Information processing apparatus, image communication apparatus, and control method

Abstract

An information processing apparatus and the like capable of providing a job based on setting history information via a user-desired setting screen, which is easy to execute and highly convenient. The information processing apparatus includes a display section, a storage section, and a control section that displays either an execution screen for receiving an execution instruction of a job or a simplified execution screen that simplifies the display content of the execution screen on the display section, the storage section stores history information related to the job for which an execution instruction was received via either the execution screen or the simplified execution screen, and the control section displays the execution screen or the simplified execution screen on the display section in accordance with the history information selected by a user.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to an information processing apparatus or the like. BACKGROUND

[0002] In an information processing apparatus such as a multifunction peripheral, there is an information processing apparatus that performs copying, facsimile, scanning, or E-mail transmission or the like for each job.

[0003] Generally, the execution of a job is performed via a setting screen for a function for the job. In recent years, with the high functionality of information processing apparatuses, the screen operation via the setting screen has become more complicated.

[0004] It is also known that, in order to improve the convenience of an information processing apparatus, the apparatus is additionally provided with a setting screen (simple setting screen) that intentionally limits the display content of a setting screen (normal setting screen) in which all settings can be performed.

[0005] In the simple setting screen, since the settable items are limited, even a user who does not need high-functionality processing and is not familiar with the screen operation in the normal setting screen can easily perform a job without unnecessary screen operation.

[0006] In addition, it is attempted to store the setting value set via the setting screen as setting history record information in a readable manner at the time of execution of a job, and to reuse the past setting history record information (for example, refer to Patent Literature 1).

[0007] The image forming apparatus or the like according to Patent Literature 1 is configured to be able to set the setting history record information via the setting screen, and to be able to read out from the setting screen.

[0008] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0009] PATENT LITERATURE

[0010] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-130245 SUMMARY

[0011] PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0012] In the past, for example, in a case where the setting history record information set and stored via the normal setting screen is read out via the simple setting screen, the simple setting screen is switched to the normal setting screen. Therefore, for a user who performs a job via the simple setting screen on a daily basis, the convenience of use is not good.

[0013] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an information processing apparatus or the like in which the execution of a job based on setting history record information via a setting screen desired by a user becomes easy and the convenience is high.

[0014] Solution to the problem

[0015] To solve the above problem, the information processing apparatus according to the present disclosure includes a display section, a storage section, and a control section, the control section displays either an execution screen for receiving an execution instruction of a job or a simplified execution screen in which a display content of the execution screen is simplified, on the display section, the storage section stores history record information related to the job for which the execution instruction is received via either the execution screen or the simplified execution screen, and the control section displays either the execution screen or the simplified execution screen on the display section in accordance with the history record information selected by a user.

[0016] In addition, the control method according to the present disclosure includes a display process of displaying either an execution screen for receiving an execution instruction of a job or a simplified execution screen in which a display content of the execution screen is simplified, on a display device, a storage process of storing history record information related to the job for which the execution instruction is received via either the execution screen or the simplified execution screen, on a storage device, and a selection display process of displaying either the execution screen or the simplified execution screen on the display device in accordance with the history record information selected by a user.

[0017] In addition, the image communication apparatus according to the present disclosure includes a communication section that communicates with another apparatus in accordance with an operation mode, a history record management section that manages the operation mode and a history record of the communication section, and a control section that performs control to display the history record, in a case where a first operation mode related to a setting screen for which a display instruction of the history record is received and a second operation mode associated with the selected history record are different, and in a case where a job associated with the history record can be executed in the first operation mode, the control section controls display of the setting screen corresponding to the first operation mode.

[0018] In addition, the image communication apparatus according to the present disclosure includes a communication section that communicates with another apparatus using a first transmission method and a second transmission method different from the first transmission method, a history record management section that manages a transmission method and a history record of the communication section, and a control section that performs control to display the history record, in a case where a display instruction of the history record is received, the control section compares a transmission destination using the first transmission method and a transmission destination using the second transmission method recorded in the history record, and displays a setting screen corresponding to the transmission method for which the number of transmission destinations is larger.

[0019] Further, the control method of the image communication apparatus according to the present disclosure includes a communication step of communicating with another apparatus according to an operation mode, a history record management step of managing the operation mode and a history record of the communication step, and a control step of displaying the history record, wherein, in the control step, in a case where a setting screen related to a first operation mode and a second operation mode associated with the selected history record are different, and in a case where a job associated with the history record can be executed in the first operation mode, a setting screen corresponding to the first operation mode is displayed.

[0020] Further, the control method of the image communication apparatus according to the present disclosure includes a communication step of communicating with another apparatus according to an operation mode, a history record management step of managing the operation mode and a history record of the communication step, and a control step of displaying the history record, wherein, in the control step, in a case where a setting screen related to a first operation mode and a second operation mode associated with the selected history record are different, and in a case where a job associated with the history record can be executed in the first operation mode, a setting screen corresponding to the first operation mode is displayed.

[0021] Effects of Invention

[0022] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an information processing apparatus or the like in which execution of a job based on setting history record information via a setting screen desired by a user becomes easy and convenient. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0023] Figure 1 is an external perspective view for explaining the overall configuration of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 2 is a diagram for explaining the functional configuration of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 3 is a table for explaining the setting history record information.

[0026] Figure 4 is a flowchart for explaining the processing flow according to the first embodiment and the fifth embodiment.

[0027] Figure 5 is a flowchart for explaining the processing flow according to the first embodiment.

[0028] Figure 6 is a flowchart for explaining the processing flow according to the first embodiment.

[0029] Figure 7is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the first embodiment.

[0030] Figure 8 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the first embodiment.

[0031] Figure 9 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the first embodiment.

[0032] Figure 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the first embodiment.

[0033] Figure 11 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the first embodiment.

[0034] Figure 12 is a flowchart for explaining a processing procedure relating to the second embodiment.

[0035] Figure 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the second embodiment.

[0036] Figure 14 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the second embodiment.

[0037] Figure 15 is a flowchart for explaining a processing procedure relating to the third embodiment.

[0038] Figure 16 is a flowchart for explaining a processing procedure relating to the third embodiment.

[0039] Figure 17 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the third embodiment.

[0040] Figure 18 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the third embodiment.

[0041] Figure 19 is a flowchart for explaining a processing procedure relating to the fourth embodiment.

[0042] Figure 20 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the fourth embodiment.

[0043] Figure 21 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the fourth embodiment.

[0044] Figure 22 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the fourth embodiment.

[0045] Figure 23 is a table for explaining the setting history record information.

[0046] Figure 24 is a flowchart for explaining a processing procedure relating to the fifth embodiment.

[0047] Figure 25 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure relating to the fifth embodiment.

[0048] Figure 26 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the fifth embodiment.

[0049] Figure 27 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the fifth embodiment.

[0050] Figure 28 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the fifth embodiment.

[0051] Figure 29 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the fifth embodiment.

[0052] Figure 30 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the fifth embodiment.

[0053] Figure 31 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the fifth embodiment.

[0054] Figure 32 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the fifth embodiment.

[0055] Figure 33 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure relating to the sixth embodiment.

[0056] Figure 34 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the sixth embodiment.

[0057] Figure 35 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the sixth embodiment.

[0058] Figure 36 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the sixth embodiment.

[0059] Figure 37 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure relating to the seventh embodiment.

[0060] Figure 38 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the seventh embodiment.

[0061] Figure 39 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the seventh embodiment.

[0062] Figure 40 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure relating to the eighth embodiment.

[0063] Figure 41 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the eighth embodiment.

[0064] Figure 42 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the eighth embodiment.

[0065] Figure 43 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure relating to the ninth embodiment.

[0066] Figure 44 is a diagram illustrating an action example of the ninth embodiment.

[0067] Figure 45 is a diagram illustrating an action example of the ninth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0068] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the present disclosure, a multifunction peripheral that performs each function of copying, facsimile, scanning, or E-mail transmission, etc. per job will be described as one mode of an information processing apparatus. Furthermore, the following embodiments are one example for describing the present disclosure, and the scope of the claims is not limited to the following description.

[0069] [1 First Embodiment]

[0070] The first embodiment is configured as a multifunction peripheral capable of performing a job via a setting screen that is either one of a setting screen that is an execution screen capable of making all settings related to execution of the job (hereinafter referred to as a normal setting screen) and a setting screen that is a simplified execution screen that simplifies the display content of the normal setting screen (hereinafter referred to as a simplified setting screen) at the time of executing the job. Furthermore, the execution mode of the job via the normal setting screen is sometimes referred to as a "normal mode", and the execution mode of the job via the simplified setting screen is sometimes referred to as a "simplified mode".

[0071] [1.1 Functional Configuration]

[0072] Figure 1 is an appearance perspective view schematically illustrating the overall configuration of the multifunction peripheral 10 relating to the first embodiment. Figure 2 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction peripheral 10. The multifunction peripheral 10 is provided with a control section 11, a display section 13, an operation input section 15, a communication section 17, an image forming section 19, an image reading section 21, and a storage section 23.

[0073] The control section 11 controls the entire multifunction peripheral 10. The control section 11 is configured by one or a plurality of arithmetic devices (CPU (Central Processing Unit) or the like), for example. The control section 11 realizes its functions by reading out various programs stored in the storage section 23 and executing them.

[0074] The display section 13 displays various information to a user or the like. The display section 13 can be configured by, for example, an LCD (Liquid crystal display), an organic EL (Electro-luminescence) display, or the like.

[0075] The operation input section 15 receives input of information based on a user or the like. The operation input section 15 can be configured by, for example, hard keys such as number keys, buttons, or the like. Further, the operation input section 15 can also be configured as a touch panel that can be input via the display section 13. In this case, as an input method of the touch panel, a method such as a resistive film method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, an electrostatic capacity method, or the like can be adopted.

[0076] The communication section 17 includes, for example, an interface of either one or both of wired / wireless for communicating with other devices via a network (NW) such as a LAN (Local area network), a WAN (Wide area network), the Internet, a telephone line, a facsimile line, or the like.

[0077] The image forming section 19 forms an image based on image data on paper as a recording medium. The image forming section 19 feeds paper from the paper feed section 25, and after forming an image based on image data on the paper, discharges the paper to the paper discharge section 27. The image forming section 19 can be configured by, for example, a laser printer or the like that utilizes an electrophotographic method. The image forming section 19 forms an image using toner supplied from a non-illustrated toner cartridge corresponding to toner colors (for example, C (Cyan), M (Magenta), Y (Yellow), K (Black)).

[0078] The image reading section 21 generates image data by scanning and reading a document image as a reading target. The image reading section 21 can be configured by, for example, a scanner device provided with an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge coupled device), a CIS (Contact image sensor), or the like. The image reading section 21 is not limited in configuration as long as it generates image data by reading a reflected light image from a document image with an image sensor.

[0079] The storage section 23 stores various programs and various data required for the operation of the multifunction peripheral 10. The storage section 23 can be configured by, for example, a storage device such as a RAM (Random access memory), an HDD (Hard disk drive), an SSD (Solid state drive), a ROM (Read only memory), or the like.

[0080] In the first embodiment, the storage section 23 stores a job execution program 231, a setting history information processing program 232, a display processing program 233, a mode judgment program 234, and secures a setting value storage area 235, a setting history information storage area 236, and a display content storage area 237.

[0081] The job execution program 231 is a program read out by the control section 11 in order to perform processing accompanying execution of each function such as copying, facsimile, scanning, or E-mail transmission, etc. as a unit of a job. The control section 11 which has read out the job execution program 231 performs a job by controlling each part related to execution of the job such as the display section 13, the operation input section 15, the communication section 17, the image forming section 19, the image reading section 21, etc. In addition, the control section 11 which has read out the job execution program 231 performs various jobs based on the setting values contained in the setting history information described later.

[0082] The setting history information processing program 232 is a program read out by the control section 11, for example, at the time of acquisition of a setting value related to execution of a job, generation of setting history information, various processing with respect to the setting history information, etc. The control section 11 which has read out the setting history information processing program 232 acquires a setting value related to execution of a job and stores it in the setting value storage area 235. In addition, the control section 11 generates setting history information based on the acquired setting value and stores it in the setting history information storage area 236.

[0083] The display processing program 233 is a program read out by the control section 11 at the time of displaying a display screen for displaying setting history information, a setting screen such as a normal setting screen for accepting input of various setting values related to execution of a job, a simple setting screen, etc., or a home screen for accepting switching of each job function, etc. The control section 11 which has read out the display processing program 233 constitutes each screen based on unillustrated frame information, content configuration information, etc. stored in the display content storage area 237 and displays it on the display section 13.

[0084] The mode judgment program 234, at the time of execution of a job, recognizes setting history information selected via a setting screen in display as being setting history information related to a job executed in a normal mode (normal setting screen) or as being setting history information related to a job executed in a simple mode (simple setting screen), and judges the mode of the job executed.

[0085] The control section 11 which has read out the mode judgment program 234, for example:

[0086] (1) In a case where the setting screen being displayed is the simple setting screen, and the setting history information selected via the simple setting screen is setting history information related to a job performed via the simple setting screen, the mode of the job being performed is determined to be the "simple mode".

[0087] (2) In a case where the setting screen being displayed is the simple setting screen, and the setting history information selected via the simple setting screen is setting history information related to a job performed via the normal setting screen, and execution in the simple mode is possible, the mode of the job being performed is determined to be the "simple mode".

[0088] (3) In a case where the setting screen being displayed is the normal setting screen, and the setting history information selected via the normal setting screen is setting history information related to a job performed via the simple setting screen, the mode of the job being performed is determined to be the "simple mode".

[0089] (4) In a case where the setting screen being displayed is the normal setting screen, and the setting history information selected via the normal setting screen is setting history information related to a job performed via the normal setting screen, and execution in the simple mode is possible, the mode of the job being performed is determined to be the "simple mode".

[0090] Further, in the above (2) or (4), in a case where the setting history information in which a function not included in the simple mode (for example, a text / image combining function, a special printing function, or the like) is set is selected by the user, the control section 11 can also determine the mode of the job being performed to be the "normal mode".

[0091] The setting value storage area 235 is a storage area that stores setting values related to the execution of a job. The setting values include, for example, setting values set by the user, such as a color mode, a paper / original size, a paper type, a number of copies, a zoom function (a magnification), a paper selection (a tray), double-sided copying, and the like, and setting values maintained by the device itself, such as a device initial value.

[0092] The setting history record information storage area 236 is a storage area that stores setting history record information in a data table form. The setting history record information according to the present disclosure can be configured as history record information in which, for example, information composed of a combination of information related to an execution history of a job of a job kind, an execution user name, an execution date and time, a mode, and so on and some or all of the setting values stored in the setting value storage area 235, a job ID or the like identifier for uniquely identifying the information is attached. The setting history record information stored in the setting history record information storage area 236 is appropriately called up at the time of execution of a job based on the setting history record information, mode determination, and so on.

[0093] Figure 3 is a drawing that explains one configuration example of setting history record information. For example, as information related to an execution history, the setting history record information of the job ID "025" contains "job kind": "copy", "execution user name": "Yamada", "file name": "document03", "number of pages / number of groups": "002 / 001", "start date and time-end date and time": "2019 / 12 / 04 10:30:50-2019 / 12 / 04 10:32:50", "mode": "normal (normal mode)". In addition, as setting values, the setting history record information contains "color mode": "full color", "paper size / original size": "A4", "paper type": "plain paper",..., "sorting / grouping": "automatic", and so on. Furthermore, as a setting history record information of the job ID "026", the setting history record information contains "job kind": "copy", "execution user name": "Yamada", "file name": "document04", "number of pages / number of groups": "002 / 001", "start date and time-end date and time": "2019 / 12 / 04 10:33:00-2019 / 12 / 04 10:35:00", "mode": "normal (normal mode)", and so on. Note that the setting values of the setting history record information are merely examples, and the setting values in the present disclosure are not limited to Figure 3 the setting values described in Figure 3 .

[0094] The display content storage area 237 is a storage area that stores frame information, content configuration information, and so on not illustrated that are used in display of a display screen, a setting screen, or a home screen, and so on. The control section 11 of the readout display processing program 233 configures each screen based on the frame information, the content configuration information, and so on not illustrated stored in the display content storage area 237 and displays on the display section 13.

[0095] [1.2 Process flow]

[0096] Next, the flow of the process related to the first embodiment will be explained. First, as the overall process of the multifunction peripheral 10, the flow of the process will be explained using the flowchart of Figure 4 . Furthermore, in the following explanation, as one mode of the job executed by the multifunction peripheral 10, a copy job will be explained, but the present process can be applied to a facsimile job, a scan job, or an E-mail transmission job, and so on in addition to the copy job.

[0097] The control section 11 accepts an execution instruction input of the copy job via the normal setting screen associated with the normal mode or the easy setting screen associated with the easy mode (step S10).

[0098] The control section 11 reads out the job execution program 231. The control section 11 controls each part such as the image forming section 19 based on the setting values accepted via the normal setting screen or the easy setting screen, to execute the copy job (step S20).

[0099] After the execution of the copy job, the control section 11 reads out the setting history information processing program 232. The control section 11 acquires the setting values associated with the execution of the copy job. Also, the control section 11 generates setting history information based on the acquired setting values, and stores in the setting history information storage area 236. At this time, the control section 11 stores the generated setting history information with mode information (refer to Figure 3 ) attached thereto, which indicates whether the copy job is executed in the normal mode or in the easy mode (step S30).

[0100] Next, the processing associated with the execution of a new copy job using the setting history information stored in the setting history information storage area 236 will be described using the flowchart of Figure 5 .

[0101] The user selects whether to execute in the normal mode via the normal setting screen or in the easy mode via the easy setting screen at the time of execution of the copy job. In this case, the user can select either of the normal mode or the easy mode via the home screen described later, for example.

[0102] When either of the normal mode or the easy mode is selected by the user, the control section 11 accepts the selection of the mode (step S40).

[0103] The control section 11 displays the setting screen based on the accepted mode (the normal setting screen or the easy setting screen) on the display section 13 by reading out the display processing program 233 (step S50).

[0104] After the display of the setting screen, the control section 11 determines whether the execution of the job uses the stored setting history information (step S60). In this case, the control section 11 can also determine whether to use the stored setting history information according to the input of the display instruction of the setting history information.

[0105] In the case where it is determined to use the setting history information, the control section 11 displays the stored setting history information (step S60; YES → step S70).

[0106] Next, the control section 11 receives selection of the setting history information by the user (step S80). Then, the control section 11 displays the setting screen to which the setting values of the setting history information selected by the user are applied, on the display section 13 (step S90).

[0107] The control section, upon accepting an execution instruction of a new job via the setting screen displayed on the display section 13, executes the job based on the setting history information (step S100).

[0108] Further, in a case where it is determined that the setting history information is not to be utilized (step S60: No), if the control section 11 accepts an execution instruction of a new job via the setting screen displayed on the display section 13 in step S50, the job is executed (step S100).

[0109] Further, the setting values related to the job executed in step S100 can be generated and stored as the setting history information through the same processing as in step S30. Figure 4

[0110] Next, the processing of step S90 of the flowchart of Figure 6 will be described. Figure 5

[0111] The control section 11 determines, by the read mode determination program 234, whether the setting history information received in step S80 is the setting history information related to the copy job executed in the normal mode (step S110). Figure 5 In a case where it is determined that the selected setting history information is the setting history information related to the copy job executed in the normal mode, the control section 11 determines whether execution of the copy job related to the setting history information can be coped with in the easy mode (step S110: Yes → step S120).

[0112] In a case where it is determined that execution of the copy job related to the setting history information can be coped with in the easy mode, the control section 11 displays the easy setting screen to which the setting values of the setting history information are applied, on the display section 13 (step S120: Yes → step S130).

[0113] Further, in a case where it is determined that the selected setting history information is not the setting history information related to the copy job executed in the normal mode, the control section 11 displays the easy setting screen to which the setting values of the setting history information are applied, on the display section 13, and ends the processing (step S110: No → step S130).

[0114] Further, in a case where it is determined that the setting history information is not to be utilized (step S60: No), if the control section 11 accepts an execution instruction of a new job via the setting screen displayed on the display section 13 in step S50, the job is executed (step S100).

[0109] Further, the setting values related to the job executed in step S100 can be generated and stored as the setting history information through the same processing as in step S30. Figure 4

[0110] Next, the processing of step S90 of the flowchart of Figure 6 will be described. Figure 5

[0111] The control section 11 determines, by the read mode determination program 234, whether the setting history information received in step S80 is the setting history information related to the copy job executed in the normal mode (step S110). Figure 5 In a case where it is determined that the selected setting history information is the setting history information related to the copy job executed in the normal mode, the control section 11 determines whether execution of the copy job related to the setting history information can be coped with in the easy mode (step S110: Yes → step S120).

[0112] In a case where it is determined that execution of the copy job related to the setting history information can be coped with in the easy mode, the control section 11 displays the easy setting screen to which the setting values of the setting history information are applied, on the display section 13 (step S120: Yes → step S130).

[0113] Further, in a case where it is determined that the selected setting history information is not the setting history information related to the copy job executed in the normal mode, the control section 11 displays the easy setting screen to which the setting values of the setting history information are applied, on the display section 13, and ends the processing (step S110: No → step S130).

[0114] Further, in a case where it is determined that the setting history information is not to be utilized (step S60: No), if the control section 11 accepts an execution instruction of a new job via the setting screen displayed on the display section 13 in step S50, the job is executed (step S100).

[0109] Further, the setting values related to the job executed in step S100 can be generated and stored as the setting history information through the same processing as in step S30. Figure 4

[0110] Next, the processing of step S90 of the flowchart of Figure 6 will be described. Figure 5

[0111] The control section 11 determines, by the read mode determination program 234, whether the setting history information received in step S80 is the setting history information related to the copy job executed in the normal mode (step S110). Figure 5 In a case where it is determined that the selected setting history information is the setting history information related to the copy job executed in the normal mode, the control section 11 determines whether execution of the copy job related to the setting history information can be coped with in the easy mode (step S110: Yes → step S120).

[0112] In a case where it is determined that execution of the copy job related to the setting history information can be coped with in the easy mode, the control section 11 displays the easy setting screen to which the setting values of the setting history information are applied, on the display section 13 (step S120: Yes → step S130).

[0113] Further, in a case where it is determined that the selected setting history information is not the setting history information related to the copy job executed in the normal mode, the control section 11 displays the easy setting screen to which the setting values of the setting history information are applied, on the display section 13, and ends the processing (step S110: No → step S130).

[0114] Further, in a case where it is determined that the setting history information is not to be utilized (step S60: No), if the control section 11 accepts an execution instruction of a new job via the setting screen displayed on the display section 13 in step S50, the job is executed (step S100).

[0109] Further, the setting values related to the job executed in step S100 can be generated and stored as the setting history information through the same processing as in step S30. Figure 4

[0110] Next, the processing of step S90 of the flowchart of Figure 6 will be described. Figure 5

[0111] The control section 11 determines, by the read mode determination program 234, whether the setting history information received in step S80 is the setting history information related to the copy job executed in the normal mode (step S110). Figure 5 In a case where it is determined that the selected setting history information is the setting history information related to the copy job executed in the normal mode, the control section 11 determines whether execution of the copy job related to the setting history information can be coped with in the easy mode (step S110: Yes → step S120).

[0112] In a case where it is determined that execution of the copy job related to the setting history information can be coped with in the easy mode, the control section 11 displays the easy setting screen to which the setting values of the setting history information are applied, on the display section 13 (step S120: Yes → step S130).

[0113] Further, in a case where it is determined that the selected setting history information is not the setting history information related to the copy job executed in the normal mode, the control section 11 displays the easy setting screen to which the setting values of the setting history information are applied, on the display section 13, and ends the processing (step S110: No → step S130).

[0114] Further, in a case where it is determined that the setting history information is not to be utilized (step S60: No), if the control section 11 accepts an execution instruction of a new job via the setting screen displayed on the display section 13 in step S50, the job is executed (step S100).

[0109]

[0115] In addition, in a case where it is determined that the copy job related to the setting history information cannot be coped with in the simple mode, the control section 11 displays the normal setting screen of the setting values applied with the setting history information in the display section 13, and ends the process (Step S120; No→Step S140).

[0116] [1.3 Action Example]

[0117] Next, an action example of the first embodiment will be described. By the touch panel type operation input section 15 provided on the screen of the display section 13, each input of the user can be realized by the user pressing each button area divided on the screen. Figure 7 is one example of the simple setting screen W10 related to the copy job. The simple setting screen W10 can enable, for example, the setting of the setting values related to the paper selection, the double-sided copying, the magnification, and the binding / punching in the copy job, by the user. Figure 5 The mode selection process by the user via the home screen described later in Step S40 in the simple setting screen W10, the display via the normal setting screen described in the next figure.

[0118] The simple setting screen W10 does not limit the setting value items that can be set by the user, and becomes a simple screen configuration, compared with the normal setting screen described in the next figure. The simple setting screen W10 has the setting value button Blla, the action control button B13a, the start button B19a, the normal setting button B21a, the job status notification button B23a, and the display switching button B25a.

[0119] The setting value button Blla receives the selection and input of the setting values that can be set by the user via the simple setting screen W10. The user can set the setting values related to the paper selection, for example, by selecting the desired setting value from the not-illustrated items such as "manual", "tray 1, 2, 3...", "automatic selection" related to the paper selection by pressing the paper selection button. Figure 7 is an example of displaying four setting value items of "paper selection", "double-sided copying", "magnification", and "binding / punching" as the setting value items that can be set. In addition, the other setting value items can be displayed by the pressing of the display switching button B25a. In addition, the setting values shown on the surface of each button of the setting value button Blla are displayed reflecting the setting values of the setting history information applied (Blla-1). Figure 7 is an example of the setting values related to the setting history information of the job ID "024" of Figure 3 applied to the simple setting screen W10). In addition, Figure 7 The configuration of the setting value button Blla exemplified is only one example, and is not limited to the description of Figure 7 .

[0120] The operation control button B13a includes, for example, a reset button, a preview button, a number of copies button B15a, a setting history display button B17a, and the like. The reset button is used to accept a reset of a setting value selected and input via the setting value button B11a, the number of copies button B15a, and the like, for example. The preview button is used to accept a display instruction of a preview image before execution of a copy job. The number of copies button B15a is used to accept an input of a number of copies. The setting history display button B17a is used to accept a display instruction of a setting history display screen described later.

[0121] The start button B19a includes a black-and-white start button and a color start button. When black-and-white copying is desired, the user presses the black-and-white start button. On the other hand, when color copying is desired, the user presses the color start button. When either of the black-and-white start button or the color start button is pressed by the user, a process related to the copy job is executed.

[0122] The normal setting button B21a is used to accept a switching instruction to the normal setting screen described in the next figure.

[0123] The job status notification button B23a is used to accept a notification instruction of an execution status of a job.

[0124] Figure 8 is one example of a configuration of the normal setting screen W20 of the copy job. For example, the normal setting screen W20 can be displayed in step S40 of Figure 5 in the user mode selection process or the simple setting screen W10.

[0125] The normal setting screen W20 is a screen configuration in which all settings related to execution of the copy job can be made. The normal setting screen W20 is provided with a setting value button B11b, an operation control button B13b, a number of copies button B15b, a start button B19b, a simple setting button B21b, and a job status notification button B23b.

[0126] The setting value button B11b is used to accept selection and input of a setting value that can be set by the user among setting values included in the setting history information. The user can set a setting value related to the color mode, for example, by pressing a color mode, thereby selecting a desired setting value from unillustrated items such as "full color", "black and white", "monochrome color", "automatic (color / black and white)" related to selection of the color mode. Figure 8 is an example in which "color mode", "original", "paper selection", "double-sided copying", "magnification", "copy density", and "sorting / grouping" are provided as setting value items that can be set. In addition, each setting value displayed on the surface of the setting value button B11b is displayed reflecting a setting value of the setting history information applied Figure 8 is an example in which "color mode", "original", "paper selection", "double-sided copying", "magnification", "copy density", and "sorting / grouping" are provided as setting value items that can be set. In addition, each setting value displayed on the surface of the setting value button B11b is displayed reflecting a setting value of the setting history information appliedFigure 3 The example of the setting value of the setting history record information of the job ID "025" is shown in FIG. 25. Further, Figure 8 The example of the setting value button Bllb shown in FIG. 24 is only an example, and is not limited to Figure 8 the description item.

[0127] Further, the setting value button Bllb has "other functions" in addition to the above-described setting value items. By pressing the "other functions", the user can call up other setting value items other than the displayed setting value items, and perform selection and input of the setting value.

[0128] The action control button B13b has, in addition to the preview button and the reset button, extended function buttons such as a "send at the same time as printing" button, a "call up program" button, and an "archive" button. For example, by pressing the "send at the same time as printing" button, printing of the read image and sending (for example, E-mail sending, facsimile sending, and the like) to a prescribed destination can be performed at the same time as execution of the copy job.

[0129] In addition, the action control button B13b includes a setting history record display button B17b and a simple setting button B21b. The setting history record display button B17b is for accepting a display instruction of a setting history record display screen described later. In addition, the simple setting button B21b is for accepting a switching instruction to a simple setting screen W10.

[0130] The number button B15b accepts pressing in the case of setting the number of copies.

[0131] The start button B19b includes a black-and-white start button and a color start button. When black-and-white copying is desired, the user presses the black-and-white start button. On the other hand, when color copying is desired, the user presses the color start button. When either of the black-and-white start button or the color start button is pressed by the user, processing related to the copy job is executed.

[0132] The job status notification button B23b is for accepting a notification instruction of the execution status of the job.

[0133] Figure 9 is one configuration of the setting history record display screen W30. For example, by pressing the setting history record display button B17a of the simple setting screen W10 exemplified in FIG. 21 or the setting history record display button B17b of the normal setting screen W20 exemplified in FIG. 24 or the setting history record display button of the home screen described later, the setting history record display screen W30 can be displayed at any time. Figure 7 Figure 8 is one configuration of the setting history record display screen W30. For example, by pressing the setting history record display button B17a of the simple setting screen W10 exemplified in FIG. 21 or the setting history record display button B17b of the normal setting screen W20 exemplified in FIG. 24 or the setting history record display button of the home screen described later, the setting history record display screen W30 can be displayed at any time.

[0134] ​The setting history display screen W30 has a setting history display area R11 and an all deletion button B27. The setting history display area R11 is configured to be able to arrange and display the setting history information related to each job in chronological order, for example. Further, there is no particular limitation on the display method of the setting history information, and for example, as exemplified in FIG. 27, in the case where the multifunction peripheral 10 that displays the setting history information related to all jobs, or displays only the setting history information related to a certain specific job, has a user authentication function, the following display methods can be adopted: display only the setting history information related to the job of the logged-in user, display only the setting history information having the same setting value, display only the setting history information related to the job executed within a certain period, and display only the setting history information related to a certain job execution user. Figure 9

[0135] Figure 9 is an example in which the setting history information related to the five jobs of normal copy, simple copy, normal copy, simple fax, and scan save is displayed in chronological order from the upper to the lower. Further, in FIG. 27, Figure 9 the three upper setting history information corresponds to the setting history information related to the job IDs "025" to "023" exemplified in FIG. 26. Figure 3

[0136] Here, in each display area (a portion related to the copy job) of the setting history display area R11, the job type in the specific mode (for example, the copy job in the normal mode: normal copy), the start date and time of the job, and a part of the setting value are displayed. Figure 9 is an example in which the setting value items of "paper selection", "double-sided copy", and "binding / punching" are displayed as the displayed setting value items, but the displayed setting value items can be appropriately selected.

[0137] Further, each setting history information displayed in the setting history display area R11 is configured to be able to be selected by the user. The user can easily execute the job based on the selected setting history information or a similar job by selecting the desired setting history information. For example, when the setting history information related to the simple copy (corresponding to the job ID "024") surrounded by the dashed line frame is selected, the screen is switched to the simple setting screen W10 exemplified in FIG. 25. In this case, the selected setting history information can also be dimly displayed in a manner that makes the grasp of the selected setting history information easy. Figure 7

[0138] ​​​The all deletion button B27 functions to accept an instruction to delete the setting history record information from the setting history record display area R11. When the all deletion button B27 is pressed by the user, the control section 11 stops the display of the setting history record information in the setting history record display area R11.

[0139] Figure 10 is Figure 5 In a case where the setting history record information selected via the easy setting screen W10 is related to a job performed in the normal mode (normal setting screen W20) in the state where the easy mode is selected by the user in step S40, an example of the operation.

[0140] Further, the present operation example corresponds to the processing explained in the flowcharts of Figure 5 and Figure 6 Here, the control section 11 explains the state where the easy setting screen W10 is displayed as "state 1", the state where the setting history record display screen W30 is displayed as "state 2", and the state where the normal setting screen W20 is displayed as "state 3".

[0141] When the setting history record display button B17a is pressed from the state 1 where the easy setting screen W10 is displayed, the control section 11 switches the display screen to the setting history record display screen W30 (arrow 1-2 in the figure, state 2).

[0142] When the setting history record information related to the copy job is selected by the user in the state 2, the control section 11 judges whether the selected setting history record information is the copy job performed in the normal mode (corresponding to the processing of step S110 of Figure 6 ). In this case, the control section 11 can judge whether the setting history record information is the copy job performed in the normal mode by referring to the "mode" of the selected setting history record information.

[0143] In a case where it is judged that the setting history record information selected by the user is the copy job performed in the normal mode, the control section 11 further judges whether the copy job can be coped with in the easy mode (corresponding to the processing of step S110 of Figure 6 ; Yes→step S120). In this case, the control section 11 confirms the setting values (for example, the text / image combining function, the special printing function, and the like) that the user cannot change the settings via the easy setting screen W10 by referring to the setting values of the setting history record information. The control section 11 can judge that the case where no change is applied to these setting values can be coped with in the easy mode.

[0144] If the system determines that the copying job can be handled in simplified mode, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W30 to the simplified setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1). Additionally, if the system determines that the setting history information selected by the user is for a copying job executed in simplified mode, the control unit 11 also switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W30 to the simplified setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1).

[0145] As the display screen transitions from state 2 to state 1, the control unit 11 displays the settings selected by the user for the historical settings information on the display unit 13.

[0146] On the other hand, if a setting value that cannot be changed by the user through the simplified setting screen W10 is changed, the control unit 11 determines that it cannot be handled in the simplified mode. Then, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W30 to the normal setting screen W20 (arrows 2-3 in the figure, state 2 → state 3).

[0147] As the display screen transitions from state 2 to state 3, the control unit 11 displays the settings of the user-selected historical settings information on the display unit 13 in the state of applying the settings of the user-selected historical settings information to the normal settings screen W20.

[0148] In addition, such as Figure 10 As illustrated, the simplified setting screen W10 and the normal setting screen W20 can be switched appropriately by pressing the switching indicator buttons (normal setting button B21a or simplified setting button B21b) located on each setting screen. Therefore, for example, in simplified mode, if it is desired to change a setting value that cannot be changed, the user can easily and flexibly perform a copying operation by switching the display screen (mode) from the simplified setting screen W10 to the normal setting screen W20.

[0149] Figure 11 Is Figure 5 In step S40, when the user selects the normal mode, the action example is related to the setting history information selected via the normal setting screen W20 and the operation performed in the normal mode (normal setting screen W20).

[0150] When the setting history display button B17b is pressed from state 3, which displays the normal setting screen W20, the control unit 11 switches the display screen to the setting history display screen W30 (arrow 3-2 in the figure, state 2).

[0151] When the user selects setting history information related to a copy job in state 2, the control unit 11 determines whether the selected setting history information pertains to a copy job executed in normal mode (and...). Figure 6 (This corresponds to step S110). In this case, the control unit 11 can determine whether the selected setting history information is a copy job performed in normal mode by referring to the "mode" of the setting history information.

[0152] If the control unit 11 determines that the copy job selected by the user and executed in normal mode is a copy job, it further determines whether the copy job can be handled in simplified mode (corresponding to...). Figure 6 Step S120; Yes → Step S130 processing). In this case, the control unit 11 refers to the setting values ​​in the setting history information and confirms the setting values ​​that the user cannot change via the simplified setting screen W10 (e.g., text / image synthesis function, special printing function, etc.). The control unit 11 determines that if these setting values ​​are not changed, it can be handled in simplified mode. Then, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W30 to the simplified setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1). Furthermore, if it is determined that the setting history information selected by the user is a copying operation performed in simplified mode, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W30 to the simplified setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1).

[0153] As the display screen transitions from state 2 to state 1, the control unit 11 displays the settings selected by the user for the historical settings information on the display unit 13.

[0154] Furthermore, if a setting value that cannot be changed by the user via the simplified setting screen W10 is modified, the control unit 11 determines that it cannot be handled in simplified mode. Then, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W30 to the normal setting screen W20 (arrows 2-3 in the figure, state 2 → state 3).

[0155] As the display screen transitions from state 2 to state 3, the control unit 11 displays the settings of the user-selected historical settings information on the display unit 13 in the state of applying the settings of the user-selected historical settings information to the normal settings screen W20.

[0156] In addition, such as Figure 11As illustrated, the normal setting screen W20 and the simplified setting screen W10 can be switched appropriately by pressing the switching indicator buttons (normal setting button B21a and simplified setting button B21b) located on each setting screen. Therefore, for example, in simplified mode, if it is desired to change a setting value that cannot be changed, the user can easily and flexibly perform a copying operation by switching the display screen (mode) from the simplified setting screen W10 (state 1) to the normal setting screen W20 (state 3).

[0157] As described above, according to the first embodiment, a setting screen related to the execution of a task based on the setting history information can be selected based on the execution mode of the setting history information selected via the setting screen in the display (selection). Therefore, an information processing device can be provided that makes the execution of a task based on the setting history information via the setting screen desired by the user easy and convenient.

[0158] [2 Second Implementation]

[0159] The second embodiment is configured such that when selecting to set history information on the home screen, one can choose whether to perform the operation in the normal mode via the normal setting screen or in the simplified mode via the setting screen.

[0160] The functional configuration of the multifunction printer according to the second embodiment can be set to be the same as that of the multifunction printer 10 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of the functional configuration of the multifunction printer according to the second embodiment is omitted, and the same reference numerals as those used for the multifunction printer 10 according to the first embodiment are used for description.

[0161] [2.1 Processing Flow]

[0162] use Figure 12 The flowchart below explains the processing flow involved in the second embodiment. Furthermore, the second embodiment begins processing via a home screen. The home screen is, for example, a basic screen displayed on the display unit 13 when the power is on, in standby mode, or when resuming from sleep mode, and is subject to user input. In the following description, a copying operation is assumed as one type of operation performed by the multifunction printer 10; however, this processing can be applied to faxing, scanning, or email sending operations in addition to copying.

[0163] For example, when the power is turned on, in standby mode, or when resuming from sleep mode, the control unit 11 reads the display processing program 233 and displays the home screen on the display unit 13 (step S150).

[0164] When the user inputs a setting instruction for displaying historical information (step S160), the control unit 11 displays the setting historical information display screen W30 on the display unit 13.

[0165] Next, the control unit 11 receives the selection of setting history information by the user (step S170). The control unit 11 determines whether the setting history information selected by the user is setting history information related to the copying operation (step S180).

[0166] If it is determined that the selected setting history information is setting history information related to the copying job, the control unit 11 accepts the copying mode selection made by the user (step S180; yes → step S190).

[0167] The control unit 11 determines whether the copying mode selected by the user is the simplified mode (step S200). If the copying mode selected by the user is the simplified mode, the control unit 11 displays the simplified setting screen W10 on the display unit 13 (step S200; Yes → step S210). After the simplified setting screen W10 is displayed, based on the user's execution instruction, the control unit 11 performs a simplified copying operation and ends the process (step S220).

[0168] On the other hand, if the copying mode selected by the user is not the simplified mode, the control unit 11 displays the normal setting screen W20 on the display unit 13 (step S200; no → step S230). After the normal setting screen W20 is displayed, based on the user's execution instruction, the control unit 11 performs a normal copying operation and ends the process (step S240).

[0169] In addition, if it is determined in step S180 that the setting history information selected by the user is not the setting history information related to the copying job, the control unit 11, after displaying the setting screen with the setting value applied to the setting history information, executes the job corresponding to the setting history information based on the user's execution instruction and ends the process (step S180; no → step S250).

[0170] [2.2 Action Examples]

[0171] Figure 13 This is an example of the configuration of the home screen W40. The home screen W40 has a task selection button B29, a task status notification button B23c, and a display toggle button B25b.

[0172] The job selection button B29 is used to accept the user's desired job and various processing options. By pressing the simple copy button B31 included in the job selection button B29, the user can perform a copy job in simple mode. Additionally, by pressing the copy button B33, the user can perform a copy job in normal mode. The control unit 11 receives a press of the simple copy button B31 to display the simple setting screen W10. Similarly, the control unit 11 receives a press of the copy button B33 to display the normal setting screen W20. Furthermore, the setting history display button B17c is the same as in the first embodiment, used to receive display instruction input for the setting history display screen.

[0173] in addition, Figure 13 This example displays eight selectable job / processing items: "Easy Copy," "Easy Fax," "Easy Scan," "Print Publish," "Set History," "Shared Folder," "Scan and Save," and "Copy." However, other job / processing items can be displayed by pressing the display toggle button B25b. Furthermore, Figure 13 The example of the task selection button B29 is just one example and is not limited to... Figure 13 The recorded items.

[0174] The job status reporting button B23c is used to receive notifications of the job execution status.

[0175] Figure 14 Is Figure 12 In step S180, the setting history information selected by the user is setting history information related to the copy job, and it is an example of an action when the user is asked to select whether to perform the copy job based on the setting history information in normal mode or in simplified mode.

[0176] Furthermore, this action example is similar to... Figure 12 The processing is described in the flowchart. Here, the control unit 11 will set the state of the main screen W40 to "state 0", the state of the simplified setting screen W10 to "state 1", the state of the setting history display screen W30 to "state 2", and the state of the normal setting screen W20 to "state 3".

[0177] When the setting history display button B17c is pressed from state 0 (where the home screen W40 is displayed), the control unit 11 switches the display screen to the setting history display screen W30 (arrow 0-2 in the figure, state 2).

[0178] When the user selects setting history information related to the copy job in state 2, the control unit 11 displays the mode selection screen W50 (and...).Figure 12 (Corresponding to the processing of steps S180 to S200), the mode selection screen W50 is used to accept the mode selection of whether to perform a copy job based on the setting history information in normal mode or simple mode.

[0179] When the user selects the simplified mode via the mode selection screen W50, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W30 to the simplified setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1).

[0180] On the other hand, when the user selects the normal mode via the mode selection screen W50, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W30 to the normal setting screen W20 (arrows 2-3 in the figure, state 2 → state 3).

[0181] In addition, if the system settings prioritize either the simplified mode or the normal mode, it can be hidden. Figure 14 Instead of displaying the mode selection screen W50 as shown, this screen is set to show the setting screen corresponding to the preferred mode. Furthermore, if any settings in the selected setting history have been changed that cannot be altered by the user via the simplified setting screen W10, i.e., if setting history information that cannot be handled in simplified mode has been selected, the user can switch to normal mode first.

[0182] like Figure 14 As illustrated, the simplified setting screen W10 and the normal setting screen W20 can be switched appropriately by pressing the switching indicator buttons (normal setting button B21a or simplified setting button B21b) located on each setting screen. Therefore, for example, in simplified mode, if it is desired to change a setting value that cannot be changed, the user can easily and flexibly perform a copying operation by switching the display screen (mode) from the simplified setting screen W10 to the normal setting screen W20.

[0183] As described above, according to the second embodiment, a setting screen related to the execution of a task based on the setting history information can be selected based on the execution mode of the setting history information selected via the setting screen in the display (selection). Therefore, an information processing device can be provided that makes the execution of a task based on the setting history information via the setting screen desired by the user easy and convenient.

[0184] [3 Third Implementation]

[0185] The third embodiment is configured such that, when selecting setting history information in the simplified setting screen or the normal setting screen, one can choose whether to perform the operation in the normal mode via the normal setting screen or in the simplified mode via the simplified setting screen.

[0186] The functional configuration of the multifunction printer according to the third embodiment can be set to be the same as that of the multifunction printer 10 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of the functional configuration of the multifunction printer according to the third embodiment is omitted, and the same reference numerals as those used for the multifunction printer 10 according to the first embodiment are used for description.

[0187] [3.1 Processing Flow]

[0188] use Figure 15 and 16 The process flow involved in the third embodiment will be explained. Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating the process performed by the user selecting the simplified mode and via the simplified settings screen W10. Furthermore, regarding the aspects related to the first embodiment... Figure 5 or Figure 6 When the same parts are described in the figure, the same reference numerals are sometimes used and the description is omitted.

[0189] When the user selects the simplified mode, the control unit 11 accepts the selection of the simplified mode (step S41).

[0190] The control unit 11 displays a simplified setting screen W10 based on the received simplified mode on the display unit 13 (step S51).

[0191] After the simplified setup screen W10 is displayed, the control unit 11 receives the selection of setup history information by the user. Then, the control unit 11 determines whether the setup history information selected by the user is setup history information related to the copying job performed in normal mode (step S260).

[0192] If it is determined that the selected setting history information is setting history information related to a copy job performed in normal mode, the control unit 11 accepts the selection of a copy mode for performing a copy job related to the setting history information (step S260; Yes → step S270).

[0193] If the user selects the simplified mode during the execution of a copy job related to setting historical information, the control unit 11 displays the simplified setting screen W10 on the display unit 13 (step S280; Yes → step S130). Then, the control unit 11 executes a new copy job and ends the process (step S100).

[0194] On the other hand, if it is determined that the selected setting history information is not related to the setting history information of the copy job performed in normal mode, the control unit 11 displays the simplified setting screen W10 on the display unit 13 (step S260; no → step S130). Then, the control unit 11 executes a new copy job and ends the process (step S100).

[0195] Additionally, if the user does not select the simplified mode during the execution of a copy job related to setting historical information, the control unit 11 displays the normal setting screen W20 on the display unit 13 (step S280; no → step S140). Then, the control unit 11 executes a new copy job and ends the process (step S100).

[0196] Figure 16 This is a flowchart illustrating the process performed by the user selecting the normal easy mode and via the normal settings screen W20.

[0197] When the user selects the normal mode, the control unit 11 accepts the selection of the normal mode (step S43).

[0198] The control unit 11 displays the normal setting screen W20 based on the received normal mode on the display unit 13 (step S53).

[0199] After the normal settings screen W20 is displayed, the control unit 11 receives the settings history information selected by the user. Then, the control unit 11 determines whether the settings history information selected by the user is settings history information related to the copying job performed in the simplified mode (step S290).

[0200] If it is determined that the selected setting history information is setting history information related to the copy job performed in the simplified mode, the control unit 11 accepts the selection of the copy mode for performing the copy job related to the setting history information (step S290; Yes → step S300).

[0201] If the user selects the simplified mode during the execution of a copy job related to setting historical information, the control unit 11 displays the simplified setting screen W10 on the display unit 13 (step S310; Yes → step S130). Then, the control unit 11 executes a new copy job and ends the process (step S100).

[0202] On the other hand, if it is determined that the selected setting history information is not related to the copying job performed in the simplified mode, the control unit 11 displays the normal setting screen W20 on the display unit 13 (step S290; no → step S140). Then, the control unit 11 executes a new copying job and ends the process (step S100).

[0203] Additionally, if the user does not select the simplified mode during the execution of a copy job related to setting history information, the control unit 11 displays the normal setting screen W20 on the display unit 13 (step S310; no → step S140). Then, the control unit 11 executes a new copy job and ends the process (step S100).

[0204] [3.2 Action Examples]

[0205] Figure 17 This is an example of an action where, when the user selects the simplified mode and the settings history information selected through the simplified settings screen W10 is a task performed in normal mode, the user chooses whether to perform the task in normal mode through the normal settings screen or in simplified mode through the simplified settings screen.

[0206] This action example is similar to... Figure 15 The processing is described in the flowchart. Here, the control unit 11 will set the state of the simple setting screen W10 to "state 1" or "state 1a", the state of the setting history display screen W30 to "state 2", and the state of the normal setting screen W20 to "state 3".

[0207] When the setting history display button B17a is pressed from state 1, which displays the simple setting screen W10, the control unit 11 switches the display screen to the setting history display screen W30 (arrows 1-2 in the figure, state 2).

[0208] When the user selects setting history information related to a copy job performed in normal mode in state 2, the control unit 11 displays a mode selection screen W50, which is used to accept mode selection for whether to perform a copy job based on the setting history information in normal mode or simplified mode.

[0209] When the user selects the simplified mode via the mode selection screen W50, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W30 to the simplified setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1a in the figure, state 2 → state 1a).

[0210] On the other hand, when the user selects the normal mode via the mode selection screen W50, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W30 to the normal setting screen W20 (arrows 2-3 in the figure, state 2 → state 3).

[0211] Furthermore, when the user selects setting history information related to the copying job performed in simplified mode in state 2, the control unit 11 does not display the mode selection screen W50, but switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W30 to the simplified setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1a in the figure, state 2 → state 1a).

[0212] Figure 18 This is an example of an action where, when the user selects the normal mode and the setting history information selected via the normal setting screen W20 is an operation performed in the simplified mode, the user chooses whether to perform the operation in the normal mode via the normal setting screen or in the simplified mode via the simplified setting screen.

[0213] This action example is similar to... Figure 16 The processing is described in the flowchart. Here, the control unit 11 will set the state of the simple setting screen W10 to "state 1", the state of the setting history display screen W30 to "state 2", and the state of the normal setting screen W20 to "state 3" or "state 3a".

[0214] When the setting history display button B17b is pressed from state 3, which displays the normal setting screen W20, the control unit 11 switches the display screen to the setting history display screen W30 (arrow 3-2 in the figure, state 2).

[0215] When the user selects setting history information related to the copy job to be performed in simplified mode in state 2, the control unit 11 displays the mode selection screen W50, which is used to accept the mode selection of whether to perform the copy job based on the setting history information in normal mode or simplified mode.

[0216] When the user selects the simplified mode via the mode selection screen W50, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W30 to the simplified setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 1).

[0217] On the other hand, when the user selects the normal mode via the mode selection screen W50, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W30 to the normal setting screen W20 (arrows 2-3a and state 3a in the figure).

[0218] Furthermore, when the user selects setting history information related to a copy job performed in normal mode in state 2, the control unit 11 does not display the mode selection screen W50, but switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W30 to the normal setting screen W20 (arrows 2-3a and state 3a in the figure).

[0219] As described above, according to the third embodiment, when setting history information is selected in the simplified setting screen or the normal setting screen, it is possible to choose whether to perform the operation in the normal mode via the normal setting screen or in the simplified mode via the simplified setting screen. Therefore, it is possible to provide an information processing device that makes it easy and convenient to perform the operation based on the setting history information via the setting screen desired by the user.

[0220] [4 Fourth Implementation Method]

[0221] The fourth embodiment is configured to utilize historical setting information related to the operation when the user authentication is valid.

[0222] The functional configuration of the multifunction printer according to the fourth embodiment can be set to be the same as that of the multifunction printer 10 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of the functional configuration of the multifunction printer according to the fourth embodiment is omitted, and the same reference numerals as those used for the multifunction printer 10 according to the first embodiment are used for description.

[0223] [4.1 Processing Flow]

[0224] use Figure 19 The flowchart illustrates the process of handling the situation when user authentication is valid, utilizing historical setting information related to the job. Furthermore, in this explanation, the process related to the second embodiment is discussed. Figure 12 For parts that are the same as those described in the flowchart, label them with the same step number.

[0225] The control unit 11 displays the login screen on the display unit 13 (step S320). For example, the control unit 11 displays the login screen when the power is turned on, during standby, or when resuming from hibernation.

[0226] The control unit 11 accepts input of user authentication information, such as login username and password, and performs user authentication. In this case, the control unit 11 can perform user authentication by comparing the combination of login username and password entered by the user with a combination of login username and password pre-registered on the machine. Alternatively, user authentication can be performed by an external authentication server. In this case, the authentication server stores the login username and password used for user authentication. Furthermore, in addition to the combination of login username and password, user authentication can also be performed using combinations of identification numbers, registration numbers, etc., along with login passwords; tokens; keys; IC (Integrated Circuit) cards; smartphones; and biometric authentication such as fingerprint authentication and facial recognition.

[0227] If the user authentication is OK, the control unit 11 displays the home screen W40 on the display unit 13 (step S330; Yes → step S150).

[0228] If the user inputs a setting instruction for displaying historical information (step S160), the control unit 11 will display the setting historical information display screen W30 on the display unit 13.

[0229] Next, the control unit 11 receives the selection of setting history information by the user (step S170). The control unit 11 determines whether the setting history information selected by the user is setting history information related to the copying operation (step S180).

[0230] If the setting history information selected by the user is setting history information related to a copying job, the control unit 11 determines whether the setting history information is setting history information related to another person's execution job (step S180; yes → step S340).

[0231] If the historical setting information is related to the historical setting information of another person's operation, the control unit 11 displays the simplified setting screen W10 (step S340; Yes → step S210). After the simplified setting screen W10 is displayed, based on the user's execution instruction, the control unit 11 executes a simplified copying operation (step S220) and ends the process.

[0232] In this case, it can also be configured, for example, based on the execution frequency of copy jobs in simplified mode, or a system setting that prioritizes simplified mode for copy jobs, even if the selected other person's configuration history information is related to the normal mode's configuration history information, to switch to simplified mode. Furthermore, if the copy job execution frequency in simplified mode is low, simply switch to the same mode as the copy job associated with the selected configuration history information.

[0233] On the other hand, if the setting history information is not related to the setting history information of other people's execution of operations, the control unit 11 sets the selected setting history information to the setting history information based on the logged-in user and performs a mode determination of the setting history information (step S340; no → step S350).

[0234] If the setting history information is related to the simplified mode operation of the logged-in user, the control unit 11 displays the simplified setting screen W10 (step S360; Yes → step S210). Then, the control unit 11 performs a simplified copying operation based on the user's instructions and ends the process (step S220).

[0235] On the other hand, if the setting history information is related to the normal mode operation of the logged-in user (not the setting history information related to the simplified mode operation), the control unit 11 displays the normal setting screen W20 (step S360; no → step S230). Then, the control unit 11 performs a normal copying operation based on the user's instructions and ends the process (step S240).

[0236] [4.2 Action Examples]

[0237] Figure 20 This is an example of a user authentication screen W60. The user authentication screen W60 includes a login username input box Bx11, a login password input box Bx13, an authentication destination input box Bx15, a work status notification button B23c, an OK button B35, and a cancel button B37.

[0238] The login username input field Bx11 is used to accept the login username. The login password input field Bx13 is used to accept the login password. The authentication destination input field Bx15 is used to accept the authentication destination related to user authentication. The OK button B35 is used to confirm the input of the login username input field Bx11, the login password input field Bx13, and the authentication destination input field Bx15. The Cancel button B37 is used to cancel the user authentication process via the user authentication screen W60.

[0239] Figure 21 This is an example of an action taken when the user authentication is valid, utilizing configuration history information related to copy jobs performed by a user other than the logged-in user. This example of an action is related to... Figure 19 Steps S320 to S340 correspond to the processing described in steps S220. Here, the control unit 11 will set the state of the user authentication screen W60 to "state a", the state of the home screen W40 to "state 0", the state of the setting history display screen W30 to "state 2", and the state of the simple setting screen W10 to "state 1".

[0240] If user authentication is successful in state a, where user authentication screen W60 is displayed, the control unit 11 switches the display screen to home screen W40 (arrow a-0, state 0 in the figure).

[0241] When the setting history display button B17c is pressed from state 0 (where the home screen W40 is displayed), the control unit 11 switches the display screen to the setting history display screen W30 (arrow 0-2 in the figure, state 2).

[0242] When a logged-in user selects another person's copy job in state 2 (normal mode), the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W30 to the simplified setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 1). In this case, it can also be configured to switch to simplified mode, for example, based on the execution frequency of copy jobs in simplified mode, or a system setting such as "preferring other people's copy jobs to be executed in simplified mode." Alternatively, if the execution frequency of copy jobs in simplified mode is low, the system can switch to the same mode as the copy job related to the setting history information selected by the user.

[0243] Figure 22 This is an example of an action taken when the user authentication is valid, utilizing configuration history information related to the copying job performed by the logged-in user. This example of an action is similar to... Figure 19 Steps S320 to S340; No to the processing described in step S240. Here, the control unit 11 will set the state of the user authentication screen W60 to "state a", the state of the home screen W40 to "state 0", the state of the setting history display screen W30 to "state 2", the state of the simple setting screen W10 to "state 1", and the state of the normal setting screen W20 to "state 3".

[0244] If user authentication is successful in state a, where user authentication screen W60 is displayed, the control unit 11 switches the display screen to home screen W40 (arrow a-0, state 0 in the figure).

[0245] When the setting history display button B17c is pressed from state 0 (where the home screen W40 is displayed), the control unit 11 switches the display screen to the setting history display screen W30 (arrow 0-2 in the figure, state 2).

[0246] When the logged-in user selects their own copy job (simple mode or normal mode) in state 2, the control unit 11 switches from the setting history display screen W30 to the display screen for executing a job in either the simple setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 1) or the normal setting screen W20 (arrow 2-3 in the figure, state 3).

[0247] As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, when user authentication is valid, a setting screen related to the execution of a task based on the setting history information associated with the logged-in user or other users is selected. Therefore, an information processing device is able to provide a setting history information that makes the execution of a task based on the setting screen desired by the user easy and convenient.

[0248] [5 Fifth Implementation Method]

[0249] The fifth embodiment is configured as a multifunction printer capable of performing tasks via a setting screen. This setting screen is either a normal setting screen, which allows for all settings related to the execution of the task, or a simplified setting screen, which simplifies (limits) the display content of the normal setting screen. Furthermore, the execution (operation) mode of the task via the normal setting screen is referred to as "normal mode," and the execution (operation) mode of the task via the simplified setting screen is referred to as "simplified mode."

[0250] [5.1 Functional Composition]

[0251] The functional configuration of the multifunction printer according to the fifth embodiment can be set to be the same as that of the multifunction printer 10 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, in the fifth embodiment, the same reference numerals are used to mark configurations that are the same as those in the multifunction printer 10 according to the first embodiment. Furthermore, even for functional configurations with the same name, additional explanations are provided for the parts that need to be described.

[0252] In the fifth embodiment, the storage unit 23 stores the operation execution program 231, the setting history information processing program 232, the display processing program 233, and the mode judgment program 234, and ensures the setting value storage area 235, the setting history information storage area 236, and the display content storage area 237.

[0253] The setting history information processing program 232 is a program read by the control unit 11 during tasks such as acquiring setting values ​​related to job execution, generating setting history information, and performing various processing on the setting history information. The control unit 11, which reads the setting history information processing program 232, acquires the setting values ​​involved in job execution and stores them in the setting value storage area 235. Furthermore, the control unit 11 generates setting history information based on the acquired setting values ​​and stores it in the setting history information storage area 236. In addition, the control unit 11, which reads the setting history information processing program 232, also functions as a history management unit. This history management unit manages the operation mode (normal mode or simple mode) and manages the history of the communication unit 17 as job type (fax or image transmission).

[0254] The setting value storage area 235 is a storage area for setting values ​​related to the execution of the job. Setting values ​​include, for example, user-set setting values ​​such as fax / image, original size, original orientation, density, and image quality, as well as device initial values ​​maintained by the device itself.

[0255] The setting history information storage area 236 is a storage area that stores setting history information in the form of data tables, etc. According to this disclosure, the setting history information can be configured such that, for example, for information consisting of a combination of information related to the execution history of a job (such as job type, execution username, execution date and time, mode, etc.) and some or all of the setting values ​​stored in the setting value storage area 235, an identifier such as a job ID is attached to uniquely identify the information. The setting history information stored in the setting history information storage area 236 is appropriately retrieved during job execution, mode determination, etc., based on the setting history information.

[0256] Figure 23This diagram illustrates an example of the configuration of historical settings information. For instance, as information related to the execution history, the historical settings information for job ID "025" includes: "Job Type": Fax, "Executor Username": Yamada, "File Name": document03, "Page / Group Number": 002 / 001, "Start Date / Time - End Date / Time": 2019 / 12 / 04 10:30:50 - 2019 / 12 / 04 10:32:50, "Mode": Normal (Normal Mode). Additionally, the historical settings information includes settings such as "Fax / Image": Fax, "Original Size": A4, "Original Orientation": Landscape, ..., "Card Scan": No, etc. Furthermore, Figure 23 The settings are merely illustrative, and the settings in this disclosure are not limited to... Figure 23 The recorded information. For example, in fax jobs, image transmission jobs, etc., when the destination of the generated fax data or image data is specified through the address book, transmission history, or direct input, this destination information can also be included as a setting value.

[0257] [5.2 Processing Flow]

[0258] Next, the processing flow involved in the fifth embodiment will be described. Furthermore, the processing related to the generation and storage of setting history information based on the operations already performed by the multifunction printer 10 can be performed in accordance with the first embodiment. Figure 4 The process described herein is the same, so the description here is omitted. Furthermore, in the following description, a fax job or image transmission job is assumed as one method of operation performed by the multifunction printer 10, but this process can also be applied to copying jobs, etc.

[0259] First, use Figure 24 The flowchart illustrates the process of executing a new job using the setting history information stored in the setting history information storage area 236.

[0260] When executing a task, the user can choose whether to execute it in normal mode via the normal settings screen or in simplified mode via the simplified settings screen. In this case, the user can also select either normal mode or simplified mode via the home screen described later.

[0261] When the user selects either the normal mode or the simplified mode, the control unit 11 accepts the mode selection (step S40).

[0262] The control unit 11 reads the display processing program 233 and displays a setting screen (normal setting screen or simple setting screen) based on the received mode on the display unit 13 (step S50).

[0263] After the setting screen is displayed, the control unit 11 determines whether the execution of the operation utilizes the stored setting history information (step S60). In this case, the control unit 11 can also determine whether to utilize the stored setting history information based on the input of the setting history information display command.

[0264] If it is determined that the setting history information is being used, the control unit 11 displays a setting screen on the display unit 13 that applies the setting value selected by the user from the setting history information (step S70).

[0265] If the control unit 11 receives a new operation execution instruction via the setting screen displayed on the display unit 13, it executes the operation based on the setting history information (step S80).

[0266] Furthermore, if it is determined that the historical setting information is not to be used (step S60: "No"), if the control unit 11 receives a new operation execution instruction via the setting screen displayed on the display unit 13 in step S50, then the operation is executed (step S80).

[0267] Furthermore, the settings related to the operation performed in step S80 can be obtained through... Figure 4 Step S30 involves the same process of generating / storing historical information.

[0268] Next, use Figure 25 The flowchart, for Figure 24 The process of "displaying the setting screen with the applied settings" involved in step 70 will be explained.

[0269] Control unit 11 is based on Figure 24 In step S50, the user selects a mode to determine whether the displayed setting screen is a simplified setting screen (step S90).

[0270] If it is determined that the displayed setting screen is a simplified setting screen (step S90; Yes), the control unit 11 determines whether the selected setting history information is setting history information related to normal mode operation (step S90; Yes → step S110).

[0271] In addition, if the control unit 11 determines that the displayed setting screen is not a simple setting screen but a normal setting screen (step S90; no → step S100), it also determines whether the selected setting history information is setting history information related to normal mode operation (step S100 → step S110).

[0272] If the selected setting history information is determined to be setting history information related to normal mode operation, the control unit 11 determines whether the normal mode operation related to the setting history information can be handled in simplified mode (step S110; yes → step S120).

[0273] When it is determined that the normal mode operation can be handled in the simplified mode, the control unit 11 displays the simplified setting screen with the setting history information setting value applied on the display unit 13 (step S120; yes → step S130).

[0274] On the other hand, if it is determined that the normal mode operation cannot be handled in the simplified mode, the control unit 11 displays the normal setting screen with the setting value applied by the setting history information on the display unit 13 (step S120; no → step S140).

[0275] The control unit 11 performs operations based on the setting values ​​displayed in either the simplified setting screen or the normal setting screen, and then ends the process (step S150).

[0276] [5.3 Action Examples]

[0277] Next, an example of operation of the fifth embodiment will be described. In this disclosure, the touch panel-type operation input unit 15 provided on the screen of the display unit 13 detects when the user presses on each button area divided on the screen, and enables each input by the user to be realized. Figure 26 (a) is a configuration example of a simplified setup screen W10 related to fax operations. Figure 26 (b) is an example of a configuration of the general settings screen W20 related to fax operations. The simplified settings screen W10, for example, allows users to... Figure 24 In step S40, the user-based mode selection processing of the home screen (described later) is performed, and the screen is displayed via the normal setting screen W20. The normal setting screen W20, for example, is displayed in the same way as the simplified setting screen W10, and can be displayed via the user-based mode selection processing of the home screen, and via the simplified setting screen W10.

[0278] Compared to the standard setup screen W20, the simplified setup screen W10 does not limit the number of settings that can be configured by the user, resulting in a simpler screen structure. The simplified setup screen W10 includes a setting value button B11a, an action control button B13a, a start button B15a, a standard setting button B17a, a work status notification button B19a, a display switching button B21a, and a destination display area R11a.

[0279] The setting button B11a accepts the selection and input of setting values ​​that can be set by the user via the simple setting screen W10. For example, the user can press the address book button to set the destination of the fax to the setting value from the displayed address book (not shown). Figure 26 Example (a) shows three setting items: "Address Book," "Send History," and "Direct Input." Other setting items can be displayed by pressing the display toggle button B21a.

[0280] The action control button B13a includes, for example, a reset button, a preview button, a setting history display button B23a, and a manual receive button. For instance, the reset button is used to reset settings selected or entered via setting value buttons such as B11a. The preview button is used to display a preview image before performing a fax job. The setting history display button B23a is used to display the setting history display screen, described later. The manual receive button is used to input manual reception of faxes performed by the user.

[0281] The start button B15a is used to accept input of instructions to execute a fax job. When the start button B15a is pressed, the control unit 11 performs processing related to the fax job.

[0282] Normal setting button B17a is used to accept the display switching instruction to the normal setting screen W20.

[0283] The job status reporting button B19a is used to receive notifications of the job execution status.

[0284] The destination display area R11a is the area that displays the destination of faxes sent via any of the selections or inputs made through the address book, sending history, or direct input via the setting value button B11a.

[0285] Figure 26 The normal setting screen W20 shown in (b) is configured to perform all settings related to the execution of fax jobs. The normal setting screen W20 includes a setting value button B11b, an action control button B13b, a start button B15b, a job status notification button B19b, and a destination display area R11b.

[0286] The setting value button B11b is used to accept the selection and input of setting values ​​that can be set by the user. For example, the user can press the concentration button to select the desired setting value from items such as "stronger", "normal", "lighter", and "auto" (not shown) related to concentration selection, thereby setting the concentration-related setting value. Figure 26 (b) is an example of a set of settings that can be configured, including seven settings: "Density," "Image Quality," "Original," "Large Original Mode," "Thin Paper Import," "Thick Paper Import," and "Mixed Originals." Furthermore, the settings displayed on the surface of the setting button B11b reflect the applied setting history information. Figure 26 (b) is an application Figure 23 (Example of the setting value for the setting history information of job ID "025"). Furthermore... Figure 26 The configuration of the setting button B11b illustrated in (b) is merely an example and is not limited to... Figure 26 (b) The recorded items.

[0287] In addition to the aforementioned setting value items, the setting value button B11b also has "other functions". By pressing "other functions", users can bring up other setting value items besides the displayed setting value items and select or input setting values.

[0288] In addition to the preview and reset buttons, the action control button B13b also features extended function buttons such as "Search Global Address Book," "Call with Search Number," and "Send Directly." For example, pressing the "Search Global Address Book" button allows you to select the destination for the fax from the global address book.

[0289] Additionally, the motion control button B13b includes a setting history display button B23b and a simple setting button B17b. The setting history display button B23b is used to receive display instructions for the setting history display screen, which will be described later. The simple setting button B17b is used to receive instructions to switch the display to the simple setting screen W10.

[0290] The start button B15b is used to accept input of instructions to execute a fax job. When the start button B15b is pressed, the control unit 11 performs processing related to the fax job.

[0291] The job status reporting button B19b is used to receive reports on the job execution status.

[0292] The destination display area R11b is a display area that shows the fax destination selected from any of the options entered via the address book, sending history, or direct input from the fax number input area R15 located approximately in the center of the normal settings screen W20.

[0293] Figure 27 (a) is a configuration example of a simplified setup screen W80 related to image transmission operations. Figure 27 (b) is a configuration example of a typical settings screen W90 related to image transmission operations. The simplified settings screen W80, for example, allows users to... Figure 24 In step S40, the user-based mode selection processing of the home screen (described later) is performed, and the screen is displayed via the normal settings screen W90. The normal settings screen W90, for example, is displayed in the same way as the simplified settings screen W80, through the user-based mode selection processing of the home screen, and via the simplified settings screen W80.

[0294] Compared to the standard setup screen W90, the simplified setup screen W80 does not limit the number of user-configurable settings, resulting in a simpler screen structure. The simplified setup screen W80 includes a setting value button B11c, an action control button B13c, a start button B15c, a standard setting button B17c, a work status notification button B19c, a display switching button B21c, and a destination display area R11c.

[0295] The B11c setting button on the W80's simplified setting screen allows users to select and input settings. For example, users can press the address book button to set the destination for sending scanned image data from the displayed (not shown) address book. Figure 27 (a) shows an example where four setting items are displayed as configurable settings: "Address Book," "Sending History," "Sending History," and "Retrieve Global Address." Additionally, other setting items can be displayed by pressing the display toggle button B21c.

[0296] The motion control buttons B13c include, for example, a reset button, a preview button, an auto-setting button, and a setting history display button B23c. For instance, the reset button is used to reset settings selected or entered via setting value buttons such as B11c. The preview button is used to display a preview image before performing an image transmission operation. The auto-setting button is used to apply device settings configured in the system settings. The setting history display button B23c is used to display the setting history display screen, described later.

[0297] The start button B15c includes a black-and-white start button and a color start button. The user presses the black-and-white start button when a black-and-white image is desired to be transmitted. Conversely, the user presses the color start button when a color image is desired to be transmitted. When the user presses either the black-and-white start button or the color start button, the control unit 11 performs processing related to the image transmission operation.

[0298] Normal setting button B17c is used to accept the display switching instruction to the normal setting screen W90.

[0299] The job status reporting button B19c is used to receive notifications of the job execution status.

[0300] The destination display area R11c is a display area that shows the destination of image data selected or entered via the address book, transmission history, global address retrieval, or main body / device save via the setting value button B11c.

[0301] then, Figure 27 The normal setting screen W90 shown in (b) is a screen configuration that allows for all settings related to the execution of image transmission jobs. The normal setting screen W90 includes a setting value button B11d, an action control button B13d, a start button B15d, a job status notification button B19d, and a destination display area R11d.

[0302] The setting value button B11d is used to accept the selection and input of setting values ​​that can be set by the user. For example, by pressing the color mode button, the user can select the desired setting value from items such as "full color", "black and white", "monochrome color" and "auto (color / black and white)" (not shown) which are related to the color mode selection, thereby setting the setting value related to the color mode. Figure 27 (b) is an example where five setting items are provided as configurable settings: "Color Mode," "Resolution," "Format," "Original," and "Density." Furthermore, the setting values ​​displayed on the surface of the setting button B11d reflect the selected setting history information. Figure 27 (b) is an application Figure 23 (Example of the setting history information for job ID "023"). Furthermore... Figure 27 The configuration of the setting button B11d illustrated in (b) is merely an example and is not limited to... Figure 27 (b) The recorded items.

[0303] In addition to the aforementioned setting value items, the setting value button B11d also has "other functions". By pressing "other functions", users can bring up other setting value items besides the displayed setting value items and select or input setting values.

[0304] In addition to the preview and reset buttons, the B13d motion control buttons also include extended function buttons such as "Search Global Address Book," "Retrieve by Search Number," and "Retrieve Program." For example, pressing the "Search Global Address Book" button allows you to select the destination for sending image data from the global address book.

[0305] Additionally, the motion control button B13d includes a setting history display button B23d and a simple setting button B17d. The setting history display button B23d is used to receive display instructions for the setting history display screen, which will be described later. The simple setting button B17d is used to receive instructions to switch to the simple setting screen W80.

[0306] The start button B15d is used to accept input of instructions to execute an image transmission job. When the start button B15d is pressed, the control unit 11 performs processing related to the image transmission job.

[0307] The "Work Status Report" button B19d is used to receive reports on the execution status of a work.

[0308] The destination display area R11d is the area that displays the destination of image data sent via any of the selections or inputs from the address book, sending history, or direct input.

[0309] Figure 28 This is a component of the W100's history display screen. For example, by pressing... Figure 26 or Figure 27 The settings history display buttons B23a to B23d shown in the example, or the settings history display button on the home screen described later, can display the settings history display screen W100 at any time.

[0310] The settings history display screen W100 includes a settings history display area R13 and a delete all button B25. The settings history display area R13 is configured to display settings history information related to each task in chronological order. Furthermore, there are no particular restrictions on the display method of the settings history information; for example, ... Figure 28As illustrated in the example, when the multifunction printer 10, which displays setting history information related to all jobs or only the setting history information related to a specific job, has a user authentication function, the following display methods can be used: displaying setting history information related to jobs of the logged-in user, displaying setting history information with the same setting value, displaying setting history information related to jobs executed within a specific period, and displaying setting history information related to a specific job execution user.

[0311] Figure 28 This is an example of displaying the configuration history information related to five jobs—regular fax, simple fax, regular image transmission, simple image transmission, and simple copying—in chronological order from top to bottom. Furthermore, Figure 28 The three types of superior setting history information are used as... Figure 23 The example shown is an example of the information displayed corresponding to the historical settings information of the job IDs “025” to “023”.

[0312] Here, in the history display area R13, each display area (the part related to fax jobs) displays the job type in a specific mode (e.g., fax job in normal mode: normal fax), the start date and time of the job, and a portion of the settings. Figure 28 This is an example of displaying the three setting items: "Density", "Image Quality" and "Original". However, the setting items displayed can be selected appropriately.

[0313] Furthermore, the various configuration history information displayed in the configuration history display area R13 are designed to be selectable by the user. By selecting the desired configuration history information, the user can easily perform a task based on that configuration history information or a similar task. For example, when the configuration history information related to simple fax (corresponding to "Job ID" 024) enclosed by the dashed box in the figure is selected, the screen can be switched to... Figure 26 The simplified settings screen W10 is illustrated in (a). In this case, the selected settings history information can also be dimmed to make it easier to access the selected settings history information.

[0314] The delete all button B25 is used to receive instructions from the setting history display area R13 to delete setting history information. When the user presses the delete all button B25, the control unit 11 stops displaying the setting history information in the setting history display area R11.

[0315] then, Figure 29 Is Figure 24In step S40, when the user selects the normal mode related to the fax job, the action example is related to the setting history information selected via the normal setting screen W20 and the job performed in the normal mode (normal setting screen W20).

[0316] Furthermore, this action example is similar to... Figure 24 and Figure 25 The processing is described in the flowchart. Here, the control unit 11 will set the state of the simple setting screen W10 to "state 1", the state of the setting history display screen W100 to "state 2", and the state of the normal setting screen W20 to "state 3".

[0317] When the setting history display button B23a is pressed from state 1, which displays the simple setting screen W10, the control unit 11 switches the display screen to the setting history display screen W100 (arrows 1-2 in the figure, state 1 → state 2).

[0318] When the user selects setting history information related to a fax job in state 2, the control unit 11 determines whether the selected setting history information pertains to a fax job executed in normal mode (and...). Figure 25 (This corresponds to step S110). In this case, the control unit 11 can determine whether the selected setting history information is a fax job performed in normal mode by referring to the "mode" item included in the selected setting history information.

[0319] If the control unit 11 determines that the fax operation selected by the user is a fax job executed in normal mode, it further determines whether the fax job can be handled in simplified mode (corresponding to...). Figure 25 Step S110; Yes → Step S120 processing). In this case, the control unit 11 refers to the setting values ​​in the setting history information to confirm the setting values ​​that the user cannot change via the simplified setting screen W10 (such as the bulk document function, thin / thick paper reading function, etc.). The control unit 11 can determine that if no changes are made to these setting values, it can be handled in the simplified mode.

[0320] If it is determined that the fax operation can be handled in simplified mode, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the simplified setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1). Additionally, if it is determined that the setting history information selected by the user is a fax operation executed in simplified mode, the control unit 11 also switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the simplified setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1).

[0321] As the display screen transitions from state 2 to state 1, the control unit 11 displays the settings selected by the user for the historical settings information on the display unit 13.

[0322] On the other hand, if a setting value that cannot be changed by the user through the simplified setting screen W10 is changed, the control unit 11 determines that it cannot be handled in the simplified mode. Then, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the normal setting screen W20 (arrows 2-3 in the figure, state 2 → state 3).

[0323] As the display screen transitions from state 2 to state 3, the control unit 11 displays the settings of the user-selected historical settings information on the display unit 13 in the state of applying the settings of the user-selected historical settings information to the normal settings screen W20.

[0324] In addition, such as Figure 26 As illustrated, the simplified setup screen W10 and the normal setup screen W20 can be switched appropriately by pressing the display switching indicator buttons (normal setup button B17a or simplified setup button B17b) located on each setup screen. Therefore, for example, in simplified mode, if it is desired to change a setting value that cannot be changed, the user can easily and flexibly perform fax operations by switching the display screen (mode) from the simplified setup screen W10 to the normal setup screen W20.

[0325] Figure 30 Is Figure 24 In step S40, when the user selects the normal mode, the action example is related to the setting history information selected via the normal setting screen W20 and the operation performed in the normal mode (normal setting screen W20).

[0326] When the setting history display button B23b is pressed from state 3, which displays the normal setting screen W20, the control unit 11 switches the display screen to the setting history display screen W100 (arrow 3-2 in the figure, state 3 → state 2).

[0327] When the user selects setting history information related to a fax job in state 2, the control unit 11 determines whether the selected setting history information pertains to a fax job executed in normal mode (and...). Figure 25 (This corresponds to step S110). In this case, the control unit 11 can determine whether the selected setting history information is a fax job performed in normal mode by referring to the "mode" item included in the selected setting history information.

[0328] If the control unit 11 determines that the fax operation selected by the user is a fax job executed in normal mode, it further determines whether the fax job can be handled in simplified mode (corresponding to...). Figure 25 Step S110; Yes → Step S120 processing). In this case, the control unit 11 refers to the setting values ​​in the setting history information to confirm the setting values ​​that the user cannot change via the simplified setting screen W10 (e.g., bulk original function, thin / thick paper reading function, etc.). The control unit 11 determines that the situation where no changes are made to these setting values ​​can be handled in simplified mode. Then, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the simplified setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1). In addition, if it is determined that the setting history information selected by the user is a fax operation performed in simplified mode, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the simplified setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1).

[0329] As the display screen transitions from state 2 to state 1, the control unit 11 displays the settings selected by the user for the historical settings information on the display unit 13.

[0330] Furthermore, if a setting value that cannot be changed by the user via the simplified setting screen W10 is modified, the control unit 11 determines that it cannot be handled in simplified mode. Then, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the normal setting screen W20 (arrows 2-3 in the figure, state 2 → state 3).

[0331] As the display screen transitions from state 2 to state 3, the control unit 11 displays the settings of the user-selected historical settings information on the display unit 13 in the state of applying the settings of the user-selected historical settings information to the normal settings screen W20.

[0332] In addition, such as Figure 26 As illustrated, the simplified setting screen W10 and the normal setting screen W20 can be switched appropriately by pressing the switching indicator buttons (normal setting button B17a and simplified setting button B17b) located on each setting screen. Therefore, for example, in simplified mode, if it is desired to change a setting value that cannot be changed, the user can easily and flexibly perform fax operations by switching the display screen (mode) from simplified setting screen W10 (state 1) to normal setting screen W20 (state 3).

[0333] Figure 31 Is Figure 24In step S40, when the user selects the simplified mode related to the image transmission job, the action example is related to the setting history information selected through the simplified setting screen W80 and the job performed in the normal mode (normal setting screen W90).

[0334] Furthermore, this action example is similar to... Figure 24 and Figure 25 The processing is described in the flowchart. Here, the control unit 11 will set the state of the simple setting screen W80 to "state 1", the state of the setting history display screen W100 to "state 2", and the state of the normal setting screen W90 to "state 3".

[0335] When the setting history display button B23c is pressed from state 1, which displays the simple setting screen W80, the control unit 11 switches the display screen to the setting history display screen W100 (arrows 1-2 in the figure, state 1 → state 2).

[0336] When the user selects setting history information related to an image transmission job in state 2, the control unit 11 determines whether the selected setting history information pertains to an image transmission job executed in normal mode (corresponding to...). Figure 25 (Processing step S110). In this case, the control unit 11 can determine whether the image transmission operation was performed in the normal mode by referring to the "mode" item included in the selected setting history information.

[0337] If the control unit 11 determines that the image transmission operation selected by the user is an image transmission job executed in normal mode, it further determines whether the image transmission job can be handled in simplified mode (corresponding to...). Figure 25 Step S110; Yes → Step S120 processing). In this case, the control unit 11 refers to the setting values ​​in the setting history information to confirm the setting values ​​that the user cannot change via the simplified setting screen W80 (such as compression ratio function, compression format function, etc.). The control unit 11 can determine that if no changes are made to these setting values, it can be handled in simplified mode.

[0338] If it is determined that the image transmission operation can be handled in simplified mode, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the simplified setting screen W80 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1). Additionally, if it is determined that the setting history information selected by the user is an image transmission operation to be performed in simplified mode, the control unit 11 also switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the simplified setting screen W80 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1).

[0339] As the display screen transitions from state 2 to state 1, the control unit 11 displays the settings selected by the user for the historical settings information on the display unit 13.

[0340] On the other hand, if a setting value that cannot be changed by the user through the simplified setting screen W80 is changed, the control unit 11 determines that it cannot be handled in the simplified mode. Then, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the normal setting screen W90 (arrows 2-3 in the figure, state 2 → state 3).

[0341] As the display screen transitions from state 2 to state 3, the control unit 11 displays the settings selected by the user for the historical settings information on the display unit 13.

[0342] In addition, such as Figure 27 As illustrated, the simplified setting screen W80 and the normal setting screen W90 can be switched appropriately by pressing the display switching indicator buttons (normal setting button B17c or simplified setting button B17d) located on each setting screen. Therefore, for example, in simplified mode, if it is desired to change a setting value that cannot be changed, the user can easily and flexibly perform image transmission operations by switching the display screen (mode) from the simplified setting screen W80 to the normal setting screen W90.

[0343] Figure 32 Is Figure 24 In step S40, when the user selects the normal mode, the action example is related to the setting history information selected via the normal setting screen W90 and the operation performed in the normal mode (normal setting screen W90).

[0344] When the setting history display button B23d is pressed from state 3, which displays the normal setting screen W90, the control unit 11 switches the display screen to the setting history display screen W100 (arrow 3-2 in the figure, state 3 → state 2).

[0345] When the user selects setting history information related to an image transmission job in state 2, the control unit 11 determines whether the selected setting history information pertains to an image transmission job executed in normal mode (and...). Figure 25 (This corresponds to step S110). In this case, the control unit 11 can determine whether the image transmission operation was performed in the normal mode by referring to the "mode" item included in the selected setting history information.

[0346] If the control unit 11 determines that the image transmission operation selected by the user is an image transmission job executed in normal mode, it further determines whether the image transmission job can be handled in simplified mode (corresponding to...). Figure 25 Step S110; Yes → Step S120 processing). In this case, the control unit 11 refers to the setting values ​​in the setting history information and confirms the setting values ​​that the user cannot change via the simplified setting screen W80 (e.g., compression ratio function, compression format function, etc.). The control unit 11 determines that the situation where no changes are made to these setting values ​​can be handled in simplified mode. Then, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the simplified setting screen W80 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1). In addition, if it is determined that the setting history information selected by the user is an image transmission operation performed in simplified mode, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the simplified setting screen W80 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1).

[0347] As the display screen transitions from state 2 to state 1, the control unit 11 displays the settings selected by the user for the historical settings information on the display unit 13.

[0348] Furthermore, if a setting value that cannot be changed by the user via the simplified setting screen W80 is modified, the control unit 11 determines that it cannot be handled in simplified mode. Then, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the normal setting screen W90 (arrows 2-3 in the figure, state 2 → state 3).

[0349] As the display screen transitions from state 2 to state 3, the control unit 11 displays the settings selected by the user for the historical settings information on the display unit 13.

[0350] In addition, such as Figure 27 As illustrated, the simplified setting screen W80 and the normal setting screen W90 can be switched appropriately by pressing the switching indicator buttons (normal setting button B17c and simplified setting button B17d) located on each setting screen. Therefore, for example, in simplified mode, if it is desired to change a setting value that cannot be changed, the user can easily and flexibly perform image transmission operations by switching the display screen (mode) from the simplified setting screen W10 (state 1) to the normal setting screen W20 (state 3).

[0351] As described above, according to the fifth embodiment, when the first operation mode associated with the setting screen that receives the display instruction for the history record is different from the second operation mode associated with the selected history record, and when the operation of the second operation mode associated with the history record can be performed in the first operation mode, the setting screen corresponding to the first operation mode can be displayed. Therefore, an image communication device can be provided that makes it easy and convenient to perform operations based on the setting history record information via the setting screen desired by the user.

[0352] [6 Sixth Implementation Method]

[0353] The sixth embodiment is configured such that, when selecting setting history information via the home screen which serves as the acceptance screen, it is possible to select whether to perform the operation in the normal mode via the normal setting screen or in the simplified mode via the simplified setting screen.

[0354] The functional configuration of the multifunction printer according to the sixth embodiment can be set to be the same as that of the multifunction printer 10 according to the fifth embodiment. Therefore, the description of the functional configuration of the multifunction printer according to the sixth embodiment is omitted, and the same reference numerals as those used for the multifunction printer 10 according to the fifth embodiment are used for description.

[0355] [6.1 Processing Flow]

[0356] use Figure 33 The flowchart below explains the processing flow involved in the sixth embodiment. Furthermore, the sixth embodiment begins processing related to fax operations and image transmission via the home screen. The home screen is displayed on the display unit 13, for example, when the power is on, in standby mode, or when resuming from sleep mode, and functions as the basic screen for user input. In the following description, as one type of operation performed by the multifunction printer 10, it is envisioned as a transmission operation for fax or image transmission; however, this processing can also be applied to copying operations, etc., in addition to transmission operations.

[0357] For example, when the power is turned on, in standby mode, or when resuming from sleep mode, the control unit 11 reads the display processing program 233 and displays the home screen on the display unit 13 (step S160).

[0358] When the user inputs a setting instruction for displaying historical information (step S170), the control unit 11 displays the setting historical information display screen on the display unit 13.

[0359] Next, the control unit 11 accepts the selection of configuration history information by the user (step S180). The control unit 11 determines whether the configuration history information selected by the user is configuration history information related to the sending job (step S190).

[0360] If it is determined that the selected setting history information is setting history information related to the sending job, the control unit 11 accepts the sending mode selection made by the user (step S190; yes → step S200).

[0361] The control unit 11 determines whether the transmission mode selected by the user is the simplified mode (step S220). If the transmission mode selected by the user is the simplified mode, the control unit 11 displays the simplified setting screen on the display unit 13 (step 220; yes → step S230). After the simplified setting screen is displayed, based on the user's execution instruction, the control unit 11 performs the simplified mode operation and ends the process (step S240).

[0362] On the other hand, if the sending mode selected by the user is not the simplified mode, the control unit 11 displays the normal setting screen on the display unit 13 (step S220; no → step S250). After the normal setting screen is displayed, based on the user's execution instruction, the control unit 11 performs normal mode operation and ends the process (step S260).

[0363] Additionally, if in step S190 it is determined that the setting history information selected by the user is not the setting history information related to the sending job, the control unit 11 executes the job corresponding to the setting history information and ends the process (step S190; no → step S210).

[0364] [6.2 Action Examples]

[0365] Figure 34 This is an example of the configuration of the home screen W110. The home screen W110 has a task selection button B27, a task status notification button B19e, and a display toggle button B21e.

[0366] The job selection button B27 is used to accept the user's desired job and various processing options. For example, by pressing the simple fax button B29 included in the job selection button B27, the user can perform a fax job in simple mode. Additionally, by pressing the fax button B31, the user can perform a fax job in normal mode. The control unit 11 accepts the press of the simple fax button B29 to display the simple setting screen W10. Similarly, the control unit 11 accepts the press of the fax button B31 to display the normal setting screen W20. Furthermore, the setting history display button B23e is the same as in the first embodiment, used to accept display instruction input for the setting history display screen.

[0367] in addition, Figure 34 This example displays eight selectable job processing items: "Easy Copy," "Easy Fax," "Easy Scan," "Print Publish," "Set History," "Shared Folder," "Scan and Save," and "Fax." However, other job processing items can be displayed by pressing the display toggle button B21e. Furthermore, Figure 34 The example of the task selection button B27 is just one example and is not limited to... Figure 34 The recorded items.

[0368] The job status notification button B19e is used to receive notifications of the job execution status.

[0369] Figure 35 Is Figure 33 In step S190, the setting history information selected by the user is setting history information related to the fax job as a sending job, and is an example of an action when accepting a mode selection for whether to execute the fax job based on the setting history information in normal mode or simple mode.

[0370] Furthermore, this action example is similar to... Figure 33 The processing is described in the flowchart. Here, the control unit 11 will set the state of the main screen W110 to "state 0", the state of the simplified setting screen W10 to "state 1", the state of the setting history display screen W100 to "state 2", and the state of the normal setting screen W20 to "state 3".

[0371] When the setting history display button B23e is pressed from state 0 (where the home screen W110 is displayed), the control unit 11 switches the display screen to the setting history display screen W100 (arrow 0-2 in the figure, state 0 → state 2).

[0372] When the user selects setting history information related to fax operations in state 2, the control unit 11 displays the mode selection screen W70 (corresponding to...). Figure 33 (Processing steps S190 to S220), the mode selection screen W70 is used to select whether to perform a fax job based on the historical information of the settings in normal mode or simple mode.

[0373] When the user selects the simplified mode via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the simplified setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1). Furthermore, it can also be configured such that if the setting history information selected by the user is a fax operation performed in normal mode, and if the simplified mode can be used, the screen can be switched to the simplified setting screen W10.

[0374] On the other hand, when the user selects the normal mode via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the normal setting screen W20 (arrows 2-3 in the figure, state 2 → state 3).

[0375] In addition, if the system settings prioritize either the simplified mode or the normal mode, it can be hidden. Figure 35 Instead of displaying the mode selection screen W70 as shown, this screen is set to show the setting screen corresponding to the preferred mode. Furthermore, if any settings in the selected setting history have been changed that cannot be altered by the user via the simplified setting screen W10, i.e., if setting history information that cannot be handled in simplified mode has been selected, the user can switch to normal mode first.

[0376] In addition, such as Figure 26 As illustrated, the simplified setup screen W10 and the normal setup screen W20 can be switched appropriately by pressing the switching indicator buttons (normal setup button B17a or simplified setup button B17b) located on each setup screen. Therefore, for example, in simplified mode, if it is desired to change a setting value that cannot be changed, the user can easily and flexibly perform fax operations by switching the display screen (mode) from the simplified setup screen W10 to the normal setup screen W20.

[0377] Figure 36 Is Figure 33In step S190, the setting history information selected by the user is setting history information related to the image transmission job as a transmission job, and is an example of an action when accepting a mode selection for whether to execute the image transmission job based on the setting history information in normal mode or simple mode.

[0378] Furthermore, this action example is similar to... Figure 33 The processing is described in the flowchart. Here, the control unit 11 will set the state of the main screen W110 to "state 0", the state of the simplified setting screen W80 to "state 1", the state of the setting history display screen W100 to "state 2", and the state of the normal setting screen W90 to "state 3".

[0379] When the setting history display button B23e is pressed from state 0 (where the home screen W110 is displayed), the control unit 11 switches the display screen to the setting history display screen W100 (arrows 0-2, state 2, state 0 → state 2 in the figure).

[0380] When the user selects setting history information related to the image transmission job in state 2, the control unit 11 displays a mode selection screen W70. This mode selection screen W70 is used to accept the mode selection of whether to execute the image transmission job based on the setting history information in normal mode or simplified mode. Figure 33 (The processing of steps S190 to S220 corresponds to this step).

[0381] When the user selects the simplified mode via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the simplified setting screen W80 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1). Alternatively, it can be configured such that if the setting history information selected by the user is an image transmission operation performed in normal mode, and if the simplified mode can be used, the screen can be switched to the simplified setting screen W10.

[0382] On the other hand, when the user selects the normal mode via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the normal setting screen W90 (arrows 2-3 in the figure, state 2 → state 3).

[0383] In addition, if the system settings prioritize either the simplified mode or the normal mode, it can be hidden. Figure 36Instead of displaying the mode selection screen W70 as shown, this screen is set to show the setting screen corresponding to the preferred mode. Furthermore, if any settings in the selected setting history have been changed that cannot be altered by the user via the simplified setting screen W80, i.e., if setting history information that cannot be handled in simplified mode has been selected, the user can switch to normal mode first.

[0384] In addition, such as Figure 27 As illustrated, the simplified setting screen W80 and the normal setting screen W90 can be switched appropriately by pressing the switching indicator buttons (normal setting button B17c or simplified setting button B17d) located on each setting screen. Therefore, for example, in simplified mode, if it is desired to change a setting value that cannot be changed, the user can easily and flexibly perform image transmission operations by switching the display screen (mode) from the simplified setting screen W80 to the normal setting screen W90.

[0385] As described above, according to the sixth embodiment, when setting history information is selected via the home screen which serves as the acceptance screen, it is possible to select whether to perform the operation in the normal mode via the normal setting screen or in the simplified mode via the simplified setting screen. Therefore, it is possible to provide an image communication device that makes it easy and convenient to perform the operation based on the setting history information via the setting screen desired by the user.

[0386] [7 Seventh Implementation Method]

[0387] The seventh embodiment is configured such that, when selecting setting history information via the simplified setting screen, it is possible to select whether to perform the operation in the normal mode via the normal setting screen or in the simplified mode via the simplified setting screen.

[0388] The functional configuration of the multifunction printer according to the seventh embodiment can be set to be the same as that of the multifunction printer 10 according to the fifth embodiment. Therefore, the description of the functional configuration of the multifunction printer according to the seventh embodiment is omitted, and the same reference numerals as those used for the multifunction printer 10 according to the fifth embodiment are used for description.

[0389] [7.1 Processing Flow]

[0390] use Figure 37 The process flow involved in the seventh embodiment will be explained. Figure 37 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of a user selecting a simplified mode related to sending a job and processing it through a simplified settings screen.

[0391] When the user selects the simplified mode, the control unit 11 accepts the selection of the simplified mode (step S270).

[0392] The control unit 11 displays a simplified setting screen based on the received simplified mode on the display unit 13 (step S280).

[0393] After the simplified setup screen is displayed, the control unit 11 is subject to the selection of setup history information by the user (step S290).

[0394] Next, the control unit 11 accepts the selection of the transmission mode for performing the transmission job related to the selected historical information setting (step S290; Yes → step S300).

[0395] If the user selects the simplified mode during the execution of a transmission job related to setting historical information, the control unit 11 displays the simplified setting screen on the display unit 13 (step S310; Yes → step S320). Then, the control unit 11 executes a new transmission job and ends the process (step S330).

[0396] On the other hand, if the user does not select the simplified mode during the execution of a transmission job related to setting historical information, the control unit 11 displays the normal setting screen on the display unit 13 (step S310; no → step S340). Then, the control unit 11 executes a new transmission job and ends the process (step S330).

[0397] [7.2 Action Examples]

[0398] Figure 38 This is an example of an action where, when the user selects a simplified mode related to a fax job, and the setting history information selected via the simplified setting screen W10 is a job performed in either normal mode or simplified mode, the user chooses whether to perform the job in normal mode via the normal setting screen W20 or in simplified mode via the simplified setting screen W10.

[0399] This action example is similar to... Figure 37 The processing is described in the flowchart. Here, the control unit 11 will set the state of the simple setting screen W10 to "state 1" or "state 1a", the state of the setting history display screen W100 to "state 2", and the state of the normal setting screen W20 to "state 3".

[0400] When the setting history display button B23a is pressed from state 1, which displays the simple setting screen W10, the control unit 11 switches the display screen to the setting history display screen W100 (arrows 1-2 in the figure, state 1 → state 2).

[0401] When the user selects setting history information related to a fax job to be performed in either normal mode or simplified mode in state 2, the control unit 11 displays a mode selection screen W70, which is used to accept the mode selection of whether to perform a fax job based on the setting history information in normal mode or simplified mode.

[0402] When the user selects the simplified mode via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the simplified setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1a in the figure, state 2 → state 1a). Furthermore, it can also be configured such that if the setting history information selected by the user is a fax operation performed in normal mode, and if the simplified mode can be used, the screen can be switched to the simplified setting screen W10.

[0403] On the other hand, when the user selects the normal mode via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the normal setting screen W20 (arrows 2-3 in the figure, state 2 → state 3).

[0404] Furthermore, when the user selects setting history information related to the fax job performed in simplified mode in state 2, the control unit 11 does not display the mode selection screen W70, but switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the simplified setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1a in the figure, state 2 → state 1a).

[0405] Figure 39 This is an example of an action where, when the user selects a simplified mode related to image transmission, and the setting history information selected via the simplified setting screen W80 is either performed in normal mode or simplified mode, the user chooses whether to perform the operation in normal mode via the normal setting screen W90 or in simplified mode via the simplified setting screen W80.

[0406] This action example is similar to... Figure 37 The processing is described in the flowchart. Here, the control unit 11 will set the state of the simple setting screen W80 to "state 1" or "state 1a", the state of the setting history display screen W100 to "state 2", and the state of the normal setting screen W90 to "state 3".

[0407] When the setting history display button B23c is pressed from state 1, which displays the simple setting screen W80, the control unit 11 switches the display screen to the setting history display screen W100 (arrows 1-2 in the figure, state 1 → state 2).

[0408] When the user selects setting history information related to the image transmission job to be performed in either normal mode or simplified mode in state 2, the control unit 11 displays a mode selection screen W70, which is used to accept the mode selection of whether to perform the image transmission job based on the setting history information in normal mode or simplified mode.

[0409] When the user selects the simplified mode via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the simplified setting screen W80 (arrow 2-1a in the figure, state 2 → state 1a). Furthermore, it can also be configured such that if the setting history information selected by the user is an image transmission operation performed in normal mode, and if the simplified mode can be used, the screen can be switched to the simplified setting screen W80.

[0410] On the other hand, when the user selects the normal mode via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the normal setting screen W90 (arrows 2-3 in the figure, state 2 → state 3).

[0411] Furthermore, when the user selects setting history information related to the image transmission operation performed in simplified mode in state 2, the control unit 11 does not display the mode selection screen W70, but switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the simplified setting screen W80 (arrow 2-1a in the figure, state 2 → state 1a).

[0412] As described above, according to the seventh embodiment, when setting history information is selected in the simplified setting screen, it is possible to choose whether to perform the operation in the normal mode via the normal setting screen or in the simplified mode via the simplified setting screen. Therefore, an image communication device is provided that makes it easy and convenient to perform the operation based on the setting history information via the setting screen desired by the user.

[0413] [8. Eighth Implementation Method]

[0414] The eighth embodiment is configured such that when selecting setting history information via the normal setting screen, it is possible to select whether to perform the operation in the normal mode via the normal setting screen or in the simplified mode via the simplified setting screen.

[0415] The functional configuration of the multifunction printer according to the eighth embodiment can be set to be the same as that of the multifunction printer 10 according to the fifth embodiment. Therefore, the description of the functional configuration of the multifunction printer according to the eighth embodiment is omitted, and the same reference numerals as those used for the multifunction printer 10 according to the fifth embodiment are used for description.

[0416] [8.1 Processing Flow]

[0417] use Figure 40 The process flow involved in the eighth embodiment will be explained. Figure 40 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of a user selecting a normal mode related to sending a job and proceeding via a normal settings screen. Furthermore, except for some of the processing, the processing involved in the eighth embodiment can be similar to that involved in the seventh embodiment. Figure 37 The processing after step S290 described herein is the same. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used to label the same parts.

[0418] When the user selects the normal mode, the control unit 11 accepts the selection of the normal mode (step S350).

[0419] The control unit 11 displays a normal setting screen based on the received normal mode on the display unit 13 (step S360).

[0420] After the normal settings screen is displayed, the control unit 11 is subject to the selection of settings history information by the user (step S290).

[0421] Next, the control unit 11 accepts the selection of the transmission mode for performing the transmission job related to the selected historical information setting (step S300).

[0422] If the user selects the simplified mode during the execution of a transmission job related to setting historical information, the control unit 11 displays the simplified setting screen on the display unit 13 (step S310; Yes → step S320). Then, the control unit 11 executes a new transmission job and ends the process (step S330).

[0423] On the other hand, if the user does not select the simplified mode during the execution of a transmission job related to setting historical information, the control unit 11 displays the normal setting screen on the display unit 13 (step S310; no → step S340). Then, the control unit 11 executes a new transmission job and ends the process (step S330).

[0424] [8.2 Action Examples]

[0425] Figure 41This is an example of an action where, when the user selects the normal mode related to the fax job, and the setting history information selected via the normal setting screen W20 indicates that the job was performed in either the normal mode or the simplified mode, the user chooses whether to perform the job in the normal mode via the normal setting screen W20 or in the simplified mode via the simplified setting screen W10.

[0426] This action example is similar to... Figure 40 The processing is described in the flowchart. Here, the control unit 11 will set the state of the simple setting screen W10 to "state 1", the state of the setting history display screen W100 to "state 2", and the state of the normal setting screen W20 to "state 3" or "state 3a".

[0427] When the setting history display button B23b is pressed from state 3, which displays the normal setting screen W20, the control unit 11 switches the display screen to the setting history display screen W100 (arrow 3-2 in the figure, state 3 → state 2).

[0428] When the user selects setting history information related to a fax job to be performed in either normal mode or simplified mode in state 2, the control unit 11 displays a mode selection screen W70, which is used to accept the mode selection of whether to perform a fax job based on the setting history information in normal mode or simplified mode.

[0429] When the user selects the simplified mode via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the simplified setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1). Furthermore, it can also be configured such that if the setting history information selected by the user is a fax operation performed in normal mode, and if the simplified mode can be used, the screen can be switched to the simplified setting screen W10.

[0430] On the other hand, when the user selects the normal mode via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the normal setting screen W20 (arrows 2-3a in the figure, state 2 → state 3a).

[0431] Furthermore, when the user selects setting history information related to the fax job performed in simplified mode in state 2, the control unit 11 does not display the mode selection screen W70, but switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the simplified setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1).

[0432] Figure 42 This is an example of an action where, when the user selects a normal mode related to image transmission, and the setting history information selected via the normal setting screen W90 is either in normal mode or simple mode, the user chooses whether to perform the operation in normal mode via the normal setting screen W90 or in simple mode via the simple setting screen W80.

[0433] This action example is similar to... Figure 40 The processing is described in the flowchart. Here, the control unit 11 will set the state of the simple setting screen W80 to "state 1", the state of the setting history display screen W100 to "state 2", and the state of the normal setting screen W90 to "state 3" or "state 3a".

[0434] When the setting history display button B23d is pressed from state 3, which displays the normal setting screen W90, the control unit 11 switches the display screen to the setting history display screen W100 (arrow 3-2 in the figure, state 3 → state 2).

[0435] When the user selects setting history information related to the image transmission job to be performed in either normal mode or simplified mode in state 2, the control unit 11 displays a mode selection screen W70, which is used to accept the mode selection of whether to perform the image transmission job based on the setting history information in normal mode or simplified mode.

[0436] When the user selects the simplified mode via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the simplified setting screen W80 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1). Alternatively, it can be configured such that if the setting history information selected by the user is an image transmission operation performed in normal mode, and if the simplified mode can be used, the screen can be switched to the simplified setting screen W10.

[0437] On the other hand, when the user selects the normal mode via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the normal setting screen W90 (arrows 2-3a in the figure, state 2 → state 3a).

[0438] Furthermore, when the user selects setting history information related to the image transmission operation performed in simplified mode in state 2, the control unit 11 does not display the mode selection screen W70, but switches the display screen from the setting history display screen W100 to the simplified setting screen W80 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1).

[0439] As described above, according to the eighth embodiment, when setting history information is selected in the normal setting screen, it is possible to choose whether to perform the operation in the normal mode via the normal setting screen or in the simplified mode via the simplified setting screen. Therefore, an image communication device is able to provide an easy and convenient way to perform the operation based on the setting history information via the setting screen as desired by the user.

[0440] [9 Ninth Implementation Method]

[0441] The ninth embodiment is configured to, when utilizing setting history information related to mass sending (a function that simultaneously sends to destinations of different sending methods (e.g., fax, image sending, Internet fax, saving to a shared folder, etc.), switch the display screen to the setting screen of the sending method with the most destinations stored in the setting history information, based on the number of destinations stored in the setting history information. Furthermore, in the description of the ninth embodiment, a fax job is used as an example of a first sending method, and an image sending (E-mail sending) job is used as an example of a second sending method.

[0442] The functional configuration of the multifunction printer according to the ninth embodiment can be set to be the same as that of the multifunction printer 10 according to the fifth embodiment. Therefore, the description of the functional configuration of the multifunction printer according to the ninth embodiment is omitted, and the same reference numerals as those used for the multifunction printer 10 according to the fifth embodiment are used for description.

[0443] [9.1 Processing Flow]

[0444] use Figure 43 The processing flow involved in the ninth embodiment will be described. The control unit 11 displays the main screen on the display unit 13 (step S370). When the user inputs a display instruction for the setting history display screen (step S380), the control unit 11 displays the setting history display screen on the display unit 13.

[0445] Next, the control unit 11 accepts the user's selection of configuration history information (step S390). The control unit 11 determines whether the configuration history information selected by the user is configuration history information related to the mass mailing operation (step S400). If the selected configuration history information is configuration history information related to the mass mailing operation, the control unit 11 confirms and compares the number of destinations involved in the mass mailing, which is related to fax as the first sending method and image sending (E-mail sending) as the second sending method (step S400; Yes → step S410).

[0446] After comparing the number of destinations, if the result indicates that there are many destinations related to faxing, the control unit 11 displays the fax setting screen (step S420; Yes → step S430). Then, the control unit 11 executes the fax operation (step S440) and ends the processing.

[0447] On the other hand, if the result of comparing the number of destinations indicates that there are more destinations related to email sending, the control unit 11 displays the email setting screen (step S420; no → step S460). Then, the control unit 11 executes the email sending operation (step S470) and ends the process.

[0448] Furthermore, if the selected setting history information is not related to the mass mailing operation, the control unit 11 applies the setting history information to the setting screen of the operation related to the selected setting history information and executes the operation based on the user's instructions (step S400; no → step S450).

[0449] [9.2 Action Examples]

[0450] Figure 44 This is an example of an action that, when using the configuration history information related to mass messaging, switches the display screen to the configuration screen of the sending method with the most destinations stored in the configuration history information, based on the number of destinations stored in the configuration history information.

[0451] This action example is similar to... Figure 43 The corresponding processing is described in the flowchart. Here, the control unit 11 will be described with the following states: the state of the main page screen W110 is set to "state 0", the state of the setting history display screen W100 is set to "state 2", the state of the fax setting screen (displayed as a normal setting screen) W20 is set to "state 4", and the state of the E-mail setting screen (displayed as a normal setting screen) W90 is set to "state 5".

[0452] When the setting history display button B23e is pressed from state 0 (where the home screen W110 is displayed), the control unit 11 switches the display screen to the setting history display screen W100 (arrow 0-2 in the figure, state 0 → state 2).

[0453] When the user selects a mass mailing job in state 2, the control unit 11 will switch the display screen to either the fax setting screen W20 (arrow 2-4, state 2 → state 4) or the email setting screen W90 (arrow 2-5, state 2 → state 5) depending on the number of destinations for the sending method (fax or email).

[0454] [9.3. Variations]

[0455] In a variation, a method is described that prioritizes displaying the user's current operation screen regardless of the number of destinations in each sending method related to the mass sending job.

[0456] Figure 45 This is an example of an action that prioritizes displaying the user's current operation screen regardless of the number of destinations in each sending method related to the mass mailing job.

[0457] In this example, the control unit 11 does not compare the number of destinations in each sending method related to the mass mailing operation. The control unit 11 displays the setting screen by accepting each sending method that has a setting history display instruction. Furthermore, in this description, the control unit 11 will set the status of the setting history display screen W100 to "Status 2", the status of the fax setting screen W20 to "Status 4" or "Status 4a", and the status of the E-mail setting screen W90 to "Status 5".

[0458] When the setting history display button B23b is pressed from state 4 (where the fax setting screen W20 is displayed), the control unit 11 switches the display screen to the setting history display screen W100 (arrow 4-2 in the figure, state 4 → state 2).

[0459] When the user selects a mass mailing job in state 2, the control unit 11 switches the display screen to the fax setting screen W20 (arrow 2-4a, state 2 → state 4a) which has received the display instruction of the setting history display screen W100, regardless of the number of destinations in each sending method related to the mass mailing job, instead of switching to the E-mail setting screen W90 (arrow 2-5, state 2 → state 5).

[0460] As described above, according to the ninth embodiment, since the display screen is switched to the setting screen of each sending method based on the number of destinations related to the setting history information or the operation screen operated by the user when using setting history information related to mass sending, it is possible to provide an image communication device that makes it easy and convenient to perform operations based on setting history information via the setting screen desired by the user.

[0461] This invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible. That is, embodiments obtained by appropriately modifying the combination of technical solutions without departing from the spirit of this invention are also included within the scope of this invention.

[0462] Furthermore, for ease of explanation, the above-described embodiments may be described separately, but it is self-evident that they may also be combined and implemented within the range that is technically possible.

[0463] Furthermore, the programs operating in each device in the embodiments are programs that control the CPU and other devices in a manner that enables the computer to perform its functions in accordance with the functions described in the embodiments described above. Moreover, the information processed in these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (e.g., RAM) during processing, and then stored in various storage devices such as ROM and HDD, and read out by the CPU as needed for correction and writing.

[0464] Here, the storage medium for storing the program can be any of the following: semiconductor media (e.g., ROM, non-volatile memory cards, 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, floppy disk, etc.). Furthermore, the functions of the above-described embodiments are not only achieved by executing the loaded program, but sometimes the functions of the present invention are also achieved by processing in conjunction with an operating system or other applications based on instructions from the program.

[0465] Furthermore, when circulating in the market, it can be distributed via portable recording media storage programs or transmitted to server computers connected via networks such as the Internet. In this case, it goes without saying that the storage device of the server computer is also included in the present invention.

[0466] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0467] 10 Composite Machine

[0468] 11: Control Department

[0469] 13: Display Section

[0470] 15: Operation Input Section

[0471] 17 Ministry of Communications

[0472] 19: Image forming unit

[0473] 21 Image Reading Unit

[0474] 23: Storage Department

[0475] 231 Job Execution Procedure

[0476] 232 Setting up the historical record information processing program

[0477] 233 Display Processor

[0478] 234 Pattern Detection Program

[0479] 235 Set Value Storage Area

[0480] 236. Set the historical record information storage area.

[0481] 237 Display content storage area

[0482] 25. Paper Supply Department

[0483] 27 Paper Output Department

Claims

1. An information processing device, characterized in that, include: Display unit, storage unit, and control unit. The control unit displays either the execution screen for accepting execution instructions or a simplified execution screen that simplifies the content of the execution screen on the display unit. The storage unit stores historical information related to the jobs for which execution instructions were received via either the execution screen or the simplified execution screen. The control unit determines whether a task based on the historical information selected by the user can be executed in the simplified execution screen, and displays the execution screen or the simplified execution screen on the display unit based on the determination result.

2. The information processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, If the historical information related to the job for which the execution instruction was accepted via the execution screen is selected, the control unit determines that the execution instruction for the job is accepted via the simplified execution screen.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, When the historical information related to the job for which the execution instruction was received via the execution screen is selected, the control unit displays a selection screen on the display unit. The selection screen is a screen for selecting which screen, either the execution screen or the simplified execution screen, to input the execution instruction for the job.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit displays an acceptance screen on the display unit for accepting the display instruction input for the historical information. When the historical information display instruction input is accepted via the acceptance screen, the control unit displays a selection screen on the display unit. The selection screen is a screen for selecting which screen, either the execution screen or the simplified execution screen, to input the execution instruction for the job.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, This includes an authentication department, which performs user authentication. When the user is authenticated, the control unit accepts the display instruction input of the historical information via the acceptance screen. If the historical information related to the job already performed by other users is selected, the control unit determines that the execution instruction of the job is accepted via the simplified execution screen.

6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, When the user is authenticated, the control unit accepts the display instruction input of the historical information via the acceptance screen. If the historical information related to the job that the user has performed is selected, the control unit determines that the execution instruction of the job is accepted via the execution screen.

7. A control method for an information processing device, characterized in that, include: The display process involves displaying either the execution screen for accepting the execution instructions or a simplified execution screen that simplifies the content of the execution screen on the display device. The storage process involves storing historical information in a storage device. This historical information is related to the operation for which an execution instruction was received via either the execution screen or the simplified execution screen. as well as Select the display process, determine whether the operation based on the historical information selected by the user can be executed via the simplified execution screen, and display the execution screen or the simplified execution screen on the display device based on the determination result.

8. An image communication device, characterized in that, include: The communications unit communicates with other devices based on the operating mode; The historical record management department manages the action patterns and the historical records of the communication department; as well as The control unit controls the display of the historical records. When the first operation mode associated with the setting screen that has received the display instruction for the history record is different from the second operation mode associated with the selected history record, and when the operation associated with the history record can be performed in the first operation mode, the control unit controls the display of the setting screen corresponding to the first operation mode.

9. The image communication device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second operation mode is the normal mode in which the operation is performed via the normal setting screen, and the first operation mode is the simplified mode in which the operation is performed via the simplified setting screen with simplified display content of the normal setting screen.

10. The image communication device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The control unit controls the display of the acceptance screen for accepting the display instruction of the history record. When the selected history record is a history record related to the operation performed in either the normal mode or the simplified mode, the control unit controls the display of the selection screen, which is a screen for selecting either the normal mode or the simplified mode.

11. The image communication device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The acceptance screen has a display indicator input device for the historical records.

12. The image communication device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The control unit controls the display of the setting screen associated with either the normal mode or the simplified mode. When the history selected via the setting screen is related to the operation performed in either the normal mode or the simplified mode, the control unit controls the display of the selection screen, which is a screen for selecting either the normal mode or the simplified mode.

13. An image communication device, characterized in that, include: The communication unit communicates with other devices using a first transmission method and a second transmission method different from the first transmission method; The history management department manages the transmission method and the history of the communication department; and The control unit controls the display of the historical records. When the control unit receives the instruction to display the historical records, it compares the sending destinations recorded in the historical records using the first sending method and the sending destinations using the second sending method, and displays a setting screen for the sending method corresponding to the sending destination.

14. A control method for an image communication device, characterized in that, include: The communication process involves communicating with other devices based on the operating mode. The history management process manages the history of the action patterns and the communication processes. as well as Control the process and display the historical records. In the control process, If the first action mode associated with the setting screen that received the display instruction for the history record is different from the second action mode associated with the selected history record, and if the operation of the second action mode associated with the history record can be performed in the first action mode, then the setting screen corresponding to the first action mode is displayed.

15. A control method for an image communication device, characterized in that, include: The communication process involves using a first transmission method and a second transmission method different from the first transmission method to communicate with other devices. The historical record management process manages the transmission methods and the historical records of the communications department. as well as The control process includes controlling the display of the historical records. In the control process, when the control unit receives the display instruction of the historical record, it compares the sending destinations recorded in the historical record using the first sending method and the sending destinations using the second sending method, and displays a setting screen for the sending method corresponding to the sending destination.

Images