Mobile terminal devices, printing service systems, and programs

Abstract

To enable printing without causing a user to issue an instruction to start printing a document file to be printed.SOLUTION: A portable terminal apparatus 40 includes: a registration request unit 411 which issues a request to a printing service server 30 to register a document for storage; a user movement estimation unit 412 which acquires a moving speed and a moving direction of a user by referring to a transition of a current position positioned by a positioning unit 42; a use store prediction unit 413 which predicts a store 2 to be used by the user for printing the registered document by referring to the moving direction of the user; and a start instruction unit 414 which issues an instruction to start printing when a moving time of the user becomes equal to or less than a required printing time of the document. The printing service server 30 has a printing control unit 32 which issues an instruction, in accordance with the printing start instruction, to a multifunction machine 20 installed in the store 2 predicted by the portable terminal apparatus 40 to print the document.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a mobile terminal device, a print service system, and a program. [Background Art]

[0002] Currently, checkout-free unmanned stores that allow users to shop without performing payment have appeared in physical stores. Since no payment is required, users can leave the store directly after finishing shopping. That is, there is no "waiting" time such as queuing at a checkout counter.

[0003] Meanwhile, in recent years, printing services via a network called net print or the like have been provided. In the printing service, a user uploads a document to be printed in advance, and inputs a reservation number issued when the document is uploaded into a multifunction peripheral installed at a store such as a desired convenience store, whereby printing is executed and a printed matter can be obtained.

[0004] When considering applying this printing service to the aforementioned checkout-free unmanned stores, since a user needs to go to the store and operate the multifunction peripheral, "waiting" can occur until the printed matter is output.

[0005] Therefore, in order to prevent "waiting" from occurring before the output of printed matter is completed, conventionally, a technique has been proposed in which the time required for printing is calculated in advance, the travel time for a user to arrive at the installation position of a multifunction peripheral is calculated at predetermined time intervals based on wireless communication between the multifunction peripheral and a mobile terminal carried by the user, and execution of printing is started when the travel time becomes equal to or less than the required printing time (for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior Art Literature] [Patent Literature]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2013-162313 [Summary of the Invention] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] Traditionally, users have been required to specify the image forming apparatus to be used for printing and to issue print instructions to that apparatus in advance.

[0008] The present invention aims to enable printing without requiring the user to issue a print start command for the document file to be printed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The portable terminal device according to the present invention includes a processor, which estimates the direction of movement of the user carrying the device from the transition of the current location, estimates which image forming apparatus the user will use to print the document file from among image forming apparatuses capable of printing the document file to be printed by referring to the direction of movement of the user, and instructs the image forming apparatus to start printing the document file when the user approaches the image forming apparatus to a distance where it is estimated that printing will be completed when the user arrives at the installation location of the image forming apparatus. A mobile terminal device , The processor notifies the user that printing of the document file will start automatically. It is characterized by the following:

[0010] Furthermore, the processor is characterized by allowing the user to specify whether or not to initiate automatic printing of the document file.

[0011] Furthermore, the processor is characterized in that, if an instruction to start automatic printing is specified, it automatically instructs the start of printing the document file when the user approaches within the specified distance.

[0013] Furthermore, the processor is characterized in that, if the user changes the printing settings in response to the notification to the above, it controls the printing of the document file according to the changed settings.

[0014] Furthermore, the processor is characterized in that, if no instruction to start automatic printing has been specified, it will ask the user whether or not to start printing the document file when the user approaches the image forming apparatus to the specified distance.

[0015] Furthermore, the processor acquires installation location information for each image forming apparatus capable of printing the document file, and infers that the image forming apparatus located closest to the user within a predetermined range in the direction of movement from the user's current location is the image forming apparatus the user will use to print the document file.

[0016] The printing service system according to the present invention comprises at least one Mobile The system comprises a mobile terminal device, an image forming apparatus having at least a processor and a user interface, and a service server having a processor that instructs the image forming apparatus to print in response to a print start instruction from the mobile terminal device. The mobile terminal device includes a processor, which estimates the direction of movement of the user carrying the device from the transition of the current location, and estimates which image forming apparatus the user will use to print the document file from among image forming apparatuses capable of printing the document file to be printed, by referring to the direction of movement, and instructs the image forming apparatus to start printing the document file when the user approaches the image forming apparatus to a distance where it is estimated that printing will be completed when the user arrives at the installation location of the image forming apparatus. The processor in the image forming apparatus is characterized in that, from the time printing starts in response to a print command from the service server until it finishes, it restricts the use of the image forming apparatus by users other than the user carrying the mobile terminal device.

[0017] Furthermore, the processor in the image forming apparatus is characterized by restricting operations on the user interface from the time printing starts in response to a print command from the service server until it finishes.

[0018] Furthermore, the processor in the image forming apparatus is characterized by allowing the use of functions that do not utilize printing functions among the multiple functions installed.

[0019] Further, the image forming apparatus further comprises: an imaging means for capturing an image of a user operating the image forming apparatus; an output tray from which a printed matter is output; and a sensor means for detecting an operation of taking out the printed matter from the output tray, wherein a processor included in the image forming apparatus detects, when an operation of taking out the printed matter from the output tray by the other user is detected, outputs a warning message to the User interface, characterized in that

[0020] Further, the processor included in the image forming apparatus cancels the restriction on use of the image forming apparatus when an operation of taking out a printed matter by a user carrying the portable terminal device is detected, characterized in that

[0021] Further, the processor included in the portable terminal device registers a user who can print the document file in the service server in accordance with an instruction from the user, and the processor included in the service server instructs the image forming apparatus to print the document file in response to a print start instruction from the portable terminal device carried by the user who can print the document file, characterized in that

[0022] A program according to the present invention causes a computer to realize: a function of estimating a moving direction of a user carrying the own device from a transition of a current position; a function of estimating the image forming apparatus to be used by the user for printing the document file among image forming apparatuses capable of printing the document file to be printed by referring to the moving direction of the user; a function of instructing the image forming apparatus to start printing the document file when the user approaches the image forming apparatus within a distance estimated to finish printing by the time the user arrives at the installation position of the image forming apparatus, A function to notify the user that printing of the aforementioned document file will start automatically. characterized in that [Advantageous Effects of Invention]

[0023] According to the invention described in claim 1, printing can be performed without requiring the user to issue a print start instruction for a document file to be printed. Further, it is possible to notify the user that printing of the document file is started.

[0024] According to the invention according to claim 2, it is possible to allow a user to select whether to automatically issue an instruction to start printing a document file.

[0025] According to the invention according to claim 3, printing can be instructed without an operation instruction from a user.

[0027] Claim 4 According to the invention as set forth in , the document file can be printed in accordance with setting contents different from the original setting contents.

[0028] Claim 5 According to the invention as set forth in , an instruction to start printing a document file can be issued only after confirmation is obtained from a user.

[0029] Claim 6 According to the invention as set forth in , an image forming apparatus located at a destination a user is heading to can be estimated as the image forming apparatus to be used.

[0030] Claim 7 According to the invention as set forth in , use of the image forming apparatus by other users can be restricted during execution of printing.

[0031] Claim 8 According to the invention as set forth in , it is possible to prevent use of a user interface during execution of printing.

[0032] Claim 9 According to the invention as set forth in , other functions can be allowed to be used while printing is being executed.

[0033] Claim 10 According to the invention as set forth in , taking out of printed matter by other users can be suppressed.

[0034] Claim 11 According to the invention as set forth in , the image forming apparatus can be allowed to be used as normal.

[0035] Claim 12 According to the invention described, it is possible to have someone other than oneself print a document file.

[0036] Claim 13 According to the invention described above, printing can be performed without requiring the user to issue a print start command for the document file to be printed. Furthermore, the user can be notified when printing of the document file is about to begin. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0037] [Figure 1] This is an overall configuration diagram of the printing service system in this embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a hardware configuration diagram of the mobile terminal device in this embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a hardware configuration diagram of the multifunction printer in this embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram showing the printing service system in this embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of the data structure of store-related information in this embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a sequence diagram illustrating the process from when a user registers a print order until they receive the printed document. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of the display of the document registration screen in this embodiment. [Figure 8A] This is a flowchart showing the print control process in this embodiment. [Figure 8B] This is a flowchart following Figure 8A. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of the display of the print start notification screen in this embodiment. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of the display of the settings change screen in this embodiment. [Figure 11] This figure shows an example of the display of the inquiry screen in this embodiment. [Figure 12]This flowchart shows the printing process performed by the multifunction printer in this embodiment. [Figure 13] This figure shows an example of the display of the warning screen in this embodiment. [Figure 14] This figure shows an example of the display on the operation panel of the multifunction printer in this embodiment. [Figure 15] This figure shows an example of the display of the user addition screen in this embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0038] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described based on the drawings.

[0039] Figure 1 is an overall configuration diagram of the printing service system in this embodiment. Figure 1 shows a configuration in which a store management server 10 and a multifunction printer 20 installed in store 2, a printing service server 30 that provides printing services to users, and a portable terminal device 40 carried by the user are connected via a network 4 such as the Internet, either by wired or wireless connection.

[0040] Store 2 is used by customers, in this embodiment, users carrying a mobile terminal device 40. Users enter the store through entrance / exit 6, use the multifunction printer 20, purchase goods, and then exit through entrance / exit 6. Entrance / exit 6 is equipped with a wireless communication device (not shown) that connects to the mobile terminal device 40 wirelessly using the NFC (Near Field Communication) standard when the user holds the mobile terminal device 40 over it. The wireless communication device is connected to the store management server 10 and transmits information read from the wirelessly connected mobile terminal device 40 to the store management server 10. In this embodiment, Store 2 is envisioned as an unmanned store without cash registers where shopping can be done without payment. Of course, if a multifunction printer 20 is installed, it may also be a manned store with cash registers.

[0041] A user may use multiple stores 2, and one store 2 may be used by multiple users. However, the store management server 10 and multifunction printer 20 installed in store 2, as well as the mobile terminal device 40, only need to have the functions described later. Therefore, Figure 1 only shows one store 2 and a mobile terminal device 40 carried by one user.

[0042] Figure 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of the mobile terminal device 40 in this embodiment. The mobile terminal device 40 is a terminal device carried by the user and equipped with a computer. In this embodiment, the mobile terminal device 40 is assumed to be a smartphone, but other mobile terminal devices such as tablet terminals may also be used. The mobile terminal device 40 in this embodiment can be realized with a conventional general-purpose hardware configuration. That is, as shown in Figure 2, the mobile terminal device 40 includes a CPU 401, ROM 402, RAM 403, storage 404 as a storage means for storing documents and various data, a touch panel 405 as a user interface for receiving and displaying user input, GPS (Global Positioning System) 406 as a positioning means, a network interface (IF) 407 as a communication means for communication via network 4, a communication interface 408 for wireless communication using Wi-Fi (registered trademark), a communication interface 409 for short-range wireless communication using Bluetooth (registered trademark), and a communication interface 410 for short-range wireless communication with wireless communication equipment installed at entrance / exit 6.

[0043] Since NFC-compatible wireless communication devices are integrated into entrance / exit 6, the term "entrance / exit 6" may be used when referring to wireless communication devices.

[0044] Figure 3 is a hardware configuration diagram of the multifunction printer 20 in this embodiment. The multifunction printer 20 is a form of image forming apparatus equipped with various functions such as printing, copying, and scanning, and is a device with a built-in computer. As shown in Figure 3, the multifunction printer 20 includes a CPU 201, ROM 202, RAM 203, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 204 as a storage means for storing scanned documents, etc., an operation panel 205 as a user interface that accepts user input and displays information, a scanner 206 that reads documents set by the user and stores them as electronic data in the HDD 204, a printer 207 that prints images on output paper according to instructions from a control program executed by the CPU 201, a network interface (IF) 208 as a communication means for communication via network 4, a communication interface 209 that enables the multifunction printer 20 to function as a wireless communication device by performing short-range wireless communication according to the Bluetooth communication standard, and a camera 210 as a means of taking pictures.

[0045] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the printing service system in this embodiment. The printing service system includes a store management server 10 and a multifunction printer 20 installed in store 2, a printing service server 30, and a portable terminal device 40. Components of each device 10, 20, 30, and 40 that are not used in the description of this embodiment have been omitted from the figure.

[0046] The store management server 10 manages information regarding various equipment such as wireless communication devices and the multifunction printer 20 installed at the entrance 6 of store 2. The store management server 10 is implemented using the hardware configuration of a conventional general-purpose server computer. In this embodiment, the store management server 10 has a user authentication unit 11 and a user behavior analysis unit 12. The user authentication unit 11 performs user authentication based on user identification information (hereinafter, "user ID") read from the mobile terminal device 40 at the entrance 6. The user management database referenced when performing user authentication may be maintained and managed by the print service server 30, or the store management server 10 may maintain the database for registered users of store 2. The user behavior analysis unit 12 analyzes the behavior of users who enter the store from the entrance 6. In this embodiment, the user behavior analysis unit 12 specifically identifies users who intend to use the multifunction printer 20 based on their behavior. Each component 11 to 12 of the store management server 10 is realized by the cooperative operation of the computer that forms the store management server 10 and the program running on the CPU installed in the computer.

[0047] The multifunction printer 20 includes a server linkage unit 21, a function execution unit 22, a display control unit 23, and a control unit 24. The server linkage unit 21 operates in conjunction with the store management server 10. Specifically, the server linkage unit 21 obtains the user IDs of users who have been authenticated by the store management server 10 and who have been certified as users of the multifunction printer 20. The function execution unit 22 executes various functions installed in the multifunction printer 20, including the printing function. The display control unit 23 controls the display of the operation panel 205 based on the display by the control unit 24. The control unit 24 operates in conjunction with each component 21 to 23 to control the overall operation of the multifunction printer 20.

[0048] Each component 21 to 24 in the multifunction printer 20 is realized through the coordinated operation of the computer installed in the multifunction printer 20 and the program running on the CPU installed in the computer.

[0049] The print service server 30 is a server computer used to provide print services to users. The print service server 30 is implemented using the hardware configuration of a conventional general-purpose server computer. In this embodiment, the print service server 30 has a document registration request receiving unit 31, a print control unit 32, and a storage unit 33. The document registration request receiving unit 31 receives document registration requests transmitted from the mobile terminal device 40. The print control unit 32 sends and receives information, such as issuing print instructions to the multifunction printer 20 in response to requests from the mobile terminal device 40, and controls printing in the print service. The storage unit 33 stores at least print information and store-related information. The print information is created in response to a registration request from the mobile terminal device 40 and includes the data file of the electronic document included in the registration request (hereinafter, "document file"), the identification information of the document (hereinafter, "document ID"), the user ID of the user who made the registration request, and information including print setting information such as the number of pages to print, color / black and white, single-sided / double-sided printing, paper size, and the date and time the request was received.

[0050] Figure 5 shows an example of the data structure of store-related information in this embodiment. Store-related information includes information related to store 2 where a multifunction printer 20 capable of printing documents received by the print service server 30 is installed. In this embodiment, store-related information includes store information and multifunction printer information. Store information includes information about the above-mentioned store 2 that can provide printing services in cooperation with the print service server 30. Store information includes identification information "Store ID" for identifying the store 2 and "Location Information" as installation location information to identify the location of the store. In this embodiment, it is preferable to indicate the location of store 2 in terms of longitude and latitude because it is used in conjunction with the positioning information of the GPS 406 of the mobile terminal device 40. Multifunction printer information includes information about the multifunction printer 20 installed in store 2. Multifunction printer information includes identification information "Multifunction printer ID" for identifying the multifunction printer 20 and the "Model" of the multifunction printer 20. Note that store 2 may have multiple multifunction printers 20 installed.

[0051] Each component 31-32 of the print service server 30 is realized through the coordinated operation of the computer forming the print service server 30 and the program running on the CPU installed in the computer. The storage unit 33 is realized by an HDD installed in the print service server 30. Alternatively, RAM or an external storage means may be used via a network.

[0052] The mobile terminal device 40 includes a print application execution unit 41, a positioning unit 42, a display control unit 43, and a storage unit 44. The print application execution unit 41 executes an application for using the print service provided by the print service server 30. The print application execution unit 41 includes a registration request unit 411, a user movement estimation unit 412, a store usage estimation unit 413, a start instruction unit 414, and a print control unit 415. The registration request unit 411 sends a document file to be printed and requests the print service server 30 to register the document to be printed using the print service. The user movement estimation unit 412 estimates the user's direction and speed of movement by referring to the transition of positioning data from the positioning unit 42. The store usage estimation unit 413 estimates the store the user is trying to use based on the user behavior estimated by the user movement estimation unit 412. The start instruction unit 414 instructs the start of printing when the travel time required for the user to arrive at store 2 becomes less than or equal to the estimated time required to print the document registered in the print service server 30 (hereinafter referred to as "printing time"). The print control unit 415 controls the operation related to printing on the mobile terminal device 40.

[0053] The positioning unit 42 works in conjunction with the GPS 406 to obtain the user's current location when the user is moving outside of store 2. Since the user carries the mobile terminal device 40 with them, the user's current location and the current location of the mobile terminal device 40 always coincide. The display control unit 43 controls the display on the touch panel 405. Store-related information obtained from the print service server 30 is stored in the storage unit 44.

[0054] Each component 41 to 43 in the mobile terminal device 40 is realized through the coordinated operation of the computer forming the mobile terminal device 40 and the program running on the CPU 401 installed in the computer. The memory unit 44 is realized by the storage 404 installed in the mobile terminal device 40. Alternatively, RAM 403 or external storage means may be used via a network.

[0055] Furthermore, the program used in this embodiment can be provided not only via communication means, but also stored on a computer-readable recording medium such as a USB memory stick. The program provided via communication means or recording medium is installed on the computer, and various processes are realized by the computer's CPU executing the program sequentially.

[0056] Next, the operation in this embodiment will be described.

[0057] First, the user operates the mobile terminal device 40 to register the document file to be printed with the print service server 30, assuming that the user is outside of store 2 when performing this operation. The process from the user registering the document file to obtaining the printed document will be explained below using the sequence diagram shown in Figure 6. In the following explanation, it will be assumed that only one multifunction printer 20 is installed in store 2, and for the sake of explanation, unless otherwise specified, the location of store 2 will be assumed to be the same as the location of the multifunction printer 20. Also, for the user who has registered the document, using store 2 and using the multifunction printer 20 are considered synonymous.

[0058] The user operates the mobile terminal device 40 to launch the print service application, thereby initiating the print application execution unit 41 to start processing. Once launched, the print application execution unit 41 displays the document registration screen on the touch panel 405 of the mobile terminal device 40.

[0059] Figure 7 shows an example of the document registration screen in this embodiment. The user enters the file name of the document to be printed from the document registration screen. As illustrated in Figure 7, the document registration screen displays a question message 71 asking whether to start printing the document automatically, and a checkbox 72 corresponding to the question message 71. The user specifies whether or not to initiate automatic printing of the document by checking or unchecking the checkbox 72. Therefore, if the user wants to start printing automatically (hereinafter also referred to as "automatic printing"), they check the checkbox 72. The addition of users will be described later.

[0060] After the user specifies the document file and whether or not to enable automatic printing, if the user selects the OK button 74, the registration request unit 411 sends a document registration request to the print service server 30, which includes the user ID of the user of the mobile terminal device 40, the document file, and the document ID as identification information for the document (step 410).

[0061] When the document registration request receiving unit 31 in the print service server 30 receives a document registration request sent from the mobile terminal device 40, it creates print information including the user ID, document ID, and document file contained in the document registration request and saves it in the storage unit 33 (step 310). The print information further includes print setting information and request reception date and time, which are referenced to calculate the date and time the document registration request was received and the printing time, by referring to the attribute information attached to the document file. Note that the document registration to the print service server 30 described above is the same process as job registration processing and does not constitute an instruction to execute a job.

[0062] Once the document file is registered with the print service server 30, the user begins moving towards the store 2 where the multifunction printer 20 they intend to use is located. In this embodiment, walking is assumed as the user's means of transportation, but other means of transportation such as a vehicle may be used as long as the positioning unit 42 can detect the user's current location.

[0063] Next, the print application execution unit 41 requests the transmission of store-related information (step 420). The print control unit 32 in the print service server 30 reads the store-related information registered in the storage unit 33 in response to the request from the mobile terminal device 40 and transmits it to the mobile terminal device 40 (step 320). The print application execution unit 41 stores the store-related information transmitted in response to the transmission request in the storage unit 44 (step 430).

[0064] Furthermore, the print service server 30 may maintain and manage store-related information corresponding to the stores 2 that provide printing services nationwide. Therefore, since it may not be desirable to acquire all store-related information, when the print application execution unit 41 requests the transmission of store-related information, it may, for example, transmit the current location of the mobile terminal device 40, and the print control unit 32 in the print service server 30 may narrow down the store-related information to a predetermined number of stores 2 that are within a predetermined range from the current location of the mobile terminal device 40 or are close to the current location, before transmitting it. Alternatively, the print application execution unit 41 may also transmit the user's means of transportation, causing the print control unit 32 to determine the predetermined range and predetermined number based on the expected range of movement from the means of transportation, thereby instructing the print service server 30 to determine the predetermined range and predetermined number.

[0065] Furthermore, when the user starts moving, the print application execution unit 41 executes print control processing (step 440). The characteristic print control processing in this embodiment will be explained below using the flowcharts shown in Figures 8A and 8B.

[0066] As mentioned above, at the time of registering the document, the user is outside store 2 and walking towards the target store 2. The positioning unit 42 acquires the current location of the moving user (step 421). The acquired current location is stored for calculations such as movement speed.

[0067] Next, the user movement estimation unit 412 estimates the user's movement speed and direction by calculation by analyzing the transition of the current position obtained by the positioning unit 42 (step 422).

[0068] Next, the store usage estimation unit 413 estimates the store 2, i.e., the multifunction printer 20, that the user intends to use, by referring to the user's direction of movement, i.e., the direction the user is traveling. To do this, the store usage estimation unit 413 detects a store 2 that is located in the direction the user is traveling (step 423). Strictly speaking, it is not necessary to limit it to a straight line in the direction of travel; it is necessary to determine the presence or absence of a store 2 within a predetermined range that has a predetermined angle from the direction of travel that the user is assumed to be heading towards. Alternatively, considering the user's speed of movement, the presence or absence of a store 2 may be determined by referring to the travel time and distance from the user's current position. The store usage estimation unit 413 determines the presence or absence of a store 2 by referring to the user's current position, direction of movement and speed of movement, and the store information of the store-related information stored in the storage unit 44. Then, the store usage estimation unit 413 estimates the detected store 2 to be the store 2 that the user intends to use.

[0069] If store 2 is not detected in the user's direction of travel (N in step 424), the print control unit 415 moves the process to step 421 and causes the positioning unit 42 to perform positioning.

[0070] By the way, in step 421, the positioning unit 42 can perform positioning at regular intervals. The longer the interval between positioning measurements, the longer the user's travel distance, making it easier to find multiple stores 2 simultaneously in step 423. On the other hand, the load on the mobile terminal device 40 is reduced. Incidentally, since the stores 2 are thought to be scattered at a certain distance from each other, the positioning unit 42 may perform positioning at desired time intervals, for example, every few minutes, so that one store at a time is detected. Also, if multiple stores 2 are found simultaneously, the positioning unit 42 may refer to the location information of each store 2 and infer that the store 2 closest to the user's current location within a predetermined range from the user's direction of travel is the store 2 the user intends to use. Alternatively, the detected multiple stores 2 may be displayed in a list, and the user may be allowed to select the store 2 to use for printing.

[0071] If store 2 is detected in the direction the user is traveling (Y in step 424), the store usage estimation unit 413 infers that the user has the detected store 2 as their destination and is walking towards it. In this case, the print control unit 415 calculates the printing time (step 425).

[0072] The printing time depends on attribute information such as document size, the number of copies to print, and printing attributes such as color / black and white, as well as the performance of the multifunction printer. Therefore, the print control unit 415 obtains information about the performance of the multifunction printer 20 used for printing by querying the print service server 30, and also obtains information about the document as necessary. The performance of the multifunction printer 20 can be determined from the model of the multifunction printer 20, so the print control unit 415 may obtain the model from the print service server 30 and identify the performance information of the multifunction printer 20 itself, or it may have the print service server 30 obtain the model and send the performance information. Furthermore, the load status and operating status of the multifunction printer 20, such as power saving mode, may be obtained and used in calculating the printing time. By using information about the status of the multifunction printer 20, for example, the time required to recover from power saving mode can be reflected in the printing time, so the printing time can be calculated more accurately.

[0073] Furthermore, the print control unit 415 calculates the travel time from the user's current location to the installation location of the multifunction printer 20 based on the user's current location, direction of movement, and speed of movement, and the location of the multifunction printer 20 (step 426). In this embodiment, for convenience, the location of store 2 is considered to be the installation location of the multifunction printer 20 to calculate the travel time. However, in the case of store 2 with a large site area, the travel time and distance from the location information of store 2 included in the store-related information to the installation location of the multifunction printer 20 may be set in the store-related information, and the travel time may be calculated more accurately by referring to the set information. Note that the processing order of steps 425 and 426 may be reversed.

[0074] Here, if the travel time (indicated by the symbol "AT") is not less than or equal to the sum of the printing time (indicated by the symbol "PT") and the tolerance (indicated by the symbol "SS") (N in step 427), that is, if the travel time is longer than the printing time, then starting to print the document at this point would mean that printing would be completed before the user reaches the multifunction printer 20. Therefore, the process returns to step 421 without starting printing.

[0075] In this embodiment, we decided to return to step 421. Since the user will be walking along the path, the user's direction of travel may change abruptly, for example, at a right angle, when there is a corner. In other words, when the user is not walking towards the desired store 2, there is a possibility that a store 2 that will not be used will be incorrectly detected by the processing in step 423. To correct this, we decided to return to step 421 so that the process can be restarted from the beginning. If the user changes direction at a corner while walking towards the desired store 2, the desired store 2 may no longer be detected, but since the user will eventually be walking towards the desired store 2, the desired store 2 should be detected again. Also, if the user does not change direction, the same store 2 will be detected each time, and eventually the travel time (AT) will be less than or equal to the sum of the printing time (PT) and the tolerance (SS). Note that for the same store 2, the printing time does not change, so the printing time that has been calculated once may be temporarily stored and processed so that it does not need to be recalculated in step 425.

[0076] When the travel time (AT) becomes less than or equal to the sum of the print duration (PT) and the tolerance (SS) (Y in step 427), the user has approached the destination store 2 to a certain extent, and if printing is started at this point, the printing can be completed just as the user arrives at the installation location of the multifunction printer 20. In other words, the user has approached the multifunction printer 20 to a distance where it is estimated that printing will be completed just as the user arrives at the installation location of the multifunction printer 20. At this time, if the user has selected automatic printing from the document registration screen (Y in step 428), the print control unit 415 notifies the user that printing will be started automatically (step 429). In this embodiment, even in the case of automatic selection, the user is notified of the start of printing to obtain final confirmation from the user, but notification is not always necessary. That is, the start instruction unit 414 may automatically instruct the print service server 30 to start printing when the travel time (AT) becomes less than or equal to the sum of the print duration (PT) and the tolerance (SS). Alternatively, only the start of printing may be notified, and the user may not be required to obtain final confirmation. Notification to the user is performed by the print control unit 415 in cooperation with the display control unit 43. Specifically, the display control unit 43 displays a print start notification screen on the touch panel 405 in response to instructions from the print control unit 415.

[0077] Figure 9 shows an example of the print start notification screen in this embodiment. The print start notification screen displays a confirmation message and buttons 76 and 78 for final confirmation of whether or not to proceed with printing. When the print start notification screen is displayed, the user specifies whether or not to start printing by selecting either button 76 or 78.

[0078] By the way, in Figure 9, it is shown as "SS" seconds later. In other words, the tolerance error (SS) in the above explanation is the time that is estimated to be required for the user to press the button after receiving the notification, and is the time that is allowed before pressing the button. The display control unit 43 may count down the "SS" displayed on the print start notification screen according to the time elapsed since the screen was displayed, that is, it may display the remaining time that the user should press the button to finish printing just as they arrive at the installation position of the multifunction printer 20. Also, if the user selects the "Yes" button 76 before the countdown SS reaches 0 seconds, the printing will logically finish earlier by the remaining time, so the print control unit 415 may, in its internal processing, wait for the instruction to start printing after accepting the user's selection of the "Yes" button 76 until the countdown SS reaches 0 seconds.

[0079] As a result of the user's button selection, in other words, the system receives the user's response to request automatic printing (step 430). If the user selects the "Yes" button 76, that is, if they do not wish to change the automatic printing settings set during document registration (N in step 431), the start instruction unit 414 instructs the print service server 30 to start printing, in accordance with the instructions from the print control unit 415 (step 435). This print start instruction to the print service server 30 is also illustrated in Figure 6, and as shown in Figure 6, the start instruction unit 414 includes the document ID and multifunction printer ID of the document to be printed in the print start instruction.

[0080] As shown in Figure 6, when the print control unit 32 in the print service server 30 receives a print start instruction from the mobile terminal device 40, it instructs the multifunction printer 20, identified by the multifunction printer ID, to print (step 330). When instructing the multifunction printer 20 to print, the print control unit 32 retrieves the document file identified by the document ID from the print information and sends it to the multifunction printer 20 along with the user ID of the user who instructed the print (step 330).

[0081] In the multifunction printer 20, the control unit 24 instructs the function execution unit 22 to perform the printing process of the transmitted document file in response to a print command from the print service server 30 (step 210).

[0082] Returning to Figure 8B, if the user selects the "No" button 78 from the print start notification screen, that is, if the user wishes to change the automatic printing settings set during document registration (N in step 431), the display control unit 43 displays the setting change screen on the touch panel 405 in response to instructions from the print control unit 415 (step 432).

[0083] Figure 10 shows an example of the display of the settings change screen in this embodiment. The settings change screen displays a list of settings that can be changed from automatic printing. The user selects the desired change from the list and selects the OK button 88. The print control unit 415 will control the printing of the document according to the changes selected by the user. If the user wants to re-select automatic printing, they select the back button 90.

[0084] If the user selects message 80, "Start printing when the user arrives at the store," from the settings change screen (Y in step 432), the print control unit 415 cancels the automatic printing setting and does not instruct the system to start printing at this time. It then waits until the user arrives at store 2.

[0085] Incidentally, the arrival of a user in store 2 can be detected by holding the mobile terminal device 40 over the entrance / exit 6 of store 2. The system waits until the user arrives in store 2 (N in step 434), and when the user arrives in store 2 (Y in step 434), the start instruction unit 414 instructs the print service server 30 to start printing according to instructions from the print control unit 415 (step 435). The operation of the print service server 30 and the multifunction printer 20 after the print instruction has already been explained, so the explanation is omitted here.

[0086] If the user selects one of the messages 82, 84, or 86 for other setting changes (N in step 432), the print control unit 415 cancels the automatic print setting and does not instruct the system to start printing at this time. The process then returns to step 421.

[0087] Incidentally, if message 82, "Print at another store (specify a store)," is selected, the user is prompted to input information to identify another store 2 from an input screen (not shown). Alternatively, the display control unit 43 may display a list of stores saved in step 430 and allow the user to select one. Then, the print control unit 415 performs the processing from step 425 onwards for the store 2 specified by the user. If message 84, "Print at another store (receive suggestions from the app)," is selected, the name of a recommended store 2 is displayed on a store display screen (not shown). Then, after confirmation by the user, the print control unit 415 performs the processing from step 425 onwards for the recommended store 2. The recommended store 2 may be selected from, for example, the next closest store 2 from the current location, a store 2 with a high-performance multifunction printer 20 installed, or a store 2 with few customers. If message 86, "Do not print this time," is selected, the print control unit 415 returns to step 421 without performing any special processing.

[0088] Incidentally, if the user has not selected automatic printing from the document registration screen (N in step 428), the print control unit 415 will not start printing automatically, but will inform the user that the system is ready to print and will ask whether or not to start printing. To this end, the display control unit 43 will display an inquiry screen on the touch panel 405 in response to instructions from the print control unit 415 and ask the user whether or not to print (step 436).

[0089] Figure 11 shows an example of the display of the inquiry screen in this embodiment. As described above, the inquiry screen is displayed when the user has not selected automatic printing. The inquiry screen displays a message to inform the user that printing is possible and the store 2 to print to, as well as buttons 92 and 94 to allow the user to select whether or not to print.

[0090] If the user wishes to print (Y in step 437), that is, if the user selects the "Yes" button 92, the start instruction unit 414 instructs the print service server 30 to start printing, in accordance with the instructions from the print control unit 415 (step 435). The operation of the print service server 30 and the multifunction device 20 after the print instruction has already been described, so the explanation is omitted here.

[0091] If the user does not wish to print (N in step 437), that is, if the user selects the "No" button 94, the print control unit 415 returns to step 421 without performing the print operation at this time.

[0092] According to this embodiment, as described above, printing can be performed so that it is completed just as the user arrives at the installation location of the multifunction printer 20, without the user having to issue a command to start printing the registered document.

[0093] Incidentally, as described above, the multifunction printer 20 starts printing in response to a print command from the print service server 30. However, in the case of store 2, which is accessible to the general public, visitors can basically use the multifunction printer 20. The person who registered the document with the print service server 30 (hereinafter also referred to as the "registrant") is the user of the mobile terminal device 40, which was outside store 2 in the first place, so the print control is set so that printing is completed when the user arrives at the location where the multifunction printer 20 is installed. However, in reality, it is conceivable that the user may make a detour after starting printing and before arriving at store 2, or that the road may be more winding than expected, and they may not have arrived at store 2 when printing is completed. In this case, there is a possibility that a third party in store 2 may take the printed document.

[0094] Therefore, in this embodiment, when the multifunction printer 20 starts printing in response to a print command, it performs printing processing to prevent unauthorized removal of printed materials and to ensure that legitimate registered users can obtain the printed materials. The printing processing performed by the multifunction printer 20 in this embodiment will be explained below using the flowchart shown in Figure 12.

[0095] As mentioned above, when the control unit 24 receives a print command from the print service server 30, it instructs the function execution unit 22 to start printing (step 211). However, it is expected that the registered user has not yet arrived at store 2 at the time printing starts. If the multifunction printer 20 is used by a customer other than the registered user at this time, an unforeseen situation may occur. Therefore, the control unit 24 restricts the use of the multifunction printer 20. Specifically, it restricts operation from the operation panel 205, thereby preventing panel operation from being accepted (step 212). At this time, the display control unit 23, in response to instructions from the control unit 24, displays a message on the operation panel 205 indicating that operation is currently restricted, thereby informing customers who are trying to use the multifunction printer 20 that operation is restricted.

[0096] By the way, this embodiment assumes that store 2 is a cashier-less, unmanned store. In the case of a cashier-less, unmanned store, users of store 2 hold their portable terminal device 40 over the entrance / exit 6 to undergo user authentication. The user authentication unit 11 performs user authentication based on the user's personal information read from the portable terminal device 40. Users can enter the store after successfully being authenticated by the user authentication unit 11. As briefly explained above, the user authentication process itself can be the same as before, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0097] Although not shown in Figure 1, Store 2 is equipped with multiple surveillance cameras as part of its cashier-less, unmanned store system. The user behavior analysis unit 12 in the store management server 10 constantly monitors user behavior by analyzing the images captured by each surveillance camera. As a result, the store management server 10 can identify users who intend to use the multifunction printer 20 based on the movements of customers visiting the store.

[0098] When the store management server 10 can identify a user who intends to use the multifunction printer 20 (hereinafter also referred to as "user"), it notifies the multifunction printer 20 of that user. The server coordination unit 21 can identify the user of the multifunction printer 20 by receiving the notification from the store management server 10 (step 213). In this embodiment, the user of the multifunction printer 20 is identified in cooperation with the system of the cashierless unmanned store, but for example, the user of the multifunction printer 20 may be identified using the camera 210 of the multifunction printer 20.

[0099] Here, if the user of the multifunction printer 20 is a registered user (Y in step 214), the control unit 24 removes the restrictions on operation of the operation panel 205 because there are no security issues with the registered user, i.e., the user of the mobile terminal device 40, using the multifunction printer 20 (step 215). Basically, printing should be finished by the time the user of the mobile terminal device 40 arrives at the installation location of the multifunction printer 20, but it is conceivable that it may not be finished for some reason (N in step 216), so the next process does not proceed until it is finished. Then, when printing is finished (Y in step 216), the multifunction printer 20 charges the user (step 217). Since store 2 is an unmanned store without a cash register, the multifunction printer 20 charges by using predetermined means without human intervention, such as coordinating with the store management server 10.

[0100] On the other hand, if the user of the multifunction printer 20 is not a registered user (N in step 214), the control unit 24 works in conjunction with the display control unit 23 to control the display on the operation panel 205 (step 208). As part of the display control of the operation panel 205, the display control unit 23 displays, for example, a warning message on the operation panel 205.

[0101] Figure 13 shows an example of the display of the warning screen in this embodiment. The warning screen is a screen for displaying the warning message illustrated in Figure 13 on the operation panel 205. In this embodiment, store 2 is not equipped with a mechanism to physically prevent the removal of printed materials from the output tray from which printed materials are output. However, since the warning message displayed on the operation panel 205 in this embodiment includes the name of the user of the multifunction printer 20, it is possible to inform the user that their identity has been determined. Therefore, it is considered that displaying this warning message on the operation panel 205 will have a deterrent effect against fraudulent activity.

[0102] The removal of printed materials from the output tray may be detected by providing a sensor on the multifunction printer 20. When the sensor detects the removal of printed materials from the output tray, if the customer identified by the store's surveillance camera or the multifunction printer 20's camera 210 is not a registered customer, the display control unit 23 may output a warning message to the operation panel 205.

[0103] Incidentally, while restricting the operation of the multifunction printer 20 might prevent the unauthorized removal of printed materials, it could also be considered inconvenient for customers if all of the multiple functions provided by the multifunction printer 20 are unavailable. For example, it could be argued that there would be no problem allowing non-registered customers to use functions that do not involve printing, in other words, functions that do not generate printed materials and therefore do not require operation of the output tray. Therefore, in this embodiment, some of the functions provided by the multifunction printer 20 are made available.

[0104] Figure 14 shows an example of the display on the operation panel 205 of the multifunction printer 20 in this embodiment. As illustrated in Figure 14, the display control unit 23 displays buttons 96 for executing functions that do not use printing functions such as copying and printing, such as scanning and faxing, as normally selectable. On the other hand, the display control unit 23 displays buttons 98 for executing functions that use printing functions, such as copying and printing, which involve printing and produce printed materials, in a different display format from buttons 96 so that it can be recognized that they cannot be selected. In fact, when button 96 is operated, the control unit 24 permits the execution of the function corresponding to the selected button 96. That is, it executes the function as normally. On the other hand, even if button 98 is operated, the control unit 24 controls it so that the function corresponding to the selected button 96 is not executed.

[0105] The warning message shown in Figure 13 may also be displayed on the control panel 205 in conjunction with buttons 96 and 98 shown in Figure 14.

[0106] The control unit 24 continues to control the display of the operation panel 205 until the registered user finishes printing (N in step 219). When the sensor detects that printing is complete and the registered user has removed the printed document (Y in step 219), the control unit 24 releases the restriction on the operation of the operation panel 205 (step 220). This allows the multifunction printer 20 to be used normally.

[0107] According to this embodiment, printing can be performed even if there are customers in the store who are not registered users, while a warning message can be displayed to prevent customers from illegally taking printed materials from the multifunction printer 20. Furthermore, considering the convenience of customers using the multifunction printer 20, functions that do not utilize the printing function are also available.

[0108] By the way, even if a document is registered with the print service server 30, there are times when you want someone other than the registrant to be able to take the printed document with you, such as when you cannot go and retrieve the printed document yourself, or when you want to add a document to have someone take it with them on their way to a client. Therefore, in this embodiment, a function is provided that allows users other than the user who registered the document with the print service server 30 to start printing the registered document.

[0109] In other words, in the document registration screen shown in Figure 7, when the user checks checkbox 73 and selects the OK button 74, the additional user settings screen is displayed on the touch panel 405.

[0110] Figure 15 shows an example of the display of the user addition screen in this embodiment. The user addition screen displays a list of users who are allowed to print. The users displayed are, for example, those in the same department as the user of the mobile terminal device 40. In this case, the mobile terminal device 40 queries the company system and retrieves a list of employees in the same department extracted by searching a predetermined database such as employee information. The information retrieved includes the name and user ID of each user. When the registrant selects users who can print the document by checking the checkbox 100 corresponding to the users who are allowed to print the document, and then selects the OK button 102, in step 410 shown in Figure 6, the registration request unit 411 sends the user ID, document ID, document file, and the user ID of the selected user to the print service server 30, thereby registering the users who can print the document with the print service server 30.

[0111] In other words, in step 310 shown in Figure 6, when the document registration request receiving unit 31 in the print service server 30 receives a document registration request sent from the mobile terminal device 40, it creates print information including the user ID, document ID, document file, and user ID of the user who can print the document, and stores it in the storage unit 33.

[0112] The subsequent processing can be carried out by performing the process described above. However, since the addition of a user means that there are now multiple users who can print, the process described above will be performed on each of the mobile terminal devices 40 carried by each user.

[0113] For example, suppose two users, namely the user who registered the document (the "registrant" mentioned above) and a user added by the registrant as a user who can print the document (hereinafter referred to as the "additional user"), can both initiate printing of the document, and the registrant wants the additional user to initiate printing.

[0114] In this case, if the registered user is not out, i.e., not moving, they will either not find a printable store 2 (N in step 124), or they will at least select the "No" button 78 on the print start notification screen (Figure 9), and then select the message "I will not print this time" 86 on the settings change screen (Figure 10). On the other hand, the user who adds a print can walk towards the desired store 2 and eventually select the "Yes" button 76 on the print start notification screen (Figure 9) that will be displayed. As a result, the print service server 30 instructs the multifunction printer 20 to print the document in response to the print start command from the portable terminal device 40 carried by the user who adds the print.

[0115] According to this embodiment, the registered user can have other users initiate printing as described above.

[0116] In the above explanation, we have made it possible to add users who can print from the document registration screen, but it is also possible to add users after document registration by displaying the user addition screen (Figure 15) without going through the document registration screen (Figure 7).

[0117] Furthermore, although this embodiment was described using an example where the document is pre-registered for a printing service, it is not necessarily required to pre-register the document. For example, the document file may be sent to the printing service server 30 along with the print start command, or it may be sent directly to the multifunction printer 20.

[0118] In the above embodiment, the term "processor" refers to a processor in a broad sense, and includes general-purpose processors (e.g., CPU: Central Processing Unit, etc.) and dedicated processors (e.g., GPU: Graphics Processing Unit, ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit, FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array, programmable logic device, etc.).

[0119] Furthermore, the operation of the processor in the above embodiments may not be performed by a single processor, but may be performed by multiple processors located in physically separate locations working together. Also, the order of each processor operation is not limited to the order described in the above embodiments, but may be changed as appropriate.

[0120] (Note) (((1))) Equipped with a processor, The aforementioned processor, The direction of movement of the user carrying the device is estimated from the transition of the current location. From among the image forming apparatus capable of printing the document file to be printed, the image forming apparatus to be used by the user to print the document file is inferred by referring to the user's direction of movement. The system instructs the image forming apparatus to begin printing the document file when the user approaches the image forming apparatus to a distance where it is estimated that printing will be completed by the time the user arrives at the installation location of the image forming apparatus. A mobile terminal device characterized by the following features. (((2))) The portable terminal device according to (((1))), characterized in that the processor causes the user to specify whether or not to initiate an automatic printing of the document file. (((3))) The portable terminal device according to (((2))), characterized in that the processor automatically instructs the start of printing of the document file when the user approaches the specified distance, if an instruction to start automatic printing has been specified. (((4))) The portable terminal device according to (((1))), characterized in that the processor notifies the user that printing of the document file will be started automatically. (((5))) The portable terminal device according to (((4))), characterized in that the processor controls the printing of the document file in accordance with the changes made when the user changes the printing settings in response to a notification to the extent described above. (((6))) The portable terminal device according to (((1))), characterized in that, if no instruction to start automatic printing has been specified, the processor asks the user whether or not to start printing the document file when the user approaches the image forming apparatus to the specified distance. (((7))) The aforementioned processor, The installation location information of each image forming apparatus capable of printing the aforementioned document file is acquired. The image forming apparatus located closest to the user within a predetermined range in the direction of movement from the user's current position is presumed to be the image forming apparatus the user will use to print the document file. The mobile terminal device according to (((1))), characterized in that (((8))) At least one mobile terminal device as described in (((1))), An image forming apparatus comprising at least a processor and a user interface, A service server equipped with a processor that instructs the image forming apparatus to print in response to a print start instruction from the mobile terminal device, It has, A printing service system characterized in that the processor of the image forming apparatus restricts the use of the image forming apparatus by users other than the user carrying the mobile terminal device from the time printing starts in response to a print command from the service server until it is completed. (((9))) The printing service system according to (((8))), characterized in that the processor of the image forming apparatus restricts operations on the user interface from the time printing starts in response to a print command from the service server until it is finished. (((10))) The printing service system according to (((8))), characterized in that the processor of the image forming apparatus permits the use of functions that do not utilize the printing function among the multiple functions installed. (((11))) The image forming apparatus further, A shooting means for photographing the user operating the image forming apparatus, The output tray from which printed materials are output, A sensor means for detecting the operation of removing a printed document from the output tray, Equipped with, The printing service system according to (((8))), characterized in that the processor of the image forming apparatus outputs a warning message to the interface when it detects an operation by another user to remove a printed document from the output tray. (((12))) The printing service system according to (((11))), characterized in that the processor of the image forming apparatus releases the restriction on the use of the image forming apparatus when it detects an operation to remove a printed document by a user carrying the mobile terminal device. (((13))) The processor in the aforementioned mobile terminal device registers users who can print the document file with the service server in response to instructions from the user. The processor of the service server instructs the image forming apparatus to print the document file in response to a print start instruction from the mobile terminal device carried by a user capable of printing the document file. The printing service system according to (((8))), characterized in that (((14))) On the computer, A function that estimates the direction of movement of the user carrying the device based on the transition of the current location. A function that predicts which image forming apparatus the user will use to print the document file by referring to the user's direction of movement, from among image forming apparatuses capable of printing the document file to be printed. A function that instructs the image forming apparatus to start printing the document file when the user approaches the image forming apparatus to a distance where it is estimated that printing will be completed by the time the user arrives at the installation location of the image forming apparatus. A program to achieve this.

[0121] According to the invention described in (((1))), printing can be performed without requiring the user to issue a print start command for the document file to be printed. According to the invention described in (((2))), the user can choose whether or not to automatically issue an instruction to start printing a document file. According to the invention described in (((3))), printing can be instructed without any operational instructions from the user. According to the invention described in (((4))), the user can be notified that printing of the document file is about to begin. According to the invention described in (((5))), it is possible to print a document file according to settings different from the initial settings. According to the invention described in (((6))), the printing of the document file can be instructed to start only after confirmation from the user. According to the invention described in (((7))), the image forming apparatus that the user is heading towards can be inferred to be the image forming apparatus to be used. According to the invention described in ((8)), it is possible to restrict the use of the image forming apparatus by other users while printing is in progress. According to the invention described in (((9))), it is possible to prevent the user interface from being used while printing is in progress. According to the invention described in (((10))), other functions can be used while printing is being performed. According to the invention described in (((11))), it is possible to prevent other users from removing printed materials. According to the invention described in (((12))), the image forming apparatus can be used in the normal manner. According to the invention described in (((13))), it is possible to have someone other than oneself print a document file. According to the invention described in (((14))), printing can be performed without requiring the user to issue a print start command for the document file to be printed. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0122] 2 Stores, 4 Network, 6 Entrances / Exits, 10 Store Management Server, 11 User Authentication Unit, 12 User Behavior Analysis Unit, 20 Multifunction Printer, 21 Server Linkage Unit, 22 Function Execution Unit, 23, 43 Display Control Unit, 24 Control Unit, 30 Print Service Server, 31 Document Registration Request Receiving Unit, 32, 415 Print Control Unit, 33, 44 Storage Unit, 40 Mobile Terminal Device, 41 Print Application Execution Unit, 42 Positioning Unit, 201, 401 CPU, 202, 402 ROM, 203, 403 RAM, 204 HDD (Hard Disk Drive), 205 Operation Panel, 206 Scanner, 207 Printer, 208, 407 Network Interface (IF), 209, 408, 409, 410 Communication Interface, 210 Camera, 404 Storage, 405 Touch Panel, 406 GPS, 411 Registration request unit, 412 User movement estimation unit, 413 Store usage estimation unit, 414 Start instruction unit.

Claims

1. Equipped with a processor, The aforementioned processor, The direction of movement of the user carrying the device is estimated from the transition of the current location. From among the image forming apparatus capable of printing the document file to be printed, the image forming apparatus to be used by the user for printing the document file is inferred by referring to the user's direction of movement. The system instructs the image forming apparatus to begin printing the document file when the user approaches the image forming apparatus to a distance where it is estimated that printing will be completed by the time the user arrives at the installation location of the image forming apparatus. A mobile terminal device, The portable terminal device is characterized in that the processor notifies the user that printing of the document file will be started automatically.

2. The portable terminal device according to claim 1, characterized in that the processor causes the user to specify whether or not to initiate an automatic printing of the document file.

3. The portable terminal device according to claim 2, characterized in that, if an instruction to start automatic printing is specified, the processor automatically instructs the start of printing the document file when the user approaches within the specified distance.

4. The portable terminal device according to claim 1, characterized in that the processor controls the printing of the document file in accordance with the changed settings when the user changes the printing settings in response to a notification to the extent described above.

5. The portable terminal device according to claim 1, characterized in that, if no instruction to start automatic printing has been specified, the processor asks the user whether or not to start printing the document file when the user approaches the image forming apparatus to the specified distance.

6. The aforementioned processor, The installation location information of each image forming apparatus capable of printing the aforementioned document file is acquired. The image forming apparatus located closest to the user within a predetermined range in the direction of movement from the user's current position is presumed to be the image forming apparatus the user will use to print the document file. The mobile terminal device according to feature 1.

7. At least one mobile terminal device, An image forming apparatus comprising at least a processor and a user interface, A service server equipped with a processor that instructs the image forming apparatus to print in response to a print start instruction from the mobile terminal device, It has, The aforementioned mobile terminal device, Equipped with a processor, The processor included in the aforementioned mobile terminal device is The direction of movement of the user carrying the device is estimated from the transition of the current location. From among the image forming apparatus capable of printing the document file to be printed, the image forming apparatus to be used by the user for printing the document file is inferred by referring to the user's direction of movement. When the user approaches the image forming apparatus to a distance where it is estimated that printing will be completed by the time the user arrives at the installation location of the image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus is instructed to start printing the document file. A printing service system characterized in that the processor of the image forming apparatus restricts the use of the image forming apparatus by users other than the user carrying the mobile terminal device from the time printing starts in response to a print command from the service server until it is completed.

8. The printing service system according to claim 7, characterized in that the processor of the image forming apparatus restricts operations on the user interface from the time printing starts in response to a print command from the service server until it is finished.

9. The printing service system according to claim 7, characterized in that the processor of the image forming apparatus permits the use of functions that do not utilize the printing function among the multiple functions installed.

10. The image forming apparatus further, A means for photographing the user operating the image forming apparatus, The output tray from which printed materials are output, A sensor means for detecting the operation of removing a printed document from the output tray, Equipped with, The printing service system according to claim 7, characterized in that the processor of the image forming apparatus outputs a warning message to the user interface when it detects an operation by another user to remove a printed document from the output tray.

11. The printing service system according to claim 10, characterized in that the processor of the image forming apparatus releases the restriction on the use of the image forming apparatus when it detects an operation to remove a printed document by a user carrying the mobile terminal device.

12. The processor in the aforementioned mobile terminal device registers users who can print the document file with the service server in response to instructions from the user. The processor of the service server instructs the image forming apparatus to print the document file in response to a print start instruction from the mobile terminal device carried by a user capable of printing the document file. The printing service system according to feature 7.

13. On the computer, A function that estimates the direction of movement of the user carrying the device based on the transition of the current location. A function that predicts which image forming apparatus the user will use to print the document file by referring to the user's direction of movement, from among image forming apparatuses capable of printing the document file to be printed. A function that instructs the image forming apparatus to start printing the document file when the user approaches the image forming apparatus to a distance where it is estimated that printing will be completed by the time the user arrives at the installation location of the image forming apparatus. A function to notify the user that printing of the aforementioned document file will start automatically. A program to achieve this.

Images