Program, schedule management method, and schedule management device

Abstract

This invention more easily and appropriately manages jobs that cause a printing device 102 to perform printing. This program causes a server 12, which is a computer, to manage print jobs. The program causes the server 12 to perform: a prediction value acquisition process for acquiring, for a plurality of jobs, a time prediction value and an ink consumption amount prediction value for each job; a schedule display process for displaying information related to the plurality of jobs on a screen in a schedule format; and a job order change process for receiving from the user an instruction to change the order of the jobs for the plurality of jobs to be displayed in the schedule format, and rearranging the order of the jobs on the basis of the instruction from the user. In the schedule display process, the jobs are displayed on the screen arranged in time series on the basis of the time prediction value for each job, and at least information based on at least the ink consumption amount prediction value is displayed on the screen in association with the job.

Description

Program, schedule management method, and schedule management device

[0001] The present invention relates to a program, a schedule management method, and a schedule management device.

[0002] Printing devices such as inkjet printers have been widely used. When a printing device is made to print, the operation of the printing device is controlled by processing print jobs using a computer or the like. Also, methods for managing an execution schedule that determines the order in which jobs are processed are known (see, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-124994).

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-177363

[0004] Printing devices, such as industrial inkjet printers, may operate continuously for long periods of time to print a large number of jobs. The operating hours (operational time) of a printing device may be limited depending on the business hours of the business using the printing device or the convenience of the user. Therefore, there has been a demand for easier and more appropriate management of jobs to be printed by a printing device. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a program, a schedule management method, and a schedule management device that can solve the above-mentioned problems.

[0005] The inventors of the present application have conducted extensive research into methods for managing print jobs more easily and appropriately. They have conceived of a method for displaying multiple jobs to be processed in a schedule format on the screen of a user-operated computer, and rearranging the order of the jobs based on the user's instructions. This configuration allows the timing of job processing to be easily and appropriately adjusted in accordance with the operating hours of the printing device. The inventors have also conceived of a method for acquiring a time prediction value, which is a prediction of the time required to print based on a job, and displaying the jobs in a schedule format based on the time prediction value. This configuration allows for more accurate display of jobs in a schedule format.

[0006] Furthermore, when printing multiple jobs, it may be necessary to perform maintenance on the printing device from time to time. The timing of such maintenance may vary depending on the content of the print job. For example, when a printing device is operated continuously for an extended period of time, consumables such as ink need to be replenished as needed. When replenishing ink in a printing device, the user may need to replace an ink container, for example. The amount of ink consumed during printing typically varies depending on the image being printed. For this reason, it is preferable to replenish ink as needed when the ink level is low, rather than periodically at a set time.

[0007] Therefore, the inventors of the present application have conceived a method for displaying jobs in a schedule format by further acquiring a predicted ink consumption value, which is a predicted value of the amount of ink consumed (used) when printing based on the job using a printing device, and associating it with the job and displaying information based on the predicted ink consumption value on the screen. This configuration makes it easier and more appropriate to select an order that takes ink consumption into consideration when rearranging jobs, etc. This also makes it possible to manage print jobs by taking into account the timing of maintenance that requires ink replenishment, etc.

[0008]

[0010] The present invention provides a program for causing a computer to manage jobs to be printed by a printing device, the program comprising: a process for acquiring a predicted time value that is a predicted value of the time required for printing based on the jobs on the printing device and a predicted ink consumption value that is a predicted value of the amount of ink to be consumed; a process for acquiring the predicted time value and the predicted ink consumption value for each of the jobs; a schedule display process for displaying information related to the multiple jobs on a screen in a schedule format that shows the timing of processing each of the jobs in chronological order; and a job order change process for accepting an instruction from a user to change the order of any of the multiple jobs displayed in the schedule format and rearranging the order of the jobs based on the user's instruction; and a program for causing the computer to display the multiple jobs on the screen in chronological order based on the predicted time value for each of the jobs and information based on the acquired predicted ink consumption value.

[0009] With this configuration, in the schedule display process, jobs are arranged based on the predicted time values, allowing jobs to be displayed in schedule format with high accuracy. Furthermore, in the job order change process, the order of jobs can be rearranged based on user instructions, allowing job schedules to be easily changed. Furthermore, in the schedule display process, information based on the predicted ink consumption values ​​is displayed on the screen in association with jobs, allowing the predicted ink consumption values ​​in the printing device to be easily understood in association with the job processing schedule. This also makes it easier to change the schedule, taking into account the timing of maintenance such as ink replenishment. Therefore, with this configuration, jobs to be printed by the printing device can be managed more easily and appropriately.

[0010] In this configuration, displaying job-related information on the screen in a schedule format can be considered to mean, for example, displaying the timing of printing corresponding to a job over time. Furthermore, in the schedule display process, for each of multiple jobs, information related to that job is displayed on the screen. In the schedule display process, information related to multiple jobs may be displayed on the screen in association with the multiple jobs. Furthermore, in this configuration, if a computer that performs job reordering or other processing is defined as a sequence processing computer, the sequence processing computer can be considered to be a computer that executes the above processes in accordance with the above program. Furthermore, if a computer that performs RIP processing based on a job is defined as a RIP computer, the RIP computer may be the same computer as the sequence processing computer. In other words, the sequence processing computer may also serve as the RIP computer, or separate computers may be used as the sequence processing computer and the RIP computer. The sequence processing computer may be a computer such as a server installed in a location separate from the printing device. A cloud server or the like used via a wide area network such as the Internet can be suitably used as such a sequence processing computer. Furthermore, in a schedule display process, etc., the sequence processing computer displays jobs in a schedule format on the screen (monitor) of another computer operated by a user. The screen of the RIP computer can be used as this screen. The RIP computer can be a computer such as a PC that executes a program for RIP processing. The RIP computer communicates with the sequence processing computer and the printing device via a network, causing the printing device to execute printing corresponding to the jobs according to the order of the jobs specified in the schedule format by the sequence processing computer. The RIP computer can also be considered a computer for controlling the printing device.

[0011] Furthermore, the program executed by the sequence processing computer (hereinafter referred to as the schedule management program) further causes the sequence processing computer to perform a processing order designation process that designates the order in which jobs should be processed by the RIP computer. The RIP computer then executes RIP processing corresponding to the jobs according to the order of the multiple jobs displayed on the screen in schedule format in the schedule display process by following the order designated in the processing order designation process, and causes the printing device to execute printing corresponding to the jobs based on the data generated by the RIP processing. This configuration allows the printing device to easily execute printing operations according to a schedule designated by the user. Furthermore, if the order of jobs is rearranged in the job order change process, the sequence processing computer designates the order in which the jobs should be processed to the RIP computer in accordance with the order in which the jobs are arranged after the change in the processing order designation process. This configuration allows the results of the job rearrangement to be appropriately reflected in the operation of the RIP computer. Furthermore, in the predicted value acquisition process, the sequence processing computer may acquire predicted time values ​​and predicted ink consumption values ​​corresponding to the jobs from the RIP computer. The RIP computer calculates the predicted time value and the predicted ink consumption value by performing the same or similar processing as the RIP processing on the job. More specifically, the RIP computer calculates the predicted time value and the predicted ink consumption value by performing the RIP processing with a setting that lowers the image resolution than when the RIP processing is performed to actually print on the printing device. With this configuration, the RIP computer can calculate the predicted time value and the predicted ink consumption value with high accuracy.

[0012] Furthermore, in the schedule display process, the information based on the predicted ink consumption value may be, for example, a predicted value for the remaining amount of ink in the printing device, which may be displayed on the screen. In this case, the schedule management program further causes the sequence processing computer to perform, for example, a remaining ink amount acquisition process that acquires the current remaining ink amount, which is the amount of ink remaining in the printing device at the present time, and a remaining ink amount predicted value calculation process that calculates a predicted value for the remaining ink amount based on the predicted ink consumption value and the current remaining ink amount. Then, in the schedule display process, the sequence processing computer is caused to display, for example, the predicted remaining ink amount calculated in the remaining ink amount predicted value calculation process on the screen as information based on the predicted ink consumption value. With this configuration, it is possible to more easily predict when the remaining ink will become low.

[0013] Furthermore, when a printing device is operated continuously for a long period of time to print multiple jobs, it may be preferable to estimate the total amount of ink consumed by printing multiple jobs processed consecutively, rather than simply estimating the amount of ink consumed for each job. Therefore, the schedule management program may further cause the sequence processing computer to perform a total ink consumption prediction process that calculates a total ink consumption prediction value, which is a prediction of the total amount of ink consumed by multiple jobs processed consecutively. In this case, in the total ink consumption prediction process, the sequence processing computer calculates a total ink consumption prediction value for at least a portion of a period displayed in schedule format in the schedule display process based on the ink consumption prediction values ​​corresponding to jobs included in this partial period. Furthermore, in the schedule display process, it is preferable that information based on the total ink consumption prediction value be displayed on the screen in association with the jobs displayed in schedule format. Furthermore, if the order of jobs is rearranged in the job order change process, it is preferable to have the sequence processing computer perform the total ink consumption prediction process, schedule display process, etc. again to display information based on the total ink consumption prediction value corresponding to the rearranged job order. With this configuration, even if the order of jobs is rearranged, the total amount of ink that will be consumed in the changed state can be easily and appropriately predicted.

[0014] Furthermore, it is conceivable that jobs may be displayed in a schedule format after printing corresponding to some of the jobs has been executed on the printing device. In this case, it is conceivable that the job order change process only rearranges jobs for which printing has not yet been executed. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the schedule display process further displays information obtained at the time of printing for executed jobs. More specifically, it is conceivable that the schedule management program further causes the order processing computer to perform a performance value acquisition process that acquires performance values ​​related to printing. The performance value acquisition process is a process that acquires performance values ​​related to printing after printing corresponding to a job has been executed on the printing device. In the performance value acquisition process, the order processing computer acquires, as performance values, the actual printing time, which is the time required to print the job, and the actual ink consumption, which is the amount of ink consumed during printing. In this case, it is also conceivable that in the schedule display process, the order processing computer displays information based on the actual printing time and actual ink consumption, in association with jobs that have been printed, on the screen that displays jobs in a schedule format. This configuration makes it easy to confirm the relationship between predicted time values ​​and predicted ink consumption values ​​and actual values. This also allows for more appropriate management of job schedules. Information based on the actual printing time and actual ink consumption may, for example, be information that directly indicates the actual printing time and actual ink consumption (actual values). Information based on the actual printing time and actual ink consumption may also be information based on the difference between predicted values ​​and actual values ​​(predicted-actual difference).

[0015] In addition, a printing device may print the same content as a previously executed job. In this case, when printing is performed for the second or subsequent times, the sequential processing computer processes a job with the same content (repeat job) as an executed job, which is a job that has previously been printed by the printing device. Such a job with the same content can be considered a job for which actual values ​​for the printing time and ink consumption are known. Therefore, if multiple jobs displayed on the screen during the schedule display process include a job with the same content, the actual printing time and actual ink consumption corresponding to the executed job with the same content as the job with the same content can be obtained through an actual value acquisition process, and the actual printing time and actual ink consumption corresponding to the executed job can be used as the predicted time and ink consumption corresponding to the job with the same content in the predicted value acquisition process. This configuration allows for highly accurate predicted time and ink consumption values ​​to be used without performing processes such as calculating the predicted time and ink consumption values.

[0016] Furthermore, to more appropriately manage the schedules of multiple jobs, it may be preferable to further consider the consumption of the media to be printed during printing. For example, when a printing device sequentially unwinds rolled media, it is preferable to predict the amount of media consumed during printing corresponding to a job in order to estimate the remaining amount of media. Therefore, in the predicted value acquisition process, the sequence processing computer may further acquire a media consumption prediction value, which is a prediction of the amount of media consumed during printing corresponding to a job when the printing device executes printing. In this case, in the schedule display process, the sequence processing computer further displays information based on the media consumption prediction value on the screen, in association with the jobs displayed in schedule format. This configuration allows for more appropriate job management, even when management of media consumption and remaining amount is required.

[0017] Furthermore, when a printing device is to print multiple jobs, a job may be added after a job processing schedule has been determined. Furthermore, after printing has begun, it may be desirable to interrupt printing for a new job before printing for all jobs has finished. Therefore, it is preferable that the schedule management program further causes the sequence processing computer to perform an additional job reception process that accepts the addition of an additional job. An additional job is a new job that is added after multiple jobs are displayed in schedule format in the schedule display process. In the additional job reception process, the sequence processing computer, based on a user's instruction, inserts the additional job into the schedule of multiple jobs displayed on the screen at the time the additional job is added. This configuration simplifies the process for adding a new job. Furthermore, the present invention can also be configured with a schedule management method, a schedule management device, or the like having similar features. In these cases, the same effects as those described above can also be obtained.

[0018] According to the present invention, it is possible to more easily and appropriately manage jobs that cause a printing device to perform printing.

[0019] 1A illustrates a printing system 10 that uses a program according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1A shows an example of the configuration of the printing system 10. FIG. 1B shows another example of the configuration of the print execution unit 14 in the printing system 10. FIG. 1B is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the server 12. FIG. 1C illustrates the display content that the server 12 displays on the screen. FIG. 3A illustrates an example of how jobs are managed in the RIP PC 104. FIG. 3B illustrates an example of the display content that the server 12 displays on the screen. FIG. 4A illustrates an operation for accepting an instruction from a user to add an additional job. FIG. 4A shows jobs managed in the RIP PC 104, similar to FIG. 3A. FIG. 4B illustrates an example of a screen for accepting an instruction from a user regarding the position at which an additional job (interrupt job) will be inserted. FIG. 4C illustrates an operation for accepting an instruction from a user to change the order in which jobs are processed. FIG. 4D illustrates another example of the display content that the server 12 displays on the screen. FIG. 4E illustrates an example of the display content that the server 12 displays on the screen when printing is performed using multiple printing devices 102. 8A and 8B are diagrams illustrating examples of display content that the server 12 displays on the screen when the print execution unit 14 has multiple RIP PCs 104. Fig. 8A shows an example of jobs managed by multiple RIP PCs 104. Fig. 8B shows an example of display content that the server 12 displays on the screen for the multiple jobs shown in Fig. 8A.

[0020] An embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 illustrates a printing system 10 using a program according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1A illustrates an example of the configuration of the printing system 10. FIG. 1B illustrates another example of the configuration of a print execution unit 14 in the printing system 10. Except as described below, the printing system 10 and its components may have the same or similar features as known printing systems and their components. The printing system 10 of this example includes a server 12 and a print execution unit 14. The print execution unit 14 also includes a printing device 102 and a RIP PC 104. The server 12 is a computer accessed by the print execution unit 14 via a wide area network 20 such as the Internet, and executes processing based on user instructions received from the print execution unit 14 via the RIP PC 104, for example. The server 12 displays information to the user and accepts instructions from the user via a user interface (UI) displayed on a screen such as a monitor of the RIP PC 104. The server 12 in this example is an example of a schedule management device and an order processing computer that manages jobs to be printed by the printing device 102 constituting the print execution unit 14, and executes processes related to job management according to a schedule management program. The order processing computer is a computer that performs at least a process for changing the order of jobs to be executed in relation to job management. By executing the schedule management program, the server 12 also functions as a schedule management device that manages jobs using a predetermined schedule management method. The job management-related processes executed by the server 12 will be described in more detail later. A cloud server or the like can be suitably used as the server 12. A cloud server is, for example, a server that makes one or more virtualized servers available via the wide area network 20. By executing the schedule management program on the cloud server, the cloud server functions as the job management server 12.

[0021] The print execution unit 14 corresponds to a base where printing is performed in the printing system 10. As described above, the print execution unit 14 in this example includes a printing device 102 and a RIP PC 104. The printing device 102 is connected to the RIP PC 104 via, for example, a local area network (LAN), and prints on a target medium based on RIP-generated data generated by the RIP PC 104 performing RIP processing (Raster Image Processor). The printing device 102 can be an inkjet printer or the like that prints using an inkjet method. The printing device 102 in this example is an industrial inkjet printer that runs continuously for a long period of time (e.g., several hours to several days) to produce multiple printouts based on multiple RIP-generated data sequentially supplied from the RIP PC 104. The printing device 102 can be an inkjet printer or the like that sequentially unwinds a roll of media. By using such a printing device 102, continuous operation for long periods of time can be achieved without the user having to replace the medium. A suitable printing device 102 is a vertical printer that prints on the medium while transporting it. It is also possible to use a printing device 102 configured to print on leaf-shaped media (leaf media) with a fixed size (length and width). In this case, continuous operation for long periods of time can also be achieved by, for example, replenishing or replacing the media as needed, depending on the user's work. A suitable printing device 102 is, for example, a flatbed printer.

[0022] The RIP PC 104 is a computer (RIP computer) that executes RIP processing based on a print job. The RIP PC 104 can also be considered a computer for controlling the printing device 102. RIP processing is a process of converting a print image, which is an image to be printed, into a raster image (raster image) of a predetermined format. Furthermore, the print job in this example is a unit that specifies the printing operation to be performed by the printing device 102 and indicates image data and printing conditions. Image data is data that represents the print image. Based on the job, the RIP PC 104 converts the print image to a raster image in accordance with the printing conditions and appropriately performs processing tailored to the printing device 102 to generate RIP-generated data in a format tailored to the specifications of the printing device 102. The RIP PC 104 generates RIP-generated data to be supplied to the printing device 102 based on the print image and printing conditions by performing color separation processing tailored to the ink colors used in the printing device 102, resolution conversion processing tailored to the printing conditions, and quantization processing (e.g., binarization processing) to generate a raster image. The RIP PC 104 then supplies this RIP-generated data to the printing device 102, causing the printing device 102 to execute printing corresponding to the job.

[0023] In this example, the RIP PC 104 executes a RIP processing program to perform RIP processing based on a job. The RIP PC 104 also generates jobs in response to user operations on the RIP PC 104. More specifically, the RIP PC 104 generates jobs by reading image data representing a print image and accepting printing condition specifications through user operations. The RIP PC 104 may also accept printing condition specifications by reading a file representing the printing conditions. The RIP PC 104 may also automatically generate jobs by reading a file stored in a predefined folder. In this case, the RIP PC 104 reads a file corresponding to image data and a file representing the printing conditions, which are associated according to a predetermined rule, and generates a job based on these files. This operation of the RIP PC 104 can also be considered as reading a specified job. Furthermore, the RIP PC 104 in this example is capable of storing (spooling) multiple jobs, and causes the printing device 102 to print corresponding to the multiple jobs by sequentially processing the stored jobs. In this case, the RIP PC 104 sequentially generates RIP-generated data corresponding to the jobs based on a schedule specified by the server 12, and supplies the data to the printing device 102. With this configuration, it is possible to cause the printing device 102 to print corresponding to multiple jobs.

[0024] As described above, the RIP PC 104 in this example is also used as a device that displays a user interface for the server 12. The RIP PC 104 executes a program (app) that displays a screen for inputting and outputting information to and from the server 12, thereby displaying information about jobs managed by the server 12 and changing schedules, etc. This configuration allows the server 12 to be controlled based on user operations via a screen on a device other than the server 12. An internet browser or the like can be suitably used as a program for displaying a user interface for the server 12. It is also conceivable that such a program could use functions included in a RIP processing program. It is also conceivable that a device other than the RIP PC 104 can be used as a device that displays a user interface for the server 12. Such a device could, for example, be a tablet terminal or smartphone operated by a user.

[0025] In the printing system 10 of this example, the components of the print execution unit 14 are devices managed by a business or the like that uses the printing device 102. In contrast, as described above, a cloud server or the like can be suitably used for the server 12. In this case, the server 12 can be considered to be managed by a business or the like that is separate from the business or the like that manages the print execution unit 14. For example, the server 12 can be managed by a business that manufactures or sells the printing device 102. In other words, the server 12 can be considered to be a server that operates the services that such a business or the like provides to users of the printing device 102. In a modified configuration of the printing system 10, the business that manages the print execution unit 14 can also manage the server 12. In this case, the server 12 can be installed within the print execution unit 14. It is also possible, for example, to have the RIP PC 104 also function as the server 12. In this case, the server 12 and the RIP PC 104 are configured as the same computer. For ease of illustration and explanation, FIG. 1A illustrates the print execution unit 14 configured with one printing device 102 and one RIP PC 104. In contrast, in a modified configuration of the print execution unit 14, the print execution unit 14 may include multiple printing devices 102 and multiple RIP PCs 104, as shown in FIG. 1B. Alternatively, multiple printing devices 102 may be connected to a single RIP PC 104, and printing by the multiple printing devices 102 may be controlled by the single RIP PC 104. In this case, the server 12 manages jobs while allocating them to the multiple RIP PCs 104 and multiple printing devices 102. Therefore, even in this configuration, the RIP PC 104 sequentially generates RIP-generated data corresponding to jobs based on a schedule specified by the server 12 and supplies the data to the printing device 102. This configuration allows the printing device 102 to print multiple jobs.

[0026] Next, the process related to job management executed by the server 12 will be described in more detail. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the server 12. When the server 12 of this example executes a process related to job management in accordance with a schedule management program, the server 12 first acquires printer-related information, which is information related to the printing device 102 connected to the RIP PC 104 (S102). The printing device 102 connected to the RIP PC 104 is the printing device 102 registered in the RIP processing program executed by the RIP PC 104. The printing device 102 registered in the RIP processing program is the printing device 102 that performs printing by receiving RIP-generated data from the RIP PC 104. In step S102 of this example, the server 12 acquires the printer-related information from the RIP PC 104. The server 12 acquires, as the printer-related information, information such as the model of the printing device 102 and the status of the printing device 102. In this example, the server 12 acquires, as information regarding the status of the printing device 102, the current ink remaining amount, which is information indicating the current amount of ink remaining in the printing device 102, and the current media remaining amount, which is information indicating the current amount of media remaining. The operation of step S102 in this example is an example of the operation of the ink remaining amount acquisition process, media remaining amount acquisition process, ink remaining amount acquisition stage, and media remaining amount acquisition stage. The ink remaining amount acquisition process is a process of acquiring the current ink remaining amount. The server 12 acquires the current ink remaining amount for each color of ink used in the printing device 102. The media remaining amount acquisition process is a process of acquiring the current media remaining amount. As described above, the print execution unit 14 may also have multiple printing devices 102 and RIP PCs 104. In this case, in step S102, the server 12 acquires printer-related information regarding the multiple printing devices 102 from the multiple RIP PCs 104. Furthermore, the server 12 may also appropriately target a plurality of printing devices 102 and a plurality of RIP PCs 104 in the operations described below.

[0027] Following the operation of step S102, the server 12 acquires managed job information, which is information about the job to be managed, from the RIP PC 104 (S104). The RIP PC 104 transmits information indicating the accumulated job as managed job information to the server 12. The operation of step S104 in this example is an example of a target job acquisition process and a target job acquisition stage. Following the operation of step S104, the server 12 acquires job-related predicted values, which are various predicted values ​​related to individual jobs (S106). The operation of step S106 in this example is an example of a predicted value acquisition process and a predicted value acquisition stage. The server 12 acquires at least some of the job-related predicted values ​​from the RIP PC 104. The server 12 may also calculate some of the job-related predicted values ​​based on information acquired from the RIP PC 104. In this case, the operation of calculating predicted values ​​can also be considered an example of an operation of acquiring predicted values. In step S106 of this example, the server 12 acquires, as job-related predicted values, a predicted time value, which is a predicted value of the time required for the printing device 102 to print based on the job, and a predicted ink consumption value, which is a predicted value of the amount of ink consumed (used amount) in the printing, for each job to be managed. The server 12 acquires the predicted time value and predicted ink consumption value for each job for multiple jobs stored in the RIP PC 104.

[0028] In relation to the operation of step S106, the RIP PC 104 calculates the predicted time value and the predicted ink consumption value by performing a process identical or similar to the RIP process on the job. In this case, the RIP PC 104 calculates the predicted time value and the predicted ink consumption value by, for example, using a function provided in the RIP process program to perform the RIP process at a lower image resolution than when the RIP process is performed to actually print on the printing device 102. This configuration allows the RIP PC 104 to calculate the predicted time value and the predicted ink consumption value with high accuracy. This allows the server 12 to obtain the predicted time value and the predicted ink consumption value calculated with high accuracy. The function provided in the RIP process program may, for example, be a pre-RIP function executed to predict the results of the RIP process prior to the RIP process performed to generate RIP-generated data. In step S106 of this example, the server 12 also obtains a predicted media consumption value, which is a predicted value of the amount of media that will be consumed when the printing device 102 performs printing corresponding to the job. The predicted medium consumption value is a predicted value of the amount of media consumed in printing corresponding to one job. The server 12 also acquires the predicted medium consumption value from the RIP PC 104. The server 12 may calculate the predicted medium consumption value based on information acquired from the RIP PC 104.

[0029] Calculating the predicted time value, predicted ink consumption value, etc. as described above corresponds to predicting the predicted time value and predicted ink consumption value based on the image represented by the image data in the job and the printing conditions. The printing conditions may also specify the number of times (number of copies) the same image is to be printed. In this case, the RIP PC 104 calculates the predicted time value, predicted ink consumption value, etc., taking this number of repetitions into account. The number of repetitions in the printing conditions may also be considered in the server 12. In this case, the server 12 acquires predicted values ​​for the time and ink consumption corresponding to one printing from the RIP PC 104, and calculates the predicted time value, predicted ink consumption value, etc. based on these predicted values ​​and the number of repetitions in the printing conditions. This configuration allows the predicted time value and predicted ink consumption value to be calculated according to the printing conditions. Depending on the accuracy required for the calculation, the server 12 may also calculate the predicted time value based on the print area, etc.

[0030] In addition to job-related predicted values, which are predicted values ​​corresponding to individual jobs, the server 12 in this example also uses schedule predicted values, which are predicted values ​​related to multiple jobs processed consecutively according to a schedule. The server 12 calculates the schedule predicted values ​​based on information acquired from the RIP PC 104 in steps S102 to S106 (S108). The server 12 in this example calculates, as the schedule predicted values, a total ink consumption predicted value, which is a predicted value of the sum of the ink consumption consumed by multiple jobs processed consecutively, and a print length predicted value, which corresponds to the amount of media consumed (total amount) in printing corresponding to the multiple jobs. More specifically, the server 12 calculates the total ink consumption predicted value based on the ink consumption predicted value for each job acquired in step S106, and calculates the print length predicted value based on the media consumption predicted value for each job. The operation of calculating the total ink consumption predicted value in this example is an example of the operation of the total ink consumption prediction process and the total ink consumption prediction stage. Furthermore, the operation of calculating the predicted value of the printing length is an example of a total media consumption prediction process and an operation of a total media consumption prediction stage. The predicted value of the printing length is an example of information based on the predicted media consumption value.

[0031] Furthermore, in this example, the server 12 displays the jobs it manages in a schedule format on the screen of the RIP PC 104 or the like (S110). The operation of step S110 in this example is an example of the schedule display process and the operation in the schedule display stage. The schedule display process can be considered to be a process of displaying information related to multiple jobs on the screen in a schedule format. The schedule format is a format that displays the timing of job processing in chronological order. Displaying job-related information on the screen in a schedule format can be considered, for example, to display the timing of printing corresponding to jobs over time. Displaying information related to multiple jobs on the screen means, for example, displaying information related to each job on the screen. In addition, in step S110 in this example, the server 12 arranges jobs in chronological order based on the time prediction value for each job obtained in step S106 and displays them on the screen. This configuration allows for highly accurate display of jobs in a schedule format. This also makes it possible to clearly indicate to users, etc., who manage the printing device 102, the timing of printing corresponding to jobs. In addition, work plans performed using the printing device 102 or the like can be visualized, thereby improving work efficiency. Furthermore, visualizing work plans allows for easier and more appropriate production planning, which is a plan for producing printed materials using the printing device 102. This also facilitates and appropriate production management of printed materials. In step S110, the server 12 displays on the screen at least information based on the predicted ink consumption values, in association with the jobs. More specifically, the server 12 in this example displays on the screen, as such information, a predicted total ink consumption value calculated based on the predicted ink consumption values ​​and a predicted print length, in association with the jobs displayed in a schedule format. This configuration allows the user to more easily manage the amounts of ink and media consumed and the remaining amounts of ink and media consumed in printing corresponding to multiple jobs that are processed consecutively according to a schedule.

[0032] The server 12 of this example also receives instructions from the user, such as changing the order of jobs displayed on the screen in schedule format or adding a new job (S112). The server 12 receives instructions from the user regarding changing the order of jobs or adding a new job based on user operations on the screen displaying the job schedule. The server 12 of this example receives these instructions based on user operations on the screen of the RIP PC 104. The operation of step S112 of this example is an example of the operation of the job order change process, the additional job reception process, the job order change stage, and the additional job reception stage. The job order change process is a process of receiving an instruction from the user to change the order of multiple jobs displayed in schedule format and rearranging the job order based on the user's instruction. The additional job reception process is a process of accepting the addition of an additional job. An additional job is a new job (interrupt job) added after multiple jobs are displayed in schedule format in step S110. An additional job can also be considered a job inserted into the schedule at the user's instruction.

[0033] In this example, if the server 12 receives an instruction from the user to change the job order or add an additional job in step S112 (Yes in S112), the server 12 repeats the operations from step S104 onward as necessary. If there is no change in the jobs to be managed and there is no need to acquire new managed job information, job-related predicted values, etc. from the RIP PC 104, the server 12 calculates a predicted schedule value based on the changed job order in step S108 without acquiring new information in steps S104 and S106. Furthermore, if an additional job is added, the server 12 acquires managed job information, job-related predicted values, etc. related to the added job from the RIP PC 104 in steps S104 and S106. Then, in step S108, the server 12 calculates a predicted schedule value based on the changed job order, including the added job. After performing these operations as necessary, the server 12 displays multiple jobs on the screen in schedule format based on the schedule after the job order has been changed or the additional job has been added in step S110. The operations of steps S104 to S110, which are performed again after step S112, can be considered to be processing for displaying a new schedule that has been modified based on a user instruction. Furthermore, in the processing for adding an additional job, the server 12, based on the user instruction, inserts the additional job into the schedule of multiple jobs that is displayed on the screen at the time the additional job is added. According to this example, by rearranging the order of jobs based on the user instruction received in step S112, it is possible to easily modify the job schedule. Furthermore, even if an additional job is added after the schedule for processing jobs has been determined, it is possible to easily modify the schedule to take the additional job into consideration.

[0034] As described above, the server 12 in this example displays the predicted total ink consumption and predicted print length on the screen in association with jobs displayed in schedule format. For at least a portion of the period displayed in schedule format in step S110, the server 12 calculates the predicted total ink consumption and predicted print length based on the predicted ink consumption and predicted medium consumption corresponding to jobs included in this period. This configuration makes it easier to predict the total amount of ink and medium consumed in printing corresponding to multiple jobs. Furthermore, as described above, in this example, if the order of jobs is rearranged by changing the order of jobs or adding an additional job, the server 12 recalculates the predicted total ink consumption and predicted print length, which are schedule predictions, to match the changed order of jobs. The server 12 then displays the calculated predicted total ink consumption and predicted print length based on the changed order of jobs on the screen. Therefore, according to this example, even if the order of jobs is rearranged, the total amount of ink and medium consumed in the changed state can be easily predicted. As a result, even when the printing device 102 is made to print multiple jobs during long periods of continuous operation, it is possible to predict the total amount of ink and media consumed in printing multiple jobs processed in succession, rather than for each individual job. Furthermore, by displaying these predicted values ​​on the screen in association with the jobs, the predicted ink consumption amount in the printing device 102 can be understood in association with the job processing schedule. This makes it easier to change the schedule to take into account the timing of maintenance such as ink replenishment. Furthermore, in this example, by displaying the predicted media consumption value on the screen in association with the job, it is also easy to predict the remaining amount of media when using rolled media.

[0035] Furthermore, if there is no change in the job order or the addition of a new job in step S112 (No in S112), the server 12 sends an instruction to the RIP PC 104 to reflect the schedule, thereby specifying the order in which the jobs should be processed to the RIP PC 104 (S114). The operation of step S104 in this example is an example of the operation of the processing order specification process and the processing order specification stage. By following the order in which the jobs should be processed specified by the server 12 in step S114, the RIP PC 104 executes RIP processing corresponding to the jobs in accordance with the order of the multiple jobs displayed on the screen by the server 12 in step S110. The RIP PC 104 supplies RIP-generated data generated by the RIP processing to the printing device 102, causing the printing device 102 to execute printing corresponding to the jobs. This configuration allows the printing device 102 to execute printing operations according to a schedule specified by the user. Furthermore, as can be understood from the above description, when the order of jobs is changed or an additional job is added in step S112, the server 12 specifies the order in which the jobs are to be processed to the RIP PC 104 according to the order in which the jobs are arranged in the changed schedule. Therefore, according to this example, even when the schedule is changed, the changed schedule can be reflected in the operation of the RIP PC 104.

[0036] Here, it is also possible to display jobs in a schedule format or change the schedule after some of the managed jobs have been executed. Furthermore, after printing has started on the printing device 102, it may be desirable to insert a new additional job before printing for all jobs has finished. Taking these points into consideration, it is possible to rearrange only unexecuted jobs when changing the job order in step S112. In this case, when displaying the schedule on the screen in step S110, information obtained during printing for executed jobs may also be displayed on the screen. More specifically, when the server 12 acquires the managed job information in step S104, it may acquire printing-related performance values ​​for executed jobs and display them on the screen. The operation of the server 12 to acquire such performance values ​​is an example of the operation of a performance value acquisition process. The performance value acquisition process can also be considered a process of acquiring printing-related performance values ​​after printing corresponding to a job has been executed on the printing device 102. The server 12 acquires, as such performance values, the actual printing time, which is the time required to print corresponding to the job, and the actual ink consumption, which is the amount of ink consumed during printing. In step S110, the server 12 displays information based on the actual printing time and actual ink consumption in association with the executed job on a screen that displays jobs in schedule format. This configuration allows the user to easily check the relationship between predicted and actual values ​​for printing time and ink consumption. This also allows for more appropriate job schedule management. Information based on the actual printing time and actual ink consumption may include information that directly indicates the actual printing time and actual ink consumption (actual values). Alternatively, the difference between predicted and actual values ​​(predicted / actual difference) may be used as information based on the actual printing time and actual ink consumption.

[0037] It is also possible to use the above-described actual values ​​as predicted values ​​for a repeat job. The printing device 102 may print the same content as a previously executed print job. In this case, the server 12 treats the second and subsequent print jobs as repeat jobs (jobs with the same content), which are jobs with the same content as jobs previously printed by the printing device 102. For repeat jobs, actual values ​​regarding the printing time and ink consumption are known. Therefore, if the multiple jobs displayed on the screen in step S110 include a repeat job, the server 12 may use the actual printing time and actual ink consumption corresponding to a previously executed job with the same content as the repeat job as the predicted time and ink consumption corresponding to the repeat job in step S106. The server 12 acquires these actual printing time and actual ink consumption when acquiring the managed job information in step S104. Alternatively, the actual printing time and actual ink consumption may be acquired as part of the operation of step S106. With this configuration, it is possible to use highly accurate predicted time and ink consumption values ​​for a repeat job without calculating these values ​​in the RIP PC 104 or the like.

[0038] A repeat job is a job whose image data and printing conditions are identical to those of a previously executed job. More specifically, the image represented by the image data of a repeat job is identical to that of a previously executed job, and the printing conditions, such as resolution, print area, and print speed (mode), are also identical. Therefore, the printing time and ink consumption of a repeat job are identical to those of the previously executed job. Therefore, the server 12 can use the actual printing time and actual ink consumption of the previously executed job as the estimated time and ink consumption of the repeat job. Furthermore, a repeat job can be considered a job that is treated as the same as a previously executed job in the RIP processing program executed by the RIP PC 104. The RIP processing program in this example manages the history of previously executed jobs. Based on a user instruction, the RIP PC 104 can select a job from the history and reselect it as the job to be processed. A job selected from the history and selected as the job to be processed is treated as a repeat job.

[0039] Furthermore, a repeat job can be broadly interpreted as a job similar to a previously executed job, with the same printing conditions as the previously executed job, such as resolution, print area, and print speed (mode), but with different image data. While such a job may consume different amounts of ink than the previously executed job, the printing time is expected to be the same or similar. Therefore, for such a job, the server 12 may use the actual printing time of the previously executed job for the estimated time value, out of the estimated time value and the estimated ink consumption value. In this case, the server 12 obtains the estimated ink consumption value calculated by the RIP PC 104 from the RIP PC 104, as with a normal job. This configuration allows the actual value of the previously executed job to be used when there are jobs similar to the previously executed job, in addition to exact repeat jobs. The RIP PC 104 may distinguish such jobs similar to previously executed jobs based on user instructions. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the RIP PC 104 automatically detects such a job based on the history of jobs that have been printed in the past.

[0040] As described above, the server 12 of this embodiment displays the predicted total ink consumption and the predicted print length on the screen in association with jobs displayed in a schedule format. As described above, the predicted total ink consumption and the predicted print length are predicted values ​​related to the amount of ink and medium consumed by multiple jobs processed consecutively. The server 12 may also display job-related predicted values ​​corresponding to each job on the screen in association with that job. In this case, the server 12 displays at least a portion of the predicted time, ink consumption, and medium consumption values ​​for each job as job-related predicted values. In a modified version of the server 12's operation, the server 12 may not directly display the predicted total ink consumption and the predicted print length on the screen, but may instead associate them with jobs displayed in a schedule format and display information based on them on the screen. For example, instead of displaying the amount of ink or medium consumed, it is possible to display predicted values ​​indicating the remaining amount of ink or medium on the screen. As described above, in the operation of step S102, the server 12 in this example acquires, as information regarding the status of the printing device 102, the current ink remaining amount, which indicates the remaining amount of ink, and the current media remaining amount, which indicates the remaining amount of media. The server 12 then calculates a predicted value for the remaining amount of ink based on the predicted ink consumption amount and the current ink remaining amount. The server 12 also calculates a predicted value for the remaining media amount based on the predicted media consumption amount and the current media remaining amount. The predicted value for the remaining ink amount is the value obtained by subtracting the predicted total ink consumption amount from the current ink remaining amount. In other words, the predicted value for the remaining ink amount is a predicted value based on the predicted total ink consumption amount. Similarly, the predicted value for the remaining media amount is a predicted value based on the predicted print length. The operation of the server 12 calculating the predicted value for the remaining ink amount is an example of the operation of the predicted ink remaining amount calculation process and the predicted ink remaining amount calculation stage. The operation of the server 12 calculating the predicted value for the remaining media amount is an example of the operation of the predicted media remaining amount calculation process and the predicted media remaining amount calculation stage. In step S110, the server 12 displays the predicted remaining amount of ink and the predicted remaining amount of medium calculated as described above on the screen. This configuration makes it easier to predict when the remaining amount of ink or medium will become low.

[0041] As described above, the server 12 in this example is an example of a schedule management device. The server 12 functions as a schedule management device by performing the above processes in accordance with a schedule management program. The CPU and other components of the server 12 function as processing units that execute the above processes. In other words, the schedule management device can be considered to have processing units corresponding to the above processes. Similarly, the RIP PC 104 functions as a RIP processing device by executing a program for RIP processing. The CPU and other components of the RIP PC 104 function as processing units that execute the processes executed by the RIP PC 104. In other words, the RIP processing device can be considered to have processing units corresponding to the above processes.

[0042] Next, examples of the display content displayed by the server 12 on the screen in step S110, as well as adding and changing the order of jobs, will be described in more detail. FIG. 3 illustrates the content displayed by the server 12 on the screen in step S110. FIG. 3A shows an example of how jobs are managed by the RIP PC 104. The RIP PC 104 in this example can manage multiple jobs in a queue format, arranging them in the order in which they should be processed, using the RIP processing program functions, as shown in FIG. 3A. The RIP PC 104 can also rearrange the order of jobs based on user instructions. Furthermore, the RIP PC 104 can predict the printing time and ink consumption required for each job using the RIP processing program functions. However, when managing jobs using only the RIP PC 104 in this manner, the user must manually collect information related to jobs processed before that job in order to confirm the actual printing timing for that job. Furthermore, because multiple jobs are simply processed in order, it is difficult to specify the timing at which each job is processed, making it difficult to print according to the business hours of the business using the printing device 102 or the convenience of the user using the printing device 102.

[0043] In contrast, the RIP PC 104 of this example cooperates with the server 12, allowing for more flexible timing for printing on the printing device 102 based on user instructions. For example, the server 12 can display information related to multiple jobs in a schedule format on the screen of a computer operated by a user, such as the RIP PC 104, as shown in FIG. 3B. FIG. 3B shows an example of the content displayed on the screen by the server 12. FIG. 3B shows an example in which the operating hours of the printing device 102, determined based on the business hours of the business using the printing device 102, are set to 9:00 to 20:00 daily based on user instructions input by the user, and jobs stored in the RIP PC 104 are assigned to any timing within the operating hours. The jobs stored in the RIP PC 104 are jobs managed by the RIP PC 104 in a queue format, as shown in FIG. 3A. The server 12 arranges the jobs stored in the RIP PC 104 within daily operating hours, adjusting the processing order as needed based on the estimated time for each job and preset rules. This allows the server 12 to determine a job processing schedule that matches the operating hours of the printing device 102. The server 12's job arrangement involves accepting input of the end time for printing within a day and the operating hours of the printing device 102, and allocating jobs so that they fit within that time. This operation of the server 12 can also be thought of as automatically rearranging jobs input to the RIP PC 104 so that they fit within the operating hours of the printing device 102. In this example, the server 12 reflects this schedule in the operation of the RIP PC 104, causing the RIP PC 104 to process jobs according to the schedule. This configuration allows printing corresponding to multiple jobs to fit within the operating hours of the printing device 102 each day. In addition, by displaying a schedule that lists multiple jobs across multiple days, printing-related work plans can be visualized, making it easier and more appropriate to plan the production of printed materials.

[0044] As described above, the server 12 of this embodiment also displays the predicted print length and the predicted total ink consumption on the screen in association with jobs displayed in a schedule format. As shown in the figure as print length and ink consumption, the server 12 displays the predicted print length and the predicted total ink consumption for each day during the operating hours of the printing device 102 for each day printing is performed. This also allows the user to grasp the timing when media and ink will need to be replenished or replaced. It is expected that ink consumption will vary depending on the type of image printed by each job. In particular, when multiple jobs are executed in a single day, as in this embodiment, the amount of ink consumed is expected to vary even more significantly. In contrast, this embodiment displays the predicted total ink consumption on the screen, making it easier to adjust the amount of ink consumed for a single day. Furthermore, by predicting the amount of ink consumed for printing multiple jobs, the timing when ink will need to be replenished, etc., can be predicted. This allows the printing device 102 to operate continuously for long periods of time in a more planned manner, even if a user is not near the printing device 102 when printing is performed. Furthermore, in this example, by displaying the predicted print length on the screen, it is possible to create a production plan that takes the remaining amount of media into consideration. For example, it is possible to manage the remaining amount of rolled media based on the predicted print length. Furthermore, as a variation of the content displayed on the screen, the server 12 may display the predicted print length and the predicted total ink consumption on the screen in units other than days. For example, it is possible to display the predicted print length and the predicted total ink consumption corresponding to the amount of media and ink consumed at the time of printing for each job processed in a day on the screen. This configuration allows for more detailed predictions of media and ink consumption.

[0045] As described above, the server 12 in this embodiment accepts instructions from the user regarding adding an additional job or changing the order of jobs, and changes the schedule based on those instructions. The server 12 also displays multiple jobs in schedule format on the screen based on the changed schedule. More specifically, the server 12 accepts instructions from the user regarding adding an additional job or changing the order of jobs, as shown in, for example, FIGS. 4 and 5 . FIG. 4 illustrates the operation of accepting an instruction to add an additional job from the user. FIG. 4A is a diagram similar to FIG. 3A showing jobs managed by the RIP PC 104, illustrating an example of a state in which an additional job, indicated as an interrupt job in the diagram, has been added. FIG. 4B shows an example of a screen for accepting instructions from the user regarding the position at which the additional job, which is an interrupt job, should be inserted.

[0046] As described above, when the printing device 102 is performing printing corresponding to multiple jobs, it may be necessary to insert an additional job after the printing device 102 has started printing but before all jobs are finished. In this case, if the RIP PC 104 adds the interrupt job, the interrupt job is added to the end of the multiple jobs queued in a queue, as shown in FIG. 4A, for example. In contrast, in this example, as shown in FIG. 4B, for example, the user can insert an interrupt job into the schedule by replacing one of the multiple jobs currently displayed on the screen in a schedule format based on a user instruction. In this case, the user specifies the position where the interrupt job is inserted by dragging the object corresponding to the interrupt job on the screen. Also, in FIG. 4B, the length of the object corresponding to the job in the time direction (the width in the time direction in the schedule format display) is the execution time of the job. It is possible to replace a job that requires a printing time similar to that of the interrupt job, such as job 5 in the figure, with the interrupt job. This configuration simplifies the addition of an interrupt job. Furthermore, after the user specifies the position where the interrupt job is to be inserted, the server 12 changes the positions of other jobs on the schedule as necessary. The server 12 adjusts the positions of other jobs appropriately, for example, according to preset rules to match the daily operating hours of the printing device 102. Alternatively, the server 12 may adjust the positions of other jobs based on user instructions. The server 12 displays on the screen any jobs that would extend beyond the operating hours due to the insertion of the interrupt job or subsequent adjustments, informing the user that they extend beyond the operating hours. This configuration allows for safer schedule adjustments based on user instructions.

[0047] The server 12 also receives an instruction from the user to change the order of job processing, as shown in FIG. 5 . FIG. 5 shows an example of a screen for receiving an instruction to change the order from the user. As shown in the figure, the user rearranges the order of jobs by dragging the object corresponding to the job whose order is to be changed. This allows the server 12 to receive an instruction from the user to change the order of jobs. This configuration simplifies job rearrangement. Furthermore, as described above, in this example, if the order of jobs is rearranged by adding an interrupt job (an additional job) or changing the order of jobs, the server 12 recalculates the print length and ink consumption corresponding to the predicted media consumption value and predicted ink consumption value according to the changed job order, and displays them on the screen. This makes it easier and safer to change the job schedule.

[0048] As described above, the server 12 may also acquire printing-related performance values ​​from jobs that have already been printed. In this case, the server 12 may display information based on the actual printing time and actual ink consumption, which are the actual values ​​of printing time and ink consumption, in association with the executed jobs on a screen that displays jobs in a schedule format, as shown in FIG. 6 . FIG. 6 shows another example of content displayed on the screen by the server 12. In the illustrated example, the server 12 displays the actual printing time corresponding to each executed job on the screen using an object that indicates the actual printing time by its length in the time direction, similar to the object indicating the job. In this example, the server 12 also displays information related to the actual media consumption on the screen. In the illustrated example, the server 12 displays the actual printing length, which corresponds to the sum of the actual media consumption values, and the actual ink consumption, which corresponds to the sum of the actual ink consumption values, for multiple jobs that have already been executed in the daily schedule.

[0049] As described above, the print execution unit 14 of the printing system 10 may include multiple printing devices 102. In this case, the server 12 distributes jobs it manages to multiple printing devices 102, as shown in FIG. 7 . FIG. 7 shows an example of the content displayed on the screen by the server 12 when printing is performed using multiple printing devices 102. In the example shown, the server 12 distributes multiple jobs, indicated as Jobs 1 to 9, to n printing devices 102, indicated as Printers 1 to n in the figure. As described above, the print execution unit 14 may also include multiple RIP PCs 104. In this case, as shown in FIG. 8A, for example, the multiple RIP PCs 104 manage different jobs in a queue format. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of the content displayed on the screen by the server 12 when the print execution unit 14 includes multiple RIP PCs 104. FIG. 8A shows an example of jobs managed by multiple RIP PCs 104, identified as PC1 and PC2 in the figure. FIG. 8B shows an example in which the server 12 displays the multiple jobs shown in FIG. 8A on its screen. In the illustrated example, before the server 12 adjusts the schedule, the RIP PC 104 corresponding to PC1 manages multiple jobs, indicated as jobs 1-1 to 1-n in the figure, in a queue format. The RIP PC 104 corresponding to PC2 manages multiple jobs, indicated as jobs 2-1 to 2-n in the figure, in a queue format. In this example, the print execution unit 14 has multiple printing devices 102, indicated as printers 1 to n in the figure. These printing devices 102 are connected to any of the RIP PCs 104 in the print execution unit 14 and perform printing corresponding to the jobs based on the RIP-generated data received from the RIP PC 104. The server 12 then allocates the jobs managed by the multiple RIP PCs 104 to multiple printing devices 102, as shown in the figure.

[0050] By allocating jobs in this manner, the server 12 can manage the job processing schedule even when the print execution unit 14 has multiple printing devices 102 or multiple RIP PCs 104. The server 12 feeds back the job processing schedule to the RIP PC 104, and the RIP PC 104 causes the multiple printing devices 102 to print according to the schedule. The schedule shown in Figures 7 and 8 is for one day. The server 12 manages schedules similar to those shown in Figures 7 and 8 over multiple days, and displays the schedule for a day specified by the user on the screen. The server 12 may also display schedules for multiple days on one screen.

[0051] Next, supplementary explanations and explanations of variations regarding the configuration and operation described above will be provided. For convenience of explanation, the following examples may be referred to as the present example, including the variations described above and below. As described above, the RIP PC 104 of the print execution unit 14 manages jobs in a queue format. The RIP PC 104 can also estimate the time required for printing and the amount of ink consumed as predicted values ​​for each job. Therefore, if the user were to aggregate the predicted values ​​for each job, it would be possible to adjust job schedules and create production plans without using the server 12, although this would require some effort. However, even if the predicted values ​​for each job are expressed numerically, calculating the total time and ink consumed when printing multiple jobs consecutively is complicated. Furthermore, after creating a production plan, in order to execute printing as planned, the user must manually rearrange the order of the jobs managed by the RIP PC 104 in a queue format and specify the time for processing. This can result in significant effort even at the printing stage.

[0052] In contrast, in this example, by displaying multiple jobs in a schedule format, the completion time of each job can be more clearly shown to the user. Furthermore, the server 12 adjusts the job schedule based on user instructions, making it easier to create a production plan. Furthermore, by displaying the ink consumption and print length of multiple jobs processed consecutively in the schedule on the screen and updating these displays to match the changed schedule when the user changes the job order, production plans that take ink and media consumption into account can be more easily created. Furthermore, even if an interruption occurs or an unexpected problem occurs, production plans can be quickly re-created. Furthermore, as described above, in this example, the schedule adjusted by the server 12 is also reflected in the RIP PC 104, allowing the RIP PC 104 to process jobs according to the schedule. Furthermore, the timing of printing by the printing device 102 can be easily adjusted to suit the business hours of the business using the printing device 102 or the convenience of the user using the printing device 102. For example, it is conceivable to find a suitable job and rearrange the order of jobs so that the printing process of the printing device 102 is completed before the user gets home (for example, 30 minutes before). In this case, too, by performing an operation to adjust the schedule on the server 12, the order and timing of job processing by the RIP PC 104 can be changed without performing a direct operation on the RIP PC 104. In other words, according to this example, the printing order in which printing is actually performed on the printing device 102 can be changed simply by rearranging the order of jobs displayed in schedule format.

[0053] As described above, the server 12 in this example displays jobs in chronological order on the screen based on the estimated time for each job. The server 12 may arrange jobs with a time gap between them, as necessary. Depending on the configuration of the printing device 102, it may be necessary to perform certain printing preparations after printing one job and before starting printing the next job. For example, in a configuration in which printing is performed while changing media, such as a flatbed (FB) printing device 102, it may be necessary to change the media after printing one job and before printing the next job. In such cases, it is preferable for the server 12 to arrange jobs taking into account the time required for changing the media, etc. It is also preferable for the server 12 to appropriately consider the time required for tasks other than changing the media, depending on the model of the printing device 102, etc. Furthermore, when the printing device 102 is operated continuously for a long period of time to print multiple jobs, it is preferable to perform periodic maintenance on the printing device 102. It may also be preferable to perform maintenance during the operating hours of a day. Therefore, the server 12 may, as necessary, leave time for maintenance between at least some of the jobs. Furthermore, maintenance of the printing device 102 includes not only periodic maintenance but also maintenance performed as needed. The schedule management program of the server 12 accepts user instructions specifying the timing of maintenance (maintenance time). The server 12 then appropriately changes the job schedule so that job processing stops at the specified maintenance timing, and displays the changed schedule on the screen. This configuration reduces the impact on job schedules even when emergency maintenance is required due to unexpected work, etc. The time required for maintenance may differ depending on whether a user is present to perform the maintenance or whether the maintenance is performed automatically using a robot or the like.

[0054] Furthermore, with regard to job scheduling, the server 12 may notify the user of the job processing status in accordance with the schedule management program. For example, the server 12 may notify the user by sending an email or other means when printing of a specified job is completed based on the user's instructions. The server 12 may also notify the user of the completion of work when printing of the last job in a day's operating hours is completed. The server 12 may also further notify the user of the timing to replace or refill ink or media. In this case, after allocating jobs to the schedule in accordance with the schedule management program, the server 12 notifies the user of the timing to replace or refill ink or media based on the predicted ink consumption and media consumption values. This configuration allows the user to systematically replace or refill ink or media.

[0055] In some cases, it may be necessary to prioritize certain jobs among many jobs. In such cases, the server 12 may receive an instruction from the user to specify the jobs to be prioritized (priority jobs). The schedule management program of the server 12 determines the position of the priority jobs in the schedule so that the priority jobs are processed earlier. "Earlier in the schedule" means that the jobs are executed earlier in the schedule than if they were not designated as priority jobs. Depending on the job content, it may be preferable to execute multiple jobs that have a predetermined relationship consecutively without any intervening jobs. For example, this may be the case when multiple jobs print consecutively on a roll-type medium. Even when leaf-type medium is used, multiple jobs may print on a single medium. In such cases, the multiple jobs specified by the user may be grouped and the job order may be determined. For example, when the order of jobs is changed or an additional job is added, the server 12 may adjust the job schedule so that other jobs do not intervene between the grouped jobs. This configuration allows for more appropriate production planning tailored to the user's desired conditions.

[0056] As described above, in this example, displaying jobs in a schedule format and changing the schedule may be performed after some of the managed jobs have been executed on the printing device 102. In this case, the server 12 displays information based on the actual printing time and actual ink consumption, which are performance values ​​for the executed jobs, on a screen displaying jobs in a schedule format, in association with the executed jobs. These performance values ​​may also be considered production results related to the jobs. Such production results may also be displayed in list format (list display) using the functions of the RIP PC 104 or the server 12. For example, when displaying a schedule for job processing, the production results may also be displayed in schedule format. This configuration facilitates comparison of planned and actual results. This also makes it easier to analyze discrepancies between planned and actual results. For example, if the difference between the predicted time calculated for a certain job and the actual printing time, which is the performance value during actual printing, becomes large, the server 12 may feed back the results to the RIP PC 104, and the RIP PC 104 may perform an analysis to analyze the cause of the discrepancy. It is also possible to analyze the causes of the discrepancy in the server 12. By referring to the results obtained from such an analysis, it becomes possible to calculate a predicted time value with higher accuracy when calculating a predicted time value for the same or similar job in the RIP PC 104. Furthermore, such an analysis and the use of the analysis results can be similarly applied to other predicted values, such as a predicted ink consumption value.

[0057] Furthermore, the comparison of predicted values ​​and actual values ​​as described above may be performed outside of the screen where the server 12 displays multiple jobs in a schedule format. For example, the server 12 may manage job history and link the operation of obtaining predicted values ​​for jobs with the operation of managing job history, thereby comparing plans and actual results. Furthermore, managing job history may visualize work performance and reduce the effort required for repeat work. One example of managing job history is to save job history and job data. Furthermore, when a repeat job occurs, data on processed jobs corresponding to the repeat job can be used. Job history may be saved in a format such as a CSV file. A repeat job can be easily identified by a user specifying the job in the job history. Furthermore, the repeat job can be quickly printed by extracting it from the job history into a RIP processing program. In this case, the server 12 may acquire and analyze history information from a user with their consent. It is also possible to display thumbnail images of the images printed by a job in the job history, etc. This configuration makes it easier to identify the contents of the jobs included in the history.

[0058] The schedule management program executed by the server 12 in this example can also be considered a tallying application that tallies jobs input to the RIP PC 104. In this case, the RIP PC 104 calculates the printing time and ink usage required to print an image for each job input in any order and uploads the results to the tallying application. As described above, the server 12 in this example displays information to the user and accepts instructions from the user via a user interface displayed on the screen of the RIP PC 104, for example. In this case, a web server, for example, can be used as the server 12. In this case, the schedule management program (tallying application) runs on the web server and displays, in a schedule format, the printing time and other information required to print each managed job in order on the screen of a client computer. The schedule management program executed by the server 12 communicates with the RIP processing program executed by the RIP PC 104 and provides feedback to the RIP processing program on the results of processing based on data obtained from the RIP processing program.

[0059] As described above, the server 12 in this example displays jobs on the screen in chronological order based on a time prediction value. This time prediction value is a prediction of the time required for the printing device 102 to print based on the job. In this regard, in order to print based on a job, the RIP PC 104 must perform RIP processing, etc., before the printing device 102 prints. The time required for RIP processing is typically shorter than the time required for printing on the printing device 102. Therefore, when printing multiple jobs consecutively, the RIP PC 104 can typically perform RIP processing for the next job while the printing device 102 is printing one job. Therefore, when determining a schedule for processing jobs, the server 12 may determine a schedule for multiple jobs that are printed consecutively without including the time required for RIP processing between jobs. Furthermore, the server 12 may, if necessary, take into account the time required for RIP processing for at least some of the jobs. For example, it is possible to consider the time required for RIP processing for the first job processed in a day. In this case, the server 12 determines the job schedule so that the RIP PC 104 can perform RIP processing for the first job during the operating hours of the day before printing the first job. This configuration allows for more accurate production planning involving multiple jobs. As described above, the server 12 may also handle schedules for multiple jobs, including repeat jobs. For repeat jobs, RIP processing can be omitted by saving the results of RIP processing for previously executed jobs. Furthermore, by selecting a repeat job as the first job to be processed in the day, printing can be started immediately on the printing device 102 immediately after the start of the operating hours, without waiting for RIP processing. Therefore, the server 12 may determine the job schedule so that repeat jobs are assigned first during the operating hours.

[0060] The present invention can be suitably used in a program that causes a computer to manage jobs that cause a printing device to perform printing.

[0061] 10...printing system, 102...printing device, 104...RIP PC, 12...server, 14...printing execution unit, 20...wide area network

Claims

1. A program that causes a computer to manage jobs to be printed by a printing device, the program causing the computer to perform the following processes: a predicted value acquisition process that acquires a predicted time value, which is a predicted value of the time required for printing based on the job on the printing device, and a predicted ink consumption value, which is a predicted value of the amount of ink to be consumed, for each of the multiple jobs; a schedule display process that displays information related to the multiple jobs on a screen in a schedule format that shows the timing of processing each of the jobs in chronological order; and a job order change process that receives an instruction from a user to change the order of any of the multiple jobs displayed in schedule format, and rearranges the order of the jobs based on the user's instruction; and the program causing the computer to perform the schedule display process that arranges the multiple jobs on the screen in chronological order based on the predicted time value for each job, and displays information based on the acquired predicted ink consumption value on the screen.

2. The program described in claim 1, characterized in that the program is a process for calculating a total ink consumption predicted value, which is a predicted value of the total amount of ink consumed by multiple jobs that are processed consecutively, and further causes the computer to perform a total ink consumption prediction process for calculating the total ink consumption predicted value for at least a portion of a period displayed in schedule format in the schedule display process based on the ink consumption predicted value corresponding to the jobs included in the portion of the period; in the schedule display process, information based on the total ink consumption predicted value is displayed on the screen in association with the jobs included in the portion of the period displayed in schedule format; and when the order of any of the jobs is changed in the job order change process, the program causes the computer to perform the total ink consumption prediction process and the schedule display process again, thereby displaying information based on the total ink consumption predicted value aligned with the changed order of each job on the screen.

3. When the computer that performs the job order change processing is defined as a sequence processing computer, and the computer that performs RIP processing based on the jobs is defined as a RIP computer, the program described in claim 1 further causes the sequence processing computer to perform a processing order designation process that specifies the order in which each of the jobs will be processed to the RIP computer, the RIP computer performs RIP processing corresponding to each of the jobs in accordance with the order specified in the processing order designation process, in accordance with the order in which the multiple jobs are displayed on the screen in schedule format in the schedule display process, and causes the printing device to perform printing corresponding to each of the jobs based on the data generated in the RIP processing, the predicted value acquisition process acquires the predicted time value and the predicted ink consumption value corresponding to each of the jobs from the RIP computer, and when the order of any of the jobs is changed in the job order change processing, the processing order designation process specifies the order in which the multiple jobs will be processed to the RIP computer in accordance with the order in which the multiple jobs will be arranged after the change.

4. The program described in claim 1 further causes the computer to perform a performance value acquisition process that acquires performance values ​​related to printing after printing corresponding to each of the jobs has been executed on the printing device, and acquires as the performance values ​​the actual printing time, which is the time required to print corresponding to each of the jobs, and the actual ink consumption, which is the amount of ink consumed during printing; and in the schedule display process, displays information based on the actual printing time and the actual ink consumption on the screen, in association with the jobs for which printing has been executed.

5. The program according to claim 1, further comprising: a process for acquiring actual values ​​related to printing after printing corresponding to each of the jobs has been executed on the printing device, the computer further performing an actual value acquisition process for acquiring, as the actual values, the actual printing time, which is the time required for printing corresponding to each of the jobs, and the actual ink consumption, which is the amount of ink consumed during printing; and when the multiple jobs displayed on the screen in the schedule display process include a same-content job, which is a job with the same content as an executed job, which is a job that has been printed on the printing device in the past, the actual printing time and the actual ink consumption corresponding to the executed job acquired by the actual value acquisition process are used as the time predicted value and the ink consumption predicted value corresponding to the same-content job in the predicted value acquisition process.

6. The program described in claim 1, characterized in that in the predicted value acquisition process, a media consumption predicted value is further acquired, which is a predicted value of the consumption amount of the media to be printed when printing corresponding to each of the jobs is executed on the printing device, and in the schedule display process, the media consumption predicted value is further displayed on the screen in association with each of the jobs displayed in schedule format.

7. The program according to claim 1, further comprising: causing the computer to perform an additional job acceptance process that accepts the addition of a new job, that is, an additional job, after displaying the plurality of jobs in a schedule format in the schedule display process; and wherein, in the additional job acceptance process, the additional job is inserted into the middle of the schedule of the plurality of jobs displayed on the screen at the time the additional job is added, based on a user's instruction.

8. A schedule management method for managing jobs to be printed by a printing device, comprising: a predicted value acquisition step of acquiring a predicted time value, which is a predicted value of the time required for printing based on the job in the printing device, and a predicted ink consumption value, which is a predicted value of the amount of ink to be consumed, for each of the multiple jobs; a schedule display step of displaying information related to the multiple jobs on a screen in a schedule format that displays the timing of processing each of the jobs in chronological order; and a job order change step of receiving an instruction from a user to change the order of any of the multiple jobs displayed in schedule format, and rearranging the order of the jobs based on the user's instruction; wherein in the schedule display step, the multiple jobs are displayed on the screen in chronological order based on the predicted time value for each job, and information based on the acquired predicted ink consumption value is displayed on the screen.

9. A schedule management device that manages jobs to be printed by a printing device, comprising: a process for acquiring a predicted time value, which is a predicted value of the time required for printing based on the job on the printing device, and a predicted ink consumption value, which is a predicted value of the amount of ink to be consumed, for each of the multiple jobs; a predicted value acquisition process for acquiring the predicted time value and the predicted ink consumption value for each of the multiple jobs; a schedule display process for displaying information related to the multiple jobs on a screen in a schedule format that displays the timing of processing each of the jobs in chronological order; and a job order change process for receiving an instruction from a user to change the order of any of the multiple jobs displayed in schedule format, and rearranging the order of the jobs based on the user's instruction; and wherein the schedule display process displays the multiple jobs on the screen in chronological order based on the predicted time value for each job, and displays information based on the acquired predicted ink consumption value on the screen.

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