Image forming apparatus, information processing apparatus, information processing system, authentication method and computer-readable storage medium
60 claims: 57 independent, 3 dependent
- 1印刷ジョブの画像形成を行う画像形成装置であって、 画像形成装置にログイン するための 第1の 認証情報 、または印刷ジョブに対する所定のジョブ操作を容認するための第2の 認証情報 を入力する 入力手段と、 前記入力手段で入力された第1の認証情報に基づいて、画像形成装置への ログイ ンを制御するログイン制御 手段と、 前記 入力手段で入力された第2の認証情報に基づいて、 印刷ジョブ に対するジョブ操作の容認を制御するジョブ操作制御 手段と、 画像形成中の印刷ジョブに対する所定の操作が行われた際に、 ログイン されている状態であるか否か判断するログイン判断 手段と、 を有 し、 前記ジョブ操作処理制御手段は、 前記ログイン判断手段でログインされている状態と判断された場合、前記ログイン制御手段で前記ログインを制御した第1の認証情報に基づいて、前記画像形成中の印刷ジョブに対するジョブ操作の容認を制御し、 前記ログイン判断手段でログインされていない状態と判断され、前記入力手段に第2の認証情報が入力された場合、前記第2の認証情報に基づいて、前記画像形成中の印刷ジョブに対するジョブ操作の容認を制御 することを特徴とする画像形成装置。
- 2前記ジョブ操作処理制御手段は、 前記 ログイン判断手段でログインされている状態と判断された際に、前記ログイン制御手段で前記ログインを制御した第1の認証情報に基づいて、前記画像形成中の 印刷ジョブに 対するジョブ 操作 の 容認 を制御し 、 前 記ジ ョブ 操作が容認されなかった 場 合、 前記 画像形成中の印刷ジョブに所定の属性が付加されているか否か判定し、 前記所定の属性が付加されていると判定した場合、前記画像形成中の 印刷ジョブに対する ジョブ 操作 の 容認 を制御 することを特徴とする請求項1 に 記載の画像形成装置。
- 3前記ログイン制御手段は、 未ログイン中に、前記認証情報の認証が証明された場合に、 前 記印 刷ジョブに対 する所定の操作を容認すると共に 、前記 認証情報をログイン認証情報として前記 画像形成 装置 を ログイン状態にする ことを特徴とする請求項1または2 に 記載の画像形成装置。
- 4前記 ログイン 制御手段は、 前 記 操作部から所定の操作が行われた際に、前記画像形成手段により実行中の 印刷ジョブ を一時的に停止させた上で、 前記認証情報の入力を要 求す ることを特徴とする請求項1 または2 に記載の画像形成装置。
- 5前記 ログイン 制御手段は、 前 記操作部から所定の操作が行われた際に、前 記認 証情報の入力を要求し、前 記入 力手段により入力された認証情報の認証が証明された場合に、 前記画像形成手段により実行中の印刷ジョブを一時的に停止させた上で、 前記印刷ジョブに対する所定の操作を容認することを特徴とする請求項1 または2 に記載の画像形成装置。
- 6前記 ログイン 制御手段は、 前 記 入力された 認証情報の認証が証明された後に、前記 操作部から 所定の操作 が行われた場合は 、前記 印刷ジョブに対する所定の操作を容認するための 認証情報 の入力を要求しない ことを特徴とする請求項1 または2 に記載の画像形成装置。
- 7前記制御手段は、 前記入力手段により入力された認証情報の認証が証明された後に、 前記操作部から所定の操作が行われた 場合 に、 予め設定された有効時間内であれば、前記印刷ジョブに対する所定の操作を容認するための 認証情報の入力を要求 しない ことを特徴とする請求項1 または2 に記載の画像形成装置。
- 8前記 ログイン 制御手段は、 前 記入 力手段により入力された認証情報の認証が証明された 後 に、前記印刷ジョブに対する所定の操作が完了するまでの間は、前記操作部から所定の操作が行われた場合 に 、前記 画像形成手段により実行中の 印刷ジョブに対する所定の操作を容認するための認証情報の入力を要求しないことを特徴とする請求項 1または2 に記載の画像形成装置。
- 9前記 予め設定された有効時間 は、前記認証情報 に認 証が証明され てから計時した時間である ことを特徴とする請求項1 または2 に記載の画像形成装置。
- 10前記 予め設定された有効時間 は、前 記認 証情報の認証が証明された後に、前記操作部から所定の操作が行われ る毎に計時した時間である ことを特徴とする請求項1 または2 に記載の画像形成装置。
- 11前記 ログイン 制御手段は、 前記 入力手段により入力された 認証情報の認証が証明された後に、 前記操作部から所定の操作が行われた場合に、予め設定された有効時間内であれば、 前記印刷ジョブに 対す る所定の操作を容認するための認証情報の入力を要求 せず、前記認証が証明された認証情報により所定の操作が容認可能な複数の連続した印刷ジョブに対し、所定の操作を容認する ことを特徴とする請求項1 または2 に記載の画像形成装置。
- 12前記ログイン制御手段は、 前記入力手段により入力された認証情報の認証が証明された後に、前記操作部から所定の操作が行われた場合に、 予め設定された有効時間内 であれば、前記印刷ジョブに対する所定の操作を容認するための認証情報の入力を要求せず 、前 記認 証が証明され た認証情報により所定の操作が容認可能な複数の印刷ジョブに対し、前記印刷ジョブの間に、前記認証情報により所定の操作が容認不可能な印刷ジョブが含まれていても、所定の操作を容認する ことを特徴とする請求項1 または2に 記載の画像形成装置。
- 13前記 入力手段により入力された 認証情報の認証 を 証明 するための情報を管理する管理手段を有し、 前記 制御手段は、 前記管理手段に管理されている情報を基に、前記認証情報の認証を証明する ことを特徴とする請求項1 または2に 記載の画像形成装置。
- 14前 記入 力手段により入力された認証情報の認証 要求を、通信網を介して接続された認証装置に送信する手段と、 前 記認証要求を送信した前記認証装置から前記認証情報の 認証結果を受信する手段と、 を有し、 前記ログイン制御手段は、 前記 受信した 認証情報 の認証結果を基に、前記認証情報の認証を証明 することを特徴とする請求項1 または2に 記載の画像形成装置。
- 15前記 ログイン 制御手段は、 予め機器管理者によって、実行中の ジョブ 操作に関する 認証 を不要とする設定を行いう ることを特徴とする請求項1 または2に 記載の画像形成装置。
- 16予め機器 管理 者によって実行中のジョブ操作に関しての 認証を 不要とする設定はジョブリセットに関するものとした ことを特徴とする請求項1 または2 に記載の画像形成装置。
- 17予め機器管理者によって実行中のジョブ操作に関しての 認証 を不要とする設定は、エラー解除のための機能解除に関するものとした ことを特徴とする請求項1 または2 に記載の画像形成装置。
- 18予 め機器管理者によっ て実 行中のジョブ操作に関 しての 認証を不要とする設定を 、エラー発生中のジョブリセットに関す る ものとした ことを特徴とする請求項1 または2 に記載の画像形成装置。
- 19予め機器管理者によって 、 実行中のジョブ操作に関 する認証につい て 、画像形成装置での実行権を有するものであれば操作可能とする設定を行いうる ことを特徴とする請求項1 または2に記載 の画像形成装置。
- 20予め機器管理者によって 、 実行中のジョブ操作 の内、ジョブリセットに関しては画像形成装置での実行権を有するものであれば操作可能とする設定を行いうる ことを特徴とする請求項1 または2に記載 の画像形成装置。
- 21予め機器管理者によって 、 実行中のジョブ操作 の内 、エラー 解除の為の機能解除に関しては画像形成装置での実行権を有するものであれば操作可能であると言う設定を行いう ることを特徴とする請求項1 または2に記載 の画像形成装置。
- 22予め機器管理者によって、実行中のジョブ操作 の内 、 エラー発生中のジョブリセットに関しては画像形成装置での実行権を有するものであれば操作可能であると言う 設定を行いうることを特徴とする請求項1 または2に記載 の画像形成装置。
- 23ジ ョブ の実行権を持たない者が 操作 を行った際は、ログにその旨記録す ることを特徴とする請求項1 または2に記載 の画像形成装置。
- 24ジ ョブ の実行権を持たない者が 操作 を行った際は、対象となるジョブオーナーに対して、通知が行われ ることを特徴とする請求項1 または2に記載 の画像形成装置。
- 25予め機器管理者によっ て実 行中の パブリック属性の ジョブ操作 に関しては、ジ ョブ操作に関 する認証を必要とする 設定を 行 いうることを特徴とする請求項1 または2に記載 の画像形成装置。
- 26実行中の ジョ ブ操 作 に関する認証を不要とするの は、エ ラー発生後一定時間が経過した場合に限定する設定ができ ることを特徴とする請求項1または2に記載の画像形成装置。
- 27実行中の ジョ ブ操 作 に関する認証を装置の実行権を有するものとするの は、 エラー発生後一定時間が経過した場合に限定する設定ができ ることを特徴とする請求項 1または2に記載 の画像形成装置
- 28通信網を介して外部装置と接続され、前記外部装置から処理が要求されたジョブを実行する情報処理装置であって、 前記情報処理装置にログインするための第1の認証情報、または前記要求されたジョブに対する所定のジョブ操作を容認するための第2の認証情報を入力する入力手段と、 前記入力手段で入力された第1の認証情報に基づいて、前記情報処理装置へのログインを制御するログイン制御手段と、 前記入力手段で入力された第2の認証情報に基づいて、前記要求されたジョブに対するジョブ操作の容認を制御するジョブ操作制御手段と、 実行中 のジ ョブ に対する所定の操作が行われた際に、ログインされている状態であるか否か判断するログイン判断手段と、 を有し、 前記ジョブ操作処理制御手段は、 前記ログイン判断手段でログインされている状態と判断された場合に、前記ログイン制御手段で前記ログインを制御した第1の認証情報に基づいて、前記実行中のジョブに対するジョブ操作の容認を制御し、 前記ログイン判断手段でログインされていない状態と判断され、前記入力手段に第2の認証情報が入力された場合、前記第2の認証情報に基づいて、前記実行中のジョブに対するジョブ操作の容認を制御す ることを特徴とする 情報処理 装置。
- 29前記ログイン制御手段は、 前記入力されたアクセス 認証 情報が前記制御データに含まれる認証情報と合致 した場合に 、前記画像データへのアクセス権付与を承認す ることを特徴とする請求項 28に記載 の 情報処理 装置。
- 30前記ログイン制御手段は、 前記制御データに前記認証情報が含まれていない場合に、前記画像データへのアクセス権を、前記情報処理装置での実行権を持つ全てのユーザに対して付与す ることを特徴とする請求項2 8 または2 9に記載 の 情報処理 装置。
- 31前記ロ グイン 制御 手段 は 、 前記 ログイン認証時に 入力され た認 証情報 に 基 づいて 、前 記受 信 され た画像データ へのアクセス権付与を承認する か否かを 前記画像データごとに 判断す る こ とを特徴とする 請求項28または29に記載の 情報処理装置。
- 32前記 ログイン制御 手段は、 前記 入力 された アクセス認証情報に基づい て、 前記ログイン認証を行う ことを特徴とする請求項 28または29に 記載の情報処理装置。
- 33前記 ジョブ操作処理制御 手段は、 前記 ログイン制御手段により前記アクセス権 付与 が承認された場合に 、前 記画 像データ の 処理 を停止させ ることを特徴とする請求項 28または29に 記載の情報処理装置。
- 34前記 ジョブ操作処理制御 手段は、 前 記ア クセス 要求が入力されると 、前記画像データ の処理を停止させ ることを特徴とする請求項 28または29に 記載の情報処理装置。
- 35前記 ログイン制御手 段は、 前記 アクセス権付与を承認した 画像データへのアクセス 要求が再度入力された場合に 、前記 アクセス要求がされた画像データへのアクセスを許可 することを特徴とする請求項 28または29に 記載の情報処理装置。
- 36前記 情報処理装置 は、 計時を行う計時手段を有し、 前記 認証 手段は 、 前記 計時手段により計時 された 時間が予め設定された時間を経過すると、前記 画像データ に付与した アクセス権を 失効させ ることを特徴とする請求項 28または29に記載 の情報処理装置。
- 37前記 計時 手段は、 前記 認証手段により前記 アクセス 権付与が承認されると、計時を開始する ことを特徴とする請求項 36 に記載の情報処理装置。
- 38前記 計時 手段は、 前 記ア クセス権 が 付 与さ れ た画 像データ に対するアクセスが行われると、計時を開始す ることを特徴とする 請求項36または37 に記載の情報処理装置。
- 39前記 ログイン制御 手段は、 前記アクセス 権が付与されてから 、 該アクセス権を付与した 画像データ へのアクセスが行われるまでの間、該画像データへのアクセスを許可す ることを特徴とする請求項 28または29に 記載の情報処理装置。
- 40前記 ログイン制御 手段は、 前記アクセス権 が 付与 されてから、前記計時手段により計時された時間が予め設定された時間を経過するまでの間、前記アクセス権のある複数の連続した 画像データへのアクセスを許可することを特徴とする請求項 28または29に 記載の情報処理装置。
- 41前記 ログイン制御手段 は、 前記アクセス権が付与されてから、 前記計時手段により計時された時間が予め設定された時間を経過する までの間 、前 記ア クセス権 のある複数の間引かれた画像データへのアクセスを許可す ることを特徴とする請求項 28または29に 記載の情報処理装置。
- 42前記 ログイン制御手段 は、 予め機器管理者によって、実行中のジョブ操作に関する認証を不要とする設定を行いう ることを特徴とする請求項 28または29に 記載の情報処理装置。
- 43予め機器管理者によって実行中のジョブ操作に関しての認証を不要とする設定はジョブリセットに関するものとした ことを特徴とする請求項42に記載の情報処理装置。
- 44予め機器管理者によって実行中のジョブ操作に関しての認証を不要とする設定は、エラー解除のための機能解除に関するものとした ことを特徴とする請求項4 2に 記載の情報処理装置。
- 45予め機器管理者によって実行中のジョブ操作に関しての認証を不要とする設定を、エラー発生中のジョブリセットに関するものとした ことを特徴とする請求項4 2に 記載の情報処理装置。
- 46予め機器管理者によって、実行中のジョブ操作に関する認証について、情報処理装置での実行権を有するものであれば操作可能とする設定を行いう ることを特徴とする請求項4 2に 記載の情報処理装置。
- 47予 め機器管理者によって、実行中のジョブ操作の 内、ジョブリセットに関しては情報処装置での実行権を有するものであれば操作可能 とする設定を行いうることを特徴とする請求項4 2に 記載の情報処理装置。
- 48予め機器管理者によって 、 実行中のジョブ操作 の内、エラー解除の為の機能解除に関しては情報処理装置での実行権を有するものであれば操作可能であると言う設定を行いうる ことを特徴とする請求項4 2に 記載の情報処理装置。
- 49予め機器管理者によって 、 実行中のジョブ操作 の内 、エラー 発生中のジョブリセットに関しては情報処理装置での実行権を有するものであれば操作可能であると言う設定をおこないうる ことを特徴とする請求項4 2に 記載の情報処理装置。
- 50ジ ョブ の実行権を持たない者が操作を行った際は、ログにその旨記録する ことを特徴とする請求項4 2に 記載の情報処理装置。
- 51ジ ョブ の実行権を持たない者が操作を行った際は、対象となるジョブオーナーに対して、通知が行われ ることを特徴とする請求項4 2に 記載の情報処理装置。
- 52予め機器管理者によって、実行中の パブリック属性の ジョブ操作 に関しては 、ジョブ 操作 に関 する認証を必要 とする設定を行いうることを特徴とする請求項4 2に 記載の情報処理装置。
- 53実 行中のジョブ操作 に関する認証を不要とするのは 、エラー 発生後一定時間が経過した場合に限定する 設定 ができ ることを特徴とする請求項 44または45に 記載の情報処理装置。
- 54実 行中のジョブ操作 に関する認証を装置 の実行権を有するもの とするのは、エラー発生後一定時間が経過した場合に限定する 設定 ができ ることを特徴とする請求項 44または45に 記載の情報処理装置。
- 55実行を要求する画像データを送信する外部装置と、該外部装置から受信した処理データの処理を実行する情報処理装置と、を有する情報処理システムであって、 前記情報処理装置は、 該情報処理装置へログインするための第1の認証情報、または前記要求された ジョブに 対する所定のジョブ操作を容認するための第2の認証情報を入力する入力手段と、 前記入力手段で入力された第1の認証情報に基づいて、前記情報処理装置へのログインを制御するログイン制御手段と、 前記入力手段で入力された第2の認証情報に基づいて、前記要求されたジョブに対するジョブ操作の容認を制御するジョブ操作制御手段と、 実行中のジョブに対する所定の操作が行われた際に、ログインされている状態であるか否か判断するログイン判断手段と、 を有し、 前記ジョブ操作処理制御手段は、 前記ログイン判断手段でログインされている状態と判断された場合に、前記ログイン制御手段で前記ログインを制御した第1の認証情報に基づいて、前記実行中のジョブに対するジョブ操作の容認を制御し、 前記ログイン判断手段でログインされていない状態と判断され、前記入力手段に第2の認証情報が入力された場合、前記第2の認証情報に基づいて、前記実行中のジョブに対するジョブ操作の容認を制御する ことを特徴とす る情 報処理 システム 。
- 56印刷 ジョブの 画像形成を行う画像形成装置における認証方法であって、 前記画像形成装置が、該画像形成装置にログインするための第1の認証情報、または印刷ジョブに対する所定のジョブ操作を容認するための第2の認証情報を入力する入力手段と、 前記入力手段で入力された第1の認証情報に基づいて、前記画像形成装置へのログインを制御するログイン制御手段と、 前記入力手段で入力された第2の認証情報に基づいて、印刷 ジョ ブに 対 するジョブ操作の容認を制御するジョブ操作制御手段と、 画像形成中の印刷ジョブに対する所定の操作が行われた際に、ログインされている状態であるか否か判断するログイン判断手段と、 を有し、 前記ジョブ操作処理制御手段は、 前記ログイン判断手段でログインされている状態と判断された場合、前記ログイン制御手段で前記ログインを制御した第1の認証情報に基づいて、前記画像形成中の印刷ジョブに対するジョブ操作の容認を制御し、 前記ログイン判断手段でログインされていない状態と判断され、前記入力手段に第2の認証情報が入力された場合、前記第2の認証情報に基づいて、前記画像形成中の印刷ジョブに対するジョブ操作の容認を制御す ることを特徴とする 認証方法 。
- 57外部装置から印刷要求が行われた画像データを受信する画像データ受信手段を有する情報処理装置における認証方法であって、 前記情報処理装置が、通信網を介して外部装置と接続され、該外部装置から処理が要求されたジョブを実行するものであって、 該情報処理装置にログインするための第1の認証情報、または前記要求されたジョブに対する所定のジョブ操作を容認するための第2の認証情報を入力する入力手段と、 前記入力手段で入力された第1の認証情報に基づいて、前記情報処理装置へのログインを制御するログイン制御手段と、 前記入力手段で入力された第2の認証情報に基づいて、前記要求されたジョブに対するジョブ操作の容認を制御するジョブ操作制御手段と、 実行中 のジ ョブ に対する所定の操作が行われた際に、ログインされている状態であるか否か判断するログイン判断手段と、 を有し、 前記ジョブ操作処理制御手段は、 前記ログイン判断手段でログインされている状態と判断された場合に、前記ログイン制御手段で前記ログインを制御した第1の認証情報に基づいて、前記実行中のジョブに対するジョブ操作の容認を制御し、 前記ログイン判断手段でログインされていない状態と判断され、前記入力手段に第2の認証情報が入力された場合、前記第2の認証情報に基づいて、前記実行中のジョブに対するジョブ操作の容認を制御するものであり、 前記画像データ受信手段により受信した画像データを基に、前記画像データが実行可能な権利を有するか否かを判断し、前記画像データが実行可能な権利を有すると判断した場合に、前記画像データの画像処理を実行する工程と、 前記情報処理装置がログインされた状態で、前記認証情報入力手段により前記アクセス認証情報が入力された際に、該入力されたアクセス認証情報を基に、前記処理実行中の画像データへのアクセス権付与を承認するか否かを決定する工程と、を実行す ることを特徴とする 認証方法 。
- 58印刷 ジョブ の画像形成を行う画像形成装置において実行される認証プログラムであって、 前記画像形成装置が、印刷ジョブの画像形成を行う画像形成装置であって、 画像形成装置にログインするための第1の認証情報、または印刷ジョブに対する所定のジョブ操作を容認するための第2の認証情報を入力する入力手段と、 前記入力手段で入力された第1の認証情報に基づいて、画像形成装置へのログインを制御するログイン制御手段と、 前記入力手段で入力された第2の認証情報に基づいて、印刷ジョブに対するジョブ操作の容認を制御するジョブ操作制御手段と、 画像形成中の印刷ジョブに対する所定の操作が行われた際に、ログインされている状態であるか否か判断するログイン判断手段と、 を有し、 前記ジョブ操作処理制御手段は、 前記ログイン判断手段でログインされている状態と判断された場合、前記ログイン制御手段で前記ログインを制御した第1の認証情報に基づいて、前記画像形成中の印刷ジョブに対するジョブ操作の容認を制御し、 前記ログイン判断手段でログインされていない状態と判断され、前記入力手段に第2の認証情報が入力された場合、前記第2の認証情報に基づいて、前記画像形成中の印刷ジョブに対するジョブ操作の容認を制御するものであり、 前記画像形成装置がログインされた状態で、前記操作部から所定の操作が行われた際に、前記画像形成手段により実行中の印刷ジョブに対する所定の操作を容認するための認証情報の入力を要求し、前記認証情報入力手段により入力された認証情報の認証が証明された場合に、前記印刷ジョブに対する所定の操作を容認する処理を実行す ることを特徴とする 認証プログラム 。
- 59外部装置から印刷要求が行われた画像データを受信する画像データ受信手段と、前記画像データへアクセスするための認証情報であるアクセス認証情報を入力する認証情報入力手段と、操作部からの所定の入力操作を容認するための認証情報であるログイン認証情報を入力するログイン情報入力手段と、制御手段と、を有する情報処理装置において実行される認証プログラムであって、 前記情報処理装置が、通信網を介して外部装置と接続され、該外部装置から処理が要求されたジョブを実行するものであって、 該情報処理装置にログインするための第1の認証情報、または前記要求されたジョブに対する所定のジョブ操作を容認するための第2の認証情報を入力する入力手段と、 前記入力手段で入力された第1の認証情報に基づいて、前記情報処理装置へのログインを制御するログイン制御手段と、 前記入力手段で入力された第2の認証情報に基づいて、前記要求されたジョブに対するジョブ操作の容認を制御するジョブ操作制御手段と、 実行中のジョブに対する所定の操作が行われた際に、ログインされている状態であるか否か判断するログイン判断手段と、 を有し、 前記ジョブ操作処理制御手段は、 前記ログイン判断手段でログインされている状態と判断された場合に、前記ログイン制御手段で前記ログインを制御した第1の認証情報に基づいて、前記実行中のジョブに対するジョブ操作の容認を制御し、 前記ログイン判断手段でログインされていない状態と判断され、前記入力手段に第2の認証情報が入力された場合、前記第2の認証情報に基づいて、前記実行中のジョブに対するジョブ操作の容認を制御するものであり、 前記画像データ受信手段により受信した画像データを基に、前記画像データが実行可能な権利を有するか否かを判断し、前記画像データが実行可能な権利を有すると判断した場合に、前記画像データの画像処理を実行する処理と、 前記情報処理装置がログインされた状態で、前記認証情報入力手段により前記アクセス認証情報が入力された際に、該入力されたアクセス認証情報を基に、前記処理実行中の画像データへのアクセス権付与を承認するか否かを決定する処理を実行す ることを特徴とする 認証プログラム 。
- 60請求項58または59記載の認証プログラムを記録したコンピュータ読み取り可能な記録媒体 。
Independent claims60
197 paragraphs, as filed
The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, an information processing apparatus, an information processing system, an authentication method, an authentication program and a recording medium, and more particularly, an image forming apparatus, an information processing apparatus, an information processing system, an authentication method, an authentication program and a job authentication. It relates to a recording medium.
In recent years, there is an image processing device (multifunction device) capable of realizing a plurality of functions such as a printer, a copy, a fax, and a scanner in one device. An operating user who requires user authentication in such an image processing device when executing a function such as a printer, a copy, a fax, or a scanner in the image processing device, and the user authentication is registered in the image processing device. There are some that allow the use of functions in the image processing device. For example, the user ID / password entered from the operation unit (touch panel, etc.) of the image processing device is authenticated, and only when the authentication is permitted, the use in the image processing device is permitted and the image processing device is permitted. Some of them identify the operating user who can use the functions in.
As a technical document filed prior to the present invention, there is one that authenticates a user by inputting a password and permits the user to use the image forming apparatus (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In Patent Document 1, the priority of a job reserved in the multifunction device by the user corresponding to the password is obtained only when the multifunction device authenticates the password entered by the user and determines that the password is valid. By permitting the change of the order and the clearing of the job, only the operating user who reserved the job in the multifunction device can change the priority of the reserved job and clear the reserved job.<patcit num="1"><text>Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2001-111743</text></patcit>
<p> In addition, some multifunction devices connect to a host computer via a network, receive print data transmitted from the host computer, and perform printing processing. However, while the print process is being executed by the print request from the host computer, a second user different from the first user who made the print request logs in from the operation unit provided in the multifunction device. If the right to use the function in the multifunction device is given to the logged-in second user, the second user who has obtained the right to use the function in the multifunction device is printing or waiting for the printing turn. There is a risk of performing change operations such as deleting, canceling functions, and changing the number of copies for another person's job.</p><p> Further, the image forming apparatus of Patent Document 1 inputs authentication information consisting of a user ID and a password required for performing an operation on a job in the apparatus into the apparatus, and when the authentication permission for the job is given. , It is possible to change the settings of the functions in the device, but the relationship between the authentication for operating the job sent from the external device such as the host computer and the authentication for operating the image forming device. No consideration is given to.</p><p> Furthermore, even if some processing is performed for these relationships, if an error occurs in the running job and the device is stopped, there will be no person who has the right to operate the target job. During that time, there was a problem that the device could not be used.</p><p> The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and includes an image forming apparatus, an information processing apparatus, an information processing system, an authentication method, an authentication program, and an image forming apparatus, an information processing apparatus, an information processing system, and an authentication method, which provide a highly reliable security environment for jobs input from an external device. The purpose is to provide a recording medium.</p>
<p> In order to achieve such an object, the present invention shall have the following features.</p><p> The image forming apparatus according to the present invention is<u style="single">An image forming device that forms an image of a print job.</u><u style="single">Log in to the image forming device</u>in order to<u style="single">First</u>Authentication information<u style="single">, Or a second to allow a given job operation for a print job</u>Authentication information<u style="single">Enter</u>Input means and<u style="single">Based on the first authentication information input by the input means, the image forming apparatus is supplied.</u>Logi<u style="single">Login control</u>Means and Said<u style="single">Based on the second credential entered by the input means</u>Print job<u style="single">Job operation control that controls the acceptance of job operations for</u>Means and<u style="single">When a predetermined operation is performed on a print job during image formation</u>Login<u style="single">Login judgment to judge whether or not it is in the state</u>Means and Have<u style="single">And</u><u style="single">The job operation processing control means is</u><u style="single">When it is determined that the user is logged in by the login determination means, the acceptance of the job operation for the print job during image formation is controlled based on the first authentication information for which the login is controlled by the login control means. ,</u><u style="single">When it is determined that the user is not logged in by the login determination means and the second authentication information is input to the input means, the job operation for the print job during image formation is performed based on the second authentication information. Control acceptance</u>To do It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention is<u style="single">The job operation processing control means is</u> Said<u style="single">When it is determined that the user is logged in by the login determining means, the image is being formed based on the first authentication information for which the login is controlled by the login controlling means.</u>For print jobs<u style="single">Job for</u>operation<u style="single">of</u>Acceptance<u style="single">To control</u>, Previous<u style="single">Note</u>Job<u style="single">Operation was not allowed</u>Field<u style="single">If,</u>Said<u style="single">Judges whether or not a predetermined attribute is added to the print job during image formation,</u><u style="single">When it is determined that the predetermined attribute is added, the image is being formed.</u>For print jobs<u style="single">job</u>operation<u style="single">of</u>Acceptance<u style="single">Control</u>To do It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention is<u style="single">The login control means</u><u style="single">If the authentication of the above authentication information is proved while you are not logged in,</u>Previous<u style="single">Seal</u>For printing jobs<u style="single">While accepting the prescribed operation to be performed</u>, Said<u style="single">The above using the authentication information as login authentication information</u>Image formation<u style="single">apparatus</u>To<u style="single">Log in</u>It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, the above<u style="single">Login</u>The control means is<u style="single">Previous</u>Record<u style="single">When a predetermined operation is performed from the operation unit, it is being executed by the image forming means.</u>Print job<u style="single">After temporarily stopping</u>You need to enter the authentication information<u style="single">Want</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, the above<u style="single">Login</u>The control means is<u style="single">Previous</u>When a predetermined operation is performed from the operation unit,<u style="single">Approval</u>Requested to enter proof information, before<u style="single">Fill in</u>When the authentication of the authentication information entered by force means is proved,<u style="single">After temporarily stopping the running print job by the image forming means,</u>Allow certain operations on the print job It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, the above<u style="single">Login</u>The control means is<u style="single">Previous</u>Record<u style="single">Entered</u>After the authentication of the authentication information is proved, the above<u style="single">From the operation unit</u>Predetermined operation<u style="single">If</u>, Said<u style="single">To allow a given operation on a print job</u>Authentication information<u style="single">Do not require input</u>It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, the control means is<u style="single">After the authentication of the authentication information input by the input means is proved,</u>A predetermined operation was performed from the operation unit.<u style="single">If</u>To<u style="single">To allow a predetermined operation for the print job within a preset valid time.</u>Prompt for credentials<u style="single">do not do</u>It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, the above<u style="single">Login</u>The control means is Previous<u style="single">Fill in</u>Authentication of the authentication information entered by force means has been proved<u style="single">rear</u>In addition, when a predetermined operation is performed from the operation unit until the predetermined operation for the print job is completed.<u style="single">To</u>, Said<u style="single">Running by image forming means</u>Does not require you to enter credentials to allow a given operation for a print job It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, the above<u style="single">Preset valid time</u>Is the authentication information<u style="single">Acknowledged</u>Proof of proof<u style="single">It is the time measured since</u>It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, the above<u style="single">Preset valid time</u>Before<u style="single">Approval</u>After the authentication of the certificate information is proved, a predetermined operation is performed from the operation unit.<u style="single">It is the time clocked every time</u>It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, the above<u style="single">Login</u>The control means is Said<u style="single">Input by input means</u>After the credentials are certified,<u style="single">When a predetermined operation is performed from the operation unit, if it is within a preset effective time,</u>For the print job<u style="single">Against</u>Request to enter credentials to allow certain operations<u style="single">Instead, allow a predetermined operation for a plurality of consecutive print jobs for which a predetermined operation can be tolerated by the authentication information whose authentication has been proved.</u>It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention,<u style="single">The login control means</u><u style="single">When a predetermined operation is performed from the operation unit after the authentication of the authentication information input by the input means is proved.</u>Within a preset valid time<u style="single">If so, the input of the authentication information for accepting the predetermined operation for the print job is not required.</u>,Previous<u style="single">Approval</u>Proof of proof<u style="single">For a plurality of print jobs for which a predetermined operation can be tolerated by the authentication information, even if the print job includes a print job for which the predetermined operation cannot be tolerated by the authentication information, the predetermined operation can be performed. To tolerate</u>It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, the above<u style="single">Input by input means</u>Authentication of authentication information<u style="single">To</u>Proof<u style="single">Have a management means to manage the information to do</u> Said<u style="single">The control means is</u><u style="single">Prove the authentication of the authentication information based on the information managed by the management means.</u>It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention is a front.<u style="single">Fill in</u>Authentication of authentication information entered by force means<u style="single">A means of sending a request to an authentication device connected via a communication network,</u><u style="single">Previous</u>Of the authentication information from the authentication device that sent the authentication request<u style="single">How to receive the authentication result and</u><u style="single"> Have,</u><u style="single">The login control means</u> Said<u style="single">Recieved</u>Authentication information<u style="single">Prove the authentication of the above authentication information based on the authentication result of</u>To do It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention is described above.<u style="single">Login</u>The control means is<u style="single">Running by the device administrator in advance</u>job<u style="single">Regarding operation</u>Authentication<u style="single">Let's make settings that do not require</u>Ru Claim 1<u style="single">Or to 2</u>The image forming apparatus according to the description.</p><p> Further, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention is<u style="single">Equipment in advance</u>management<u style="single">Regarding the job operation being executed by the person</u>Authentication<u style="single">Unnecessary settings are related to job reset</u>It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention is<u style="single">Preliminary</u>Depending on the device administrator<u style="single">Real</u>Regarding job operations in the line<u style="single">And then</u>Settings that do not require authentication<u style="single">, Regarding job reset during error</u>Ru<u style="single">I made it</u>It is characterized by that.</p><p> In addition, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention is previously provided by the equipment manager.<u style="single">、</u>Regarding the job operation being executed<u style="single">About authentication to</u>hand<u style="single">, If you have the execution right in the image forming device, you can set it so that it can be operated.</u>It is characterized by that.</p><p> In addition, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention is previously provided by the equipment manager.<u style="single">、</u>Running job operation<u style="single">Of these, job reset can be set so that it can be operated if it has the execution right in the image forming device.</u>It is characterized by that.</p><p> In addition, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention is previously provided by the equipment manager.<u style="single">、</u>Running job operation<u style="single">Of</u>,error<u style="single">Regarding the cancellation of the function for cancellation, set that it can be operated if it has the execution right in the image forming device.</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> In addition, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention is previously provided by the equipment manager.<u style="single">、</u>Running job operation<u style="single">Of</u>,error<u style="single">Regarding the cancellation of the function for cancellation, set that it can be operated if it has the execution right in the image forming device.</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention is used by the device administrator in advance to perform a job operation being executed.<u style="single">Of</u>、<u style="single">Regarding job reset during an error, it is said that it can be operated if it has the execution right in the image forming device.</u>Can be set It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention is<u style="single">The</u>Job<u style="single">Those who do not have the right to execute</u>operation<u style="single">When you do, record that in the log</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention is<u style="single">The</u>Job<u style="single">Those who do not have the right to execute</u>operation<u style="single">Will be notified to the target job owner when</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention is previously determined by the device manager.<u style="single">Real</u>In line<u style="single">Public attributes</u>Job operation<u style="single">Regarding</u>Regarding job operation<u style="single">Requires authentication</u>settings<u style="single">line</u>Iru It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention is<u style="single">Running</u>Jo<u style="single">Bus operation</u>Written<u style="single">Does not require authentication for</u>Is<u style="single">It is possible to set only when a certain time has passed after the occurrence of the error.</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention is<u style="single">Running</u>Jo<u style="single">Bus operation</u>Written<u style="single">You have the right to execute the device</u>Is<u style="single">It can be set only when a certain time has passed after the error occurred.</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, it relates to the present invention.<u style="single">Information processing</u>In the device<u style="single">An information processing device that is connected to an external device via a communication network and executes a job for which processing is requested by the external device.</u><u style="single">An input means for inputting the first authentication information for logging in to the information processing device or the second authentication information for accepting a predetermined job operation for the requested job.</u><u style="single">A login control means that controls login to the information processing device based on the first authentication information input by the input means, and a login control means.</u><u style="single">A job operation control means that controls acceptance of a job operation for the requested job based on the second authentication information input by the input means.</u> Running<u style="single">Ji</u>Job<u style="single">A login determination means for determining whether or not a person is logged in when a predetermined operation is performed on the</u><u style="single">Have,</u><u style="single">The job operation processing control means is</u><u style="single">When it is determined that the user is logged in by the login determination means, the acceptance of the job operation for the running job is controlled based on the first authentication information for which the login is controlled by the login control means.</u><u style="single">When it is determined that the user is not logged in by the login determination means and the second authentication information is input to the input means, the job operation is allowed for the running job based on the second authentication information. Control</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, it relates to the present invention.<u style="single">Information processing</u>In the device<u style="single">The login control means</u><u style="single">The entered access</u>Authentication<u style="single">The information matches the authentication information included in the control data</u>If you do<u style="single">Approves the granting of access rights to the image data</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, it relates to the present invention.<u style="single">Information processing</u>In the device<u style="single">The login control means</u><u style="single">When the control data does not include the authentication information, the access right to the image data is given to all users who have the execution right in the information processing device.</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention,<u style="single">B</u>Guin<u style="single">control</u>means<u style="single">Is</u>, Said<u style="single">At the time of login authentication</u>Entered<u style="single">Confirmation</u>Certificate information<u style="single">To</u>Basic<u style="single">Next</u>,Previous<u style="single">Receipt</u>Shin<u style="single">Be done</u>Image data<u style="single">Approve the granting of access to</u>Whether or not<u style="single">For each image data</u>Judge<u style="single">Ru</u><u style="single">This</u>It is characterized by.</p><p> Further, in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention, the above<u style="single">Login control</u>The means is Said<u style="single">input</u>Was done<u style="single">Based on access credentials</u>hand,<u style="single">Perform the login authentication</u>It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention, the above<u style="single">Job operation processing control</u>The means is Said<u style="single">The access right by login control means</u>Grant<u style="single">If approved</u>,Previous<u style="single">Drawing</u>Image data<u style="single">of</u>processing<u style="single">To stop</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention, the above<u style="single">Job operation processing control</u>The means is Previous<u style="single">Note</u>Access<u style="single">When the request is entered</u>, The image data<u style="single">Stop the processing of</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention, the above<u style="single">Login control hand</u>The steps are Said<u style="single">Approved access right grant</u>Access to image data<u style="single">If the request is re-entered</u>, Said<u style="single">Allow access to the requested image data</u>To do It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention, the above<u style="single">Information processing device</u>Is<u style="single">Has a timekeeping means to time</u><u style="single">Said</u>Authentication<u style="single">Means</u>, Said<u style="single">Timekeeping by timekeeping means</u>Was done<u style="single">When the time elapses the preset time, the above</u>image data<u style="single">Granted to</u>Access rights<u style="single">Revoke</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention, the above<u style="single">Timekeeping</u>The means is Said<u style="single">Said by authentication means</u>access<u style="single">Once the grant is approved, timekeeping begins</u>It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention, the above<u style="single">Timekeeping</u>The means is Previous<u style="single">Note</u>Access rights<u style="single">But</u>With<u style="single">Given</u>Re<u style="single">Picture</u>Image data<u style="single">Starts timekeeping when access is made to</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention, the above<u style="single">Login control</u>The means is The access<u style="single">After the right was granted</u>、<u style="single">Granted the access right</u>image data<u style="single">Allow access to the image data until access is made to</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention, the above<u style="single">Login control</u>The means is The access right<u style="single">But</u>Grant<u style="single">A plurality of consecutive times for which the access right is granted until the time measured by the timekeeping means elapses a preset time.</u>Allow access to image data It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention, the above<u style="single">Login control means</u>Is<u style="single">After the access right is granted</u>The time timed by the timekeeping means elapses a preset time.<u style="single">Until</u>,Previous<u style="single">Note</u>Access rights<u style="single">Allow access to multiple decimated image data</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention, the above<u style="single">Login control means</u>Is<u style="single">Make settings in advance by the device administrator to eliminate the need for authentication related to the job operation being executed.</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention,<u style="single">The setting that does not require authentication for the job operation being executed by the device administrator in advance is related to job reset.</u>It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention,<u style="single">The setting that does not require authentication for the job operation being executed by the device administrator in advance is related to the function cancellation for error cancellation.</u>It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention,<u style="single">The setting that does not require authentication for the job operation being executed by the device administrator in advance is related to job reset during an error.</u>It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention,<u style="single">In advance, the device administrator should set the authentication related to the job operation being executed so that it can be operated if it has the execution right in the information processing device.</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention,<u style="single">Preliminary</u>For job operations being executed by the device administrator<u style="single">Among them, job reset can be operated as long as it has the execution right in the information processing device.</u>Can be set to It is characterized by that.</p><p> In addition, in the information processing device according to the present invention, the device administrator has previously<u style="single">、</u>Running job operation<u style="single">Among them, regarding the function cancellation for error cancellation, it is possible to set that it can be operated if it has the execution right in the information processing device.</u>It is characterized by that.</p><p> In addition, in the information processing device according to the present invention, the device administrator has previously<u style="single">、</u>Running job operation<u style="single">Of</u>,error<u style="single">Regarding the job reset that is occurring, it is possible to set that it can be operated if it has the execution right in the information processing device.</u>It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention,<u style="single">The</u>Job<u style="single">When a person who does not have the execution right of is performing an operation, record that fact in the log.</u>It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention,<u style="single">The</u>Job<u style="single">When a person who does not have the execution right of is performing an operation, the target job owner is notified.</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> In addition, information processing according to the present invention.<u style="single">apparatus</u>Is being executed by the device administrator in advance.<u style="single">Public attributes</u>Job operation<u style="single">about</u>,job<u style="single">operation</u>Seki<u style="single">Requires authentication</u>Can be set to It is characterized by that.</p><p> In addition, information processing according to the present invention.<u style="single">apparatus</u>In<u style="single">Actual</u>Job operations in line<u style="single">Does not require authentication for</u>,error<u style="single">Only when a certain amount of time has passed since the occurrence</u>Configuration<u style="single">Can be done</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> In addition, information processing according to the present invention.<u style="single">apparatus</u>In<u style="single">Actual</u>Job operations in line<u style="single">Authentication device</u>Those who have the right to execute<u style="single">Is limited to the case where a certain period of time has passed after the error occurred.</u>Configuration<u style="single">Can be done</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> In addition, information processing according to the present invention.<u style="single">the system</u>、<u style="single">An information processing system including an external device that transmits image data requested to be executed and an information processing device that executes processing of processing data received from the external device.</u><u style="single">The information processing device</u><u style="single">The first authentication information for logging in to the information processing device, or the requested</u>To the job<u style="single">An input means for entering a second credential to allow a given job operation for</u><u style="single"> A login control means that controls login to the information processing device based on the first authentication information input by the input means, and a login control means.</u><u style="single">A job operation control means that controls acceptance of a job operation for the requested job based on the second authentication information input by the input means.</u><u style="single">A login determination means for determining whether or not a user is logged in when a predetermined operation is performed on a running job.</u><u style="single">Have,</u><u style="single">The job operation processing control means is</u><u style="single">When it is determined that the user is logged in by the login determination means, the acceptance of the job operation for the running job is controlled based on the first authentication information for which the login is controlled by the login control means.</u><u style="single">When it is determined that the user is not logged in by the login determination means and the second authentication information is input to the input means, the job operation is allowed for the running job based on the second authentication information. Control</u>It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, it relates to the present invention.<u style="single">The authentication method is</u>、<u style="single">printing</u>Of the job<u style="single">It is an authentication method in an image forming apparatus that forms an image.</u><u style="single">An input means for the image forming apparatus to input a first authentication information for logging in to the image forming apparatus or a second authentication information for accepting a predetermined job operation for a print job.</u><u style="single">A login control means that controls login to the image forming apparatus based on the first authentication information input by the input means, and</u><u style="single">Print based on the second authentication information entered by the input means</u>Jo<u style="single">To bu</u>versus<u style="single">Job operation control means that controls the acceptance of job operations to be performed,</u><u style="single">A login determination means for determining whether or not a user is logged in when a predetermined operation is performed on a print job during image formation.</u><u style="single">Have,</u><u style="single">The job operation processing control means is</u><u style="single">When it is determined that the user is logged in by the login determination means, the acceptance of the job operation for the print job during image formation is controlled based on the first authentication information for which the login is controlled by the login control means. ,</u><u style="single">When it is determined that the user is not logged in by the login determination means and the second authentication information is input to the input means, the job operation for the print job during image formation is performed based on the second authentication information. Control acceptance</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> In addition, the certification according to the present invention.<u style="single">Method</u>Is<u style="single">An authentication method in an information processing device having an image data receiving means for receiving an image data for which a print request has been made from an external device.</u><u style="single">The information processing device is connected to an external device via a communication network and executes a job requested to be processed by the external device.</u><u style="single">An input means for inputting the first authentication information for logging in to the information processing device or the second authentication information for accepting a predetermined job operation for the requested job.</u><u style="single">A login control means that controls login to the information processing device based on the first authentication information input by the input means, and a login control means.</u><u style="single">A job operation control means that controls acceptance of a job operation for the requested job based on the second authentication information input by the input means.</u> Running<u style="single">Ji</u>Job<u style="single">A login determination means for determining whether or not a person is logged in when a predetermined operation is performed on the</u><u style="single">Have,</u><u style="single">The job operation processing control means is</u><u style="single">When it is determined that the user is logged in by the login determination means, the acceptance of the job operation for the running job is controlled based on the first authentication information for which the login is controlled by the login control means.</u><u style="single">When it is determined that the user is not logged in by the login determination means and the second authentication information is input to the input means, the job operation is allowed for the running job based on the second authentication information. To control</u><u style="single">Based on the image data received by the image data receiving means, it is determined whether or not the image data has an executable right, and when it is determined that the image data has an executable right, the image data And the process of performing image processing</u><u style="single">When the access authentication information is input by the authentication information input means while the information processing device is logged in, the access right to the image data being executed is based on the input access authentication information. Perform the process of deciding whether to approve the grant and</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, the certification program according to the present invention is<u style="single">printing</u>job<u style="single">It is an authentication program executed in an image forming apparatus that forms an image of.</u><u style="single">The image forming apparatus is an image forming apparatus that forms an image of a print job.</u><u style="single">An input means for inputting the first authentication information for logging in to the image forming apparatus or the second authentication information for accepting a predetermined job operation for the print job.</u><u style="single">A login control means that controls login to the image forming apparatus based on the first authentication information input by the input means, and</u><u style="single">A job operation control means that controls acceptance of a job operation for a print job based on the second authentication information input by the input means, and</u><u style="single">A login determination means for determining whether or not a user is logged in when a predetermined operation is performed on a print job during image formation.</u><u style="single">Have,</u><u style="single">The job operation processing control means is</u><u style="single">When it is determined that the user is logged in by the login determination means, the acceptance of the job operation for the print job during image formation is controlled based on the first authentication information for which the login is controlled by the login control means. ,</u><u style="single">When it is determined that the user is not logged in by the login determination means and the second authentication information is input to the input means, the job operation for the print job during image formation is performed based on the second authentication information. It controls acceptance and</u><u style="single">When a predetermined operation is performed from the operation unit while the image forming apparatus is logged in, the image forming means requests input of authentication information for accepting the predetermined operation for the print job being executed. Then, when the authentication of the authentication information input by the authentication information input means is proved, a process for accepting a predetermined operation for the print job is executed.</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, the certification program according to the present invention is<u style="single">An image data receiving means for receiving image data for which a print request has been made from an external device, an authentication information input means for inputting access authentication information which is authentication information for accessing the image data, and a predetermined operation unit. An authentication program executed in an information processing device having a login information input means for inputting login authentication information, which is authentication information for accepting an input operation, and a control means.</u><u style="single">The information processing device is connected to an external device via a communication network and executes a job requested to be processed by the external device.</u><u style="single">An input means for inputting the first authentication information for logging in to the information processing device or the second authentication information for accepting a predetermined job operation for the requested job.</u><u style="single">A login control means that controls login to the information processing device based on the first authentication information input by the input means, and a login control means.</u><u style="single">A job operation control means that controls acceptance of a job operation for the requested job based on the second authentication information input by the input means.</u><u style="single">A login determination means for determining whether or not a user is logged in when a predetermined operation is performed on a running job.</u><u style="single">Have,</u><u style="single">The job operation processing control means is</u><u style="single">When it is determined that the user is logged in by the login determination means, the acceptance of the job operation for the running job is controlled based on the first authentication information for which the login is controlled by the login control means.</u><u style="single">When it is determined that the user is not logged in by the login determination means and the second authentication information is input to the input means, the job operation is allowed for the running job based on the second authentication information. To control</u><u style="single">Based on the image data received by the image data receiving means, it is determined whether or not the image data has an executable right, and when it is determined that the image data has an executable right, the image data And the process of executing the image processing of</u><u style="single">When the access authentication information is input by the authentication information input means while the information processing device is logged in, the access right to the image data being executed is based on the input access authentication information. Execute the process to decide whether to approve the grant</u>Ru It is characterized by that.</p><p> Further, it relates to the present invention.<u style="single">Computer-readable recording medium</u>Is<u style="single">Recorded the certification program according to claim 58 or 59</u>It is characterized by that.</p>
<p> According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the reliability of the security environment for jobs input from an external device.</p>
Hereinafter, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings according to the following examples.
(Configuration of image formation system) FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an image forming system of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration of an image forming system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Hereinafter, the configuration and operation of the image forming system in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. In this embodiment, an image forming apparatus will be described as an example of the information processing apparatus, but any information processing apparatus having the same authentication function or the like may be used. Further, hereinafter, in the present embodiment, the job is electronic data including print data and print request, but it may be data and process request for executing processing other than printing.
As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming system in this embodiment includes an image forming apparatus 100, a host computer 120, and a network 130, and the image forming apparatus includes an authentication information input means 200, a control means 300, and processing execution. A means (image forming means) 400 is provided. The control means 300 allows the input operation in the information processing apparatus based on the login information input means 301 for inputting the login authentication information which is the authentication information for accepting the input operation and the input login authentication information. Based on the login authentication means 302 for determining whether or not to perform, the image data receiving means 303 for receiving the image data for which a print request has been made from the host computer 120, and the received image data, the information processing apparatus said. Based on the execution right determination means 304 that determines whether or not the image data has the executeable right and the access authentication information, it is determined whether or not to approve the granting of the access right to the image data during the processing. It is equipped with authentication means 305.
The operation of the image forming apparatus 100 is normally restricted, and the image forming apparatus 100 is constructed so as to perform login authentication and allow only a user who has successfully logged in to operate the own apparatus. Note that login authentication and authentication for permitting operations on a running job (job authentication) are independent authentications, and the user cannot perform operations on a running job just by logging in. become.
The host computer 120 transmits a job requesting printing to the image forming apparatus 100 by the operation of the user. The image forming apparatus 100 executes printing only for the jobs having the printing right in the image forming apparatus 100 among the jobs received from the host computer 120.
Here, in the present embodiment, the job is assumed to be electronic data including print data, job authentication information, and a print request input from the outside to the image forming apparatus 100. The job authentication information is electronic data including a user ID and password of a user who operates the host computer 120 and makes a print request (hereinafter, an execution instruction user). Further, a user who logs in to the image forming apparatus 100 and performs an operation is defined as an operating user. The job operation includes an operation of canceling a function for avoiding a job error, a reset (cancel) operation, a forced print, and the like, and is an operation performed individually for a running job.
The image forming apparatus 100 is connected to one or more host computers 120 via a network 130. The image forming apparatus 100 executes each process as a printer, a copy, a facsimile, and a scanner in response to a direct operation by an operating user, a printing command performed via a network 130, or the like.
The image forming apparatus 100 includes a CPU 101, a ROM 102, an operation display unit 103, a printer unit 104, a compression / decompression unit 105, an I / F unit 106, a data storage unit 107, a memory 108, and an image forming unit 109. It is configured to include a timer 110 and a scanner unit 111, and realizes each function shown in FIG. The image forming apparatus 100 does not include the timer 110, and may be counted and timed by the CPU 101.
The ROM 102 stores an OS (Operating System) that manages the system environment of the image forming apparatus 100, various middleware, and an application for executing each printing process / image reading process as a printer, copy, facsimile, scanner, or the like. Is what you do. The CPU 101 reads out the middleware and software in the ROM 102, respectively, and controls the entire image forming apparatus 100.
The operation display unit 103 is a portion that displays the operating status of the image forming apparatus 100, and for example, a display such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) can be applied. Further, the operation display unit 103 further has a function as an operation part for inputting various information, and for example, a touch panel configured by providing various keys on the screen can be applied.
The printer unit 104 performs a printing operation. The compression / decompression unit 105 compresses or decompresses print data.
The I / F unit 106 is a portion that transmits / receives data via the network 130. For example, the I / F unit 106 receives a job from the host computer 120. The job includes an execution instruction of a process executed by the CPU 101 and data used for the process. In this embodiment, as an example, the job suggests print data and a print execution command of the print data.
The data storage unit 107 is a portion for storing data. Note that FIG. 3 is a diagram suggesting a data structure in the data storage unit 107 in the first embodiment of the present invention. As suggested in FIG. 3, the data storage unit 107 includes user management information and Stores storage jobs. The user management information is information in which a user ID and a password that permit login to the image forming apparatus 100 or printing processing in the image forming apparatus 100 are associated with each other. The storage job is a job transmitted from the host computer 120 and stored (spooled) in the data storage unit 107.
In addition, the data storage unit 107 stores information indicating the authentication environment of the image forming apparatus 100. For example, the data storage unit 107 stores information indicating whether or not to permit the execution of the print process of the print data when the authentication information is not added to the print data received by the I / F unit 106. .. Hereinafter, in this embodiment, the authentication environment that permits the execution of the print process for print data to which the authentication information is not added is referred to as "simple", and conversely, the authentication environment that prohibits the execution of the print process is referred to as "all". Describe.
The memory 108 is a portion for temporarily storing data. The image forming unit 109 is a portion that analyzes print data to form an image. When the I / F unit 106 receives print data from the host computer 120 via the network 130, the image forming unit 109 analyzes the received print data and forms an image. It will be. At that time, the image forming unit 109 will take out the authentication information added to the print data. The timer 110 performs a time timing operation. The scanner unit 111 reads an image. The CPU 101 compares the authentication information extracted from the print data by the image forming unit 109 with the user management information stored in the data storage unit 107 to perform user authentication. Then, when the CPU 101 determines that the user who has made the print request for the print data is given the right to use the print data based on the authentication result, the printer unit 104 causes the printer unit 104 to execute the print process.
The host computer 120 is an information processing device operated by a user who makes a print request, and sends a job to the image forming device 100 to execute a print process. In addition, it should be noted. The host computer 120 may be a tower-type, desktop-type, or notebook-type general-purpose PC, or may be a mobile communication terminal such as a mobile phone, PHS, or PDA (Personal Digital Assistant).
The network 130 may be a wired communication network such as LAN, WAN, or the Internet (including an access line), or may be a wireless communication network such as a wireless LAN. Further, the network 130 may be a communication network in which wired and wireless are combined. For example, when the host computer 120 is a mobile phone or a PHS, the network 130 may include a base station, an exchange, an exchange control device, an HLR (Home Location Register), and the like.
(Print Data Transmission Operation) Next, the print data transmission operation in the image forming system suggested in FIG. 2 will be described.
First, the host computer 120 sends a job to the image forming apparatus 100 by the operation of the user who executes printing, and requests the image forming apparatus 100 to print the job.
Note that FIG. 4 is a diagram suggesting a structural example of a job transmitted by the host computer 120 to the image forming apparatus 100. As suggested in FIG. 4, the jobs to be transmitted to the image forming apparatus 100 are (1) UEL command, (2) JOB command, (3) SET command, (4) print data in PDL language, and (5). Consists of EOJ commands.
(1) The UEL command is a command for transferring control to PJL, and specifies the start position and end position of the PJL job. (2) The JOB command is a command that indicates the start of a print job. (3) The SET command is a command for making various settings, and includes "AUTHENTICATION USERNAME" and "AUTHENTICATION PASSWORD". Note that "AUTHENTICATION USERNAME" is a user ID for job authentication. In addition, "AUTHENTICATION PASSWORD" is a password for job authentication. (4) The print data in the PDL language describes the print data for the Internet printer to develop the image. (5) The EOJ command is a command that specifies the end of a job.
The host computer 120 inputs the job authentication information (user ID and password) to be passed by the (3) SET command by the operation of the execution instruction user. For example, (3) the SET command is set with the user ID and password of the execution instruction user. If the access right is granted to all users, the host computer 120 will set the "public attribute" in the (3) SET command.
(Login process) Next, the login process by the operating user will be described with reference to FIG. Note that FIG. 5 is a flowchart suggesting the operation of the login process when printing the stored document (confidential, trial, stored document) in the first embodiment of the present invention.
First, the CPU 101 determines whether or not a predetermined key on the operation display unit 103 has been selected by the operating user (step S101). If the CPU 101 determines that the key operation on the operation display unit 103 has not been performed (step S101 / No) by the above determination, the CPU 101 has performed a predetermined key operation on the operation display unit 103. The process of step S101 is repeated until it is determined.
Then, when the CPU 101 determines that the key operation on the operation display unit 103 has been performed (step S101 / Yes), the CPU 101 has already logged in by the operating user in the image forming apparatus 100, and the image forming apparatus 100 has already logged in. However, it is determined whether or not the user is currently logged in (step S102). Based on this determination, if the CPU 101 determines that the image forming apparatus 100 is currently logged in (step S102 / Yes), the CPU 101 determines whether or not the operating user who is currently logged in has the right to execute the printer. It will be (step S107).
Further, in step S102, if the CPU 101 determines that the operating user has not logged in to the image forming apparatus 100 and the image forming apparatus 100 is not currently logged in (step S102 / No), the operation display unit 103 is displayed. The login screen will be displayed at (step S103). Note that FIG. 6 is a diagram suggesting an example of a login screen displayed on the operation display unit 103 in the first embodiment. The operating user enters the user ID and password in the user name and password fields of the login screen suggested in Fig. 6, and presses the "Logon" key to enter the user ID and password from the login screen. Become.
When the user ID and password of the CPU 101 are input from the login screen displayed on the operation display unit 103 (step S104), the user ID and password input from the login screen of the CPU 101 are input to the data storage unit 107. It will be determined whether or not it is associated with the stored user management information (step S105).
Note that FIG. 7 is a diagram suggesting an example of user management information stored in the data storage unit 107 in the first embodiment of the present invention. The user management information suggested in FIG. 7 is data in which the user ID and password of each user and the presence or absence of the execution right of each function (printer, copy, fax, scanner) of the image forming apparatus 100 are associated with each other. It is stored in the storage unit 107. Note that FIG. 7 shows "" when each user has the execution right of each function of the image forming apparatus 100, and x when he / she does not have the execution right.
Explaining based on the user management information suggested in FIG. 7, when a pair of "user ID: 0001" and "password: xxxx1" is input from the login screen, the user suggested in FIG. 7 by that pair. Since it matches the management information, CPU101 determines that the login is successful. If a pair of "user ID: 0002" and "password: xxxx1" is entered from the login screen, the CPU101 fails to log in because the pair does not match the user management information suggested in FIG. Will be judged.
Next, if the CPU 101 determines in step S105 that the user ID and password entered from the login screen have failed to log in (step S105 / No), The login failure screen is displayed on the operation display unit 103, and the process proceeds to step S103. If the CPU 101 determines that the login is successful (step S105 / Yes), the user ID and password for which login is permitted are temporarily stored in the memory 108 (step S106), and the CPU 101 is on the operation display unit 103. Key operations will be permitted. The user ID and password temporarily stored in the memory 108 will be deleted at the time of logout. Then, when the CPU 101 determines that the login is successful, it refers to the user management information stored in the data storage unit 107 and determines whether or not the operating user who has successfully logged in has the execution right of the printer. Becomes (step S107).
Next, if the CPU 101 determines in step S107 that the logged-in operating user does not have the right to execute the printer (step S107 / No), the CPU 101 uses the printer for the currently logged-in operating user. Is displayed on the operation display unit 103 (step S110), and the process for executing the stored document printing is not performed. If it is determined in step S107 that the operating user who is logged in has the right to execute the printer (step S107 / Yes), the CPU 101 stores the user management information and storage stored in the data storage unit 107. By referring to the job, the job for which the logged-in operation user has acquired (acquirable) the access right will be extracted (step S108).
Next, the CPU 101 displays a list screen of jobs for which the logged-in operation user has acquired (acquirable) access rights, as suggested in FIG. 8, on the operation display unit 103 (step S109). Then, the operation user selects a job from the list screen displayed on the operation display unit 103 and gives a print instruction or a deletion instruction, and the CPU 101 is a job selected from the operation display unit 103. Will be printed or deleted (step S111).
In this way, it is determined whether or not the login for giving the user the operation right to the image forming apparatus 100 has been performed in the image forming apparatus 100, and if it is determined that the login has not been performed, the login is performed. The screen is displayed on the operation display unit 103 included in the image forming apparatus 100, and the operation user is requested to log in. Then, when it is determined that the login has been performed, it is determined whether or not the operating user who has logged in has the execution right of the printer, and when it is determined that the printer has the execution right, the execution right is acquired. The jobs that are being (acquirable) are extracted, and the list of the extracted jobs is displayed on the operation display unit 103. Then, the job selected from the job list is printed or deleted.
When the image forming apparatus 100 executes the printing process of the print data received via the network 130, the host computer 120 may perform the job from the printer driver or the like depending on the type of job (confidential printing, trial printing, etc.). It may not be possible to enter all the print conditions for executing. In this case, the image forming apparatus 100 temporarily stores the print data received in the image forming apparatus 100 in the image forming apparatus 100, and the print instruction is input from the operation display unit (touch panel) 103 included in the image forming apparatus 100. At that point, it is constructed to execute the printing process of the print data once accumulated. At this time, when performing operations such as changing the number of copies, staple designation, or punch designation and setting printing conditions for the print data job received by the image forming apparatus 100, the user can perform operations on the image forming apparatus 100. The authentication information for this is input from the operation panel attached to the operation display unit 103. Then, when the image forming apparatus 100 determines that the authentication is OK for the authentication information input from the operation display unit 103, the image forming apparatus 100 is logged in. As a result, the operating user can perform the operation on the image forming apparatus 100.
(Processing operation at the time of printing of print data received from the host computer) Next, the processing operation at the time of printing in the image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Note that FIG. 9 is a flowchart suggesting a processing operation when the image forming apparatus 100 of the first embodiment receives a print job from the host computer.
First, when the I / F unit 106 receives print data from the host computer 120, the received print data is transmitted to the image forming unit 109. The image forming unit 109 The received print data is analyzed, and it is determined whether or not the authentication information is added to the print data (step S201).
When the image forming unit 109 determines that the authentication information is added to the print data (step S201 / Yes), the image forming unit 109 takes out the authentication information added to the print data. Then, the CPU 101 performs user authentication based on the authentication information extracted from the print data by the image forming unit 109, and determines whether or not the authentication is OK (step S202).
Specifically, the CPU 101 compares the authentication information (user ID and password) added to the print data transmitted from the host computer 120 with the user management information stored in the data storage unit 107. Then, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the authentication information (user ID and password) added to the print data is stored in the data storage unit 107. The CPU 101 temporarily stores the print data and the authentication information (user ID and password) added to the print data in the memory 108 in association with each other until the printing of the print data is completed. become.
When the CPU 101 determines that the authentication is OK, that is, it determines that the authentication information (user ID and password) added to the print data is stored in the data storage unit 107 in association with each other, and If it is determined that the user has the right to execute the printer (step S202 / Yes), the CPU 101 causes the printer unit 104 to execute the printing process of the print data temporarily stored in the memory 108.
Further, when the CPU 101 does not determine that the authentication is OK, that is, when it is determined that the authentication information (user ID and password) added to the print data is not stored in the data storage unit 107 in association with each other, or , When it is determined that the authentication information (user ID and password) added to the print data is associated with each other and stored in the data storage unit 107, but it is determined that the user does not have the execution right of the printer. (Step S202 / No) notifies the user to that effect, and the CPU 101 cancels the job of the print data temporarily stored in the memory 108 (step S204) and ends the processing operation in the image forming apparatus 100. Become.
Further, in step S201, when the image forming unit 109 determines that the authentication information is not added to the print data (step S201 / No), the CPU 101 refers to the inside of the data accumulating unit 107, and the image forming apparatus 100 It is determined whether or not the authentication environment of is set to "Simple" (step S203).
When the CPU 101 determines that the authentication environment of the image forming apparatus 100 is set to "simple" (step S203 / Yes), the CPU 101 adds a public attribute to the print data to which the authentication information is not added. The CPU 101 causes the printer unit 104 to execute the printing process. The public attribute is information suggesting that the print data added as authentication information is print data that does not require authentication when printing is executed. When this public attribute is added to the print data as authentication information, the print process is executed in the image forming apparatus 100 without requiring authentication of the print data.
If the CPU 101 determines that the authentication environment of the image forming apparatus 100 is set to "all" (step S203 / No), the CPU 101 can obtain the authentication of the user who has made the print request for the print data. Judging that there is no such thing, the CPU101 notifies the user to that effect. The job of the print data temporarily stored in the memory 108 will be reset (step S204).
In this way, when the image forming apparatus 100 receives the print data, the authentication information (user ID and password) added to the received print data and the user management information stored in the data storage unit 107 When it is determined that the authentication information added to the received print data is stored in the data storage unit 107, or when the public attribute is added to the received print data as authentication information. If so, the image forming apparatus 100 will execute the printing process.
(User authentication operation when an error occurs) Next, with reference to FIG. 10, in this embodiment, the processing operation in the image forming apparatus 100 when an error occurs that makes it impossible to continue the printing processing execution will be described. Note that FIG. 10 is a flowchart suggesting a processing operation when an error occurs in the image forming apparatus 100 of the first embodiment.
The CPU 101 determines that an error has occurred in the job while the I / F unit 106 continues to receive print data from the host computer 120 one after another and the printer unit 104 prints the received print data. To do. Then, the CPU 101 displays an error message on the operation display unit 103 (step S301).
Then, the CPU 101 identifies the cause of the error that has occurred, and determines whether or not the error that has occurred can be resolved by the information input from the operation display unit 103 (step S302).
For example, if the CPU 101 identifies that the error that has occurred is an error that cannot be avoided by a user operation from the operation display unit 103, such as a paper jam or insufficient printing paper, the CPU 101 is input from the operation display unit 103. It is determined that the error cannot be resolved based on the information (step S302 / No), and the CPU 101 determines whether or not the error has been resolved by performing processing such as paper jam and printing paper shortage by user operation. (Step S303). Then, when the CPU 101 determines that the error has not been resolved (step S303 / No), the CPU 101 repeats the process of step S303, for example, at regular time intervals. Then, when the CPU 101 determines that the error has been resolved (step S303 / Yes), the CPU 101 restarts the printing process in the image forming apparatus 100.
Further, in step S302, when the CPU 101 determines that the generated error can be avoided by the user operation from the operation display unit 103 (step S302 / Yes), the CPU 101 avoids the error from the operation display unit 103. It will be determined whether or not the instruction operation has been performed (step S304). The error avoidance instruction operation is, for example, an operation in which the operation user inputs an instruction for forced printing, staple release, sort release, double-sided release, or other function release using the operation display unit 103 when an error occurs. Suggest.
Next, when the CPU 101 determines in the determination of step S304 that the error avoidance instruction operation has not been performed from the operation display unit 103 (step S304 / No), The process of step S304 is repeated until it is determined that the error avoidance instruction operation is being performed. Then, when the CPU 101 determines that the error avoidance instruction operation has been performed from the operation display unit 103 (step S304 / Yes), the CPU 101 determines whether or not the image forming apparatus 100 is currently logged in. It will be decided (step S305).
Then, when the CPU 101 determines that the image forming apparatus 100 is currently logged in (step S305 / Yes), the operating user who is currently logged in to the image forming apparatus 100 is assigned to the error avoidance target job. It will be determined whether or not the user has the access right (step S306). Specifically, in step S306, the following processing is executed.
First, the CPU 101 matches the user ID and password of the currently logged-in operating user temporarily stored in the memory 108 with the job authentication information (user ID and password) added to the print data. Judge whether or not. If the CPU101 determines that the user IDs and passwords of both users match by this determination, the CPU101 determines that the currently logged-in user has the access right to the error avoidance target job. On the other hand, if the CPU 101 determines that the user IDs and passwords of the two do not match, the CPU 101 determines that the logged-in user does not have the access right to the error avoidance target job. When the CPU 101 recognizes that the public attribute is set in the error avoidance target job, it is determined that all the operating users have the access right to the error avoidance target job.
Next, if the CPU101 determines in step S306 that the currently logged-in operating user has access to the error avoidance target job (step S306 / Yes), the CPU101 is the operating user. A screen for selecting the error avoidance process is displayed on the operation display unit 103 by the operation of (step S307).
Then, when the error avoidance process execution request is made from the screen for selecting the error avoidance process displayed on the operation display unit 103 in step S307, the CPU 101 executes the error avoidance process (step S313) and images. It will be determined whether or not another error has occurred in the forming apparatus 100 (step S321). And CPU101 If it is determined that another error has occurred (step S321 / Yes), the CPU 101 shifts to the process of step S301 and displays the error display screen again on the operation display unit 103. If the CPU 101 determines that no other error has occurred (step S321 / No), the image forming apparatus 100 restarts the printing operation.
Further, when the CPU 101 determines in step S305 that the image forming apparatus 100 is not currently logged in (step S305 / No), or in step S306, the operation currently logged in in the image forming apparatus 100. If the user determines that he / she does not have access to the error avoidance target job (step S306 / No), the CPU 101 determines whether or not the operating user has access to some job operation. It will be (step S314). The processing in step S314 is specifically as follows.
First, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the user ID and password of the operating user, which are temporarily stored in the memory 108, are stored in association with the access right for some job operation. Then, when the CPU 101 determines that the user ID and password of the operating user are associated with the access right for some job operation and are temporarily stored in the memory 108, the CPU 101 determines that the operating user has some access right. Judge that the access right to the job operation is granted. On the other hand, if it is determined that the user ID and password of the operating user are associated with the access right for some job operation and are not temporarily stored in the memory 108, the CPU 101 accesses the operating user for some job operation. Judge that the right has not been granted.
If the CPU 101 determines in step S314 that the operating user has not been granted access to any job operation (step S314 / No), the CPU 101 displays the authentication information input screen on the operation display unit 103. (Step S317).
Note that FIG. 11 is a diagram suggesting an authentication information input screen displayed on the operation display unit 103 in the first embodiment of the present invention. As suggested in FIG. 11, the authentication information input screen displayed on the operation display unit 103 is provided with input fields for a user ID and a password. When it is determined that the user name and password are entered in the input fields on the authentication information input screen suggested in FIG. 11 and the "execute" key on the authentication information input screen suggested in FIG. 11 is pressed, the input is entered. The user ID and password will be temporarily stored in the memory 108. Then, the CPU 101 displays a screen indicating that the access right granting process is being executed on the operation display unit 103 as suggested in FIG.
When the screen indicating that the access right granting process is being executed, which is suggested in FIG. 12, is displayed on the operation display unit 13, the CPU 101 presses the "Cancel" key on the screen indicating that the access right granting process is being executed. Then, it is determined whether or not the instruction to cancel the user authentication process has been given (step S318). Then, when the CPU 101 determines that the instruction to cancel the user authentication process has been given (step S318 / Yes), the CPU 101 proceeds to step S301 and displays the error display screen again on the operation display unit 103. If the CPU 101 determines that the instruction to cancel the user authentication process has not been given (step S318 / No), the CPU 101 determines whether or not the operating user can acquire the access right to the error avoidance target job. (Step S319). Specifically, in step S319, the following processing is executed.
First, the CPU 101 compares the user ID and password entered from the authentication information input screen with the user management information stored in the data storage unit 107, and sets the user ID and password entered from the authentication information input screen. Is associated with each other and is stored in the data storage unit 107. Then, when the CPU 101 determines that the user ID and the password input from the authentication information input screen are associated with each other and stored in the data storage unit 107, the CPU 101 is input from the authentication information input screen. The user ID and password that have been created are checked against the job authentication information contained in the job sent from the host computer 120. Then, when it is determined that the two match, the CPU 101 determines that the operating user can acquire the access right to the error avoidance target job, and transfers the user ID and password entered from the authentication information input screen to the memory 108. It will be temporarily memorized. Further, when the CPU 101 determines that the user ID and password input from the authentication information input screen are not stored in the data storage unit 107 in association with each other, or the user input from the authentication information input screen. If it is determined that the ID and password are associated with each other and stored in the data storage unit 107, but it is determined that they do not match the job authentication information included in the above job, the CPU 101 is the operating user. Will determine that the access right to the job for which error avoidance is to be obtained cannot be obtained.
Next, if the operating user determines in step S319 that the access right to the error avoidance target job cannot be acquired, the CPU 101 determines that the access right cannot be acquired (step S319 / No). A screen indicating that the operation user cannot acquire the access right to the error avoidance target job is displayed on the operation display unit 103, and the process proceeds to step S317. The CPU 101 displays the authentication information input screen suggested in FIG. 11 on the operation display unit 103. It will be displayed again on the top. If the CPU 101 determines in step S319 that the operating user can acquire the access right to the error avoidance target job (step S319 / Yes), the CPU 101 starts timing the effective time on the timer 110. (Step S320). Then, the CPU 101 causes the timer 110 to start timing the effective time, and then displays a screen for selecting the error avoidance process on the operation display unit 103 by the user's operation (step S307). If the CPU 101 determines in step S319 that the operating user cannot acquire the access right to the error avoidance target job (step S319 / No), the process proceeds to step S301, and an error is displayed on the operation display unit 103. It is also possible to display the display screen again.
If the CPU 101 determines in step S314 that the operating user is granted access to some job operation (step S314 / Yes), the CPU 101 is assigned to the operating user the job operation. It is determined whether or not the access right is the access right for the error avoidance target job (step S315). Specifically, the process of step S315 is as follows.
In the CPU 101, the user ID and password of the operating user temporarily stored in the memory 108 are the same as the authentication information (user ID and password) added to the error avoidance target job, or the error avoidance target. When it is determined that the public attribute is added to the job, it is determined that the access right for the job operation given to the operation user is the access right for the error avoidance target job. If it is determined that the user ID and password of the operating user temporarily stored in the memory 108 are not the same as the authentication information (user ID and password) added to the error avoidance target job, the operating user is notified. It is determined that the access right given to the job operation is not the access right to the error avoidance target job.
If the CPU 101 determines in step S315 that the access right to the job operation given to the operating user is not the access right to the error avoidance target job (step S315 / No), the CPU 101 processes the process in step S317. The authentication information input screen suggested in FIG. 11 is displayed on the operation display unit 103 (step S317). If the CPU 101 determines that the access right to the job operation given to the operating user is the access right to the error avoidance target job (step S315 / Yes), the CPU 101 clocks the effective time of the timer 110. It is determined whether or not the valid time for authentication for the job operation preset in the data storage unit 107 has elapsed for the time since the start of (step S316).
When the CPU 101 determines in the determination in step S316 that the time since the timer 110 starts timing the effective time has elapsed the valid time for authentication for the job operation preset in the data storage unit 107, the CPU 101 determines. (Step S316 / Yes), the CPU 101 erases the user ID and password temporarily stored in the memory 108, revoke the access right to the job operation given to the operating user, and then proceeds to step S317. After the transition, the authentication information input screen suggested in FIG. 11 is displayed on the operation display unit 103 (step S317). If the CPU 101 determines that the time since the timer 110 starts timing the valid time does not elapse the valid time for authentication for the job operation preset in the data storage unit 107 (step S316). / No), CPU101 will display a screen for selecting error avoidance processing by the operation of the operating user on the operation display unit 103 (step S307).
Next, in step S305, the CPU 101 determines that the image forming apparatus 100 is currently logged in (step S305 / Yes), and in step S306, the operating user who is currently logged in to the CPU 101 determines that the image forming apparatus 100 is currently logged in. Unless it is determined that you have access to the error avoidance target job (step S306 / Yes) When a predetermined operation is performed, the process proceeds to step S307, and an error avoidance process execution request is made from the screen for selecting the error avoidance process displayed on the operation display unit 103 (step S307), the CPU 101 is set to It is determined whether or not the valid time for authentication for the job operation preset in the data storage unit 107 has elapsed from the time since the timer 110 started counting the valid time (step S308).
If the CPU 101 determines in step S308 that the time since the timer 110 started counting the valid time has not elapsed the valid time for authentication for the job operation preset in the data storage unit 107. (Step S308 / No), the process proceeds to step S313, and the selected error avoidance process is executed (step S313). On the other hand, if the CPU 101 determines that the valid time for authentication for the job operation preset in the data storage unit 107 has elapsed since the timer 110 started timing the valid time, (step S308 / Yes), CPU101 erases the user ID and password temporarily stored in the memory 108, revoke the access right to the error avoidance target job given to the operating user, and then suggests in FIG. The authentication information input screen is displayed on the operation display unit 103, and the user is inquired about the job authentication (step S309).
Next, after the CPU 101 determines that the authentication information is input in the input field of the authentication information input screen as suggested in FIG. 11 displayed on the operation display unit 103 and the "execute" key is pressed, the CPU 101 sets the CPU 101. , A screen indicating that the access right granting process is being executed as suggested in FIG. 12 is displayed on the operation display unit 103. Then, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the "stop" key displayed on the screen indicating that the access right granting process is being executed as shown in FIG. 12 is pressed and the instruction to stop the user authentication process is given. (Step S310). Then, when the CPU 101 determines that the instruction to cancel the user authentication process has been given (step S310 / Yes), the process proceeds to step S301, and the CPU 101 displays the operation display unit 103. The error display screen will be displayed again.
If the CPU 101 determines that the instruction to stop the user authentication process has not been given (step S310 / No), the CPU 101 determines whether or not the operating user can acquire the access right to the error avoidance target job. It will be (step S311). Specifically, the following processing is executed in step S311.
First, the CPU 101 compares the user ID and password entered from the authentication information input screen with the user management information stored in the data storage unit 107, and sets the user ID and password entered from the authentication information input screen. Is associated with each other and is stored in the data storage unit 107. Then, when the CPU 101 determines that the user ID and the password input from the authentication information input screen are associated with each other and stored in the data storage unit 107, the CPU 101 is input from the authentication information input screen. The user ID and password that have been created are checked against the job authentication information contained in the job sent from the host computer 120. Then, when it is determined that the two match, the CPU 101 determines that the operating user can acquire the access right to the error avoidance target job, and transfers the user ID and password entered from the authentication information input screen to the memory 108. It will be temporarily memorized. Further, when the CPU 101 determines that the user ID and password input from the authentication information input screen are not stored in the data storage unit 107 in association with each other, or the user input from the authentication information input screen. If it is determined that the ID and password are associated with each other and stored in the data storage unit 107, but it is determined that they do not match the job authentication information included in the above job, the CPU 101 is the operating user. Will determine that the access right to the job for which error avoidance is to be obtained cannot be obtained.
Next, when the operating user determines in step S311 that the access right to the error avoidance target job cannot be acquired (step S311 / No), the CPU101 determines. The CPU 101 displays a screen on the operation display unit 103 to the effect that the operation user cannot acquire the access right to the error avoidance target job, proceeds to step S309, and displays the authentication information input screen as suggested in FIG. It will be displayed again on the operation display unit 103. If the operating user determines that the access right to the error avoidance target job cannot be acquired (step S311 / No), the process proceeds to step S301, and the error display screen is displayed again on the operation display unit 103. It is also possible to do.
Further, when the operating user determines in step S311 that the access right to the error avoidance target job can be acquired (step S311 / Yes), the CPU 101 causes the timer 110 to start timing the effective time (step). S312).
After that, the CPU 101 executes an error avoidance process (step S313), and determines whether or not another error has occurred in the image forming apparatus 100 (step S321). If the CPU 101 determines that another error has occurred (step S321 / Yes), the CPU 101 shifts to the process of step S301 and displays the error display screen again on the operation display unit 103. .. If the CPU 101 determines that no other error has occurred (step S321 / No), the CPU 101 resumes the printing operation in the image forming apparatus 100.
(First user authentication operation when an error occurs in FIG. 10) Next, the first user authentication operation when an error occurs in FIG. 10 will be described. The first user authentication operation when an error occurs is that the image forming apparatus 100 is currently logged in (step S305 / Yes), and the currently logged-in operating user accesses the error avoidance target job. If you have the right (step S306 / Yes). In this case, the processing operation in the flowchart suggested in FIG. 10 does not shift to the job authenticated? In step S314 when an error occurs, and constantly steps through steps S305 / Yes and S306 / Yes. It will shift to the error avoidance selection process of S307.
(Second user authentication operation when an error occurs in FIG. 10) Next, the second user authentication operation when an error occurs in FIG. 10 will be described. The second user authentication operation when an error occurs is when the image forming apparatus 100 is not currently logged in (step S305 / No). In this case, the processing operation in the flowchart suggested in FIG. 10 shifts to "Job authenticated?" In step S314 when an error occurs, and the operating user is given access right to some job operation. It will be determined whether or not it is (step S314). At this stage, since the operating user has not yet been granted access rights to any job operation (step S314 / No), the process proceeds to step S317, the authentication information input screen is displayed on the operation display unit 103, and the job is performed. An authentication inquiry will be made (step S317).
Next, when the user ID and password are entered from the authentication information input screen, and in step S319, it is determined that the authentication is OK, and it is determined that the operating user can acquire the access right to the error avoidance target job (step S319 / Yes). , The timekeeping of the effective time is started by the timer 110 (step S320), and the screen for selecting the error avoidance selection process is displayed on the operation display unit 103 (step S307). Then, in step S313, the error avoidance process is executed, and the first error avoidance process is completed (step S313). Then, it is determined whether or not there is another error (step S321), and if it is determined that there is another error (step S321 / Yes), the process proceeds to step S301, and the error is displayed again on the operation display unit 103. Will be done (step S301). Then, the process proceeds to step S305, and it is determined whether or not the image forming apparatus 100 is currently logged in (step S305).
In this case, since the image forming apparatus 100 is not logged in (step S305 / No), the process proceeds to step S314, and it is determined whether or not the operating user is given access right to some job operation. It will be (step S314). At this time, during the first error avoidance process, in step S319, it is determined that the operating user has acquired the access right to the error avoidance target job. Therefore, in step S314, some job is given to the operating user. It will be determined that the access right to the operation has been granted (step S314 / Yes). Then, it is determined whether or not the access right to the job operation given to the operation user has the access right to the error avoidance target job (step S315), and it is determined that the access right to the error avoidance target job has. If so (step S315 / Yes), it is determined whether the time since the timer 110 started timing the valid time has passed the valid time of authentication for the preset job operation (step S315 / Yes). Step S316). Then, when it is determined that the valid time of authentication for the job operation has not passed (step S316 / Yes), a screen for selecting the error avoidance selection process is displayed on the operation display unit 103 (step). S307). Then, in step S313, the error avoidance process is executed, and the second error avoidance process is performed (step S313).
Then, in step S321, there are no other errors (step S321 / No), Suppose that after printing is resumed and the printing process elapses, an error occurs again within the valid time of authentication for the job operation. At this time, since the image forming apparatus 100 is not logged in (step S305 / No), the process proceeds to step S314. Then, since it is within the valid time of authentication for the job operation, it is determined that the operating user is given access right to some job operation (step S314 / Yes). When it is determined whether or not the access right to the job operation given to the operation user has the access right to the error avoidance target job (step S315), and it is determined that the access right to the error avoidance target job has. (Step S315 / Yes) determines whether or not the valid time of authentication for the preset job operation has elapsed (step S316), and executes the error avoidance process (step S313).
(Third user authentication operation when an error occurs in FIG. 10) Next, a third user authentication operation when an error occurs in FIG. 10 will be described. In the third user authentication operation when an error occurs, the image forming apparatus 100 is currently logged in (step S305 / Yes), but the currently logged-in operating user is assigned to the error avoidance target job. It is assumed that the access right is not held (step S306 / No). In this case, the processing operation in the flowchart suggested in FIG. 10 shifts to "Job authenticated?" In step S314 when an error occurs, and the operating user is given access right to some job operation. It will be determined whether or not it is (step S314). At this stage, since the operating user has not yet been granted access rights to any job operation (step S314 / No), the process proceeds to step S317, the authentication information input screen is displayed on the operation display unit 103, and the job is performed. An authentication inquiry will be made (step S317).
Next, when the user ID and password are entered from the authentication information input screen, and in step S319, it is determined that the authentication is OK, and it is determined that the operating user can acquire the access right to the error avoidance target job (step S319 / Yes). , The timekeeping of the effective time is started by the timer 110 (step S320), and the screen for selecting the error avoidance selection process is displayed on the operation display unit 103 (step S307). Then, in step S313, the error avoidance process is executed, and the first error avoidance process is completed (step S313). Then, it is determined whether or not there is another error (step S321), and if it is determined that there is another error (step S321 / Yes), the process proceeds to step S301, and the error is displayed again on the operation display unit 103. Will be done (step S301). Then, the process proceeds to step S305, and it is determined whether or not the image forming apparatus 100 is currently logged in (step S305).
In this case, since the image forming apparatus 100 is in the logged-in state (step S305 / Yes), the process proceeds to step S306, and whether the currently logged-in operating user has the access right to the error avoidance target job. It will be determined whether or not (step S306). In this determination, it is determined that the operating user who is currently logged in does not have the access right to the error avoidance target job (step S306 / No). It is determined whether or not the access right to some job operation is granted (step S314). At this time, during the first error avoidance process, in step S319, it is determined that the operating user has acquired the access right to the error avoidance target job. Therefore, in step S314, some job is given to the operating user. It will be determined that the access right to the operation has been granted (step S314 / Yes). Then, it is determined whether or not the access right to the job operation given to the operation user has the access right to the error avoidance target job (step S315), and it is determined that the access right to the error avoidance target job has. If so (step S315 / Yes), it is determined whether the time since the timer 110 started timing the valid time has passed the valid time of authentication for the preset job operation (step S315 / Yes). Step S316). Then, when it is determined that the valid time of authentication for the job operation has not passed (step S316 / Yes), a screen for selecting the error avoidance selection process is displayed on the operation display unit 103 (step). S307). Then, in step S313, the error avoidance process is executed, and the second error avoidance process is performed (step S313).
Then, in step S321, there are no other errors (step S321 / No), Suppose that after printing is resumed and the printing process elapses, an error occurs again within the valid time of authentication for the job operation. At this time, the image forming apparatus 100 is in the logged-in state (step S305 / Yes), but the operating user who is currently logged in does not have the access right to the error avoidance target job (step S306 / Yes). No), it will move to step S314. Then, since it is within the valid time of authentication for the job operation, it is determined that the operation user is given the access right to some job operation (step S314 / Yes), and the operation user is given the access right. When it is determined whether or not the access right to the existing job operation has the access right to the error avoidance target job (step S315) and the access right to the error avoidance target job is determined (step S315 / Yes), in advance. It is determined whether or not the valid time of authentication for the set job operation has elapsed (step S316), and the error avoidance process is executed (step S313).
(User Authentication Operation When Job Reset Occurs) Next, the processing operation when a job reset occurs, which is instructed to be executed by the host computer 120, will be described with reference to FIG. Note that FIG. 13 is a flowchart suggesting a processing operation when a job reset occurs in the image forming apparatus 100 of the first embodiment.
FIG. 14 is a diagram suggesting a screen display during print processing standby / print processing execution displayed on the operation display unit 103 in the first embodiment. As suggested in FIG. 14, on the operation display unit 103, as an example, a "print condition" key for setting various print conditions such as sort and staple, and a "feed" key for selecting a tray of printing paper. The "Paper Tray" key, the "Print Copies" key for setting the number of copies, the "Online" key that allows printing of print data received via the network 140, and the "Offline" key that prohibits the reception of print data. Key, "Forced output" key for forcibly printing and ejecting the image as it is stored in the image buffer of the image forming apparatus 100, and canceling the currently executing job to avoid an error. The "Job Reset" key is provided. Further, when the print process is on standby or the print process is executed, the "document print" key, the "error history display" key, the "job spool list" key, and the like are provided on the operation display unit 103.
The "document print" key is a key selected when executing a print process on the stored print data. The "error history display" key is a key for displaying the history of previously generated errors on the operation display unit 103. The "job spool list" key is a key for displaying a list of jobs currently spooled in the image forming apparatus 100 on the operation display unit 103.
First, when the "job reset" key on the screen suggested in FIG. 14 displayed on the operation display unit 103 is selected by the operation user, the CPU 101 makes a print stop request to the printer unit 104, and the image forming apparatus. The printing process is performed on the printing paper already being conveyed within 100, and the printing process is temporarily stopped when the paper ejection is completed (including the ejection to the stacker of the post-processing machine) (step S401). ). If all the print data is printed and the paper is ejected by the time printing is stopped, the job reset process is not performed.
When the print process is stopped due to the print stop request to the printer unit 104, the CPU 101 displays a job reset selection screen as suggested in FIG. 15 on the operation display unit 103. On the job reset selection screen, as suggested in FIG. 15, a user who gives a print instruction of a printing job stopped by pressing the "job reset" key suggested in FIG. 14 from the host computer 120. "User name", "User ID", and "Document name" of are displayed. In addition, on the job reset selection screen, the "Delete print job" key and A "delete all jobs" key and a "continue printing" key are provided.
The "Erase print job" key is a key for erasing a job whose printing is currently suspended. The "Delete all jobs" key is a key for erasing all jobs currently spooled in the data storage unit 107. The "continue printing" key is a key for restarting the printing process of a job whose printing has been temporarily stopped.
The operation user selects by pressing any of the "Delete print job" key, "Erase all jobs" key, and "Continue printing" key on the screen suggested in FIG. 15 displayed on the operation display unit 103. Will be done (step S402).
Here, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the key on the operation display unit 103 selected by the operation user is the "print continuation" key (step S403). When the CPU 101 determines that the "continue printing" key is selected (step S403 / Yes), the CPU 101 causes the printer unit 104 to execute the printing process of the temporarily stopped job and restart the printing operation.
In CPU101, the key selected by the operating user is the "Print Job Erase" key. Alternatively, if it is determined that the "Erase All Jobs" key is used (step S403 / No), the CPU 101 will determine whether or not the image forming apparatus 100 is currently logged in (step S404). ).
If the CPU 101 determines that the image forming apparatus 100 is currently logged in (step S404 / Yes), the operating user currently logged in to the image forming apparatus 100 has the access right to the job to be reset. Will be determined (step S405).
If the CPU 101 determines that the operating user currently logged in to the image forming apparatus 100 has the access right to the job to be reset (step S405 / Yes), the CPU 101 suggests in FIG. Such a job reset confirmation screen will be displayed on the operation display unit 103. As suggested in FIG. 16, on the job reset confirmation screen, for example, the user ID and the document name of the execution instruction user of the job to be reset are displayed.
Here, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the "do not erase" key or the "erase" key suggested in FIG. 16 is pressed, and the "erase" key is pressed to execute the reset process of the target job. It will be determined whether or not the instruction has been entered (step S406).
When the CPU101 determines that the "erase" key suggested in FIG. 16 is pressed and an instruction to execute the reset process of the target job is input (step S406 / Yes), the CPU101 determines in step S404 that the operation is performed. It is determined that the image forming apparatus 100 is currently logged in (step S404 / Yes), and in step S405, the currently logged-in operating user has the access right to the job to be reset. Except when it is determined (step S405 / Yes), the CPU 101 sets the time after the timer 110 starts timing the effective time in step S414 for the job operation preset in the data storage unit 107. It will be determined whether or not the valid time of authentication has passed (step S414).
Then, when the CPU 101 determines that the time since the timer 110 starts counting the valid time does not elapse the valid time for authentication for the job operation preset in the data storage unit 107 (step S414). / No), CPU101 executes a job reset, deletes the corresponding print data and the like in the data storage unit 107 and the memory 108, and cancels the target job that has received the job reset execution instruction. After that, the CPU 101 restarts the printing operation in the image forming apparatus 100. If the CPU 101 determines that the time since the timer 110 starts timing the valid time has passed the valid time for authentication for the job operation preset in the data storage unit 107 (step S414). / Yes), CPU101 erases the user ID and password temporarily stored in memory 108, and after revoking the access right to the job to be reset given to the operating user, FIG. 11 The authentication information input screen suggested in is displayed on the operation display unit 103, and the operation user is inquired about the job authentication (step S415). Then, in step S417, when the CPU 101 determines that the authentication information input from the authentication information input screen suggested in FIG. 11 is authentication OK, and determines that the operating user can acquire the access right to the job to be reset. (Step S417 / Yes), the timer 110 starts counting the valid time (step S312), the CPU 101 executes a job reset, and deletes the corresponding print data etc. in the data storage unit 107 and the memory 108. , The target job that received the job reset execution instruction will be canceled.
Further, in step S406, when it is determined that the "do not erase" key suggested in FIG. 16 is pressed and an instruction not to execute the reset process of the target job is input (step S406 / No), the CPU101 is the CPU101. Returns to the process of step S402, displays the job reset selection screen suggested in FIG. 15 on the operation display unit 103, and performs the job reset selection process (step S402).
The screen suggested in FIG. 16 is a screen displayed on the operation display unit 103 when the "Delete job during printing" key on the job reset selection screen suggested in FIG. 15 is pressed. When the "Clear All Jobs" key on the job reset selection screen suggested in is pressed, The screen in which the "printing job below" displayed on the screen suggested in FIG. 16 is changed to "all jobs below" or the like is displayed. Then, when the "erase" key on the screen is pressed by the operating user, the CPU 101 determines that an instruction to execute the job reset process has been input. Also, when the "Do not erase" key on the screen is pressed, The CPU 101 determines that an instruction not to execute the job reset process has been input.
Each process in steps S407 to S413 is the same as each process in steps S314 to S320 suggested in FIG. And CPU101 After the timer 110 is started to measure the effective time in step S413, the process proceeds to step S406. Further, in step S409, when the CPU 101 determines that the time after the operation user acquires the access right of the target job is within the valid time of authentication for the job operation preset in the data storage unit 107 ((). Step S409 / No), the process of step S406 will be started. Therefore, before issuing the job reset instruction suggested in FIG. 13, one-shot authentication is performed during the error avoidance process suggested in FIG. 10, the error avoidance process is executed, printing is restarted, and then the data storage unit is used. When a job reset instruction is given as suggested in FIG. 13 within the valid time of authentication for the job operation preset in 107, the job reset process is performed without inquiring the authentication for the job operation. It will be.
(Summary of the first embodiment) As described above, according to the present embodiment, the image forming apparatus 100 is input from the authentication information added to the job instructed to be executed by the host computer 120 and the operation display unit 103 included in the image forming apparatus 100. The authentication information is collated with each other to perform the authentication process, and if the authentication result is successful, the operation user who operates the image forming apparatus 100 is given the access right to the above job. Therefore, when performing a job operation such as error avoidance processing or job reset processing for a job, the image forming apparatus 100 executes authentication for the job operation using the authentication information set for each job. It is possible to maintain security for jobs.
Further, according to the present embodiment, when the operating user who directly operates the image forming apparatus 100 does not have the access right to the job to be operated by the job, the CPU 101 uses the authentication information input by the operating user. , The information in the data storage unit 107 is collated, and the authentication (one-shot authentication) for performing the operation for the job is performed independently of the authentication at the time of login. Then, as a result of the one-shot authentication, when the access right to the job is acquired and the operation to the job becomes possible, the job operation is performed using the operation display unit 103. As a result, even if there is a logged-in user in the image forming apparatus 100, once Without logging out, the operating user logged in to the image forming apparatus 100 can perform operations on jobs for which access rights are not granted on the same operation unit (operation display unit 103).
Further, according to the present embodiment, the image forming apparatus 100 can set whether or not to allow printing of a job that does not include the job authentication information. As a result, even if the job is from a computer in which the authentication information cannot be set in the transmission job due to specifications or the like, the print process can be executed by the image forming apparatus 100. In this embodiment, the above job is treated as a guest job and has a "public attribute". For such a job, the user information to be used is registered in advance in the data storage unit 107, and the user information registered in the data storage unit 107 is added to the job to which the authentication information is not added. It can also be constructed to run as a job for that user.
Further, according to the present embodiment, even if the operating user is not logged in to the image forming apparatus 100, the image forming apparatus 100 executes an authentication process for the operating user to acquire the access right for the job operation. Will be done. Therefore, when the operation user wishes to execute only the job operation, it is possible to save the trouble of performing unnecessary login operation and logout operation, and the operation can be simplified.
Further, according to the present embodiment, when the "job reset" key on the operation display unit 103 is selected and the job reset is instructed, the image forming apparatus 100 temporarily stops the running job and performs the authentication process. Do. Then, the image forming apparatus 100 executes the job reset process only when the authentication is successful. As a result, it is possible to suppress the execution of unnecessary printing processing while the authentication processing is being executed.
Further, according to the present embodiment, the image forming apparatus 100 sets a valid time for the access right for the job operation, and the access right is valid only within that period. As a result, for example, if the operating user leaves the image forming apparatus 100 for some reason after acquiring the access right, it is possible to prevent a third party from illegally using the image forming apparatus 100, and the job operation can be performed. It is possible to improve the security against.
In the above embodiment, the image forming apparatus 100 automatically invalidates the access right after the valid time elapses, but after the operating user acquires the access right, a third party illegally uses the image forming apparatus 100. When the image forming apparatus 100 is not in the environment in which it is used, it is possible to construct the image forming apparatus 100 so as not to execute the timing processing and the lapse determination processing of the effective time of this embodiment. As a result, the operating user can save the trouble of inputting the authentication information many times even when performing the job operation for the same job, and can realize the simplification of the operation.
Further, in the above embodiment, after the operation user acquires the access right, information indicating that the job operation for the same job is executed again is input from the operation display unit 103 within the preset valid time. In this case, the CPU 101 can be constructed so as to continue to effectively set the access right to the job without requesting the operation user to input the authentication information again. This allows when authentication for job operations is on a job-by-job basis. Even when so-called small jobs such as one page or multiple pages are printed continuously, the operation user is authenticated because the operation user is not required to input the authentication information for the job operation for each job. It is possible to save the trouble of inputting information many times, and it is possible to realize simplification of operation.
Also, if it is within the preset valid time after the operating user has acquired the access right, Even if a job without access right is sandwiched, when the information to execute the job operation is input from the operation display unit 103, the operation user acquires it without requesting the operation user to input the authentication information again. It is also possible to build so that the access right to the created job continues to be valid as it is. As a result, even if the jobs to which the access right is not continuous, the operation user is not required to input the authentication information again, so that the operation user can save the trouble of inputting the authentication information many times. Therefore, it is possible to realize simplification of operation.
Further, even after the valid time has elapsed, if the information indicating that the job operation for the same job is to be executed is input from the operation display unit 103 again, the CPU 101 re-enters the authentication information to the operating user. It is also possible to build the access right to the job so that it will continue to be valid without requesting it. As a result, even if an error of multiple factors occurs in the same job and multiple job operations are required, the operating user can save the trouble of repeatedly inputting the authentication information, which simplifies the operation. Can be realized.
Further, according to this embodiment, the operating user authentication information (user ID and password) input at the time of login and the operating user authentication information input when acquiring the access right for the job operation are input. In common, the image forming apparatus 100 can be constructed so as to execute an authentication process for granting the operation user the access right for job operation by using the authentication information of the operation user input at the time of login. Is. As a result, the image forming apparatus 100 can reduce the amount of management information for job operations. In addition, the logged-in operation user does not need to re-enter the authentication information for acquiring the access right for the job operation, which simplifies the operation for acquiring the access right for the job operation. It will be possible.
Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment, when a job reset request is input from the operation display unit 103, first, the image forming apparatus 100 temporarily stops the printing operation, and whether or not the operating user has the access right. Performs judgment processing and the like. Then, when it is determined that the operating user is granted the access right, the image forming apparatus 100 permits the operating user to reset the job, and then restarts the printing operation.
In the second embodiment, when a job reset request is input by the operation display unit 103, a user who is currently logged in to the image forming apparatus 100 continues the printing operation currently being executed in the image forming apparatus 100. It will be determined whether or not it exists. less than, The processing operation in the second embodiment will be described. Unless otherwise specified, the configuration and operation in the second embodiment will be described as being the same as those in the first embodiment.
(User Authentication Operation When Job Reset Occurs) First, the processing operation when a job reset occurs, which is instructed to be executed by the host computer 120, will be described with reference to FIG. Note that FIG. 17 is a flowchart suggesting a processing operation when a job reset occurs in the image forming apparatus 100 of the second embodiment.
First, when a job reset request is input by the operation display unit 103, the CPU 101 is set to While continuing the printing operation currently being executed by the image forming apparatus 100, it is determined whether or not the image forming apparatus 100 is currently logged in (step S501).
If the CPU 101 determines that the image forming apparatus 100 is currently logged in (step S501 / Yes), the CPU 101 uses the authentication information of the currently logged-in operating user to access the job to be reset. It will be determined whether or not the user has the right (step S502). The following processing is executed to determine whether or not the user has the access right to the job to be reset.
The authentication information of the operating user who is currently logged in, the authentication information of the job to be reset, and If it is determined that they are the same, it is determined that the authentication information of the currently logged-in operating user has the access right to the job to be reset, and the authentication of the currently logged-in operating user is performed. If it is determined that the information and the authentication information of the job to be reset are not the same, it is determined that the authentication information of the operating user who is currently logged in does not have the access right to the job to be reset. It will be. If it is recognized that the public attribute is set for the job to be reset, it is determined that all the operating users have the access right to the job to be reset.
If the CPU 101 determines in step S502 above that the currently logged-in operating user has access to the job to be reset (step S502 / Yes), the CPU 101 is in the image forming apparatus 100. The printing process will be temporarily stopped. As a result, the image forming apparatus 100 stops the printing job only after the job reset request is started (step S510).
When the printing process in the image forming apparatus 100 is stopped, the CPU 101 displays the job reset selection screen as suggested in FIG. 15 on the operation display unit 103. And When an instruction by the operating user (instruction of erasing a print job, erasing all jobs, or continuing printing) is input from the job reset selection screen suggested in FIG. 15 (step S511), the CPU 101 is displayed on the operation display unit 103. It is determined whether or not the instruction input from is an execution instruction for job reset (print job deletion or all job deletion) (step S512). If the CPU 101 determines that the instruction input from the operation display unit 103 is a job reset execution instruction (print job erase or all job erase) (step S512 / Yes), the CPU 101 suggests in FIG. The job reset confirmation screen will be displayed on the operation display unit 103.
When the CPU101 determines that the "erase" key suggested in FIG. 16 is pressed and an instruction to execute the reset process of the target job is input (step S512 / Yes), the CPU101 determines that the operation is performed in step S501. It is determined that the image forming apparatus 100 is currently logged in (step S501 / Yes), and in step S502, the currently logged-in operating user has the access right to the job to be reset. Except when it is determined (step S502 / Yes), the CPU 101 sets the time after the timer 110 starts timing the effective time in step S513 for the job operation preset in the data storage unit 107. It will be determined whether or not the valid time of authentication has passed (step S513).
Then, when the CPU 101 determines that the time since the timer 110 starts counting the valid time does not elapse the valid time for authentication for the job operation preset in the data storage unit 107 (step S513). / No), CPU101 executes a job reset, deletes the corresponding print data and the like in the data storage unit 107 and the memory 108, and cancels the target job that has received the job reset execution instruction. Then, when another job is spooled in the image forming apparatus 100, the job is executed and the printing operation is restarted. If the CPU 101 determines that the time since the timer 110 starts timing the valid time has passed the valid time for authentication for the job operation preset in the data storage unit 107 (step S513). / Yes), CPU101 erases the user ID and password temporarily stored in memory 108, and after revoking the access right to the job to be reset given to the operating user, FIG. 11 The authentication information input screen suggested in is displayed on the operation display unit 103, and the operation user is inquired about the job authentication (step S514). Then, in step S516, when the CPU 101 determines that the authentication information input from the authentication information input screen suggested in FIG. 11 is authentication OK, and determines that the operating user can acquire the access right to the job to be reset. (Step S516 / Yes), the timer 110 starts counting the valid time (step S517), the CPU 101 executes a job reset, and deletes the corresponding print data, etc. in the data storage unit 107 and the memory 108. , The target job that received the job reset execution instruction will be canceled. Then, when another job is spooled in the image forming apparatus 100, the job is executed and the printing process is restarted.
Further, in step S512, when the CPU 101 determines that the "do not erase" key suggested in FIG. 16 is pressed and an instruction not to execute the reset process of the target job is input (step S512 / No), or If an instruction to cancel the user authentication process is given in step S515 (step S515 / Yes), the CPU 101 restarts the temporarily stopped printing process.
The processing of steps S501 to S509 in this embodiment suggested in FIG. 17 is the same as the processing of steps S404, S405, and S407 to S413 in the first embodiment suggested in FIG.
As described above, when the reset job is requested, the image forming apparatus 100 in the present embodiment first executes a determination process of whether or not the user is logged in, a determination process of acquiring the access right, and the like, and permits the operating user to reset the job. The printing operation will be stopped for the first time. As a result, when performing the authentication process for job operation, the running job is not stopped, so that the printing efficiency in the image forming apparatus 100 is not lowered even if the authentication process takes time. It becomes possible to effectively use the image forming apparatus 100.
Next, a third embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment, as a result of the authentication process, after issuing the access right to the operating user and before executing the error avoidance process or the job reset process, the CPU 101 determines whether or not it is within the valid time. Was.
In the third embodiment, after issuing the access right, the error avoidance process or the job reset process is executed as it is without executing the determination of whether or not it is within the valid time. The processing operation in the third embodiment will be described below. Unless otherwise specified, the configuration and operation in the third embodiment will be described as being the same as those in the first embodiment or the second embodiment.
(User authentication operation when an error occurs) First, the authentication operation when an error occurs in the image forming apparatus 100 of the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Note that FIG. 18 is a flowchart suggesting an authentication operation when an error occurs in the image forming apparatus 100 of the third embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 18, the processing operation when an error occurs in the third embodiment is such that when the time counting of the valid time is started after the authentication is successful (step S715), the CPU 101 is currently within the valid time after the access right is issued. The error avoidance process (selection / execution) is performed as it is without executing the determination process of whether or not the error is (step S710). As a result, unlike the first embodiment, the authentication information is not input again, and the operation can be simplified. The other processing is the same as that of the first embodiment.
(User Authentication Operation When Job Reset Occurs) Next, the authentication operation when a job reset occurs in the image forming apparatus 100 of the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Note that FIG. 19 is a flowchart suggesting an authentication operation when a job reset occurs in the image forming apparatus 100 of the third embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 19, the processing operation when the job reset occurs in the third embodiment is that when the time counting of the valid time is started after the authentication is successful (step S813), the CPU 101 is currently in the valid time after the access right is issued. The job reset is executed as it is without executing the determination process of whether or not it is within (step S814). As a result, unlike the first embodiment, the authentication information is not input again, and the operation can be simplified. The other processing is the same as that of the first embodiment.
As described above, according to the present embodiment, the CPU 101 does not execute the determination of whether or not it is within the valid time until the error avoidance process or the job reset process is completed after the access right is issued. As a result, even if the valid time elapses during the execution of the error avoidance process or the job reset process, the operating user does not have to re-enter the authentication information, and the operation can be simplified. Is possible.
In the above embodiment, in the operation of the first embodiment, the determination process of whether or not it is within the valid time is not executed after the access right is granted and before the job operation is completed. Similarly, in the operation of the embodiment, it is also possible not to execute the determination process of whether or not it is within the valid time after the access right is granted and before the job operation is completed.
Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment, after issuing the access right to the operating user as a result of authentication, and before executing the error avoidance process or the job reset process, the CPU 101 determines whether or not it is within the valid time. ..
In the fourth embodiment, after issuing the access right, the error avoidance process or the job reset process is executed as it is without executing the determination of whether or not it is within the valid time. The processing operation in the fourth embodiment will be described below. Unless otherwise specified, the configuration and operation in the fourth embodiment will be described as being the same as those in the first embodiment or the second embodiment.
(User Authentication Operation When An Error Occurs) First, an authentication operation when an error occurs in the image forming apparatus 100 of the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Note that FIG. 20 is a flowchart suggesting an authentication operation when an error occurs in the image forming apparatus 100 of the fourth embodiment.
As for the processing operation when an error occurs in the fourth embodiment, as suggested in FIG. 20, the CPU 101 performs error avoidance processing (selection / execution) after authentication is obtained (step S916 / Yes). Becomes (step S910). Then, after executing the error avoidance process, the CPU 101 once resets the time measured to zero (step S911), and starts timing the effective time again (step S912). In addition, steps S901 to S906 are the same processes as steps S301 to S306, respectively, and steps S907 to S909 and S914 to 916 are the same processes as steps S314 to S319, respectively, and thus the description thereof will be omitted.
(User authentication operation when job reset occurs) Next, with reference to FIG. 21, the authentication operation when a job reset occurs in the image forming apparatus 100 of the fourth embodiment will be described. Note that FIG. 21 is a flowchart suggesting an authentication operation when a job reset occurs in the image forming apparatus 100 of the fourth embodiment.
As suggested in FIG. 21, the processing operation when the job reset occurs in the third embodiment is that when the CPU 101 recognizes the job reset execution instruction after the authentication is obtained (step S1015 / Yes) (step S1006). / Yes), CPU101 once resets the timed time to zero (step S1007), starts timekeeping of the valid time again (step S1008), and executes a job reset (step S1009). In addition, steps S1001 to S1006 are the same processes as steps S401 to S406, respectively, and steps S1010 to S1015 are the same processes as steps S407 to S412, respectively, and thus the description thereof will be omitted.
As described above, according to the present embodiment, the CPU 101 resets the time counting time once after executing the job operation, and restarts the time counting of the effective time. As a result, when multiple job operations are required, the job operation takes time, and even after the valid time has passed, the operating user can save the trouble of re-entering the authentication information. The operation will be simplified.
In this embodiment, in the operation of the first embodiment, it is decided not to execute the determination of whether or not it is within the valid time after the access right is granted and before the job operation is completed, but the second or third embodiment is performed. Similarly, in the operation of the above embodiment, it is also possible not to execute the determination of whether or not it is within the valid time after the access right is granted and before the job operation is completed.
Next, a fifth embodiment will be described. In the fifth embodiment, when the unlogged-in operation user performs job authentication, he / she also logs in to the image forming apparatus 100. The processing operation in the fifth embodiment will be described below.
(User Authentication Operation When An Error Occurs) First, an authentication operation when an error occurs in the image forming apparatus 100 of the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Note that FIG. 22 is a flowchart suggesting an authentication operation when an error occurs in the image forming apparatus 100 of the fifth embodiment.
As suggested in FIG. 22, the processing operation when an error occurs in the fifth embodiment is that the CPU 101 authenticates the job with the entered user ID and password (step S1114), and if the authentication is successful (step S1114). S1114 / Yes), it is determined in the image forming apparatus 100 whether or not the logged-in user already exists (step S1115).
If the CPU 101 determines that the logged-in user already exists in the image forming apparatus 100 (step S1115 / Yes), the CPU 101 starts timing the effective time (step S1117). If the CPU 101 determines that the logged-in user does not yet exist in the image forming apparatus 100 (step S1115 / No), the CPU 101 inputs the user ID and password for which the user authentication is determined to be successful in the step S1114. The login process will be performed using this (step S1116). Then, when the CPU 101 determines that the user ID and password determined to have succeeded in the job authentication are stored in association with the data storage unit 107, the CPU 101 logs in the operating user in the image forming apparatus 100. It will be. Since the other processing operations are the same as those in the first embodiment, the description thereof will be omitted.
(User Authentication Operation When Job Reset Occurs) Next, the authentication operation when a job reset occurs in the image forming apparatus 100 of the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 23. Note that FIG. 23 is a flowchart suggesting an authentication operation when a job reset occurs in the image forming apparatus 100 of the fifth embodiment.
As suggested in FIG. 23, the processing operation when the job reset occurs in the fifth embodiment is that the CPU 101 authenticates the job with the entered user ID and password (step S1212), and if the authentication is successful (step S1212). Step S1212 / Yes), the image forming apparatus 100 determines whether or not the logged-in user already exists (step S1213).
If the CPU 101 determines that the logged-in user already exists in the image forming apparatus 100 (step S1213 / Yes), the CPU 101 starts timing the effective time (step S1215). If the CPU 101 determines that the logged-in user does not yet exist in the image forming apparatus 100 (step S1213 / No), the CPU 101 inputs the user ID and password for which the user authentication is determined to be successful in the step S1212. The login process will be performed using this (step S1214). Then, when the CPU 101 determines that the user ID and password determined to have succeeded in job authentication are stored in association with the data storage unit 107, the CPU 101 logs in the operating user in the image forming apparatus 100. It will be. Since the other processing operations are the same as those in the first embodiment, the description thereof will be omitted.
As described above, according to the present embodiment, when it is determined that the job authentication is successful based on the authentication information input from the operation display unit 103, the image forming apparatus 100 automatically performs the login process for the user whose job authentication is successful. Will be executed. As a result, for example, even when the image forming apparatus 100 continuously processes jobs of the same user, the operating user can save the trouble of logging in and inputting the authentication information for job authentication. It is possible to realize simplification of operation.
In this embodiment, in the operation of the first embodiment, the login process is executed after the access right is granted, but similarly, in the operations of the second to fifth embodiments, after the access right is granted. , It is also possible to execute the login process.
Next, a sixth embodiment will be described. FIG. 24 is a block diagram suggesting the configuration of the image forming system according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. As suggested in FIG. 24, the image forming system in this embodiment has a configuration in which an external authentication device 140 is further provided in addition to the configurations of the first to fifth embodiments.
The external authentication device 140 is an information processing device such as a PC connected to the network 130. The external authentication device 140 stores the user management information stored in the data storage unit 107 included in the image forming device 100 of the above embodiment.
First, at the time of job authentication, when the user ID and password of the operation user are input from the operation display unit 103, the I / F unit 106 performs the input user ID and password of the operation user and the operation user to perform the job operation. The requested user ID of the job execution instruction user is sent to the external authentication device 140.
When the external authentication device 140 receives the user ID and password of the operating user and the user ID of the execution instruction user, the user ID and password of the operating user are executed in the user management information stored in the image forming device 100. Determines whether or not it is associated with the user ID of the instructing user. Here, when it is determined that the user management information is associated with the user management information, the external authentication device 140 transmits information indicating the success of the authentication to the image forming device 100. Further, when it is determined that the user management information is not associated, the external authentication device 140 transmits information indicating the authentication failure to the image forming device 100.
When the image forming apparatus 100 receives the information indicating the authentication result from the external authentication apparatus 140, the image forming apparatus 100 determines whether or not the authentication result is successful. If the content of the authentication information is "authentication successful", the image forming apparatus 100 starts timing the effective time. On the other hand, in the case of "authentication failure", the image forming apparatus 100 again requests the operation user to input the user ID and password. Since the other processes are the same as those in the first to fifth embodiments, the description thereof will be omitted.
As described above, in the first to fifth embodiments, the image forming apparatus 100 stores the user management information and performs job authentication, but in this embodiment, the external authentication apparatus 140 stores the user management information. , Job authentication is performed, and the authentication result is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 100. As a result, the image forming apparatus 100 does not need to store the information for authentication, so that the storage area of the image forming apparatus can be reduced.
Next, an example of the younger brother 7 will be described. In this example, the device administrator can make settings in advance that do not require authentication for the job operation being executed. This can prevent the device from becoming unusable while the person who has the right to operate the target job is absent when an error occurs in the running job and the device is stopped. it can. Here, the operation for a job refers to an operation related only to the job, such as job reset, function cancellation for error cancellation, forced printing, number of copies change, staple specification, punch specification, and the like. In addition, the job without access right includes the job of another person.
In this example, as in the above embodiment, when the print data is received via the I / F unit 106, the image data is analyzed by the image forming unit 109 and the image data is formed. At that time, the authentication information attached to the image data is taken out, and the user authentication is performed by the user management information (FIGS. 3 and 8) stored in the data storage unit 107 or the external authentication device 140 connected by LAN. This is done, and printing is done with respect to the print information of the user who has the right to use it. The structure of the print information is as shown in FIG. 4 and described above.
Next, the processing of the apparatus according to this example will be described. 28 to 31 are flowcharts showing processing when an error occurs in this embodiment. If an error occurs, the error is displayed on the screen (step S1301). 26 and 27 are examples of error display. FIG. 26 shows the case where the designated paper trays have different paper types, and FIG. 27 shows the case where there are no staples.
If the job reset button is pressed while an error has occurred in this state, it is determined in step S1302 and the process proceeds to step S1402 in FIG. The process at the time of job reset will be described later with reference to FIGS. 29 and 31.
An error that can eliminate the cause of the error even if the person does not have access rights to the job such as jam (an error with a workaround) is determined in step S1303 and waits for the workaround operation to be performed. When the avoidance operation is performed, printing is restarted from step S1304.
When the error workaround by operation is selected (S1303 / YES), what was selected as the error workaround and the device settings saved in the data storage unit shown in Fig. 3 are shown in Fig. 25. Determine the check level by comparing the authentication check level related to job operations.
Regarding the authentication check level information shown in FIG. 25, the operation display unit 103 shown in FIG. 2 is used, and the device administrator sets it in advance. Here, an example in which the forced printing function is selected will be described. The same applies to other error avoidance processes.
If the check level for forced printing is 3 (no check), it is determined that running job authentication is unnecessary (step S1306 / NO), and error avoidance processing is selected (the tray used for error avoidance processing is selected). This is performed (step S1311), and error avoidance processing is executed (forced printing is executed) (step S1312).
If it is determined that some kind of authentication is required for the running job (levels 1 and 2) (step S1306 / YES), it is checked whether you are logged in (step S1307). If you are logged in (step S1307 / YES), it is checked whether the logged-in user has the operation right of the target job (step S1306).
If the user has the operation right (step S1308 / YES), the process proceeds to step S1311 and error avoidance processing is performed. If the logged-in user does not have the job operation right (step S1308 / NO), the error avoidance process is set so that the error avoidance process can be performed only with the device execution right based on the table shown in FIG. 25 in step S1309. Is checked (step S1309).
At this time, whether or not the logged-in user has the execution right of the printer is also used for the determination, and if the user does not have the execution right, step S1309 proceeds to NO. At this time, the execution range of each user refers to the address book table shown in FIG.
If the operation can be performed only with the execution right of the device (step S1309 / YES), the non-access right holder flag is set (step S1310), and the process proceeds to the error avoidance selection process (step S1311). The error avoidance process is as described above, but if the non-access right holder flag is set, it is determined in step S1313 and the log is recorded. In addition, the log can be recorded and the job owner can be notified that the function has been canceled by the non-access right holder.
If an error has occurred in addition to the cleared error, proceed to the next error display (step S1315 / YES). If the error disappears, printing will resume.
If there is no logged-in user, or if authentication is required to operate the job, the process proceeds to step S1316. In step S1316, it is checked whether the authentication for the operation of the job has already been obtained, and if the authentication has been obtained (step S1316 / YES), whether the authentication information is the right to operate the target job. Checked (step S1317).
If the job operation right is obtained (step S1317 / YES), it is checked whether it is within the valid time (step S1318), and if it is determined that the authentication is valid (step S1318 / YES), Proceed to error avoidance processing selection (step S1326).
If the authentication has not been obtained, the process proceeds to step S1319, and the authentication input screen is displayed. Figure 11 shows an example of the display. If the cancel button is pressed here, or if the cancel button is pressed while the authentication information input is being displayed on the authentication check screen, the process proceeds to the flow of step S1320 / YES, and the process returns to the error display screen again.
If an authentication error occurs, the screen returns to the authentication input screen again (step S1321 / NO). If the authentication is obtained, it is determined whether the user has the operation right of the target job, and if so (step S1322 / YES), the timekeeping of the valid time of the authentication is started (step S1325). ), Proceed to error avoidance processing selection (step S1326). If you do not have the job operation right, it is determined whether the setting is such that the operation can be performed only with the execution right of the device (step S1323).
If the operation can be performed only with the execution right of the device (step S1323 / YES), the non-access right holder flag is set (step S1324), the timekeeping of the authentication valid time is started (step S1325), and the process proceeds to error avoidance processing selection.
If it is determined that the operation cannot be performed only with the execution right of the device (step S1323 / NO), the authentication input screen is displayed again. When the error avoidance process selection is made (step S1326), the valid time for authentication is checked (step S1327), and reacquisition of authentication is requested if necessary (step S1327 to step S1334). This process is the same as the process of steps S1319 to S1325.
Further, the series of processes (step S1335 to step S1338) after the error avoidance execution is the same as the processes of steps S1312 to S1315.
31 and 32 are flowcharts showing a processing example at the time of job reset. If the job reset button is pressed during printing (when the job reset button is pressed on the screen shown in FIG. 14), printing is stopped (step S1401), and the job reset type selection screen is displayed (step S1402). ..
If the job reset is pressed while an error occurs (when the job reset button is pressed on the screen shown in FIG. 26), the process proceeds from step S1302 in FIG. 28 to step S1402 in FIG. 30, and the job reset type selection screen is displayed. Is displayed.
If print continuation is selected on this screen (step S1403 / YES), printing continues or the screen returns to the error display screen (Fig. 28, step S1301). When job reset is selected (step S1403 / NO), it is determined using the information in the table shown in FIG. 25 whether the job authentication being executed in step S1404 is required.
If authentication is not required, the process proceeds to step S1409, and a job reset confirmation screen is displayed. If it is determined that authentication is required (step S1404 / YES), it is checked if you are logged in (step S1405). If you are logged in (step S1405 / YES), it is checked whether the logged-in user has the execution right of the target job, and if you have the execution right (step S1406 / YES), the job reset confirmation. The screen is displayed.
If the logged-in user does not have the execution right of the target job (step S1406 / NO), it is determined whether the execution right of the device is OK (step S1407), and if it is OK (step S1407). / YES) sets the non-access right holder flag (step S1408) and proceeds to the job reset confirmation screen display.
The processing of steps S1404 to S1408 is the same as the processing of steps S1303 to S1310 of FIG. 28. If execution is selected on the job reset confirmation screen (step S1410 / YES), the non-access right holder flag is checked (step S1410), and if the flag is set, the processing is logged (step S1411). ), Job reset is executed.
The processing of notification to the log and the owner is the same as the processing of steps S1313 to S1314 in FIG. 28.
If you are not logged in or the logged-in user does not have the right to execute the job, the process proceeds to step S1412 to check whether the job authentication has been obtained. Subsequent processes (steps S1412 to S1432) are the same as the processes of steps S1316 to S1337 of FIGS. 28 and 29, and thus description thereof will be omitted.
As described above, according to the present embodiment, when a job from a user has stopped the device in an error state, the device can be removed by removing the problematic job even if the user is absent. In addition to being able to reduce downtime, job authentication should be performed only when printing to the device is started, and operability should be emphasized for running job operations, and authentication should not be required. For the user, the operation load can be reduced.
Further, in this example, by not requiring authentication only for job reset, there is an effect of reducing operability at the time of job reset. In addition, since the job can be reset even for an error job, when the job thrown by the user has stopped the device in an error state, the problematic job can be removed even if the user is absent. Therefore, the downtime of the device can be reduced.
Further, in this example, when the job executed by the user has stopped the device in an error state, even if the user is absent, the error avoidance process of the problematic job can be performed. Not only can the downtime of the device be reduced, but also printed matter can be obtained. Further, by limiting the job reset to only when an error occurs, it is possible to prevent the job reset from being pressed by the dark clouds and the job disappearing. Further, it is possible to prevent the job from being operated by a third party who does not have the right to use the device, and it is possible to know who operated the job, which has a deterrent effect against a malicious third party.
In addition, it is possible for the device that has given the print instruction to know that some operation has been performed, and it is possible to perform efficient printing, such as restarting printing if necessary. Further, in this example, the operation for a job with a public attribute can be protected from a user who does not have the right to use the device, and can be limited to the case where the person who has the right to operate the job cannot operate immediately, and is not authorized. It is possible to suppress the operation. Further, in this example, it can be limited to the case where the person who has the operation right of the job cannot operate immediately, and it is possible to suppress the operation by the dark clouds.
It should be noted that the above-described embodiment is an example of a preferred embodiment of the present invention, and the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to this, and various modifications are made without departing from the gist of the present invention. It is possible to carry out the implementation in the above-mentioned form. For example, in each of the above-described embodiments, the image forming apparatus 100 expands the job received from the host computer 120 into the memory 108, and executes processing such as printing without accumulating the job in the image forming apparatus 100 as it is. However, it is also possible to construct the image forming apparatus 100 so as to execute a process such as printing after temporarily accumulating the jobs received from the host computer 120 in the image forming apparatus 100.
Further, the processing operation in each embodiment is executed by a computer program held by the image forming apparatus 100, the host computer 120, or the external authentication apparatus 140, and this program is used as an optical recording medium, a magnetic recording medium, or an optical magnetic recording medium. It is also possible to record on a recording medium or a recording medium such as a semiconductor and load it from the above-mentioned recording medium. It is also possible to load from an external device connected via a predetermined network.
<figref num="1">It is a block diagram which shows the schematic structure of the image formation system of this invention.</figref><figref num="2">It is a figure which shows the structure of the image formation system in 1st Example of this invention.</figref><figref num="3">It is a figure which shows the data structure in the data storage part in the 1st Example of this invention.</figref><figref num="4">It is a figure which shows an example of the job structure which a host computer transmits to an image forming apparatus in 1st Example of this invention.</figref><figref num="5">It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the login processing operation at the time of performing the storage document printing in the 1st Example of this invention.</figref><figref num="6">It is a figure which shows an example of the login screen in the 1st Example of this invention.</figref><figref num="7">It is a figure which shows an example of the user management information stored in the data storage part in the 1st Example of this invention.</figref><figref num="8">It is a figure which shows an example of the job list which the operation user acquired (acquirable) the access right in the 1st Embodiment of this invention.</figref><figref num="9">It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the authentication operation at the time of receiving a print job by the image forming apparatus in the 1st Example of this invention.</figref><figref num="10">It is a flowchart which shows the flow of processing at the time of the error occurrence by the image forming apparatus in the 1st Example of this invention.</figref><figref num="11">It is a figure which shows the authentication information input screen information in 1st and 7th Examples of this invention.</figref><figref num="12">It is a figure which shows the screen which shows the access right granting process execution in 1st Embodiment of this invention.</figref><figref num="13">It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the job reset process by the image forming apparatus in the 1st Example of this invention.</figref><figref num="14">It is a figure which shows the screen display at the time of printing process standby / execution by the operation display part in 1st and 7th Examples of this invention.</figref><figref num="15">It is a figure which shows the selection screen of the job reset in the 1st Example of this invention.</figref><figref num="16">It is a figure which shows the job reset confirmation screen in the 1st Example of this invention.</figref><figref num="17">It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the job reset process by the image forming apparatus in the 2nd Example of this invention.</figref><figref num="18">It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the authentication operation at the time of the error occurrence by the image forming apparatus in the 3rd Example of this invention.</figref><figref num="19">It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the authentication operation at the time of the job reset occurrence by the image forming apparatus in the 3rd Example of this invention.</figref><figref num="20">It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the authentication operation at the time of the error occurrence by the image forming apparatus in the 4th Example of this invention.</figref><figref num="21">It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the authentication operation at the time of the job reset occurrence by the image forming apparatus in the 4th Example of this invention.</figref><figref num="22">It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the authentication operation at the time of the error occurrence by the image forming apparatus in the 5th Example of this invention.</figref><figref num="23">It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the authentication operation at the time of the error occurrence by the image forming apparatus in the 5th Example of this invention.</figref><figref num="24">It is a figure which shows the structure of the image formation system in the 6th Example of this invention.</figref><figref num="25">It is a figure which shows the table which stores the authentication level about the job operation during execution.</figref><figref num="26">It is a figure which shows the display when the paper type of the designated paper feed tray is different in the Example of the younger brother 7 of this invention.</figref><figref num="27">It is a figure which shows the display when there is no staple needle in the Example of the younger brother 7 of this invention.</figref><figref num="28">It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the authentication operation at the time of the error occurrence by the image forming apparatus in the 7th Example of this invention.</figref><figref num="29">It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the authentication operation at the time of the error occurrence by the image forming apparatus in the 7th Example of this invention.</figref><figref num="30">It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the authentication operation at the time of the error occurrence by the image forming apparatus in the 7th Example of this invention.</figref><figref num="31">It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the authentication operation at the time of the error occurrence by the image forming apparatus in the 7th Example of this invention.</figref>
Code description
100 image forming device 101 CPU 102 ROM 103 Display 104 Printer section 105 compression / expansion part 106 I / F section 107 Data storage unit 108 memory 109 Image forming part 120 host computer 130 networks 140 External authentication device 200 Authentication information input method 300 Control means 301 Login information input method 302 Login authentication method 303 Image data receiving means 304 Execution right judgment means 305 Authentication means 400 Execution processing means (image forming means)
31 sheets
Sheet 1 Sheet 2 Sheet 3 Sheet 4 Sheet 5 Sheet 6 Sheet 7 Sheet 8 Sheet 9 Sheet 10 Sheet 11 Sheet 12 Sheet 13 Sheet 14 Sheet 15 Sheet 16 Sheet 17 Sheet 18 Sheet 19 Sheet 20 Sheet 21 Sheet 22 Sheet 23 Sheet 24 Sheet 25 Sheet 26 Sheet 27 Sheet 28 Sheet 29 Sheet 30 Sheet 31
Every citation, both ways
| Document | Relation | Office |
|---|---|---|
| JP2003316672A | Cites | Japan |
| JP2000089924A | Cites | Japan |
| JP2000112854A | Cites | Japan |
| JP2003330686A | Cites | Japan |
| JP2003228262A | Cites | Japan |
| JP2001312396A | Cites | Japan |
6 members in 3 offices
Priority claims7
| Document | Office | Kind | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2004041800 | Japan | A | |
| 2004041800 | Japan | A | |
| 2004041800 | Japan | – | |
| 2004292327 | Japan | A | |
| 2004200441800 | – | – | – |
| JP20040041800 | – | – | – |
| JP20040292327 | – | – | – |
Members6
| Document | Office | Kind | |
|---|---|---|---|
| US2005183141A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| EP1566719A2 | European Patent Office (EPO) | A2 | |
| JP2005262864A | Japan | A | |
| US7657753B2 | United States of America | B2 | |
| JP4530793B2This record | Japan | B2 | |
| EP1566719A3 | European Patent Office (EPO) | A3 |
10 legal events, as the office reported them to INPADOC
Over the term
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Numbers
- Publication
- 4530793
- Publication, DOCDB
- 4530793
- Publication, EPODOC
- JP4530793B
- Application
- 292327
- Application, DOCDB
- 2004292327
- Application, EPODOC
- JP20040292327
Titles2
- Japanese
- 画像形成装置、情報処理装置、情報処理システム、認証方法、認証プログラム及び記録媒体
- English
- Image forming device, information processing device, information processing system, authentication method, authentication program and recording medium
Classification
- CPC, 4
- G06F21/608
- G03G21/04
- G06F21/84
- G03G15/5091
- IPC, 9
- B41J29 38
- H04L9 32
- G06F3 12
- B41J29 00
- G03G15 00
- G03G21 04
- G06F1 00
- G06F21 00
- H04L12 14
