Image forming device and method for controlling image forming device

Abstract

The present application discloses an image forming device and a control method for the image forming device, which can limit parameters in various ways. The image forming device of the embodiment includes a storage unit, an input unit, and an execution unit. The storage unit stores information representing the range of values ​​that can be set as parameters when executing a function for each application group. The input unit receives an input indicating the execution of an application. The execution unit executes the function using the parameters of the range when the application belonging to the application group executes the function.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an image forming apparatus and a method for controlling the image forming apparatus. Background Art

[0002] In the past, when limiting the parameters for executing functions, image forming devices limited the range of parameters for each function. However, there are image forming devices that can register multiple similar applications. In such image forming devices, it is desirable to limit parameters in various ways, not just for each function. Summary of the invention

[0003] An object of the embodiments of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus and a method for controlling the image forming apparatus that can limit parameters in various categories.

[0004] An image forming device in an embodiment includes: a storage unit that stores information indicating a range of values ​​that can be set as parameters for each application group when executing a function; an input unit that receives an input instructing execution of an application; and an execution unit that executes the function using parameters in the range when the application belonging to the application group executes the function.

[0005] An image forming apparatus according to an embodiment includes: a storage unit storing any plurality of first information, second information, third information, and fourth information and a priority order of the plurality of information, the first information indicating a range of values ​​that can be set as a parameter when executing a function for each application, the second information indicating a range of values ​​that can be set as a parameter when executing a function for each application group, the third information indicating a range of values ​​that can be set as a parameter when executing a function for each user, and the fourth information indicating a range of values ​​that can be set as a parameter when executing a function for each user group; an input unit receiving an input for instructing execution of an application; and an execution unit that, when the application executes a function, if at least any one of the plurality of information limits a range that can be set as a parameter for any one of the application, the application group to which the application belongs, the user executing the application, and the user group to which the user belongs, executes the function using a parameter of a range indicated by the information having the highest priority order among the information limiting the range that can be set as a parameter.

[0006] In a control method for an image forming device in an embodiment, information representing a range of values ​​that can be set as parameters for each application group when executing a function is stored, an input instructing execution of an application is received, and when the application belonging to the application group executes the function, the function is executed using parameters within the range.

[0007] In a control method for an image forming apparatus of an embodiment, any plurality of first information, second information, third information, and fourth information and priority orders of the plurality of information are stored, the first information indicating a range of values ​​that can be set as a parameter when executing a function for each application, the second information indicating a range of values ​​that can be set as a parameter when executing a function for each application group, the third information indicating a range of values ​​that can be set as a parameter when executing a function for each user, and the fourth information indicating a range of values ​​that can be set as a parameter when executing a function for each user group; an input instructing execution of an application is received, and when the application executes a function, if at least any one of the plurality of information limits a range that can be set as a parameter for any one of the application, the application group to which the application belongs, the user executing the application, and the user group to which the user belongs, the function is executed using a parameter of a range indicated by the information having the highest priority order among the information that limits the range that can be set as a parameter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 This is a block diagram showing an example of a main part configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 A diagram of an example of an application group table included in the parameter DB.

[0010] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 1 A diagram of an example of an application table included in the parameter DB in FIG.

[0011] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 1 A diagram of an example of a user table included in the parameter DB in .

[0012] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 1 A diagram of an example of a user group table included in the parameter DB in .

[0013] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 1 A diagram of an example of a priority table included in the parameter DB in .

[0014] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 1 A flowchart of an example of processing by a processor in .

[0015] Figure 8 It is shown Figure 1 A flowchart of an example of processing by a processor in .

[0016] Fig. 9 It is shown Figure 1 A flowchart of an example of processing by a processor in .

[0017] Fig.10 It is shown Figure 1 A flowchart of an example of processing by a processor in .

[0018] Fig.11 It is shown by Figure 1 An example of a parameter setting screen displayed on the touch panel in FIG.

[0019] Description of reference numerals:

[0020] 100…image forming apparatus; 101…processor; 102…ROM; 103…RAM; 104…auxiliary storage device; 105…printer; 106…scanner; 107…operation panel; 108…communication interface; 109…bus; 200…parameter setting screen; 201…determination button; 202…return button; 210, 211, 212, 213, 220…area; 1041…parameter DB; 1071…touch panel; 1072…input device; Ta…application group table; Tb…application table; Tc…user table; Td…user group table; U…priority table. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] The following is an explanation of the operation panel of the embodiment using the accompanying drawings. In addition, the drawings used in the following description of the embodiment may sometimes appropriately change the reduction scale of each part. In addition, for the purpose of explanation, the drawings used in the following description of the embodiment may sometimes omit the structure. In addition, in the drawings and this specification, the same reference numerals represent the same elements.

[0022] Figure 1 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a main part configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the embodiment.

[0023] The image forming apparatus 100 is, for example, an MFP (multifunction peripheral), a copier, a printer, or a fax machine. However, in the following, the image forming apparatus 100 is described as an MFP. The image forming apparatus 100 has, for example, a printing function, a scanning function, a copying function, and a fax function. The printing function is a function of forming an image on an image forming medium P, etc., using a recording material such as a toner. The image forming medium P is, for example, a sheet of paper, etc. The scanning function is a function of reading an image from an original document, etc., on which an image is formed. The copying function is a function of printing an image read from an original document, etc., using a scanning function, onto the image forming medium P, using a printing function. As an example, the image forming apparatus 100 includes a processor 101, a ROM (read-only memory) 102, a RAM (random-access memory) 103, an auxiliary storage device 104, a printer 105, a scanner 106, an operation panel 107, and a communication interface 108. In addition, a bus 109, etc., connects these components.

[0024] The processor 101 is equivalent to the central part of the computer that performs the calculation and control required for the operation of the image forming device 100. The processor 101 controls each part to realize various functions of the image forming device 100 based on the programs such as firmware, system software and application software (application) stored in the ROM 102 or the auxiliary storage device 104. In addition, the processor 101 performs the processing described below based on the program. In addition, part or all of the program can also be embedded in the circuit of the processor 101. The processor 101 is, for example, a CPU (central processing unit), an MPU (micro processing unit), an SoC (system on a chip), a DSP (digital signal processor), a GPU (graphics processing unit), an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), a PLD (programmable logic device) or an FPGA (field-programmable gate array). Alternatively, the processor 101 is a combination of multiple of them.

[0025] ROM 102 is equivalent to the main storage device of the computer with processor 101 as the core. ROM 102 is a non-volatile memory dedicated to reading data. ROM 102 stores the above-mentioned programs such as firmware. In addition, ROM 102 also stores data used when processor 101 performs various processes.

[0026] RAM 103 is equivalent to the main storage device of the computer with processor 101 as the core. RAM 103 is a memory used for reading and writing data. RAM 103 is used as a work area for storing data temporarily used by processor 101 when performing various processes. Typically, RAM 103 is a volatile memory.

[0027] The auxiliary storage device 104 is equivalent to an auxiliary storage device of a computer with the processor 101 as the core. The auxiliary storage device 104 is, for example, an EEPROM (electric erasable programmable read-only memory), an HDD (hard disk drive), or a flash memory. The auxiliary storage device 104 stores the above-mentioned programs, such as system software and application software (applications). In addition, the auxiliary storage device 104 stores data used by the processor 101 when performing various processes, data generated by the processing of the processor 101, and various setting values. In addition, as the auxiliary storage device 104, the image forming apparatus 100 may also have an interface that can insert a storage medium such as a memory card or a USB (universal serial bus) memory. The interface reads and writes information to the storage medium.

[0028] The auxiliary storage device 104 stores a parameter DB (database) 1041 .

[0029] The parameter DB 1041 stores and manages parameter restriction information for each application (application), each application group (application group), each user, and each user group. The parameter restriction information is information indicating the range of parameters when the image forming apparatus 100 executes each function. The parameter DB 1041 stores, for example, four types of tables T, namely, an application group table Ta, an application table Tb, a user table Tc, and a user group table Td.

[0030] Figure 2 1 is a diagram showing an example of an application group table Ta. The application group table Ta is a table that stores parameter restriction information for each application group in units of application groups. Any number of applications belong to each application group. Any application can belong to each application group, but preferably only applications of the same type belong to each application group. For example, in Figure 2, four application groups, namely, a copy group, a scan group, a fax group, and a print group are shown. Each of the four application groups is a group that includes only applications of the same type. The copy group includes only applications that use the copy function. The scan group includes only applications that use the scan function. The fax group includes only applications that use the fax function. The print group includes only applications that use the print function. In addition, it may be an application that does not belong to any application group.

[0031] The application group table Ta is an example of second information indicating a range of values ​​that can be set as a parameter when executing a function for each application group.

[0032] Figure 3 2 is a diagram showing an example of the application table Tb. The application table Tb is a table that stores parameter restriction information for each application in units of applications.

[0033] The application table Tb is an example of first information indicating a range of values ​​that can be set as a parameter when executing a function for each application.

[0034] Figure 4 : is a diagram showing an example of a user table Tc. The user table Tc is a table that stores parameter restriction information for each user in units of users. In addition, users can be classified into two categories: registered users and unregistered users. A registered user is a user who is registering with the image forming device 100. An unregistered user is a user who is not a registered user. The user table Tc stores parameter restriction information for each registered user and unregistered user. One user in the user table Tc is an unregistered user, and the other users are registered users. For example, Figure 4 In the example, user 1 is an unregistered user, and users 2 to 5 are registered users.

[0035] The user table Tc is an example of third information indicating a range of values ​​that can be set as a parameter when executing a function for each user.

[0036] Figure 5 2 is a diagram showing an example of a user group table Td. The user group table Td is a table that stores parameter restriction information for each user group by user group. Any number of users belong to each user group. In addition, there may be users who do not belong to any user group.

[0037] The user group table Td is an example of fourth information indicating, for each user group, a range of values ​​that can be set as a parameter when executing a function.

[0038] Each table T stores, for example, multiple types of parameter ranges for five types of functions, namely, "double-sided / single-sided mode", "page merge", "paper feed box", "color mode" and "image log" as parameter restriction information for each division unit. The "double-sided / single-sided mode" function is a function for double-sided printing and single-sided printing. When the value of the "double-sided / single-sided mode" function is "double-sided only", it means that the parameters are restricted to double-sided printing only. When the value of the "double-sided / single-sided mode" function is "double-sided / single-sided", it means that the parameters are not restricted. For other functions, there are also values ​​for restricted parameters and values ​​for unrestricted parameters. In addition, regardless of the function, when the value is "NA", it means that the parameters are not restricted.

[0039] Furthermore, the auxiliary storage device 104 stores a priority table U.

[0040] Figure 6 2 is a diagram showing an example of a priority table U. The priority table U stores the priority of four types of classification methods: application, application group, user, and user group. Figure 6 The priority shown uses numbers from 1 to 4 to indicate that the smaller the number, the higher the priority. Therefore, priority 1 indicates the highest priority, and priority 4 indicates the lowest priority. Based on the above, when the four types of classification methods are arranged in order from the highest priority, Figure 6 The priority order shown is application, user, user group, application group.

[0041] As described above, the auxiliary storage device 104 is an example of a storage unit that stores information indicating a range of values ​​that can be set as a parameter.

[0042] The printer 105 forms an image using toner, ink, or the like, and prints an image on the image forming medium P. The printer 105 includes, for example, an electrophotographic (laser), inkjet, or other type of printer, and performs printing.

[0043] The scanner 106 reads an image from a document or the like. The scanner 106 is, for example, an optical reduction type having an imaging element such as a CCD (charge-coupled device) image sensor. Alternatively, the scanner 106 is a contact sensor (CIS (contact image sensor)) type having an imaging element such as a CMOS (complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor) image sensor. Alternatively, the scanner 106 may be other well-known types.

[0044] The operation panel 107 includes a human-machine interface for performing input and output between the image forming apparatus 100 and an operator of the image forming apparatus 100 (hereinafter referred to as the "operator"). The operation panel 107 includes, for example, buttons and a touch panel for operator operation. The touch panel is formed by stacking a display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (electro-luminescence) display and an indication device based on touch input. Therefore, the button and the touch panel function as an input device for accepting the operator's operation. In addition, the display provided by the touch panel functions as a display device for notifying the operator of various information. As an example, the operation panel 107 includes a touch panel 1071 and an input device 1072.

[0045] The touch panel 1071 is formed by stacking a display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display and a pointing device based on touch input. The display provided by the touch panel 1071 functions as a display device that displays a screen that notifies the operator of various information. In addition, the touch panel 1071 functions as an input device that accepts touch operations of the operator.

[0046] Input device 1072 receives an operation by an operator of image forming apparatus 100. Input device 1072 is, for example, a keyboard, a keypad, or a touch panel.

[0047] The communication interface 108 is an interface for the image forming apparatus 100 to communicate via a network such as the Internet or a LAN (local area network).

[0048] The bus 109 includes a control bus, an address bus, a data bus, and the like, and transmits signals transmitted between various parts of the image forming apparatus 100 .

[0049] The following is based on Figure 7 to Figure 10 The operation of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the embodiment will be described below. The contents of the processing in the following operation description are just examples, and various processing that can obtain the same result can be used as appropriate. Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 1 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the processor 101 of the image forming apparatus 100. The processor 101 executes, for example, a program stored in the ROM 102 or the auxiliary storage device 104. Figure 2 In addition, Figure 7 This is a flowchart related to the change of settings. Figure 8 to Figure 10 It is a flowchart related to the execution of the function.

[0050] The processor 101 starts, for example, when the image forming apparatus 100 is activated. Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 to Figure 10 Processing shown.

[0051] In ACT 11, the processor 101 determines whether an operation for instructing the start of setting the parameter restriction information has been performed. In addition, the image forming apparatus 100 preferably restricts the operation for instructing the start of setting the parameter restriction information so that only users with administrator authority can perform the operation for instructing the start of setting the parameter restriction information. If the operation for instructing the start of setting the parameter restriction information has not been performed, the processor 101 determines that it is no in ACT 11 and proceeds to ACT 12.

[0052] In ACT 12, the processor 101 determines whether the change information is received through the communication interface 108. The change information is information that instructs to change the parameter restriction information. The change information includes a distinction method, a distinction unit, a function, and a value. For example, a PC (personal computer), a server, a smart phone, or other image forming devices sends the change information. If the change information is not received, the processor 101 determines no in ACT 12 and returns to ACT 11. In this way, the processor 101 becomes a standby state that repeats ACT 11 and ACT 12 until an operation to indicate the start of setting the parameter restriction information is performed, or the change information is received.

[0053] If an operation for instructing the start of setting parameter restriction information is performed in the standby state of ACT 11 and ACT 12 , the processor 101 makes a YES determination in ACT 11 and proceeds to ACT 13 .

[0054] In ACT 13, the processor 101 generates an image corresponding to the restriction setting screen. Then, the processor 101 instructs the touch panel 1071 to display the generated image. In response to the instruction to display, the touch panel 1071 displays the restriction setting screen.

[0055] The restriction setting screen is a screen for setting parameter restriction information.

[0056] In ACT 14 , the processor 101 determines whether an operation to end the setting of parameter restriction information and return to the original screen has been performed. If an operation to end the setting of parameter restriction information and return to the original screen has not been performed, the processor 101 determines NO in ACT 14 and proceeds to ACT 15 .

[0057] In ACT 15, the processor 101 determines whether an operation for selecting a classification method has been performed. If an operation for selecting a classification method has not been performed, the processor 101 determines as no in ACT 15 and returns to ACT 14. In this way, the processor 101 becomes a standby state that repeats ACT 14 and ACT 15 until an operation for ending the setting of parameter restriction information and returning to the original screen or an operation for selecting a classification method is performed.

[0058] If an operation to end the setting of the parameter restriction information and return to the original screen is performed in the standby state of ACT 14 and ACT 15 , the processor 101 makes a YES determination in ACT 14 and returns to ACT 11 .

[0059] If an operation is performed to select a classification method for the object to be changed in the parameter restriction information in the standby state of ACT 14 and ACT 15, the processor 101 determines YES in ACT 15 and proceeds to ACT 16. The classification method selected here is the object to be set in the parameter restriction information.

[0060] In ACT 16, the processor 101 calls the table T corresponding to the selected classification method from the parameter DB 1041. For example, if the selected classification method is application, the processor 101 calls the application table Tb.

[0061] In ACT 17 , the processor 101 determines whether an operation to return to the selection of the classification method has been performed. If an operation to return to the selection of the classification method has not been performed, the processor 101 determines “No” in ACT 17 and proceeds to ACT 18 .

[0062] In ACT 18, the processor 101 determines whether an operation indicating a change in the parameter restriction information has been performed. If an operation indicating a change in the parameter restriction information has not been performed, the processor 101 determines as no in ACT 18 and returns to ACT 17. In this way, the processor 101 enters a standby state of repeating ACT 17 and ACT 18 until an operation to return to the selection of the classification method or an operation to indicate a change in the parameter restriction information is performed.

[0063] If an operation to return to the selection of the classification method is performed in the standby state of ACT 17 and ACT 18 , the processor 101 makes a YES determination in ACT 17 and returns to ACT 14 .

[0064] If an instruction operation for instructing to change the parameter restriction information is performed in the standby state of ACT 17 and ACT 18, the processor 101 determines YES in ACT 18 and proceeds to ACT 19. The instruction operation is an operation indicating which function value in which division unit is to be changed to what value.

[0065] In ACT 19 , the processor 101 changes the value of the function indicated by the instruction operation for the division unit indicated by the instruction operation to the value indicated by the instruction operation, with respect to the table T called in ACT 16 . After the processing of ACT 19 , the processor 101 returns to ACT 17 .

[0066] On the other hand, if the change information is received in the standby state of ACT 11 and ACT 12 , the processor 101 makes a YES determination in ACT 12 and proceeds to ACT 20 .

[0067] In ACT 20, the processor 101 calls the table T corresponding to the classification method included in the change information received in ACT 12. And, with respect to the called table T, the processor 101 changes the value of the function included in the change information for the classification unit included in the change information to the value included in the change information. After processing ACT 20, the processor 101 returns to ACT 11.

[0068] exist Figure 8 In ACT31, the processor 101 determines whether a login operation has been performed. The login operation is an operation for registering a user to log in to the image forming device 100. An operator who wants to log in to the image forming device 100 performs a login operation as follows. That is, the operator operates the operation panel 107, etc., for example, to input a user ID and a password. Alternatively, the operator reads an ID card held by the operator into a card reader provided in the image forming device 100. The ID card stores information required for logging in, such as a user ID. In addition, alternatively, the operator may also perform an operation for logging in through biometric authentication. In addition, the image forming device 100 may also automatically perform biometric authentication when the operator approaches to a certain degree or more. If the login operation is not performed, the processor 101 determines as no in ACT31 and enters ACT32.

[0069] In ACT 32, the processor 101 determines whether a logout operation has been performed. The logout operation is an operation for a logged-in user to log out of the image forming apparatus 100. If the logout operation has not been performed, the processor 101 determines "No" in ACT 32 and proceeds to ACT 33.

[0070] In ACT33, the processor 101 determines whether to execute the application. The processor 101 determines to execute the application, for example, based on the execution operation of the operator using the operation panel 107. The execution operation is an operation to instruct the execution of the application. The execution operation includes an operation to specify which application to execute. Alternatively, the processor 101 determines to execute the application based on the execution information received by the communication interface 108. The execution information is information to instruct the execution of the application. The execution information includes execution user information, execution application information, and execution parameter information. The execution user information is information indicating which user executes the application. The execution application information is information indicating which application is executed. The execution parameter information is information indicating what parameters are used to execute the application. For example, a PC, a server, a smart phone, or other image forming device sends the execution information. Based on the above, the operation panel 107 or the communication interface 108 is an example of an input unit that receives input indicating the execution of the application. If it is not determined to execute the application, the processor 101 determines to be no in ACT33 and returns to ACT31. In this way, the processor 101 enters a standby state that repeats ACT 31 to ACT 33 until it is determined that a login operation or a logout operation is performed or an application is executed.

[0071] If a login operation is performed in the standby state of ACT 31 to ACT 33 , the processor 101 makes a YES determination in ACT 31 and proceeds to ACT 34 .

[0072] In ACT 34, the processor 101 performs a login authentication. And if the authentication is successful, the processor 101 puts the image forming device 100 into the following state: the registered user who performed the login operation in ACT 31 is logged in. Therefore, the processor 101 stores the user ID (identifier) ​​in the RAM 103, etc. The user ID is identification information uniquely assigned to each registered user. In addition, the state in which the registered user is logging in to the image forming device 100 is called a "login state". In addition, the state in which the registered user is not logged in to the image forming device 100 is called a "non-login state".

[0073] If a logout operation is performed in the standby state of ACT 31 to ACT 33 , the processor 101 makes a YES determination in ACT 32 and proceeds to ACT 35 .

[0074] In ACT 35 , the processor 101 cancels the login state of the image forming apparatus 100 and sets it to the non-logged-in state.

[0075] If it is determined that the application is to be executed in the standby state of ACT 31 to ACT 33 , the processor 101 makes a YES determination in ACT 33 and proceeds to ACT 36 .

[0076] In ACT 36 , the processor 101 acquires the priority of the classification method from the priority table U.

[0077] In ACT 37, the processor 101 obtains function information indicating the function used by the execution application from the execution application. The execution application is an application specified by the execution operation or the execution information. After the processing of ACT 37, the processor 101 enters Fig. 9 ACT38.

[0078] exist Fig. 9 In ACT38, the processor 101 receives the Figure 8 The processor 101 selects one of the unselected functions among the functions represented by the function information obtained in ACT 37. In addition, all the functions represented by the function information are in an unselected state at the stage when the function information is obtained in ACT 37. Furthermore, the function that has been selected in ACT 37 is no longer unselected. In addition, the processor 101 performs Fig. 9 When processing ACT 38, if there is already a function in a selected state, the selection state of the selected function is released and then processing ACT 38 is performed.

[0079] In ACT 39 , the processor 101 sets the value of a variable r allocated to the RAM 103 or the like to 1.

[0080] In ACT 40, the processor 101 determines a classification method with a priority of r based on the priority acquired in ACT 36. For example, if r=1, the processor 101 determines that the classification method with a priority of 1 is applied. The classification method determined here is referred to as "determined classification".

[0081] In ACT 41, the processor 101 refers to the table T corresponding to the determined category and acquires the value of the parameter restriction information indicating the case where the execution application or the execution user uses the function in the selected state. The execution user is the user who executes the execution application.

[0082] If it is determined that the classification is an application group, the processor 101 refers to the application group table Ta and obtains the value of the function related to the selection state of the application group to which the execution application belongs. However, when the execution application does not belong to any application group, the processor 101 obtains "NA" as the value.

[0083] If it is determined that the distinction is an application, the processor 101 refers to the application table Tb and acquires a value regarding a function in a selected state of executing the application.

[0084] If it is determined that the user is distinguished, the processor 101 refers to the user table Tc and acquires a value regarding a function that executes the user's selection state.

[0085] If it is determined that the classification is a user group, the processor 101 refers to the user group table Td and obtains a value for the function of the selected state of the group to which the executing user belongs. However, if the executing user does not belong to any user group, the processor 101 obtains "NA" as a value.

[0086] In ACT 42, the processor 101 determines whether the value acquired in ACT 41 is the value of the restriction parameter. If the acquired value is the value of the restriction parameter, the processor 101 determines YES in ACT 42 and proceeds to ACT 43.

[0087] In ACT 43, regarding the function in the selected state, the processor 101 determines to limit the range of the parameter to the range indicated by the value acquired in ACT 41. Therefore, the processor 101 stores the range in the RAM 103 or the like in advance.

[0088] In ACT 44, the processor 101 determines whether the parameters when the execution application uses the function in the selected state are within the range stored in ACT 43. In the case where the execution application is executed based on the execution information, the parameters when the function in the selected state is used are the parameters represented by the execution parameter information included in the execution information. In the case where the execution application is executed based on the execution operation, the parameters when the function in the selected state is used are, for example, the parameters set by default. If the parameters when the execution application uses the function in the selected state are outside the range stored in ACT 43, the processor 101 determines as no in ACT 44 and enters ACT 45.

[0089] In ACT 45, the processor 101 changes the parameter when executing the function in the application use selection state to a value within the range stored in ACT 43. When changing the parameter, the processor 101 preferably changes the parameter so that the difference between the parameter before and after the change is as small as possible.

[0090] On the other hand, if the acquired value is not the value of the restriction parameter, the processor 101 makes a No determination in ACT 42 and proceeds to ACT 46 .

[0091] In ACT 46, the processor 101 determines whether the value of the variable r is greater than the constant G. In addition, the constant G is the maximum value of the priority order. Figure 6 As shown, since the priority order is in the range of 1 to 4, G = 4. If the value of the variable r is smaller than the constant G, the processor 101 makes a negative determination in ACT 46 and proceeds to ACT 47 .

[0092] In ACT 47 , the processor 101 increases the value of the variable r by 1. After the processing of ACT 47 , the processor 101 returns to ACT 40 .

[0093] On the other hand, if the value of the variable r is greater than or equal to the constant G, the processor 101 makes a YES determination in ACT 46 and proceeds to ACT 48 .

[0094] In ACT 48, the processor 101 determines not to limit the range of the parameter for the function in the selected state. Therefore, the processor 101 stores the fact that the range is not limited in the RAM 103 or the like.

[0095] In this way, the processor 101 repeats ACT 40 to ACT 48, and determines whether the range of the parameter is limited in order from the distinction method with the highest priority for the function in the selected state. And, in the case where the range of the parameter is limited, the processor 101 stores the range and stops repeating. That is, in the case where any distinction method limits the range of the parameter for the function in the selected state, the processor 101 determines the range of the parameter based on the distinction method with the highest priority.

[0096] On the other hand, if the parameter when executing the application using the function in the selected state is within the range stored in ACT 43, the processor 101 determines YES in ACT 44 and proceeds to ACT 49. Furthermore, the processor 101 proceeds to ACT 49 after processing ACT 45 or ACT 48.

[0097] In ACT 49, the processor 101 determines that Figure 8 37 to determine whether there is an unselected function among the functions represented by the function information obtained in ACT 37. If there is an unselected function, the processor 101 Figure 8 The judgment in ACT49 is yes and the process returns to ACT38.

[0098] As described above, the processor 101 repeats ACT38 to ACT49, thereby Figure 8 The function information acquired in ACT37 indicates the range of the parameters determining each function.

[0099] And, if there is no unselected function, the processor 101 Fig. 9 ACT49 is judged as No and enter Fig.10 ACT50.

[0100] exist Fig.10In ACT50, the processor 101 determines whether to start the execution of the execution application. For example, if the image forming apparatus 100 is set to automatically start the execution of the execution application, the processor 101 determines that the execution of the execution application is started. In addition, the processor 101 determines that the execution of the execution application is started based on an operation such as operating a start button to instruct the execution of the execution application. If it is not determined that the execution of the execution application is started, the processor 101 determines no in ACT50 and proceeds to ACT51.

[0101] In ACT 51, the processor 101 determines whether to set parameters for each function used by the execution application. The processor 101 determines to set parameters, for example, by performing the following operation: an instruction is given to set parameters. If it is not determined to set parameters, the processor 101 determines no in ACT 51 and returns to ACT 50. In this way, the processor 101 becomes a standby state that repeats ACT 50 and ACT 51 until it is determined to start executing the execution application or set parameters.

[0102] If it is determined that the execution of the execution application has started in the standby state of ACT 50 and ACT 51 , the processor 101 makes a YES determination in ACT 50 and proceeds to ACT 52 .

[0103] In ACT52, the processor 101 starts to execute the execution application. In addition, when the processor 101 executes the execution application based on the execution information, the parameters when using the function in the selected state are the parameters indicated by the execution parameter information included in the execution information. Furthermore, when the processor 101 executes the execution application based on the execution operation, the parameters when using the function in the selected state are, for example, the parameters set by default. Fig. 9 ACT45, Fig.10 If the parameters are changed in ACT56 or both, the latest changed parameters are used. After processing ACT52, the processor 101 returns to Figure 8 ACT31.

[0104] As described above, the processor 101 is an example of an execution unit that executes a function.

[0105] If it is determined that the parameter is to be set in the standby state of ACT 50 and ACT 51 , the processor 101 makes a YES determination in ACT 50 and proceeds to ACT 53 .

[0106] In ACT 53, processor 101 generates an image corresponding to the parameter setting screen. Processor 101 instructs touch panel 1071 to display the generated image. Receiving the display instruction, touch panel 1071 displays the parameter setting screen.

[0107] Fig.11 1071 is a diagram showing an example of a parameter setting screen 200 displayed by the touch panel 1071. The parameter setting screen 200 is a screen for setting parameters for each function used to execute an application. As an example, the parameter setting screen 200 includes a determination button 201, a return button 202, an area 210, and an area 220.

[0108] The enter button 201 is a button for the operator to operate when instructing the image forming apparatus 100 to change a parameter.

[0109] The return button 202 is a button for the operator to operate when terminating the display of the parameter setting screen 200 .

[0110] Each area 210 is an area including information on each function used to execute the application. One area 210 corresponds to one function. Each area 210 includes areas 211 to 213.

[0111] Area 211 is an area where the name of the corresponding function is displayed.

[0112] Area 212 is an area for displaying current parameters of the corresponding function.

[0113] Area 213 is an area for displaying a range that can be set for the corresponding function. This range is based on information related to the range stored in ACT 43 or ACT 48.

[0114] The operator can change the parameter within the range displayed in the area 213 by operating the area 212. After the operator operates the area 212, he presses the determination button 201. Thus, the parameter change is reflected.

[0115] Area 220 is an area where information related to the execution of the application and the like are displayed.

[0116] As described above, the touch panel 1071 is an example of a display unit that displays the range of a parameter.

[0117] In ACT 54, processor 101 determines whether an operation to end the display of parameter setting screen 200 has been performed. In other words, processor 101 determines whether a predetermined operation such as operating return button 202 has been performed. If an operation to end the display of parameter setting screen 200 has not been performed, processor 101 determines "no" in ACT 54 and proceeds to ACT 55.

[0118] In ACT 55, the processor 101 determines whether an operation of instructing the image forming apparatus 100 to change parameters has been performed. That is, the processor 101 determines whether a predetermined operation such as operating the decision button 201 has been performed. If an operation of instructing the image forming apparatus 100 to change parameters has not been performed, the processor 101 determines "no" in ACT 55 and returns to ACT 54. In this way, the processor 101 enters a standby state of repeating ACT 54 and ACT 55 until an operation of ending the display of the parameter setting screen 200 or an operation of instructing the image forming apparatus 100 to change parameters is performed.

[0119] If an operation such as operating the return button 202 to end the display of the parameter setting screen 200 is performed in the standby state of ACT 54 and ACT 55 , the processor 101 makes a YES determination in ACT 54 and returns to ACT 50 .

[0120] If an operation such as operating the decision button 201 to instruct the image forming apparatus 100 to change a parameter is performed in the standby state of ACT 54 and ACT 55 , the processor 101 makes a YES determination in ACT 55 and proceeds to ACT 56 .

[0121] In ACT 56 , the processor 101 changes the parameter when the application use function is executed to the value displayed in the area 212 based on the operation on the area 212 . After the processing of ACT 56 , the processor 101 returns to ACT 54 .

[0122] The image forming apparatus 100 of the embodiment determines the range of the parameter for each application. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 100 of the embodiment can limit the parameter in various categories.

[0123] The image forming apparatus 100 of the embodiment determines the range of the parameter for each application group. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 100 of the embodiment can limit the parameter in various categories.

[0124] The image forming apparatus 100 of the embodiment determines the range of the parameter for each user. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 100 of the embodiment can limit the parameter in various categories.

[0125] The image forming apparatus 100 of the embodiment determines the range of the parameter for each user group. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 100 of the embodiment can limit the parameter in various categories.

[0126] The image forming apparatus 100 of the embodiment determines the range of the parameter in a plurality of categories, such as for each application, each application group, each user, and each user group. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 100 of the embodiment can limit the parameter in various categories.

[0127] Image forming apparatus 100 according to the embodiment displays the range of settable parameters. Thus, the operator can easily understand the range of settable parameters by viewing the display.

[0128] The above-mentioned embodiment can also be modified as follows.

[0129] In the above-mentioned embodiment, the image forming apparatus 100 displays the parameter setting screen on the touch panel 1071. However, the image forming apparatus 100 may also display the parameter setting screen on a PC, a server, a smart phone, etc. via a network. In this case, the PC, the server, or the smart phone sends the parameter change content based on the operation performed using the parameter setting screen to the image forming apparatus 100. And the image forming apparatus changes the parameter based on the change content.

[0130] Each table T can store parameter restriction information for each application, each application group, each user or each user group according to the name of the application, application group, user and user group. However, each table T can also store parameter restriction information for sure using ID instead of name.

[0131] The PC, server or smartphone may also display a restriction setting screen. In this case, the PC, server or smartphone stores parameter DB 1041. Furthermore, if an operation indicating a change in parameter restriction information is performed, the PC, server or smartphone sends the changed content of the parameter restriction information to the image forming device 100. The image forming device 100 that receives the changed content changes the values ​​of each table T based on the changed content. In addition, the PC, server or smartphone may also send the changed content to multiple image forming devices 100. Thus, the PC, server or smartphone can change the parameter restriction information of multiple image forming devices 100 at one time.

[0132] The processor 101 may implement part or all of the processing implemented by the program in the above-mentioned embodiments through a hardware configuration of a circuit.

[0133] The image forming apparatus 100 in the above-mentioned embodiment is transferred to an administrator or the like in a state where a program for executing each of the above-mentioned processes is stored. Alternatively, the image forming apparatus 100 is transferred to an administrator or the like in a state where the program is not stored. Furthermore, the program is transferred to an administrator or the like separately and is stored in the image forming apparatus 100 based on an operation of the administrator or a service personnel. The transfer of the program at this time can be achieved by using a removable storage medium such as a disk medium or a semiconductor memory, or by downloading via the Internet or a LAN, etc.

[0134] Although several embodiments are described above, these embodiments are only proposed as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the purpose of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and purpose of the invention, and are also included in the invention described in the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An image forming device, characterized in that: have: a storage unit storing any plurality of first information, second information, third information, and fourth information, and a priority order of the plurality of information, the first information indicating a range of values ​​that can be set as a parameter when executing a function for each application, the second information indicating a range of values ​​that can be set as a parameter when executing a function for each application group, the third information indicating a range of values ​​that can be set as a parameter when executing a function for each user, and the fourth information indicating a range of values ​​that can be set as a parameter when executing a function for each user group; An input unit that receives an input instructing execution of an application; as well as an execution unit, wherein when the application executes a function, if at least any one of the plurality of information limits a range that can be set as a parameter for any one of the application, the application group to which the application belongs, the user who executes the application, and the user group to which the user belongs, the execution unit executes the function using a parameter of a range represented by the information having the highest priority among the information that limits the range that can be set as a parameter, The image forming apparatus further includes a display unit configured to display a range of parameters of the function executed by the application and a current parameter of the function.

2. A method for controlling an image forming device, characterized in that: storing any plurality of first information, second information, third information, and fourth information, and a priority order of the plurality of information, wherein the first information indicates a range of values ​​that can be set as a parameter when executing a function for each application, the second information indicates a range of values ​​that can be set as a parameter when executing a function for each application group, the third information indicates a range of values ​​that can be set as a parameter when executing a function for each user, and the fourth information indicates a range of values ​​that can be set as a parameter when executing a function for each user group, Accepts input instructing execution of an application, When the application executes a function, if at least any one of the plurality of information limits a range that can be set as a parameter for any one of the application, the application group to which the application belongs, the user who executes the application, and the user group to which the user belongs, the function is executed using a parameter of a range represented by the information having the highest priority among the information that limits the range that can be set as a parameter, The range of the parameters of the function executed by the application and the current parameters of the function are displayed.

Images