Image forming apparatus and image forming system

An image forming apparatus includes: an image forming unit configured to form images based on image data transmitted from information processing apparatus of users including registered users and unregistered users; a setting unit configured to set permission information for each user based on a log of the image forming and limit information; a first judging unit configured to determine whether user identification information is attached to image data; a second judging unit configured to determine, based on the permission information that is set for an unregistered user, whether to permit execution of image forming of the image data, when the first judging unit determines that the user identification information is not attached to the image data.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority based on 35 USC 119 from prior Japanese Patent Application No. 2009-100151 filed on Apr. 16, 2009, entitled “IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS AND IMAGE FORMING SYSTEM”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates to an image forming apparatus and an image forming system capable of setting a print limitation for each user.

2. Description of Related Art

In recent years, image forming systems that can be shared with plural users have been widely used in office environments. Such mage forming systems include an image forming apparatus such as a printer, MFP (Multi-Function Peripheral) having a printer unit and a scanner unit, or the like and information processing apparatus, such as client PCs connected to the image forming apparatus via a network. In such image forming systems, the image forming apparatus prints based on print data transmitted from the information processing apparatus.

It is known that there is an image forming system that has an accounting server connected to an image forming apparatus via a network and configured to calculate usage fees based on print histories and to charge the usage fees to the users (see, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-249625).

In such an image forming system, the image forming apparatus has stored permit information to permit or prohibit printing corresponding to each user identification information, which identifies each user, such as a password or a personal identification number. Upon executing printing, the information processing apparatus transmits to the image forming apparatus print data to which the user identification information is attached. When receiving the print data, the image forming apparatus obtains the user identification information attached to the print data and compares the user identification information with registered permit information corresponding thereto. When determining that the print data is transmitted from a registered user who is permitted to print, the image forming apparatus executes printing based on the received print data.

The image forming apparatus creates and stores print history information including the user identification information and the number of printed sheets. The server obtains the history information from the image forming apparatus and calculates the usage fees to charge respective users.

When the image forming apparatus determines that it is a prohibited user who is not permitted to print or an unregistered user whose user identification information is not registered, the image forming apparatus does not allow execution of printing based on the received print data and cancels the printing.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In such conventional image forming systems, when an unauthorized user who is not permitted to print with the image forming apparatus or an external user who is not subject to being charged for printing needs to use the image forming apparatus, the administrator has to register the user identification information in the image forming apparatus. Further, it is troublesome that the user has to install a printer driver that adds its user identification information to print data into the information processing apparatus. Further, when the user finishes using the system, the administrator has to delete the registration of the user identification information to prohibit the user from using the image forming apparatus.

Accordingly, it is desired to have an image forming apparatus and an image forming system capable of printing based on print data from an information processing apparatus of an unregistered user without such troublesome requirements.

First Aspect

A first aspect of the invention is an image forming apparatus including: a reception unit operable to receive image data from information processing apparatus operated by users including registered and unregistered users; an image forming unit configured to form images based on the image data; a generation unit operable to generate history information showing the execution history of the image forming unit; a first storage operable to store the history information with user identification information corresponding to the history information; a second storage operable to store limit information of each user for limiting the execution of image forming by the image forming unit; a setting unit operable to set permission information for each user based on the history information and the limit information, the permission information showing whether or not to permit the execution of image forming by the image forming unit; a first judging unit operable to determine whether user identification information is attached to the image data when receiving the image data from the reception unit; a second judging unit operable to determine, based on the permission information that is set for the unregistered user, whether or not to permit execution of image forming of the image data, when the first judging unit determines that the user identification information is not attached to the image data; and a controller operable to instruct the image forming unit to execute image forming of the image data, when the second judging unit determines permission to execute image forming of the image data.

Second Aspect

A second aspect of the invention is an image forming system including: an image forming apparatus and a server. The image forming apparatus includes: a reception unit operable to receive image data from information processing apparatus operated by users including registered and unregistered users; an image forming unit configured to form images based on the image data; and a generation unit operable to generate history information showing execution history of the image forming unit. The server includes: a server acquisition unit capable of communicating with the image forming apparatus and operable to acquire user identification information and the history information from the image forming apparatus; a first storage operable to store the history information with the user identification information corresponding to the history information; a second storage operable to store limit information of each user for limiting the execution of image forming by the image forming apparatus; and a setting unit operable to set in the image forming apparatus permission information of each user based on the history information and the limit information, the permission information showing whether or not to permit the execution of image forming by the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus further includes: a first judging unit operable to determine whether the user identification information is attached to the image data when receiving the image data from the reception unit; a second judging unit operable to determine, based on the permission information that is set for the unregistered user, whether or not to permit execution of image forming of the image data, when the first judging unit determines that the user identification information is not attached to the image data; and a controller operable to instruct the image forming unit to execute image forming of the image data, when the second judging unit determines permission to execute image forming of the image data.

According to the aspects, the limit information for the unregistered user is previously set. When no user identification information is attached to the received image data, it is determined that the image data was transmitted from the information processing apparatus of the unregistered user and execution of image forming is permitted within the range of the limit information set for the unregistered user. Therefore, the external user (the unregistered user) can temporarily and conveniently use the image forming apparatus.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

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

FIG. 2is a view of an outline configuration of a print system of a first embodiment of the invention.

Print system10, which is an image forming system according to the invention, includes printer11, server12communicatably connected to printer11via network13as shown inFIG. 2and used for controlling printer11and charging fees. Server12obtains, at each predetermined period, history information showing print history from printer11. Server12executes an accounting process calculating usage fees based on the history information.

Client PC14is an information processing apparatus that is used by a registered user, who is permitted to print, such as a user who is subject to being charged. Client PC14has installed therein a printer driver for attaching user identification information to print data. The user identification information is used for the accounting process. Client PC14attaches a PIN (Personal Identification Number), which serves as user identification information, to print data including image data and an apparatus name (PC name), which serves as apparatus identification information, and transmits it to printer11. In the embodiment, the PIN attached to the print data is a password comprising one to three digits. Such a PIN is input by each user and thus respective client PCs14store therein the different numbers from each other.

Client PC15is an information processing apparatus used by an unregistered user, who is an external user not permitted to print. That is, client PC15is temporarily connected to print system10. Client PC15is capable of transmitting to printer11print data that includes image data and its PC name with no PIN attached thereto.

Next, functional configurations of printer11and server12will be described in detail with reference toFIG. 1.

FIG. 1is a block diagram of a functional configuration of the print system according to the first embodiment of the invention.

As shown inFIG. 1, printer11, which serves as an image forming apparatus, includes user information storage16, user information management unit17, printer communication unit18, analyzing unit21, first judging unit22, second judging unit23, job management unit24, print controller25, engine unit26, generation unit27, print log storage28, print log management unit29, and printer controller30.

User information storage16is comprised of a hard disk device, for example, and configured to store user information. In the embodiment, user information storage16stores therein permission information for each user indicating whether the user has permission to print with printer11.

FIG. 3is an explanatory view of the configuration of the user information storage according to the first embodiment.

User information storage16stores therein permission information as “ON” or “OFF”, for each PIN. Note that permission information “ON” means allowance to print, and “OFF” means a prohibition to print. The PIN is user information for indentifying each registered user. Note that the PIN for an unregistered user is set to “0”.

For example, in user information storage16shown inFIG. 3A, permission information “ON” is set and stored corresponding to PIN “1”, for example. This means that permission information for a registered user of PIN “1” is “ON” and the registered user of PIN “1” is thus permitted to print. In user information storage16shown inFIG. 3A, permission information “OFF” is stored corresponding to PIN “2”. This means that permission information for a registered user of PIN “2” is “OFF” and the registered user of PIN “2” is thus not permitted to print. In user information storage16shown inFIG. 3A, permission information “ON” is stored corresponding to PIN “0”. This means that permission information for an unregistered user is “ON” and thus the unregistered user is permitted to print.

In this embodiment, user information storage16only stores permission information corresponding to PINs, however, user information storage16may store various types of user information such as a user name or a PC name (a client PC name) used by the user.

User information management unit17manages user information storage16. User information management unit17obtains and updates data in user information storage16, based on job commands from printer controller30.

As shown inFIG. 1, printer communication unit18includes printer reception unit19and printer transmission unit20. Printer communication unit18receives from and transmits to server12, client PCs14of the registered users, client PC15of the unregistered users, and the like via network13(seeFIG. 2) various types of data.

Printer reception unit19, which serves as a reception unit, receives print data from client PC19and client PC15. Printer reception unit19also receives various types of command data from server12.

Printer transmission unit20transmits to server12various types of data such as print logs, to be described later, or like.

Analyzing unit21analyzes data that are received by printer reception unit19, determines whether the received data are either print data or command data, and informs printer controller30of the determination result.

First judging unit22determines whether or not a PIN is attached to the print data. When a PIN is attached to the print data, first judging unit22obtains the PIN and informs printer controller30of it. When the print data have no PIN attached thereto, first judging unit22selects “0” as its PIN, and informs printer controller30of it.

Second judging unit23determines whether or not to permit printing based on the permission information received from printer controller30. For example, when permission information “ON” is received, second judging unit23determines that printing is permitted. When permission information “OFF” is received, second judging unit23determines that printing is prohibited. Second judging unit23informs printer controller30of the determination result.

Job management unit24converts various types of data, which is received from printer controller30, to job data. Job management unit24creates a print job based on the print data and transmits it to print controller25. Job management unit24also creates a job command based on the command data and transmits it to printer controller30.

Job management unit24also manages the print job. Job management unit24, when receiving the print result from print controller25, creates the job command in order to create a print log, to be described later, and transmits it to generation unit27.

Print controller25creates page data based on the print job received from job management unit24and transmits it to engine unit26. When receiving a notice of completion of the print job from engine unit26, print controller25informs job management unit24of the print result including a printed amount, which is the number of printed sheets or printouts, and the like.

Engine unit26, which serves as an image forming unit, executes printing based on the page data. When the printing is complete, engine unit26informs print controller25of the completion.

Generation unit27creates a print log based on the job command from job management unit24. In the embodiment, the print log created by generation unit27includes the PIN of the user, and a printed amount (the number of printed sheets) serving as history information showing the history of printing by engine unit26.

Print log storage28, which serves as a storage, stores print logs therein.FIG. 4is an explanatory view of the configuration of print log storage28of the first embodiment.

Print log storage28stores therein print logs of print jobs executed by printer11in a predetermined time. Each print log includes a PIN and a printed amount (the number of sheets printed) of each print job. The printed amount serves as history information in the embodiment.

For example, print log storage28shown inFIG. 4stores therein PIN “100” and printed amount “22” which correspond to each other. This means a print job of twenty two sheets was executed based on print data transmitted from client PC14of a registered user of PIN “100”. Print log storage28shown inFIG. 4also stores therein PIN “0” and print amount “8” corresponding to PIN “0”. This means a print job of eight sheets was executed based on print data transmitted from client PC15of an unregistered user of PIN “0”.

Note that although print log storage28stores a pair of the PIN and the printed amount for each print job in this embodiment, the invention is not limited to this. For example, a total printed amount (the number of sheets printed in total) corresponding to each PIN in a predetermined time may be stored in print log storage28in the invention. Also, print log storage28may store therein, for each print job, a print jog name and/or an executed time and date which indentify each print job.

Print log management unit29manages print log storage28and obtains and updates data in print log storage28based on the job command from printer controller30.

Printer controller30controls the components of printer11.

As shown inFIG. 1, server12includes server communication unit31, input unit34, display unit35, limit amount storage36, limit amount management unit37, total printed amount storage38, total printed amount management unit39, setting unit40, and server controller43.

Server transmission unit32transmits command data to printer11. The command data includes, for example, log request command data requesting the print logs, user information acquisition command data requesting the user information, and the like.

Server reception unit33receives various types of data from printer11. Server reception unit33serves as a server acquisition unit and receives the print logs from printer11.

Input unit34comprises a keyboard and a mouse, for example. An operator, who is an administrator, inputs various information to input unit34. In the embodiment, input unit34inputs a limit amount (limit information) that indicates the upper limit of the number of printed sheets for each user.

Display unit35is a display device that shows various screens. In the embodiment, display unit35shows a user information setting screen for setting the user information including the limit amount and the permission information and the like of each user.

Limit amount storage36is a memory unit and stores the limit amount serving as the limit information for limiting the amount of printouts from printer11.

FIG. 5is an explanatory view of the configuration of limit amount storage36of the first embodiment.

Limit amount storage36stores therein the limit amount (the limit information) and the permission information previously set in printer11, for each PIN. Note that the limit amount is the upper limit of sheets that user is allowed to print in a predetermine time.

For example, limit amount storage36shown inFIG. 5Bstores therein limit amount “10” corresponding to PIN “0”. This means that an unregistered user of PIN “0” is allowed to print up to ten sheets. Limit amount storage36shown inFIG. 5Balso stores therein permission information “ON” corresponding to PIN “0”. This means that unregistered users are allowed to print.

Further, limit amount storage36shown inFIG. 5Bstores therein limit amount “-” and permission information “ON”, corresponding to PIN “1”. This means that the registered user of PIN “1” is allowed to print and there is no limit amount set. That is, the registered user of PIN “1” has no limit to print.

Limit amount management unit37manages limit amount storage36and obtains and updates data in limit amount storage36.

Total printed amount storage38is a storage to store the total printed amount, which is the total number of sheets printed in a predetermined time, of each PIN.

FIG. 6is an explanatory view of the configuration of total printed amount storage38of the first embodiment.

Total printed amount storage38stores therein the total printed amount corresponding to each PIN. For example, total printed amount storage38shown inFIG. 6Astores therein total printed amount “2” corresponding to PIN “0” and stores therein total printed amount “0” corresponding to PIN “1”.

Total printed amount management unit39manages total printed amount storage38and obtains and updates data in total printed amount storage38.

Comparison determination unit91compares the total printed amount and the limit amount received from server controller43and determines whether or not the total printed amount is equal or greater than the limit amount. Upon determining that the total printed amount is equal to or greater than the limit amount, comparison determination unit41informs execution unit42of the corresponding PIN.

Execution unit42sets the PIN received from comparison determination unit91to a prohibited PIN and temporary stores it. Execution unit42creates setting command data in order to set the permission information in limit amount storage36and printer11based on the setting instruction received from server controller43. The created setting command data is transmitted to server controller43.

Server controller43controls the components of server12.

Next, the operation of the print system according to the embodiment will be described.

First, the flow of setting a limit amount for limiting the number of sheets to be printed for an unregistered user in print system10will be described with reference toFIG. 7.

FIG. 7is a flowchart showing the limit amount setting operation in the print system of the embodiment according to the invention.

Prior to the limit amount setting operation, printer11is turned on and an initialization process is executed. In the initialization process, user information management unit17of printer11sets a predetermined PIN of “0” to set the permission information for an unregistered user or an unknown user in user information storage16based on input from printer controller30. User information management unit17stores permission information “ON” in user information storage16corresponding to PIN “0”.

With this, PIN “0” is allocated and stored with the corresponding permission information of “ON” in user information storage16of printer11as shown inFIG. 3A.

Note that although permission information “ON” is set as the default setting corresponding to PIN “0” in printer11in the embodiment, permission information “OFF” may be set.

After that, the operator, who is the administrator uses input unit34to display the user information setting screen to set user information such as permission information, limit amount, or the like on display unit35of server12. Based on this, input unit34inputs to server controller43aan acquisition request for acquiring the user information (step S101).

Server controller43creates user information acquisition command data based on the acquisition request. Server transmission unit32then receives the user information acquisition command data from server controller43and transmits it printer11(step S102).

In printer11, when printer reception unit19receives the user information acquisition command data from server12, the user information acquisition command data is transmitted to analyzing unit21. Analyzing unit21analyses the user information acquisition command data and determines that it is command data (step S103). Analyzing unit21then transmits the user information acquisition command data to job management unit24.

Upon receiving the user information acquisition command data, job management unit24creates the user information acquisition command job (step S104). The user information acquisition command job is transmitted to user information management unit17through printer controller30.

Upon receiving the user information acquisition command job, user information management unit17obtains each PIN and permission information corresponding to each PIN, from user information storage16(FIG. 3A) (step S105). Based on input from printer controller30, printer transmission unit20transmits the PINs and the corresponding obtained permission information to server12(step S105).

In server12, when server reception unit33receives the PINs and the permission information from printer11, the PINs and the permission information are transmitted to limit amount management unit37. Limit amount management unit37updates limit amount storage36based on the received PINs and the permission information (step S106).

In limit amount storage36, the permission information of each user obtained from printer11is stored as shown inFIG. 5A. Here, the limit amount for an unregistered user is not set, and thus the stored limit amount for PIN “0” is “-”.

Next, based on input from server controller43, limit amount management unit37obtains the PINs, the limit amounts, and the permission information which are stored in limit amount storage36. Display unit35then displays the user information setting screen including the PINs, the limit amounts, and the permission information (step S107).

Upon setting the limit amount for the unregistered user to “10”, the operator uses input unit34to input a setting request, PIN “0”, and the limit amount “10” (step S108).

Server controller43instructs limit amount management unit37to execute a setting based on the setting request, the PIN, and the limit amount that were input. Limit amount management unit37then updates limit amount storage36based on the setting instruction (step S109). Thus, the limit amount setting process in print system10ends.

As shown inFIG. 5B, limit amount “10” corresponding to PIN “0”, is stored in limit amount storage36.

As described above, the limit amount for an unregistered user is stored in limit amount storage36in server12. Likewise, the limit amounts for registered users can be set on the user information setting screen.

Next, the flow in a case where printer11receives print data will be described with reference toFIGS. 8 and 9.

FIG. 8is a first flowchart (No.1) showing printing operation of printer11of the first embodiment, andFIG. 9is a second flowchart (No.2) showing more printing operation of printer11of the first embodiment.

First, flow in a case where print data of twenty two sheets is transmitted to printer11from client PC14of the registered user of PIN “100” will be described.

Client PC14attaches the registered PIN “100” to print data including image data and transmits it to printer11.

In printer11, printer reception unit19receives the print data from client PC14(step S201).

Next, analyzing unit21analyses the received data and, upon determining that it is print data, transmits it to first judging unit22(step S202).

First judging unit22determines whether the print data has a PIN attached thereto (step S203).

Upon determining that a PIN is attached to the print data (step S203), first judging unit22obtains the PIN and informs printer controller30of the PIN (step S204). First judging unit22obtains the PIN of “100” and informs print controller30of it.

Printer controller30instructs job management unit24to create a permission information acquisition job command for obtaining permission information and then transmits the created permission information acquisition job command and the informed PIN to user information management unit17.

Responding to the permission information acquisition job command, user information management unit17determines whether the informed PIN has been registered in user information storage16(step S205). When it is determined that the informed PIN is already registered, user information management unit17obtains from user information storage16the permission information that is stored corresponding to the PIN (step S206).

In the case that PIN “100” is attached to the print data, user information management unit17obtains permission information “ON from user information storage16shown inFIG. 3A. The permission information is communicated to printer controller30.

Next, printer controller30informs second judging unit23of the permission information. Second judging unit23determines, based on the permission information, whether or not to permit printing (step S207).

If the permission information is “ON” (step S207), second judging unit23permits printing and informs printer controller30of the determination result (step S208).

Responding to input from printer controller30, job management unit24creates a print job based on the print data and transmits the print job to print controller25(step S209).

Print controller25creates page data of twenty two sheets based on the received print job and inputs them to engine unit26. Engine unit26executes printing based on the page data (step S210). In printing, engine unit26forms images on printable sheets and discharges the printed sheets. After completing printing, engine unit26informs print controller25of the completion.

Next, print controller25informs job management unit24of the printing result of engine unit26including the printed amount, which is the number of sheets printed. That is, print controller25informs job management unit24of the print result including printed amount “22”.

Job management unit24transmits to generation unit27a log creation job command for creating a print log. Based on the log creation job command, generation unit27creates a print log including the PIN and the printed amount (step S211). That is, generation unit27creates the print log including PIN “100” and printed amount “22”. The created print log is transmitted to printer controller30.

Next, printer controller30transmits to print log management unit29a log storage job command created by job management unit24and the print log received from generation unit27. Print log management unit29stores the received print log in print log storage28(step S212). Then, the print process in printer11ends.

As shown inFIG. 4, the print log including PIN “100” and printed amount “22” are stored in print log storage28.

If the permission information is “OFF” in step S207, second judging unit23determines to prohibit (not to permit) printing and transmits the determination result to printer controller30(step S213).

Printer controller30then informs job management unit24of a print cancelation, and job management unit24cancels the printing of the subject print data (step S214). Then, the print process in printer11ends.

As described above, the PIN attached to the print data is obtained and it is determined whether or not to permit printing based on the permission information corresponding to the PIN. When printing is executed, a print log including the PIN and the print amount is created and stored.

Next, flow in a case where print data of eight sheets is received from client PC15of an unregistered user will be described.

Client PC15of the unregistered user transmits the print data including image data of the eight sheets to printer11.

In printer11, printer reception unit19receives the print data from client PC15(step S201) and then analyzing unit21analyses the received data and determines that the received data is print data (step S202).

Next, first judging unit22determines whether a PIN is attached to the print data (step S203).

If it is determined that no PIN is attached to the print data (step S203), first judging unit22set its PIN to “0” (step S215). In this case, first judging unit22informs printer controller30of the set PIN “0”.

Next, printer controller30transmits a permission information acquisition job command job and the PIN “0” to user information management unit17. User information management unit17determines that PIN “0” is stored in user information storage16(step S205), and user information management unit17obtains permission information corresponding to the PIN “0” from user information storage16(step S206).

Next, second judging unit23determines whether the permission information permits printing (step S207). A description of the process after step S207will be omitted in detail since it is the same as that in the case of the registered user. When printing of eight sheets is executed (step S210), generation unit27creates a print log including the PIN “0” and printed amount “8” (step S211), and then the print log is stored in print log storage28(step S212). Then, the print process in printer11ends.

As shown inFIG. 4, the print log including the PIN “0” and the printed amount “8” is stored in print log storage28.

If it is determined that a PIN is attached in step S203, the PIN is obtained in step S204. Then it is determined that the PIN is not registered in step S205, and the PIN is reset to “0” (step S215). Next, user information management unit17obtains permission information corresponding to the PIN “0” and informs printer controller30of it (step S206), and then the process after step S207is executed.

As described above, in a case where no PIN is attached to the print data or an unregistered PIN is attached to the PIN, it is determined whether or not to permit printing based on the permission information set for the unregistered user.

Next, flow wherein the total printed amount and the limit amount for each PIN are compared to each other and then the setting of the permission information is changed in print system10will be described with reference toFIGS. 10 and 11.FIG. 10is a first flowchart (No.1) showing an OFF setting operation of the print system according to the first embodiment, andFIG. 11is a second flowchart (No.2) showing more of the OFF setting operation of the print system according to the first embodiment.

Here, a case will be described in which a total printed amount of an unregistered user reaches its limit amount and then its permission information is changed from “ON” to “OFF”.

In server12, input unit34, at predetermined time intervals (for example, every one hour) or, based on input from an operator, inputs a setting change request requesting changing the permission information in order to revise the setting of the permission information for the PIN (step S301).

Based on the setting change request, server controller43creates log request command data to obtain print logs from printer11. Server transmission unit32transmits the log request command data to printer11(step S302).

In printer11, printer reception unit19receives the log request command data from server12and then analyzing unit21analyses the received data and determines that the data is command data (step S303).

Next, job management unit24creates the log request job command based on the log request command data (step S304). The created log request job command is then transmitted to print log management unit29via printer controller30.

Print log management unit29receives the log request job command and then obtains the print logs including PINs and printed amounts from print log storage28(FIG. 4) (step S305). Based on input from printer controller30, printer transmission unit20transmits the obtained print logs to server12(step S305). Print log management unit29deletes the obtained print logs in print log storage28.

In server12, server reception unit33receives the print logs from printer11and then the print logs are transmitted to total printed amount management unit39via server controller43. Total printed amount management unit39updates total printed amount storage38based on the PINs and the corresponding printed amount in the received print logs (step S306).

Note that before the update, total printed amount “2” for PIN “0” and total printed amount “10” for PIN “100” were stored in total printed amount storage38as shown inFIG. 6A. Upon the update, total printed amount management unit39updates total printed amount storage38based on the print logs obtained from printer11, as shown inFIG. 6B. For example, the total printed amount for PIN “0” in total printed amount storage38is updated to “10” by adding the obtained printed amount “8” to the pre-update total printed amount of “2”. Also, the total printed amount for PIN “100” in total printed amount storage38is updated to “32” by adding the obtained printed amount “22” to the pre-update total printed amount “10”.

Next, based on input from server controller43, total printed amount management unit39obtains the total printed amount for PIN “0” from total printed amount storage38(step S307). That is, total printed amount management unit39obtains total printed amount “10” for PIN “0” from total printed amount storage38shown inFIG. 6B. Limit amount management unit37obtains the limited amount for PIN “0” from limit amount storage36(step S307). That is, limit amount management unit37obtains limit amount “10” for PIN “0” from limit amount storage36shown inFIG. 5B. The total printed amount and the limit amount obtained are then communicated to server controller43.

Server controller43informs setting unit40of the total printed amount and the limit amount, and its PIN. Comparison determination unit41of setting unit40compares the informed total printed amount with the informed limit amount and determines whether or not the total printed amount is equal to or greater than the limit amount (step S308).

When comparison determination unit41compares total printed amount “10” and the limit amount “10” and determines that the total printed amount is equal to or greater than) the limit amount (step S308), comparison determination unit41informs execution unit42of the corresponding PIN of “0”. Execution unit42sets and stores the informed PIN of “0” as a prohibited PIN (step S309).

Setting unit40informs server controller43of the completion of the comparison/determination process for PIN “0”. Server controller43determines whether a next PIN is registered in total printed amount storage38(step S310).

When server controller43determines that the next PIN is registered (step S310), total printed amount management unit39obtains total printed amount “0” for PIN “1” from total printed amount storage38and limit amount management unit37obtains limit amount “-” for PIN “1” from limit amount storage36(step S307).

Server controller43informs setting unit40of PIN “1”, total printed amount “0”, and limit amount “-”. Comparison determination unit41compares the total printed amount to the limit amount and determines whether or not the total printed amount is equal to or greater than the limit amount (step S308).

Since the limit amount for PIN “1” is not set in limit amount storage36, comparison determination unit41determines that the total printed amount is less than the limit amount (step S308). Comparison determination unit91informs server controller93of the completion of the comparison determination process for PIN “1”. Upon being informed of this notice, server controller43determines whether a next PIN is registered (step S310).

As described above, the total printed amount and the limit amount for each registered PIN that is registered in server12are obtained, and the comparison determination process is executed. When it is determined that a total printed amount for a PIN is equal to or greater than its limit amount, the PIN is set and stored as a prohibited PIN.

When it is determined that a next PIN is not registered or it is determined that the check of all the PIN are completed (step S310), server controller43instructs setting unit90to execute an OFF setting instruction (step S311).

In setting unit40, when the prohibited PIN is stored (step S312), execution unit42creates OFF setting command data and transmits it to server controller43in order to set permission information for each prohibited PIN to “OFF” based on the OFF setting instruction from server controller43(step S313).

Limit amount management unit37updates limit amount storage36based on the OFF setting command data and sets the permission information for the prohibited PIN to “OFF” (step S314).

In limit amount storage36, as shown inFIG. 5C, the permission information for the prohibited PIN of “0” is stored as a “OFF”.

Next, based on input from server controller43, server transmission unit32transmits the OFF setting command data to printer11(step S315).

In printer11, printer reception unit19receives the OFF setting command data from server12and then analyzing unit21executes an analysis of the received data and determines that the received data is command data (step S316).

Next, job management unit24creates the OFF setting job command based on the OFF setting command data (step S317). The OFF setting command job is transmitted to user information management unit17via printer controller30.

User information management unit17updates user information storage16based on the OFF setting job command and sets the permission information for the prohibited PIN to “OFF” (step S318). Then, the OFF setting process in print system10ends.

As shown inFIG. 3B, the permission information for prohibited PIN “0” is stored as “OFF” in user information storage16.

In step S312, if it is determined that no prohibited PIN exists, execution unit42informs server controller43of the determination result. Print system10then ends the OFF setting process.

As described above, for a PIN whose total printed amount reached its limit amount, the permission information of “OFF” is set in printer11and server12, thereby prohibiting printing using printer11by the PIN.

Note that the total printed amount stored in total printed amount storage38of server12is reset to “0” at predetermined time intervals such as one day in executing the accounting process, for example. Upon this resetting, permission information “OFF” with the limit amount stored in limit amount storage36and user information storage16of printer11is changed to “ON”.

As described above, since the print system of the embodiment sets the permission information and the limit amount for the unregistered user in advance, the print system is able to print based on print data within the range of the set limit amount, even though a PIN is not attached to the print data. Therefore, the print system of the embodiment does not have to install the print driver that attaches a PIN to print data, and a client PC of an external user (an outsider) is able to use the printer temporarily by transmitting print data there-from. Also, the print system is able to omit burdensome task of having to register or unregister a PIN for the temporary user by the administrator of the print system. Further, when printouts from a user exceed its limit amount, the user is prohibited from printing. Accordingly, the print system improves convenience while reducing the cost.

Note that, although the permission information for each PIN is set in both the printer and the server in the embodiment, the permission information may be set only in the printer.

Although the limit amount for each PIN is set in the server and the server executes the comparison determination process comparing the total printed amount to the limit amount in the embodiment, the invention is not limited to this. Also, the printer may store therein the limit amount for each user and execute the comparison determination process. Further, the comparison determination process may be executed at every printing, thereby certainly prohibiting from printing more than its limit amount.

FIG. 12is block diagram showing a functional configuration of a print system of a second embodiment according to the invention. Print system50of the embodiment has acquisition unit55in printer51for acquiring a PC name from print data, which is added to the configuration of the first embodiment, and thus is different from the first embodiment. Note that in the second embodiment, the same constituents as those of the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals and duplicate explanation as to the same constituents is omitted as long as possible.

As shown inFIG. 12, print system50, which is an image forming system according to the invention, includes printer51and server52communicatably connected to printer51via network13and configured to manage printer51and to executes accounting.

Also, client PCs14(not shown) used by registered users and client PCs15(not shown) used by unregistered users are communicatably connected to print system50via network13.

As shown inFIG. 12, printer51, which serves as an image forming apparatus, includes user information storage53, user information management unit54, printer communication unit18, analyzing unit21, first judging unit22, second judging unit23, acquisition unit55, job management unit24, print controller25, engine unit26, generation unit57, print log storage58, print log management unit59, and printer controller60.

User information storage53is comprised of, for example, a hard disk device and stores therein user information. In this embodiment, user information storage53stores therein permission information for each user indicating whether or not to permit each user to print using printer51.

FIGS. 13A,13B, and13C are explanatory views showing the configuration of the user information storage of the second embodiment. In user information storage53, a PIN serving as user identification information, a PC name serving as apparatus identification information, and permission information are stored corresponding to each other.

For example, in user information storage53shown inFIG. 13A, permission information “ON” is stored corresponding to PIN “1” and PC name “PC1”. This means that a registered user of PIN “1” is permitted to print by transmitting print data from client PC14of PC name “PC1”. The PC name “-” is stored corresponding to PIN “0” in user information storage53shown inFIG. 13A. This means that the PC name of client PC15used by an unregistered user, which is a user corresponding to PIN “0”, is unregistered in user information storage53.

Note that although permission information is stored corresponding to PINs and PC names in user information storage53in the embodiment, user names may be stored instead of the PC names.

User information management unit54manages user information storage53and obtains and updates data in user information storage53based on job commands from printer controller60.

Acquisition unit55, which serves as an apparatus acquisition unit, obtains a PC name from print data and informs printer controller60of it.

Generation unit57creates a print log including a printed amount (the number of printed sheets) serving as history information. The print log created by generation unit57in this embodiment is comprised of a PIN, a PC name, and a printed amount.

Print log storage58, which serves as storage, stores therein print logs of print jobs executed in a predetermined time.FIG. 14is an explanatory view showing the configuration of the print log storage according to the second embodiment.

Print log storage58of the embodiment stores therein print logs, each of which for each print job includes a PIN, a PC name, and a printed amount.

For example, PIN “100”, PC name “PC100”, and printed amount “22” that correspond to each other are stored in print log storage58shown inFIG. 14. This means that printing of twenty two sheets is already executed based on print data transmitted from client PC19of PC name “PC100”. Also, PIN “0”, PC name “PC0”, and printed amount “10” that correspond to each other are stored in print log storage58shown inFIG. 14. This means that printing of ten sheets is already executed based on print data transmitted from client PC15of PC name “PC0” used by an unregistered user.

Note that although print log storage58stores therein a PIN, a PC name, and a printed amount for each print job in this embodiment, the invention is not limited to this. For example, a total printed amount, which indicates the total number of sheets printed in a predetermined time, may be stored corresponding to each pair of PIN and PC name.

Print log management unit59has manages print log storage58and obtains and updates data in print log storage58based on job commands from printer controller60.

Printer controller60controls the components of printer51.

Server52includes, as shown inFIG. 12, server communication unit31, input unit34, display35, limit amount storage61, limit amount management unit62, total printed amount storage63, total printed amount management unit64, setting unit65, and server controller68.

Limit amount storage61, which is a storage, stores the limit amount, which serves as limit information, for each PIN.FIG. 15is an explanatory view of the configuration of limit amount storage61according to the second embodiment.

For example, limit amount “1000” is stored corresponding to PIN “100” in limit amount storage61shown inFIG. 15. This means that a registered user of PIN “100” is permitted to print up to one thousand sheets.

Also, limit amount “10” is stored corresponding to PIN “0” in limit amount storage61shown inFIG. 15. This means that unregistered users are permitted to print up to ten sheets.

Note that although only the limit amount is stored corresponding to each PIN in limit amount storage61in this embodiment, a PC name and/or permission information may be stored corresponding to the limit amount.

Limit amount management unit62manages limit amount storage61and obtains and updates data in limit amount storage61.

Total printed amount storage63is a storage storing therein the total printed amount for each PIN and PC name.FIG. 16is an explanatory view of the configuration of total printed amount storage63of the second embodiment.

For example, corresponding to PIN “1” and PC name “PC1”, the total printed amount “0” is stored in total printed amount storage63shown inFIG. 16A.

Total printed amount management unit64manages total printed amount storage63and obtains and updates data in total printed amount storage63.

Comparison determination unit66compares a total printed amount and a limit amount received from server controller68and determines whether or not the total printed amount is equal to or greater than the limit amount. Upon determining that the total printed amount is equal to or greater than the limit amount, comparison determination unit66communicates a PIN and a PC name to execution unit67.

Execution unit67sets the PIN and the PC name received from comparison determination unit66as a prohibited PIN and a prohibited PC name, and temporarily stores them. Based on input from server controller68, execution unit67creates the setting command data and transmits it to server controller68in order to set permission information in printer51.

Server controller68controls the components of server52.

Next, operation of print system50of the second embodiment will be described. Note that the flow of setting the limit amount for an unregistered user to server52is the same as that in the first embodiment (FIG. 7) and thus the description thereof will be omitted.

Here, the flow of comparing the total printed amount and the limit amount for each PIN and changing the setting of the permission information in print system50will be described with reference toFIGS. 17 and 18.FIG. 17is a first flowchart (No.1) showing OFF setting operation of the print system of the second embodiment, andFIG. 18is a second flowchart (No.2) showing more of the OFF setting operation of the print system of the second embodiment.

Here, the case where the total printed amount of an unregistered user reaches its limit amount and its permission information is changed from “ON” to “OFF” will be described.

When a setting change request for changing the setting of the permission information is input from input unit34in server52(step S301), server controller68creates log request command data and server transmission unit32transmits the log request command data to printer51(step S302).

In printer51, printer reception unit19receives the log request command data from server52and then analyzing unit21analyses it and determines that it is a command data (step S303).

Job management unit24creates the log request job command (step S304), and print log management unit59obtains print logs from print log storage58(FIG. 14) based on the log request job command (step S305). Printer transmission unit20transmits the print logs to server52(step S305). Print log management unit59then deletes the obtained print logs in print log storage58.

In server52, server reception unit33receives the print logs from printer51and then total printed amount management unit64updates total printed amount storage63based on PINs and printed amounts corresponding to the PINs in the received print logs (step S401).

Before the update, total printed amount “10” corresponding to PIN “100” and PC name “PC100” is stored in total printed amount storage63as shown inFIG. 16A. Upon the update, corresponding to PIN “100” and PC name “PC100” in the obtained print logs, total printed amount management unit64updates its total printed amount to “32” as shown inFIG. 16Bby adding printed amount “22” to the pre-update total printed amount of “10”.

As shown inFIG. 16A, before the update, total printed amount “0” corresponding to PIN “0” and PC name “-” is stored in total printed amount storage63and a total printed amount corresponding to PIN “0” and PC name “PC0” is not stored in total printed amount storage63. Upon the update, total printed amount management unit64creates a new PC name of “PC0” with PIN “0” in total printed amount storage63in order to update based on a print log having a printed amount of “10” corresponding to PIN “0” and PC name “PC0” and then stores the total printed amount of “10” corresponding to PC name “PC0” in total printed amount storage63(FIG. 16B).

Total printed amount storage63is thus updated based on the obtained print logs (step S401).

Next, total printed amount management unit64obtains sequential data one by one from total printed amount storage63(FIG. 16B). Namely, first, total printed amount management unit64obtains total printed amount “0” corresponding to PIN “0” and PC name “-” (step S402). Limit amount management unit62obtains limit amount “10” corresponding to PIN “0” from limit amount storage61(FIG. 15) (step S402). The total printed amount and limit amount is sent to informed server controller68.

Server controller68informs setting unit65of the received total printed amount “0”, the received limit amount of “10”, PIN “0”, and PC name “-”. Comparison determination unit66of setting unit65then compares the received total printed amount and the received limit amount and determines whether or not the total printed amount is equal to or greater than the limit amount (step S308).

Upon determining that the total printed amount of “0” is less than the limit amount of “10” (step S308), comparison determination unit66notifies server controller68of the completion of the comparison determination process for PIN “0” and PC name “-”. After receiving the notification, server controller68determines whether a next pair of PIN and PC name are registered (step S404).

When determining that the next PIN and PC name (PIN “0” and PC name “PC0”) are registered (step S404), total printed amount management unit64obtains total printed amount “10” corresponding to the PIN of “0” and the PC name of “PC0” from total printed amount storage63(FIG. 16B) (step S402). Limit amount management unit62obtains the limit amount “10” corresponding to the PIN of “0” from limit amount storage61(FIG. 15) (step S402). The total printed amount and the limit amount obtained are sent to server controller68.

Server controller68informs setting unit65of PIN “0”, PC name “PC0”, and total printed amount “10” and limit amount “10”. Comparison determination unit66of setting unit65compares the total printed amount and the limit amount and determines whether or not the total printed amount is equal to or greater than the limit amount (step S308).

Upon determining that the total printed amount is equal to or greater than the limit amount by comparing total printed amount “10” and limit amount “10” (step S308), comparison determination unit66informs execution unit67of the corresponding PIN and PC name (which is PIN “0” and PC name “PC0”). Execution unit67sets and stores therein the received PIN and PC name as the prohibited PIN and PC name (step S403).

Next, setting unit65notifies server controller68of the completion of the comparison determination process for PIN “0” and PC name “PC0”. Next, server controller68determines whether a next pair of PIN and PC name exists.

As described above, corresponding to each pair of PIN and PC name registered in server52, the total printed amount and the limit amount are obtained and the comparison determination process is executed. When it is determined that the total printed amount for either the PIN or the PC name is equal to or greater than the limit amount, the PIN and the PC name are set and stored as a prohibited PIN and a prohibited PC name.

When a next pair of PIN and PC name is not registered (step S404), server controller68instructs setting unit65to executes an OFF setting (step S311).

Next, when any prohibited PIN and prohibited PC name are stored (step S405), execution unit67of setting unit65creates the OFF setting command data and transmits it to server controller68based on the OFF setting instruction in order to set the permission information for the prohibited PIN and PC name to “OFF” (step S406).

Next, server transmission unit32transmits the OFF setting command data to printer51(step S315).

In printer51, printer reception unit19receives the OFF setting command data from server52and then analyzing unit21analyses the received data and determines that the received data is command data (step S316).

Next, job management unit24creates the OFF setting job command (step S317) and transmits the OFF setting job command to user information management unit54via printer controller60.

User information management unit54updates user information storage53based on the OFF setting job command and sets the permission information for the prohibited PIN and PC name to “OFF” (step S407).

Before the update, permission information “ON” is stored corresponding to PIN “0” and PC name “-” and no permission information is stored corresponding to PIN “0” and PC name “PC0” in user information storage53as shown inFIG. 13A. User information management unit59creates and stores a new PC name of “PC0” corresponding to PIN “0” in user information storage53in order to set the permission information corresponding to PIN “0” and PC name “PC0” and then stores “OFF” in the permission corresponding to PC name “PC0”.

As shown inFIG. 13C, corresponding to PIN “0” and PC name “PC0”, permission information “OFF” is stored in user information storage53. Thus, the OFF setting process in print system50ends.

In step S405, when it is determined that no prohibited PIN and no prohibited PC name exist, execution unit67informs server controller68of the determination result. Thus, the OFF setting process in print system50ends.

As described above, for a PIN and a PC name whose total printed amount reaches its limit amount, permission information “OFF” is set in printer51. This prohibits the PIN and PC name from printing using printer51.

Note that the total printed amounts stored in total printed amount storage63of server52are reset to “0” in an accounting process executed at predetermined time intervals, for example. Also, permission information “OFF” set in printer51is changed to “ON” at this reset process.

Next, in printer51, the flow of process when receiving print data will be described with reference toFIGS. 19 and 20.

FIG. 19is a first flow chart (No.1) showing the printing operation of a printer of the second embodiment according to the invention, andFIG. 20is a second flow chart (No.2) showing more of the printing operation of the printer of the second embodiment.

First, the flow in a case where printer51receives print data from client PC14of registered PIN and PC name will be described.

Client PC14attached a registered PIN to print data including image data and its PC name and transmits it to printer51.

In printer51, printer reception unit19receives the print data from client PC14(step S201).

Next, analyzing unit21analyses the received data and determines that the received data is print data (step S202), and then first judging unit22determines whether a PIN is attached to the print data (step S203).

If it is determined that the PIN is attached to the print data (step S203), first judging unit22obtains the PIN (step S204).

Also, acquisition unit55obtains the PC name from the print data based on input from printer controller60(step S501).

Next, printer controller60transmits a permission information acquisition job command and the PIN and the PC name to user information management unit54.

User information management unit54determines whether the received PIN and PC name are registered in user information storage53(step S502). If it is determined that they are registered, user information management unit54obtains its permission information corresponding to the PIN and PC name (step S503).

Next, second judging unit23determines, based on the permission information, whether printing is to be permitted (step S207).

If the permission information is “ON” (step S207), second judging unit23determines that printing is permitted (step S208).

Job management unit24then creates a print job based on the print data and transmits it to print controller25(step S209). Print controller25creates page data based on the print job and transmits it to engine unit26.

Next, engine unit26executes printing based on the page data (step S210) and then transmits the completion of the printing to print controller25.

Print controller25informs job management unit24of its print result including its printed amount (the number of printed sheets). Job management unit24transmits the log creation job command to generation unit27.

Next, generation unit27creates a print log including the PIN, the PC name, and the printed amount (step S504). Print log management unit59receives a log storage job command and the print log from printer controller60and stores the print log in print log storage58(step S505). Thus, the printing process in printer51ends.

If the permission information is “OFF” in step S207, second judging unit23determines that printing is prohibited (step S213). Printer controller60informs job management unit24of cancelation of the printing, and job management unit24cancels the printing (step S214). Thus, the printing process in printer51ends.

If it is determined that a pair of PIN and PC name is not registered in step S502after it is determined that a PIN is attached in step S203, printer51determines that printing is prohibited (step S213) and cancels the printing (step S214).

As described above, the PIN and the PC name are obtained from the print data, and it is determined whether the printing is permitted or not.

Next, the flow in a case where print data of ten sheets received from client PC15used by an unregistered user and whose PC name is “PC0” will be described.

In printer51, when printer reception unit19receives the print data from client PC15(step S201), analyzing unit21analyses the received data and determines that the received data is print data (step S202). Next, first judging unit22determines whether a PIN is attached to the print data (step S203).

If determining that no PIN is attached to the print data (step S203), first judging unit22obtains PIN “0” and informs printer controller60of it (step S215).

Next, printer controller60transmits a permission information acquisition job command and PIN “0” to user information management unit54. User information management unit54then obtains permission information for PIN “0” and PC name “-” from user information storage53(step S506). In user information storage53shown inFIGS. 13B and 13C, the permission information of “ON” is stored corresponding to PIN “0” and PC name “-”. User information management unit59obtains this permission information of “ON” and informs printer controller60of it.

Next, second judging unit23determines whether the obtained permission information is “ON” or “OFF” (step S507).

If the permission information is “ON” (step S507), second judging unit23informs printer controller60of the determination result. Next, acquisition unit55obtains the PC name from the print data based on input from printer controller60(step S508). Acquisition unit55obtains the PC name of “PC0” and informs printer controller60of it.

Printer controller60then transmits a permission information acquisition job command, PIN “0”, and PC name “PC0” to user information management unit54. User information management unit54determines whether the received PC name of “PC0” corresponding to PIN “0” is registered or not in user information storage53(step S509).

In user information storage53shown inFIGS. 13B and 13C, the informed PC name of “PC0” is registered corresponding to PIN “0” (step S509). Then, user information management unit54obtains the permission information corresponding to PIN “0” and PC name “PC0” (step S510).

Next, second judging unit23determines whether the printing is permitted or prohibited, based on the permission information (step S207).

For example, in a case where the permission information corresponding to PIN “0” and PC name “PC0” is obtained from user information storage53ofFIG. 13B(step S510), the permission information is “ON” (step S207), and then second judging unit23determines that the printing is permitted (step S208).

Next, job management unit24creates a print job based on the print data and transmits it to print controller25(step S209). Print controller25creates page data of ten sheets based on the print data and transmits it to engine unit26.

Next, engine unit26executes printing based on the page data (step S210) and then informs print controller25of the completion notification.

Print controller25informs job management unit24of the print result including the printed amount of “10”. Job management unit29transmits the log creation command job to generation unit57.

Next, generation unit27creates a print log including PIN “0”, PC name “PC0” and printed amount “10” (step S509). Print log management unit59then receives a log storage command job and the print log from printer controller60and stores the print log to print log storage58(step S505). Thus, the printing process in printer51ends.

As shown inFIG. 14, the print log including PIN “0”, PC name “PC0” and printed amount “10” is stored in print log storage58.

If permission information corresponding to PIN “0” and PC name “PC0” is obtained from user information storage53ofFIG. 13Cin step S510, the permission information is “OFF” (step S207) and second judging unit23thus determines that printing is prohibited (step S213).

Then printer controller60informs job management unit24of cancelation of the printing and job management unit24cancels the printing (step S219). Thus, the printing process in printer51ends.

As described above, if no PIN is attached to the print data and permission information that is set for unregistered users is “ON”, its PC name is obtained from the print data, and it is determined based on the permission information that is set for the PC name that the printing is permitted or prohibited.

If permission information corresponding to PIN “0” and PC name “-” is “OFF” in step S507, second judging unit23determines that the printing is prohibited (step S213).

Then, printer controller60informs job management unit24of cancelation of the printing and job management unit24cancels the printing (step S219). Thus the printing process in printer51ends.

As described above, if no PIN is attached to the print data and the permission information is set for unregistered users is “OFF”, printer51cancels the printing without obtaining its PC name from the print data.

As described above, in the print system of the embodiment, the limit amount is set for each PIN and the permission information is set for each PC name. Therefore, even if plural non-internal users want to temporarily use the printer, each non-internal user is able to print within the set limit amount. Consequently, the embodiment further improves convenience.

Although an image forming apparatus according to the invention is adapted to a printer in the above described embodiments, the image forming apparatus according to the invention is not limited to this. For example, the image forming apparatus according to the invention can be adopted to any type of image forming apparatus such as a scanner, facsimile machine, copy machine, MFP (Multi-Function Peripheral or Multi-Function Printer), or the like.

Although user identification information is a PIN comprised of one to three digits in the above described embodiment, the invention is not limited to this. For example, the user identification information may be password comprising number(s) and code(s) or the like.