Historical information management device, image processing device and historical information management method

Abstract

A historical information management device is provided that can save and manage user-useful historical settings information. The historical information management device includes: a storage unit capable of storing a predetermined limit number of historical settings information related to the execution of a task; and a control unit that uses the historical settings information to control the execution of the task, wherein the control unit deletes the historical settings information from the storage unit based on the usage performance of the historical settings information when the number of stored historical settings information reaches the predetermined limit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to historical information management devices, etc. Background Technology

[0002] In image processing devices such as multifunction printers, the settings related to the execution of tasks such as printing, faxing, or image transmission are sometimes stored as setting history information.

[0003] In recent years, attempts have been made to reduce the hassle and time required for users in executing tasks by utilizing stored setting history information. Specifically, the image processing device displays the setting history information on a display unit so that the user can make a selection. Upon receiving the user's selection of the setting history information, the image processing device executes the task based on the setting values ​​associated with that setting history information, thereby easily reproducing the task corresponding to that setting history information.

[0004] However, the image processing device has a limited capacity to store setting history information. Typically, the image processing device stores the latest setting history information in the order the jobs are executed. When the stored setting history information reaches the storage limit, the image processing device deletes the already stored setting history information to ensure sufficient storage capacity for the latest setting history information.

[0005] Settings history that is of little use to users—meaning that deleting it wouldn't cause them any inconvenience—is unlikely to be deleted. However, sometimes valuable settings history is accidentally deleted. Therefore, users need to identify and manage settings history that is deemed unnecessary to retain as history, and settings history that should be retained.

[0006] In view of this situation, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses an image processing apparatus that, when displaying the history of a job, prevents the history of a job that the user wants to see from being hidden.

[0007] Existing technical documents

[0008] Patent documents

[0009] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-125687 Summary of the Invention

[0010] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0011] Patent document 1 describes deleting the oldest setting history by execution date from the comprehensive historical database when there is no free space in the comprehensive historical data table, but it does not study whether the historical information of the deleted object is information that needs to be retained as history.

[0012] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a historical information management device that can save and manage user-useful historical settings information.

[0013] Solution for solving the problem

[0014] To solve the above problems, the historical information management device disclosed herein includes: a storage unit capable of storing a predetermined limit number of setting historical information related to the execution of a job; and a control unit that uses the setting historical information to control the execution of the job, wherein when the number of stored setting historical information reaches the predetermined limit number, the control unit deletes the setting historical information from the storage unit based on the usage performance of the setting historical information.

[0015] Furthermore, the image processing apparatus of the present invention includes: the historical information management device; and an image processing unit that performs image processing based on the above-described operation.

[0016] Furthermore, the historical information management method disclosed herein includes: a storage step, storing a predetermined limit number of setting historical information related to the execution of a job; a control step, using the setting historical information to control the job; and a deletion step, deleting the setting historical information from the storage unit based on the usage performance of the setting historical information when the number of stored setting historical information reaches the predetermined limit number.

[0017] Invention Effects

[0018] According to this disclosure, a historical information management device can be provided that can save and manage historical settings information useful to users. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the overall structure of the composite machine according to the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 2 This is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction printer involved in the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating the data structure for setting historical information.

[0022] Figure 4 It is a diagram illustrating the data structure of the job history information.

[0023] Figure 5 This is a flowchart used to illustrate the processing flow of the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 6 This is a flowchart used to illustrate the processing flow of the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the data structure of the usage count management table.

[0026] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the data structure for setting historical information.

[0027] Figure 9 This is a diagram used to illustrate an example of the operation of the first embodiment.

[0028] Figure 10 This is a diagram used to illustrate an example of the operation of the first embodiment.

[0029] Figure 11 This is a diagram used to illustrate an example of the operation of the first embodiment.

[0030] Figure 12 This is a diagram used to illustrate an example of the operation of the first embodiment.

[0031] Figure 13 This is a functional configuration diagram used to illustrate the multifunction machine involved in the second embodiment.

[0032] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow of the second embodiment.

[0033] Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow of the second embodiment.

[0034] Figure 16 This is a diagram used to illustrate an example of the operation of the second embodiment.

[0035] Figure 17 This is a diagram used to illustrate an example of the operation of the second embodiment.

[0036] Figure 18 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow of the third embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0037] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this disclosure, a multifunction printer capable of performing copying, faxing, image transmission, and other related operations within a single housing will be described as a historical information management device or an image processing device equipped with such a historical information management device. Furthermore, the following embodiments are merely examples for illustrating the present disclosure, and the technical scope of the invention as described in the claims is not limited to the following description.

[0038] [1 First Implementation Method]

[0039] [1.1 Functional Composition]

[0040] use Figure 1 and Figure 2The functional configuration of the multifunction machine 10 involved in the first embodiment is explained. Figure 1 This is a perspective view illustrating the overall structure of the multifunction printer 10. Figure 2 This is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction printer 10. The multifunction printer 10 includes a control unit 11, a display unit 13, an operation input unit 15, a communication unit 17, an image forming unit 19 which serves as an image processing unit, an image reading unit 21, and a storage unit 23.

[0041] The control unit 11 controls the entire multifunction printer 10. The control unit 11 may consist of one or more computing devices (such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit)). The control unit 11 performs various functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 23.

[0042] The display unit 13 displays various information to users and others. The display unit 13 is composed of, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an organic EL (Electroluminescence) display.

[0043] The operation input unit 15 accepts information input by the user or others. The operation input unit 15 can be composed of physical keys (e.g., numeric keys), buttons, etc. Alternatively, the operation input unit 15 can be configured as a touch panel that can receive input via the display unit 13. In this case, the input method for the touch panel can be a common method such as resistive film, infrared, electromagnetic induction, or capacitive touch.

[0044] The communications section 17 includes, for example, a LAN (Local area network), a WAN (Wi-Fi area network), the Internet, a telephone line, or a wired or wireless interface for communicating with another device via a network (NW).

[0045] The image forming unit 19 forms an image based on image data onto paper, which serves as a recording medium.

[0046] The image forming unit 19 supplies paper from the paper supply unit 25, forms an image based on image data on the paper, and then discharges the paper to the paper discharge unit 27. The image forming unit 19 is configured as a laser printer or the like that using an electrophotographic method. In this case, the image forming unit 19 forms an image using toner supplied from a toner cartridge (not shown) corresponding to a toner color (e.g., cyan, magenta, yellow, black).

[0047] The image reading unit 21 generates image data by scanning and reading the original image of the document to be read. The image reading unit 21 can be configured as a scanner device equipped with an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) or a CIS (Contact Image Sensor). The structure of the image reading unit 21 is not limited as long as it generates image data by reading the reflected light image from the original image through an image sensor.

[0048] The storage unit 23 stores various programs and data required for the operation of the multifunction printer 10. The storage unit 23 is composed of storage devices such as RAM (Random access memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), and ROM (Read Only Memory).

[0049] In the first embodiment, the storage unit 23 stores the job execution program 231, the setting history information processing program 232, the deletion judgment program 233, and the display processing program 234, and ensures the setting value file storage area 235, the setting history information storage area 236, and the job history information storage area 237.

[0050] The job execution program 231 is a program read by the control unit 11 for the processing accompanying the execution of various functions such as copying, faxing, and image transmission in job units. The control unit 11, having read the job execution program 231, executes jobs by controlling the display unit 13, operation input unit 15, communication unit 17, image forming unit 19, and image reading unit 21. Furthermore, the control unit 11, having read the job execution program 231, can execute various jobs based on setting values ​​contained in a setting value file containing setting history information.

[0051] The setting history information processing program 232 is, for example, a program read by the control unit 11 when performing tasks such as acquiring setting values ​​related to job execution, generating setting history information, and performing various processing on the setting history information. After reading the setting history information processing program 232, the control unit 11 acquires setting values ​​related to job execution and generates a setting value file containing those setting values. Then, the control unit 11 stores the generated setting value file in the setting value file storage area 235. Furthermore, the control unit 11 generates setting history information by associating the setting value file with identification information (e.g., job ID) used to identify which job it is associated with. Then, the control unit 11 stores the generated setting history information as setting history in the setting history information storage area 236.

[0052] The deletion determination procedure 233 is a program read by the control unit 11 when the number of stored setting history information in the setting history information storage area 236 reaches a predetermined limit. After reading the deletion determination procedure 233, the control unit 11 deletes the setting history information determined based on the usage performance of the setting history information from the setting history information storage area 236. The usage performance of the setting history information will be explained later.

[0053] The display processing program 234 is a program read by the control unit 11 when the display unit 13 displays a display screen that shows setting history information as a list of setting history, a setting screen for receiving input of various setting values ​​related to the execution of the operation, a basic screen (main screen) that can be displayed in a switchable manner, or a login screen for user authentication, etc.

[0054] The setting value file storage area 235 is a storage area for the setting value files generated by the control unit 11, which reads the setting history information processing program 232. Setting values ​​include, for example, user-defined setting values ​​such as color mode, resolution, format, and density, as well as initial device values ​​maintained by the device itself. The control unit 11, which reads the job execution program 231, reads and executes the setting value file associated with the setting history information of the execution target from the setting value file storage area 235.

[0055] The setting history information storage area 236 is a storage area that reads the setting history information generated by the control unit 11 stored in the setting history information processing program 232. The setting history information stored in the setting history information storage area 236 is appropriately read during setting history display processing or execution of operations based on the setting history information. Furthermore, the setting history information storage area 236 can store a predetermined limit number of setting history information entries. Here, the predetermined limit number that can be stored is not particularly limited. In the following description, for ease of explanation, the predetermined limit number that the setting history information storage area 236 can store at one time will be described as "10", but the predetermined limit number that can be stored is not limited to this. The predetermined limit number that the setting history information storage area 236 can store can be set by considering the physical storage capacity of the storage unit 23 and the displayable area in the display unit 13.

[0056] Here, we will explain the historical information involved in this disclosure. Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating one example of the data structure of the historical information stored in the historical information storage area 236.

[0057] Figure 3 The example involves the following configuration history information: job ID, execution date and time, job type, displayed settings, and setting file name.

[0058] The job ID is used to identify which job the configuration history information is associated with. The execution time indicates when the job was executed. The job type indicates the type of job performed (e.g., photocopying, Scan to E-mail, etc.). The displayed settings value represents a portion of the settings (content) shown in the configuration history information display screen described later. The settings value filename is the filename of the settings value file associated with this configuration history information.

[0059] For example, the configuration history information associated with job ID "0099" indicates the configuration history information related to the job type "copying" that was executed at "2020 / 02 / 22 20:20". Then, this job is a copying job executed based on the configuration values ​​contained in the configuration value file name "0099.config", which is an example of setting the configuration values ​​(items) such as "tray: tray 1, original: single-sided → double-sided, density: text, ..." to the display configuration values ​​displayed on the configuration history information display screen.

[0060] Furthermore, the display settings set in each job ID are merely examples, and the settings displayed in the setting history information display screen are not limited to these. Figure 3 The recorded items.

[0061] Back to Figure 2 The job history information storage area 237 is a storage area that stores job execution records as job history information. Here, the setting of historical information involved in this disclosure will be explained. Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating one example of the data structure of the job history information stored in the job history information storage area 237.

[0062] Figure 4 The example involves job history information including job ID, execution time, job type, username, and status.

[0063] Job ID, Execution Time, Job Type and Figure 3 The settings history information described herein includes the same items and the same content. Username indicates the name of the user who executed the job. Status indicates the processing status of the job.

[0064] For example, the job history information associated with job ID "0098" indicates the job history information related to the job type "Scan to E-mail" that was executed at "2020 / 02 / 22 19:19". Furthermore, it indicates that the job was executed with the username "aaaaa" and the job status is "completed".

[0065] Job history information differs from setting history information; it records the execution history of a job. Job history information can be generated at any time, such as during job registration, job completion, or after setting history information is generated. Furthermore, since setting history information based on this disclosure is deleted according to usage performance, discrepancies may sometimes occur between job history information based on job history information and setting history information based on setting history information.

[0066] [1.2 Processing Flow]

[0067] Next, the processing flow involved in the first embodiment will be described. Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the processes involved in storing the setting history information of the multifunction printer 10. The processes described here are those performed by the control unit 11 by reading the display processing program 234, the job execution program 231, the setting history information processing program 232, and the deletion judgment program 233.

[0068] First, the control unit 11 determines whether the user has input a display instruction for setting history (step S10). The display instruction for setting history can be received, for example, via a home screen (not shown) or a setting screen corresponding to each job type.

[0069] If the display indicates that a setting history has been entered, the control unit 11 displays the setting history information stored in the setting history information storage area 236 as the setting history (step S10: Yes → step S20). On the other hand, if the display indicates that no setting history has been entered, the control unit 11 transfers the processing to step S40 (step S10: No → step S40).

[0070] Next, the control unit 11 receives the selection based on the user's set historical information (step S30).

[0071] If the control unit 11 receives a selection of setting history information, it reads the setting value file associated with the setting history information and displays a setting screen corresponding to the job type (step S40). Alternatively, if the user does not input a display instruction for setting history, the control unit 11 displays a setting screen corresponding to the job type selected by the user.

[0072] When the control unit 11 receives the operation instruction input via the setting screen, it executes the operation (step S50 → step S60).

[0073] If the operation is performed, the control unit 11 determines whether the number of stored historical information has reached the prescribed limit (step S70).

[0074] If the number of stored setting history information reaches the prescribed limit, the control unit 11 performs setting history information deletion processing (step S70: Yes → step S80). On the other hand, if the number of stored setting history information does not reach the prescribed limit, the control unit 11 moves the processing to step S90 (step S70: No → step S90).

[0075] The control unit 11 stores the new setting history information involved in the operation executed in step S60 in the setting history information storage area 236 and ends the process (step S90).

[0076] Furthermore, for jobs intentionally canceled by the user due to paper jams, fault codes, etc., and considering the possibility of re-executing the same job, this setting history information is not stored as unnecessary setting history information.

[0077] Next, use Figure 6 The flowchart for Figure 5 The step S80, involving the deletion of historical information, will be explained. This process is executed by the control unit 11 by reading the deletion determination program 233. Furthermore, in... Figure 6 The method for determining the setting history information of the object to be deleted is described, and the method for determining the usage performance of the setting history information is based on the number of times it is used (reference number).

[0078] The control unit 11 calculates the number of times the setting history information is used as the usage performance of the setting history information (step S810).

[0079] Then, the control unit 11 determines the setting history information with the fewest uses (step S820).

[0080] The control unit 11 deletes the oldest setting history information (i.e., the setting history information with the oldest date) from the setting history information that has been used the least, and ends the process (step S830).

[0081] Figure 7 It is a summary Figure 3 This is an example of a data structure for a usage count management table, which shows the historical settings information associated with each job ID and the calculation results of the number of times that historical settings information has been used.

[0082] The job ID at the left end of the table indicates that... Figure 3The table shows the operation IDs. The usage count in the center of the table represents the number of times the setting history information has been used, calculated by the control unit 11. The deletion judgment flag at the right end of the table is a flag attached to the oldest setting history information (the deletion target) among the setting history information with the fewest determined usage counts. The control unit 11 deletes the setting history information with the deletion judgment flag attached.

[0083] Figure 7 This is an example where the usage count of the configuration history information related to job IDs "0099", "0097", and "0094" is counted as "0 times". Among these configuration history records, the configuration history information related to job ID "0094" for the oldest job is determined (see [reference]). Figure 3 This is used as the historical information for the object being deleted.

[0084] like Figure 8 As shown in (a), if the configuration history information associated with job ID “0094” is deleted, the configuration history information associated with the latest job can be stored. Figure 8 (b) indicates that the configuration history information related to job ID "0100" generated by executing a new copy job is stored in the storage area created by deleting job ID "0094".

[0085] [1.3 Action Examples]

[0086] Next, examples of actions involved in the first embodiment will be described. Figure 9 This is one example of displaying the setting history information as a setting history display screen. Furthermore, this action example is similar to... Figure 5 The processing of steps S11 and S20 corresponds to each other.

[0087] Figure 9 (a) is to Figure 3 The example shown is the configuration history information from job IDs "0099" to "0095" displayed as a configuration history overview on the configuration history display screen W10. Additionally, the configuration history display screen W10 can, for example, be accessed via... Figure 10 The main screen W20 illustrated in (a), Figure 10 The setting screen W30 corresponding to each job type shown in (b) is displayed.

[0088] The settings history display screen W10 includes a settings history information display area R10 and a slider SB10. The settings history information display area R10 is a display area that can selectively display settings history information related to each job ID. The slider SB10 is configured to slide up and down. The slider SB10 receives a display instruction for areas not displayed in the settings history information display area R10. For example, by performing operations such as moving the slider SB10 up and down, pressing the arrow button, or swiping within the settings history information display area R10, non-displayed areas can be displayed in the settings history information display area R10.

[0089] For example, Figure 9 (b) is displayed by operating the slider SB1O. Figure 9 Examples of the non-displayed areas in (a). That is, Figure 9 (b) is to Figure 3 The example of setting history information involving job IDs “0094” to “0090” is displayed as an example of setting history overview on setting history display screen W10.

[0090] Here, we will explain the main screen W20, which accepts the display instruction of the setting history display screen W10, and the setting screen W30. Figure 10 (a) is an example of the configuration of the main screen W20. The main screen W20 is a basic screen that is displayed on the display unit 13 and accepts user operation input, for example, when the power is turned on, in standby mode, or when resuming from sleep mode. The main screen W20 includes a mode selection button B10.

[0091] The mode selection button B10 is used to select the operating mode of the receiver multifunction printer 10. Figure 10 (a) is an example of a configuration B102 that includes the following buttons as selectable operating modes: "Easy Copy," "Easy Fax," "Easy Scan," "Email," "Fax," "Scan & Save," "External Address Book," and "Set History." Additionally, Figure 10 The button configuration example shown in (a) is an example, and can be appropriately modified, for example, through a system configuration screen not shown.

[0092] For example, by pressing the "Set History" button B102 of the mode selection button B10, the user can... Figure 9 The setting history display screen W10 shown in (a) or (b) is displayed on the display unit 13.

[0093] on the other hand, Figure 10 (b) is an example of a configuration screen W30 involved in an image transmission operation. The configuration screen W30 can be displayed by pressing the "Mail" button included in the mode selection button B10 of the main screen W20.

[0094] In addition to the address book button and email name input box, the settings screen of W30 also includes a settings display area R12 and a processing selection button B12.

[0095] The setting value display area R12 is a display area for setting values ​​related to image transmission. The setting value display area R12 displays setting values ​​based on the device default values ​​related to image transmission or the setting value file read by the control unit 11.

[0096] The selection button B12 is a button that accepts the user's desired processing (action).

[0097] In addition to accepting various processing options such as "External Address Book," "Read by Search Number," "Read by Program," "Send History," and "Simple Setup," the processing selection button B12 also includes a "Setup History" button B122. For example, by pressing the "Setup History" button B122 of the processing button B12, the user can... Figure 9 The setting history display screen W10 shown in (a) or (b) is displayed on the display unit 13.

[0098] In addition, the settings screen W30 can be displayed not only by pressing the mode selection button B10 on the main screen W20, but also by selecting the settings history information displayed in the settings history display screen W10. Furthermore, Figure 10 (b) is in Figure 9 (a) In the setting history information display area R10, when setting history information related to "Scan to E-mail" for job ID "0098" is selected, an example of the setting screen W30 on the display unit 13 is displayed. In this case, the setting value display area R12 of the setting screen W30 reflects and displays the setting value file associated with the setting history information of job ID "0098".

[0099] Figure 11 To be Figure 8 (b) shows an example of a configuration of the setting history display screen WlO when the storage status setting history information is displayed. Additionally, Figure 11 (a) and (b) with Figure 9 (a) and (b) similarly show the diagrams before and after the operation of slider SB10.

[0100] like Figure 8 As explained in (b), with the deletion of job ID "0094", the configuration history information associated with job ID "0094" is no longer displayed in the configuration history information display area R10. Figure 11 (b)

[0101] On the other hand, the configuration history information related to job ID "0100" generated by executing a new copy job is displayed at the top of the configuration history as the latest configuration history information. Figure 11 (a)).

[0102] [Confirmation of historical settings regarding objects to be deleted]

[0103] In the Figure 5 Step S80 and the processing of step S80 will be explained. Figure 6 In steps S810 and S820, the historical information of the deleted object can be used, for example, through... Figure 12 The determination method is illustrated in the example.

[0104] Method (1) is the method for determining the setting history information that has been used the least, as mentioned above.

[0105] Method (2) is a method that calculates the number of items whose settings have changed from the initial value in step S810, and determines the setting history information with the fewest items whose settings have changed in step S820. If the change from the initial value is less, it can be determined that the setting history information is used infrequently.

[0106] Method (3) is to calculate the number of times the setting history information for each job category is used in step S810, and to determine the job category with the fewest setting history information in step S820. When the frequency of use of a job (type) is low, it can be determined that the frequency of use of the setting history information is low.

[0107] Method (4) is a method in step S810 that determines the setting history information for each setting history information, such as the number of copies, and only changes the setting history information of the specific item to be changed. Even if setting history information is stored, it can be determined that the possibility of changing the setting content is high and the necessity of retaining the setting history information is low.

[0108] Method (5) is the method for determining the setting history information related to the executed job from the job program in step S810. Furthermore, the "job program" involved in this disclosure refers to a technique for permanently and manually storing job-related settings, meaning that settings related to job processing are registered together. In a usage table of repeatedly executed jobs, the user can set the setting values ​​related to that job together by recalling and executing the job program, thus reducing the number of setting steps when executing the same job. In this way, the setting values ​​related to the job executed from the job program are already registered as part of the job program, so it can be determined that the necessity to retain setting history information is low.

[0109] Method (6) is the method in step S810 for determining the configuration history information involved in an image transmission job that will use a destination selected from the registered address book as the transmission destination. Since the address book has a registered destination and the destination selection is easy, it can be determined that there is little need to retain the configuration history information related to the image transmission job.

[0110] Method (7) is a method used in step S810 to determine the setting history information involved in the image transmission operation where the destination of the registered address book is modified or deleted. Since this setting history information is not based on the destination of the address book at the beginning of registration, it can be determined that the necessity of retaining the setting history information is low.

[0111] Method (8) is a method in step S810 to determine setting history information that is not executable or whose execution is suppressed in other settings. Because of the influence of arbitrary settings (e.g., color printing prohibition settings, etc.), even if the setting history information is selected, the operation cannot be executed, so it can be determined that the necessity of retaining the setting history information is low.

[0112] Figure 12 The application of the determination method illustrated in the example can be determined based on the user's choice. In addition, when determining the setting history information of the object to be deleted, it is not necessary to select any one of the specific methods (1) to (8). For example, a priority order can be set and multiple determination methods can be combined, such as determination method (3) → determination method (5) → determination method (8).

[0113] As described above, according to the first embodiment, when the number of stored setting history information reaches a predetermined limit, the setting history information is deleted from the storage unit based on the usage performance of the setting history information. Therefore, a historical information management device that can save and manage setting history information and other useful features can be provided to users.

[0114] [2 Second Implementation]

[0115] The second implementation method is to determine the setting history information of the object to be deleted based on the user's authentication status and the login status in the administrator's permissions.

[0116] [2.1 Functional Structure]

[0117] Figure 13 This diagram illustrates the functional configuration of the multifunction printer 30 according to the second embodiment. The multifunction printer 30 includes a storage unit 33 instead of the storage unit 23 of the multifunction printer 10 according to the first embodiment. Furthermore, in the following description, the same reference numerals are used for configurations identical to those of the multifunction printer 10 according to the first embodiment, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0118] In addition to the structure of storage unit 23, storage unit 33 also stores authentication program 331. Authentication program 331 is a program read by control unit 11 during user authentication.

[0119] The control unit 11 accepts, for example, input of authentication information related to user authentication, such as login username and login password, and performs user authentication. Additionally, when performing a login action with administrator privileges, the control unit 11 requests administrator information input as needed, or refers to registration information as an administrator user, thereby authenticating the administrator user.

[0120] The control unit 11 can perform user authentication by comparing the combination of login username and password entered by the user with the combination of login username and password pre-registered on the local machine. Alternatively, user authentication can be performed using an external authentication server. In this case, the login username and password used for authentication are stored by the authentication server.

[0121] In addition to the combination of login username and login password, user authentication can also be performed by using a combination of identification number, registration number and other identification number with login password, token, key, IC (integrated circuit) card, smartphone, etc., or biometric authentication such as fingerprint authentication or facial recognition.

[0122] [2.2 Processing Flow]

[0123] [2.2.1 Handling of valid user authentication]

[0124] First, use Figure 14 The flowchart illustrates the process for handling valid user authentication. Furthermore, regarding the first embodiment... Figure 5 The same process is described in the flowchart, and the same step numbers are marked. The process described here is the process performed by the control unit 11 through reading the authentication program 331, displaying the processing program 234, executing the job 231, setting the historical information processing program 232, and deleting the judgment program 233.

[0125] First, the control unit 11 receives the user's login username, login password and other authentication information via the authentication screen (step S100).

[0126] The control unit 11 performs user authentication based on the entered login username and password, and determines whether the user authentication is successful (step S110).

[0127] If user authentication is successful, the control unit 11 determines whether the user's setting history display instruction has been entered (step S110: Yes → step S10). On the other hand, if user authentication fails, the control unit 11 transfers the processing to step S40 (step S110: No → step S40).

[0128] If the display indicates that a setting history has been entered, the control unit 11 displays only the setting history information related to the successfully authenticated user (step S10: Yes → step S120). On the other hand, if the display indicates that no setting history has been entered, the control unit 11 transfers the processing to step S40 (step S10: No → step S40).

[0129] The control unit 11 receives the selection based on the user's set historical information (step S30).

[0130] If the control unit 11 receives a selection of setting history information, it reads the setting value file associated with the setting history information and displays a setting screen corresponding to the job type (step S40). In addition, if user authentication fails (step S110: No), or if no user setting history display instruction is entered (step S10: No), the control unit 11 displays a setting screen corresponding to the job type selected by the user (step S40).

[0131] When the control unit 11 receives the operation instruction input via the setting screen, it executes the operation (step S50 → step S60).

[0132] If the operation is performed, the control unit 11 determines whether the number of stored historical information has reached the prescribed limit (step S70).

[0133] If the number of stored setting history information reaches the prescribed limit, the control unit 11 performs setting history information deletion processing (step S70: Yes → step S80). On the other hand, if the number of stored setting history information does not reach the prescribed limit, the control unit 11 moves the processing to step S90 (step S70: No → step S90).

[0134] The control unit 11 stores the new setting history information involved in the operation executed in step S60 in the setting history information storage area 236 and ends the process (step S90).

[0135] [2.2.2 Regarding the processing of login actions in administrator privileges]

[0136] Next, use Figure 15 The flowchart illustrates the processing that accompanies the login action of administrators.

[0137] First, when executing Figure 5 or Figure 14 When the flowchart involves the processes from step S100 (step S10) to step S70, the control unit 11 determines whether the processes from step S100 (step S10) to step S70 are performed by an administrator user who has logged in with administrator privileges (step S130).

[0138] If the processing from step S100 (step S10) to step S70 is performed by an administrator user logged in with administrator privileges, the control unit 11 thoroughly checks the setting history information of all users using the multifunction printer 30 (step S130: Yes → step S140). Then, the control unit 11 determines the oldest setting history information from all the setting history information of all users and deletes it (step S150).

[0139] The control unit 11 stores the new setting history information involved in the operation executed in step S60 in the setting history information storage area 236 and ends the process (step S90).

[0140] Additionally, if the processes involved from step S100 (step S10) to step S70 are not performed by an administrator user logged in with administrator privileges, the control unit 11 executes the processes involved in step S810 of the historical information deletion process (step S130: No → step S810).

[0141] For example, if the determination of the setting history information to be deleted is the "determination of the setting history information with the fewest uses" in determination method (1), the control unit 11 calculates the number of times the setting history information is used as the usage performance of the setting history information (step S810).

[0142] Then, the control unit 11 determines the setting history information with the fewest uses (step S820). Furthermore, the processing involved in determining the setting history information in steps S810 and S820 can be set to any one of the determination methods (1) to (8) described above, or a combination of multiple determination methods.

[0143] Next, the control unit 11 informs the user that the confirmed setting history information is deletable setting history information (step S160).

[0144] The control unit 11 determines whether an explicit instruction to delete setting history information has been entered (step S170).

[0145] If the control unit 11 determines that the input is a deletion instruction for the specified setting history information, then deletes the oldest setting history information from the setting history information with the fewest usages (step S170: Yes → step S830).

[0146] On the other hand, if it is determined that no deletion instruction for the specified setting history information has been entered, the control unit 11 deletes the setting history information selected by the user (step S170: no → step S180).

[0147] The control unit 11 stores the new setting history information involved in the operation executed in step S60 in the setting history information storage area 236 and ends the process (step S90).

[0148] In this way, by granting all users the right to delete their configuration history information as administrator privileges, more efficient management of configuration history information can be achieved. Furthermore, for example, when multiple users maintain the same type of configuration history information, by setting it to save to the same destination based on administrator privileges without individual management, the efficiency of the storage area can be improved, increasing the overall storage capacity of configuration history information.

[0149] [2.3 Action Examples]

[0150] Next, examples of actions involved in the second embodiment will be described. Figure 16 This diagram illustrates an example of an authentication screen W40 that accepts input of authentication information such as login username and password. Users can log in to the multifunction printer 30 as logged-in users by authenticating themselves via the authentication screen W40.

[0151] The authentication screen W40 includes a login username input box Bx10, a login password input box Bx12, an authentication destination specification button B14, an OK button B16, and a cancel button B18.

[0152] The login username input box Bx10 is an input box that accepts the login username. Users attempting to log in to the multifunction printer 30, or administrators attempting to log in with administrator privileges, enter their login username in the login username input box Bx10. Alternatively, the login username can also be selected from a list of usernames (not shown) displayed by pressing the "Select from List" button configured next to the input box.

[0153] The login password input box Bx12 is an input box that accepts the login password corresponding to the login username. Users attempting to log in to multifunction printer 30 should enter both their login username and login password.

[0154] The authentication destination designation button B14 is used to accept the user's specified authentication destination. The authentication destination can be the device itself, or it can be, for example, an authentication server set up on a network. When the device's own authentication is selected as the authentication destination, the control unit 11 performs user authentication by comparing the entered login username and password with pre-prepared authentication information (e.g., a combination of username and password). On the other hand, when using an authentication server set up on a network, the control unit 11 sends the entered login username and password to the authentication server and performs user authentication by receiving the authentication result from the authentication server.

[0155] The OK button B16 accepts confirmation instructions from the user's input actions. The user presses the button after confirming the input in the login username input field Bx10 and the login password input field Bx12, and specifying the authentication destination via the authentication destination specification button B14. The Cancel button B18 is a button that receives cancellation instructions from the user's input actions.

[0156] Figure 17 (a) is an example of a configuration of the setting history display screen W50 according to the second embodiment. Furthermore, Figure 17 The action example shown in (a) is similar to Figure 14 The process involved in step S120 corresponds to this step. In addition to the configuration of the setting history display screen W10 in the first embodiment, the setting history display screen W50 also includes a login username display area R14.

[0157] In the settings history display area R10 of the W50, only the settings history information displayed is shown. Figure 14 In step S110, the user authentication successfully logged in, and the related configuration history information. For example, in Figure 3 If the configuration history information related to job IDs "0099" to "0095" is executed by the logged-in user "aaaaa", then the configuration history information related to job IDs "0099" to "0095" will be displayed in the configuration history information display area R10. Furthermore, since the logged-in username is displayed in the logged-in username display area R14, it is easy to determine whether the user (logged-in user) referring to the configuration history display screen W50 is related to whose (their own) configuration history information was executed.

[0158] Figure 17 (b) is an assumption that... Figure 17 (a) shows a screen display example where the setting history information related to job ID "0095" (highlighted by the dotted line in the figure) is identified as the setting history information to be deleted. Furthermore, this action example is similar to... Figure 14 The processing steps S60 to S90 correspond to each other.

[0159] Figure 17 As shown in (b), the setting history information related to job ID "0095" of the setting history information that is determined to be deleted is not displayed in the setting history information display area R10. The setting history information related to job ID "0100" generated by the new copy job is displayed as the latest setting history information at the top position of the setting history.

[0160] As described above, according to the second embodiment, in addition to the effects described in the first embodiment, a successfully authenticated logged-in user can only operate on their own execution job setting history information. Therefore, logged-in users do not have to worry about operating on the setting history information related to other users' execution jobs, thus preventing accidents such as accidentally deleting other users' setting history information. Furthermore, there is no possibility of leakage of destination information related to image transmission jobs for other users; therefore, according to the second embodiment, security is also improved.

[0161] [3 Third Implementation]

[0162] In the first embodiment, a method for calculating and processing setting history information to determine the objects to be deleted is implemented when the amount of stored setting history information reaches a predetermined limit. In the third embodiment, a method for calculating the number of times setting history information has been used is implemented after the job is executed, thereby achieving a more efficient method for deleting setting history information.

[0163] The functional configuration of the multifunction printer in the third embodiment is largely the same as that of the multifunction printer 10 in the first embodiment. In the case of the third embodiment, the control unit 11, which reads the setting history information processing program 232, performs calculation processing for determining the setting history information of the object to be deleted.

[0164] Figure 18 This is a flowchart illustrating the calculation process for the number of times historical information is used in the third embodiment. Figure 18 The description in the document explains the execution from... Figure 5 The processes involved in steps S10 to S30 will be explained. Additionally, the processes that can be combined with... Figure 5 For parts that are treated in the same way, the same step numbers are used for description.

[0165] The control unit 11 displays a setting screen corresponding to the type of operation (step S40). Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the user has changed the setting value through the displayed setting screen (step S190).

[0166] If it is determined that the setting value has been changed by the user, the control unit 11 temporarily stores the changed setting value (step S190: Yes → step S200). Furthermore, if it is determined that the setting value has not been changed by the user, the control unit 11 transfers the processing to step S50 (step S190: No → step S50).

[0167] When the control unit 11 receives the operation instruction input via the setting screen, it executes the operation (step S50 → step S60).

[0168] The control unit 11 refers to the setting history information stored in the setting history information storage area 236 and determines whether there is setting history information with the same job type and setting value file content as the setting history information involved in the execution of the job (step S210).

[0169] When it is determined that there is stored setting history information with the same content, the control unit 11 reads the usage count N as the setting history information as usage performance (step S210: Yes → step S220). Alternatively, the usage count N can be included as part of the setting value item in the setting value file, or it can be... Figure 7 As illustrated in the example, it is managed as a usage count management table that associates the number of times historical information is used with the job ID of the historical information.

[0170] Control unit 11 updates the usage count N by adding "1" to the usage count N read in step S220 and stores it (step S230 → step S240). In this case, it is not necessary to store the setting history information related to the execution of the job itself as new setting history information in the setting history information storage area 236. In this case, it is not necessary to reduce the storage capacity of the setting history information storage area 236 by deleting the changed setting values ​​temporarily stored in step S200.

[0171] On the other hand, when it is determined that no setting history information with the same content is stored, the control unit 11 stores the setting history information as new setting history information in the setting history information storage area 236 (step S210: no → step S90), and ends the process.

[0172] Thus, in the third embodiment, preprocessing for determining the setting history information to be deleted is performed before the amount of setting history information stored reaches a predetermined limit, thereby enabling efficient processing of setting history information deletion.

[0173] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, in order to achieve high efficiency in the setting history information deletion process, a method for determining setting history information to be deleted is described. However, the third embodiment can be applied to... Figure 12 Any one of the determination methods (2) to (8) illustrated in the example. That is, for any one of the determination methods (2) to (8), by setting the storage quantity of historical information before it reaches the specified limit (e.g., immediately after the operation is executed). Figure 18 The corresponding processing steps S210 to S240 can achieve high efficiency in setting up the deletion process of historical information.

[0174] This invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications can be made. That is, embodiments obtained by appropriately changing and combining technical means without departing from the scope of this invention are also included within the technical scope of this invention.

[0175] In addition, for ease of explanation, the above embodiments are described separately, but they can also be implemented in combination within the scope of technical feasibility.

[0176] Furthermore, the programs operating in each device of this embodiment are programs that control the CPU, etc. (programs that enable the computer to perform its functions), in order to achieve the functions of the above-described embodiments. Moreover, the information processed by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (e.g., RAM) during processing, and subsequently stored in various storage devices such as ROM (Read Only Memory), HDD, etc., and read, modified, and written by the CPU as needed.

[0177] 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, by executing the downloaded program, not only can the functions of the above-described embodiments be achieved, but the functions of the present invention can also be realized through joint processing by an operating system or other applications based on the instructions of the program.

[0178] Furthermore, when the product is distributed to the market, the program can be stored on a portable recording medium for processing, or transmitted to a server computer via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the server computer's storage device is naturally also included in this invention.

[0179] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0180] 10 and 30 composite machines

[0181] 11 Control Department

[0182] 13 Display Section

[0183] 15 Operation Input Section

[0184] 17 Ministry of Communications

[0185] 19 Image Forming Unit

[0186] 21 Image Reading Unit

[0187] Storage sections 23 and 33

[0188] 231 Job Execution Procedure

[0189] 232 Historical Information Processing Program

[0190] 233 Deletion Judgment Program

[0191] 234 Display Processor

[0192] 235 Setting value file storage area

[0193] 236. Set up historical information storage area

[0194] 237. Operation history information storage area

[0195] 25. Paper Supply Department

[0196] 27 Paper Output Department

Claims

1. A historical information management device, characterized in that, have: The storage unit is capable of storing a specified limit of historical configuration information related to job execution; and The control unit uses the aforementioned historical settings information to control the execution of the operation. When the amount of stored setting history information reaches the predetermined limit, the control unit deletes the setting history information from the storage unit based on its usage performance. The control unit deletes the stored setting history information related to the operation from the setting history information as the usage record of the setting history information, where only specific items are changed, wherein the specific items are the items that become the object of change each time they are used.

2. The historical information management device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, When the control unit deletes the setting history information from the storage unit, it deletes the setting history information that is stored in the oldest order among the stored setting history information.

3. The historical information management device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit deletes the stored historical settings information that has been used the least, based on the usage records of the historical settings information.

4. The historical information management device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit deletes the stored setting history information containing the fewest items that have changed from the initial value, based on the usage performance of the setting history information.

5. The historical information management device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit deletes the stored setting history information related to the job that has been used the least, based on the usage performance of the setting history information.

6. The historical information management device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit deletes the stored settings related to the processing of the job from the settings history information that are registered together with the settings history information related to the job being executed in the settings history information.

7. The historical information management device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit deletes stored settings history information that cannot execute the operation involved in the current settings history information, based on the usage records of the settings history information.

8. The historical information management device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The job includes image sending jobs with destinations selected from a registered address book. The control unit deletes the image transmission operation involving the destination selected from the address book as the transmission destination from the stored historical information of the settings, based on the usage record of the settings historical information.

9. The historical information management device as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The control unit deletes the stored setting history information that has been modified or deleted from the setting history information, based on the usage record of the setting history information.

10. The historical information management device as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, It also has a display unit that shows the set historical information. When user authentication is valid, the control unit displays only the setting history information related to that user on the display unit.

11. An image processing apparatus, characterized in that, have: The historical information management device as described in claim 1; and An image processing unit that performs image processing based on the aforementioned task.

12. A method for managing historical information, characterized in that, have: The storage step stores a specified limit of historical settings related to the execution of the job; The control steps utilize the aforementioned historical information to control the operation. as well as In the deletion step, if the amount of stored historical information reaches the predetermined limit, the historical information is deleted based on its actual usage. In the control step, as a record of the use of the setting history information, the setting history information related to the job that was changed only in the stored setting history information is deleted, wherein the specific item is the item that becomes the object of change each time it is used.

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