Print service system, print service restriction method, and program

Abstract

To provide a print service system which can cause a manager to set a print use condition for print data.SOLUTION: A print service system comprises: a first terminal; and a server device, wherein the server device comprises: a print data acceptance unit which accepts print data from the first terminal; a print use condition requesting unit which displays a picture which allows input of a print use condition for the print data on the first terminal; and a print use condition registration unit which links the print data with the print use condition to be registered.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[[Technical Field]]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a print service system, a print service restriction method, and a program. [[Background Art]]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a technique in which a storage period is set on the server side for an image uploaded to an image server, a non-display period is further provided between the expiration of the storage period and the deletion of the image, no access request for the image from a user terminal is responded to during the non-display period, and the image is deleted when the non-display period expires. [[Prior Art Documents]] [[Patent Documents]]

[0003] [[Patent Document 1]] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2007-310711 [[Summary of the Invention]] [[Problem to be Solved by the Invention]]

[0004] In a network print service, an administrator uploads print data to a server device, and provides a printed matter of the uploaded print data to a user. Here, in the network print service, there are cases where it is desirable to impart rarity to the print data by restricting print usage conditions for the print data.

[0005] In the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1, a storage period and a non-display period are set on the server side. Therefore, when providing a network print service to a user using the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1, an administrator cannot manage the print usage conditions for the print data. Accordingly, an object of one aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a print service system, a print service restriction method, and a program that allow an administrator to set print usage conditions for print data. [[Means for Solving the Problem]]

[0006] A print service system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first terminal and a server device, the server device comprising: a print data receiving unit that receives print data from the first terminal; a print usage condition request unit that displays a screen on the first terminal that allows input of print usage conditions for the print data; and a print usage condition registration unit that registers the print data and the print usage conditions in association.

[0007] A print service restriction method according to one form of the present disclosure includes the steps of: receiving print data from a first terminal; displaying a screen on the first terminal that allows input of print usage conditions for the print data; and registering the print data and the print usage conditions in association.

[0008] A program according to one form of this disclosure causes a computer to execute the following functions: a function to receive print data from a first terminal; a function to display a screen on the first terminal that allows input of print usage conditions for the print data; and a function to register the print data and the print usage conditions in association. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a print service system. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the first terminal. [Figure 3] This is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the second terminal. [Figure 4] This block diagram shows an example of a server device configuration. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of print usage information. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of print reservation information. [Figure 7] This is a block diagram showing an example of a multifunction printer configuration. [Figure 8]This flowchart shows an example of the process for registering print usage conditions. [Figure 9] This flowchart shows an example of the process for modifying print usage conditions. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of a screen for entering print usage conditions. [Figure 11] This flowchart shows an example of how the process of registering print reservation conditions works. [Figure 12] This diagram shows an example of a screen that allows users to select the print data to be reserved for printing. [Figure 13] This figure shows an example of a screen where print reservation conditions can be entered. [Figure 14] This flowchart shows an example of the process related to executing a print job. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] (First Embodiment) The first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 14. In the drawings, the same or similar elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0011] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of the print service system 100. The print service system 100 includes a first terminal 101, a second terminal 102, a server device 103, and a multifunction printer 104. The server device 103 is connected to the first terminal 101, the second terminal 102, and the multifunction printer 104 via a network. The network can be the Internet, a LAN (Local Area Network), etc.

[0012] The first terminal 101 is a terminal device used by a first user 105. For example, the first user 105 is an administrator of print data 110. The first terminal 101 is a PC (Personal Computer), a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or the like. The first terminal 101 transmits the print data 110, printed matter information 111, and print usage conditions 112 for the print data 110 to a server device 103. For example, the print data 110 is content data such as image data. The printed matter information 111 indicates the type of printed matter on which the print data 110 is to be printed, and the number of printed copies. The number of printed copies indicates the number of sheets of printed matter on which the print data 110 is printed in one print request for the print data 110.

[0013] The print usage conditions 112 include a provision location, a provision time zone, and the provision number of the print data 110. The provision location is a location where the print data 110 can be printed. For example, the provision location is a store. The provision time zone is a time zone in which the print data 110 can be printed. The provision number is the number of times the print data 110 can be printed. Furthermore, the print usage conditions 112 may include a provision date. The provision date is a date on which the print data 110 can be printed.

[0014] The second terminal 102 is a terminal device used by a second user 106 who performs a print reservation operation. The second terminal 102 is a PC, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or the like. When the second terminal 102 receives a print reservation operation, the second terminal 102 transmits print reservation conditions 113 input through the print reservation operation to the server device 103. The print reservation operation is an operation for inputting the print reservation conditions 113 including a reservation location and a reservation time zone. The reservation location is a location where the print data 110 is to be printed. The reservation time zone is a time zone in which the print data 110 is to be printed. Furthermore, the print reservation conditions may include a reservation date. The reservation date is a date on which the print data 110 is to be printed.

[0015] The server device 103 manages the print data 110 and the printed matter information 111. Furthermore, the server device 103 associates and manages the print data 110 and the print usage conditions 112.

[0016] Furthermore, when the print reservation condition 113 satisfies the print usage condition 112, the server device 103 transmits authentication information 114 to the second terminal 102. Then, the server device 103 manages the print data 110, the print reservation condition 113, and the authentication information 114 in association with each other.

[0017] In addition, the server device 103 collates authentication information 115 transmitted from the multifunction peripheral 104 with the authentication information 114. Specifically, the server device 103 authenticates the authentication information 115, and transmits the print data 110 to the multifunction peripheral 104 when the print reservation condition 113 is satisfied.

[0018] The multifunction peripheral 104 is an information processing device installed at a providing location and capable of printing the print data 110 transmitted from the server device 103.

[0019] In the print service system 100, only when the print usage condition 112 received by the server device 103 from the first terminal 101 is satisfied, and the print reservation condition 113 received from the second terminal 102 is satisfied, the multifunction peripheral 104 outputs a printed matter of the print data 110 transmitted from the server device 103. Therefore, the print service system 100 can restrict the location, date, and time zone for printing the print data 110.

[0020] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the first terminal 101. The first terminal 101 includes a communication unit 201, a display unit 202, an operation unit 203, a storage unit 204, and a control unit 205.

[0021] The communication unit 201 is an interface connected to a network.

[0022] The display unit 202 displays information to be presented to the first user 105. Specifically, the display unit 202 displays a screen that allows the user to select print data 110, and a screen that allows the user to input print usage conditions 112, etc. For example, the display unit 202 is composed of a liquid crystal panel, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) panel, etc.

[0023] The control unit 203 accepts operations from the first user 105. For example, the control unit 203 is composed of a touch panel, mouse, keyboard, etc.

[0024] The storage unit 204 is a recording medium capable of storing various data, programs, etc. For example, the storage unit 204 is composed of an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), semiconductor memory, etc.

[0025] The control unit 205 executes various processes according to the programs and data stored in the storage unit 204. For example, the control unit 205 is composed of a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Based on the operation by the first user 105 received by the operation unit 203, the control unit 205 displays a screen on the display unit 202 that allows the selection of print data 110. Then, the control unit 205 transmits the selected print data 110 to the server device 103.

[0026] Furthermore, when the control unit 205 receives instructions from the server device 103, it displays a screen on the display unit 202 that allows the user to input the print usage conditions 112 based on the instructions received from the server device 103. The control unit 205 then transmits the input print usage conditions 112 to the server device 103.

[0027] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the second terminal 102. The second terminal 102 comprises a communication unit 301, a display unit 302, an operation unit 303, a storage unit 304, and a control unit 305.

[0028] The communication unit 301 is an interface for connecting to the network.

[0029] The display unit 302 displays information to be presented to the second user 106. Specifically, the display unit 302 displays a screen that allows input of print reservation conditions 113, a screen showing authentication information 114 notified from the server device 103, and so on. For example, the display unit 202 is composed of a liquid crystal panel, an organic EL panel, and the like.

[0030] The control unit 303 accepts operations from the second user 106. For example, the control unit 303 is composed of a touch panel, mouse, keyboard, etc.

[0031] The storage unit 304 is a recording medium capable of storing various data, programs, etc. For example, the storage unit 304 is composed of an HDD, SSD, semiconductor memory, etc.

[0032] The control unit 305 executes various processes according to the programs and data stored in the storage unit 304. For example, the control unit 305 is composed of a processor such as a CPU.

[0033] Based on the operation of the second user 106 received by the operation unit 303, the control unit 305 displays a screen on the display unit 302 that allows input of print reservation conditions 113. Then, the control unit 305 transmits the input print reservation conditions 113 to the server device 103.

[0034] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the server device 103. The server device 103 comprises a communication unit 401, a storage unit 402, and a control unit 403.

[0035] The communication unit 401 is an interface for connecting to the network.

[0036] The storage unit 402 is a recording medium capable of recording various data, programs, etc. For example, the storage unit 402 is composed of an HDD, SSD, semiconductor memory, etc. The storage unit 402 stores the print database 404, print usage information 405 (see Figure 5), and print reservation information 406 (see Figure 6). Furthermore, the storage unit 402 stores the identification information of the first user 105. For example, the identification information of the first user 105 is the login name of the first user 105. The print database 404 stores print data 110 and print document information 111. The print usage information 405 registers the identification information of the print data 110 and the print usage conditions 112 linked together. The print reservation information 406 registers the identification information of the print data 110 and the print reservation conditions 113 linked together.

[0037] The control unit 403 executes various processes according to the programs and data stored in the storage unit 402. For example, the control unit 403 is composed of a processor such as a CPU. The control unit 403 includes a print data receiving unit 411, a print usage condition request unit 412, a print usage condition registration unit 413, a print reservation condition receiving unit 414, a reservation unit 415, an authentication unit 416, and a print data transmission unit 417.

[0038] The print data receiving unit 411 receives print data 110 from the first terminal 101. Furthermore, the print data receiving unit 411 receives print information 111 related to the received print data 110. Then, the print data receiving unit 411 stores the print data 110 and the print information 111 in the print database 404.

[0039] The print usage conditions request unit 412 displays a screen on the first terminal 101 that allows input of print usage conditions 112 for the print data 110.

[0040] The print usage conditions registration unit 413 links the print data 110 and the print usage conditions 112 and registers them together. Specifically, if the number of items provided in the print usage conditions 112 is less than or equal to the number of items provided based on the printing time for the print data, the print usage conditions registration unit 413 links the print data 110 and the print usage conditions 112 and registers them in the print usage information 405. On the other hand, if the number of items provided in the print usage conditions 112 exceeds the number of items provided based on the printing time for the print data 110, the print usage conditions registration unit 413 does not link the print data 110 and the print usage conditions 112 and register them together.

[0041] The print reservation condition reception unit 414 receives the print reservation conditions 113 for the print data 110 from the second terminal 102.

[0042] The reservation unit 415 accepts a print reservation if the print reservation conditions 113 satisfy the print usage conditions 112. For the print reservation conditions 113 to satisfy the print usage conditions 112, the reservation location included in the print reservation conditions is included in the service location included in the print usage conditions 112, and the reservation time slot included in the print reservation conditions 113 is included in the service time slot included in the print usage conditions 112.

[0043] When the reservation unit 415 accepts a print reservation, it links the print reservation conditions 113, the print data 110, and the authentication information 114. Specifically, when the reservation unit 415 accepts a print reservation, it links the identification information of the print data 110, the print reservation conditions 113, and the authentication information 114 and registers them in the print reservation information 406.

[0044] The authentication unit 416 authenticates the authentication information 115 transmitted from the multifunction printer 104 by comparing it with the authentication information 114 associated with the print data 110.

[0045] The print data transmission unit 417 transmits print data 110 to the multifunction device 104 if the authentication information 115 transmitted from the multifunction device 104 is authenticated and the print reservation conditions 112 are met.

[0046] Figure 5 shows an example of print usage information 405. Print usage information 405 shows the content ID, provision date, provision location, provision time, and number of copies provided in association with each other. The content ID is the identification information of the print data 110 stored in the print database 404. The provision date, provision location, provision time, and number of copies provided, as shown by the print usage information 405, refer to the provision date, provision location, provision time, and number of copies provided that are included in the print usage conditions 112.

[0047] The print usage information 405 illustrated in Figure 5 shows the print data 110, which has identification information as A, B, C, and D, linked to the print usage conditions 112. For example, the print usage information 405 illustrated in Figure 5 shows that for the print data 110, which has identification information as A, B, C, and D, it is possible to provide up to 25 copies at store A between 9:00 and 9:59 on July 26, 2022.

[0048] Figure 6 shows an example of print reservation information 406. Print reservation information 406 associates the content ID, reservation date, reservation location, and reservation time slot. The reservation date, reservation location, and reservation time slot indicated by print reservation information 406 refer to the reservation date, reservation location, and reservation time slot included in the print reservation condition 113.

[0049] The print reservation information 406 illustrated in Figure 6 shows the print data 110 with identification information ABCD, the print reservation conditions 113, the user ID, and the password linked together. The user ID and password pair represents the authentication information 114.

[0050] For example, the print reservation information 406 illustrated in Figure 6 indicates that a printout of print data 110, which has the identification information ABCD, is reserved to be printed at store A from 9:00 to 9:59 on July 26, 2022, and that the authentication information 114 is represented by a combination of a user ID, userxyz, and a password, abcdEFG.

[0051] Figure 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the multifunction printer 104. The multifunction printer 104 comprises a communication unit 701, a display unit 702, an operation unit 703, a storage unit 704, a control unit 705, and a printing unit 707.

[0052] The communication unit 701 is an interface for connecting to the network.

[0053] The display unit 702 displays information to be presented to the user of the multifunction printer 104. For example, the display unit 702 is composed of an LCD panel, an organic EL panel, or the like.

[0054] The control unit 703 accepts user operations for the multifunction printer 104. Specifically, the control unit 703 accepts operations such as inputting authentication information 115 and requesting print data 110. For example, the control unit 703 is composed of a touch panel, mouse, keyboard, etc.

[0055] The storage unit 704 is a recording medium capable of storing various data, programs, etc. For example, the storage unit 704 is composed of an HDD, SSD, semiconductor memory, etc.

[0056] The control unit 705 performs various processes according to the programs and data stored in the storage unit 704. For example, the control unit 705 is composed of a processor such as a CPU. When the multifunction printer 104 receives print data 110 from the server device 103, the control unit 705 performs the process of printing the print data 110 with the printing unit 707 and outputting a printed copy of the print data 110.

[0057] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the process for registering print usage conditions 112.

[0058] In step S801, the print data receiving unit 411 determines whether or not the first user 105 has logged in via the first terminal 101. For example, suppose the operation unit 203 of the first terminal 101 accepts an operation to enter the login name of the first user 105. In that case, the print data receiving unit 411 compares the entered login name of the first user 105 with the identification information of the first user 105 stored in the storage unit 402. If the print data receiving unit 411 authenticates the entered login name of the first user 105, it determines that the first user 105 has logged in via the first terminal 101. On the other hand, if the print data receiving unit 411 does not authenticate the entered login name of the first user 105, it determines that the first user 105 has not logged in via the first terminal 101.

[0059] If the first user 105 is not logged in via the first terminal 101 in step S801, the control unit 403 returns the process to step S801. On the other hand, if the first user 105 is logged in via the first terminal 101 in step S801, the print data receiving unit 411 determines in step S802 whether or not it has received the print data 110 and the print information 111 from the first terminal 101.

[0060] For example, when a first user 105 logs in via the first terminal 101, the print data receiving unit 411 displays a screen on the first terminal 101 that allows the user to input print data 110. When the screen that allows the user to input print data 110 is displayed on the display unit 202, the first user 105 uses the operation unit 203 to select the print data 110 and the print information 111 and upload them. When the operation unit 203 receives the operation by the first user 105 to upload the print data 110, the control unit 205 sends the selected print data 110 and the selected print information 111 to the server device 103. The print data receiving unit 411 then receives the print data 110 and the print information 111 by receiving the print data 110 sent from the first terminal 101.

[0061] If the print data receiving unit 411 has not received the print data 110 and the print information 111 from the first terminal 101 in step S802, the control unit 403 returns the process to step S802. On the other hand, if the print data receiving unit 411 has received the print data 110 and the print information 111 from the first terminal 101 in step S802, the print data receiving unit 411 stores the print data 110 in the print database 404 in step S803.

[0062] In step S804, the print usage conditions request unit 412 displays a screen 1001 (see Figure 10) on the first terminal 101 that allows the input of print usage conditions 112.

[0063] In step S805, the print usage conditions request unit 412 determines whether or not the print usage conditions 112 have been entered. For example, if the first user 105 sees screen 1001 displayed on the display unit 202, the first user 105 uses the operation unit 203 to input the print usage conditions 112. Specifically, the first user 105 uses the operation unit 203 to input the delivery location, delivery date, delivery time slot, and number of print data 110. For example, the delivery location includes the store where the multifunction printer 104 is installed.

[0064] When the operation unit 203 receives an operation from the first user 105 to input the print usage conditions 112, the control unit 205 transmits the input print usage conditions 112 to the server device 103. When the print usage conditions request unit 412 receives the print usage conditions 112 transmitted from the first terminal 101, it determines that the print usage conditions 112 have been input.

[0065] If no print usage conditions 112 are entered in step S805, the control unit 403 returns the process to step S805. On the other hand, if print usage conditions 112 are entered in step S805, the print usage conditions registration unit 413 determines in step S806 whether the number of items provided included in the entered print usage conditions 112 exceeds the limit number of items provided, which is determined based on the printing time for the print data 110. The printing time for the print data 110 is determined based on the data size of the print data 110, the processing time according to the type and number of prints of the print material indicated by the print material information 111, the time the user operates the multifunction printer 104, etc. The printing time for the print data 110 includes the time T1 for the multifunction printer 104 to download the print data from the server device 103, the processing time T2 for the multifunction printer 104 to print the print data 110 onto the print material, the time T3 for the user to operate the multifunction printer 104, etc.

[0066] For example, suppose the type of printed material indicated by the printed material information 111 is a photograph, and the number of prints indicated by the printed material information 111 is 2. Here, suppose the processing time to print one photograph is 15 seconds. In this case, suppose the time T1 to download the print data for 2 photographs is 15 seconds, the processing time T2 to print on 2 photographs is 30 seconds (= 15 seconds × 2 photographs), and the time T3 for the user to operate the multifunction printer 104 is 15 seconds. In this case, the printing time for the multifunction printer 104 to print the print data 110 on 2 photographs is 60 seconds (= time T1 + processing time T2 + time T3). And suppose the time T4 required for the user of the multifunction printer 104 to change is 60 seconds. In this case, when the multifunction printer 104 prints the print data 110 on 2 photographs, the hourly limit N1 is 30 (= 3600 seconds / (time T1 + processing time T2 + time T3 + time T4)).

[0067] Here, let's assume that there are 5 locations included in the print usage conditions 112. Furthermore, let's assume that the number of days indicated by the provision date included in the print usage conditions 112 is 5 days, and the provision time included in the print usage conditions 112 is from 10:00 to 18:00 every day. In that case, the total time T5 during which print data 110 can be provided for the provision locations, provision dates, and provision time included in the print usage conditions 112 is 200 hours (= 5 days × 8 hours × 5 locations). Therefore, the number of provision limits N2 for the total time T5 for the provision locations, provision dates, and provision time included in the print usage conditions 112 is 6000 (= number of provision limits per hour N1 × total time T5).

[0068] Therefore, the print usage conditions registration unit 413 determines that the number of items provided in the print usage conditions 112 exceeds the hourly provision limit N1, or that the total number of items provided in the print usage conditions 112 exceeds the provision limit N2, in which case it exceeds the provision limit determined based on the printing time for the print data 110.

[0069] In step S806, if the number of items provided in the print usage conditions 112 exceeds the limit number of items provided, the print usage conditions registration unit 413 notifies the first terminal 101 that the print usage conditions 112 will not be registered. Specifically, in step S806, if it is determined that the number of items provided in the print usage conditions 112 exceeds the limit number of items provided, which is determined based on the printing time for the print data 110, the print usage conditions registration unit 413 displays a warning screen on the first terminal 101 in step S807.

[0070] For example, if the hourly limit N1 is 30 orders, and the number of orders included in the print usage conditions 112 exceeds 30, the warning screen will include a message such as, "The number of orders entered exceeds the limit. Please limit it to 30 or less." The first user 105 can see the warning screen displayed on the display unit 202 of the first terminal 101 and recognize that the number of orders entered for the print data 110 cannot be printed. This prevents the server device 103 from specifying an order number that makes it impossible to provide printed copies of the print data 110. As a result, the server device 103 can control the flow of customers who want printed copies of the print data 110 to the store or other location where the orders are placed. Therefore, the server device 103 can avoid the store or other location becoming overcrowded with customers who want printed copies of the print data 110 and can smoothly provide printed copies of the print data 110 to customers.

[0071] Furthermore, the warning screen may also display the hourly limit N1 and the total time limit N2 over the entire time period T5. This allows the first user 105 to input a number of servings on screen 1001 that is less than or equal to the hourly limit N1 and less than or equal to the total time limit N2 over the entire time period T5.

[0072] Furthermore, screen 1001 may display the hourly limit N1 and the total time limit N2, depending on the entered service location, service date, and service time. In this case, the first user 105 can enter a number of services on screen 1001 that is less than or equal to the hourly limit N1 and less than or equal to the total time limit N2.

[0073] Meanwhile, in step S808, the print usage conditions registration unit 413 associates the print usage conditions 112 entered in step S805 with the print data 110 received in step S802 and registers them. Specifically, the print usage conditions registration unit 413 associates the identification information of the received print data 110 with the entered print usage conditions 112 and registers them in the print usage information 405. This allows the print usage conditions registration unit 413 to associate the print data 110 with the printable location, the printable date, the printable time slot, and the number of copies to be provided. In other words, the print service system 100 can have the first user 105 set the print usage conditions 113 of the print data 110.

[0074] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the process for modifying the print usage conditions 112. At the time the process in step S901 is executed, the print usage information 405 is assumed to have the print usage conditions 112 linked to the print data 110 registered.

[0075] In step S901, the print usage conditions request unit 412 determines whether the modified print usage conditions 112 have been entered into the first terminal 101. If the print usage conditions request unit 412 receives the print usage conditions 112 transmitted from the first terminal 101, it determines that the modified print usage conditions 112 have been entered into the first terminal 101.

[0076] If the modified print usage conditions 112 in step S901 are not entered into the first terminal 101, the control unit 403 proceeds to step S905. On the other hand, if the modified print usage conditions 112 in step S901 are entered into the first terminal 101, the control unit 403 proceeds to step S902.

[0077] In step S902, the print usage conditions registration unit 413 determines whether the number of services provided in the modified print usage conditions 112 exceeds the service limit. Specifically, the print usage conditions registration unit 413 determines that the modified print usage conditions 113 is inappropriate if the number of services provided in the modified print usage conditions 112 exceeds the service limit N1 per hour or exceeds the service limit N2 for the total time T5. On the other hand, the print usage conditions registration unit 413 determines that the modified print usage conditions 113 is appropriate if the number of services provided in the modified print usage conditions 113 is less than or equal to the service limit N1 per hour and less than or equal to the service limit N2 for the total time T5. The service limit N2 for the total time T5 is newly calculated according to the service location, service date, and service time included in the modified print usage conditions 113.

[0078] If the modified print usage conditions 113 in step S902 are not appropriate, the print usage conditions registration unit 413 displays a warning screen on the first terminal 101 in step S903. The process in step S903 is the same as step S807 illustrated in Figure 8, so a detailed explanation is omitted. Then, the control unit 403 returns the process to step S901.

[0079] On the other hand, if the print usage conditions 113 modified in step S902 are appropriate, the print usage conditions registration unit 413 in step S904 associates the modified print usage conditions 112 with the print data 110 and registers them. The process in step S904 is the same as step S808 illustrated in Figure 8, so a detailed explanation is omitted. Then, the control unit 403 moves the process to step S905.

[0080] In step S905, the print usage conditions registration unit 413 determines whether the operation unit 203 of the first terminal 101 has received a termination operation for the screen 1001. If the operation unit 203 of the first terminal does not receive a termination operation in step S905, the control unit 403 returns to step S905. On the other hand, if the operation unit 203 of the first terminal 101 has received a termination operation in step S905, the control unit 403 terminates the process of modifying the print usage conditions 112.

[0081] Figure 10 shows an example of screen 1001. Screen 1001 allows input of the number of servings for the time periods from 9:00 to 11:59 and from 13:00 to 15:59 at locations A, B, and C on the date July 26, 2022. On screen 1001, it is possible to input the number of servings for each 60-minute interval at each serving location of A, B, and C.

[0082] For example, the first user 105 uses the operation unit 203 to input that the number of deliveries for store C during the time periods from 9:00 to 11:59 and from 13:00 to 15:59 is 0. In this case, the print usage conditions 112 include the delivery location being store C, the delivery time periods from 9:00 to 11:59 and from 13:00 to 15:59, and the number of deliveries being 0. Therefore, the print data 110 will not be provided for the delivery time periods from 9:00 to 11:59 and from 13:00 to 15:59 at the delivery location being store C.

[0083] Furthermore, screen 1001 indicates that for stores A and B, a number of deliveries of 15 or more is entered for the time periods from 9:00 to 11:59 and from 13:00 to 15:59. As a result, printed copies of the print data 110 are provided at stores A and B during the time periods from 9:00 to 11:59 and from 13:00 to 15:59. Therefore, customers who want printed copies of the print data 110 will visit stores A and B instead of store C. Thus, the print service system 100 can provide stores A and B with value that store C does not have, namely the provision of printed copies of the print data 110.

[0084] Furthermore, suppose that in stores A and B, the time slots from 11:00 to 11:59 and from 15:00 to 15:59 are busier than other time slots. In that case, the first user 105 uses the operation unit 203 to input fewer servings for the time slots from 11:00 to 11:59 and from 15:00 to 15:59 than for other time slots. For example, on screen 1001, the number of servings entered for the time slots from 11:00 to 11:59 and from 15:00 to 15:59 is 15. On the other hand, the number of servings entered for the time slots from 9:00 to 10:59 and from 13:00 to 14:59 is 25. As a result, the print service system 100 can prevent customers who want to print the print data 110 from flooding into stores A and B during peak hours.

[0085] Figure 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the process for registering print reservation conditions 113. It is assumed that at the time the control unit 403 starts the process of step S1101, the print usage information 405 is registered with the identification information of the print data 110 and the print usage conditions 112 linked together. Furthermore, it is assumed that at the time the control unit 403 starts the process of step S1101, the identification information of the second user 106 is stored in the storage unit 402 as a user who can register print reservation conditions 112. For example, the identification information of the second user 106 is the login name assigned to the second user 106.

[0086] In step S1101, the print reservation condition receiving unit 414 determines whether or not the second user 106 has logged in via the second terminal 102. For example, suppose the operation unit 303 of the second terminal 102 accepts an operation to enter the login name of the second user 106. In that case, the print reservation condition receiving unit 414 compares the entered login name of the second user 106 with the identification information of the second user 106 stored in the storage unit 402. If the print reservation condition receiving unit 414 authenticates the entered login name of the second user 106, it determines that the second user 106 has logged in via the second terminal 102. On the other hand, if the print reservation condition receiving unit 414 does not authenticate the entered login name of the second user 106, it determines that the second user 106 has not logged in via the second terminal 102.

[0087] If the second user 106 is not logged in via the second terminal 102 in step S1101, the control unit 403 returns the process to step S1101.

[0088] On the other hand, if a second user 106 logs in via the second terminal 102 in step S1101, the print reservation condition receiving unit 414 determines in step S1102 whether or not the print data 110 to be reserved has been selected. For example, if a second user 106 logs in via the second terminal 102, the print reservation condition receiving unit 414 displays a screen 1201 (see Figure 12) on the second terminal 102 that allows the user to select the print data 110 to be reserved. Screen 1201 displays the identification information of the print data 110 linked to the print usage conditions 112 registered in the print usage information 405. For example, the identification information of the print data 110 is the content ID registered in the print usage information 405. If multiple print data 110s are linked to the print usage conditions 112, the identification information of the multiple print data 110s is displayed on screen 1201.

[0089] When the operation unit 303 receives an operation to select identification information shown on the screen 1201, the control unit 305 transmits the selected identification information to the server device 103. The print reservation condition reception unit 414 then determines that the print data 110 containing the received identification information has been selected as the print data 110 to be reserved.

[0090] If no print data 110 to be reserved is selected in step S1102, the control unit 403 returns to step S1102. On the other hand, if print data 110 to be reserved is selected in step S1102, the control unit 403 proceeds to step S1103.

[0091] In step S1103, the print reservation condition receiving unit 414 displays screens 1301a to 1301e (see Figure 13) on the second terminal 102, which allow input of the print reservation conditions 113. Specifically, the second user 106 uses the operation unit 303 to input the print reservation conditions 113, which include the reserved location where the print data 110 will be printed and the reserved time slot where the print data 110 will be printed.

[0092] In step S1104, the print reservation condition receiving unit 414 determines whether or not the print reservation condition 113 has been entered. If the operation unit 303 receives an operation to enter the print reservation condition 113, the control unit 305 transmits the entered print reservation condition 113 to the server device 103. When the print reservation condition receiving unit 414 receives the print reservation condition 113 transmitted from the first terminal 101, it determines that the print usage condition 112 has been entered.

[0093] If no print reservation conditions 113 are entered in step S1104, the control unit 403 returns the process to step S1104. On the other hand, if print reservation conditions 113 are entered in step S1104, in step S1105 the reservation unit 415 determines whether the print reservation conditions 113 entered in step S1104 are registered in the print usage information 405 and satisfy the print usage conditions 112 associated with the print data 110 selected in step S1102. For print reservation conditions 113 to satisfy print usage conditions 112, the reservation location included in print reservation conditions 113 is included in the service location included in print usage conditions 112, and the reservation time slot included in print reservation conditions 113 is included in the service time slot included in print usage conditions 112.

[0094] Furthermore, the print usage conditions 112 further include the delivery date, and the print reservation conditions further include the reservation date. In that case, for the print reservation conditions 113 to satisfy the print usage conditions 112, the reservation location included in the print reservation conditions 113 is included in the delivery location included in the print usage conditions 112, the reservation date included in the print reservation conditions 113 is the same as the delivery date included in the print usage conditions 112, and the reservation time slot included in the print reservation conditions 113 is included in the delivery time slot included in the print usage conditions 112.

[0095] In step S1105, if the input print reservation conditions 113 do not satisfy the print usage conditions 112, the print reservation conditions reception unit 414 notifies the second terminal 102 in step S1106 that the print reservation will not be accepted. For example, the print reservation conditions reception unit 414 displays a screen on the second terminal 102 that includes a message indicating that the print reservation will not be accepted. The print reservation conditions reception unit 414 does not issue authentication information if the input print reservation conditions 113 do not satisfy the print usage conditions 112. The control unit 403 then terminates the process of registering the print reservation conditions 113.

[0096] On the other hand, in step S1105, if the input print reservation conditions 113 satisfy the print usage conditions 112, the print reservation condition receiving unit 414 accepts the print reservation and issues authentication information 114 in step S1107. For example, the authentication information 114 is represented by a password, a QR code (registered trademark), identification information of the print data 110, identification information of the second user 106 who entered the print reservation conditions 113, identification information of the second terminal 102 which is the source of the print reservation conditions 113, biometric information of the second user 106 who entered the print reservation conditions 113, etc. Alternatively, for example, the authentication information 114 may be represented by a combination of the second user 106's identification information and a password.

[0097] In step S1108, the reservation unit 415 associates the authentication information 114 issued in step S1107 and the print reservation conditions 113 entered in step S1104 with the print data 110 to be reserved. Specifically, the reservation unit 415 associates the identification information of the print data 110 to be reserved, the issued authentication information 114, and the entered print reservation information and registers them in the print reservation information 406. This allows the reservation unit 415 to associate the print data 110 with the location where the print data 110 will be printed, the date on which the print data 110 will be printed, the time period on which the print data 110 will be printed, and the authentication information 114.

[0098] In step S1109, the reservation unit 415 notifies the second terminal 102 of the authentication information 114. The control unit 305 displays a screen showing the notified authentication information 114 on the display unit 302. This allows the second terminal 102 to allow the second user to view the authentication information 114.

[0099] Figure 12 shows an example of screen 1201. Screen 1201 indicates that ABCD content can be selected as the print data 110 to be reserved for printing. If the second user 106 wants to print the print data 110 which contains ABCD content, they use the operation unit 303 to select the ABCD content included in screen 1201 and press the OK button.

[0100] Figure 13 shows an example of screens 1301a to 1301e for print data 110 selected for print reservation on screen 1201 as illustrated in Figure 12.

[0101] Screen 1301a includes a button 1302 for searching for a service location included in the print usage conditions 112 linked to the print data 110 to be reserved, and a button 1303 for searching for a service time slot included in the print usage conditions 112. When the operation unit 303 receives an operation to select button 1302, the control unit 305 notifies the server device 103 that button 1302 has been selected. The print reservation condition reception unit 414 displays screen 1301c on the second terminal 102. On the other hand, when the operation unit 303 receives an operation to select button 1303, the control unit 305 notifies the server device 103 that button 1303 has been selected. The print reservation condition reception unit 414 then displays screen 1301b on the second terminal 102.

[0102] Screen 1301b includes a list 1304 for selecting a reservation time slot. For example, list 1304 shows the service locations and service time slots included in the print usage conditions 112. In list 1304, time slots other than those included in the print usage conditions 112 cannot be selected. Furthermore, in list 1304, time slots for which the total number of reservations has reached the number of available slots cannot be selected. This allows the print reservation condition reception unit 414 to allow the second user 106 to select an available reservation time slot. When the operation unit 303 receives an operation to select and confirm the reservation date, reservation location, and reservation time slot, the control unit 305 notifies the server device 103 of the print reservation conditions 113, including the reservation date, reservation location, and reservation time slot.

[0103] Furthermore, if multiple second users 106 consecutively input print reservation conditions 113 that include the same reservation date, the same reservation location, and the same reservation time slot, the total number of prints to be reserved may reach the number of available prints. In that case, for print reservations made by at least one of the multiple second users 106, the print reservation conditions 113 will not satisfy the print usage conditions 112. Therefore, in step S1105 illustrated in Figure 11, the print reservation condition receiving unit 414 determines whether the input print reservation conditions 113 satisfy the print usage conditions 112. If the print reservation conditions 113 entered in step S1105 illustrated in Figure 11 do not satisfy the print usage conditions 112, in step S1106, the print reservation condition receiving unit 414 notifies the second terminal 102 that the print reservation will not be accepted.

[0104] On the other hand, if the print reservation conditions 113 entered in step S1105 as illustrated in Figure 11 satisfy the print usage conditions 112, the print reservation condition receiving unit 414 links the notified print reservation conditions 113 to the print data 110 to be reserved and registers them in the print reservation information 406. The print reservation condition receiving unit 414 then displays screen 1301e on the second terminal 102.

[0105] Screen 1301c contains a list 1305 for selecting a reservation location. For example, list 1305 shows the locations included in the print usage conditions 112. For example, if the locations included in the print usage conditions 112 are store A and store B, then list 1305 shows store A and store B as selectable reservation locations. This allows the print reservation condition reception unit 414 to allow the second user 106 to select a reservation location from the locations included in the print usage conditions 112. When the operation unit 303 accepts and confirms the selection of a reservation location, the control unit 305 notifies the server device 103 of the selected reservation location. The print reservation condition reception unit 414 then displays screen 1301e on the second terminal 102.

[0106] Screen 1301d includes a list 1306 for selecting a reservation time slot. For example, list 1306 shows the delivery location selected on screen 1301c and the delivery time slots included in the print usage conditions 112 that include the delivery location selected on screen 1301c. In list 1306, as with list 1304, time slots other than those included in the print usage conditions 112 and linked to the delivery location selected on screen 1301c cannot be selected. This allows the print reservation condition reception unit 414 to have the second user 106 select a reservation time slot from the delivery time slots included in the print usage conditions 112.

[0107] When the operation unit 303 receives an operation to select and confirm a reservation date and reservation time slot, the control unit 305 notifies the server device 103 of the print reservation conditions 113, including the reservation date and reservation time slot. If the print reservation conditions 113 satisfy the print usage conditions 112, the print reservation condition receiving unit 414 links the print reservation conditions 113, including the reservation date selected on screen 1301d, the reservation location selected on screen 1301d, and the reservation time slot selected on screen 1301d, to the print data 110 to be reserved and registers them in the print reservation information 406. Then, the print reservation condition receiving unit 414 displays screen 1301e on the second terminal 102.

[0108] Screen 1301e displays the authentication information 114. The authentication information 114 displayed on screen 1301e consists of a user ID, userxyz, and a password, abcdEFG. When screen 1301e is displayed on the second terminal 102, the second user 106 can see the authentication information 114 necessary to print the print data 110.

[0109] Furthermore, for example, the print reservation condition reception unit 414 can display authentication information 114, indicated by a QR code, on the second terminal 102. Alternatively, for example, the print reservation condition reception unit 414 may display an email screen containing a QR code showing the authentication information 114 on the second terminal 102. The print reservation condition reception unit 414 only needs to be able to make the authentication information 114 visible to the second user 106, and the details of the method for making the authentication information 114 visible to the second user 106 are not relevant.

[0110] Figure 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the process related to printing. At the time the control unit 403 starts processing in step S1401, the print reservation information 406 is assumed to have the identification information of the print data 110 and the print reservation conditions 113 linked and registered. Furthermore, it is assumed that the multifunction printer 104 is installed at the reservation location included in the print reservation conditions 113.

[0111] The second user 106 performs operations on the multifunction printer 104 at the specified reserved location on the specified reserved date and time. Specifically, the second user 106 uses the operation unit 703 to input authentication information 115.

[0112] Then, in step S1401, the authentication unit 416 determines whether or not authentication information 115 has been transmitted from the multifunction printer 104. For example, suppose the authentication information 115 is represented by a combination of the identification information of the second user 106 who entered the print reservation conditions 113 and a password. In that case, when the operation unit 703 receives an operation to input the identification information of the second user 106 and a password, the control unit 705 transmits the authentication information 115, which indicates the combination of the entered identification information of the second user 106 and the entered password, to the server device 103.

[0113] If authentication information 115 is transmitted from the multifunction printer 104 in step S1401, the authentication unit 416 returns the process to step S1401. Alternatively, if authentication information 115 is transmitted from the multifunction printer 104 in step S1401, the authentication unit 416 determines in step S1402 whether or not the authentication information 115 can be authenticated. Specifically, the authentication unit 416 authenticates the authentication information 115 transmitted from the multifunction printer 104 by comparing it with the authentication information 114 associated with the print data 110. If the authentication information 115 transmitted from the multifunction printer 104 matches the authentication information 114 associated with the print data 110, the authentication information 115 transmitted from the multifunction printer 104 is authenticated. On the other hand, if the authentication information 115 sent from the multifunction printer 104 does not match the authentication information 114 associated with the print data 110, the authentication information 115 sent from the multifunction printer 104 will not be authenticated.

[0114] If the authentication unit 416 does not authenticate the authentication information 115 transmitted from the multifunction printer 104 in step S1402, the control unit 403 proceeds to step S1404. On the other hand, if the authentication unit 416 authenticates the authentication information 115 transmitted from the multifunction printer 104 in step S1402, the control unit 403 proceeds to step S1403.

[0115] In step S1403, the authentication unit 416 determines whether the print reservation conditions 113 associated with the authentication information 115 authenticated in step S1402 are met. If the authentication information 115 is authenticated, then the authentication information 115 is the authentication information 114 associated with the print data 110. Therefore, the authentication unit 416 determines whether the print reservation conditions 113 associated with the authentication information 114 are met. For example, the print reservation conditions 113 are met if the location where the multifunction printer 104 is installed is included in the reservation location, and the time period in which the authentication information 115 was transmitted is included in the reservation time period.

[0116] Furthermore, for example, suppose that the print reservation condition 113 linked to the authentication information 114 includes the reservation location, reservation date, and reservation time slot. In that case, if the location where the multifunction printer 104, which is the source of the authentication information 115, is installed is the reservation location included in the print reservation condition 113 linked to the authentication information 114, and the date and time when the authentication information 115 was transmitted are the reservation date and reservation time slot included in the print reservation condition 113, the authentication unit 416 determines that the print reservation condition 113 linked to the authentication information 114 is satisfied.

[0117] If the print reservation conditions 113 associated with the authentication information 115 are not met in step S1403, the authentication unit 416 notifies the multifunction printer 104 in step S1404 that printing is not possible.

[0118] On the other hand, if the print reservation conditions 113 associated with the authentication information 115 are met in step S1403, the print data transmission unit 417 transmits the print data 110 associated with the authenticated 115 to the multifunction printer 104 in step S1405. Specifically, the print data transmission unit 417 transmits the print data 110 associated with the authentication information 114, which is the same as the authenticated authentication information 115, to the multifunction printer 104. Then, when the multifunction printer 104 receives the print data 110 from the server device 103, it prints the print data 110.

[0119] As described above, the print service system 100 can provide the print data 110 to the second user 106 who has made a reservation, at the location, date, and time specified by the first user 105. Therefore, the print service system 100 ensures that the second user 106 who has made a reservation can reliably obtain the print data 110. Furthermore, the print service system 100 can restrict the locations, dates, and time periods in which the print data 110 can be printed. As a result, the print service system 100 can control the influx of customers who want prints of the print data 110 to the service location, such as a store. Therefore, the print service system 100 can avoid overcrowding at the service location, such as a store, and smoothly provide prints of the print data 110 to customers.

[0120] The processes performed in the above embodiments are not limited to the processing modes exemplified in each embodiment. The functional blocks described above may be implemented using either logic circuits (hardware) formed on an integrated circuit or software using a CPU. The processes performed in the above embodiments may be executed on multiple computers. For example, some of the processes performed in each functional block of the control unit 403 of the server device 103 may be performed on other computers, or all of the processes may be shared and executed on multiple computers.

[0121] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and may be replaced with configurations substantially identical to those shown in the embodiments, configurations that produce the same effects, or configurations that can achieve the same objectives. This disclosure also includes embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments. Furthermore, new technical features can be formed by combining the technical means disclosed in each embodiment. [Explanation of symbols]

[0122] 100 Print service system, 101 First terminal, 102 Second terminal, 103 Server device, 104 Multifunction printer, 105 First user, 106 Second user, 110 Print data, 111 Print information, 114 Authentication information, 115 Authentication information, 201 Communication unit, 202 Display unit, 203 Operation unit, 204 Storage unit, 205 Control unit, 301 Communication unit, 302 Display unit, 303 Operation unit, 304 Storage unit, 305 Control unit, 401 Communication unit, 402 Storage unit, 403 Control unit, 404 Print database, 405 Print usage information, 406 Print reservation information, 411 Print data reception unit, 412 Print usage condition request unit, 413 Print usage condition registration unit, 414 Print reservation condition reception unit, 415 Reservation unit, 416 Authentication unit, 417 Print data transmission unit, 701 Communication unit, 702 Display unit, 703 Operation unit, 704 Storage unit, 705 Control unit, 707 Printing unit, 1001 Screen, 1201 Screen, 1301a~1301e Screens, 1302 Button, 1303 Button, 1304 List, 1305 List, 1306 List

Claims

1. Including the first terminal and the server device, The server device is A print data receiving unit that receives print data from the first terminal, A print usage condition request unit that displays a screen on the first terminal that allows input of print usage conditions for the aforementioned print data, A print usage conditions registration unit that links the print data and the print usage conditions and registers them together, Equipped with, Including a second terminal, The server device is A print reservation condition receiving unit that receives print reservation conditions for the print data from the second terminal, If the print reservation conditions are met, the reservation department accepts the print reservation, Furthermore, The aforementioned printing usage conditions include the location where the print data can be printed, the time period during which the print data can be printed, and the number of print data items provided. The print reservation conditions include the reserved location where the print data will be printed and the reserved time slot where the print data will be printed. Print service system.

2. The aforementioned print reservation condition acceptance unit includes issuing authentication information. The print service system according to claim 1.

3. When the reservation unit accepts the print reservation, it links the print reservation conditions, the print data, and the authentication information. The print service system according to claim 2.

4. The print reservation condition acceptance unit will not issue the authentication information if the print reservation conditions do not meet the print usage conditions. The print service system according to claim 2.

5. For the print reservation conditions to satisfy the print usage conditions, the reservation location is included in the service location and the reservation time slot is included in the service time slot. The print service system according to claim 1.

6. The print usage conditions registration unit will not register the print data and the print usage conditions if the number of items to be provided exceeds the limit determined based on the printing time for the print data. The print service system according to claim 1.

7. The print usage conditions registration unit notifies the first terminal that it will not register the print usage conditions if the number of items to be provided exceeds the number of items to be provided. The print service system according to claim 6.

8. Including multifunction printers, The server device is An authentication unit authenticates the authentication information transmitted from the multifunction device by comparing the authentication information transmitted from the multifunction device with the authentication information linked to the print data. A print data transmission unit transmits the print data to the multifunction device when the authentication information transmitted from the multifunction device is authenticated and the print reservation conditions are met. To further enhance The print service system according to claim 3.

9. The aforementioned locations include stores. The print service system according to claim 1.

10. The aforementioned authentication information includes a password. The print service system according to claim 8.

11. A computer that controls the server device, The process of receiving print data from the first terminal, A step of displaying a screen on the first terminal that allows input of printing conditions for the aforementioned print data, A step of registering the aforementioned print data and the aforementioned print usage conditions in association, A step of receiving print reservation conditions for the print data from the second terminal, If the aforementioned print reservation conditions are met, the process of accepting the print reservation is performed. Execute, The aforementioned printing usage conditions include the location where the print data can be printed, the time period during which the print data can be printed, and the number of print data items provided. The print reservation conditions include the reserved location where the print data will be printed and the reserved time slot where the print data will be printed. How to restrict print services.

12. On the computer, The function to receive print data from the first terminal, A function to display a screen on the first terminal that allows input of printing conditions for the aforementioned print data, A function to register the aforementioned print data and the aforementioned print usage conditions in association, A function to accept print reservation conditions for the aforementioned print data from the second terminal, If the aforementioned print reservation conditions are met, the function accepts the print reservation, Make it run, The aforementioned printing usage conditions include the location where the print data can be printed, the time period during which the print data can be printed, and the number of print data items provided. The print reservation conditions include the reserved location where the print data will be printed and the reserved time slot where the print data will be printed. program.

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