formed object from a third party different from the recipient is received, a process is performed in which wrapping paper larger than the size of the document to be delivered is output as a predetermined wrapping recording medium, and predetermined blind pages are inserted into both the front and back of the document, and the delivery request document is output as a single image-formed object on the wrapping paper. The delivery person then wraps the delivery request document using the wrapping paper, and the delivery is completed. By wrapping the document in the wrapping paper, the wrapping paper functions as a pseudo-envelope.

[0050] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, when the image forming device 12 receives a delivery request for an image-formed object from a third party other than the recipient, it outputs a wrapping sheet 50. Then, it adds blindfold sheets 54 before and after the delivery request document 56 on the wrapping sheet 50, and finally outputs an address sheet 52 on which the delivery destination is written. The blindfold sheet 54 forms an image of a predetermined random pattern to prevent the delivery request document 56 from being visible through the blindfold sheet 54. The wrapping sheet 50 is output in a predetermined size that allows for the creation of a predetermined pseudo-envelope. In this embodiment, the address sheet 52 on which the delivery destination is written is the same size as the delivery request document 56. While FIG. 4 illustrates an example in which the address and name of the delivery recipient are written on the address sheet 52 on which the delivery destination is written, information that can identify the delivery destination or the document may be used instead of the address and name. For example, information such as a two-dimensional barcode that can be captured by the deliverer's mobile terminal device 14 and used to identify the delivery destination may be used. Furthermore, the wrapping paper 50 corresponds to an example of a wrapping recording medium, the delivery request document 56 corresponds to an example of a document scheduled for delivery, and the cover paper 54 corresponds to an example of a cover recording medium.

[0051] As a result, as shown in Figure 5, when a worker folds the packaging paper 50 and wraps the delivery request document 56, the packaging paper 50 becomes a pseudo-envelope, making it easier to handle the delivery request document 56.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 6, a masking image may be formed on the wrapping paper 50 and output, and the masking paper 54 may be added only after the delivery request document 56 and output.

[0053] Next, specific processing performed in the image forming system 10 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0054] First, the processing performed by the mobile terminal device 14 or the client computer 15 when a delivery requester operates the mobile terminal device 14 or the client computer 15 to make a delivery request will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing performed by the mobile terminal device 14 or the client computer 15 when a delivery requester makes a delivery request in the image forming system 10 according to this embodiment. Note that the processing in FIG. 7 starts in the case of the mobile terminal device 14 when, for example, a delivery request is issued from an application that provides a print delivery service. In the case of the client computer 15, it starts when, for example, a site that provides a print delivery service is accessed and a delivery request is issued. The processing will be described below as being performed by the mobile terminal device 14.

[0055] In step 100, the CPU 14A displays a predetermined initial screen, and then the process proceeds to step 102. As the predetermined initial screen, for example, a screen for specifying a delivery destination and a document to be delivered is displayed.

[0056] In step 102, the CPU 14A performs input processing and proceeds to step 104. The input processing is a process for accepting input of a delivery destination and a document to be delivered on the initial screen. That is, the CPU 14A accepts the delivery destination entered by the delivery requester and the document to be delivered.

[0057] In step 104, the CPU 14A determines whether a delivery request has been made. This determination is made by determining whether the input process has ended and, for example, whether an operation of a delivery request button or the like provided on an initial screen or the like has been detected. If the determination is negative, the process returns to step 102 to continue the input process, and if the determination is positive, the process proceeds to step 106.

[0058] In step 106, CPU 14A transmits information on the delivery destination and delivery target (target information) to cloud server 16, and ends a series of processes.

[0059] Next, a description will be given of specific processing that is performed by the cloud server 16 when delivery destination and target information is transmitted from the mobile terminal device 14 or the client computer 15. Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing that is performed by the cloud server 16 when delivery destination and target information is transmitted to the cloud server 16 in the image forming system 10 according to this embodiment. The processing in Fig. 8 starts when the delivery destination and target information is transmitted to the cloud server 16 in step 106 described above.

[0060] In step 150, the CPU 16A receives a delivery request and proceeds to step 152. That is, the delivery destination and target information transmitted from the mobile terminal device 14 or client computer 15 are received as delivery information.

[0061] In step 152, the CPU 16A performs a deliverer determination process and proceeds to step 154. In this embodiment, the deliverer determination process involves publishing delivery information so that it can be viewed from the mobile terminal device 14 or the client computer 15, soliciting deliverers, and determining a deliverer. Note that a delivery request may be sent to pre-registered deliverers or companies, and a deliverer may be determined upon obtaining their consent. Also, if no delivery applicant appears during the deliverer determination process and a deliverer cannot be determined, a delivery request may be sent to a pre-contracted company or company.

[0062] In step 154, the CPU 16A notifies the delivery requester of the delivery company selection, and then ends the series of processes.

[0063] Next, we will explain the specific processing that is performed by the mobile terminal device 14 or client computer 15 of the delivery applicant when a delivery person is recruited in the deliverer determination processing of step 152 described above. Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing that is performed by the mobile terminal device 14 or client computer 15 of the delivery applicant when a delivery person is recruited in the image forming system 10 according to this embodiment. Note that the processing in Figure 9 starts, for example, when the delivery applicant operates the mobile terminal device 14 or client computer 15 to make a search request for a delivery request. Furthermore, the following will be explained as processing that is performed by the mobile terminal device 14.

[0064] In step 200, the CPU 14A displays a predetermined delivery acceptance screen, and proceeds to step 202. For example, a list screen or a map screen showing the delivery destination and the like of the delivery request accepted by the cloud server 16 is displayed as the delivery acceptance screen.

[0065] In step 202, the CPU 14A performs a delivery contract process and proceeds to step 204. The delivery contract process involves confirming a delivery request to be accepted from the delivery requests displayed on the delivery reception screen and performing a process to accept the delivery request. When a delivery request to be accepted is decided, information on the subject of the delivery request is received.

[0066] In step 204, the CPU 14A determines whether the delivery contract has been concluded. This determination is made in the delivery contract processing to determine whether the delivery contract has been decided. If the determination is negative, the delivery contract processing continues, and if the determination is positive, the series of processes ends.

[0067] Next, we will explain the specific processing that is performed by the image forming device 12 when the selected deliverer uses the image forming device 12 installed in a convenience store or the like to output information about the delivery target. Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing that is performed by the image forming device 12 of the image forming system 10 according to this embodiment. The processing in Fig. 10 starts, for example, when an instruction to output a delivery request document 56 is given.

[0068] In step 250, CPU 20A accepts delivery information and proceeds to step 252. The acceptance of delivery information accepts a delivery request for an image-formed object from a third party different from the recipient. For example, the delivery request from the third party is accepted by receiving information on the delivery destination and the delivery target from an application pre-installed in the deliverer's mobile terminal device 14. The delivery information may be transmitted from mobile terminal device 14 to image forming device 12 using, for example, short-range wireless communication, or may be transmitted to image forming device 12 via communication line 18.

[0069] In step 252, CPU 20A outputs wrapping paper 50 and proceeds to step 254. As wrapping paper 50, paper of a size equal to or larger than the paper size specified by the information on the delivery object is output.

[0070] In step 254, CPU 20A adds a cover page to the requested document, which is the information to be delivered, and proceeds to step 256. For example, a page forming an image of a predetermined random pattern as a cover page is added before and after the requested document.

[0071] In step 256, CPU 20A outputs the request document with the added blindfold page, and proceeds to step 258. That is, as shown in FIG. 4, blindfold sheets 54 are added before and after delivery request document 56 and then output.

[0072] In step 258, CPU 20A outputs address sheet 52 with the delivery destination written on it, and ends the series of processes. That is, blindfold sheet 54, delivery request document 56, blindfold sheet 54, and address sheet 52 are output in this order onto wrapping paper 50. As a result, the deliverer can fold wrapping paper 50 to enclose delivery request document 56 in wrapping paper 50, making wrapping paper 50 a pseudo-envelope and facilitating handling of delivery request document 56.

[0073] In the above embodiment, the addressing paper 52 is the same size as the delivery request document 56, but this is not limiting. For example, as shown in Fig. 11, the addressing paper 52 may be the same size as the wrapping paper 50, and the addressing paper 52 may be folded together with the wrapping paper 50 to enclose the delivery request document 56.

[0074] The wrapping paper may also be paper with adhesive that can be bonded by applying pressure. For example, as shown in Fig. 12, paper may be used that has areas 60 on each side of the wrapping paper 50 where adhesive that can be bonded by pressure is applied, so that the wrapping paper 50 can be bonded to the address paper 52 when the wrapping paper 50 is folded. Alternatively, paper with release paper on the adhesive areas 60 may be used so that the delivery person can peel off the release paper before starting work.

[0075] Also, even if the address paper 52 is made of paper of the same size as the wrapping paper 50, as shown in Figure 13, an adhesive area 60 may be provided on the address paper 52 so that the address paper 52 and the wrapping paper 50 are adhered together when the wrapping paper 50 and the address paper 52 are folded.

[0076] Here, the procedure for folding the wrapping paper 50 performed by the delivery person will be described. Fig. 14 is a diagram for explaining the procedure for folding the wrapping paper 50. Note that the example in Fig. 14 shows a case where a paper sheet provided with an adhesive area 60 is used as the wrapping paper 50 and the address paper 52 is the same size as the wrapping paper 50. Also, in each of Figs. 14(A) to (E), the left side shows a top view seen from above, and the right side shows a side view of the image-formed product.

[0077] 14(A), the edges of the paper are aligned immediately after being output from the image forming device 12. In this state, the wrapping paper 50 cannot be folded to wrap something.

[0078] The delivery person 62 stands facing the output paper and folds the packaging paper 50. As shown in Fig. 14, the delivery person 62 stands in a position where the aligned edges of the paper are on the left side. Note that the output image-formed object may be moved to a workbench or the like so that the delivery person stands in the position shown in Fig. 14, or the delivery person may stand in the position shown in Fig. 14 with the image-formed object discharged into the image forming device 12.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 14(B), the delivery person 62 folds and presses the lower and right ends of the front side of the wrapping paper 50 and the address paper 52 together.

[0080] Next, the delivery person 62 moves the wrapped small size paper by tilting the entire paper downwards and to the right, as shown in Fig. 14(C). The paper does not spill out from the other side because of the glued portion shown in the gray area in Fig. 14(C).

[0081] Next, the delivery person takes the entire paper, rotates it 180 degrees horizontally, and folds and presses the bottom and right edges together as shown in FIG. 14(D).

[0082] By folding the wrapping paper 50 and the address paper 52 in accordance with the above procedure, the document is wrapped as shown in FIG. 14(E).

[0083] In this embodiment, the delivery person is required to fold the wrapping paper 50 according to the above-described procedure, but there is a high possibility that the delivery person is inexperienced in this task. Therefore, a sheet containing instructions for creating a pseudo-envelope may be output from the image forming device 12. For example, as shown in FIG. 15 , the image forming device 12 may form an image of the folding positions indicated by the dotted lines and the steps (1) to (5) in FIG. 15 on a sheet of paper. Alternatively, the image of FIG. 15 may be formed and output on the wrapping paper 50 or the address sheet 52. Alternatively, information on the procedure for folding the wrapping paper 50 may be transmitted to the delivery person's mobile terminal device 14, allowing the delivery person to confirm the information on the mobile terminal device 14. Alternatively, the procedure for folding the wrapping paper 50 may be displayed on the display of the user interface 22 of the image forming device 12.

[0084] When the image shown in FIG. 15 is formed on the wrapping paper 50 or the address paper 52, the folding positions indicated by the dotted lines in FIG. 15 are fixedly determined depending on the size of the paper.

[0085] However, it is easier to handle the size of the pseudo envelope made by folding the wrapping paper 50 if it is the smallest possible size that matches the size of the document for which the delivery requester has instructed the image formation.

[0086] Furthermore, the wrapping paper 50 that becomes the pseudo-envelope is not as thick as a real envelope, and if it is made of the same quality paper as regular paper, the corners are weak to bending. If the pseudo-envelope and the document that the delivery requester has instructed to be imaged are integrated, the corners become stronger and more resistant to bending.

[0087] Therefore, the folding position may be dynamically determined in accordance with the size and number of sheets (=thickness) of the document for which the delivery requester has instructed image formation, and the line indicating the folding position may be dynamically changed.

[0088] Here, the change position when the line indicating the bending position is dynamically changed will be described. Fig. 16 is a diagram for explaining the change position when the line indicating the bending position is dynamically changed.

[0089] If the sizes of the paper that constitutes the pseudo envelope are ew and eh, for example, if the paper that constitutes the pseudo envelope is A3, ew and eh are as follows: ew=420[mm] eh=297[mm]

[0090] Next, let the size of the document for which the delivery requester has instructed image formation be cw and ch. For example, if the size of the document for which the delivery requester has instructed image formation is A4, cw and ch will be as follows: cw=297[mm] ch=210[mm]

[0091] Furthermore, the thickness of each sheet of paper is 0.09 [mm], and the number of sheets of documents for which the delivery requester has instructed image formation is n.

[0092] In this case, the length from the top end to the folding mark line is eh-ch-0.09×n [mm].

[0093] It is necessary to take care to ensure that the delivery address is not hidden.

[0094] Assuming the size of the area containing the delivery address is 100mm x 50mm, the length from the top edge to the fold line is limited to (eh-50)÷2[mm]. The same applies to the length from the bottom edge to the fold line. Similarly, the length from the left and right ends to the folding lines is ew-cw-0.09×n [mm], with an upper limit of (ew-100)÷2 [mm].

[0095] In the above system, the lines indicating the folding positions can be dynamically changed, but the size of the paper that will be used as the pseudo-envelope cannot be dynamically changed. For example, it is assumed that the size will be fixed at A3. Therefore, if the size of the pseudo-envelope and the size of the document that the delivery requester has instructed to be imaged are significantly different, the effectiveness of preventing soiling will be reduced.

[0096] Therefore, the size of the pseudo envelope may be dynamically selected so that the pseudo envelope and the document that the delivery requester has instructed to be imaged may be integrated.

[0097] Specifically, the paper candidate is one whose length from the top edge to the folding line (eh-ch-0.09 x n [mm]) is 60 [mm] or more, and a paper loading section in which packaging paper 50 is loaded is searched for. If a candidate paper exists, that candidate paper is used. If there are multiple candidates, the smallest candidate is used. Note that 60 [mm] is a value determined taking into consideration ease of folding. If it is too small, folding becomes difficult. Furthermore, when forming an image of the procedure in Figure 15, it will not be possible to form an image of the procedure.

[0098] For example, if the document for which the delivery requester has instructed image formation is 10 sheets of A4 paper, the next sheet of paper becomes a candidate. A3: 297-210-0.09×10=86.1[mm] B3: 364-210-0.09×10=153.1[mm] Although the calculation results are omitted, A2, B2, A1, B1, etc. are also candidates. B4 size is not suitable because the calculation result is smaller than 60 [mm]. B4: 257-210-0.09×10=46.1[mm]

[0099] In the above embodiment, the image forming device 12 is described as forming an image on one side, but this is not limited to this. If the image forming device 12 is capable of forming images on both sides, a concealing image may be formed on the wrapping paper 50 and another concealing image may be formed on the back side of the address paper 52. This eliminates the need for additional concealing paper 54, thereby reducing the number of sheets of paper.

[0100] In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which a predetermined random pattern is formed as a concealing image on the concealing sheet 54, but this is not limiting. For example, instead of forming a concealing image in the image forming device 12, the concealing sheet 54 may be prepared in advance in a paper loading section that supplies paper and output. Furthermore, the concealing sheet 54 is not limited to paper on which a random pattern image is formed, and paper of a color that is difficult for light to transmit may also be used.

[0101] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, a CPU has been described as an example of a processor, but the term "processor" refers to a processor in a broad sense, and includes general-purpose processors (e.g., CPUs, etc.) and dedicated processors (e.g., GPU: Graphics Processing Unit, ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit, FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array, programmable logic device, etc.).

[0102] Furthermore, the operations of the processors in the above embodiments may not only be performed by a single processor, but may also be performed by multiple processors located at physically separate locations working together. Furthermore, the order of the operations of the processors is not limited to the order described in the above embodiments, and may be changed as appropriate.

[0103] The processing performed by image forming apparatus 12 according to the above embodiment may be software-based, hardware-based, or a combination of both. The processing performed by image forming apparatus 12 may be stored as a program on a storage medium and distributed.

[0104] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the above, and it goes without saying that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0105] 10. Image forming system 12 Image forming device 14 Mobile terminal devices 15 client computers 16 Cloud Server 20A CPU 50 Packaging paper 52 Address paper 54 Covering paper 56 documents

Claims

1. a processor, the processor comprising: When a delivery request for an image-formed object from a third party different from the recipient is received, a predetermined recording medium for packaging is output, which is a recording medium of a predetermined size that is larger than the size of the document to be delivered and that can produce a predetermined pseudo-envelope, and which has an adhesive area where adhesive that can be adhered by pressure is applied; a process of outputting the document onto the packaging recording medium; a process of outputting a predetermined procedure for creating a pseudo envelope by folding the packaging recording medium to a display unit or a mobile terminal device of a deliverer; An image forming apparatus that performs the above.

2. The image forming device according to claim 1, wherein the processor inserts predetermined concealing recording media into the delivery request document both before and after the document and outputs the document as a single image formed on the packaging recording medium.

3. The image forming device according to claim 1, wherein the processor forms a predetermined masking image on the packaging recording medium and outputs the image, and inserts the predetermined masking image into the delivery request document after the document and outputs the image on the packaging recording medium as a single image formation.

4. 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the processor forms a predetermined random pattern on a recording medium and outputs the recording medium as the concealing recording medium.

5. 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the processor outputs a recording medium on which a predetermined random pattern has been formed or a recording medium of a predetermined color as the concealing recording medium.

6. 6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processor forms information for identifying the document on a recording medium and further outputs the information on an image formed thereon.

7. 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the processor forms information for identifying the document on one side of the masking recording medium inserted before the document, and forms a predetermined masking image on the other side and outputs the result.

8. 8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the processor further performs processing to form an image of a folded line for creating the pseudo envelope on the packaging recording medium.

9. 9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the processor changes the position of the broken line depending on the size and number of pages of the document.

10. 10. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processor outputs, as the packaging recording medium, a sheet of paper having a size predetermined according to the size of the document.

11. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, an information processing device that receives information on an image formation target of the image forming device and information on a delivery destination of the image-formed object and determines a deliverer; a mobile terminal device carried by the delivery person and receiving information on the image formation target and information on the delivery destination from the information processing device; An image forming system comprising:

12. On the computer, When a delivery request for an image-formed object from a third party different from the recipient is received, a predetermined recording medium for packaging is output, which is a recording medium of a predetermined size that is larger than the size of the document to be delivered and that can produce a predetermined pseudo-envelope, and which has an adhesive area where adhesive that can be adhered by pressure is applied; a process of outputting the document onto the packaging recording medium; a process of outputting a predetermined procedure for creating a pseudo envelope by folding the packaging recording medium to a display unit or a mobile terminal device of a deliverer; An image forming program for executing the above.

Images