JP6432361B2 - Image forming system, job processing program, and computer-readable recording medium recording job processing program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming system, a job processing program, and a computer-readable recording medium on which the job processing program is recorded.

  There is a technology in which a server connected to a plurality of MFPs (Multi-Function Peripherals) via a network selects one MFP from the plurality of MFPs and executes a print job. For example, a server that has received print data from a mobile terminal such as a smartphone selects an optimum MFP for executing a print job based on the contents of the print data and the performance of the MFP, and executes the print job.

  However, with this technique, a print job is executed by an arbitrary MFP on the network. For example, when there are a large number of MFPs on the network, the user may not be able to grasp the MFP that executes the print job.

  In relation to this, in Patent Document 1 below, when a user photographs a surrounding MFP with a portable terminal, the photographed MFP is recognized, and the recognized URL (Uniform Resource Locator) of the MFP is transmitted from the server to the portable terminal. The technology notified to is disclosed. According to this technology, if print data is transmitted from a mobile terminal with the notified URL as a destination, a print job is executed by the MFP photographed by the mobile terminal. Therefore, the user selects an MFP that executes the print job. I can grasp it.

  However, in the technique of Patent Document 1, the position of the mobile terminal is specified using GPS (Global Positioning System), and the MFP photographed by the mobile terminal is recognized. For this reason, the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1 is not preferable because the MFP captured by the mobile terminal may not be correctly recognized and the URL of the MFP may not be correctly notified due to the limitation of the GPS position detection accuracy.

  Therefore, when a single MFP is selected from a plurality of MFPs on the network and a print job is executed, it is desired that the user can surely understand the MFP that executes the print job.

JP2013-120501A

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems. Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to ensure that a user knows an image forming apparatus that executes a print job when selecting and executing at least one image forming apparatus from a plurality of image forming apparatuses on a network. An image forming system, a job processing program, and a computer-readable recording medium on which the job processing program is recorded.

  The above object of the present invention is achieved by the following means.

  (1) a plurality of image forming apparatuses, a server that selects at least one image forming apparatus from the plurality of image forming apparatuses and executes a print job, and a terminal device that transmits print data to the server In the image forming system, each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses includes a light emitting unit that blinks in a blinking pattern that is different for each image forming apparatus, and the terminal device includes the plurality of light emitting units that are blinking. Among the image forming apparatuses, an imaging unit that images at least two image forming apparatuses, and a transmission unit that transmits information about the blinking pattern obtained by imaging the image forming apparatus by the imaging unit to the server. The server stores a flashing pattern that is different for each image forming apparatus and identification information of the image forming apparatus in association with each other; The receiving unit that receives information related to the blinking pattern transmitted by the transmitting unit, and the image formation imaged by the imaging unit from the information related to the blinking pattern received by the receiving unit with reference to the storage unit A specifying unit that specifies identification information of the apparatus, and an instruction unit that selects at least one image forming apparatus from among the image forming apparatuses whose identification information has been specified by the specifying unit, and causes the print job to be executed. An image forming system.

  (2) The transmission unit transmits identification information of the terminal device together with information on the blinking pattern, the reception unit receives identification information of the terminal device together with information on the blinking pattern, and the server The registration control unit according to (1), further including a registration control unit that associates the identification information of the terminal device received by the reception unit and the identification information of the image forming device specified by the specifying unit with each other and registers them in the registration unit. Image forming system.

  (3) The transmission unit transmits the print data together with information about the blinking pattern, the reception unit receives the print data together with information about the blinking pattern, and the instruction unit is received by the reception unit. The image forming system according to (1), wherein the at least one image forming apparatus executes the print job including the print data.

  (4) The transmission unit transmits the terminal device identification information together with the information about the blinking pattern and the print data, and the reception unit identifies the terminal device together with the information about the blinking pattern and the print data. Information is received, and the terminal device determines whether or not to register the identification information of the terminal device received by the receiving unit and the identification information of the image forming device specified by the specifying unit in association with each other. And confirming that the identification unit registers the identification information, the server registers the identification information of the terminal device and the identification information of the image forming apparatus in association with each other. The image forming system according to (3), further including a registration control unit that registers in the unit.

  (5) The identification information of the image forming apparatus registered in the registration unit is the registration unit until the identification information of the image forming apparatus is deleted or new identification information of the image forming apparatus is added. The image forming system according to (2) or (4), which is held in

  (6) When the identification information of the new image forming apparatus is added to the registration unit, the identification information of the new image forming apparatus is added to the identification information of the image forming apparatus registered in the registration unit. The image according to (5), wherein the first mode to be added and the second mode in which the registered identification information of the image forming apparatus is replaced by the identification information of the new image forming apparatus can be selected. Forming system.

  (7) When the image forming apparatus receives the print job, the image forming apparatus further includes a light emission control unit that causes the light emitting unit to blink in a blinking pattern unique to the identification information of the terminal device. When the image forming apparatus in which the light emitting unit is blinking with the blinking pattern is captured by the imaging unit, the blinking pattern is analyzed and the image forming apparatus that is executing the print job is notified to the user. The image forming system according to (2) or (4), further including a first notification unit.

  (8) The light emission control unit changes the blinking pattern of the light emitting unit according to a progress status of the print job, and the terminal device is configured such that the image forming apparatus in which the light emitting unit is blinking is the imaging unit. The image forming system according to (7), further including a second notification unit that analyzes the blinking pattern and notifies the user of the progress status of the print job when the image is captured.

  (9) The server further includes an assigning unit that gives priority to the at least two image forming apparatuses picked up by the image pickup unit, and the instruction unit sets the priority given to the assigning unit. The image forming system according to any one of (1) to (8), wherein the at least one image forming apparatus is selected based on the at least one image forming apparatus.

  (10) When the at least two image forming apparatuses are imaged in a plurality of times by the imaging unit, the assigning unit gives higher priority to the image forming apparatus in which the order of imaging by the imaging unit is earlier The image forming system according to (9) above.

  (11) The image forming system according to (10), wherein when the plurality of image forming apparatuses are simultaneously imaged, the assigning unit assigns the same priority to the plurality of image forming apparatuses.

  (12) The terminal device further includes a reception unit that receives selection of the image forming apparatus by a user, and the assigning unit assigns a higher priority to the image forming apparatus that is earlier in the order of selection by the user. The image forming system according to (9) above.

  (13) The terminal device further includes a detection unit that detects the light emission intensity of the light emitting unit, and the assigning unit assigns a higher priority to the image forming apparatus having a higher light emission intensity. The image forming system described in 1.

  (14) When a plurality of print data is transmitted from the terminal device to the server, the assigning unit assigns the highest priority to the image forming apparatus that has executed the latest print job, and the remaining image forming apparatuses The image forming system according to (9), wherein a higher priority is given to the image forming apparatus that is closer to the installation location than the image forming apparatus that has executed the latest print job.

  (15) a plurality of image forming apparatuses, a server that selects at least one image forming apparatus from the plurality of image forming apparatuses and executes a print job, and a terminal device that transmits print data to the server A job processing program to be executed by the server included in the image forming system, wherein at least two image forming apparatuses among the plurality of image forming apparatuses in which the light emitting unit is blinking in a blinking pattern different for each image forming apparatus, A procedure (a) for receiving information on the blinking pattern obtained by imaging by the imaging unit of the terminal device, and a blinking pattern different for each image forming apparatus and identification information of the image forming apparatus are stored in association with each other. From the information regarding the blinking pattern received in the procedure (a), the imaging unit Selecting at least one image forming apparatus from among the image forming apparatuses identified in step (b) and the identification information identified in step (b); A job processing program for causing the server to execute the procedure (c) for executing the print job.

  (16) In the procedure (a), identification information of the terminal device is received together with information on the blinking pattern, and the job processing program receives the identification information of the terminal device and the procedure received in the procedure (a). The job processing program according to (15), further causing the server to execute a procedure (d) of associating the identification information of the image forming apparatus specified in (b) with each other and registering it in a registration unit.

  (17) In the procedure (a), the print data is received together with information on the blinking pattern, and in the procedure (c), the print job including the print data received in the procedure (a) is at least the The job processing program according to (15), executed by one image forming apparatus.

  (18) In the procedure (a), the terminal device identification information is received together with the information regarding the blinking pattern and the print data, and the terminal device identification information received in the procedure (a) and the procedure ( When the user is inquired whether to register the identification information of the image forming apparatus specified in b) in association with each other, and the job processing program confirms that the identification information is registered, the terminal The job processing program according to (17), further causing the server to execute a procedure (e) for registering the identification information of the apparatus and the identification information of the image forming apparatus in association with each other.

  (19) The identification information of the image forming apparatus registered in the registration unit is the registration unit until the identification information of the image forming apparatus is deleted or new identification information of the image forming apparatus is added. The job processing program according to (16) or (18), which is held in

  (20) When the identification information of the new image forming apparatus is added to the registration unit, the identification information of the new image forming apparatus is added to the identification information of the image forming apparatus registered in the registration unit. The job according to (19), wherein the first mode to be added and the second mode in which the registered identification information of the image forming apparatus is replaced by the identification information of the new image forming apparatus can be selected. Processing program.

( 21 ) The server is further caused to execute a procedure (f) for assigning priority to the at least two image forming apparatuses imaged by the imaging unit, and the procedure (c) is assigned in the procedure (f). The job processing program according to any one of (15) to ( 20 ), wherein the at least one image forming apparatus is selected based on the priority.

( 22 ) When the at least two image forming apparatuses are imaged in a plurality of times by the imaging unit, in the step (f), the image forming apparatus having the earlier order of imaging by the imaging unit has a higher priority. The job processing program according to ( 21 ), wherein:

( 23 ) The job processing program according to ( 22 ), wherein when the plurality of image forming apparatuses are simultaneously imaged, the same priority is given to the plurality of image forming apparatuses in the procedure (f).

( 24 ) The job processing program according to ( 21 ), wherein in the step (f), the image forming apparatus that is selected earlier by the user via the terminal device is given higher priority.

( 25 ) The job processing program according to ( 21 ), wherein in the step (f), the image forming apparatus having higher light emission intensity of the light emitting unit is given higher priority.

( 26 ) When a plurality of print data is transmitted from the terminal device to the server, the highest priority is given to the image forming apparatus that has executed the latest print job in the procedure (f), and the remaining image formation is performed. As for the apparatus, the job processing program according to ( 21 ), wherein higher priority is given to the image forming apparatus that is closer to the installation location than the image forming apparatus that has executed the latest print job.

( 27 ) A computer-readable recording medium on which the job processing program according to any one of (15) to ( 26 ) is recorded.

  According to the present invention, when at least two image forming apparatuses whose light emitting units are blinking are photographed by the terminal device, a print job is executed by any of the photographed image forming apparatuses. Accordingly, when at least one image forming apparatus is selected from a plurality of image forming apparatuses on the network and a print job is executed, the user can surely grasp the image forming apparatus that executes the print job.

1 is a diagram illustrating an overall configuration of an image forming system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of a portable terminal. It is a block diagram which shows the memory content of the memory | storage part of a portable terminal. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of a server. It is a block diagram which shows the memory content of the memory | storage part of a server. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an MFP. 3 is a block diagram showing storage contents of a storage unit of an MFP. FIG. 6 is a sequence chart for explaining an outline of the operation of the image forming system. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a moving image shot by two or more MFPs. It is a figure for demonstrating the process which transmits the information regarding a blink pattern. It is a figure for demonstrating the process which collates a blink pattern. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen for notifying that registration of an MFP has been completed. FIG. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen for notifying an MFP that is executing a print job. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of a job request process. It is a flowchart following FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of a job distribution process. It is a flowchart following FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of a job execution process. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of performance and status of an MFP. FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of print data. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining job distribution processing by a general image forming system. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen for inquiring about addition / deletion of MFP. FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen which inquires about an addition mode. FIG. 10 is a diagram for describing processing for deleting an MFP. It is a figure for demonstrating the blink pattern of the light emission part of MFP. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the job request process which concerns on the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. 27 is a flowchart subsequent to FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the job distribution process which concerns on the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 29 is a flowchart subsequent to FIG. 28. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for assigning priority to MFPs. FIG.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of an image forming system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming system according to the present embodiment includes a mobile terminal 100, a server 200, and MFPs 300A to 300J (hereinafter may be collectively referred to as MFP 300). Server 200 and MFPs 300 </ b> A to 300 </ b> J are connected to each other via network 400 so that they can communicate with each other. The mobile terminal 100 is connected to the network 400 via the access point 450 by wireless communication such as Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity).

  The network 400 is a LAN (Local Area Network) in which computers and network devices are connected according to standards such as Ethernet (registered trademark), FDDI (Fiber Distributed Data Interface), and Wi-Fi, or LANs are connected by a dedicated line. It consists of WAN (Wide Area Network). Note that the types and number of devices connected to the network 400 are not limited to the example shown in FIG.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the mobile terminal 100. The mobile terminal 100 includes a control unit 110, a storage unit 120, an operation display unit 130, an imaging unit 140, and a communication unit 150 as terminal devices, which are mutually connected via a bus 160 for exchanging signals. It is connected.

  The control unit 110 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and controls the above-described units and performs various arithmetic processes according to a program. The storage unit 120 includes a RAM (Random Access Memory) that temporarily stores programs and data as a work area, an SSD (Solid State Drive) that stores various programs and various data, and the like.

  The operation display unit 130 includes a touch panel and various buttons, and is used for displaying various information and inputting various instructions.

  The imaging unit 140 is configured by a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) camera or the like, and shoots a subject to generate still image data or moving image data.

  The communication unit 150 is an interface for communicating with other devices via the network 400.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the storage contents of the storage unit 120 of the mobile terminal 100. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the storage unit 120 of the mobile terminal 100 has a user authentication program 121 for authenticating a user, an image analysis program 122 for analyzing image data obtained by photographing the MFP 300 with the imaging unit 140, In addition, a server communication program 123 for transmitting various data to the server 200 is stored.

  In the present embodiment, the control unit 110 of the mobile terminal 100 identifies a MFP that is executing a print job and notifies the user of a first notification unit and a second notification that notifies the user of the progress of the print job. It functions as a part. Each function of the first and second notification units is exhibited when the CPU of the control unit 110 executes a corresponding program. In addition, the communication unit 150 of the mobile terminal 100 functions as a transmission unit that transmits information regarding the blinking pattern obtained by photographing the MFP 300 by the imaging unit 140 to the server 200.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the server 200. The server 200 includes a control unit 210, a storage unit 220, and a communication unit 230, which are connected to each other via a bus 240 for exchanging signals. Except for the point that the storage unit 220 further includes an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or the like, the above-described units of the server 200 have the same functions as the above-described units of the mobile terminal 100, and thus description thereof is omitted.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the storage contents of the storage unit 220 of the server 200. As shown in FIG. 5, the storage unit 220 of the server 200 has a mobile terminal communication program 221 for receiving various data from the mobile terminal 100, a flashing pattern matching program 222 for identifying the MFP 300 by matching the flashing pattern, An MFP communication program 223 for transmitting various data to the MFP 300, a job analysis program 224 for selecting an optimum MFP for executing a print job, and the like are stored. Further, the storage unit 220 of the server 200 stores the IP address information 225 of the MFP 300, the blinking pattern information 226 associated with the IP address information 225 of the MFP 300, the IP address information 227 of the mobile terminal 100, and the IP address information of the mobile terminal 100. MFP association information 228 for associating the MFP 300 with the IP address information of the MFP 300 is stored.

  The server 200 stores (stores) information such as the IP address information 225 of the MFP 300, the associated blinking pattern information 226, and the MFP association information 228 for each of the plurality of MFPs 300. It can be managed in advance as a group.

  In the present embodiment, the control unit 210 of the server 200 functions as a specifying unit, a registration control unit, and an instruction unit. Here, the specifying unit specifies the IP address of the MFP from the blinking pattern of the MFP 300. The registration control unit registers the IP address of MFP 300 and the IP address of portable terminal 100 in storage unit 220 as a registration unit in association with each other. The instruction unit selects one MFP from the MFPs registered in the storage unit 220 and causes the print job to be executed. The functions of the above-described units are exhibited when the CPU of the control unit 210 executes a corresponding program. In addition, the communication unit 230 of the server 200 functions as a reception unit that receives information regarding the blinking pattern transmitted from the mobile terminal 100.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the MFP 300. Since the MFPs 300A to 300F have the same configuration, the MFP 300A will be described below as a representative.

  The MFP 300A includes a control unit 310, a storage unit 320, an operation panel unit 330, a light emitting unit 340, an image reading unit 350, an image forming unit 360, and a communication unit 370 as image forming apparatuses, which exchange signals. Are connected to each other via a bus 380. Note that, of the respective units of the MFP 300A, the portions having the same functions as those of the respective units of the mobile terminal 100 are not described in order to avoid duplicate description.

  The operation panel unit 330 includes a touch panel, a numeric keypad, a start button, a stop button, and the like, and is used for displaying various information and inputting various instructions.

  The light emitting unit 340 is composed of a light emitting element such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode) and blinks in a blinking pattern that is different for each MFP.

  The image reading unit 350 applies light to a document set at a predetermined reading position with a light source such as a fluorescent lamp, and photoelectrically converts the reflected light with an imaging device such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Devices) image sensor. Image data is generated from the signal.

  The image forming unit 360 forms an image based on various data on a recording sheet such as paper by using a well-known image forming process such as an electrophotographic process including charging, exposure, development, transfer, and fixing processes. To do. For example, the image forming unit 360 forms an image based on image data obtained by rasterizing print data by the control unit 310 on a sheet.

  FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the contents stored in the storage unit 320 of the MFP 300. As shown in FIG. 7, the storage unit 320 of the MFP 300 stores an overall control program 321 for controlling the overall operation of the MFP 300, a blinking control program 322 for controlling the blinking pattern of the light emitting unit 340, and the like. . The storage unit 320 of the MFP 300 stores blinking pattern information 323 unique to each MFP.

  In the present embodiment, the control unit 310 of the MFP 300 functions as a light emission control unit that causes the light emitting unit 340 to blink in a predetermined blinking pattern. The function of the light emission control unit is exhibited when the CPU of the control unit 310 executes the blinking control program 322.

  Note that the mobile terminal 100, the server 200, and the MFP 300 may include components other than the above-described components, or some of the above-described components may not be included.

  In the image forming system configured as described above, when print data is transmitted from the portable terminal 100 to the server 200, the server 200 selects one MFP from the plurality of MFPs 300A to 300J on the network 400. To execute the print job. At this time, the user of the portable terminal 100 narrows the MFP candidates for executing the print job to the photographed MFPs by photographing two or more MFPs among the MFPs 300A to 300J on the network 400 with the portable terminal 100. Can do. The operation of the image forming system will be described below with reference to FIGS.

  First, the outline of the operation of the image forming system will be described with reference to the sequence chart of FIG.

  First, the mobile terminal 100 receives an activation instruction of an application program (hereinafter simply referred to as “application”) from the user (S1). The mobile terminal 100 that has received the application activation instruction transmits an application activation start request to the server 200 (S2).

  Receiving the application activation start request from the portable terminal 100, the server 200 instructs the MFP 300 on the network 400 to blink the light emitting unit 340, and transmits different blink pattern information to each MFP 300 (S3, S4).

  Receiving the blinking pattern information, the MFP 300 starts blinking the light emitting unit 340 with a different blinking pattern for each MFP (S5).

  In addition, the server 200 transmits the blinking pattern information to the MFP 300, while returning an application activation permission to the portable terminal 100 (S6). The mobile terminal 100 that has received the application activation permission activates a predetermined application (S7).

  Then, the mobile terminal 100 captures two or more MFPs 300 in which the light emitting unit 340 is blinking (S8). More specifically, the user of the portable terminal 100 takes two or more MFPs 300 that the user desires to execute a print job for a predetermined time with the portable terminal 100. For example, referring to FIG. 1, five MFPs 300 </ b> A to 300 </ b> E among ten MFPs 300 </ b> A to 300 </ b> J existing on the network 400 are photographed by the mobile terminal 100. As a result, as illustrated in FIG. 9, a moving image obtained by capturing two or more MFPs 300 in which the light emitting unit 340 is blinking is acquired.

  Next, the mobile terminal 100 analyzes the captured data and recognizes the blinking pattern of the MFP that has captured the image (S9). Then, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the mobile terminal 100 transmits information regarding the flashing pattern of the captured MFP to the server 200 together with the identification information (IP address) of the mobile terminal 100 (S10).

  The server 200 that has received the information regarding the blinking pattern from the portable terminal 100 checks the blinking pattern indicated by the information regarding the blinking pattern with the blinking pattern stored in the storage unit 220 (S11). As shown in FIG. 11, since the blinking pattern stored in the storage unit 220 of the server 200 is associated with the identification information of the MFP, the identification of the MFP photographed by the mobile terminal 100 is verified by collating the blinking pattern. Information is identified.

  Then, the server 200 registers the identified MFP identification information in the storage unit 220 in association with the identification information of the mobile terminal 100 as the MFP candidate identification information for executing the print job from the mobile terminal 100 (S12). . After completing the MFP registration, the server 200 transmits a registration completion notification to the portable terminal 100 (S13).

  Receiving the registration completion notification, the mobile terminal 100 displays on the touch panel that the registration of the MFP that is a candidate for the output destination of the printed material is completed as shown in FIG. 12 (S14).

  Then, the mobile terminal 100 receives a print instruction from the user (S15). The mobile terminal 100 that has received the print instruction transmits print data such as a PDF (Portable Document Format) file to the server 200 (S16).

  Upon receiving the print data, the server 200 receives the contents of the print data from the MFPs (for example, five MFPs 300A to 300E) registered in the storage unit 220 as candidates for MFPs that execute the print job from the portable terminal 100. Then, based on the performance and status of the MFP, an optimum MFP for executing the print job is selected (S17).

  Then, the server instructs the selected MFP to execute the print job, and transmits the print data (S18, S19).

  Receiving the print data, the MFP 300 changes the blinking pattern of the light emitting unit 340 to a blinking pattern unique to the mobile terminal 100 and executes a print job (S20, S21). Further, the MFP 300 changes the blinking pattern of the light emitting unit 340 according to the progress of the print job.

  On the other hand, after transmitting the print data, the portable terminal 100 again captures the previously captured MFP as the MFP that desires to execute the print job, and analyzes the captured data (S22, S23). By analyzing the shooting data, the MFP 300 in which the light emitting unit blinks in a blinking pattern unique to the mobile terminal 100 is specified as the MFP that is executing the print job.

  Then, as illustrated in FIG. 13, the mobile terminal 100 notifies the user of the MFP 300 in which the light emitting unit 340 is flashing in a flashing pattern unique to the mobile terminal 100 as an MFP executing a print job (S24). Further, by analyzing the blinking pattern, the mobile terminal 100 identifies the progress status of the print job and notifies the user.

  As described above, in the image forming system of the present embodiment, the light emitting unit 340 of the MFP 300 on the network 400 blinks with a blinking pattern that is different for each MFP. Then, two or more MFPs 300 whose light emitting units 340 are blinking with different blinking patterns are photographed by the mobile terminal 100, and the photographed MFPs 300 are registered in the server 200. Thereafter, when print data is transmitted from the portable terminal 100 to the server 200, the server 200 selects one MFP 300 from the registered MFPs 300, and executes a print job. In addition, since the MFP 300 that executes the print job causes the light emitting unit 340 to blink in a blinking pattern unique to the mobile terminal 100, if the MFP 300 is captured again by the mobile terminal 100, the MFP 300 that is executing the print job is identified. The user is notified. Further, since the MFP 300 changes the blinking pattern of the light emitting unit 340 according to the progress of the print job, the progress of the print job is specified and notified to the user.

  Hereinafter, operations of the mobile terminal 100, the server 200, and the MFP 300 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

  First, the operation of the mobile terminal 100 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 14 and 15. FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 are flowcharts showing the procedure of job request processing executed by the mobile terminal 100.

  First, the mobile terminal 100 starts a predetermined application (step S101). More specifically, the mobile terminal 100 communicates with the server 200 and activates a program such as the image analysis program 122.

  Next, the mobile terminal 100 determines whether or not it is new registration (step S102). More specifically, the mobile terminal 100 determines whether an MFP that is a candidate for the output destination of the printed material is already registered in the server 200.

  If it is determined that the registration is a new registration (step S102: YES), the mobile terminal 100 proceeds to the process of step S104. On the other hand, when determining that it is not new registration (step S102: NO), the mobile terminal 100 sets an additional mode (step S103). More specifically, the mobile terminal 100 accepts a selection of “overwrite” or “addition of unregistered” from the user as an additional mode when additionally registering the MFP, and sets the additional mode. . In the present embodiment, the additional mode “overwrite” is set as the initial setting. A detailed description of the process of additionally registering the MFP will be described later.

  Next, the portable terminal 100 captures an MFP candidate (step S104). More specifically, two or more MFPs (for example, five MFPs 300A to 300E) that the user of the portable terminal 100 desires to execute a print job from among the MFPs 300A to 300J on the network 400 are portable terminals. 100 for a certain period of time. At this time, the user may shoot the MFP so that the imaging area of the imaging unit 140 of the mobile terminal 100 includes a plurality of MFPs, or move the mobile terminal 100 and move the imaging areas while shifting the imaging areas. You may shoot continuously. Alternatively, the user may shoot a plurality of MFPs divided into a plurality of times. As described above, in each MFP 300 on the network 400, the light emitting unit 340 blinks in a blinking pattern that is different for each MFP.

  Next, the mobile terminal 100 analyzes the captured image (step S105). More specifically, the mobile terminal 100 analyzes the image data (moving image) obtained by photographing the MFP 300 in the process shown in step S <b> 104 and recognizes the blinking pattern of the light emitting unit 340 of each MFP 300.

  Next, the portable terminal 100 transmits analysis data (step S106). More specifically, the mobile terminal 100 analyzes the captured image analysis data including the information related to the blinking pattern recognized by analyzing the image data in the process shown in step S <b> 105 together with the IP address information of the mobile terminal 100. Send. Upon receiving the analysis data and the IP address information, the server 200 collates the blinking pattern, and registers the MFP 300 identified by collating the blinking pattern as an output destination candidate MFP. The server 200 that has registered the MFP returns a registration completion notification to the portable terminal 100. On the other hand, if MFP 300 is not specified even after collating the blinking pattern, server 200 returns a registration incomplete notification to portable terminal 100.

  Next, the mobile terminal 100 receives the result (step S107). More specifically, the mobile terminal 100 receives a registration completion notification or a registration incomplete notification from the server 200.

  Next, the mobile terminal 100 determines whether or not the registration is completed (step S108). More specifically, the mobile terminal 100 determines whether or not registration of the photographed MFP in the server 200 is completed by determining whether or not the notification received in the process shown in step S107 is a registration completion notification. Judging.

  If it is determined that the registration has been completed (step S108: YES), the portable terminal 100 determines whether there is additional registration or deletion of the MFP (step S109). More specifically, the mobile terminal 100 inquires of the user whether or not an MFP as an output destination candidate is added or deleted, and accepts a selection by the user, thereby determining whether or not there is an additional registration or deletion of the MFP. Determine whether.

  When determining that there is no additional registration or deletion of the MFP (step S109: NO), the portable terminal 100 proceeds to the process of step S112. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is additional registration or deletion of the MFP (step S109: YES), the mobile terminal 100 returns to the process of step S103 and repeats the processes after step S103. A detailed description of the process of registering / deleting the MFP will be described later.

  On the other hand, in the process shown in step S108, when it is determined that the registration is not completed (step S108: NO), the portable terminal 100 determines whether or not to take a picture of the MFP again (step S110). More specifically, the mobile terminal 100 inquires of the user whether or not the MFP as the output destination candidate is to be shot again, and accepts the selection by the user, thereby determining whether to shoot the MFP 300 again. .

  If it is determined that the MFP is to be photographed again (step S110: YES), the portable terminal 100 returns to the process of step S104 and repeats the processes of step S104 and subsequent steps.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the MFP is not photographed again (step S110: NO), the mobile terminal 100 determines whether or not it is a new registration (step S111). When determining that it is not new registration (step S111: NO), the mobile terminal 100 proceeds to the process of step S112. On the other hand, when it is determined that the registration is new (step S110: YES), the mobile terminal 100 ends the process.

  As described above, according to the processing shown in steps S101 to S111 of FIGS. 14 and 15, the MFP is photographed by the portable terminal 100, and the photographed MFP 300 is used as a candidate for an MFP that executes a print job from the portable terminal 100. Registered in the server 200.

  Next, the portable terminal 100 determines whether or not there is a job start instruction (step S112). More specifically, the mobile terminal 100 inquires of the user whether or not to perform printing, and accepts a selection by the user, thereby determining whether or not there is a job start instruction.

  If it is determined that there is no job start instruction (step S112: NO), the portable terminal 100 ends the process. On the other hand, when determining that there is a job start instruction (step S112: YES), the portable terminal 100 transmits print data (step S113). More specifically, the mobile terminal 100 transmits print data such as a PDF file to the server 200. The server 200 that has received the print data selects one MFP that is optimal for the execution of the print job from among the MFPs registered in the server 200 based on the contents of the print data and the performance / status of the MFP, Instructs execution of a print job. The MFP instructed to execute the print job starts execution of the print job. The light emitting unit 340 of the MFP that has started execution of the print job first causes the light emitting unit 340 to blink with a blinking pattern unique to the mobile terminal 100, and further the blinking pattern of the light emitting unit 340 according to the progress of the print job. To change.

  As described above, according to the processing shown in steps S112 to S113 in FIG. 15, if print data is transmitted from the portable terminal 100 to the server 200 after photographing of the MFP by the portable terminal 100, it is determined by any of the photographed MFP 300. Printing starts.

  Next, the portable terminal 100 captures an MFP candidate (step S114). More specifically, the user of the mobile terminal 100 takes a picture again with the mobile terminal 100 of the MFP registered as an output destination candidate by taking a picture in the process shown in step S104.

  Next, the mobile terminal 100 analyzes the captured image (step S115). More specifically, the portable terminal 100 analyzes the image data (moving image) obtained by photographing the MFP 300 in the process shown in step S <b> 114 and recognizes the blinking pattern of the light emitting unit 340 of each MFP 300. At this time, the mobile terminal 100 displays information indicating the state of the MFP specified by the blinking pattern (for example, “job in progress”) superimposed on the captured image.

  Next, the mobile terminal 100 determines whether there is an MFP in which the light emitting unit 340 is flashing in a flashing pattern unique to the mobile terminal 100 (step S116). More specifically, the portable terminal 100 determines whether there is an MFP in which the light emitting unit 340 blinks in a blinking pattern unique to the IP address of the portable terminal 100 among the MFPs photographed in the process shown in step S114. Determine whether.

  If it is determined that there is no MFP (step S116: NO), the portable terminal 100 returns to the process of step S114. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is an MFP (step S116: YES), the portable terminal 100 specifies the MFP (step S117). More specifically, the mobile terminal 100 executes a print job on the MFP for which the light emitting unit 340 is determined to be flashing in a flashing pattern specific to the IP address of the mobile terminal 100 in the process shown in step S116. Identify the existing MFP and notify the user.

  Next, the mobile terminal 100 determines whether or not to end the confirmation (step S118). More specifically, the mobile terminal 100 inquires of the user whether or not to confirm the state of the MFP again, and accepts the selection by the user, thereby determining whether or not to end the confirmation of the MFP.

  When determining that the confirmation is not finished (step S118: NO), the mobile terminal 100 returns to the process of step S114. On the other hand, when it is judged that confirmation is complete | finished (step S118: YES), the portable terminal 100 complete | finishes a process.

  As described above, according to the processing shown in steps S114 to S118 in FIG. 15, if the MFP is photographed again by the portable terminal 100 after the print data is transmitted, the MFP executing the print job and the state of the MFP are changed. The user is notified. Note that the processing shown in steps S114 to S118 in FIG. 15 may be omitted as appropriate.

  Next, the operation of the server 200 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 16 and 17. FIG. 16 and FIG. 17 are flowcharts showing the procedure of job distribution processing executed by the server 200.

  First, the server 200 transmits blinking pattern information to each MFP 300 (step S201). More specifically, the server 200 first recognizes the MFP 300 existing on the network 400 and transmits various blinking pattern information stored in the storage unit 220 to each MFP 300. By transmitting the blinking pattern information, the light emitting unit 340 of each MFP 300 blinks with a different blinking pattern for each MFP. The blinking pattern information is, for example, information indicated by a code in which a predetermined number of turn-off “0” and turn-on “1” are combined.

  Next, the server 200 receives the analysis data (step S202). More specifically, the server 200 receives the analysis data of the captured image transmitted by the mobile terminal 100 in the process shown in step S106 of FIG. 14 together with the IP address information of the mobile terminal 100.

  Next, the server 200 collates the data (step S203). More specifically, the server 200 collates the blinking pattern indicated by the information regarding the blinking pattern included in the analysis data received in the process shown in step S202 with the blinking pattern stored in the storage unit 220. As described above, the blinking pattern stored in the storage unit 220 is associated with the IP address of the MFP 300.

  Next, the server 200 determines whether there is a flashing pattern match (step S204). More specifically, the server 200 determines whether or not there is a match of one or more blinking patterns as a result of collating the blinking patterns in the process shown in step S203.

  If it is determined that the blinking pattern does not match (step S204: NO), the server 200 transmits a registration incomplete notification (step S205). More specifically, server 200 transmits a registration incomplete notification indicating that MFP 300 is not registered to mobile terminal 100.

  Then, the server 200 determines whether there is re-photographing (step S206). More specifically, the server 200 determines whether or not information indicating that re-photographing is to be performed is received from the mobile terminal 100 in response to the registration incomplete notification transmitted to the mobile terminal 100 in the process shown in step S205. .

  If it is determined that there is re-photographing (step S206: YES), the server 200 returns to the process of step S202 and repeats the processes after step S202. On the other hand, when determining that there is no re-photographing (step S206: NO), the server 200 determines whether or not the registration is new (step S207).

  When determining that it is not new registration (step S207: NO), the server 200 proceeds to the process of step S213. On the other hand, when determining that it is new registration (step S207: YES), the server 200 ends the process.

  On the other hand, in the process shown in step S204, when it is determined that the blinking pattern matches (step S204: YES), the server 200 determines whether or not the addition mode is “overwrite” (step S208). More specifically, the server 200 refers to the information received from the mobile terminal 100 together with the analysis data, and whether the addition mode when additionally registering the MFP is “overwrite” or “add unregistered amount”. It is judged whether it is.

  When determining that the addition mode is not “overwrite” (step S208: NO), the server 200 proceeds to the process of step S210. On the other hand, when determining that the addition mode is “overwrite” (step S208: YES), the server 200 deletes the previous registration (step S209). More specifically, server 200 deletes the IP address of the MFP registered in storage unit 220 in association with the IP address of portable terminal 100.

  Next, the server 200 registers MFP information (step S210). More specifically, the server 200 registers the IP address of the MFP 300 associated with the blinking pattern matched as a result of collating data in the process shown in step S203 in the storage unit 220 in association with the IP address of the mobile terminal 100. To do.

  Next, the server 200 transmits a registration completion notification (step S211). More specifically, server 200 transmits a registration completion notification indicating that MFP 300 has been registered to portable terminal 100.

  Next, the server 200 determines whether there is any additional registration or deletion of the MFP (step S212). More specifically, the server 200 determines whether there is an additional registration or deletion request from the mobile terminal 100.

  When determining that there is no additional registration or deletion of the MFP (step S212: NO), the server 200 proceeds to the process of step S213. On the other hand, when determining that there is additional registration or deletion of the MFP (step S212: YES), the server 200 returns to the process of step S202, and repeats the processes after step S202.

  As described above, according to the processing shown in steps S201 to S212 in FIG. 16, the IP address of the MFP 300 captured by the mobile terminal 100 is the IP address of the mobile terminal 100 as the IP address of the MFP that is the output destination candidate. Registered in association.

  Next, the server 200 determines whether there is a job start request (step S213). More specifically, the server 200 determines whether print data has been received from the mobile terminal 100.

  When determining that there is no job start request (step S213: NO), the server 200 returns to the process of step S212 and repeats the processes of step S212 and subsequent steps.

  On the other hand, when determining that there is a job start request (step S213: YES), the server 200 selects an MFP as a job allocation destination (step S214). More specifically, the server 200 performs printing based on the content of the print data and the performance / status of the MFP from among the MFPs registered with the IP address associated with the IP address of the portable terminal 100 in the process shown in step S210. Select one MFP optimal for job execution.

  Next, the server 200 transmits print data (step S215). More specifically, the server 200 transfers the print data to the MFP selected in the process shown in step S214 and instructs execution of the print job. Receiving the print data, the MFP 300 starts executing the print job.

  Then, the server 200 determines whether or not the job is finished (step S216). When determining that the job has not ended (step S216: NO), the server 200 waits until the job ends. On the other hand, when determining that the job has ended (step S216: YES), the server 200 stores the job history (step S217) and ends the process.

  As described above, according to the processing shown in steps S213 to S217 in FIG. 17, when print data is received from the mobile terminal 100, the MFP 300 in which the IP address is registered in association with the IP address of the mobile terminal 100 is selected. One MFP is selected, and execution of a print job is instructed. Note that the processes shown in steps S213 to S217 of FIG. 17 can be omitted as appropriate.

  Next, the operation of the MFP 300 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of job execution processing executed by MFP 300.

  First, the MFP 300 sets a blinking pattern (step S301). More specifically, the MFP 300 receives the blinking pattern information transmitted by the server 200 in the process shown in step S201 of FIG. 16, and sets the received blinking pattern information. By setting the blink pattern information, the light emitting unit 340 blinks with a different blink pattern for each MFP. The light emitting unit 340 blinks at a cycle that allows the blinking to be accurately identified based on moving image data obtained by photographing the light emitting unit 340 with the mobile terminal 100 for a certain period of time. Then, if the MFP 300 in which the light emitting unit 340 is blinking is photographed by the portable terminal 100, it is registered as an MFP as an output destination candidate. In addition, the light emission part 340 blinks with the 1st blink pattern which shows a ready state.

  Next, the MFP 300 determines whether print data has been received (step S302). More specifically, the MFP 300 determines whether print data has been received from the server 200 after being registered as an output destination candidate.

  When determining that the print data has not been received (step S302: NO), the MFP 300 waits until the print data is received. On the other hand, when determining that the print data has been received (step S302: YES), the MFP 300 changes the blinking pattern (step S303). More specifically, the MFP 300 adds a unique blinking pattern to the IP address of the mobile terminal 100 to the first blinking pattern indicating the ready state, and causes the light emitting unit 340 to operate with the second blinking pattern indicating the job start state. Blink.

  Next, the MFP 300 starts executing the job (step S304). More specifically, the MFP 300 starts executing a print job including the print data received in the process shown in step S302.

  Next, the MFP 300 changes the blinking pattern (step S305). More specifically, the MFP 300 changes the blinking pattern of the light emitting unit 340 and causes the light emitting unit 340 to blink with a third blinking pattern indicating a job execution state.

  Then, the MFP 300 determines whether the job has been completed (step S306). When determining that the job has not ended (step S306: NO), the MFP 300 waits until the job ends.

  On the other hand, when determining that the job has ended (step S306: YES), the MFP 300 changes the blinking pattern (step S307). More specifically, the MFP 300 changes the blinking pattern of the light emitting unit 340 and causes the light emitting unit 340 to blink with a fourth blinking pattern indicating the job end state.

  Next, the MFP 300 stores a job history (step S308). Then, the MFP 300 determines whether or not the timer has expired (step S309). More specifically, the MFP 300 determines whether a predetermined time (for example, 2 minutes) has elapsed since the completion of the print job.

  When determining that the timer has not expired (step S309: NO), the MFP 300 waits until the timer expires. On the other hand, when determining that the timer has expired (step S309: YES), the MFP 300 changes the blinking pattern (step S310). More specifically, the MFP 300 changes the blinking pattern of the light emitting unit 340 and causes the light emitting unit 340 to blink with the first blinking pattern indicating the ready state.

  Then, the MFP 300 determines whether or not the power is turned off (step S311). When determining that the power is not turned off (step S311: NO), the MFP 300 returns to the process of step S301. On the other hand, when determining that the power is turned off (step S311: YES), the MFP 300 ends the process.

  As described above, according to the processing shown in steps S301 to S311 of FIG. 18, first, the light emitting unit 340 of the MFP blinks in a blinking pattern unique to each MFP. Thereafter, when the MFP receives print data from the portable terminal 100, the light emitting unit 340 of the MFP blinks in a blinking pattern unique to the portable terminal 100. When the MFP starts a print job, the light emitting unit 340 blinks with a different blink pattern depending on the progress of the print job.

  Next, effects of the image forming system according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIGS. 19 to 21 are diagrams for explaining sorting printing processing by a general image forming system as a comparative example.

  FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of the performance and state of MFPs 300 </ b> A to 300 </ b> J (MFPs 300 </ b> _A to 300 </ b> _J) existing on the network 400, and FIG. 20 illustrates an example of print data transmitted from the mobile terminal 100 to the server 200. FIG.

  As illustrated in FIG. 19, a plurality of MFPs 300 </ b> A to 300 </ b> J having different performances exist on the network 400. Further, the state of each MFP changes with the passage of time. Server 200 periodically communicates with each MFP on network 400 to recognize the performance and status of each MFP. When the print data is received from the portable terminal 100, the server 200 executes the print job from all the MFPs 300A to 300J on the network 400 based on the content of the print data and the performance / status of each MFP. The optimum MFP is selected and a print job is executed.

  For example, for the first print data (print data 1) shown in FIG. 20, among the 10 MFPs 300A to 300J on the network 400, the MFP 300I (MFP_I) that can cope with the color A4 and has the highest printing speed is optimal. Selected as a new MFP. On the other hand, for the second print data (print data 2), MFP 300D (MFP_D), which can handle monochrome A3 and has the highest printing speed, is a candidate, but because A3 paper has run out, MFP 300C (MFP_C) ) Is selected as the optimum MFP.

  Therefore, according to the general image forming system, as shown in FIG. 21, for the print job including the first print data, the first print data is transmitted from the server 200 to the MFP 300I, and the MFP 300I executes the print job. Is done. Further, for a print job including the second print data, the second print data is transmitted from the server 200 to the MFP 300C, and the MFP 300C executes the print job.

  However, when the installation location of the MFP 300I is far away from the location where the user of the mobile terminal 100 is located, for example, the user cannot grasp the MFP that is executing the print job including the first print data.

  On the other hand, in the image forming system according to the present embodiment, for example, if the user takes a picture of five MFPs 300A to 300E installed near the user with the portable terminal 100 (see FIG. 1), the first printing is performed. A print job including data is executed by one of the five MFPs 300A to 300E. Therefore, the user can grasp the MFP that is executing the print job.

  If the user can grasp the IP address of the MFP that the user wants to execute the print job, the user can directly specify the MFP and execute the print job. However, it takes time and effort to grasp the IP address of the MFP and set the IP address. In addition, even if the IP address of the MFP is set, if the performance of the MFP does not match the contents of the print data, it is inconvenient that the IP address of another MFP must be set again.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, when a user takes two or more MFPs 300 whose light emitting units 340 are blinking with the mobile terminal 100, the taken MFPs are registered as output destination candidates. When the print data is transmitted from the portable terminal 100, a print job is executed by one of the registered MFPs. Therefore, when one MFP is selected from a plurality of MFPs on the network 400 and a print job is executed, the print job is prevented from being executed by the MFP not intended by the user. It is possible to surely grasp the MFP that executes.

  Next, with reference to FIGS. 22 to 24, a process for additionally registering or deleting an MFP as an output destination candidate will be described in detail.

  As described above, in the image forming system of the present embodiment, the IP address of the MFP photographed by the mobile terminal 100 is registered in the storage unit 220 of the server 200 in association with the IP address of the mobile terminal 100. The IP address of the MFP registered in the storage unit 220 is held in the storage unit 220 without being deleted until it is intentionally deleted by the user or overwritten with a new IP address.

  FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for inquiring the user to add / delete MFPs as output destination candidates. As shown in FIG. 22, portable terminal 100 displays a button for inquiring the user whether or not to add or delete an MFP, and determines whether to additionally register the MFP or delete the registered MFP. Let the user choose.

  If the user selects to additionally register the MFP, as illustrated in FIG. 23, the mobile terminal 100 allows the user to select either “overwrite” or “add unregistered” as the output destination addition mode. Displays a button for selection.

  When the additional mode “overwrite” is selected and the MFP is photographed by the portable terminal 100, the IP address of the MFP registered in the storage unit 220 is replaced with the IP address of the newly photographed MFP. . On the other hand, when the addition mode “add unregistered part” is selected, if the MFP is photographed by the portable terminal 100, the IP address of the unregistered MFP is added to the IP address of the MFP registered in the storage unit 220. Is done.

  When the user selects to delete the registered MFP, as shown in FIG. 24, for example, from among the MFP icons 390A to 390E (or a list of MFP names and the like) displayed on the touch panel. The user can delete a desired MFP from the registered MFPs by selecting an icon of the MFP for which deletion (or registration suspension) is desired. In FIG. 24, since the replacement time of the consumables is near to the MFP 300E (see FIG. 19), if the user presses and holds the icon 390E of the MFP 300E, a deletion request notification requesting the deletion of the IP address of the MFP 300E is sent to the server 200. Sent to.

  Next, a blinking pattern of the light emitting unit 340 of the MFP 300 that executes a print job will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 25A, in a situation where a print job is not received, the light emitting unit 340 of the MFP 300 blinks with a first blinking pattern indicating a ready state.

  Thereafter, when a print job is received from the portable terminal 100, the light emitting unit 340 of the MFP 300 blinks in a second blinking pattern different from the first blinking pattern, as shown in FIG. As described above, the second blinking pattern is a blinking pattern unique to the IP address of the mobile terminal 100 and indicates that the execution of the print job is started.

  Subsequently, when the execution of the print job is started, as shown in FIG. 25C, the light emitting unit 340 of the MFP 300 blinks with a third blinking pattern indicating that the print job is being executed.

  When the print job is completed, as shown in FIG. 25D, the light emitting unit 340 of the MFP 300 blinks with a fourth blinking pattern indicating that the print job is completed.

  If a predetermined time elapses after the print job is completed, the light emitting unit 340 of the MFP 300 blinks again with the first blinking pattern indicating the ready state, as shown in FIG.

  According to such a configuration, when the MFP is photographed by the mobile terminal 100 and the blinking pattern is analyzed, the MFP executing the print job is specified by the mobile terminal 100. In addition, the progress of the print job is specified from the change in the blinking pattern. Therefore, the user of the portable terminal 100 can easily grasp the MFP that is executing the print job from the plurality of MFPs. Furthermore, the user can grasp the progress of the print job without approaching the MFP.

  In the above-described embodiment, the blinking pattern of the light emitting unit 340 is changed according to the progress of the print job. However, for example, even when an abnormality occurs in the MFP 300, the blinking pattern can be changed.

(Second Embodiment)
In the first embodiment, after the MFP photographed by the mobile terminal 100 is registered in the server 200, print data is transmitted from the mobile terminal 100 to the server 200. However, the print data may be transmitted from the portable terminal 100 before the MFP 300 is registered in the server 200.

  FIG. 26 and FIG. 27 are flowcharts showing the procedure of job request processing according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The configuration of the image forming system according to the present embodiment is the same as the configuration of the image forming system according to the first embodiment, except that the timing at which the print data is transmitted from the portable terminal 100 is different. Detailed description will be omitted. In the present embodiment, the control unit 110 of the mobile terminal 100 functions as a confirmation unit that inquires of the user whether or not to register the MFP 300 in the server 200.

  The processes shown in steps S401 to S405 are the same as the processes shown in steps S101 to S105 of FIG.

  Next, the mobile terminal 100 transmits analysis data and print data to the server 200 (step S406). More specifically, the mobile terminal 100 transmits the captured image analysis data and the print data such as the PDF file obtained by the processing shown in step S405 to the server 200 together with the IP address information of the mobile terminal 100. Upon receiving the analysis data and the print data, the server 200 collates the blinking pattern, selects the optimum MFP from the MFPs identified by collating the blinking pattern, and instructs the execution of the print job. The server 200 that has instructed execution of the print job returns a print instruction completion notification to the mobile terminal 100. On the other hand, if MFP 300 is not specified even after collating the blinking pattern, server 200 returns a print instruction incomplete notification to portable terminal 100.

  Next, the mobile terminal 100 receives the result (step S407). More specifically, the mobile terminal 100 receives a print instruction completion notification or a print instruction incomplete notification from the server 200.

  Next, the mobile terminal 100 determines whether or not the print instruction has been completed (step S408). More specifically, the mobile terminal 100 determines whether the print instruction to any of the photographed MFPs is completed by determining whether the notification received in the process shown in step S407 is a print instruction completion notification. Judge whether or not.

  If it is determined that the print instruction has not been completed (step S408: NO), the portable terminal 100 determines whether or not to take a picture of the MFP again (step S409).

  If it is determined that the MFP is not photographed again (step S409: NO), the portable terminal 100 ends the process. On the other hand, when it is determined that the MFP is to be photographed again (step S409: YES), the mobile terminal 100 returns to the process of step S404 and repeats the process from step S404 onward.

  On the other hand, in the process shown in step S408, when it is determined that the print instruction is completed (step S408: YES), the mobile terminal 100 determines whether or not to register the result (step S410). More specifically, the portable terminal 100 inquires of the user whether or not to register the MFP photographed in the process shown in step S404 in the server 200 as an output destination candidate, and registers the MFP by accepting the selection by the user. Judge whether to do.

  When determining that the result is not registered (step S410: NO), the mobile terminal 100 proceeds to the process of step S412. On the other hand, when determining to register the result (step S410: YES), the mobile terminal 100 transmits a registration request (step S411). More specifically, the mobile terminal 100 transmits a registration request notification requesting registration of the photographed MFP to the server 200.

  As described above, according to the processing shown in steps S401 to S411 in FIG. 26, the MFP is photographed by the portable terminal 100, and printing is started by any of the photographed MFPs. Further, if necessary, the MFP photographed by the mobile terminal 100 is registered in the server 200 as an output destination candidate. Note that the processing after step S412 is the same as the processing after step S114 in FIG.

  FIG. 28 and FIG. 29 are flowcharts showing a procedure of job distribution processing according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  Since the process shown in step S501 is the same as the process shown in step S201 of FIG. 16, detailed description thereof is omitted.

  Next, the server 200 receives analysis data and print data (step S502). More specifically, the server 200 receives the analysis data and the print data transmitted together with the IP address information by the portable terminal 100 in the process shown in step S406 of FIG.

  Next, the server 200 collates the data and determines whether there is a flashing pattern match (steps S503 and S504). Since the processing shown in steps S503 to S504 is the same as the processing shown in steps S203 to S204 in FIG. 16, detailed description thereof is omitted.

  If it is determined in the process shown in step S504 that the blinking pattern does not match (step S504: NO), the server 200 transmits a print instruction incomplete notification to the mobile terminal 100 (step S505). More specifically, the server 200 transmits a print instruction incomplete notification indicating that the print instruction to the MFP has not been completed to the mobile terminal 100.

  Then, the server 200 determines whether or not there is re-shooting (step S506). More specifically, the server 200 determines whether or not information indicating that re-shooting is received from the mobile terminal 100 in response to the print instruction incomplete notification transmitted to the mobile terminal 100 in the process shown in step S505. To do.

  If it is determined that there is re-photographing (step S506: YES), the server 200 returns to the process of step S502 and repeats the processes after step S502. On the other hand, when determining that there is no re-shooting (step S506: NO), the server 200 ends the process.

  On the other hand, in the process shown in step S504, when it is determined that the flashing pattern matches (step S504: YES), the server 200 selects an MFP as a job allocation destination and transmits print data (step S507, S508). Since the processing shown in steps S507 to S508 is the same as the processing shown in steps S214 to S215 of FIG. 17, detailed description thereof is omitted.

  Next, the server 200 transmits a print instruction completion notification to the mobile terminal 100 (step S509). More specifically, the server 200 transmits a print instruction completion notification indicating that the print instruction to the MFP has been completed to the mobile terminal 100.

  Next, the server 200 determines whether or not a registration request has been received (step S510). More specifically, the server 200 determines whether or not the registration request notification transmitted by the mobile terminal 100 in the process shown in step S411 of FIG. 26 has been received.

  When determining that the registration request has not been received (step S510: NO), the server 200 proceeds to the process of step S514. On the other hand, when determining that the registration request has been received (step S510: YES), the server 200 determines whether or not the addition mode is “overwrite” and performs registration according to the determination result (steps S511 to S513). ). The processing shown in steps S511 to S513 is the same as the processing shown in steps S208 to S210 in FIG.

  As described above, according to the processing shown in steps S501 to S513 in FIG. 28, execution of a print job is instructed to one of the MFPs photographed by the mobile terminal 100. Further, if necessary, the MFP photographed by the portable terminal 100 is registered as an output destination candidate. Note that the processing after step S514 is the same as the processing after step S216 in FIG.

(Third embodiment)
This embodiment is an embodiment in which priority is given to a plurality of MFPs 300 that are candidates for output destinations.

  FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for assigning priority to the MFP 300. As shown in FIG. 30, in this embodiment, when MFPs 300 </ b> A to 300 </ b> E that are output destination candidates are photographed by the mobile terminal 100, these MFPs 300 </ b> A to 300 </ b> E are photographed in multiple times. A higher priority is assigned to the MFP in which the order of shooting is earlier. In the present embodiment, the control unit 210 of the server 200 functions as an assigning unit that assigns priorities to a plurality of MFPs.

  In FIG. 30, MFP 300A and MFP 300B are photographed as first group 510, and then MFP 300C is photographed as second group 520. Thereafter, the MFP 300D and the MFP 300E are photographed as the third group 530.

  In this case, the highest priority is assigned to the MFP 300A and MFP 300B that are photographed first. Then, the second priority is given to the next photographed MFP 300C, and the lowest priority is given to the last photographed MFP 300D and MFP 300E. Note that the same priority is assigned to the MFP 300A and the MFP 300B that are photographed at the same time, and the same priority is assigned to the MFP 300D and the MFP 300E.

  If the print data is received from the portable terminal 100, the server 200 determines the five MFPs 300A to 300E based on the contents of the print data, the performance / status of the candidate MFPs 300A to 300E, and the priority order of the MFPs 300A to 300E. One MFP that is most suitable for the execution of the print job is selected from the above, and the print job is executed.

  According to such a configuration, the user can more easily grasp the MFP that executes the print job.

  In the above-described embodiment, priority is given to MFPs by photographing candidate MFPs in multiple times. However, unlike the present embodiment, the priority order may be designated by the user after the MFP as an output destination candidate is shot by one shooting operation. In this case, for example, icons of candidate MFPs are displayed on the touch panel of the mobile terminal 100, and the user selects the icons in order. The higher priority is given to the MFP with the earlier order selected by the user. Note that the operation display unit 130 of the mobile terminal 100 functions as a reception unit that receives selection of the MFP by the user.

  Alternatively, the priority order of MFPs may be given based on the distance from the user to the MFP. In this case, an MFP having a higher intensity of the blinking pattern photographed by the imaging unit 140 of the mobile terminal 100 is given higher priority as being installed near the user of the mobile terminal 100. Note that the imaging unit 140 of the mobile terminal 100 functions as a detection unit that detects the light emission intensity of the light emitting unit 340.

  Alternatively, when print data is transmitted from the mobile terminal 100 a plurality of times, the MFP that has executed the latest print job is given the highest priority, and the remaining MFPs are installed from the MFP that has executed the latest print job. Higher priority may be given to MFPs closer to. In this case, the installation position of each MFP may be calculated from the light emission intensity of the light emitting unit, or the installation position of each MFP may be registered in the server in advance.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims.

  For example, in the first to third embodiments described above, the IP address of the mobile terminal is registered in association with the IP address of the MFP. However, the identification information of the mobile terminal registered in association with the IP address of the MFP is not limited to the IP address of the mobile terminal, and may be a user ID (Identification) of a user who uses the mobile terminal. Furthermore, in consideration of the case where a plurality of users use the mobile terminal, the two identification information of the mobile terminal IP address and the user ID may be combined and operated.

  Moreover, in the 1st-3rd embodiment mentioned above, the light emission part which consists of LED blinked according to the predetermined blink pattern. However, the light emitting unit that blinks in a predetermined blinking pattern is not limited to a dedicated light emitting unit composed of LEDs, and the touch panel of the operation panel unit may blink.

  In the first to third embodiments described above, the blink pattern information is transmitted from the server to the MFP, and the MFP blinks the light emitting unit according to the received blink pattern information. However, the MFP may hold the blinking pattern information in advance, and the server may acquire the blinking pattern information from the MFP.

  In the first to third embodiments described above, the analysis data is transmitted to the server after the image data obtained by photographing the MFP with the portable terminal is analyzed by the portable terminal. However, the image data obtained by photographing the MFP with the portable terminal may be transmitted as it is to the server, and the server may analyze the image data.

  In the first to third embodiments described above, the server that has received the print data selects one MFP from a plurality of MFPs photographed by the mobile terminal and executes the print job. However, for example, for a print job with a large number of pages, the server may select two or more MFPs and execute the print job.

  In the first to third embodiments described above, the case where a plurality of MFPs are connected on the network has been described as an example. However, the image forming apparatus connected to the network is not limited to the MFP, and a printer may be connected.

  The means and method for performing various processes in the image forming systems according to the first to third embodiments described above can be realized by either a dedicated hardware circuit or a programmed computer. The program may be provided by a computer-readable recording medium such as a flexible disk and CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), or may be provided online via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the program recorded on the computer-readable recording medium is usually transferred to and stored in a storage unit such as an HDD. The program may be provided as a single application software, or may be incorporated in the software of the apparatus as one function of the image forming system.

100 mobile devices,
110, 210, 310 control unit,
120, 220, 320 storage unit,
130 operation display section,
140 imaging unit,
150, 230, 370 communication section,
160, 240, 380 buses,
200 servers,
300 MFP,
330 Operation panel section,
340 light emitting unit,
350 image reading unit,
360 image forming unit,
400 network,
450 access points.

Claims (27)

An image forming system comprising: a plurality of image forming apparatuses; a server that selects at least one image forming apparatus from the plurality of image forming apparatuses and executes a print job; and a terminal device that transmits print data to the server. Because
Each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses includes:
Each image forming apparatus has a light emitting unit that blinks with a different blinking pattern,
The terminal device
An imaging unit that images at least two image forming apparatuses among the plurality of image forming apparatuses in which the light emitting unit is blinking;
A transmission unit that transmits information about the blinking pattern obtained by imaging the image forming apparatus by the imaging unit to the server;
The server
A storage unit that stores a blinking pattern that is different for each image forming apparatus and identification information of the image forming apparatus in association with each other;
A receiving unit for receiving information on the blinking pattern transmitted by the transmitting unit;
A specifying unit that specifies identification information of the image forming apparatus imaged by the imaging unit from information on the blinking pattern received by the receiving unit with reference to the storage unit;
An image forming system comprising: an instruction unit that selects at least one image forming apparatus from among the image forming apparatuses whose identification information has been specified by the specifying unit and executes the print job. The transmitting unit transmits identification information of the terminal device together with information related to the blinking pattern, and the receiving unit receives identification information of the terminal device together with information related to the blinking pattern,
The server
The registration control unit according to claim 1, further comprising: a registration control unit that associates the identification information of the terminal device received by the receiving unit and the identification information of the image forming device specified by the specifying unit with each other and registers them in the registration unit. Image forming system. The transmission unit transmits the print data together with information about the blinking pattern, and the reception unit receives the print data together with information about the blinking pattern,
The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the instruction unit causes the at least one image forming apparatus to execute the print job including the print data received by the receiving unit. The transmitting unit transmits identification information of the terminal device together with information on the blinking pattern and the print data, and the receiving unit receives identification information of the terminal device together with information on the blinking pattern and the print data. And
The terminal device
A confirmation unit that inquires of the user whether or not to register the identification information of the terminal device received by the reception unit and the identification information of the image forming device specified by the specifying unit in association with each other;
The server
The registration control unit for registering the identification information of the terminal device and the identification information of the image forming device in the registration unit in association with each other when the confirmation unit confirms that the identification information is registered. The image forming system according to 3.   The identification information of the image forming apparatus registered in the registration unit is held in the registration unit until the identification information of the image forming apparatus is deleted or new identification information of the image forming apparatus is added. The image forming system according to claim 2 or 4.   When the identification information of the new image forming apparatus is added to the registration unit, the identification information of the new image forming apparatus is added to the identification information of the image forming apparatus registered in the registration unit. The image forming system according to claim 5, wherein a first mode and a second mode in which the registered identification information of the image forming apparatus is replaced by the identification information of the new image forming apparatus can be selected. The image forming apparatus includes:
When the print job is received, the electronic device further includes a light emission control unit that causes the light emission unit to blink in a blink pattern unique to the identification information of the terminal device,
The terminal device
When the image forming apparatus in which the light emitting unit is blinking with the unique blink pattern is captured by the imaging unit, the image forming apparatus that performs the print job is analyzed by analyzing the blink pattern. 5. The image forming system according to claim 2, further comprising a first notification unit that notifies the image forming apparatus. The light emission control unit changes the blinking pattern of the light emission unit according to the progress of the print job,
The terminal device
When the image forming apparatus in which the light emitting unit is blinking is imaged by the imaging unit, the image forming apparatus further includes a second notification unit that analyzes the blinking pattern and notifies the user of the progress of the print job. The image forming system according to claim 7. The server
A grant unit that gives priority to the at least two image forming apparatuses picked up by the image pickup unit;
The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the instruction unit selects the at least one image forming apparatus based on the priority order assigned by the assigning unit.   When the at least two image forming apparatuses are imaged in a plurality of times by the imaging unit, the assigning unit assigns a higher priority to the image forming apparatus in which the order of imaging by the imaging unit is earlier. Item 10. The image forming system according to Item 9.   The image forming system according to claim 10, wherein when a plurality of image forming apparatuses are simultaneously imaged, the assigning unit assigns the same priority to the plurality of image forming apparatuses. The terminal device
A reception unit for receiving selection of the image forming apparatus by a user;
The image forming system according to claim 9, wherein the assigning unit assigns a higher priority to the image forming apparatus that is earlier in the order selected by the user. The terminal device
A detection unit for detecting a light emission intensity of the light emitting unit;
The image forming system according to claim 9, wherein the assigning unit assigns a higher priority to the image forming apparatus having a higher emission intensity.   When a plurality of print data is transmitted from the terminal device to the server, the assigning unit assigns the highest priority to the image forming apparatus that has executed the latest print job, and for the remaining image forming apparatuses, The image forming system according to claim 9, wherein a higher priority is given to the image forming apparatus that is closer to the installation location to the image forming apparatus that has executed the latest print job. An image forming system comprising: a plurality of image forming apparatuses; a server that selects at least one image forming apparatus from the plurality of image forming apparatuses and executes a print job; and a terminal device that transmits print data to the server. A job processing program to be executed by the server included in
Information relating to the blinking pattern obtained by imaging at least two image forming apparatuses among the plurality of image forming apparatuses with the blinking pattern different for each image forming apparatus by the imaging unit of the terminal device. Receiving procedure (a);
From the information regarding the blinking pattern received in the step (a), referring to the storage unit storing the blinking pattern different for each image forming apparatus and the identification information of the image forming apparatus in association with each other. A procedure (b) for identifying identification information of the image forming apparatus imaged by the imaging unit;
A procedure (c) for selecting at least one image forming apparatus from among the image forming apparatuses whose identification information is specified in the procedure (b) and executing the print job;
A job processing program for causing the server to execute. In the step (a), the identification information of the terminal device is received together with information on the blinking pattern,
The job processing program includes:
The server further includes a procedure (d) for registering the identification information of the terminal device received in the procedure (a) and the identification information of the image forming device specified in the procedure (b) in a registration unit in association with each other. The job processing program according to claim 15, wherein the job processing program is executed. In the step (a), the print data is received together with information on the blinking pattern,
The job processing program according to claim 15, wherein in the step (c), the print job including the print data received in the step (a) is executed by the at least one image forming apparatus. In the step (a), identification information of the terminal device is received together with information on the blinking pattern and the print data.
The user is asked whether or not to register the identification information of the terminal device received in the procedure (a) and the identification information of the image forming device specified in the procedure (b) in association with each other,
The job processing program includes:
When it is confirmed that the identification information is registered, the server further executes a procedure (e) of associating the identification information of the terminal device and the identification information of the image forming apparatus with each other and registering them in a registration unit. Item 18. A job processing program according to Item 17.   The identification information of the image forming apparatus registered in the registration unit is held in the registration unit until the identification information of the image forming apparatus is deleted or new identification information of the image forming apparatus is added. The job processing program according to claim 16 or 18.   When the identification information of the new image forming apparatus is added to the registration unit, the identification information of the new image forming apparatus is added to the identification information of the image forming apparatus registered in the registration unit. The job processing program according to claim 19, wherein a first mode and a second mode in which identification information of the registered image forming apparatus is replaced by identification information of the new image forming apparatus can be selected. Causing the server to further execute a procedure (f) for giving priority to the at least two image forming apparatuses captured by the imaging unit;
The job processing according to any one of claims 15 to 20 , wherein, in the step (c), the at least one image forming apparatus is selected based on the priority given in the step (f). program. When the at least two image forming apparatuses are imaged in a plurality of times by the imaging unit, in the step (f), a higher priority is given to the image forming apparatus that is earlier in the order of imaging by the imaging unit. The job processing program according to claim 21 . The job processing program according to claim 22 , wherein when the plurality of image forming apparatuses are simultaneously imaged, the same priority is given to the plurality of image forming apparatuses in the step (f). The job processing program according to claim 21 , wherein, in the step (f), a higher priority is given to the image forming apparatus in which the order selected by the user via the terminal device is earlier. The job processing program according to claim 21 , wherein in the step (f), a higher priority is given to the image forming apparatus having a higher light emission intensity of the light emitting unit. When a plurality of print data is transmitted from the terminal device to the server, the highest priority is given to the image forming apparatus that has executed the latest print job in step (f), and the remaining image forming apparatuses are The job processing program according to claim 21 , wherein higher priority is given to the image forming apparatus that is closer to the installation location to the image forming apparatus that has executed the latest print job. A computer-readable recording medium on which the job processing program according to any one of claims 15 to 26 is recorded.