Image forming apparatus, information processing apparatus, image forming system, program, control method of image forming apparatus, control method of information processing apparatus and control method of image forming system

Abstract

To provide an image forming apparatus that can switch validity and invalidity of operation on the image forming apparatus through remote operation.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus 1 comprises: a network communication unit 13 which receives instruction information from an external information processing apparatus with which communication has been established; an operation panel 14 which includes a touch panel for receiving operation, displays a plurality of operation objects, and includes hardware keys independent of the touch panel; and a control unit 11 which enables operation of an operation object instructed to be validated by the instruction information and disables operation of other operation objects among the plurality of operation objects displayed on the operation panel 14 and the hardware keys based on the instruction information received from the information processing apparatus.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, an information processing apparatus, an image forming system, a program, a control method for an image forming apparatus, a control method for an information processing apparatus, and a control method for an image forming system, which enable and disable operations by remote control. [Background technology]

[0002] Image forming devices that form images on paper are equipped with a remote panel function that displays the screen of the operation panel on an information processing device such as a personal computer or a mobile terminal. By using this function, it is possible to remotely operate the operation panel of the image forming device from a remote location and use it for maintenance from a remote location.

[0003] However, for security reasons, it may be prohibited for an operator to directly operate an image forming apparatus installed in a customer's environment by remotely operating an operation panel.

[0004] In this case, the customer's staff must operate the operation panel of the image forming device through a telephone conversation, etc. However, recent image forming devices have become multifunctional and have larger panel screens, resulting in a large number of screens and screen components, making it difficult to explain the intended operations to the staff through conversation alone.

[0005] In view of this, an image forming system has been proposed in which guidance marks for issuing operating instructions to the image forming apparatus are displayed on an operation screen based on instruction coordinates transmitted from a remote control device (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0006] Also, a system has been proposed that can perform control to restrict operations that instruct a predetermined operation in an image forming apparatus in response to a remote panel operation from an external terminal device (see, for example, Patent Document 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] JP 2006-140898 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2015-149623 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] However, in the method of displaying guidance marks on the operation screen for instructing the user to operate the image forming apparatus, there is a possibility that the customer's staff member may misunderstand the guidance mark display and perform the operation.

[0009] Furthermore, in the method in which the remote operation range is restricted on the image forming apparatus side, it is not possible to prevent erroneous operation by the person in charge at the customer's side who operates the image forming apparatus.

[0010] The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and provides an apparatus, a system, a program, and a control method that enable switching between enabling and disabling operations on an image forming apparatus by remote control. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides an image forming device that includes a communication unit that receives instruction information from an external information processing device with which communication has been established, an operation panel that has a touch panel that receives operations, displays multiple operation objects, and has hardware keys that are independent of the touch panel, and a control unit that, based on the instruction information received from the information processing device by the communication unit, enables operation of an operation object that is instructed to be enabled by the instruction information, out of the multiple operation objects and hardware keys displayed on the operation panel, and disables operation of the other operation objects.

[0012] The present invention also provides an information processing device that includes a communication unit that receives an operation screen from an image forming device with which communication has been established and transmits instruction information, a display unit that displays an instruction screen including the operation screen, an operation unit that receives an operation to select an operation target to be enabled from the instruction screen displayed on the display unit, and a control unit that generates instruction information that indicates the operation target to be enabled selected by the operation unit.

[0013] Furthermore, the present invention is an image forming system comprising an image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus via a network, the image forming apparatus comprising a communication unit that receives instruction information from the information processing apparatus with which communication has been established, an operation panel having a touch panel that receives operations, displays multiple operation objects, and has hardware keys independent of the touch panel, and a control unit that, based on the instruction information received from the information processing apparatus by the communication unit, enables operation of an operation object that is instructed to be enabled by the instruction information, among the multiple operation objects and hardware keys displayed on the operation panel, and disables operation of other operation objects, and the information processing apparatus comprises a communication unit that receives an operation screen from the image forming apparatus with which communication has been established and transmits instruction information, a display unit that displays an instruction screen including the operation screen, an operation unit that receives an operation to select an operation object to be enabled from the instruction screen displayed on the display unit, and a control unit that generates instruction information instructing the operation object to be enabled selected by the operation unit.

[0014] The present invention also relates to a program executed by a control unit of an image forming apparatus, which causes the control unit of the image forming apparatus to execute the following steps: establishing communication with an external information processing device; receiving instruction information from the information processing device with which communication has been established; and, based on the instruction information received from the information processing device, making operable an operation object that is instructed to be enabled by the instruction information, among multiple operation objects displayed on an operation panel and hardware keys provided on the operation panel, and making inoperable the other operation objects.

[0015] Furthermore, the present invention is a program executed in a control unit of an information processing device, which causes the control unit of the information processing device to execute the steps of establishing communication with an image forming device, receiving an operation screen from the image forming device with which communication has been established, displaying an instruction screen including the operation screen, receiving an operation to select an operation target to be enabled from the instruction screen, generating instruction information that indicates the selected operation target to be enabled, and transmitting the instruction information to the image forming device.

[0016] The present invention also provides a control method for an image forming device that executes the steps of establishing communication with an external information processing device, receiving instruction information from the information processing device with which communication has been established, and, based on the instruction information received from the information processing device, making operable an operation object that is instructed to be enabled by the instruction information, among a plurality of operation objects displayed on an operation panel and hardware keys provided on the operation panel, and making inoperable the other operation objects.

[0017] Furthermore, the present invention is a control method for an information processing device that executes the steps of establishing communication with an image forming device, receiving an operation screen from the image forming device with which communication has been established, displaying an instruction screen including the operation screen, receiving an operation to select an operation target to be enabled from the instruction screen, generating instruction information that indicates the selected operation target to be enabled, and transmitting the instruction information to the image forming device.

[0018] The present invention also provides a control method for an image forming system including an image forming device and an information processing device connected to the image forming device via a network, in which the image forming device executes the steps of: establishing communication with an external information processing device; receiving instruction information from the information processing device with which communication has been established; and, based on the instruction information received from the information processing device, making operable an operation object, among a plurality of operation objects displayed on an operation panel and hardware keys provided on the operation panel, that is instructed to be enabled by the instruction information, and making inoperable other operation objects; and the information processing device executes the steps of establishing communication with the image forming device, receiving an operation screen from the image forming device with which communication has been established, displaying an instruction screen including the operation screen, receiving an operation to select an operation object to be enabled from the instruction screen, generating instruction information instructing the selected operation object to be enabled, and transmitting the instruction information to the image forming device. Effect of the Invention

[0019] In the present invention, an operation target that enables an operation on an image forming device can be set by remote operation from an information processing device. This reduces the likelihood of a user operating an image forming device erroneously operating an operation target that is not required when an operator operating the information processing device guides a user operating the image forming device. In addition, the operator does not need to directly operate an image forming device installed in a customer's environment by remotely operating an operation panel of the image forming device. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] 1 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of an image forming system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 1 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 3] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an operation screen displayed on the image forming apparatus. [Figure 4] 1 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an instruction screen displayed on the information processing device. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a server according to the present embodiment. [Figure 7] 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a control method of the image forming system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 8] 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a control method of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. [Figure 9] 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a control method of the information processing device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an operation for selecting an operation target to be enabled; [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an operation screen in which only operation targets to be enabled are made active; [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the operation for selecting an operation target to be enabled. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an operation screen showing an operation target to be enabled; [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the operation screen showing an operation target to be enabled. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the operation screen showing an operation target to be enabled. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the operation screen showing an operation target to be enabled. [Figure 17] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the operation screen showing an operation target to be enabled. [Figure 18] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the operation screen showing an operation target to be enabled. [Figure 19] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the operation screen showing an operation target to be enabled. [Figure 20] 10 is a flowchart showing another example of the control method of the image forming system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 21] 10 is a flowchart showing another example of the control method of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. [Figure 22]10 is a flowchart showing another example of the control method of the image forming system according to the present embodiment. [Diagram 23] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a control method of the server according to the present embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0021] Hereinafter, an embodiment of an image forming apparatus, an information processing apparatus, an image forming system, and a program executed by the image forming apparatus and the information processing apparatus of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Also, an embodiment of a control method for the image forming apparatus, a control direction of the information processing apparatus, and a control method for the image forming system of the present invention will be described.

[0022] <Configuration Examples of Image Forming Apparatus, Information Processing Apparatus, and Image Forming System of the Present Embodiment> 1 is a functional block diagram showing an example of an image forming system according to the present embodiment. The image forming system 100 includes an image forming apparatus 1 and an information processing apparatus 2.

[0023] The image forming apparatus 1 is connected to a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) 101. The information processing apparatus 2 is connected to, for example, the same LAN 101 as the image forming apparatus 1. As a result, the image forming apparatus 1 and the information processing apparatus 2 are connected to be able to communicate with each other via the LAN 101.

[0024] The information processing device 2 may be connected to a WAN (Wide Area Network) 102. The WAN 102 is connected to a LAN 101 via a gateway 103. A server 104 is also connected to the WAN 102. The server 104 relays between the image forming device 1 and the information processing device 2. As a result, even if the information processing device 2 is not connected to the same LAN 101 as the image forming device 1, the image forming device 1 and the information processing device 2 are connected so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0025] 2 is a functional block diagram showing an example of an image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. The image forming apparatus 1 includes a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, a network communication unit 13, an operation panel 14, an image processing unit 15, an image reading unit 16, and a printer unit 17.

[0026] The printer unit 17 forms an image on a sheet of paper, for example, by electrophotography. The image reader unit 16 optically reads an original. The image processor 15 converts the optically read original into an electrical signal.

[0027] The operation panel 14 includes a display unit 14a and an operation unit 14b. The display unit 14a is configured with a liquid crystal display or the like.

[0028] The operation unit 14b includes a touch panel (not shown). The touch panel is provided on the screen of the display unit 14a. The display unit 14a and the touch panel configure a software key. The operation unit 14b may also include hardware keys as a physical mechanism, such as a numeric keypad, that is independent of the touch panel.

[0029] The network communication unit 13 is configured with a communication interface that can be connected to a network such as the LAN 101 .

[0030] The storage unit 12 is configured with a hard disk drive (HDD), etc. The control unit 11 is configured with a central processing unit (CPU), a random access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), etc.

[0031] The storage unit 12 stores a remote operation instruction program 200 for receiving remote operation by the information processing device 2.

[0032] The control unit 11 executes the remote operation instruction program 200 to receive instruction information from the information processing device 2. The instruction information is information instructing an operation target that can accept an operation by the operation unit 14b among a plurality of operation targets, such as jobs that can be executed by the image forming device 1 and settings of each job. The control unit 11 sets whether or not to accept an operation by the operation unit 14b, based on the instruction information received from the information processing device 2.

[0033] The remote operation instruction program 200 is stored in the storage unit 12, but is not limited to this. For example, a storage medium storing the program may be prepared, and the program stored in this storage medium may be stored in the storage unit 12. The storage medium storing the program is, for example, an external storage medium such as a magnetic disk, an optical disk, or an SSD (Solid State Drive). The program may also be stored in a server 104 connected to the image forming apparatus 1 by a wired or wireless network via the network communication unit 13. The program is sent from the server to the image forming apparatus 1 via the network, and stored in the storage unit 12.

[0034] The control unit 11 reads out the remote operation instruction program 200 from the storage unit 12 and executes it. This causes the information processing device 2 to perform remote operation. However, the remote operation may be realized by processing by a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) instead of processing by the control unit 11. The remote operation may be realized in part by processing by the DSP, or in whole by processing by the DSP. Furthermore, the remote operation may be realized by processing by the DSP together with the processing by the control unit 11. Similarly, the remote operation may be realized by processing by a dedicated hardware circuit instead of or together with processing by software.

[0035] 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an operation screen displayed on the image forming apparatus. The control unit 11 displays an operation screen 300 on the display unit 14a of the operation panel 14. The operation screen 300 displays icons 300a each showing a job or the like as a schematic image or an image and text as a plurality of operation objects. When the position of any icon 300a on the display unit 14a is touched, the control unit 11 identifies what the operation object is from the coordinates. Then, the control unit 11 executes control according to the selected operation object.

[0036] The control unit 11 sets an icon 300a that allows the operation by the operation unit 14b to be accepted on the operation screen 300 based on the instruction information received from the information processing device 2. The control unit 11 also sets an icon 300a that disables the acceptance of an operation by the operation unit 14b on the operation screen 300 based on the instruction information received from the information processing device 2. The operation of setting whether or not the operation by the operation unit 14b can be accepted will be described later in detail.

[0037] 4 is a functional block diagram showing an example of an information processing device according to the present embodiment. The information processing device 2 includes a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, a network communication unit 23, a display unit 24a, and an operation unit 24b.

[0038] The display unit 24a is composed of a liquid crystal display, etc. The operation unit 24b is composed of a keyboard, a mouse, etc. The keyboard may be composed of hardware keys, or may be composed of the display unit 24a and software keys such as a touch panel.

[0039] The network communication unit 23 is configured with a communication interface that can be connected to networks such as the LAN 101 and the WAN 102, the server 104, and the like.

[0040] The storage unit 22 is configured with a HDD, etc. The control unit 21 is configured with a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, etc.

[0041] The storage unit 22 stores a remote operation instruction program 201 for remotely operating the image forming apparatus 1.

[0042] 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an instruction screen displayed on the information processing device. The control unit 21 executes the remote operation instruction program 201 to acquire an operation screen 300 and the like displayed on the operation panel 14 of the image forming device 1. If the operation unit 14b of the image forming device 1 is equipped with hardware keys, the control unit 21 generates image data depicting the hardware keys. Then, the control unit 21 displays an instruction screen 302 on the display unit 24a, which is a combination of the operation screen 300 and the hardware keys 301 depicted by the image data. An operation palette 302a is displayed on the instruction screen 302. The operation palette 302a receives an operation to select an operation target to be enabled.

[0043] The control unit 21 selects an operation target that can be operated by the operation unit 14b of the image forming apparatus 1 from the instruction screen 302 displayed on the display unit 24a by operating the operation unit 24b. The control unit 21 also generates instruction information based on the operation target selected on the instruction screen 302. The control unit 21 also transmits the instruction information to the image forming apparatus 1.

[0044] In the image forming apparatus 1, the control unit 11 identifies what the operation target is from the coordinates of the operation target, such as an icon selected on the operation screen 300 by operating the operation unit 14b. Therefore, for the operation target selected on the operation screen 300 in the instruction screen 302, the control unit 11 can identify what the operation target is by including the coordinates of the operation target in the instruction information.

[0045] The remote operation instruction program 201 is stored in the storage unit 22, but is not limited thereto. For example, a storage medium storing the program may be prepared, and the program stored in this storage medium may be stored in the storage unit 22. The storage medium storing the program is, for example, an external storage medium such as a magnetic disk, an optical disk, or an SSD (Solid State Drive). The program may also be stored in a server 104 connected to the information processing device 2 by a wired or wireless network via the network communication unit 23. The program is sent from the server to the information processing device 2 via the network, and stored in the storage unit 22.

[0046] The control unit 21 reads out the remote operation instruction program 201 from the storage unit 22 and executes it. This causes the information processing device 2 to remotely operate the image forming device 1. However, the remote operation may be realized by processing by a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) instead of processing by the control unit 21. The remote operation may be realized in part by processing by the DSP, or in whole by processing by the DSP. Furthermore, the remote operation may be realized by processing by the DSP together with the processing by the control unit 21. Similarly, the remote operation may be realized by processing by a dedicated hardware circuit instead of or together with processing by software.

[0047] 6 is a functional block diagram showing an example of a server according to the present embodiment. The server 104 includes a control unit 105, a storage unit 106, and a network communication unit 107.

[0048] The network communication unit 107 is configured with a communication interface that can be connected to a network such as the WAN 102 .

[0049] The storage unit 106 is configured with a HDD, etc. The control unit 105 is configured with a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, etc.

[0050] The storage unit 106 stores a relay program 202 that relays between the information processing device 2 and the image forming device 1.

[0051] The control unit 105 executes the relay program 202 to relay between the information processing device 2 and the image forming device 1 .

[0052] <Examples of operation of the image forming apparatus, information processing apparatus, and image forming system according to the present embodiment> Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a control method for the image forming system of this embodiment. Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a control method for the image forming apparatus of this embodiment, and Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a control method for the information processing apparatus of this embodiment. Next, a control method for the image forming apparatus, a control method for the information processing apparatus, and a control method for the image forming system executed by a program will be described.

[0053] In FIG. 7, F1, F2, . . . indicate processing steps of the processing executed by the image forming apparatus 1 and the information processing apparatus 2.

[0054] F1: The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 executes the remote operation instruction program 201. As a result, the information processing device 2 establishes a connection with the image forming device 1.

[0055] F2(1): The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 displays the operation screen 300 shown in FIG.

[0056] F2(2): The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 executes the remote operation instruction program 201 to obtain the operation screen 300 from the image forming device 1. The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 displays the instruction screen 302 shown in FIG. 5, which is a combination of the operation screen 300 and hardware keys 301, on the display unit 24a.

[0057] The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 transmits a bitmap image of the operation screen 300 displayed on the display unit 14a of the operation panel 14 to the information processing apparatus 2. The control unit 21 of the information processing apparatus 2 displays an instruction screen 302 including the operation screen 300 from the bitmap image of the operation screen 300 on the display unit 24a.

[0058] Alternatively, the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 transmits a Web script of an operation screen 300 to be displayed on the display unit 14a of the operation panel 14 to the information processing device 2. The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 displays an instruction screen 302 including the operation screen 300 on the display unit 24a based on the Web script of the operation screen 300.

[0059] F3: The operator who operates the information processing device 2 selects an operation target for validating an operation by the operation unit 14b of the image forming device 1 from the instruction screen 302 by operating the operation unit 24b.

[0060] 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an operation for selecting an operation target to be enabled. As an operation method for selecting an operation target to be enabled, the operator selects, for example, an operation for surrounding the operation target to be enabled with a line or a figure of a predetermined shape on the operation palette 302a.

[0061] The operator surrounds the operation target to be enabled in a circular figure 303 from the operation screen 300 displayed on the instruction screen 302 by operating the mouse constituting the operation unit 24b. In FIG. 10, only an icon 300an indicating an operation target called "simple copy" is selected to be enabled from among a plurality of operation targets. Alternatively, the operator selects the operation target to be enabled by placing a cursor on the operation target to be enabled on the instruction screen 302 and clicking with the mouse. Alternatively, the operator selects the operation target to be enabled by inputting an ID such as a number that identifies the operation target to be enabled. Alternatively, the operator selects the operation target to be enabled by pointing at the operation target to be enabled with a guide mark such as an arrow shape.

[0062] The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 acquires coordinate information on the operation screen 300 for the operation target to be enabled that is selected from the operation screen 300 displayed on the instruction screen 302.

[0063] F4: The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 generates instruction information including coordinate information, ID, etc. of the operation target to be enabled, and transmits it to the image forming device 1. The control unit 11 of the image forming device 1 identifies the operation target to be enabled based on the instruction information received from the information processing device 2. Furthermore, the control unit 11 of the image forming device 1 disables operation targets other than the operation target to be enabled, making them inoperable, based on the instruction information received from the information processing device 2. Then, the control unit 11 of the image forming device 1 generates an operation screen 300 in which only the operation targets to be enabled are activated.

[0064] F5(1): The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 updates the operation screen 300 displayed on the display unit 14a to an operation screen 300 in which only the operation targets to be enabled are made active.

[0065] 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an operation screen in which only the operation target to be enabled is activated. In the operation screen 300N in which only the operation target to be enabled is activated, for example, only the icon 300an indicating the operation target called "simple copy" is activated. In addition, in the operation screen 300N, the icon 300an of the operation target to be enabled may be indicated by a guide mark 304 such as an arrow shape. Furthermore, in the operation screen 300N, the display of the icon 300a of the operation target to be disabled is grayed out, and displayed in the same manner as a normal disabled icon.

[0066] If the icon 300an of the operation target to be enabled is simply pointed to with the guidance mark 304, the user may misunderstand and, for example, press the adjacent "scan" icon 300a. In this case, the operation will be different from the operation instructed by the operator. In response to this, on the operation screen 300N, the icon 300an of the operation target to be enabled is displayed in color. Also, on the operation screen 300N, the display of the icon 300a of the operation target to be disabled is grayed out to disable the acceptance of the operation. This makes it possible to distinguish the operation target by color even in appearance on the operation screen 300N, and guides the user to prevent unintended operations. Note that there may be multiple operation targets to be enabled.

[0067] F5(2): The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 transmits the operation screen 300 in which only the operation targets to be enabled are activated to the information processing apparatus 2. The control unit 21 of the information processing apparatus 2 updates the operation screen 300 displayed on the instruction screen 302 to the operation screen 300 in which only the operation targets to be enabled are activated.

[0068] F6: The user operating the image forming apparatus 1 operates the enabled operation target on the operation screen 300 of the operation panel 14.

[0069] F7(1): The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 updates the operation screen 300 in accordance with the operation target operated on the operation screen 300.

[0070] F7(2): The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 transmits the operation screen 300 updated in response to the user's operation to the information processing apparatus 2. The control unit 21 of the information processing apparatus 2 updates the operation screen 300 displayed on the instruction screen 302 to the operation screen 300 updated in response to the operation of the user of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0071] The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 and the control unit 21 of the information processing apparatus 2 return to F2 and continue the operation until the remote operation is completed.

[0072] In FIG. 8, S1, S2, . . . indicate processing steps of the processing executed by the information processing device 2.

[0073] S1: When an operator performs an operation to instruct the start of remote operation, the control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 executes a remote operation instruction program. The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 transmits a connection request to the image forming device 1 by the remote operation instruction program. When the control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 receives a connection permission signal from the image forming device 1, it establishes a connection with the image forming device 1.

[0074] S2: The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 acquires the operation screen 300 from the image forming device 1. The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 displays an instruction screen 302, which is a combination of the operation screen 300 and hardware keys 301 and the like, on the display unit 24a.

[0075] S3: The operator selects an operation target for which operation by the operation unit 14b of the image forming apparatus 1 is to be enabled from the instruction screen 302 by operating the operation unit 24b.

[0076] S4: When the operator finishes selecting the operation targets to be enabled, he / she instructs transmission of instruction information.

[0077] S5: The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 generates instruction information including coordinate information, an ID, and the like of the operation target to be validated, and transmits the instruction information to the image forming device 1.

[0078] S6: The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 judges whether or not the operator has performed an operation to instruct the end of the remote operation.

[0079] S7: When the operator performs an operation to instruct the end of the remote operation, control unit 21 transmits a signal to end the remote operation to image forming apparatus 1. When control unit 21 of information processing device 2 transmits the signal to end the remote operation to image forming apparatus 1, it releases the connection with image forming apparatus 1 and ends the remote operation.

[0080] The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 updates the instruction screen 302 at the timing when the image forming device 1 transmits the operation screen 300. On the other hand, the control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 may periodically transmit a signal requesting the operation screen 300 to the image forming device 1 to obtain the operation screen 300.

[0081] In FIG. 9, S11, S12, . . . indicate processing steps of the processing executed by the image forming apparatus 1.

[0082] S11: When the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 receives a connection request from the information processing apparatus 2, the control unit 11 executes necessary processes such as authentication according to the remote operation instruction program. When the authentication is successful, the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 transmits a connection permission signal to the information processing apparatus 2 and establishes a connection with the information processing apparatus 2.

[0083] S12: The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 transmits the operation screen 300 displayed on the display unit 14a of the operation panel 14 to the information processing apparatus 2.

[0084] S13: The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 determines whether instruction information has been received from the information processing apparatus 2.

[0085] S14: The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1, based on the instruction information received from the information processing apparatus 2, identifies an operation target to be validated.

[0086] S15: Based on the instruction information received from the information processing device 2, the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 invalidates operation targets other than the operation target to be validated.

[0087] S16: The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 generates an operation screen 300 in which only the operation targets to be enabled are activated. The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 updates the operation screen 300 displayed on the display unit 14a to an operation screen 300 in which only the operation targets to be enabled are activated. Note that there may be a case where there are multiple operation targets to be enabled.

[0088] S17: The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 judges whether or not a signal to end the remote operation has been received from the information processing apparatus 2.

[0089] S18: When the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 receives a signal to end the remote operation from the information processing apparatus 2, the control unit 11 releases the connection with the information processing apparatus 2 and ends the remote operation.

[0090] The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 periodically transmits the operation screen 300 to the information processing apparatus 2. On the other hand, when the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 receives a signal requesting the operation screen 300 from the information processing apparatus 2, the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 may transmit the operation screen 300 to the information processing apparatus 2.

[0091] 12 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the operation of selecting an operation target to be enabled. The operation target to be enabled is not limited to an operation target such as an icon 300a displayed on the operation screen 300, but may be a hardware key provided on the operation unit 14b. In this case, the operator performs an operation of surrounding a hardware key 301 displayed on an instruction screen 302 with a circular figure 303 by operating the mouse constituting the operation unit 24b or the like.

[0092] 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an operation screen showing an operation target to be enabled. Unlike the icon 300a, the hardware key 301 cannot be distinguished as enabled or disabled by the presence or absence of a grayed-out display. Therefore, when the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 receives instruction information, it generates an operation screen 300N1 that combines the hardware key 301 drawn by image data.

[0093] The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 displays, on the display unit 14a, an operation screen 300N1 in which the hardware key 301 drawn based on image data is surrounded by a rectangular figure 305. This makes it possible to show on the operation screen 300N1 that the hardware key 301 is an enabled operation target. Note that, if there is an icon to be disabled among the icons 300a displayed on the operation screen 300N1, the display of the disabled icon 300a may be grayed out.

[0094] 14 to 19 are explanatory diagrams showing other examples of the operation screen showing the operation targets to be enabled. Fig. 14 shows an example in which "original image quality" is selected on the operation screen 300N2 after "simple copy" has been selected, and the list 306 corresponding to "original image quality" is displayed. Fig. 14 also shows an example in which only the list 306a of "photo (printed photo)" is set as the operation target to be enabled by operating the information processing device 2. In this case, the lists 306 to be disabled other than the list 306a of "photo (printed photo)" are displayed in gray.

[0095] Fig. 15 shows an example in which "Page Aggregation" is selected on the operation screen 300N3 after "Simple Copy" has been selected, and a selectable menu is displayed in a pull-down display. Fig. 15 also shows an example in which only the "2in1" menu 307a in the pull-down menu 307 is set as an operation target for enabling by operating the information processing device 2. In this case, the pull-down menus 307 to be disabled other than the "2in1" menu 307a are displayed in gray.

[0096] FIG. 16 is an example in which "Duplex Settings" is selected on the operation screen 300N4 after "Scan (Email Send)" is selected, and a list 308 corresponding to "Duplex Settings" is displayed. In FIG. 16, a plurality of icons 308a are included in the list 308. FIG. 16 is an example in which only the "single-sided reading" icon 308a is made active by operating the information processing device 2. In this case, the "single-sided reading" icon 308a is indicated by the guidance mark 308b, and the user is guided to the "single-sided reading" icon 308a. Furthermore, icons to be disabled other than the "single-sided reading" icon 308a are grayed out. Furthermore, list displays to be disabled other than the "duplex settings" list 308 are grayed out.

[0097] Fig. 17 is an example in which a plurality of icons are operated on an operation screen 300N5 where text input such as function search is performed. Fig. 17 is an example in which only the "search" icon 309a is enabled by operating the information processing device 2. In this case, the text box 309b is indicated with a guidance mark 309c, and the user is guided to the "search" icon 309a. In addition, the icons to be disabled other than the "search" icon 309a are displayed in a grayed-out state.

[0098] 18 and 19 are examples in which the operation of the information processing device 2 for selecting an operation target to be enabled is depicted on the display unit 14a of the image forming device 1. FIG.

[0099] Fig. 18 is an example in which a plurality of icons are operated on an operation screen 300N6 where text input for function search and the like is performed, similarly to Fig. 17. Fig. 18 is an example in which only the "search" icon 309a is enabled as an operation target by operating the information processing device 2. In this case, the operator draws, for example, a rectangular figure surrounding the operation target to be enabled on the information processing device 2. The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 generates instruction information including image data of, for example, a rectangular figure that identifies the operation target to be enabled, and transmits it to the image forming device 1. The control unit 11 of the image forming device 1 combines, for example, a rectangular figure surrounding the operation target to be enabled with the operation screen 300N6. As a result, the "search" icon 309a and text box 309b are surrounded by, for example, a rectangular figure 310 on the operation screen 300N6. The lines constituting the figure 310 may be black or may be colored red or the like.

[0100] FIG. 19 is an operation screen 300N7 in which multiple operation targets are displayed as icons 300a that show jobs and the like in schematic images or images and characters, similarly to FIG. 3. FIG. 19 is an example in which only the "simple copy" icon 300an is set as an operation target to be enabled by the operation of the information processing device 2. In this case, the operator draws, for example, a circular figure surrounding the operation target to be enabled on the information processing device 2. The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 generates instruction information including, for example, image data of a circular figure that identifies the operation target to be enabled, and transmits it to the image forming device 1. The control unit 11 of the image forming device 1 combines, for example, a circular figure surrounding the operation target to be enabled on the operation screen 300N7. As a result, the "simple copy" icon 300an is surrounded by, for example, a circular figure 311 on the operation screen 300N7. The lines that make up the figure 311 may be black or may be colored red or the like. In addition, the icons 300a to be disabled other than the "simple copy" icon 300an are grayed out.

[0101] Fig. 20 is a flowchart showing another example of the control method of the image forming system of this embodiment. Fig. 21 is a flowchart showing another example of the control method of the image forming apparatus of this embodiment. Next, a control method of the image forming system in which the operation of the information processing device 2 for selecting an operation target to be enabled is displayed on the display unit 14a of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described.

[0102] 20, F11, F12, . . . indicate processing steps of processing executed by the image forming apparatus 1 and the information processing apparatus 2 of the image forming system 100.

[0103] F11: The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 executes the remote operation instruction program 201. As a result, the information processing device 2 establishes a connection with the image forming device 1.

[0104] F12(1): The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 displays the operation screen 300 shown in FIG.

[0105] F12(2): The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 executes the remote operation instruction program 201 to obtain the operation screen 300 from the image forming device 1. The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 displays the instruction screen 302 shown in FIG. 5, which is a combination of the operation screen 300 and hardware keys 301, on the display unit 24a.

[0106] F13: The operator of the information processing device 2 selects an operation target for enabling an operation by the operation unit 14b of the image forming device 1 from the instruction screen 302 by operating the operation unit 24b. The operator surrounds the operation target to be enabled with a circular figure 303 from the operation screen 300 displayed on the instruction screen 302, as shown in FIG.

[0107] F14: The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 generates image data in which a figure 303 surrounding the operation target to be validated is drawn, and transmits the image data to the image forming device 1.

[0108] The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 acquires coordinate information on the operation screen 300 for the operation target to be enabled that is selected from the operation screen 300 displayed on the instruction screen 302.

[0109] F15: The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 generates instruction information including coordinate information, ID, etc. of the operation target to be enabled, and transmits it to the image forming device 1. The control unit 11 of the image forming device 1 identifies the operation target to be enabled based on the instruction information received from the information processing device 2. Furthermore, the control unit 11 of the image forming device 1 disables operation targets other than the operation target to be enabled based on the instruction information received from the information processing device 2. Furthermore, the control unit 11 of the image forming device 1 synthesizes image data in which a figure 303 is drawn surrounding the operation target to be enabled. Then, the control unit 11 of the image forming device 1 generates an operation screen 300 in which only the operation target to be enabled is activated.

[0110] F16(1): The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 updates the operation screen 300 displayed on the display unit 14a to, for example, an operation screen 300N6 shown in Fig. 18. Alternatively, the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 updates the operation screen 300 to, for example, an operation screen 300N7 shown in Fig. 19 in which only the operation targets to be enabled are activated.

[0111] F16(2): The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 transmits the operation screen 300N6 shown in Fig. 18 or the operation screen 300N7 shown in Fig. 19 to the information processing apparatus 2. The control unit 21 of the information processing apparatus 2 updates the operation screen 300 displayed on the instruction screen 302 to the operation screen 300N6 shown in Fig. 18 or the operation screen 300N7 shown in Fig. 19.

[0112] F17: The user who operates the image forming apparatus 1 operates the enabled operation target on the operation screen 300 of the operation panel 14.

[0113] F18(1): Control unit 11 of image forming apparatus 1 updates operation screen 300N6 or operation screen 300N7 in accordance with the operation target operated on operation screen 300.

[0114] F18(2): The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 transmits the operation screen 300 updated in response to the user's operation to the information processing apparatus 2. The control unit 21 of the information processing apparatus 2 updates the operation screen 300 displayed on the instruction screen 302 to the operation screen 300 updated in response to the operation of the user of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0115] The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 and the control unit 21 of the information processing apparatus 2 return to F12 and continue the operation until the remote operation is completed.

[0116] 21, S21, S22, etc. indicate processing steps of processing executed by image forming apparatus 1. Fig. 21 is obtained by adding a processing step of S26 to the flowchart of Fig. 9.

[0117] The processing steps S21 to S25 in Fig. 21 are the same as the processing steps S11 to S15 in Fig. 9. The processing steps S27 to S29 in Fig. 21 are the same as the processing steps S16 to S19 in Fig. 9. Therefore, detailed explanations of the processing steps other than S26 will be omitted.

[0118] S26: The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus combines image data in which a figure 303 surrounding the operation target to be enabled is drawn, with the operation screen 300. As a result, in the example of Fig. 18, the "search" icon 309a and the text box 309b are surrounded by, for example, a rectangular figure 310 on the operation screen 300N6. Also, in the example of Fig. 19, the "simple copy" icon 300an is surrounded by, for example, a circular figure 311 on the operation screen 300N7. Also, the display of the icons 300a to be disabled other than the "simple copy" icon 300an is grayed out.

[0119] In the process executed by the information processing device 2, image data in which a figure 303 surrounding the operation target to be enabled is drawn is added to the instruction information transmitted in the process step S5 in Fig. 8. Other than that, the process is the same as each process step in Fig. 8, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0120] Fig. 22 is a flowchart showing another example of the control method of the image forming system of this embodiment. Also, Fig. 23 is a flowchart showing an example of the control method of the server of this embodiment. Next, a control method of the image forming system using server 104 as a relay will be described.

[0121] 22, F21, F22, . . . indicate processing steps of processing executed by the image forming apparatus 1, the information processing apparatus 2, and the server 104 of the image forming system 100.

[0122] F21: The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 executes the remote operation instruction program 201. As a result, the information processing device 2 establishes a connection with the server 104.

[0123] F22: The control unit 105 of the server 104 executes the relay program 202. As a result, the server 104 establishes a connection with the image forming apparatus 1. As a result, the information processing apparatus 2 establishes a connection with the image forming apparatus 1.

[0124] F23: The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 displays the operation screen 300 shown in FIG.

[0125] F24: The control unit 105 of the server 104 executes the relay program 202 to obtain the operation screen 300 from the image forming apparatus 1 and relays it to the information processing apparatus 2.

[0126] F25: The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 executes the remote operation instruction program 201 to acquire the operation screen 300 from the image forming device 1 via the server 104. The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 displays the instruction screen 302 shown in FIG. 5, which is a combination of the operation screen 300 and hardware keys 301, on the display unit 24a.

[0127] F26: The operator of the information processing device 2 selects an operation target for enabling an operation by the operation unit 14b of the image forming device 1 from the instruction screen 302 by operating the operation unit 24b. The operator surrounds the operation target to be enabled with a circular figure 303 from the operation screen 300 displayed on the instruction screen 302, as shown in FIG.

[0128] F27: The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 generates image data in which a figure 303 surrounding the operation target to be validated is drawn, and transmits the image data to the server 104.

[0129] F28: The control unit 105 of the server 104 acquires image data, in which a figure 303 surrounding the operation target to be validated is drawn, from the information processing device 2, and relays it to the image forming device 1.

[0130] The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 acquires coordinate information on the operation screen 300 for the operation target to be enabled that is selected from the operation screen 300 displayed on the instruction screen 302.

[0131] F29: The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 generates instruction information including the coordinate information, ID, and the like of the operation target to be validated, and transmits the instruction information to the server 104.

[0132] F30: The control unit 105 of the server 104 acquires instruction information from the information processing device 2 and relays it to the image forming device 1.

[0133] The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 identifies operation targets to be enabled based on the instruction information received from the information processing apparatus 2. The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 also disables operation targets other than the operation target to be enabled based on the instruction information received from the information processing apparatus 2. The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 further synthesizes image data in which a figure 303 surrounding the operation target to be enabled is drawn. Then, the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 generates an operation screen 300 in which only the operation targets to be enabled are activated.

[0134] F31: The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 updates the operation screen 300 displayed on the display unit 14a to, for example, the operation screen 300N6 shown in Fig. 18. Alternatively, the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 updates the operation screen 300 to, for example, the operation screen 300N7 shown in Fig. 19 in which only the operation targets to be enabled are activated. The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 transmits the operation screen 300N6 shown in Fig. 18 or the operation screen 300N7 shown in Fig. 19 to the server 104.

[0135] F32: The control unit 105 of the server 104 relays the operation screen 300N6 shown in FIG. 18 or the operation screen 300N7 shown in FIG.

[0136] F33: The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 updates the operation screen 300 displayed on the instruction screen 302 to an operation screen 300N6 shown in Fig. 18. Alternatively, the control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 updates the operation screen 300 displayed on the instruction screen 302 to an operation screen 300N7 shown in Fig. 19.

[0137] F34: The user operating the image forming apparatus 1 operates the enabled operation target on the operation screen 300 of the operation panel 14.

[0138] F35: Control unit 11 of image forming apparatus 1 updates operation screen 300N6 or operation screen 300N7 in response to the operation target operated on operation screen 300. Control unit 11 of image forming apparatus 1 transmits operation screen 300 updated in response to the user's operation to server 104.

[0139] F36: The control unit 105 of the server 104 relays, to the information processing device 2, the operation screen 300 updated in response to the user's operation.

[0140] F37: The control unit 21 of the information processing device 2 updates the operation screen 300 displayed on the instruction screen 302 to the operation screen 300 updated in response to an operation by the user of the image forming device 1.

[0141] The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1, the control unit 21 of the information processing apparatus 2, and the control unit 105 of the server 104 return to F23 and continue the operation until the remote operation is completed.

[0142] In FIG. 23, S31, S32 . . . indicate processing steps of the processing executed by the server 104.

[0143] S31: When the control unit 105 of the server 104 receives a connection request from the information processing device 2, the control unit 105 executes necessary processes such as authentication using the relay program 202. If the authentication is successful, the control unit 105 of the server 104 transmits a connection permission signal to the information processing device 2 and establishes a connection with the information processing device 2. Also, if the authentication is successful, the control unit 105 of the server 104 transmits a connection permission signal to the image forming device 1 and establishes a connection with the image forming device 1. This establishes a connection between the image forming device 1 and the information processing device 2 relayed through the server 104.

[0144] S32: The control unit 105 of the server 104 acquires the operation screen 300 from the image forming apparatus 1 and relays it to the information processing apparatus 2.

[0145] S33: The control unit 105 of the server 104 judges whether or not instruction information has been received from the information processing device 2.

[0146] S34: The control unit 105 of the server 104 relays the instruction information received from the information processing device 2 to the image forming device 1.

[0147] S35: The control unit 105 of the server 104 judges whether or not a signal to end the remote operation has been received from the information processing device 2.

[0148] S36: When the control unit 105 of the server 104 receives a signal from the information processing device 2 to end the remote operation, the control unit 105 releases the connection between the information processing device 2 and the image forming device 1. [Explanation of symbols]

[0149] 100 image forming system, 101 LAN, 102 WAN, 103 gateway, 104 server, 105 control unit, 106 storage unit, 107 network communication unit, 1 image forming apparatus, 11 control unit, 12 storage unit, 13 network communication unit, 14 operation panel, 14a display unit, 14b operation unit, 15 image processing unit, 16 image reading unit, 17 printer unit, 2 information processing apparatus, 21 control unit, 22 storage unit, 23 network communication unit, 24a display unit, 24b operation unit

Claims

1. a communication unit that receives instruction information from an external information processing device with which communication has been established; an operation panel having a touch panel for receiving an operation, displaying a plurality of operation targets, and having hardware keys independent of the touch panel; a control unit that enables an operation object that is instructed to be enabled by the instruction information among the plurality of operation objects and the hardware keys displayed on the operation panel based on the instruction information received from the information processing device by the communication unit, and disables operation of other operation objects; An image forming apparatus comprising:

2. The operation target includes icons and the hardware keys that are operated on the touch panel in an operation screen displayed on the operation panel. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

3. The operation target includes a list display and a pull-down display displayed on the operation panel. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

4. The control unit changes a color of the operation object to be enabled and / or surrounds the operation object to be enabled with a line so as to be distinguishable from other operation objects to be disabled, and displays the operation object on the operation panel. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

5. When the control unit receives instruction information including image data for identifying an operation target to be enabled, generated by the information processing device, from the information processing device, the control unit combines the image data with an image to be displayed on the operation panel, changes a color of the operation target to be enabled and / or surrounds the operation target to be enabled with a line, and displays the operation target on the operation panel in a manner that makes it distinguishable from other operation targets to be disabled. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

6. The control unit transmits a bitmap image of an operation screen displayed on the operation panel to the information processing device. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

7. The control unit transmits a Web script of an operation screen displayed on the operation panel to the information processing device. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

8. The control unit determines an operation target to be enabled based on coordinate information included in the instruction information. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

9. a communication unit that receives an operation screen from an image forming apparatus with which communication has been established and transmits instruction information; a display unit that displays an instruction screen including the operation screen; an operation unit that receives an operation of selecting an operation target to be enabled from the instruction screen displayed on the display unit; a control unit that generates the instruction information indicating an operation target to be enabled selected by the operation unit; An information processing device comprising:

10. The control unit combines the operation screen displayed on the image forming apparatus with image data showing a hardware key provided on the image forming apparatus and displays the combined image on the display unit. The information processing device according to claim 9.

11. The control unit selects an operation target surrounded by a line by an operation of the operation unit from the operation screen displayed on the display unit as an operation target to be enabled. The information processing device according to claim 9.

12. An image forming apparatus; an information processing device connected to the image forming apparatus via a network; The image forming apparatus includes: a communication unit that receives instruction information from the information processing device with which communication has been established; an operation panel having a touch panel for receiving an operation, displaying a plurality of operation targets, and having hardware keys independent of the touch panel; a control unit that enables an operation target that is instructed to be enabled by the instruction information among the plurality of operation targets and the hardware keys displayed on the operation panel based on the instruction information received from the information processing device by the communication unit, and disables operation of other operation targets; The information processing device includes: a communication unit that receives an operation screen from the image forming apparatus with which communication has been established and transmits instruction information; a display unit that displays an instruction screen including the operation screen; an operation unit that receives an operation of selecting an operation target to be enabled from the instruction screen displayed on the display unit; a control unit that generates the instruction information indicating an operation target to be enabled selected by the operation unit; Image forming system.

13. The information processing device establishes communication with an image forming device via a server connected to the network. The imaging system of claim 12.

14. the control unit of the image forming apparatus transmits a bitmap image of an operation screen displayed on the operation panel to the information processing apparatus; The control unit of the information processing device displays the operation screen on the display unit from the bitmap image. The imaging system of claim 12.

15. the control unit of the image forming apparatus transmits a Web script of an operation screen to be displayed on the operation panel to the information processing apparatus; The control unit of the information processing device displays the operation screen on the display unit based on the Web script. The imaging system of claim 12.

16. A program executed by a control unit of an image forming apparatus, Establishing communication with an external information processing device; receiving instruction information from the information processing device with which communication has been established; a step of enabling an operation object that is instructed to be enabled by the instruction information among a plurality of operation objects displayed on an operation panel and hardware keys provided on the operation panel based on the instruction information received from the information processing device, and disabling operation of other operation objects; The control unit executes the program.

17. A program executed by a control unit of an information processing device, Establishing communication with an image forming device; receiving an operation screen from the image forming apparatus with which communication has been established; displaying an instruction screen including the operation screen; receiving an operation for selecting an operation target to be enabled from the instruction screen; generating instruction information indicating the selected operation target to be enabled; transmitting the instruction information to the image forming device; The control unit executes the program.

18. Establishing communication with an external information processing device; receiving instruction information from the information processing device with which communication has been established; a step of enabling an operation object that is instructed to be enabled by the instruction information among a plurality of operation objects displayed on an operation panel and hardware keys provided on the operation panel based on the instruction information received from the information processing device, and disabling operation of other operation objects; A method for controlling an image forming apparatus that executes the above.

19. Establishing communication with an image forming device; receiving an operation screen from the image forming apparatus with which communication has been established; displaying an instruction screen including the operation screen; receiving an operation for selecting an operation target to be enabled from the instruction screen; generating instruction information indicating the selected operation target to be enabled; transmitting the instruction information to the image forming device; A method for controlling an information processing apparatus that executes the above.

20. An image forming apparatus; A method for controlling an image forming system including an information processing device connected to the image forming apparatus via a network, comprising: The image forming apparatus includes: Establishing communication with an external information processing device; receiving instruction information from the information processing device with which communication has been established; a step of enabling an operation object that is instructed to be enabled by the instruction information among a plurality of operation objects displayed on an operation panel and hardware keys provided on the operation panel based on the instruction information received from the information processing device, and disabling operation of other operation objects; Run The information processing device includes: Establishing communication with an image forming device; receiving an operation screen from the image forming apparatus with which communication has been established; displaying an instruction screen including the operation screen; receiving an operation for selecting an operation target to be enabled from the instruction screen; generating the instruction information indicating the selected operation target to be enabled; transmitting the instruction information to the image forming device; Run A method for controlling an image forming system.

Images