Image processing device and control method for image processing device

Abstract

To provide an image processing device or the like that can improve user convenience when using the image retention function. [Solution] An image processing apparatus that holds a print job and applies a predetermined process, comprising an output unit and a control unit, wherein the output unit outputs a management screen that receives a selection instruction for the predetermined process to be applied to the print job and an individual screen that receives input of individual setting instructions corresponding to the predetermined process, and the control unit controls the output of the individual screen in accordance with the selection instruction for the management screen.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an image processing apparatus and the like. [Background Art]

[0002] Some image processing apparatuses such as multifunction peripherals are provided with a function (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a hold function) that holds print data received as a print job, a document read by a scanner device, facsimile reception data, and the like, and performs predetermined processing thereon.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses that even if a command received together with print data is a command indicating that the print data is to be stored in a second storage area, when the image forming apparatus is operating in a forced hold mode, the print data is held in a first storage area for forced holding. [Prior Art Documents] [Patent Documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2015-104867 [Summary of Invention] [Problem to be Solved by Invention]

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an image processing apparatus and the like that can improve user convenience with respect to use of the hold function. [Means for Solving Problem]

[0006] To solve the above problems, the image processing apparatus according to the present disclosure is an image processing apparatus that holds a print job and applies a predetermined process, comprising an output unit and a control unit, wherein the output unit outputs a management screen that receives an instruction to select the predetermined process to be applied to the print job and an individual screen that receives input of individual setting instructions corresponding to the predetermined process, and the control unit controls the output of the individual screen in accordance with the selection instruction to the management screen.

[0007] Furthermore, the control method for an image processing apparatus according to this disclosure is a control method for an image processing apparatus that holds a received print job and applies a predetermined process to it, characterized in that it outputs a management screen that accepts input of a selection instruction for the predetermined process to be applied to the print job, and an individual screen that accepts input of individual setting instructions corresponding to the predetermined process, and controls the output of the individual screen according to the selection instruction for the management screen.

[0008] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide an image processing device, etc., that can improve user convenience when using the retention function. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is an external perspective view illustrating the overall configuration of the multifunction printer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a functional configuration diagram of a multifunction device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This diagram illustrates the configuration of the settings table used to register and manage the hold function. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8]It is a diagram for explaining an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a diagram for explaining an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] It is a diagram for explaining an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] It is a diagram for explaining an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a diagram for explaining an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a diagram for explaining an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] It is a diagram for explaining an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 15] It is a diagram for explaining an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 16] It is a diagram for explaining an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 17] It is a diagram for explaining an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 18] It is a diagram for explaining device cloning according to the second embodiment. [Figure 19] It is a diagram for explaining the third embodiment. [Figure 20] It is a diagram for explaining the third embodiment. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. The following embodiments are examples for explaining the present disclosure, and the technical contents described in the claims are not limited to the following description.

[0011] Various hold functions are known as one aspect of the hold function.

[0012] A document filing function, which is one aspect of the hold function, is a function that holds print data received as a print job (also referred to as a printer job), original document data read by a scanner device, facsimile reception data, and the like in an image processing apparatus, and performs printing, transmission, downloading, and the like. A print release function, which is one aspect of the hold function, is a function that prints print data held in an image processing apparatus set as a parent machine by an image processing apparatus on a network set as a child machine. A My Folder print function, which is one aspect of the hold function, is a function that automatically generates a My Folder for each user based on a user name, a computer name, and the like included in print data received from a terminal device such as a PC, and stores the print data in the generated My Folder.

[0013] In order to enable these hold functions, it is necessary to restrict job execution so that a job is not immediately executed in response to reception of data such as print data. Generally, a management screen for managing job execution restrictions is configured such that when job execution restrictions are enabled, it is possible to accept an input of an instruction to select a hold function to be applied.

[0014] On the other hand, settings for each hold function are performed via a setting screen provided for each hold function (hereinafter sometimes referred to as an individual screen). A user who makes settings for a hold function displays an individual screen corresponding to a desired hold function, and makes various settings for the hold function.

[0015] However, conventionally, the content selected on the management screen is not configured to be reflected on the individual screen, so it has been difficult for a user to grasp which hold function is enabled by the job execution restriction via the individual screen.

[0016] In this disclosure, regarding the use of the retention function, an image processing device, etc., that can improve user convenience by making it easier to understand which retention function can be used to execute a job is realized in the following embodiment.

[0017] [1 First Embodiment] In the first embodiment, a multifunction device as an image processing device according to the present disclosure will be described. The multifunction device is an image processing device that can perform jobs such as copying, scanning, faxing, and sending emails in a single housing, and can, for example, print images (color images or monochrome images) based on print data received as a print job onto a medium such as paper.

[0018] [1.1 Functional Configuration of the Multifunction Printer] Figure 1 is an external perspective view illustrating the overall configuration of the multifunction printer 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction printer 10.

[0019] The multifunction device 10 includes a control unit 11, an output unit 13, an operation input unit 15, a communication unit 17, an image forming unit 19, an image reading unit 21, and a storage unit 23.

[0020] The control unit 11 comprehensively controls the multifunction device 10. The control unit 11 can be composed of one or more processing units (such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a DSP (Digital Signal Processor)). The control unit 11 realizes the various functions performed by the multifunction device 10 by reading and executing various programs stored in the memory unit 23. The control unit 11 may be configured as a System on a Chip (SoC) having multiple functions from among those described below. The control unit 11 may also be composed of one or more control circuits.

[0021] The output unit 13 outputs screen information such as a management screen that accepts instructions for selecting a hold function to be applied to a print job, and individual screens that accept input of individual setting instructions corresponding to the hold function. The output unit 13 can be configured as a display device such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, a micro-LED display, or a mini-LED display, which can display various information to the user. In addition to being configured as a display device, the output unit 13 according to this disclosure can also be configured as a web server that can output screen information of the management screen and individual screens via a web browser to a terminal device such as a PC that is the source of the print request (source of print data output).

[0022] The operation input unit 15 receives input from users and other parties, including operations and information. The operation input unit 15 can be configured with various input devices such as operation keys (hard keys, software keys, etc.) and buttons. The operation input unit 15 can also be configured as a touch panel display that allows input via the output unit 13. In this case, the input method to the touch panel display can be, for example, a resistive touch method, an infrared touch method, an electromagnetic induction method, or a capacitive touch method.

[0023] The communication unit 17 includes wired / wireless network communication interfaces for communicating with other terminal devices such as PCs via a network NW such as a LAN (Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), the Internet, telephone lines, or fax lines. The wireless network communication interface may include, for example, short-range wireless communication interfaces such as Bluetooth®, Wi-Fi®, or IrDA.

[0024] The image forming unit 19 forms an image on a medium such as paper based on print data. The image forming unit 19 feeds paper from the paper feeding unit 25, forms an image on the paper based on the print data, and then discharges the paper to the paper discharge unit 27. The image forming unit 19 can be configured, for example, by a laser printer using an electrophotographic method. In this case, the image forming unit 19 performs image formation using toner supplied from toner cartridges (not shown) corresponding to each toner color (e.g., cyan, magenta, yellow, black).

[0025] The image reading unit 21 generates scan data by scanning and reading the image of the document to be read. The image reading unit 21 can be configured as a scanner device equipped with an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled device) or CIS (Contact image sensor). There are no restrictions on the configuration of the image reading unit 21, as long as it generates scan data consisting of RGB (R: Red, G: Green, B: Blue) analog signals by reading the reflected light image from the document image with the image sensor. The image reading unit 21 can also be configured as an interface that can acquire image files in file formats such as TIFF, BMP, and JPEG stored in a storage device such as a USB memory, or image data transmitted from other terminal devices such as a PC.

[0026] The memory unit 23 is one or more storage devices that store various programs and data necessary for the operation of the multifunction printer 10. The memory unit 23 can be composed of storage devices such as RAM (Random Access Memory), SSD (Solid State Drive), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), and ROM (Read Only Memory).

[0027] In the first embodiment, the storage unit 23 stores the control program 231, the output control program 232, and the job program 233, and reserves a job storage area 234.

[0028] The control program 231 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when comprehensively controlling the multifunction device 10. After reading the control program 231, the control unit 11 controls the operation of hardware such as the output unit 13, operation input unit 15, communication unit 17, image forming unit 19, and image reading unit 21.

[0029] The output control program 232 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when controlling the output of the output unit 13 or the screens displayed on the operation input unit 15 configured as a touch panel display. After reading the output control program 232, the control unit 11 controls the output of the operation screens displayed on the output unit 13 (operation input unit 15) (for example, a management screen that accepts selection instructions for the hold function, or individual screens that accept input of individual setting instructions according to the hold function).

[0030] The job program 233 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when executing various jobs, such as print jobs, copy jobs, scan jobs, fax jobs, and email sending jobs. After reading the job program 233, the control unit 11 switches the device mode of the multifunction printer 10 to the job mode for executing each job and executes the job for which it has received an execution instruction.

[0031] The job program 233 according to the first embodiment includes a handling program 2331 and a hold function program 2333. The control unit 11, upon reading the handling program 2331, receives instructions via the management screen regarding whether or not to restrict the execution of print jobs, and, if the restriction of print job execution is enabled, the selection of a hold function to be enabled. Furthermore, the control unit 11, upon reading the handling program 2331, comprehensively manages and controls each function implemented by the hold function program 2333 by performing exclusive output control of individual screens in accordance with selection instructions to the management screen, and output control of the management screen based on setting instructions to individual screens.

[0032] The retention function program 2333 is a program that realizes the retention function according to this disclosure when read by the control unit 11. In this disclosure, the following forms of the retention function that can be realized are described: a document filing function, a print release function, and a My Folder print function.

[0033] The job storage area 234 is a storage area that stores print jobs to be kept when the print job execution restriction is enabled. In addition to print jobs, the job storage area 234 may also store information necessary for the multifunction device 10 to execute print jobs (for example, identification information such as a job ID and job name to uniquely identify the print job, connection information to the multifunction device 10, print setting information such as the number of copies, number of pages, paper size, page layout, color management, font, and finishing settings, and date and time information related to the date and time of job execution (sending date and time)).

[0034] [1.2 Processing Flow] [1.2.1 Overall Processing Flow] Next, the processing flow according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating the overall processing flow related to the output of a management screen that receives a selection instruction for a hold function to be applied to a print job, and individual screens that receive input for individual setting instructions corresponding to the hold function. The processing described in Figure 3 will be described as a process executed by the control unit 11 by reading the control program 231, the output control program 232, and the job program 233 (handling program 2331, hold function program 2333), and the form in which screen information such as the management screen and individual screens is output (displayed) on the display device equipped with the multifunction device 10 will be described.

[0035] First, the control unit 11 determines whether or not it has received a user instruction to display the system settings screen, which will be described later (step S100). The control unit 11 can determine whether or not it has received a user instruction to display the system settings screen, for example, by receiving an instruction to select a settings display button provided on a home screen (not shown). If it determines that it has received an instruction to display the system settings screen, the control unit 11 displays the system settings screen (step S100; Yes → step S102). If it determines that it has not received an instruction to display the system settings screen, the control unit 11 waits until it receives an instruction to display the screen (step S100; No).

[0036] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether or not it has received a command from the user to display the management screen (step S104). If the control unit 11 determines that it has received a command from the user to display the management screen, it determines whether or not the print job execution restriction is enabled (step S104; Yes → step S106). If it determines that the print job execution restriction is enabled, the control unit 11 determines which of the following functions—document filing function, print release function, or My Folder Print function—is currently enabled by referring to the setting table, for example, as shown in the following figure (step S106; Yes → step S108). If it determines that the print job execution restriction is disabled, the control unit 11 omits the processing related to step S108 and proceeds to step S110 (step S106; No → step S110).

[0037] If the control unit 11 performs a determination process for the hold function in step S108, it displays the management screen so that the hold function that is set to be enabled can be identified based on the determination result. On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines in step S106 that the print job execution restriction is set to disabled, it displays the management screen without displaying the identification of the hold function (step S110).

[0038] The control unit 11 then determines whether it has received a request from the user to change the currently set retention function via the management screen (step S112). If it determines that it has received a request to change the retention function, the control unit 11 changes the currently set retention function to the retention function for which the change request was received and registers it in the setting table (step S112; Yes → step S114). Next, the control unit 11 updates and displays the management screen so that the registered retention function can be identified, and then terminates the process (step S116). If it determines that it has not received a request to change the retention function, the control unit 11 continues to display the management screen (step S112; No → step S110).

[0039] By the way, in step S104, if the control unit 11 determines that it has not received a command from the user to display the management screen, it determines whether or not it has received a command to display an individual screen related to any of the retention functions: the document filing function, the print release function, and the My Folder print function (step S104; No → step S118).

[0040] If the control unit 11 determines that it has received a command to display an individual screen, it refers to the contents of the setting table and determines which of the following retention functions is currently enabled: the document filing function, the print release function, or the My Folder print function (Step S118; Yes → Step S120). The control unit 11 then determines whether the retention function related to the individual screen for which the display command was received in Step S118 is different from the currently enabled retention function and is a retention function that is subject to exclusive processing (Step S122). If the control unit 11 determines that it has not received a command to display an individual screen, it returns to Step S102 and continues to display the system settings screen (Step S118; No → Step S102).

[0041] If the control unit 11 determines that the hold function for an individual screen for which a display instruction was received in step S118 is subject to exclusive processing, it performs exclusive display control indicating that the hold function for that individual screen is unavailable, displays the individual screen, and then terminates the process (step S122; Yes → step S124 → step S126).

[0042] On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the hold function for the individual screen for which a display instruction was received in step S118 is the same as the hold function currently set to be enabled and is not subject to exclusive processing, the control unit 11 displays the individual screen without performing exclusive display control and terminates the process (step S122; No → step S126).

[0043] Here, an example of the configuration of a settings table for registering and managing the hold function will be explained using Figure 4. In Figure 4, an example of a settings table 100 in table format is explained as a means of registering and managing the hold function, but the means of registering and managing the hold function is not limited to a table format, and may also be in the form of registration and management in a database format, or as an argument directly referenced by the handling program 2331 or its functions.

[0044] The configuration table 100 illustrated in Figure 4 includes the function (process name), configuration file, update date and time, and update user as registration and management items, and these items are linked to the default setting, current setting, and previous setting, respectively.

[0045] The function (process name) represents one of the following retention functions: document filing function, print release function, and My Folder print function. The configuration file represents a configuration file in JSON, XML, or text format that describes the settings for each retention function. The update date and time represents the date and time when the retention function was updated, and the update user represents the user information of the user who updated the retention function (the user logged in to the multifunction device 10).

[0046] The default setting refers to the retention setting that is pre-configured as an initial value at the time of factory shipment, etc. Figure 4 shows an example where the retention function is set to "Document Filing" and the setting file is set to "file_d.json" as the default setting. Even if the settings related to the retention setting are changed, the default setting can be restored by initializing the multifunction printer 10, etc.

[0047] The current settings represent the currently enabled retention settings. Figure 4 shows that the current settings are: retention function is "print release", the setting file is "file_p.json", the update date and time for the current settings is "2025 / 01 / 30 PM12:30", and the user who updated the retention function is "User01".

[0048] The previous settings represent the retained settings that were in place before the current settings were updated. Figure 4 shows that the previous settings included a retained function of "My Folder Print", a setting file of "file_m.json", an update date and time of the previous settings update of "2024 / 12 / 25 PM3:00", and a user who updated the retained function of "User01".

[0049] The control unit 11 can determine which hold function is currently enabled by referring to the current settings item in the setting table 100. Furthermore, if changes are made to the settings of the hold function, the control unit 11 can edit and register the contents of the setting file, thereby enabling the hold function to reflect the changes and displaying each individual screen.

[0050] [1.2.2 Flow of processing related to inputting setting instructions via individual screens] Next, the process flow related to inputting setting instructions via individual screens will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 5. The process described in Figure 5 will also be explained as a process executed by the control unit 11 by reading the control program 231, output control program 232, and job program 233 (handling program 2331, hold function program 2333), etc. Furthermore, Figure 5 will be explained assuming that in step S126 of Figure 3, an individual screen that accepts setting input for one of the following functions—document filing function, print release function, or my folder print function—is displayed.

[0051] The control unit 11 determines whether or not it has received a setting instruction via the displayed individual screen (step S126 → step S200). If it determines that it has received a setting instruction, it determines whether or not the received setting instruction is a compulsory instruction that forcibly enables or disables the hold function (step S200; Yes → step S202). If the control unit 11 determines that it has not received a setting instruction, it continues to display the individual screen until it receives the setting instruction (step S200; No → step S126).

[0052] If the control unit 11 determines that the received setting instruction is a mandatory instruction, it determines whether the mandatory instruction is an effective instruction that forcibly enables a specific retention process (step S202; Yes → step S204). If the control unit 11 determines that the mandatory instruction is an effective instruction, it enables the corresponding retention function (step S204; Yes → step S206). On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the mandatory instruction is not an effective instruction, it disables the corresponding retention function (step S204; No → step S210).

[0053] Then, the control unit 11 registers the enabled or disabled retention function in the setting table, updates the management screen, and terminates the process (step S114 → step S116).

[0054] Incidentally, in step S202, if the control unit 11 determines that the received setting instruction is not a mandatory instruction, it reflects the content of the received setting instruction related to the hold function. Then, the control unit 11 registers the hold function to which the setting instruction has been reflected in the setting table, updates the management screen, and terminates the process (step S202; No → step S208 → step S114 → step S116).

[0055] [1.3 Example of Operation] [1.3.1 About the Output (Display) Screen] An example of operation according to the first embodiment will now be described. Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display configuration of the system setting screen W10 according to the first embodiment. The system setting screen W10 is a setting screen displayed by the control unit 11 in response to a selection instruction for the "System Setting Mode" tab included in the setting mode list L10, which is selectable at the top of the screen.

[0056] The system settings screen W10 is configured to accept settings related to system settings, such as home screen settings, copy settings, printer settings, fax image transmission settings, document filing settings, common settings, network settings, security settings, energy saving settings, system management settings, image quality adjustment settings, and initial setup settings. The control unit 11 displays the setting items corresponding to the settings selected by the user in the setting item menu SM10 located on the left side of the diagram.

[0057] Figure 6 shows an example of the security settings item I10 and printer settings item I12 displayed in the settings menu SM10. Security settings item I10 includes security-related settings such as password settings, basic settings I100, and port settings. On the other hand, printer settings item I12 includes printer-related settings such as basic settings, print release settings I120, and My Folder print settings I122. Users can perform various settings by selecting the desired settings item.

[0058] Figure 6 illustrates an example of the display configuration of the default setting screen W100, which the control unit 11 displays as a management screen in response to a selection instruction for the basic setting I100 included in security setting item I10.

[0059] The basic settings screen W100 includes the printer job execution restriction selection area R10, the hold function selection area R12, the register (U) button B10, the update (R) button B12, and the back button B14.

[0060] The printer job execution restriction selection area R10 is an area that accepts the selection of whether or not to restrict the execution of print jobs at the time of receipt. The printer job execution restriction selection area R10 is provided with a checkbox that accepts the selection instruction to enable printer job execution restriction. When the checkbox is checked, the control unit 11 restricts the execution of printer jobs at the time of receipt.

[0061] The retention function selection area R12 is the area where you select the retention function to use. In Figure 6, it is shown that you can select one of the following retention functions: document filing, My Folder Print, or print release. Note that selection via the retention function selection area R12 is possible when print job execution restrictions are enabled. In Figure 6, the checkbox in the printer job execution restriction selection area R10 is not checked (print job execution restrictions are disabled), so the retention function selection area R12 is grayed out, indicating that you cannot select a retention function. The "restriction action" included in the retention function selection area R12 is a pull-down menu that accepts instructions to select the restriction action according to the function to be used. When document filing is selected as the retention function (example in Figure 6), you can choose either "force retention" or "prohibit jobs other than hold" (the default value is "force retention"). When print release is selected as the retention function, "Force Retention" is grayed out, and "Restricted Actions" is displayed as active. If printer job execution restrictions are disabled, both "Restricted Actions" and the corresponding pull-down menu are grayed out.

[0062] The Register (U) button B10 is a button that accepts the instruction to register the selection made on the basic settings screen W100. The Update (R) button B12 is a button that accepts the instruction to update the hold setting when the currently set hold function is changed to another hold function, etc. The Back button B14 is a button that accepts the instruction to display the menu list. When the instruction to select the Back button B14 is received, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the settings list screen (menu list) related to system settings such as home screen settings.

[0063] [1.3.2 Regarding output control of individual screens corresponding to the hold function that receives selection instructions via the administration screen] Figure 7 illustrates examples of operation before and after user input of selection instructions in the printer job execution restriction selection area R10 and the hold function selection area R12 of the basic settings screen W100, which is an example of a management screen as shown in Figure 6. Figure 7(a) shows an example of operation before user input of selection instructions. On the other hand, Figure 7(b) shows the state after the user has checked checkbox C10 in the printer job execution restriction selection area R10, and the hold function has been changed from the document filing function to the My Folder Print function via the hold function selection area R12.

[0064] When checkbox C10 in the printer job execution restriction selection area R10 is checked, and print job execution restrictions are enabled, the grayed-out display in the hold function selection area R12 is removed, and the hold function becomes selectable. The user can then select the desired hold function via the now selectable hold function selection area R12.

[0065] Figure 8(a) illustrates an example of the display configuration of the default My Folder Print Settings screen W102, which the control unit 11 displays as a separate screen in response to a selection instruction for the My Folder Print Settings I122 included in the printer setting item I12, when the print job execution restriction exemplified in Figure 7(a) is disabled. On the My Folder Print Settings screen W102, the pull-down menu P10, which accepts an instruction to enable or disable the My Folder Print function, is displayed in an active state, indicating that it is possible to select whether to enable or disable the My Folder Print function (the initial value is "disabled").

[0066] On the other hand, Figure 8(b) shows an example of the display configuration of the My Folder Print settings screen W102 when the checkbox C10 in the printer job execution restriction selection area R10 is checked on the basic settings screen W100, and the retaining function is changed from the document filing function to the My Folder Print function via the retaining function selection area R12. The selection instructions for the basic settings screen W100 as a management screen are reflected in the display content of the My Folder Print settings screen W102 as an individual screen. Therefore, in the My Folder Print settings screen W102 exemplified in Figure 8(b), the grayed-out display of the setting area R14 related to the My Folder Print function settings, including the pull-down menu P10 that accepts the selection instruction to enable / disable the My Folder Print function, is cleared, and settings can be made in the said setting area R14.

[0067] [1.3.3 Regarding output control of individual screens corresponding to retention functions other than the retention function that receives selection instructions via the administration screen] Next, we will describe how to control the output of individual screens corresponding to other hold functions that are different from the hold function selected via the management screen. Figure 9(a) shows an example of operation when the checkbox C10 in the printer job execution restriction selection area R10 is checked, and the document filing function is enabled as a hold function, starting from the default setting state of the basic settings screen W100 as exemplified in Figure 7(a). Figure 9(b) shows an example of the display configuration of the My Folder Print Settings screen W102 as an individual screen displayed by the control unit 11 when a selection instruction for My Folder Print Settings I122, which is included in the printer setting item I12, is received in the selection state of the basic settings screen W100 shown in Figure 9(a).

[0068] As shown in Figure 9(b), the setting area R14 related to the My Folder Print function is grayed out, and settings cannot be made in this setting area R14. In this case, the My Folder Print function cannot be enabled because setting input via the My Folder Print setting screen W102 is restricted, and a message M10 indicating that settings from the basic settings screen W100 are required to enable it (for example, "Error: To use this function, you need to change the setting in [Restrict printer jobs].") may be displayed to alert the user. In this case, it is also possible to provide means to facilitate screen transitions to the basic settings screen W100, such as setting a hyperlink that accepts a screen transition instruction to the basic settings screen W100 when the string "[Restrict printer jobs]" is entered.

[0069] Figure 10 shows an example of operation when the document filing function is selected as the retaining function in the retaining function selection area R12. Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display configuration of the print release setting screen W104 that the control unit 11 displays as an individual screen when the document filing function (Figure 10) or the My Folder Print function (Figure 7(b)) is selected as the retaining function and the control unit 11 receives a selection instruction for the print release setting I120 included in the printer setting item I12.

[0070] The print release settings screen W104 illustrated in Figure 11 includes a settings area R16 that accepts settings related to the print release function. As illustrated in Figure 10, when a function other than the print release function is selected as a hold function (enabled), the master unit settings area in settings area R16 is grayed out, and the master unit settings are disabled. At this time, a message M12 indicating that setting input via the master unit settings area is restricted (for example, “[Security Settings > Restrict Printer Jobs] restricts master unit settings.”) may be displayed to alert the user.

[0071] [1.3.4 Regarding output control of the individual screen corresponding to the retained function for which a release instruction has been received when a release instruction has been received for a retained function that was selected via the administration screen] Next, we will describe how the output of the individual screen corresponding to the retained function for which a release instruction has been received will be controlled when a release instruction is received for a retained function that has been selected via the management screen. Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation when the My Folder Print function is enabled as a retained function, and the My Folder Print function is released based on a release instruction accompanying the activation of the user authentication function for the multifunction device 10. When the user authentication function for the multifunction device 10 is enabled, the users who can use the multifunction device 10 will be limited to specific users (logged-in users). As a result, the usefulness of the My Folder Print function will be diminished, so simultaneous activation of the user authentication function and the My Folder Print function is prohibited. Note that if a function other than the My Folder Print function is enabled as a retained function, the release process accompanying the activation of the user authentication function will not be executed.

[0072] Figure 12(a) illustrates an example of the display configuration of the initial setup screen W200 after the user authentication function has been enabled. The initial setup screen W200 includes a message M14 that indicates that the My Folder Print function has been disabled due to the activation of the user authentication function ("Processed successfully. To enable the setting, please turn the multifunction printer off and on again. User authentication and My Folder Print settings cannot be enabled simultaneously, so the My Folder Print function setting has been changed to disabled."), and a restart button (C)B16 that accepts input for restarting the multifunction printer 10. When the user selects the restart button (C)B16, the control unit 11 performs the restart process for the multifunction printer 10.

[0073] Figure 12(b) shows an example of the display configuration of the basic settings screen W100 after the user authentication function is enabled. When the user authentication function is enabled, the checkbox C10 in the printer job execution restriction selection area R10 is unchecked. The other configurations can be the same as the basic settings screen W100 exemplified in Figure 7(a), so their explanation is omitted here. Figure 12(c) shows an example of the display configuration of the My Folder Print Settings screen W102 after the user authentication function is enabled. In the My Folder Print Settings screen W102 exemplified in Figure 12(c), a message M16 is displayed indicating that this function cannot be used ("This function cannot be used with the current authentication settings.") when the user authentication function is enabled. The other display contents can be the same as the My Folder Print Settings screen W102 exemplified in Figure 9(b), so their explanation is omitted here.

[0074] [1.3.5 Regarding the control of the management screen output when receiving instructions to set the retention function via an individual screen] Next, we will describe how the output of the management screen is controlled when a setting instruction for the hold function is received via an individual screen. Figure 13(a) illustrates an example of operation when the output of the basic settings screen W100 is in the default setting state, and the function to forcibly hold a job as a print release job regardless of user instruction is set from disabled to enabled via the forced instruction setting area R18 provided in the setting area R16 of the print release settings screen W104. The forced instruction setting area R18 includes a checkbox C12 as a specific setting value that accepts a setting instruction to forcibly enable the print release function. When the user checks the checkbox C12, the control unit 11 enables the execution restriction of print jobs and sets the print release function as the hold function, as shown in Figure 13(b).

[0075] On the other hand, Figure 14(a) illustrates an example of operation when the function to forcibly retain a print release job regardless of user instructions, via the forced instruction setting area R18 in the setting area R16 of the print release setting screen W104, is set from enabled to disabled. When the user unchecks the checkbox C12, the control unit 11 disables the print job execution restriction, sets the document filing function to its default state as the retain function, and grays out the retain function selection area R12, thereby making it impossible to select the retain function.

[0076] [1.3.6 Output control for individual screens corresponding to the hold function that receives selection instructions via the administration screen, with the application of specific settings enabled to output the individual screen] Next, we will describe a method of outputting an individual screen corresponding to a hold function that receives a selection instruction via the management screen, with the application of specific settings enabled. Figure 15(a) shows an example of operation when the print release function is selected as the hold function in the hold function selection area R12. Figure 15(b) is a diagram illustrating an example of the display configuration of the print release setting screen W104 that the control unit 11 displays as an individual screen after receiving a selection instruction for the print release setting I120 included in the printer setting item I12, when the print release function is selected as the hold function. In this case, the control unit 11 checks the checkbox C12 in the forced instruction setting area R18, enabling the function to forcibly hold the job as a print release job regardless of user instruction. Note that the master unit settings related to the print release function can be displayed grayed out until the master unit settings are enabled via the pull-down menu P12 provided in the master unit activation setting area R20.

[0077] [1.3.7 Output control when a selection instruction to disable print job execution restrictions is received via the management screen, which outputs the management screen with a specific retention function selected] Next, we will describe how, when a selection instruction to disable print job execution restrictions is received via the management screen, the management screen is output with a specific retention function selected. Figure 16(a) is an example of operation when the print release function is selected as the retention function in the retention function selection area R12, and is the same figure as Figure 15(a). From the state illustrated in Figure 16(a), when the user unchecks the checkbox C10 in the printer job execution restriction selection area R10, the control unit 11 changes the retention function from the print release function to the default setting, the document filing function, as shown in Figure 16(b), and then grays out the retention function selection area R12, making it impossible to select a retention function.

[0078] [1.3.8 Output control to restrict the output of the reservation function, which allows selection instructions to be entered via the management screen, depending on the security strength of user authentication] Next, we will describe an embodiment that restricts the output of the hold function, which can be selected via the management screen, depending on the security strength of user authentication. Figure 17(a) is an example in which, for example, when user authentication using a security level that uses a combination of login username and password is enabled, the My Folder Print function in the hold function selection area R12 is grayed out and cannot be selected.

[0079] On the other hand, Figure 17(b) shows an example where, for example, if user authentication at a high security level compliant with HCD cPP (Collaborative Protection Profile for Hardcopy Devices) is enabled, the print release function and the My Folder Print function cannot be enabled, and the display of options for the document filing function, print release function, and My Folder Print function in the retention function selection area R12 is restricted. In this way, it is possible to restrict the output of retention functions, which can be selected via the management screen, according to the security strength of user authentication, making user management based on security strength easier.

[0080] As described above, according to the first embodiment, exclusive output control of individual screens in response to selection instructions for the management screen, and output control of the management screen based on setting instructions for individual screens can be performed. Therefore, when using the hold function, it becomes easier to understand which hold function can be used to execute a job, thereby improving user convenience.

[0081] [2 Second Embodiment] The second embodiment is a configuration in which the configuration according to the first embodiment is applied to device cloning. Device cloning is a mechanism that saves the trouble of repeatedly performing the same settings for multiple multifunction devices by importing (copying) various setting information of a multifunction device (source) to another multifunction device (destination) via a recording medium such as a USB memory. By using device cloning, for example, the settings of the reservation function of the source multifunction device can be reflected (applied) to the destination multifunction device.

[0082] Figure 18(a) is a table summarizing the settings for print release (master unit settings), forced print release, and printer job execution restrictions on the source multifunction device. In Figure 18(a), the print release function (master unit settings), which accepts setting instructions via individual screens, is enabled, and the forced print release function is set to either disabled or enabled. Regarding printer job execution restrictions, which accept selection instructions via the management screen, this indicates that there is no setting information to be used for device cloning (diagonal line within the box).

[0083] Figure 18(b) is a table summarizing the settings related to printer job execution restrictions set on the destination multifunction device before importing the source settings information, the settings related to printer job execution restrictions after importing the settings information reflecting the imported settings information, and the print release (master unit settings).

[0084] As shown in Figure 18(b), if forced print release is disabled in the source system, there is no change in the printer job execution restriction settings (no restriction, document filing, prohibit job, or print release) before and after importing the configuration information. On the other hand, if forced print release is enabled in the source system, the printer job execution restriction settings after importing the configuration information will reflect the forced print release settings in the source system, and therefore all settings will be changed to print release.

[0085] Note that, after importing the settings from the source, the print release (master unit settings) will be configured to enable all settings except for the settings that restrict the execution of printer jobs before import (which prohibits document filing and jobs).

[0086] As described above, according to the second embodiment, settings related to the hold function, which are received via individual screens, can be reflected in the settings that receive selection instructions via the management screen. Therefore, even if the settings related to printer job execution restrictions cannot be obtained during device cloning, the settings for the hold function on the source multifunction device can be reflected (applied) to the destination multifunction device.

[0087] [3 Third Embodiment] In the first embodiment, a configuration was described in which the output of individual screens related to various retention functions is controlled in response to selection instructions on the management screen in the main unit settings of the multifunction device 10 as an image processing device. In the third embodiment, a process executed by the multifunction device 10 when the main unit settings of the multifunction device 10 and the settings of the printer driver (hereinafter simply referred to as the driver) provided by a terminal device such as a PC are inconsistent will be described.

[0088] Figure 19 is a table summarizing the correspondence between the main unit settings of the multifunction printer 10 and the driver settings. In Figure 19, the main unit settings of the multifunction printer 10 are as follows: (Setting 1): "Restrict printer jobs" is disabled (see Figure 6). (Setting 2): "Restrict printer jobs" is enabled and "Document Filing" is selected as the function to be used, and the restriction action is specified as "Force retention". (Setting 3): "Restrict printer jobs" is enabled and "Document Filing" is selected as the function to be used, and the restriction action is specified as "Prohibit jobs other than hold". (Setting 4): "Restrict printer jobs" is enabled and "My Folder Print" is selected as the function to use. (Setting 5): This section describes the five configurations in which "Restrict printer jobs" is enabled and "Print Release" is selected as the function to be used. It also describes the configurations in which the driver settings are "Not specified," "Document Filing," and "Print Release" for the above settings (Setting 1) to (Setting 5).

[0089] (1) About setting 1 If the main unit setting of the multifunction printer 10 is setting 1 and the driver setting is "unspecified", the multifunction printer 10 will execute the received printer job without holding it. Also, if the driver setting is "document filing", the multifunction printer 10 will process the received printer job as "document filing" according to the driver setting. Furthermore, if the driver setting is "print release", the multifunction printer 10 will process the received printer job as "print release" according to the driver setting. If the main unit setting is setting 1, the multifunction printer 10 will process the received printer job according to the driver setting.

[0090] (2) Regarding setting 2 If the main unit setting of the multifunction printer 10 is setting 2 and the driver setting is "Not Specified", the multifunction printer 10 processes the received printer job as "Document Filing" according to the main unit setting. Also, if the driver setting is "Document Filing", the multifunction printer 10 processes the received printer job as "Document Filing" according to the main unit setting. Furthermore, if the driver setting is "Print Release", the multifunction printer 10 processes the received printer job as "Document Filing" according to the main unit setting and stores the print data of the received printer job in the [Standard Folder] regardless of whether user authentication is enabled or disabled. If the main unit setting is setting 2, the multifunction printer 10 processes the received printer job according to the main unit setting (security setting) of the multifunction printer 10.

[0091] (3) Regarding setting 3 If the main unit setting of the multifunction printer 10 is setting 3 and the driver setting is "Not Specified", the multifunction printer 10 will cancel the received printer job according to the main unit setting (restricted operation). Also, if the driver setting is "Document Filing", the multifunction printer 10 will process the received printer job as "Document Filing" according to the main unit setting. Furthermore, if the driver setting is "Print Release", the multifunction printer 10 will cancel the received printer job according to the main unit setting. If the main unit setting is setting 3, the multifunction printer 10 will process the received printer job according to the main unit setting (security setting) of the multifunction printer 10.

[0092] (4) Regarding setting 4 If the main unit setting of the multifunction printer 10 is setting 4 and the driver setting is "Not Specified", the multifunction printer 10 processes the received printer job as "My Folder Print" according to the main unit setting. Also, if the driver setting is "Document Filing", the multifunction printer 10 processes the received printer job as "My Folder Print", but if the received print data is password protected, it cancels the printer job. Furthermore, if the driver setting is "Print Release", the multifunction printer 10 processes the received printer job as "My Folder Print" according to the main unit setting. If the main unit setting is setting 4, the multifunction printer 10 processes the received printer job according to the main unit setting (security setting) of the multifunction printer 10.

[0093] (5) Regarding setting 5 If the main unit setting of the multifunction printer 10 is setting 5 and the driver setting is "Not Specified", the multifunction printer 10 will process the received printer job as "Print Release" according to the main unit setting. Also, if the driver setting is "Document Filing", the multifunction printer 10 will process the received printer job as "Print Release" according to the main unit setting. Furthermore, if the driver setting is "Print Release", the multifunction printer 10 will process the received printer job as "Print Release" according to the main unit setting. If the main unit setting is setting 5, the multifunction printer 10 will process the received printer job according to the main unit setting (security setting) of the multifunction printer 10. Note that if the print release setting is not set correctly (if the master unit setting is not enabled and remains disabled), all jobs will be canceled regardless of the driver setting.

[0094] Figure 20(a) is a diagram illustrating an example of the display configuration of the driver-side settings screen W200, and shows the selection state in the document filing function selection area R22. In the settings screen W200 illustrated in Figure 20, the following options are available for the document filing function: "None", "Hold without printing" which keeps the received print data on the multifunction device 10 without printing it, "Hold after printing" which keeps the received print data on the multifunction device 10 after printing, and "Sample print" which prints only one copy, checks the print content, and then prints the remaining copies. The diagram shows the state where "None" has been selected.

[0095] Figure 20(b) shows the selection of "Hold without printing" from the document filing function selection area R22. When the document filing function (in this case, the "Hold without printing" function) is selected, it becomes possible to enter (set) a password for the print data to be saved to the destination folder ([Standard]) via the password input box Bx10. Even if the document filing function is enabled on the driver side, as explained in Figure 19, the settings on the driver side can only be reflected in the processing on the multifunction printer 10 if the main unit setting on the multifunction printer 10 is "Setting 1" ("Restrict printer jobs" is disabled). Therefore, if the main unit setting on the multifunction printer 10 ("Restrict printer jobs") is enabled, the document filing function selection area R22 can be grayed out to prevent user selection, and if the main unit setting on the multifunction printer 10 ("Restrict printer jobs") is disabled, the document filing function selection area R22 can be made active to accept user selection.

[0096] Figure 20(c) shows the selection status of the print release function in the print release selection area R24. To enable the print release function on the driver side, the print release function can be enabled by checking the checkbox provided in the print release selection area R24. In this case, as explained in Figure 19, the settings on the driver side can be reflected in the processing on the multifunction printer 10 only if the main unit setting on the multifunction printer 10 is "Setting 1" ("Restrict printer jobs" is disabled). Therefore, if the main unit setting of the multifunction printer 10 ("Restrict printer jobs") is enabled, the print release selection area R24 will be grayed out, making it impossible for the user to select it. If the main unit setting of the multifunction printer 10 ("Restrict printer jobs") is disabled, the print release selection area R24 will be active, allowing the user to select it.

[0097] If the multifunction printer 10 performs a process different from the driver's settings, this fact may be notified to the output unit 13 (display device) of the multifunction printer 10 or to the display unit of a terminal device such as a PC on which the driver is installed.

[0098] As described above, according to the third embodiment, even if the settings on the main unit of the multifunction printer and the settings on the driver side do not match, various hold functions can be realized according to the settings on the main unit of the multifunction printer, thereby improving user convenience when using the hold function.

[0099] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible. That is, embodiments obtained by combining technical means that are appropriately modified without departing from the gist of this disclosure are also included in the technical scope of this disclosure.

[0100] Furthermore, although the embodiments described above are explained separately for the sake of explanation, it goes without saying that they may be combined and implemented to the extent that is technically possible.

[0101] Furthermore, in the embodiments, the programs that run in each device are programs that control the CPU and the like (programs that make the computer function) in order to realize the functions of the embodiments described above. The information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (for example, RAM) during processing, and then stored in storage devices such as various ROMs (Read Only Memory) and HDDs, and read, modified, and written by the CPU as needed.

[0102] Here, the computer-readable, non-transient recording medium on which the program in the information processing device is recorded may be any of the following: semiconductor media (e.g., ROM, non-volatile memory card, etc.), optical recording media / magneto-optical recording media (e.g., DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), MO (Magneto Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), CD (Compact Disc), BD (Blu-ray® Disc, etc.)), magnetic recording media (e.g., magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.). In this case, the program recorded on the recording medium is read by the computer of the information processing device and executed by the computer, thereby realizing the functions of the embodiments described above. Furthermore, the functions of this disclosure are realized by processing in cooperation with the operating system or other application programs, etc., based on the instructions of the program.

[0103] Furthermore, when distributing the program to the market, it can be stored on a portable storage medium and distributed, or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the storage device of the server computer is, of course, also included in this disclosure.

[0104] Furthermore, each functional block or feature of the apparatus used in the embodiments described above can also be implemented and executed by an electrical circuit, such as an integrated circuit or a plurality of integrated circuits. An electrical circuit designed to realize the functions described herein may include a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gates or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or a combination thereof. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, a conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. The aforementioned electrical circuit may consist of digital circuits or analog circuits. Also, if advances in semiconductor technology lead to the emergence of integrated circuit technologies that replace current integrated circuits, one or more aspects of this disclosure may use new integrated circuits based on such technologies. [Explanation of symbols]

[0105] 10 Multifunction device 11 Control Unit 13 Output section 15 Operation Input Section 17 Communications Department 19 Image forming unit 21 Image reading unit 23 Memory section 231 Control Program 232 Output control program 233 Job Programs 2331 Handling Program 2333 Retention Function Program 234 Job storage area

Claims

1. An image processing apparatus that holds a print job and applies a predetermined process, Output section, It includes a control unit, The output unit is, The system outputs a management screen that accepts an instruction to select the predetermined process to be applied to the print job, and an individual screen that accepts input of individual setting instructions corresponding to the predetermined process. The control unit, An image processing apparatus characterized by controlling the output of the individual screens in response to selection instructions for the management screen.

2. The control unit, The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that it controls the output of the individual screens corresponding to the predetermined processing that has been received via the management screen.

3. The control unit, The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that it controls the output of the individual screen corresponding to a predetermined process other than the predetermined process that has been selected via the management screen.

4. The control unit, The image processing apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that when controlling the output of the individual screen related to the other predetermined processing, it outputs a message indicating that the input of setting instructions related to the other predetermined processing is restricted.

5. The control unit, The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that when a cancellation instruction is received for the predetermined process for which a selection instruction has been received via the management screen, the output of the individual screen corresponding to the predetermined process for which the cancellation instruction has been received is controlled.

6. The image processing apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that the release instruction for the predetermined process is a release instruction based on the activation of the user authentication function.

7. The control unit, The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that when a setting instruction related to the predetermined processing is received via the individual screen, the output of the management screen is controlled.

8. The control unit, The image processing apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that, when a setting instruction is received via the individual screen to enable the application of a specific setting value related to the predetermined process, the execution restriction of the print job is enabled on the management screen, and the management screen is output with the predetermined process related to the specific setting value selected.

9. The control unit, The image processing apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that, when a setting instruction is received via the individual screen to disable the application of a specific setting value related to the predetermined process, the execution restriction of the print job is disabled on the management screen, and the management screen is output with a specific predetermined process selected.

10. The control unit, The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, in the individual screen corresponding to the predetermined process that receives a selection instruction via the management screen, the individual screen is output with the application of a specific setting value enabled.

11. The control unit, The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, when a selection instruction to disable the execution restriction of the print job is received via the management screen, the management screen is output with a specific predetermined process selected.

12. The control unit, The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, depending on the security strength of user authentication, the output of the predetermined process for which selection instructions can be entered via the management screen is restricted.

13. A control method for an image processing device that holds a received print job and applies predetermined processing to it, The system outputs a management screen that accepts an instruction to select the predetermined process to be applied to the print job, and an individual screen that accepts input of individual setting instructions corresponding to the predetermined process. A control method for an image processing device, characterized by controlling the output of the individual screens in accordance with selection instructions for the management screen.

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