Processing device, image processing device, and program registration method

Abstract

To provide a processing device and the like which can reduce the user's burden for function settings, even on an operation screen with a small screen size.SOLUTION: A processing device includes: a display unit which displays a setting screen; and a control unit. When a setting via the setting screen relates to a specific function involving a predetermined number or more of screen transitions on the setting screen, the control unit registers a program having as a parameter a setting value received via the setting screen.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a processing device and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Among image processing devices such as multifunction peripherals, there are models that deal with device miniaturization and cost constraints by reducing the screen size of the operation screen.

[0003] On the other hand, in terms of functionality, a wide variety of functions have been implemented with recent technological advances. However, in order to set up the functions (hereinafter referred to as function setting) via a small operation screen, the user needs to switch screens and scroll the operation screen multiple times.

[0004] In view of such circumstances, for example, Patent Document 1 describes an automatic program registration function that automatically registers a combination of function settings and enables a user to arbitrarily select the combination of function settings. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2004-234195 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The present disclosure has an object to provide a processing device and the like that can reduce the burden on a user relating to function settings even on an operation screen with a small screen size. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, the processing device of the present disclosure includes a display unit that displays a setting screen, and a control unit, and the control unit is characterized in that when the setting via the setting screen is a setting for a specific function that involves screen transitions on the setting screen a predetermined number of times or more, the control unit registers a program in which the setting value received via the setting screen is a parameter.

[0008] In addition, the image processing device according to the present disclosure is characterized in that it comprises a processing device having a display unit that displays a setting screen, and a control unit that registers a program in which the setting value received via the setting screen is a parameter when the setting via the setting screen is for a specific function that involves a predetermined number of screen transitions on the setting screen, and an image processing unit that performs image processing based on the registered program.

[0009] In addition, a method of registering a program according to the present disclosure is characterized in that a setting screen is displayed on a display device, and if the setting via the setting screen is a setting for a specific function that involves screen transitions on the setting screen a predetermined number of times or more, a program is registered in which the setting value received via the setting screen is used as a parameter. Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a processing device or the like that can reduce the burden on a user relating to function settings even on an operation screen with a small screen size. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is an external perspective view of a multifunction peripheral according to an embodiment; [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a process flow according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining a function-specific screen management table. [Diagram 5] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a process flow according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a process flow according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to an embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to an embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to an embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to an embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to an embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to an embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to an embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a conventional technique. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In this disclosure, for example, a multifunction peripheral capable of executing jobs related to copying, faxing, image transmission, etc. in one housing will be described as one form of an image processing device. Note that the following embodiment is an example for explaining the present disclosure, and the technical scope of the description described in the claims is not limited to the following description.

[0013] Many recent multifunction peripherals are equipped with a touch panel display as an operation screen, which is made up of a display device (such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display)) that displays various information to a user and a touch panel as an input device.

[0014] An operation screen consisting of a touch panel display or the like is generally configured to have a substantially rectangular display screen on a part of the exterior of the device that is easily accessible to the user. In order to accommodate a wide variety of function settings, for example, multifunction devices equipped with a large display capable of displaying color displays, text objects spanning multiple lines, various types of information, images (icons and thumbnails), and the like are also known.

[0015] However, due to device miniaturization and cost constraints, some models are equipped with a small display with a limited screen size (display area), for example, capable of displaying only a few lines of character string objects. In models equipped with such a small display as an operation screen, the user is required to make multiple screen transitions and scroll many times in order to set a wide variety of functions.

[0016] As solutions to the above problems related to function settings, functions such as the "program function (favorite function) and pin function" that allow the user to manually register the settings of a job, and the "settings history function" that automatically stores the settings when a job is executed, are known.

[0017] However, the "program function (favorite function) and pin function" often have complicated registration methods, which can be cumbersome for users. Also, the "settings history function" has the problem that if the settings are registered (stored) without any restrictions, it can be difficult for users to find the setting history they want to use on a small display with a small screen size.

[0018] Here, an example of an operation example of the conventional technology will be described with reference to Fig. 20. Fig. 20 is a diagram for explaining the operation when registering a program and calling up the registered program in the program function according to the conventional technology.

[0019] 20(a) is an example of a display configuration example of a home screen W10 that accepts a display instruction of a setting screen. The home screen W10 is a basic screen that is displayed on a display device, for example, when the device is turned on, in standby mode, or when the device is restored from a sleep mode, and that accepts operation inputs by a user. The home screen W10 includes a setting screen selection button B10, a setting screen selection switching button B12, and a device information display area R10.

[0020] The setting screen selection button B10 is a selection button for receiving a display instruction input for a setting screen related to each job mode. Each selection button is configured as a selection button having a screen configuration in which each job function and each information are illustrated with figures, letters, numbers, symbols, etc.

[0021] The setting screen selection button B10 in FIG. 20A is an example configured as a selection button for receiving an instruction to display a setting screen related to function settings of functions belonging to each job mode such as copy, scan, fax, etc.

[0022] The setting screen selection switching button B12 is a button that accepts a selection instruction from the user when switching the display content of the setting screen selection button B10. When a selection instruction of the setting screen selection switching button B12 is accepted, the control unit 11 can switch the display content of the setting screen selection button B10 by switching the selection button to be displayed. In the drawing, the setting screen selection switching button B12 in the active state is represented by a black circle, and the setting screen selection button B10 corresponding to the black circle is displayed on the home screen W10.

[0023] The device information display area R10 is an area for displaying device information such as the remaining amount of toner, the Wi-Fi (registered trademark) connection status (communication status), and the like.

[0024] Fig. 20(b) is an example of a display configuration example of the setting screen W12 displayed when the copy button of the setting screen selection button B10 in Fig. 20(a) is selected. The setting screen W12 includes a function setting screen selection button B14, a setting screen selection switching button B12, a program registration button B16, a display area R12 for a start button, etc.

[0025] The function setting screen selection button B14 is a selection button for receiving an instruction to display a setting screen for functions belonging to the copy mode (hereinafter, a setting screen for setting functions in each mode may be referred to as a function setting screen). The function setting screen selection button B14 in FIG. 20(b) is an example configured with selection buttons for receiving an instruction to display a function setting screen related to paper selection, double-sided copying, and magnification. The display contents of the function setting screen selection button B14 can be switched by the setting screen selection switching button B12.

[0026] The setting screen selection switching button B12 is a button that accepts a selection instruction from the user when switching the display content of the function setting screen selection button B14. When a selection instruction of the setting screen selection switching button B12 is accepted, the control unit 11 can switch the display content of the function setting screen selection button B14 by switching the selection button to be displayed. In the figure, an active setting screen selection switching button B12 is represented by a black circle, and the function setting screen selection button B14 corresponding to the black circle is displayed on the setting screen W12.

[0027] The program registration button B16 is a button for accepting an instruction to register a program and an instruction to call a registered program. When the program registration button B16 is selected and an instruction is accepted, the control unit 11 displays a registered program display screen W50 as shown in FIG.

[0028] The start button etc. display area R12 includes display items such as a number of copies input box for receiving input of the number of copies, in addition to copy execution instruction input buttons such as a black and white start button and a color start button.

[0029] Fig. 20(c) is an example of a display configuration example of a registered program display screen W50 displayed by the control unit 11 in response to a selection instruction of the program registration button B16 illustrated in Fig. 20(b). The registered program display screen W50 includes a registered program display area R50 (enclosed in a thick frame in the figure).

[0030] The registered program display area R50 is an area for displaying registered programs. In the prior art, as shown in the dotted frame of program "01" in the figure, if the settings to be registered are stored without any restrictions, a small display with a limited display area cannot display all the registered settings at once, making it difficult for the user to find the function settings he or she desires to use.

[0031] Also, like the program "03" enclosed in a dashed line in the figure, a registered program may be expressed by a general name such as "Meeting Material 01." Since an image processing device such as a multifunction printer is used by multiple users, if a registered program is expressed by a general name, it becomes difficult to determine whether or not a function setting registered by another user is a program related to a function that the user wishes to use.

[0032] Furthermore, if the number of registered programs (number of registrations) is large, it becomes difficult for the user to find the registered program that he or she wishes to use within the registered program display area R50.

[0033] Furthermore, in order to check the setting contents of a program whose display has been omitted, it is necessary to select the ellipsis symbol to display the setting contents. Fig. 20(d) shows an example of a display configuration example of a details screen W52 displayed by the control unit 11 in response to the selection of the ellipsis symbol shown in a rectangular frame of program "04". The user can check the setting contents related to the function settings by checking the display contents of the details screen W52. However, while the details screen W52 is displayed, other operations cannot be performed, and it is difficult to say that the operability is excellent.

[0034] As shown in the example of Figure 20, when a small display with a limited display area is used as an operation screen, because the screen size is limited (small), the user needs to switch screens or scroll multiple times on the operation screen to select the function he or she wishes to set.

[0035] In the present disclosure, the following embodiments provide a processing device and the like that can reduce the burden on a user in terms of function settings even when the screen size of an operation screen is small.

[0036] [1 embodiment] [1.1 Functional configuration] The functional configuration of a multifunction device 10 according to an embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 1 and 2. Fig. 1 is an external perspective view for explaining the overall configuration of the multifunction device 10. Fig. 2 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction device 10 equipped with a processing device 1 according to the present disclosure. In addition to the configuration of the processing device 1 shown in the dotted line frame in Fig. 2, the multifunction device 10 also includes an image processing unit 21 and an image input unit 23.

[0037] The control unit 11 controls the entire processing device 1 and the multifunction device 10. The control unit 11 is configured, for example, with one or more arithmetic units (CPUs (Central Processing Units) and the like). The control unit 11 realizes its functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 19.

[0038] The display unit 13 is a display device that displays various information to a user, etc. The display unit 13 can be configured, for example, by an LCD, an organic EL (Electro-luminescence) display, or the like.

[0039] The operation input unit 15 accepts information input by a user or the like. The operation input unit 15 can be configured with various input devices such as operation keys such as hard keys and software keys, and buttons. The operation input unit 15 can be configured as a touch panel display that allows input via the display unit 13. In this case, the input method of the touch panel can be a general method such as a resistive film method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, or a capacitive method.

[0040] The communication unit 17 includes a wired / wireless interface or both for communicating with other devices (not shown) via a network NW such as a LAN (Local area network), a WAN (Wide area network), the Internet, a telephone line, a fax line, etc. The communication unit 17 may also include an interface related to (short-distance) wireless communication technology such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC (Near field communication), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), ZigBee (registered trademark), Irda, wireless USB, etc.

[0041] The storage unit 19 stores various programs and various data necessary for the operation of the processing device 1 and the multifunction device 10. The storage unit 19 can be configured with a storage device (memory) such as, for example, a random access memory (RAM), a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), or a read only memory (ROM).

[0042] In the embodiment, the storage unit 19 stores a control program 191, a display processing program 192, and a program registration program 193, and reserves a program storage area 194 and an image content storage area 195.

[0043] The control program 191 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 in order to comprehensively control the processing device 1 and the entire multifunction device 10. The control unit 11 that has read the control program 191 can realize functions that the multifunction device 10 performs as jobs, such as copying, faxing, and image data transmission, by controlling the display unit 13, the operation input unit 15, the communication unit 17, the image processing unit 21, or the image input unit 23.

[0044] The display processing program 192 is a program that the control unit 11 reads out when displaying a home screen, various function setting screens, a program registration screen, etc. on the display unit 13. The control unit 11 that reads out the display processing program 192 generates a home screen, various function setting screens, a program registration screen, etc. by using image content stored in the image content storage area 195, and displays them on the display unit 13.

[0045] The program registration program 193 is a program that the control unit 11 reads out when performing automatic or manual registration processing of a program with a setting value accepted via a function setting screen as a parameter. In the case of a configuration in which the program is manually registered, the control unit 11 that reads out the program registration program 193 can display a program registration button B16 on the function setting screen. The program registration program 193 includes a screen transition determination program 1931. The control unit 11 that reads out the screen transition determination program 1931 determines whether the setting via the function setting screen is related to a specific function that involves a predetermined number of screen transitions on the function setting screen or more, for example, by referring to a screen management table by function, which will be described later. If it is determined that the setting via the function setting screen is related to a specific function that involves a predetermined number of screen transitions on the function setting screen or more, the control unit 11 registers a program with a setting value accepted via the function setting screen as a parameter. Note that the program according to the present disclosure is a technology for permanently storing various functions (settings) and job settings based on a combination of various functions (settings) as a program, and indicates a collective setting that collectively registers various functions (settings) and settings related to jobs. By collectively registering settings related to various functions (settings) and jobs as a program, the number of steps required to execute processing based on various functions and jobs can be reduced.

[0046] The program storage area 194 is a storage area for storing a program that has been instructed to be registered by the control unit 11 that has read out the program registration program 193 .

[0047] The image content storage area 195 is a storage area for storing image content that constitutes a home screen, various function setting screens, a program registration screen, and the like.

[0048] The image processing unit 21 includes an image forming unit that forms an image based on image data on a paper medium such as paper. The image forming unit feeds paper from a paper feed unit 25, forms an image based on image data on the paper, and then discharges the paper to a paper discharge unit 27. The image forming unit can be configured, for example, by a laser printer that uses an electrophotographic method. In this case, the image forming unit forms an image using toner supplied from a toner cartridge (not shown) that corresponds to a toner color (for example, cyan, magenta, yellow, and black). The image processing unit 21 may also be configured to perform, for example, shading correction, density correction, and the like on the image data input from the image input unit 23 to generate image data for image transmission.

[0049] The image input unit 23 generates image data by scanning an original. The image input unit 23 can be configured as a scanner device having an image sensor such as a charge coupled device (CCD) or a contact image sensor (CIS), an automatic document feeder (ADF), or a flatbed for placing and reading an original. There is no particular limitation on the configuration of the image input unit 23 as long as it is capable of generating image data by reading a reflected light image from an original image with an image sensor. The image input unit 23 can also be configured as an interface capable of acquiring image data stored in a portable storage medium such as a universal serial bus (USB) memory, or image data transmitted from an external device (not shown).

[0050] [1.2 Processing flow] Next, a process flow according to the embodiment will be described. Fig. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a registration process of a program related to a specific function by the multifunction device 10. The control unit 11 executes the process according to the flowchart in Fig. 3 by reading and executing a control program 191, a display processing program 192, a program registration program 193, etc.

[0051] First, the control unit 11 determines whether or not a display instruction for a function setting screen has been received from the user via the display unit 13 (step S10). For example, the control unit 11 can determine that a display instruction for a function setting screen has been received by receiving a selection instruction for a selection button (e.g., a copy button, etc.) via a home screen.

[0052] When the control unit 11 determines that the instruction to display the function setting screen has been received, the control unit 11 displays the function setting screen on the display unit 13 (step S10; Yes->step S12). When the control unit 11 determines that the instruction to display the function setting screen has not been received, the control unit 11 waits until the instruction to display the function setting screen is received (step S10; No).

[0053] Then, the control unit 11 judges whether or not an item related to the function setting has been selected and a setting value, etc., has been input via the displayed function setting screen (hereinafter, may be simply referred to as input of a setting value, etc.) (step S14). If it is judged that a setting value, etc., related to the function setting has been input, the control unit 11 initializes the value of a program registration target flag for the function setting (step S14; Yes→step S16). On the other hand, if it is judged that a setting value, etc., related to the function setting has not been input, the control unit 11 returns the process to step S12 (step S14; No→step S12). The program registration target flag is a flag for identifying a function (setting) that is to be registered as a program.

[0054] Next, the control unit 11 executes a function specifying process to determine whether or not the input of the setting value or the like related to the function setting in step S14 relates to a specific function (step S18). The function specifying process will be described later.

[0055] If it is determined in the function identification process that the input of the setting value or the like related to the function setting in step S14 is related to a specific function, the control unit 11 sets the value of the program registration target flag to "1" (step S20; Yes -> step S22). However, if it is determined in step S14 that the input of the setting value or the like related to the function setting is not related to a specific function, the control unit 11 skips step S22 and proceeds to step S24 (step S20; No -> step S24).

[0056] The control unit 11 receives the setting values ​​and the like input in step S14 (step S24). Next, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the input of the settings and the like in step S24 has been completed (step S26).

[0057] When the control unit 11 determines that the input of the setting values ​​and the like is complete, it determines whether the value of the program registration target flag is "1" or not (step S26; Yes→step S28). When it determines that the value of the program registration target flag is "1", the control unit 11 registers a program that uses the setting values ​​and the like related to the function setting as parameters, and ends the process (step S28; Yes→step S30). On the other hand, when it determines that the value of the program registration target flag is "0", the control unit 11 ends the process without registering a program that uses the setting values ​​and the like related to the function setting as parameters (step S28; No→end). Note that when it determines that the input of the setting values ​​and the like is not complete, the control unit 11 returns the process to step S24 (step S26; No→step S24).

[0058] Next, the function identification process in step S18 in Fig. 3 will be described with reference to Fig. 4 and Fig. 5. Fig. 4 is a diagram for explaining an example of the data configuration of a function-specific screen management table referred to by the control unit 11 in the function identification process. Fig. 5 is a flowchart for explaining the function identification process.

[0059] 4 is a table in which the number of screen transitions (number of screen transitions) that occur when an item related to the function setting is selected or a setting value is input is associated with each function (setting). The function-specific screen management table may include, for example, a function ID, a function name, a group, image content, and the number of screen transitions as management items.

[0060] The function ID is an identifier given to uniquely identify each function. The function name indicates the name of the function identified by the identification ID. The group indicates the job mode to which the function belongs. The image content indicates the image content that is the basis of the setting screen that accepts the selection of items related to function setting and setting values, etc. The image content is stored in the image content storage area 195, and is appropriately called from the image content storage area 195 based on the control of the control unit 11 that reads out the display processing program 192, and is used to generate the setting screen for each function. The number of screen transitions indicates the number of screen transitions of the function setting screen required for the user to complete the function setting.

[0061] For example, the "magnification" function associated with function ID "#0001" is a function that belongs to the job mode "copy." To complete the function settings associated with the "magnification" function, screen transitions through five image contents "a01.jpg" to "a05.jpg" are required, which indicates that a total of "4" screen transitions are involved. Note that the screen management table by function need not be in the table format illustrated in FIG. 4, but may be in, for example, a database format.

[0062] When the function setting of the function to be referred to involves a screen transition of the setting screen a predetermined number of times or more, the control unit 11 determines the function as a specific function. In the process described in Fig. 5, an example will be described in which the function setting is determined to be a specific function when the function setting involves a screen transition of the setting screen three times or more as the predetermined number of times.

[0063] When the process of step S18 in Fig. 3 is started, the control unit 11 refers to the function-specific screen management table exemplified in Fig. 4 (step S1810). In this case, the control unit 11 may refer to the function-specific screen management table by acquiring identification information related to the function ID, function name, etc. of the function to be referred to in step S14 in Fig. 3, etc.

[0064] As a result of referring to the screen management table by function, if the number of screen transitions related to the function setting of the referenced function is three or more, the control unit 11 determines that the function is a specific function and ends the process (step S1812; Yes->step S1814). On the other hand, if the number of screen transitions related to the function setting of the referenced function is less than three, the control unit 11 determines that the function is not a specific function and ends the process (step S1812; No->step S1816).

[0065] Incidentally, in the function identification process, in addition to using the function-specific screen management table exemplified in FIG. 4, it is also possible to count the number of screen transitions on the function setting screen associated with the input of setting values, etc., and determine as a specific function a function related to a function setting for which the final number of screen transitions is equal to or greater than a predetermined number.

[0066] For example, Fig. 6 is a flow chart explaining a process of counting up the number of transitions every time the function setting screen transitions, and judging whether or not the function related to the function setting is a specific function after input of the setting value, etc. Note that the processes related to steps S10 and S12 explained in Fig. 3 can be common, so the explanation here is omitted.

[0067] After executing the processes in steps S10 and S12, the control unit 11 sets the value of the screen transition count N to "1" (step S40).

[0068] The control unit 11 accepts input of settings, etc. via the displayed function setting screen (step S42). Then, the control unit 11 determines whether a screen transition trigger has been input (step S44). Here, the screen transition trigger is not particularly limited as long as it triggers a screen transition from the function setting screen where input of setting values, etc. has been completed to the next function setting screen (a lower-level function setting screen). For example, it is possible to use input of a specific setting value as a trigger for a screen transition, or to use selection of a specific setting item as a trigger for a screen transition. It is also possible to provide a selection button (e.g., a "Next" button) on the function setting screen to prompt the user to make a screen transition, and use selection of the selection button as a trigger for a screen transition.

[0069] If it is determined that the screen transition trigger has been input, the control unit 11 performs a screen transition of the function setting screen (step S44; Yes->step S46).Then, the control unit 11 increments the screen transition count N (step S48).

[0070] On the other hand, if it is determined that the screen transition trigger has not been input, the control unit 11 skips the processes in steps S46 and S48 and proceeds to the process in step S50 (step S44; No→step S50).

[0071] In step S50, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the input of the set values, etc. is complete. If it is determined that the input of the set values, etc. is not complete, the control unit 11 returns the process to step S42 (step S50; No→step S42).

[0072] When it is determined that the input of the setting values, etc. is completed, the control unit 11 determines whether the number of screen transitions N is 3 or more (step S50; Yes → step S52). When it is determined that the number of screen transitions N is 3 or more, the control unit 11 determines that the function is a specific function (step S52; Yes → step S54). Then, the control unit 11 registers a program that uses the setting values, etc. related to the function settings of the function as parameters, and ends the process (step S56 → end). On the other hand, when the control unit 11 determines that the number of screen transitions N is less than 3, it determines that the function is not a specific function and ends the process (step S52; No → step S58).

[0073] Incidentally, the program registration process relating to step S30 in FIG. 3 and step S56 in FIG. 6 has been described as being automatically executed by the control unit 11 based on the determination result of the specific function. However, the program registration process according to the present disclosure may be executed upon receiving a selection of the program registration button B16 by the user. That is, in the present disclosure, the program registration process can be performed automatically or manually. When the program registration process is performed manually and the value of the program registration target flag is "0", display control may be performed to hide or gray out the display of the program registration button B16, or it is also possible to notify the user that the function is not a program registration target when the program registration button B16 is operated.

[0074] [1.3 Example of operation] Next, an operation example according to this embodiment will be described. In the operation example, the following aspects (1) to (3) will be described. Note that, when it is possible to use the same reference symbols as those in FIG. 20, the same reference symbols will be used and the description thereof will be omitted. Aspect (1): In the case where the setting via the function setting screen is a setting for a specific function that involves a predetermined number of screen transitions on the function setting screen or more, a program is registered in which the setting value received via the function setting screen is used as a parameter. Mode (1-1): With regard to the display of a function setting screen, a mode in which a function setting screen relating to a function that does not correspond to a specific function is preferentially displayed. Mode (1-2): A mode in which manually accepted setting values ​​are excluded from being registered as a program. Mode (2): A mode in which a program is registered with a specific function as a registration unit. Aspect (3): With regard to the reception of setting values ​​via a function setting screen, functions in which the setting can be completed simply by selecting a selection button are excluded from the registration as a program.

[0075] [1.3.1 Regarding aspect (1)] The control unit 11 of the multifunction device 10 does not register function settings related to all functions as a program, but registers specific functions that involve screen transitions of a predetermined number of times (three times) or more on the function setting screen related to the function setting as the program registration target. For example, FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a function "black and white inversion" belonging to a copy mode in which function setting is completed in one screen (first layer). Here, the predetermined number refers to the number of transitions of the function setting screen from a reference setting screen (reference setting screen), and in this embodiment, the setting screen for each job mode (for example, the setting screen W12 related to the copy mode) that the control unit 11 first displays upon the user's selection of the setting screen selection button B10 on the home screen W10 will be described as the reference setting screen. It is also possible to use the home screen W10 as the reference setting screen instead of the setting screen for each job mode.

[0076] Fig. 7(a) is an example of a display configuration example of a setting screen W14 that accepts an instruction to switch the function "black and white inversion" between ON and OFF. The setting screen W14 includes a function setting screen selection button B14, similar to the setting screen W12 described above. Fig. 7(b) is an example of a display configuration example of the setting screen W14 when the black and white inversion button of the function setting screen selection button B14 is selected by the user.

[0077] 7(a) and 7(b), the function "black and white inversion" is set by simply switching between enabled and disabled (ON / OFF), so even if the black and white inversion button is selected, no screen transition occurs, and only the ON / OFF setting value is switched. For functions such as the function "black and white inversion", whose function setting is completed by a screen transition of one screen (one layer) by selecting the setting screen selection switching button B12 from the display state of the setting screen W12, the control unit 11 does not register the function as a program.

[0078] Similarly, FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining a function "page combination" belonging to the copy mode, in which the function setting is completed on two screens (two hierarchical layers), and a function "density" belonging to the fax mode.

[0079] Fig. 8(a) is an example of a display configuration example of a setting screen W14 that accepts function settings for the function "page aggregation." Also, Fig. 8(c) is an example of a display configuration example of a setting screen W18 that accepts function settings for the function "density." The setting screen W14 shown in Fig. 8(a) and the setting screen W18 shown in Fig. 8(c) each include a function setting screen selection button B14, similar to the setting screen W12 described above.

[0080] Fig. 8(b) is an example of a display configuration example of a setting screen W16 displayed by the control unit 11 when the user selects the page aggregation button of the function setting screen selection button B14 on the setting screen W14 of Fig. 8(a). Also, Fig. 8(d) is an example of a display configuration example of a setting screen W20 displayed by the control unit 11 when the user selects the density button of the function setting screen selection button B14 on the setting screen W18 of Fig. 8(c).

[0081] In the case of the function exemplified by the function "page aggregation" or the function "density", the function setting is completed through a screen transition of two screens (two hierarchies) from the reference setting screen (for example, setting screen W12 → setting screen W14 → setting screen W16) as shown in Fig. 8(b) and Fig. 8(d). The control unit 11 does not register programs for functions such as the function "page aggregation" or the function "density" whose function setting is completed through a screen transition of two screens (two hierarchies) from the reference setting screen.

[0082] Next, as an example of a specific function in which the function setting screen for function setting involves screen transitions a predetermined number of times (three times) or more, the function "frame erase" will be described with reference to Figs. 9 to 11.

[0083] The function "Border Erase" belongs to the copy mode and is a function that erases the shadows and frame lines around the scanned document. To complete the function setting related to the function "Border Erase", it is necessary to set the erasure range in the top, bottom, left, right and center of the scanned document.

[0084] 9 to 11 are diagrams for explaining screen transitions of the setting screen for the function "Border Removal." Note that the screen transition from the home screen W10 in Fig. 9(a) to the setting screen W14 in Fig. 9(c) is the same as that shown in Fig. 7, and therefore will not be described here.

[0085] When the user selects the frame erase button of the function setting screen selection button B14 on the setting screen W14 illustrated in Figure 9(c), the control unit 11 transitions the screen to a setting screen W22, which accepts input of setting values ​​related to the function "frame erase", illustrated in Figure 9(d).

[0086] The setting screen W22 includes a check box area R14 for accepting the designation of the portion of the frame to be erased, an erasure range display area R16, and an OK button B18. The check box area R14 is an area for displaying check boxes for accepting the selection of the portion of the frame to be erased. The erasure range display area R16 is an area for displaying a numerical value (erasure range) accepted via the numeric keypad Tk10 described in the next figure. The OK button B18 is a button for accepting an instruction to confirm the settings on the setting screen W22 etc.

[0087] FIG. 10(a) shows a state in which the user has checked the areas to be erased ("left" and "center" in the figure) in the checkbox area R14. When the user selects the erasure range display area R16 (outer frame) from the display state of FIG. 10(a), the control unit 11 transitions the screen to a setting screen W24, which accepts input of numerical values ​​as the erasure range, as exemplified in FIG. 10(b). The setting screen W24 includes a numeric keypad Tk10, a numerical input box Bx10, and an OK button B18.

[0088] As shown in Fig. 10(b), when the user inputs a predetermined value (e.g., "7") into the numeric input box Bx10 using the numeric keypad Tk10 and selects the OK button B18, the control unit 11 transitions the screen again to the setting screen W22 shown in Fig. 10(c). Then, when the user selects the erasure range display region R16 (center) from the display state of Fig. 10(c), the control unit 11 transitions the screen again to the setting screen W24 shown in Fig. 10(d).

[0089] As shown in the example of FIG. 10(d), when the user inputs a predetermined value (e.g., "5") into the numeric input box Bx10 and selects the OK button B18, the control unit 11 transitions the screen again to the setting screen W22 shown in FIG. 11(a). Then, when the user selects the OK button B18, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the setting screen W14. At this time, the frame erase button of the function setting screen selection button B14 reflects the setting value input into the numeric input box Bx10 and is displayed.

[0090] As an example of a specific function in which the setting screen for function setting transitions a predetermined number of times (three times) or more, similar to the function "frame erase," the function "destination selection" will be described with reference to Figs. 12 and 13. The function "destination selection" is a function that belongs to the fax mode, and the selection of a destination using an address book will be described here. The configuration of the setting screen W18 in Fig. 12(a) is the same as the example in Fig. 8, so a description thereof will be omitted here.

[0091] When the user selects the address book button of the function setting screen selection button B14 on the setting screen W18 illustrated in FIG. 12(a), the control unit 11 transitions the screen to a setting screen W26A relating to the function “destination selection” illustrated in FIG. 12(b).

[0092] The setting screen W26A includes an address display area R18, a fax number display area R18A, and an index display area R20. The address display area R18 is an area that displays addresses that can be selected as destinations for fax transmission from an address book managed by the multifunction device 10. The fax number display area R18A is an area that displays the fax number corresponding to the address selected in the address display area R18. The index display area R20 is an area that displays an index in which the first letters of each address are arranged in alphabetical order to make it easier to select an address to display in the address display area R18.

[0093] Before a destination is selected by the user, all destinations are displayed in the address display area R18 of the setting screen W26A, and nothing is displayed in the fax number display area R18A. For example, assume that the address "Akai Saburo" is selected by the user in the address display area R18 of the setting screen W26A. Then, the fax number "012-3456-7890" corresponding to the selected address "Akai Saburo" is displayed in the fax number display area R18A of the setting screen W26B in FIG. 12(c).

[0094] In the index display area R20 of the setting screen W26B shown in FIG. 12(c), the setting screen W26C shown in FIG. 12(d) shows a state where the "ka" row in the index display area R20 is selected by the user. Furthermore, in the index display area R20 of the setting screen W26C, the setting screen W26D shown in FIG. 13(a) shows a state where the hiragana "ku" is selected. The setting screen W26D is an example in which an address having the initial letter "ku" is displayed in the address display area R18 by selecting the hiragana "ku" in the index display area R20 of the setting screen W26C. And, FIG. 13(b) shows a state where a specific address (for example, "Kuribayashi Shiro") is selected from the addresses displayed in the address display area R18 of the setting screen W26D shown in FIG. 13(a). The fax number "012-0987-6543" corresponding to the selected address "Kuribayashi Shiro" is displayed in the fax number display area R18A.

[0095] The control unit 11 registers a specific function, such as the function "frame deletion" or the function "destination selection", whose function setting is completed in three or more screen transitions (three hierarchical levels) from the reference setting screen, as a program registration target.

[0096] In this way, according to (Aspect 1), by registering only specific functions that involve a predetermined number (three or more) of screen transitions on the function setting screen for function setting, the number of registered programs can be relatively reduced. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the storage unit 19 of the multifunction device 10 from being overwhelmed by storing unnecessary registered programs. Furthermore, even if there is a limit to the number of programs that can be registered, it is possible to effectively utilize limited resources.

[0097] [1.3.2 Regarding aspect (1-1)] The control unit 11 of the multifunction device 10 can display function setting screens related to functions that do not correspond to specific functions with priority in displaying the function setting screen. Here, displaying with priority means that the buttons displayed as the function setting screen selection buttons B14 are ranked, for example, in order of the number of screen transitions on the function setting screen, and the function setting screen selection buttons B14 related to the highest ranked functions are displayed in order from the top layer. Note that the priority corresponds to the arrangement order of the setting screen selection switching buttons B12, and the priority increases from the right to the left in the figure, and the function setting screen corresponding to the setting screen selection switching button B12 located at the leftmost position is described as the function setting screen with the highest priority and displayed in the top layer.

[0098] Fig. 14 is a diagram for explaining an example of an operation example of mode (1-1). Fig. 14 is an example of a display configuration example of a setting screen W28 based on mode (1-1). In the setting screen W28A (reference setting screen) illustrated in Fig. 14(a), the functions displayed as the function setting screen selection button B14A relate to "color", "original", and "paper selection" belonging to the copy mode. These functions displayed as the function setting screen selection button B14A have the highest priority over the other functions illustrated in Fig. 14, and are functions in which the function setting screen related to the function setting does not involve screen transitions more than a predetermined number of times (three times).

[0099] 14B, the functions displayed as the function setting screen selection button B14B are related to the copy mode functions "duplex copy", "density", and "black and white inversion". These functions displayed as the function setting screen selection button B14B have a lower priority than the functions displayed as the function setting screen selection button B14A, and are functions that do not involve screen transitions of the function setting screen related to the function settings more than a predetermined number of times (three times).

[0100] On the other hand, the setting screen W28C shown in Fig. 14(c) displays functions as function setting screen selection buttons B14C related to "magnification", "combine pages", and "border erase" in the copy mode. These functions displayed as function setting screen selection buttons B14C have the lowest priority compared to the other functions shown in Fig. 14, and are specific functions in which the function setting screen for function setting involves screen transitions a predetermined number of times (three times) or more.

[0101] Similarly, Fig. 15 is a diagram for explaining another example of the operation example of mode (1-1). Fig. 15 is an example of a display configuration example of a setting screen W18 based on mode (1-1). In the setting screen W18A (reference setting screen) illustrated in Fig. 15(a), the functions displayed as the function setting screen selection button B14A are related to "direct input", "transmission history", and "screen reading" belonging to the fax mode. These functions displayed as the function setting screen selection button B14A have the highest priority over the other functions illustrated in Fig. 15, and are functions for which the function setting screen related to the function setting does not involve screen transitions a predetermined number of times (three times) or more.

[0102] 15B, the functions displayed as the function setting screen selection button B14B are related to "image quality" and "density" in the fax mode. These functions displayed as the function setting screen selection button B14B have a lower priority than the functions displayed as the function setting screen selection button B14A, and the function setting screen related to the function setting does not transition more than a predetermined number of times (three times).

[0103] On the other hand, the setting screen W18C shown in Fig. 15(c) displays functions as function setting screen selection buttons B14C related to "Address Book" and "Document" in the fax mode. These functions displayed as function setting screen selection buttons B14C have the lowest priority compared to the other functions shown in Fig. 15, and are specific functions in which the function setting screen for function setting involves screen transitions a predetermined number of times (three times) or more.

[0104] In this way, according to aspect (1-1), even for functions that are not subject to registration as programs, the operations related to function setting can be completed with a small number of operations.

[0105] [1.3.3 Regarding aspect (1-2)] The control unit 11 of the multifunction device 10 can exclude manually accepted setting values ​​from being registered as programs.

[0106] 16 and 17 are diagrams for explaining an example of an operation example of the mode (1-2). Fig. 16 is a diagram for explaining function settings in the function "magnification" as an example of accepting manual input of a setting value.

[0107] Here, Fig. 16(a) is an example of a display configuration example of a setting screen W30 including a function "magnification" as a function setting screen selection button B14. When a user selects the magnification button of the function setting screen selection button B14, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to a setting screen W32 illustrated in Fig. 16(b).

[0108] The setting screen W32 includes a magnification input area R22 that accepts selection and manual input of a setting value related to the function "magnification." When the user selects manual input in the magnification input area R22, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to a setting screen W34 illustrated in FIG. 16(c).

[0109] The setting screen W34 is a setting screen that accepts input of a setting value related to the function "magnification" by the user, and includes a numeric keypad Tk12 and a numeric input box Bx12.

[0110] As shown in Fig. 16(c), when the user inputs a predetermined value (e.g., "123") into the numeric input box Bx12 using the numeric keypad Tk12 and selects the OK button B18, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the setting screen W30 shown in Fig. 16(d) again. At this time, the magnification button of the function setting screen selection button B14 reflects the setting value input into the numeric input box Bx12 and is displayed.

[0111] As shown in the example of FIG. 16, the function "multiplication factor" corresponds to a specific function in which the function setting screen for function setting involves screen transitions a predetermined number of times (three times) or more, and therefore can be registered as a program.

[0112] FIG. 17(a) is an example of a display configuration example of the registered program display screen W54 when a program related to the function "magnification" described in FIG. 16 is registered as program "04". In the registered program display area R54, the magnification related to program "04" is displayed as "manual input". In this case, when "manual input" is selected and the OK button B18 is selected, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to a setting screen W34 that accepts input of a setting value related to the function "magnification" by the user (FIG. 17(b)). Note that, as exemplified by program "01", when a program is registered with a fixed magnification (70%), the control unit 11 does not transition the screen to the setting screen W34, and the setting value is reflected.

[0113] In this way, according to the aspect (1-2), since manually inputted setting values ​​are not registered as individual programs, it is possible to reduce the number of programs displayed in the registered program display area R52.

[0114] [1.3.4 Regarding aspect (2)] The control unit 11 of the multifunction device 10 can register a program with a specific function as a registration unit.

[0115] Fig. 18 is a diagram for explaining an example of an operation example of mode (2). A setting screen W36 illustrated in Fig. 18(a) includes a program registration button B16 in addition to the configuration of the setting screen W22 illustrated in Fig. 9(d).

[0116] The program registration button B16 is a button for accepting an instruction to register a program with a specific function (frame removal) as a registration unit in the setting screen W36 illustrated in FIG. 18(a), for example. When the user selects the program registration button B16, the control unit 11 registers a program related to the specific function (frame removal) and transitions the screen to a registered program display screen W56 illustrated in FIG. 18(b). FIG. 18(b) is an example of displaying a setting value related to a specific function (frame removal) registered as a program in the registered program display area R56 of the registered program display screen W56. In the aspect (2), a program can be registered in a specific function unit, and a program can be called in a specific function unit. Note that, when a program in a specific function unit has already been registered and the registered contents (setting values) are the same, it is preferable to restrict the registration of the program related to the specific function. In this case, the registered contents already registered may be overwritten. By allowing program registration for a specific function and controlling to prevent duplicate registration of programs for a specific function, it is possible to prevent registration of similar but different programs for a job and duplicate registration of programs for a specific function. As a result, it is possible to prevent the storage unit 19 of the multifunction device 10 from being overwhelmed by storing unnecessary registered programs, and to effectively utilize the program registration slots.

[0117] [1.3.5 Regarding aspect (3)] The control unit 11 of the multifunction device 10 can exclude from registration as a program any function whose setting can be completed simply by selecting a selection button with respect to the reception of setting values ​​via a setting screen.

[0118] Fig. 19 is a diagram for explaining an example of an operation example of mode (3). The registered program display screen W58 illustrated in Fig. 19 is an example of a display configuration example of a program in which only manually input setting values ​​(e.g., numerical values, file names, address names, etc.) are registered as programs to be registered, and functions whose function setting can be completed by only selecting a selection button are not registered as programs to be registered. In mode (3), the registration target of the program is limited to manually input values ​​using a soft keyboard or numeric keypad, which are cumbersome to set via a small screen such as a small display, thereby eliminating the cumbersomeness of user operations.

[0119] The program registration conditions according to aspect (3) and the program registration conditions according to aspect (1-2) (functions that manually accept input of setting values ​​are excluded from the registration targets as programs: see FIG. 17(a)) can be switched by the user in the system settings, etc., depending on the usage situation, etc. With this configuration, it is possible to realize effective use of the program registration function in accordance with the operation of each user.

[0120] [2 Variations] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible. In other words, the technical scope of the present invention also includes embodiments obtained by combining technical means that are appropriately modified within the scope of the gist of the present invention.

[0121] Although the above-described embodiments are described separately for convenience of explanation, they may be combined and executed within a technically feasible range.

[0122] In addition, the programs that run on each device in the embodiments are programs that control the CPU and the like (programs that make a computer function) so as to realize the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments. Information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (e.g., RAM) during processing, and is then stored in various storage devices such as ROMs (Read Only Memories) and HDDs, and is read, modified, and written by the CPU as necessary.

[0123] Here, the recording medium for storing the program may be any of 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 (registered trademark) Disc, etc.)), magnetic recording media (e.g., magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.), etc. Furthermore, not only are the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments realized by executing the loaded program, but the functions of the present invention may also be realized by processing in cooperation with an operating system or other application programs, etc., based on instructions from the program.

[0124] In addition, when distributing the program on the market, the program can be stored in a portable recording medium and distributed, or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the storage device of the server computer is of course included in the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0125] 1 Processing equipment 10 Multifunction device 11 Control section 13 Display section 15 Operation input section 17 Communications Department 19 Memory section 191 Control Program 192 Display Processing Program 193 Program Registration Program 1931 Screen Transition Judgment Program 194 Program Memory Area 195 Image Content Storage Area 21 Image processing section 23 Image input section

Claims

1. A display unit that displays a setting screen; A control unit. The control unit is A processing device characterized in that, when the setting via the setting screen is a setting for a specific function that involves a predetermined number of screen transitions on the setting screen or more, a program is registered in which the setting value received via the setting screen is used as a parameter.

2. The control unit is The processing device according to claim 1 , wherein when the setting screen is related to the specific function and involves three or more screen transitions, the processing device registers the program.

3. The display unit is 2. The processing device according to claim 1, wherein, with regard to the display of the setting screen, the setting screen relating to a function not corresponding to the specific function is preferentially displayed.

4. The control unit is 2. The processing device according to claim 1, wherein the setting values ​​manually input by a user are excluded from the registration of the program.

5. The control unit is 2. The processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the program is registered with a job including the specific function as a registration unit.

6. The control unit is 2. The processing device according to claim 1, wherein the program is registered with the specific function as a registration unit.

7. The control unit is 7. The processing device according to claim 6, wherein, when the program having the specific function as a registration unit has already been registered, registration of a program having the same registration contents is restricted.

8. The control unit is 2. The processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a function in which the setting is completed by merely selecting a selection button in response to the reception of the setting value via the setting screen is excluded from the registration targets as the program.

9. The control unit is 2. The processing device according to claim 1, further comprising: a processor configured to receive a registration condition for the program relating to the specific function set by a user.

10. A display unit that displays a setting screen; a processing device having a control unit that, when the setting via the setting screen is a setting related to a specific function that involves screen transitions on the setting screen a predetermined number of times or more, registers a program that uses the setting value received via the setting screen as a parameter; and an image processing unit that performs image processing based on the registered program.

11. Displaying a setting screen on a display device, A program registration method characterized in that, when the setting via the setting screen is a setting for a specific function that involves screen transitions on the setting screen a predetermined number of times or more, a program is registered that has the setting value received via the setting screen as a parameter.

Images