JP2018005444A - Information processing device, information processing system, control method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an information processing device, an information processing system, a control method, and a program that can reduce a work load on a user of printing an attachment document by efficiently printing a document or the like attached to an application document.SOLUTION: After an email displayed on an application waiting list screen 1000 is selected, when a print button 1003 is depressed, instructions to print the email and attachment data are transmitted to an attachment data analysis server 104. The attachment data analysis server 104 converts the email and attachment data into a printable format and transmits resultant print data to a multifunction peripheral 106. Upon receiving the print data, the multifunction peripheral 106 prints the print data as is, and transmits a print completion notice to a client PC 102.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

  The present invention relates to a mechanism that allows a printing apparatus to issue a print instruction, and more particularly to a mechanism that issues a print instruction to a printing apparatus regarding a file attached to an application document.

  In modern times, it is common to accept orders by e-mail, for example, the order details are written in the main text, documents and materials necessary for ordering are sent as attached files, and the person who received the e-mail It is possible to check the order contents and attached files, and start the in-house workflow if there are no excess or shortage in the contents.

  In such operations, the attached file is output on paper and the description of the document etc. is checked. At that time, the attached file already output on paper is erroneously output on paper. This wastes paper.

  Therefore, in order to reduce paper waste, there is a technique for managing users who output meeting materials on paper and outputting meeting materials for users who have not printed meeting materials on paper (for example, patents). Reference 1).

JP2007-207049

  However, when outputting attached files on paper, the user normally selects each attached file and issues a print instruction to print. When there are a plurality of attached files in one mail, 1 Selecting an attached file one by one and giving a print instruction for printing can be a work load for the person in charge.

  With the technology described in Patent Document 1, it is possible to reduce the waste of paper. However, the problem relating to the workload of the person in charge, such as selecting an attached file and issuing a print instruction, is described or suggested. There is no.

  Therefore, in the present invention, an information processing apparatus, an information processing system, a control method, and an information processing apparatus that can reduce the work load required for printing the attached file of the user by efficiently printing the file attached to the application document, and The purpose is to provide a program.

  In view of the above problems, the present invention provides an application accepting unit that accepts an application to which a file is attached, a print requesting unit that requests a printing apparatus to print a file attached to an application accepted by the application accepting unit, Approval means for approving the application.

  Advantageous Effects of Invention According to the present invention, it is possible to reduce the work load required for printing a user's attached file by efficiently printing the file attached to the application document.

It is a block diagram of an information processing system. It is a block diagram which shows the hardware constitutions of the information processing apparatus applicable to an attached data analysis server and client PC. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a controller unit of a multifunction machine. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the printing process of a mail text and attached data. It is a flowchart which shows a mail and attachment data process. It is a flowchart which shows an approval process. It is a flowchart which shows a reapplication process. It is a flowchart which shows a change part print preparation process. It is a block diagram of a user information table. It is a block diagram of a mail information table. It is a block diagram of an attached data information table. It is a block diagram of a print data information table. It is a block diagram of a login screen. It is a block diagram of a menu screen. It is a block diagram of an application waiting list screen. It is a block diagram of a mail / attached data all print screen. It is a block diagram of a reapplication list screen. It is a block diagram of a printing method selection screen. It is a block diagram of a mail attachment data change print screen. It is a block diagram of an approver login screen. It is a block diagram of an approval waiting screen. It is a block diagram of an approval / denial selection screen. It is a block diagram of an approval screen. It is a block diagram of an application waiting list screen. It is a block diagram of a job list screen.

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

  FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing system of the present invention.

  1 shows an information processing system 100 in which one or more client PCs 102, one or more attached data analysis servers 104, and one or more multifunction peripherals 106 are connected via a local area network (LAN) 108. It has become.

  In response to an operation instruction from the user, the client PC 102 issues an application instruction to the attached data analysis server 104 or issues a print instruction to the multifunction device 106. Alternatively, the approver approves the application.

  The attached data analysis server 104 analyzes a file attached to the received mail and issues a print instruction to the multifunction device 106 with respect to the attached file.

  In addition, the information processing system 100 according to the present embodiment includes one or more MFPs 106 configured as described above, one or more attached data analysis servers 104, and one or more WANs configured to be connected via the LAN 108. May be connected.

  Hereinafter, the hardware configuration of the information processing apparatus applicable to the client PC 102 and the attached data analysis server 104 illustrated in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of an information processing apparatus applicable to the client PC 102 and the attached data analysis server 104 shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 2, reference numeral 201 denotes a CPU that comprehensively controls each device and controller connected to the system bus 204. Further, the ROM 202 or the external memory 211 is necessary to realize a BIOS (Basic Input / Output System) or an operating system program (hereinafter referred to as an OS), which is a control program of the CPU 201, or a function executed by each server or each PC. Various programs to be described later are stored.

  A RAM 203 functions as a main memory, work area, and the like for the CPU 201. The CPU 201 implements various operations by loading a program or the like necessary for execution of processing from the ROM 202 or the external memory 211 into the RAM 203 and executing the loaded program.

  An input controller 205 controls input from a keyboard (KB) 209 or a pointing device such as a mouse (not shown). A video controller 206 controls display on a display device such as a CRT display (CRT) 210.

  In FIG. 2, although described as CRT 210, the display device is not limited to the CRT, but may be another display device such as a liquid crystal display. These are used by the administrator as needed.

  A memory controller 207 is provided in an external storage device (hard disk (HD)), a flexible disk (FD), or a PCMCIA card slot for storing a boot program, various applications, font data, user files, editing files, various data, and the like. Controls access to an external memory 211 such as a compact flash (registered trademark) memory connected via an adapter.

  A communication I / F controller 208 is connected to and communicates with an external device via a network (for example, the LAN 108 shown in FIG. 1), and executes communication control processing on the network. For example, communication using TCP / IP is possible.

  Note that the CPU 201 enables display on the CRT 210 by executing outline font rasterization processing on a display information area in the RAM 203, for example. In addition, the CPU 201 enables a user instruction with a mouse cursor (not shown) on the CRT 210.

  Various programs to be described later for realizing the present invention are recorded in the external memory 211 and executed by the CPU 201 by being loaded into the RAM 203 as necessary.

  Furthermore, definition files and various information tables used when executing the program are also stored in the external memory 211, and a detailed description thereof will be described later.

  Next, the hardware configuration of the controller unit that controls the multifunction peripheral 106 as the printing apparatus of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the controller unit of the multifunction peripheral 106 illustrated in FIG.

  In FIG. 3, reference numeral 316 denotes a controller unit which is connected to a scanner 314 functioning as an image input device and a printer unit 312 functioning as an image output device, while being connected to a LAN (for example, the LAN 108 shown in FIG. 1) or a public line (WAN ) (For example, PSTN or ISDN) to input / output image data and device information.

  In the controller unit 316, reference numeral 301 denotes a CPU, which is a processor that controls the entire system. A RAM 302 is a system work memory for the CPU 301 to operate, and is also a program memory for recording a program and an image memory for temporarily recording image data.

  A ROM 303 stores a system boot program and various control programs. A hard disk drive (HDD) 304 stores various programs for controlling the system, image data, and the like.

  An operation unit interface (operation unit I / F) 307 is an interface unit with the operation unit (keyboard) 308. Further, the operation unit I / F 307 serves to transmit the key information (for example, pressing of the start button) input from the operation unit 308 to the CPU 301.

  Reference numeral 305 denotes a network interface (Network I / F), which is connected to the network (LAN 108). In addition, wireless communication is also possible, and connection is made with other devices by communication using infrared rays, Bluetooth (registered trademark), or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). Input and output data. A modem (MODEM) 306 is connected to a public line and inputs / outputs data such as transmission / reception to / from an external device.

  Reference numeral 318 denotes an external interface (external I / F), which is an I / F unit that accepts external inputs such as USB, IEEE 1394, printer port, RS-232C, etc. In this embodiment, an IC card for a portable terminal required for authentication A card reader 319 for reading (storage medium) is connected to the external I / F unit 318.

  The CPU 301 can control reading of information from the IC card of the mobile terminal by the card reader 319 via the external I / F 318, and can acquire information read from the IC card of the mobile terminal. The above devices are arranged on the system bus 309.

  Reference numeral 320 denotes an image bus interface (IMAGE BUS I / F), which is a bus bridge that connects the system bus 309 and an image bus 315 that transfers image data at high speed and converts the data structure.

  The image bus 315 is configured by a PCI bus or IEEE1394. The following devices are arranged on the image bus 315.

  A raster image processor (RIP) 310 develops vector data such as a PDL code into a bitmap image.

  A printer interface (printer I / F) 311 connects the printer unit 312 and the controller unit 316 and performs synchronous / asynchronous conversion of image data. A scanner interface (scanner I / F) 313 connects the scanner 314 and the controller unit 316 and performs synchronous / asynchronous conversion of image data.

  An image processing unit 317 performs correction, processing, and editing on input image data, and performs correction, resolution conversion, and the like on print output image data.

  In addition to this, the image processing unit 317 performs image data rotation and compression / decompression processing such as JPEG for multi-valued image data and JBIG, MMR, MH for binary image data.

  The scanner unit 314 illuminates an image on paper as a document and scans it with a CCD line sensor, thereby converting it into an electrical signal as raster image data.

  The original paper is set on the tray of the original feeder, and when the apparatus user gives a reading start instruction from the operation unit 308, the CPU 301 gives an instruction to the scanner 314, and the feeder feeds the original paper one by one to read the original image. I do.

  The printer unit 312 is a part that converts raster image data into an image on paper. The method is an electrophotographic method using a photosensitive drum or a photosensitive belt, and ink is ejected from a micro nozzle array directly on the paper. There is an inkjet method for printing an image, but any method may be used.

  The activation of the printing operation is started by an instruction from the CPU 301. The printer unit 312 has a plurality of paper feed stages so that different paper sizes or different paper orientations can be selected, and has a paper cassette corresponding thereto.

  The operation unit 308 has an LCD display unit, and a touch panel sheet is pasted on the LCD. The operation unit 308 displays an operation screen of the system. When a displayed key is pressed, the position information is displayed on the operation unit I / F 307. To the CPU 301 via

  The operation unit 308 includes, for example, a start key, a stop key, an ID key, a reset key, and the like as various operation keys.

  Here, the start key of the operation unit 308 is used when starting a document image reading operation. At the center of the start key, there are two color LEDs, green and red, which indicate whether or not the start key can be used.

  Further, the stop key of the operation unit 308 functions to stop the operation in operation. The ID key of the operation unit 308 is used when inputting the user ID of the user. The reset key is used when initializing settings from the operation unit.

  The card reader 319 reads information stored in an IC card (which may be provided in the portable terminal as an IC chip) under the control of the CPU 301, and reads the read information via the external I / F 318. To notify.

  Further, the card reader 319 corresponds to the NFC communication standard, and is configured to be able to read and write to an IC card or an IC chip of a portable terminal.

  Note that when an NFC standard-compliant portable terminal is held over an NFC standard-compliant card reader, authentication is performed and the portable terminal and the multifunction device are paired. Then, it is possible to establish communication (P2P) between the held portable terminal and the multifunction device to perform data communication.

  In addition, it is also possible to take over communication (handover) to Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark), which are high-speed communication standards, and to perform communication between the portable terminal and the multifunction peripheral.

  For example, by holding the portable terminal over a card reader, an image stored in the portable terminal can be transmitted to the multifunction peripheral. The details of the NFC communication standard are conventional techniques, and thus the description thereof will be omitted.

  In the above-described multifunction device 106, a platform for controlling the multifunction device 106 exists, and an authentication application for communicating with an authentication server (not shown) is operating on the platform. The authentication application is stored in the HDD 304.

  An area on the HDD 304 is secured for a login context that is managed by the platform and stores user information at the time of login, and various setting information.

  On the platform, an application in which the main body function of the multifunction machine 106 is extended is installed and operated. These applications are executed using the platform API.

  Through this platform, each function of the multifunction peripheral can be controlled.

  In addition, the MFP 106 also stores a Web browser, and can also cooperate with the Web system. In this case, the screen received from the web application server is displayed using a web browser.

  A command instructed on the Web browser is requested to the Web application server, and an operation (scanning or print processing) can be executed by the MFP 106 by receiving the command from the Web application server.

  With the configuration described above, the multi-function peripheral 106 can transmit the image data read from the scanner 314 to the LAN 108 and print out the print data received from the LAN 108 by the printer unit 312.

  Further, the image data read from the scanner 314 can be faxed to the public line by the modem 306, and the image data received by fax from the public line can be output by the printer unit 312.

  Hereinafter, the mail text and attached data print processing will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  This processing is performed by the client PC 102, the attached data analysis server 104, and the multi function device 106.

  In step S101, the client PC 102 accesses the information processing system 100 by a user operation, and displays a system login screen 800 (see FIG. 13).

  Subsequently, when it is detected that the user ID and the password are input to the login ID 801 and the password 802 by the user operation and the login 803 is pressed by the user operation, the input login ID and password are input to the attached data analysis server 104. Send to.

  The attached data analysis server 104 inquires of the user information table 400 (see FIG. 9) provided for itself regarding the received login ID and password.

  FIG. 9 is a data structure diagram showing an example of the user information table 400. As shown in FIG. 4, the user information table 400 includes a user ID 401 that uniquely identifies a user, a user name 402 that indicates a user name, and a user password 403.

  In this step, if there is a combination in which the user ID 401 and password 403 that match the login ID and password exist, authentication to the information processing system 100 is performed and the user logs in. If there is no combination, the login is performed. An error (not shown) is made.

  In step S102, the client PC 102 displays the menu screen 900 (see FIG. 14) after login is performed in step S101.

  In step S103, when the client PC 102 detects that the application waiting 901 has been pressed by a user operation, in step S104, the client PC 102 displays the application waiting list screen 1000 (see FIG. 15).

  On the application waiting list screen 1000, records whose application status 504 has not been applied among the mail information stored in the mail information table 500 (details will be described later) are displayed.

  For example, when an email transmitted from an external system addressed to the user is stored in the email information table 500, the information about the email is stored as an unapplied record. The user refers to this unapplied mail, selects an email that needs to be applied, and applies.

  In step S105, the client PC 102 detects that a mail displayed on the application waiting list screen 1000 is selected by a user operation. In the illustrated example, the mail B1001 is selected, but the same operation is performed even when another mail is selected.

  In step S106, the client PC 102 presses the print 1002 by a user operation.

  In step S <b> 107, the client PC 102 transmits information (mail information) related to the mail selected in step S <b> 105 to the attached data analysis server 104.

  In step S108, the attached data analysis server 104 receives the mail information transmitted from the client PC 102 in step S107.

  In step S109, the attached data analysis server 104 inquires of the mail information table 500 provided for itself based on the mail information received in step S108 (see FIG. 10). As an example shown in the figure, an inquiry is made based on the mail information of the mail B selected in step S105.

  FIG. 10 is a data structure diagram showing an example of the mail information table. As shown in FIG. 10, the mail information table includes a mail ID 501 that uniquely identifies a mail, a mail title 502 that indicates a mail subject, a mail text 503, and a mail application status 504.

  As the application status 504, 0 indicates “not applied”, 1 indicates “applied”, 2 indicates “reapply”, and 3 indicates “approved”.

  In step S110, the attached data analysis server 104 acquires corresponding data, in the illustrated example, a record 505 corresponding to mail B.

  In step S111, the attached data analysis server 104 performs mail / attached data processing (see FIG. 5) for the mail acquired in step S110.

  In step S <b> 112, the attached data analysis server 104 transmits a mail text to be printed and a set of print data obtained by converting the attached data for printing (listed records described later) to the multifunction device 106.

  Each print data may be configured to include a mail ID, or a mail ID is stored in association with a job ID issued to uniquely identify the print data, and each print data has a job ID. A configuration including this may be used. Alternatively, the print data may include a job ID and a mail ID.

  In step S113, the multi-function peripheral 106 receives the print data set transmitted from the attached data analysis server 104 in step S112.

  In step S114, the multi-function peripheral 106 performs printing for the set of print data received in step S113.

  In step S <b> 115, the multifunction device 106 transmits a print completion notification to the attached data analysis server 104. At this time, the notification including the mail ID may be performed, or the notification including the job ID may be performed. Further, notification may be performed including the job ID and the mail ID. Which method is applied conforms to the method described above in step S112.

  In step S116, the attached data analysis server 104 receives the print completion notification transmitted in step S115. After receiving, the application status 504 of the record 505 in the mail information table 500 is changed from 0 to 1 based on the mail ID of the mail that has been printed.

  In step S117, the attached data analysis server 104 transmits a mail / attached data print completion notification to the client PC.

  In step S118, the client PC 102 receives the mail / attached data printing completion notification transmitted from the attached data analysis server 104 in step S117.

  In step S119, the client PC 102 displays a print completion screen 1100 (see FIG. 16).

  In step S120, the client PC 102 detects that OK 1101 has been pressed by a user operation, and ends the process.

  The mail / attached data processing will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. This process is executed in the attached data analysis server 104.

  In step S201, the mail information table 500 and the attached data information table 600 (see FIG. 11) are inquired to obtain the corresponding data.

  FIG. 11 is a data structure diagram showing an example of the attached data information table. As shown in FIG. 11, the attached data information table stores an attached data ID 601 for uniquely identifying attached data, a mail ID 602 for uniquely identifying mail (corresponding to the mail ID 501), and attached data. It consists of attached data 603 indicating a directory.

  In this step, in the case of the illustrated example, a record 505, a record 604, and a record 605 corresponding to the mail B (that is, the mail ID of M0002) are acquired. List the acquired records as a print list.

  In step S202, it is determined whether or not there is data in the list created in step S201. If it is determined that there is data, the process proceeds to step S203. If not, the process proceeds to step S207.

  In step S203, one record is acquired from the top of the list created in step S201.

  In step S <b> 204, the record acquired in step S <b> 203 is converted into a format that can be printed by the multifunction device 106. For example, the acquired record is converted into a PDF file.

  In step S205, the record converted in step S204 is registered in the print data information table 700.

  FIG. 12 shows a data structure diagram showing an example of the print data information table 700. As shown in FIG. 12, the print data information table 700 stores a management ID 701 for uniquely identifying print data, a mail ID 702 for uniquely identifying mail (corresponding to the mail ID 501), and print data. It consists of data 703 indicating a directory.

  In step S206, the record acquired in step S203 is deleted from the list. After the deletion, the process of step S202 is continued.

  In step 207, processing is performed when it is determined in step S202 that there are no more records in the list.

  In this step, all corresponding print data is acquired from the print data information table 700 and listed. In the illustrated example, all records whose mail ID 702 corresponding to the mail B is M0002 are acquired and listed.

  The approval process will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  In step S301, the client PC 102 accesses the approver login screen 1500 (see FIG. 20) of the information processing system 100 by a user operation, and displays the approver login screen 1500.

  Note that the client PC 102 at this time may be the client PC 102 for the approver, and may be different from the client PC 102 when logged in in step S101.

  Subsequently, when the user ID and password are input for the login ID 1501 and password 1502 by the user operation and the login 1503 is pressed by the user operation, the input login ID and password are transmitted to the attached data analysis server 104.

  The attached data analysis server 104 makes an inquiry to the user information table 400 provided therein, and if there is a combination in which the user ID 401 and the password 403 that match the login ID and password exist, If the authentication is performed and the approver logs in and there is no combination, a login error (not shown) is issued.

  In step S302, the client PC 102 displays an approval wait screen 1600 (see FIG. 21) when login is performed in step S301.

  On the approval waiting screen 1600, records for which the application status 504 has been applied among the mail information stored in the mail information table 500 are displayed.

  In step S303, the client PC 102 selects the record 1601 waiting for approval by the user operation, and presses the selection 1602 by the user operation.

  In step S304, the client PC 102 displays an approval / denial selection screen 1700 (see FIG. 22). If the approval 1701 is pressed by a user operation, step S306 is executed. If the denial 1702 is pressed, Step S305 is executed.

  In step S305, the attached data analysis server 104 inquires the mail information table 500 regarding the record selected in step S303, and changes the application status 504 of the corresponding record to 2.

  In step S306, the attached data analysis server 104 inquires the mail information table 500 regarding the record selected in step S303, and changes the application status 504 of the corresponding record to 3.

  In step S <b> 307, the attached data analysis server 104 transmits a change completion notification to the client PC 102.

  In step S308, the client PC 102 receives the change completion notification transmitted in step S307.

  In step S309, the client PC 102 displays an approval screen 1800 (see FIG. 23).

  In step S310, when the OK 1801 is pressed by a user operation, the client PC 102 ends this process.

  Next, the reapplication process will be described using the flowchart shown in FIG.

  In step S401, the client PC 102 accesses the information processing system 100 by a user operation, and the system login screen 800 is displayed.

  Subsequently, when the user ID and password are input to the login ID 801 and password 802 by the user operation and the login 803 is pressed by the user operation, the input login ID and password are transmitted to the attached data analysis server 104.

  The attached data analysis server 104 queries the user information table 400 using the login ID and password, and if there is a corresponding combination together with the user ID 401 and password 403, the information processing system 100 is authenticated and the user is authenticated. When logging in and there is no combination, a login error (not shown) is issued.

  In step S402, the client PC 102 displays the menu screen 900 when login is performed in step S401.

  In step S403, the client PC 102 selects the application waiting 902 by a user operation.

  In step S404, the client PC 102 displays a reapplication list screen 1200 (see FIG. 17). The re-application list screen 1200 corresponds to a record whose application status 504 of the mail information table 500 is 2.

  In step S405, the client PC 102 selects the record 1201 by a user operation. In the illustrated example, the mail B is selected, but the same operation is performed even when the other is selected.

  In step S406, the client PC 102 detects that the selection 1202 has been pressed by a user operation.

  In step S407, the client PC 102 displays a printing method selection screen 1300 (see FIG. 18).

  In step S408, the client PC 102 determines whether all prints 1301 or changed prints 1302 are pressed by a user operation. If all prints 1301 are pressed, the process proceeds to step S107, and the changed prints 1302 are pressed. If so, the process proceeds to step S409.

  In step S409, the client PC 102 transmits the mail information selected by the user operation to the attached data analysis server 104.

  In step S410, the attached data analysis server 104 receives the mail information transmitted in step S409.

  In step S411, the attached data analysis server 104 makes an inquiry to the mail information table 500 based on the mail information received in step S410.

  In step S412, the attached data analysis server 104 acquires the corresponding mail and attached data as a result of the inquiry in step S411. In the illustrated example, a record corresponding to the mail B is acquired.

  In step S413, the attached data analysis server 104 performs a change data print preparation process (see FIG. 8).

  In step S 414, the attached data analysis server 104 transmits the changed print data (a reprint data list to be described later) to the multifunction device 106.

  Each print data may be configured to include a mail ID, or a mail ID is stored in association with a job ID issued to uniquely identify the print data, and each print data has a job ID. A configuration including this may be used. Alternatively, the print data may include a job ID and a mail ID.

  In step S415, the multi-function peripheral 106 receives the change print data transmitted in step S414.

  In step S416, the multi-function peripheral 106 prints the changed print data received in step S415.

  In step S 417, the multifunction device 106 transmits a print completion notification to the attached data analysis server 104. At this time, the notification including the mail ID may be performed, or the notification including the job ID may be performed. Further, notification may be performed including the job ID and the mail ID. Which method is applied conforms to the method described above in step S414.

  In step S418, the attached data analysis server 104 receives the print completion notification transmitted in step S418.

  In step S419, the attached data analysis server 104 transmits a change data print completion notification to the client PC.

  In step S420, the client PC 102 receives the change data print completion notification transmitted in step S419.

  In step S421, the client PC 102 displays a mail attachment data change print screen 1400 (see FIG. 19).

  In step S422, when the OK 1401 is pressed by a user operation, the client PC 102 ends this process.

  Next, the changed print preparation process will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. This process is executed by the attached data analysis server 104.

  In step S501, the mail information table 500 and the attached data information table 600 are inquired to obtain corresponding data. In the case of the illustrated example, records 505, 604, and 605 corresponding to mail B (that is, mail ID M0002) are acquired, and the data is listed as a print list.

  In step S502, it is determined whether or not there is data in the list created in step S501. If it is determined that there is data, the process proceeds to step S503. If it is determined that there is no data, the process proceeds to step S507.

  In step S503, one record is acquired from the top of the list created in step S501.

  In step S504, the record acquired in step S503 is converted into a format printable by the multi-function peripheral 106. For example, the acquired record is converted into a PDF file.

  In step S505, the record converted in step S504 is added to the comparison list. The comparison list is held in memory.

  In step S506, the record acquired in step S503 is deleted from the list. After the deletion, the process of step S502 is continued.

  In step S507, processing is performed when there are no more records in the list in step S502. Print data registered at the time of the first application is acquired from the print data information table 700. In the illustrated example, all records whose mail ID 702 corresponding to the mail B is M0002 are acquired.

  In step S508, the print data acquired in step S507 is listed. This list is a print data list. The print data list is held on the memory.

  In step S509, it is determined whether or not there is a record in the comparison list. If it is determined that there is a record, the process proceeds to step S510. If it is determined that there is no record, the process ends.

  In step S510, one record is acquired from the top of the comparison list.

  In step S511, it is determined whether there is print data in the print data list. If it is determined that there is print data, the process proceeds to step S512. If it is determined that there is no print data, the process proceeds to step S515.

  In step S512, one print data is acquired from the top of the print data list. In step S513, it is determined whether the record acquired in step S510 is different from the print data acquired in step S512. When it determines, the process of step S511 is performed, and when it determines with it being the same, step S514 is performed.

  As for whether or not they are different, the existing technology is applied. For example, it may be determined whether or not they are different by comparing the images.

  In step S514, the top record in the comparison list is deleted from the list. After deletion, step S509 is executed.

  In step S515, the record acquired in step S510 is added to the reprint data list.

  As described above, the reason why the above-described processing is performed at the time of re-application is, for example, a case where there is a defect in order processing and a return occurs.

  The person in charge will check the reason for return, correct the deficiency, and reapply, but if you print all emails and attachments after correction, paper documents that have not been changed from the previous application will also be printed Waste of paper will occur.

  On the other hand, if the person in charge checks the emails and attachments printed in the previous application one by one and tries to print only the files that have changed, it takes time and effort to check.

In order to solve this kind of problem, it takes a lot of time and effort to save paper, or to print everything to save time and waste paper. In addition, the above processing is performed at the time of re-application.
<Modification>

  In the embodiment, when print data is transmitted to the multi-function peripheral 106, the print data is immediately printed by the multi-function peripheral 106. However, in a modified example, after the print data is stored in the multi-function peripheral 106, the user combines the print data. A configuration in which print data stored in the machine 106 is selected and a print instruction is issued.

  In addition, in a modification, since the structure and process similar to embodiment are provided, the same structure and process are demonstrated using the same code | symbol, and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  The multi-function peripheral 106 registers the print data received in steps S113 and S415 as a print job. In step S415, a new print job is registered separately from the print job related to the original application already registered. At the time of registration, registration is performed so that the approver becomes the owner of the print job.

  Then, the multifunction device 106 transmits to the attached data analysis server 104 that the print job is registered but is not yet printed.

  Then, the application status of the mail information table 500 is stored as unprinted based on the mail ID.

  When this result is displayed on the application waiting list screen 1000, as shown in FIG. 24, an unapplied item and an applied but not printed item are identified and displayed. If the print status 1003 is unapplied, it is a record that has not been applied yet, and if the print status 1003 is not printed, an application has been made but the approver has not printed. ing.

  Then, when the approver logs in by inserting an IC card into the multifunction device 106, the job list screen 1900 shown in FIG. 25 is displayed, and the print job registered by the approver who has logged in is displayed. Is displayed in a list.

  On the job list screen 1900, a list of print jobs of the logged-in user is displayed in the job display area 1901. For each print job, whether all attached data is printed or a change amount is displayed. Whether only the attached data is to be printed is identified and displayed on the print attribute 1902.

  When the user selects a job displayed in the job display area 1901 and presses the print button 1904, the selected job is printed in step S114 and step S416, and the subsequent processing proceeds.

  Although a print job is registered in the multifunction device 106, if the print job is registered in the attached data analysis server 104 and login is performed in any multifunction device 106, the registered login is performed. A configuration in which a user's print job is displayed on the job list screen 1900 may be adopted.

  As described above, according to the present invention, by efficiently printing the file attached to the application document, it is possible to reduce the work load required for printing the attached file of the user.

  Although the embodiments have been described in detail above, the present invention can take an embodiment as, for example, a system, an apparatus, a method, a program, or a storage medium, and specifically includes a plurality of devices. The present invention may be applied to a system that performs the above, or may be applied to an apparatus that includes one device.

  It should be noted that the configuration of various data and the configuration and contents of the various data described above are not limited to this, and it is needless to say that the various data are configured according to applications and purposes.

  Needless to say, the present invention can also be applied to a case where the present invention is achieved by supplying a program to a system or apparatus. In this case, by reading a storage medium storing a program represented by software for achieving the present invention into the system or apparatus, the system or apparatus can enjoy the effects of the present invention.

  Furthermore, by downloading and reading a program represented by software for achieving the present invention from a server, database, etc. on a network using a communication program, the system or apparatus can enjoy the effects of the present invention. It becomes.

  In addition, all the structures which combined each embodiment mentioned above and its modification are also included in this invention.

100 Information processing system 102 Client PC
104 Attached data analysis server 106 MFP 201 CPU
202 RAM
203 ROM
204 System bus 205 Input controller 206 Video controller 207 Memory controller 208 Communication I / F (interface) controller 209 Keyboard 210 CRT
211 External memory 301 CPU
302 RAM
303 ROM
304 HDD
305 Network I / F
306 MODEM
307 Operation unit I / F
308 Operation unit 309 System bus 310 RIP
311 Printer I / F
312 Printer 313 Scanner I / F
314 Scanner 315 Image bus 316 Controller unit 317 Image processing unit 318 External I / F
319 card reader

Claims (9)

An application acceptance means for accepting an application with a file attached;
A print requesting unit for requesting the printing apparatus to print a file attached to the application received by the application receiving unit;
An approval means for approving the application;
An information processing apparatus comprising: The application accepting means accepts a re-application regarding the application,
Storage means for storing information relating to an attached file for which a print request has been made by the print request means;
The print request unit prints the attached file changed at the time of the re-application based on the file attached to the re-application and information on the attached file stored in the storage unit. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information processing apparatus requests the printing apparatus. The application accepting unit accepts a selection of whether to print all attached files or to change the attached files changed at the time of re-application when the re-application is performed,
If the print requesting unit accepts the selection to print all the attached files, the printing request unit requests the printing apparatus to print all the files attached to the re-application, while changing the re-application. 3. The information according to claim 2, wherein when a selection to print the attached file is received, the printing apparatus is requested to print the attached file changed at the time of the re-application. Processing equipment. Storing print data of the attached file in the printing apparatus that has received the print request;
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a receiving unit configured to receive an unprinted notification from the printing apparatus. An information processing system in which a client terminal for performing an application, an information processing apparatus that controls printing related to the application, and a printing apparatus that performs printing related to the application are connected via a network,
The client terminal is
It has an application means to apply with a file attached,
The information processing apparatus includes:
Application accepting means for accepting the application applied by the application means;
A print requesting unit for requesting the printing apparatus to print a file attached to the application received by the application receiving unit;
With
The printing apparatus includes:
Approval means for approving the application,
An information processing system comprising: A method of controlling an information processing apparatus that issues a print instruction to a printing apparatus,
The information processing apparatus includes:
An application acceptance step for accepting an application with a file attached;
A print request step for requesting the printing apparatus to print a file attached to the application received by the application reception step;
An approval step for approving the application;
A method for controlling an information processing apparatus, characterized by: A program that can be read and executed by an information processing apparatus that issues a print instruction to a printing apparatus,
The information processing apparatus;
An application acceptance means for accepting an application with a file attached;
A print requesting unit for requesting the printing apparatus to print a file attached to the application received by the application receiving unit;
An approval means for approving the application;
A program characterized by making it function. A method for controlling an information processing system in which a client terminal for performing an application, an information processing apparatus that controls printing related to the application, and a printing apparatus that performs printing related to the application are connected via a network,
The client terminal is
Execute the application step to apply with the file attached,
The information processing apparatus includes:
An application accepting step for accepting the application applied in the application step;
A print request step for requesting a printing apparatus to print a file attached to the application received in the application reception step;
Run
The printing apparatus includes:
An approval step for approving the application;
The control method of the information processing system characterized by performing this. There is a program that can be read and executed by an information processing system in which a client terminal for performing an application, an information processing apparatus that controls printing related to the application, and a printing apparatus that performs printing related to the application are connected via a network ,
The client terminal is
It functions as an application means to apply with a file attached,
The information processing apparatus;
Application accepting means for accepting the application applied by the application means;
A print requesting unit for requesting the printing apparatus to print a file attached to the application received by the application receiving unit;
To function,
The printing device;
Approval means for approving the application,
A program characterized by functioning as

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