Image forming apparatus and method for controlling image forming apparatus

Abstract

To provide an image forming apparatus or the like that allows a user to reliably use setting history information related to a desired job according to a job execution method using the setting history information.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus can execute a job on the basis of a setting value and store the history of the job as a job history, and comprises: a storage unit that stores the setting value of the executed job as setting history information; a display unit that displays a selection screen for selecting the setting history information stored in the storage unit; and a control unit that reads out the setting value included in the selected history information. The control unit determines whether to display setting history information of a newly executed job on the basis of a result of comparison of the setting value related to the newly executed job with the setting value included in the setting history information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] An image forming device such as a multifunction device executes a job using a print function, a fax function, a scan function, etc. When executing a job, the image forming device acquires setting values ​​such as input values ​​by a user and initial setting values ​​specific to the device. The image forming device executes the job based on the acquired setting values, allowing the user to obtain the execution result of the job as desired.

[0003] Some image forming apparatuses generate history information that associates information about an executed job with setting values ​​related to the job. History information that includes the setting values ​​is called setting history information.

[0004] In recent years, there have been attempts to make effective use of this setting history information. In other words, by reusing setting history information related to jobs that have already been executed, the effort of inputting and changing setting values ​​and the like can be eliminated, thereby improving convenience for users.

[0005] However, when the number of generated setting history information exceeds a certain number, the information may be deleted from the storage device, or the number of items that can be displayed may be limited due to limitations on the displayable area of ​​the display device.

[0006] In this case, if the execution of a job results in the generation of duplicate setting history information having the same or partially identical setting values, a user who wants to execute a job using setting history information having different setting values ​​may find that the setting history information related to the execution is unexpectedly deleted or not displayed on the display device, and therefore cannot utilize the setting history information when executing the desired job.

[0007] Regarding the handling of duplicated historical information, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for creating a record consisting of multiple items including items relating to multiple attributes related to the application and an item relating to the time when the job was executed, comparing the attributes contained in the record created by the newly executed job with records registered in a record list, and overwriting identical records where there are no differences with the time contained in the record created by the newly executed job. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] JP 2019-123197 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] However, Patent Document 1 does not mention how to leave setting history information related to a newly executed job in accordance with the job execution method using the setting history information.

[0010] In view of the above-mentioned problems, the present application aims to provide an image forming apparatus and the like that can reliably use setting history information related to a job desired by a user, depending on the method of executing the job using the setting history information. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the image forming apparatus of the present disclosure is an image forming apparatus capable of executing a job based on setting values ​​and storing the history of the job as a job history, and is equipped with a memory unit that stores the setting values ​​of the executed job as setting history information, a display unit that displays a selection screen for selecting the setting history information stored in the memory unit, and a control unit that reads out the setting values ​​included in the selected setting history information, and is characterized in that the control unit determines whether or not to display the setting history information of the newly executed job based on a comparison result between the setting values ​​related to the newly executed job and the setting values ​​included in the setting history information.

[0012] In addition, the image forming apparatus of the present disclosure is an image forming apparatus capable of executing a job based on setting values ​​and storing the history of the job as a job history, and is equipped with a memory unit that stores the setting values ​​of the executed job as batch setting history information, a display unit that displays a selection screen for selecting the batch setting history information stored in the memory unit, and a control unit that reads out the setting values ​​included in the selected batch setting history information, and is characterized in that the control unit determines whether or not to display the setting history information of the newly executed job based on a result of comparing the setting values ​​related to the newly executed job with the setting values ​​included in the batch setting history information.

[0013] In addition, the control method disclosed herein is a control method for an image forming device that can execute a job based on setting values ​​and store the history of the job as a job history, and includes a storage process for storing the setting values ​​of the executed job as setting history information, a display process for displaying a selection screen for selecting the setting history information stored in the storage process, and a control process for reading out the setting values ​​included in the selected setting history information, wherein the control process includes a process for determining whether or not to display the setting history information of the newly executed job based on a comparison result between the setting values ​​related to the newly executed job and the setting values ​​included in the setting history information.

[0014] In addition, the control method disclosed herein is a control method for an image forming device that can execute a job based on setting values ​​and store the history of the job as a job history, and includes a storage process for storing the setting values ​​of the executed job as batch setting history information, a display process for displaying a selection screen for selecting the batch setting history information stored in the storage process, and a control process for reading out the setting values ​​included in the selected batch setting history information, wherein the control process includes a process for determining whether or not to display the setting history information of the newly executed job based on a result of comparing the setting values ​​related to the newly executed job with the setting values ​​included in the batch setting history information. Effect of the Invention

[0015] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus or the like that can reliably use setting history information related to a job desired by a user in accordance with a job execution method using the setting history information. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1] 1 is an external perspective view of a multifunction peripheral according to a first embodiment; [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of setting history information in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of job history information in the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] 5 is a flowchart illustrating a process flow of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 5 is a flowchart illustrating a process flow of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] 5 is a flowchart illustrating a process flow of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9]FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 11 is a functional configuration diagram of a multifunction peripheral according to a second embodiment. [Figure 16] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process flow of a multifunction peripheral according to a second embodiment. [Figure 17] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process flow of a multifunction peripheral according to a second embodiment. [Figure 18] 13A to 13C are diagrams illustrating an example of the operation of the multifunction peripheral according to the second embodiment. [Figure 19] 13A to 13C are diagrams illustrating an example of the operation of the multifunction peripheral according to the second embodiment. [Figure 20] 13A to 13C are diagrams illustrating an example of the operation of the multifunction peripheral according to the second embodiment. [Figure 21] 13A to 13C are diagrams illustrating an example of the operation of the multifunction peripheral according to the second embodiment. [Figure 22] 13A to 13C are diagrams illustrating an example of the operation of the multifunction peripheral according to the second embodiment. [Figure 23] 13A to 13C are diagrams illustrating an example of the operation of the multifunction peripheral according to the second embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 13 is a functional configuration diagram of a multifunction peripheral according to a third embodiment. [Diagram 25] 13 is a flowchart illustrating a process flow of a multifunction peripheral according to a third embodiment. [Figure 26] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the multifunction peripheral according to the third embodiment. [Figure 27] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the multifunction peripheral according to the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0017] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the description of the embodiment, an image forming apparatus will be described as a multifunction machine having a print function including copying, a fax function, a scan function, etc., and performing processes associated with the execution of each function on a job basis or on a multiple job basis that combines a plurality of these functions. In addition, the following embodiment is an example for describing the present disclosure, and the technical scope of the description described in the claims is not limited to the following description.

[0018] [1. First embodiment] In the first embodiment, a multifunction peripheral having a setting history information selection screen that accepts the selection of setting history information related to a job that has already been executed (already executed job) as a method for executing a new job will be described.

[0019] [1.1 Functional configuration] The functional configuration of a multifunction device 10 according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1 and Fig. 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.

[0020] The multifunction device 10 has a copy function that forms an image on paper as a recording medium from image data generated by the scan function, and a print function that forms an image on paper based on image data acquired from an external terminal device, a portable storage medium, etc. (The copy function and print function are collectively referred to as the print function.) The multifunction device 10 also has a fax function that transmits and receives faxes via a public telephone network, a temporary data storage function that temporarily stores received fax data, etc.

[0021] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the multifunction device 10 includes a control unit 11, a display unit 13, an operation unit 15, a communication unit 17, an image forming unit 19, an image reading unit 21, a memory unit 23, a paper feeding unit 25, and a paper discharge unit 27.

[0022] The control unit 11 controls the entire 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 a job execution program 231, a setting history information processing program 233, a setting value comparison judgment program 235, and the like stored in the storage unit 23.

[0023] The display unit 13 displays various information to the user. The display unit 13 can be configured, for example, by an LCD (Liquid crystal display) or an organic EL (Electro-luminescence) display.

[0024] The operation unit 15 accepts input of information such as setting values ​​by the user. The operation unit 15 can be configured with hard keys (e.g., a numeric keypad), buttons, etc. The operation unit 15 can also be configured as a touch panel that allows input via the display unit 13. In this case, the input detection method of the touch panel can be, for example, a resistive film method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, or a capacitance method.

[0025] The communication unit 17 connects to other devices via a network (NW) such as a LAN (Local area network), a WAN (Wide area network), the Internet, or a public telephone line network, and transmits and receives various information such as image data, fax data, etc. The communication unit 17 is configured, for example, as an interface capable of communication, and can adopt either a wired or wireless connection method, or both.

[0026] The image forming unit 19 forms an image on paper based on image data. The image forming unit 19 feeds paper from a paper feed unit 25, forms an image on the paper based on image data, and then discharges the paper to a paper discharge unit 27. The image forming unit 19 can be configured with a laser printer or the like that uses an electrophotographic method. The image forming unit 19 forms an image using toner supplied from a toner cartridge corresponding to the toner color (for example, yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), black (K)).

[0027] The image reading unit 21 generates image data by reading an image of a reading target. The image reading unit 21 can be configured with a scanner device or the like that converts an image into an electrical signal using an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CIS (Contact Image Sensor) and generates digital data by quantizing and encoding the electrical signal.

[0028] The paper feed unit 25 has a box-shaped member (tray) for storing a stack of multiple sheets of paper. The tray can store paper of various sizes and thicknesses depending on the application. The paper feed unit 25 can be composed of multiple trays that each store paper of different sizes, such as A4 size, B5 size, and A3 size.

[0029] The storage unit 23 stores various programs and various data necessary for the operation of the multifunction device 10. The storage unit 23 can be configured, for example, with a volatile memory such as a random access memory (RAM), a solid state device (SSD) which is a semiconductor memory, a hard disk drive (HDD), a read only memory (ROM), or other non-volatile memory.

[0030] In the first embodiment, the storage unit 23 stores a job execution program 231, a setting history information processing program 233, and a setting value comparison determination program 235, and reserves a setting value storage area 237, a setting history information storage area 239, and a job history information storage area 241.

[0031] The job execution program 231 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 in order to perform processing associated with the execution of a print function, a fax communication function, a scan function, etc., on a job-by-job basis. By reading the job execution program 231, the control unit 11 controls each unit involved in the execution of the job.

[0032] The setting history information processing program 233 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 when, for example, obtaining setting values ​​related to job execution, generating setting history information, processing the setting history information, instructing the display unit 13 to display a setting history information selection screen, generating job history information, etc.

[0033] The setting value comparison judgment program 235 is a program that the control unit 11 reads out when performing a comparison judgment process between the setting values ​​acquired by executing a new job and the setting values ​​related to previously executed jobs and included in the setting history information.

[0034] The setting value storage area 237 is a storage area for storing various setting values ​​related to the execution of a job. The setting values ​​according to the first embodiment include setting values ​​set by a user when executing each job, device initial values ​​held by the device itself, and the like.

[0035] The setting values ​​may be values ​​directly input by the user via the operation unit 15 or a touch panel displayed on the display unit 13. In addition, when the multifunction device 10 is connected to an external terminal device (not shown) via the communication unit 17, the control unit 11 can also acquire setting values ​​input via a control program such as a printer driver installed in the external terminal device. The control unit 11 stores the acquired setting values ​​in the setting value storage area 237.

[0036] The setting history information storage area 239 is a storage area for storing the setting history information in a data table format. The setting history information according to the first embodiment is information consisting of a combination of some or all of the setting values ​​stored in the setting value storage area 237 and history information related to the execution of a job such as a job function, an execution user name, and an execution date and time, to which an ID (job ID) for uniquely identifying the information is assigned.

[0037] Here, each item of the setting history information according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 shows an example of a configuration in which the setting history information is stored in a data table format. Here, the job ID is an ID that uniquely identifies the setting history information corresponding to a job. The function means a job function such as a print function, a fax function, or a scan function. The user name is the name of the user who executed the job. The document name is character information for identifying a document arbitrarily set by a user or the like. The number of pages / number of sets is the number of pages or the number of sets of the document provided for the job. The start date / end date / time is the start date / time and end date / time of execution of the job.

[0038] A priority display identifier is an identifier (e.g., a star (★) or text information such as "Saved") that the user himself / herself assigns to setting history information on which the user has focused (e.g., setting history information with a specific setting history that the user wishes to mark and display preferentially).

[0039] The setting values ​​are the setting values ​​stored in the setting value storage area 237. Any setting value can be selected as the setting value included in the setting history information, so long as it is a setting value stored in the setting value storage area 237. The setting values ​​shown in Fig. 3 are examples of setting values ​​arbitrarily selected from a setting value that is likely to be changed frequently by the user and a setting value that is not likely to be changed very frequently but that is likely to prevent the desired job execution result from being obtained unless the fact that it has been changed is known.

[0040] For example, in the setting history information for the print job with job ID "#025," the left column of settings shows setting items such as "color mode," "paper size," "original size," "paper type," "number of copies," "zoom function," "zoom magnification," "copy density," and "paper tray." These setting items are examples of setting items that are likely to be changed frequently by users.

[0041] On the other hand, the right column of setting value items shows setting value items such as "Double-sided printing", "N-Up printing", "Fit page", "Finishing function", "Data correction function", "Color mode adjustment function", "Text / image composition function", "Special printing function", etc. Although these setting value items are not changed very frequently, they are examples of setting value items that the user may select without knowing that they have been changed, and which may not produce the desired job execution results.

[0042] As described above, any setting value stored in the setting value storage area 237 can be selected as the setting value included in the setting history information. However, in order to enable comparison and determination of the setting values, the setting value related to the new execution job and the setting value included in the setting history information related to the already executed jobs use the same setting value.

[0043] Returning to FIG. 2 again, the job history information storage area 241 is a storage area that stores job history information in the data table format shown in FIG. 4. The job history information according to the first embodiment is job execution record information including the job ID, function, user name, document name, number of pages / number of sets, start date / end date / time, and status. The control unit 11 displays items included in the generated job history information on the display unit 13 as job history. Note that the job history information according to the first embodiment may be generated after a job is executed, or it can also be generated by extracting items required for generating the job history information from the items of the setting history information after the setting history information is generated.

[0044] [1.2 Processing flow] Next, the flow of processing according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0045] First, a basic flow of generating setting history information accompanying job execution will be described with reference to Fig. 5. The control unit 11 reads out the job execution program 231 and the setting history information processing program 233 to execute this processing.

[0046] The process described in Fig. 5 is an example of a process when a print job, a fax job, or a scan job is performed via a dedicated setting screen (not shown). The setting history information obtained in the process in Fig. 5 is used to select setting history information via a setting history information selection screen described in Fig. 8, and to compare and determine the setting values ​​for a newly executed job.

[0047] In the description of the process in FIG. 5, the setting history information is generated after the job history information is generated, but the order in which the job history information and the setting history information are generated may be reversed.

[0048] When a user inputs or changes a setting value related to job execution such as a print job, fax job, or scan job via a dedicated setting screen or the like, the control unit 11 acquires the setting value related to the job execution (step S10 to step S20). The control unit 11 stores the acquired setting value in the setting value storage area 237. Note that, when a setting value is not input by the user, the control unit 11 may acquire an initial value specific to the device as the setting value.

[0049] In step S30, the control unit 11 receives a press of a start button (not shown) on the operation unit 15 or the display unit 13, and receives a job execution instruction input.

[0050] In step S40, the control unit 11 executes a print job, a fax job, a scan job, or the like, based on the setting values ​​acquired in step S20.

[0051] In step S50, the control unit 11 generates job history information (see FIG. 4) related to the executed job. Next, in step S60, the control unit 11 stores the generated job history information in the job history information storage area 241. The job history information stored in the job history information storage area 241 can be used for displaying the job history, etc.

[0052] In step S70, the control unit 11 reads out setting values ​​related to the executed job from the setting value storage area 237. The control unit 11 generates setting history information by assigning an ID for uniquely identifying information consisting of a combination of the read setting values ​​and history information related to the execution of the job, such as the job function, the executing user name, and the execution date and time (see FIG. 3). Next, in step S80, the control unit 11 stores the generated setting history information in the setting history information storage area 239. The setting history information stored in the setting history information storage area 239 can be used to select setting history information via a setting history information selection screen, which will be described in the next figure.

[0053] Next, the process after execution of a job based on the setting history information accepted via the setting history information selection screen will be described with reference to the flowchart of Fig. 6. Note that the same processes as those in Fig. 5 are denoted by the same step numbers.

[0054] The control unit 11 executes this process by reading out the job execution program 231, the setting history information processing program 233, and the setting value comparison judgment program 235.

[0055] In step S90, the control unit 11 reads out the setting history information from the setting history information storage area 239, and displays it on the screen of the display unit 13. Here, the setting history information read out from the setting history information storage area 239 includes the setting history information stored in step S80 in Fig. 5 and the setting history information previously generated in the processing related to this figure.

[0056] There is no particular limit to the number of pieces of setting history information that the control unit 11 reads out from the setting history information storage area 239. The number of pieces of setting history information to be displayed can be set and changed as appropriate according to the displayable area of ​​the display unit 13. Also, the setting history information displayed on the screen can be displayed in chronological order, for example, starting with the most recent job execution order, allowing the user to grasp the job execution history as well.

[0057] In step S100, the user selects desired setting history information as setting history information related to an executed job.

[0058] When the user selects setting history information, the control unit 11 displays the setting values ​​included in the setting history information on the screen.

[0059] When a user inputs or changes a setting value related to the execution of a job such as a print job, a fax job, or a scan job, the control unit 11 acquires the setting value related to the job execution (step S10 to step S20). The control unit 11 stores the acquired setting value in the setting value storage area 237.

[0060] In step S30, the control unit 11 receives a press of a start button (not shown) on the operation unit 15 or the display unit 13, and receives a job execution instruction input.

[0061] In step S40, the control unit 11 executes a job such as a print job, a fax job, or a scan job as a new job based on the setting values ​​acquired in step S20.

[0062] Next, in step S110, the control unit 11 performs a set value comparison process.

[0063] If the result of the setting value comparison process is that the setting value for the newly executed job is identical to the setting value for the setting history information of the already executed job selected in step S100 (step S120; Yes), the control unit 11 determines whether the executing user for the newly executed job is the same as the executing user for the setting history information of the already executed job.

[0064] When the control unit 11 determines that the executing user for the newly executed job is the same as the executing user for the already executed job (step S130; Yes), it performs a display process for the setting history information (step S140).

[0065] In addition, the "display process, etc." in this disclosure means an action of generating and storing one of the setting history information having overlapping setting values, an action of doing nothing (neither generating nor storing the setting history information), an action of not displaying, etc., and also includes deletion from the setting history information storage area 239. For example, when the user related to the job execution is the same user (when step S130 is Yes), the control unit 11 can not generate setting history information related to the newly executed job, and can not store it in the setting history information storage area 239. Furthermore, the control unit 11 can not display the setting history information related to the newly executed job on the screen, but can consolidate the setting history information by, for example, updating the execution date and time of the setting history information related to the already executed job to the execution date and time of the newly executed job, and storing and displaying it (hereinafter, this process may be referred to as consolidation process).

[0066] However, if the setting values ​​for the newly executed job are not identical to the setting values ​​for the setting history information of the already executed job (step S120; No), that is, if the setting values ​​for the setting history information of the already executed job have been changed, or if the setting values ​​for the newly executed job are identical to the setting values ​​for the setting history information of the already executed job (step S120; Yes) but the executing user is not the same (step S130; No), the control unit 11 generates and stores setting history information for the newly executed job (step S70 → step S80).

[0067] Then, the control unit 11 returns the process to step S90.

[0068] Next, the setting value comparison judgment process in step S110 in Fig. 6 will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Here, judgment parameters used in the comparison judgment process will be described.

[0069] [About the judgment parameters in the comparison judgment process] In the first embodiment, a comparison judgment process is performed by roughly dividing the setting values ​​to be compared into two groups, a first setting value and a second setting value. Here, the first setting value is assumed to be a setting value that is likely to be changed by the user frequently, and the second setting value is assumed to be a setting value that is not likely to be changed frequently, but for which the desired job execution result cannot be obtained unless the fact that it has been changed is known.

[0070] Since the second setting value is assumed not to be changed very frequently by the user, the second setting value for the newly executed job and the second setting value in the setting history information for the already executed job are likely to be the same. Therefore, if even one setting value included in the second setting value is different between the setting values, the control unit 11 determines that the setting value for the newly executed job and the setting value in the setting history information for the already executed job are not the same.

[0071] On the other hand, unlike the second setting value, the first setting value is a setting value that is assumed to be changed frequently by the user, so there is a high probability that the first setting value related to the newly executed job and the first setting value in the setting history information related to the already executed job are not identical. However, if the control unit 11 is configured to determine that the setting value related to the newly executed job and the setting value in the setting history information related to the already executed job are not identical when even one setting value included in the first setting value is different between the setting values, this may conversely reduce convenience. Therefore, in the first embodiment, if the first setting value is the same between the setting values ​​for a specified number or more, it is determined that the setting values ​​are the same. Note that the specified number can be set to any specified number via a specified setting screen.

[0072] In addition, by setting a comparison period for comparing the setting values ​​related to the newly executed job with the setting values ​​of the setting history information related to the already executed job, i.e., a judgment period for judging whether the already executed job being compared was executed within a specified period of time from the execution of the new job, it is possible to determine whether setting history information including the setting values ​​related to the newly executed job existed in the past.

[0073] Using the above-mentioned judgment parameters, the control unit 11 executes a set value comparison judgment process (see FIG. 7).

[0074] When the process starts, the control unit 11 compares the setting values ​​related to the newly executed job with the setting values ​​related to the setting history information of the already executed jobs.

[0075] First, the control unit 11 compares the setting values ​​included in the second setting values. The second setting values ​​are setting values ​​that are assumed not to be changed very frequently by the user. In the first embodiment, for example, setting values ​​such as "double-sided printing", "N-Up printing", "fit page", "finishing function", "data correction function", "color mode adjustment function", "text / image composition function", and "special printing function" correspond to the second setting values.

[0076] If the second setting values ​​are the same (step S150; Yes), the control unit 11 compares the setting values ​​included in the first setting values. In the first embodiment, the setting values ​​of "color mode", "paper size", "original size", "number of copies", "zoom function", "paper tray", "output tray", "paper feeding method", etc. correspond to the first setting values. If the first setting values ​​are the same for a specified number or more of settings (step S160; Yes), the control unit 11 determines whether the already-executed job to be compared was executed within a specified period of time from the execution of the new job.

[0077] If the previously executed job to be compared was executed within a specified period of time from the execution of the new job (step S170; Yes), the control unit 11 determines that the setting values ​​related to the newly executed job are identical to the setting values ​​related to the setting history information of the previously executed job (step S180).

[0078] On the other hand, if the second setting values ​​are not the same (step S150; No), the control unit 11 determines that the setting values ​​related to the newly executed job and the setting values ​​related to the setting history information of the already executed job are not the same. Also, if the second setting values ​​are the same (step S150; Yes) but the first setting values ​​are not the same for a specified number of times or more between the setting values ​​(step S160; No), and if the already executed job to be compared was not executed within a predetermined period from the execution of the new job (step S170; No), the control unit 11 determines that the setting values ​​related to the newly executed job and the setting values ​​related to the setting history information of the already executed job are not the same (step S190).

[0079] In this way, by classifying the setting values ​​to be compared into a plurality of groups and performing a comparison judgment of the setting values ​​for each group, it becomes unnecessary to compare all the setting values. Of course, the present disclosure does not deny the aspect of configuring the setting values ​​to be compared into a single group. Depending on the job function, there may be a small number of setting values ​​to be compared. In this case, it is also possible to configure the setting values ​​to be compared into a single group.

[0080] [1.3 Example of operation] Next, an example of the operation of the multifunction device 10 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 8 to 14. This operation corresponds to the process relating to step S90 in Figure 6 to step S190 in Figure 7.

[0081] A display screen W10 shown in Fig. 8 is one example of a configuration of a setting history information selection screen. The display screen W10 includes setting history information display areas R11 to R17, a job execution button B11, and a cancel button B13. The setting history information display areas R11 to R17 are configured by arranging the setting history information in chronological order from the most recent job execution order, or in the order of processing results by the control unit 11. The example shown in Fig. 8 is an example in which four rows of setting history information are arranged in parallel. Note that the number of rows of setting history information to be arranged in parallel is not limited to four, and can be set appropriately depending on the displayable area of ​​the display unit 13.

[0082] The information displayed in the setting history information display areas R11 to R17 is information read by the control unit 11 from the setting history information stored in the setting history information storage area 239. The configuration example shown in the setting history information display areas R11 to R17 includes a job ID, a job execution date and time, an execution user name, and a setting value.

[0083] The setting history information display area R11 will be described as an example. The job ID corresponds to the executed job and is an identifier for uniquely identifying the setting history information. The job ID according to this embodiment is assigned one of the alphabetical characters (print function: P, fax function: F, scan function: S) representing each job function so that the user can distinguish the job function at a glance. For example, the job ID "#025_P" indicates that it is the 25th job executed and is a job related to the print function. The job execution date and time (2019 / 12 / 4 10:30:50) indicates the date and time of job execution. The execution user name (Uesr:TT) is the name of the user who executed the job.

[0084] The setting values ​​are at least a part of the setting values ​​included in the setting history information. The setting value items displayed in the setting history information display area can be appropriately changed depending on the degree of attention of the user.

[0085] In the display example of the setting history information display area R11, as an example of the display of setting values, the setting value item: color mode setting value “full color”, the setting value item: paper size setting value “A4”, and the setting value item: paper type setting value “plain paper” are displayed.

[0086] The job ID "#024_P" in the setting history information display area R13 indicates that the 24th job executed is a print job related to the print function, the job ID "#023_P" in the setting history information display area R15 indicates that the 23rd job executed is a print job related to the print function, and the job ID "#022_S" in the setting history information display area R17 indicates that the 22nd job executed is a scan job related to the scan function.

[0087] The display screen W10 shown in Figure 8 is an example of setting history information for the 25th print job at 10:30:50 on December 4, 2019, the 24th print job at 10:15:30 on December 4, 2019, the 23rd print job at 9:30:00 on December 4, 2019, and the 22nd scan job at 7:30:50 on December 4, 2019, arranged in chronological order.

[0088] The job execution button B11 is a button that accepts input of an instruction to execute a job related to the setting history information selected by the user. For example, the user executes a job related to the selected setting history information by checking as shown in the setting history information display area R11 and pressing the job execution button B11. In response to pressing of the job execution button B11, the control unit 11 executes the process of step S40 in FIG. 6, etc., to execute the desired job.

[0089] The cancel button B13 is a button for accepting cancellation of input by the user.

[0090] Next, a description will be given of the setting screen W20 displayed by the control unit 11 in response to pressing the job execution button B11. The setting screen W20 is an example of a setting screen that displays the setting values ​​included in the setting history information to the user and accepts input or changes to the setting values.

[0091] The setting screen W20 includes job function tabs T11 to T15, a setting value input / change area R19, a setting history information display area R21, a comparison setting value setting button B15, an OK button B17, and a cancel button B19.

[0092] The job function tabs T11 to T15 are tabs that allow switching between setting screens provided for each job function. The setting screen W20 has a print tab T11, a scan tab T13, and a fax tab T15. In the configuration example in Fig. 9, the print tab T11 is shown selected.

[0093] The setting value input / change area R19 is an area for accepting input / change of setting values ​​related to job execution. When the user selects desired setting history information via the display screen W10 in Fig. 8 and presses the job execution button B11, the control unit 11 reflects and displays the contents of the setting values ​​related to the selected setting history information in the setting value input / change area R19.

[0094] The user can understand the setting values ​​related to the job execution by checking the setting values ​​of the setting history information displayed in the setting value input / change area R19. For example, FIG. 9 shows a state in which the setting history information related to the job ID "#025_P" is selected and the setting value contents of the setting history information are displayed. Specifically, in this example, the setting value item: color mode setting value "full color", the setting value item: number of copies setting value "100 copies", the setting value item: paper (original) size setting value "A4 (automatic)", the setting value item: paper type setting value "plain paper (automatic, A4)", the setting value item: copy density setting value "automatic", and the setting value item: zoom magnification setting value "100%" are displayed as the setting values.

[0095] Other setting values ​​(for example, double-sided printing, N-Up printing, fit pages, finishing functions, etc.) can be displayed by pressing the "Special Functions" button in the setting value input / change area R19.

[0096] The setting history information display area R21 is an area that reflects and displays the setting history information displayed on the display screen W10 of Fig. 8. Here, the area is displayed in a darkened state so that it can be easily understood that the setting history information related to the job ID "#025_P" has been selected by the user.

[0097] The comparison set value setting button B15 accepts input for confirming or changing the set value related to the set value comparison judgment. When the comparison set value setting button B15 is pressed, the control unit 11 displays a comparison set value setting screen W30 as shown in FIG.

[0098] The OK button B17 is a button for accepting input approval by the user.The Cancel button B19 is a button for accepting input cancellation by the user.

[0099] Next, the comparison set value setting screen W30 displayed by the control unit 11 in response to pressing of the comparison set value setting button B15 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0100] The comparison setting value setting screen W30 according to the first embodiment is a screen for accepting selection and confirmation of setting values ​​used for comparing setting values ​​related to a newly executed job with setting values ​​related to setting history information of already executed jobs.

[0101] The comparison set value setting screen W30 includes a first set value input tab T17, a second set value input tab T19, a display setting tab T21, a specified set value number etc. display area R23, an OK button B21, and a cancel button B23.

[0102] FIG. 10(a) is an example of the configuration of the first setting value input tab T17. The first setting value input tab T17 includes setting values ​​that are considered to be frequently changed by the user. Therefore, it is preferable that the first setting value input tab T17 is configured as a basic operation for the user's selection operation, such as not selecting a setting value that the user does not need to know. In addition, in order to encourage the user's selection operation, it is preferable that the first setting value input tab T17 is configured as the first display screen that catches the user's eye first when a screen display command for the comparison setting value setting screen W30 is input.

[0103] FIG. 10(b) is a configuration example of the second setting value input tab T19. The second setting value input tab T19 includes setting values ​​that are not changed very frequently, but that are considered to prevent the user from obtaining the desired job execution result unless the user is aware of the fact that they have been changed. Since the second setting value input tab T19 is changed by the user infrequently, it is also possible to display all setting values ​​to be displayed in a pre-selected state (initial setting values), as illustrated in FIG. 10(b), for example. In this case, for setting values ​​that the user does not need to understand, the user can cancel the selection by unchecking them. For this reason, it is preferable to configure the second setting value input tab T19 as a second display screen with a lower display priority than the first setting value input tab T17.

[0104] 10(c) is a configuration example of the display setting tab T21. The display setting tab T21 accepts a display format of the setting history information after the display process by the control unit 11 (see step S140 in FIG. 6). The display setting tab T21 according to the first embodiment includes a check box R25a for not displaying identical setting history information (same user), a check box R25b for displaying identical setting history information (including non-identical users), and a check box R25c for displaying differential setting history information.

[0105] The hide identical setting history information (same user) check box R25a is a check box that accepts the display format of the setting history information compiled and processed by the control unit 11 when the setting values ​​received via the first setting value input tab T17 and the second setting value input tab T19 are identical between the setting history information and the user related to the execution job is the same as the user related to the already executed job. Note that the display example 1 check box, display example 2 check box, and display example 3 check box are check boxes that accept the designation of a specific display example of the setting history information.

[0106] The display of identical setting history information (including non-identical users) check box R25b is a check box that accepts the display format of the setting history information to be displayed by the control unit 11 when the setting values ​​received via the first setting value input tab T17 and the second setting value input tab T19 are identical between the setting history information and the user related to the executed job is different from the user related to the previously executed job.

[0107] The differential setting history information display checkbox R25c is a checkbox that accepts the display format of the setting history information to be displayed by the control unit 11 when the setting values ​​received via the first setting value input tab T17 and the second setting value input tab T19 differ between the setting history information. Note that the display example 1 checkbox, the display example 2 checkbox, and the display example 3 checkbox are checkboxes that accept the designation of a specific display example of the differential setting history information.

[0108] The default number of setting values ​​display area R23 includes a default number of setting values ​​designation area and a comparison period designation area. The default number of setting values ​​designation area is an area for receiving input of the allowable number of setting values ​​that are considered to be the same even if the first setting values ​​are different between the setting values ​​related to a newly executed job and the setting values ​​in the setting history information related to an executed job in the setting value comparison determination process. In the example shown in FIG. 10(a), if five or more of the nine first setting values ​​are the same, the first setting values ​​are set to be the same.

[0109] The comparison period designation area is an area for receiving input of a determination period for determining whether or not the already executed job to be compared was executed within a predetermined period from the execution of the new job.

[0110] The OK button B21 is a button for accepting input approval by the user.The Cancel button B23 is a button for accepting input cancellation by the user.

[0111] Fig. 11 is a configuration example of a display result when the check box R25a for not displaying the same setting history information (same user) and the accompanying check box for display example 1 in Fig. 10 are checked. Note that this operation is an example of the process related to steps S120 to S140 in Fig. 6.

[0112] Here, the display screen W40 in the left diagram (a) of Fig. 11 is the same as the display screen W10 in Fig. 8, and is a display example in the case where no processing is performed by the control unit 11. The display screen W50 in the right diagram (b) is a display example of setting history information after the control unit 11 has performed a consolidation process of the same setting history information.

[0113] When the comparison determination process according to the first embodiment is not executed, the setting history information relating to job execution is generated as setting history information relating to job ID "#025_P" as shown in the left diagram (a). Then, the setting history information, with the setting history information relating to job ID "#025_P" being the latest setting history information, is arranged in chronological order (setting history information display areas R27 to R33).

[0114] In contrast, when the comparison judgment process of this embodiment is executed, the control unit 11 performs a comparison judgment between the setting values ​​of job ID “#025_P” as a newly executed job and the setting values ​​included in the setting history information of job ID “#024_P” as a previously executed job.

[0115] The setting values ​​associated with job ID "#025_P" and the setting values ​​associated with job ID "#024_P" are substantially identical. Furthermore, the executing user is also the same, with the user name: TT. Therefore, control unit 11 determines that the setting values ​​associated with job ID "#025_P" and the setting values ​​included in the setting history information for job ID "#024_P" are identical. In this case, control unit 11 does not generate setting history information associated with job ID "#025_P".

[0116] Then, the control unit 11 executes a consolidation process in which the execution date and time of the job ID "#024_P" is updated to the execution date and time of the job ID "#025_P" and stored (setting history information display area R35).

[0117] On the other hand, the setting history information relating to the job ID "#023_P" displayed in the setting history information display area R31 and the setting history information relating to the job ID "#022_S" displayed in the setting history information display area R33 are displayed as they are in the setting history information display area R37 and the setting history information display area R39, as shown in the right figure (b).

[0118] As a display example of the consolidation process, it is also possible to display, for example, the example shown in FIG. 12, in addition to the example shown in FIG.

[0119] FIG. 12(a) shows an example of the configuration of the display screen W60 when the check box R25a for not displaying the same setting history information (same user) and the associated display example 2 check box in FIG. 10(c) are checked.

[0120] FIG. 12A shows an example in which a hexagonal mark is added to the setting history information display region R41 for job ID "#024_P" to indicate that the setting history information has been subjected to the consolidation process.

[0121] FIG. 12B shows an example of the configuration of the display screen W70 when the check box R25a for not displaying the same setting history information (same user) and the associated display example 3 check box in FIG. 10C are checked.

[0122] Fig. 12(b) shows an example in which a graphic representing a display area suggesting the presence of other setting history information is added to the setting history information display area R43 related to job ID "#024_P" as the setting history information that has been consolidated. As shown in Fig. 12, by devising a display configuration that allows the user to grasp at a glance the fact that the consolidation process of the setting history information has been performed, the user can easily grasp this fact.

[0123] On the other hand, FIG. 13(b) is an example of the display screen W90 when the check box R25b for displaying identical setting history information (including non-identical users) in FIG. 10(c) is checked.

[0124] Here, the example of the display screen W80 shown in the left diagram (a) of Fig. 13 is partially different from the example shown in the display screen W10 of Fig. 7. The already executed job (job ID "#024_P") is a job executed by an execution user with the initials JK, while the newly executed job (job ID "#025_P") is a job executed by an execution user with the initials TT.

[0125] When the check box R25b for displaying identical setting history information (including non-identical users) in FIG. 10(c) is checked, the control unit 11 will not perform the process of consolidating the setting history information if the executing users do not match, even if the setting values ​​for the newly executed job and the setting values ​​for the already executed jobs are identical.

[0126] The control unit 11 displays the setting history information that is the same as the setting history information display areas R45 to R51 shown on the display screen W80 in FIG. 13(a) (no processing is changed) in the chronological order of job execution starting with the most recent as the display screen W90 shown in FIG. 13(b).

[0127] Next, display screen W100 in Fig. 14(a) is an example of a configuration of a difference display result of setting history information displayed by control unit 11 when difference setting history information display checkbox R25c in Fig. 10(c) and the associated display example 1 checkbox are checked. Display screen W110 in Fig. 14(b) is an example when the display example 2 checkbox is checked, and display screen W120 in Fig. 14(c) is an example when the display example 3 checkbox is checked.

[0128] In addition, FIG. 14 illustrates an example in which a job with job ID “#028_P” is first executed by an executing user with the initials TT, then job ID “#029_P” is executed by the executing user with the initials TT, and finally job ID “#030_P” is executed by the same executing user with the initials TT.

[0129] In addition, it is assumed that the executing user with the initials TT modified some of the setting history information related to the job ID "#028_P" and executed job ID "#029_P", and further modified some of the setting history information related to job ID "#029_P" and executed the job related to job ID "#030_P".

[0130] First, the executing user of the initial TT executes a print job for job ID “#028_P” with the settings of the color mode to “full color”, the paper size to “A4”, and the paper type to “plain paper” based on the setting history information displayed in the setting history information display area R57.

[0131] Next, the executing user of Initial TT refers to the setting history information displayed in the setting history information display area R57, changes the setting value of the setting value item: color mode to “black and white”, sets the setting value item: paper size to “A4”, and sets the setting value item: paper type to “plain paper”, and executes the print job associated with job ID “#029_P”.

[0132] Finally, the user executing the initial TT refers to the setting history information displayed in the setting history information display area R55, changes the setting values ​​of the setting value item: color mode to “black and white”, the setting value item: paper size to “B4”, and executes a print job with the setting value item: paper type to “plain paper”, and the setting value item: number of copies to 100 (setting history information display area R53).

[0133] When such a job execution history is available, the control unit 11 displays the difference points in the setting history information so that the difference (change points) in the setting values ​​at each job execution stage can be clearly seen.

[0134] In this case, for example, to make it easier to understand the difference in setting history information, a solid or dotted line can be used to separate setting history information display area R59, which displays the setting history information (job ID "#027_S") up to the point immediately before the difference occurred, from setting history information display area R57, which displays the setting history information where the difference occurred (job ID "#028_P") (Figure 14(a)), or the display color of setting history information display area R61, which displays the setting history information (job ID "#027_S") immediately before the difference occurred, can be a color scheme different from the others (Figure 14(b)).

[0135] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 14(c), in order to make it easier to understand the change history of the setting history information, the setting history information related to the changes (setting history information display areas R63 to R67) may be arranged in a hierarchical manner, for example, to remind the user that the setting history updates (changes) were made in chronological order.

[0136] As described above, according to the first embodiment, when a new job is executed based on the setting history information related to a previously executed job selected via the setting history information selection screen, the display format of the setting history information related to the new job is determined based on the result of determining whether or not the setting values ​​related to the execution of the job are identical to the setting values ​​related to the setting history information of the previously executed job, so that the user can reliably use the setting history information related to the desired job.

[0137] [2. Second embodiment] Next, a second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that a job is executed using a registered job program, rather than selecting setting history information via a setting history information selection screen. In the description of the second embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for the same functional units and processes as those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0138] [2.1 Functional configuration] 15 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the multifunction device 30 according to the second embodiment. The multifunction device 30 according to the second embodiment includes a storage unit 33 instead of the storage unit 23 of the multifunction device 10.

[0139] In the second embodiment, the memory unit 33 stores a job execution program 231, a setting history information processing program 233, a setting value comparison determination program 235, and a job registration program 331, and reserves a setting value memory area 237, a setting history information memory area 239, and a job history information memory area 241.

[0140] The job registration program 331 is a program that registers a series of processes related to a job as a job program, or that the control unit 11 reads out when calling or deleting a registered job program. In this disclosure, a series of processes related to a job registered as a program is referred to as a job program.

[0141] [2.2 Processing flow] Next, a processing flow according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0142] The control unit 11 executes this process by reading out the job execution program 231, the setting history information processing program 233, the setting value comparison judgment program 235, and the job registration program 331. In this process, the same processes as those described in the first embodiment are denoted by the same step numbers.

[0143] First, in step S200, the control unit 11 accepts an input of an instruction to start the job registration program 331 via the display unit 13 or the operation unit 15.

[0144] Next, in step S210, the control unit 11 reads out the job registration program 331 and displays a job program calling screen on the display unit 13.

[0145] In step S220, the control unit 11 accepts the selection of a job program by the user, and then displays a setting screen for displaying to the user setting values ​​related to the setting history information held by the selected job program.

[0146] When a user inputs or changes a setting value related to the execution of a job such as a print job, a fax job, or a scan job via the setting screen, the control unit 11 acquires the setting value related to the job execution (step S10 to step S20). The control unit 11 stores the acquired setting value in the setting value storage area 237.

[0147] In step S30, the control unit 11 receives a press of a start button (not shown) on the operation unit 15 or the display unit 13, and receives a job execution instruction input.

[0148] In step S40, the control unit 11 executes a print job, a fax job, a scan job, or the like, based on the setting values ​​acquired in step S20.

[0149] Next, in step S110, the control unit 11 performs a setting value comparison process. Note that in this step, the same user determination process described in step S130 of FIG. 6 may be further added.

[0150] If the result of the setting value comparison judgment process is that the setting value related to job execution has been changed (step S230; Yes), the control unit 11 generates job history information for the newly executed job (step S50) and stores it in the job history information memory area 241 (step S60).

[0151] Next, the control unit 11 generates a job history based on the job history information stored in the job history information storage area 241. The control unit 11 displays the generated job history on the display unit 13 (step S240). In this case, the control unit 11 displays the difference in the setting values ​​(the changed setting values) as an item to be displayed in the job history. For example, if only the number of copies to be printed is changed in a job program related to a print job, the control unit 11 displays the job program name and the number of copies to be printed. By displaying the job program name and the difference in the setting values ​​as the job history, the user can easily understand the executed job program and the changed setting values.

[0152] Next, in step S70, the control unit 11 reads out setting values ​​related to the executed job from the setting value storage area 237. The control unit 11 generates setting history information by assigning an ID for uniquely identifying information to information consisting of a combination of the read setting values ​​and history information related to the execution of the job, such as the job function, the executing user name, and the execution date and time. Next, in step S80, the control unit 11 stores the generated setting history information in the setting history information storage area 239.

[0153] On the other hand, if the result of the setting value comparison process indicates that the setting value related to the job execution has not been changed (step S230; No), the control unit 11 generates job history information related to the executed job (step S50). Next, in step S60, the control unit 11 stores the generated job history information in the job history information storage area 241.

[0154] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether or not to display the job history on the display unit 13 (step S250). Note that the control unit 11 determines whether or not to display the job history based on the setting contents preset by the user.

[0155] When it is determined that the job history is to be displayed (step S250; Yes), the control unit 11 generates a job history based on the job history information stored in the job history information storage area 241. The control unit 11 displays the generated job history on the display unit 13 (step S240). In this case, the control unit 11 displays the job program name and the execution user name as items to be displayed in the job history. By displaying the job program name and the execution user name as the job history, a user viewing the job history can easily understand the job program that was executed and the execution user who executed the job program.

[0156] On the other hand, when it is determined that the job history is not to be displayed (step S250; No), the control unit 11 determines whether or not to generate setting history information (step S260). Note that the control unit 11 determines whether or not to generate setting history information based on the setting contents preset by the user.

[0157] When it is determined that the setting history information is to be generated (step S260; Yes), the control unit 11 generates the setting history information in step S70. Next, the control unit 11 stores the generated setting history information in the setting history information storage area 239 (step S80), and ends the process (step S80).

[0158] Even if it is initially determined that the job history should not be displayed (step S250; No), if it is determined that the setting history information should be generated (step S260; Yes), the control unit 11 can display the job history in response to a request from the user.

[0159] On the other hand, if it is determined that the setting history information is not to be generated (step S260; No), the control unit 11 ends the process.

[0160] [2.3 Example of operation] 18A shows an example of the configuration of a job program call screen W130 displayed by the control unit 11 reading out the job registration program 331. As shown in FIG.

[0161] The job program call screen W130 has a job program call tab T23. The job program call tab T23 includes a job program selection area R71, a call button B25, a register / delete button B27, and an end button B29.

[0162] In the job program selection area R71, for example, a created job program is registered or deleted, and a job program that the user wants to execute is selected by pressing a display button to which each job program number (JP_No. 1 to 12) is assigned.

[0163] The call button B25 is a button that accepts an input of a call instruction for a job program from the user. When pressed by the user, the control unit 11 calls the job program corresponding to the job program number accepted via the job program selection area R71.

[0164] As shown in Fig. 18(b), the user selects the job program number corresponding to the job program to be called (in this figure, job program number 2 (JP_No. 2) is shown to be selected). Then, the user can call the desired job program by pressing the call button B25.

[0165] The register / delete button B27 is a button for accepting registration or deletion of a job program called by the control unit 11.

[0166] The end button B29 is a button that is pressed by the user when closing the job program call screen W130. When the end button B29 is pressed, the control unit 11 ends the processing by the job registration program 331.

[0167] 19 shows an example of the configuration of a setting screen W140 displayed by the control unit 11 when the call button B25 on the job program call screen W130 is pressed. Note that the same components as those in the setting screen W20 according to the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions of parts that are not required will be omitted.

[0168] The setting screen W140 includes job function tabs T11 to T15, a setting value input / change area R19, a job program display area R73, a comparison setting value setting button B15, an OK button B17, and a cancel button B19.

[0169] The setting value input / change area R19 is an area for accepting input / change of setting values ​​related to job execution. When a desired job program is selected via the job program call screen W130 in Fig. 18 and the call button B25 is pressed, the control unit 11 reflects and displays the contents of the setting values ​​related to the setting history information of the selected job program in the setting value input / change area R19.

[0170] The user can understand the setting values ​​related to the job execution by checking the setting values ​​of the setting history information displayed in the setting value input / change area R19. For example, FIG. 19 shows a state in which job program No. 2 "JP No. 2" is selected and the setting value contents of the setting history information are displayed. Specifically, in this example, the setting value item: color mode setting value "full color", the setting value item: number of copies setting value "100 copies", the setting value item: paper (original) size setting value "A4 (automatic)", the setting value item: paper type setting value "plain paper (automatic, A4)", the setting value item: copy density setting value "automatic", and the setting value item: zoom magnification setting value "100%" are displayed as the setting values.

[0171] Other setting values ​​(for example, double-sided printing, N-Up printing, fit pages, finishing functions, etc.) can be displayed by pressing the "Special Functions" button in the setting value input / change area R19.

[0172] The job program display area R73 is a display area that displays the job program number corresponding to the job program called by the user via the job program call screen W130. Here, the relevant area is displayed in a darkened state so that it can be easily understood that the job program related to job program No. 2 "JP No. 2" has been selected by the user.

[0173] Next, the comparison set value setting screen W150 displayed by the control unit 11 in response to pressing of the comparison set value setting button B15 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0174] The comparison setting value setting screen W150 according to the second embodiment accepts the selection and confirmation of setting values ​​used for comparing the setting values ​​related to a newly executed job with the setting values ​​related to the setting history information of a selected job program.

[0175] The comparison setting value setting screen W150 includes a first setting value input tab T17, a second setting value input tab T19, a display setting tab T25, a setting history tab T27, a specified setting value number etc. display area R23, an OK button B21, and a cancel button B23.

[0176] The comparison set value setting screen W150 can have substantially the same configuration as the comparison set value setting screen W30 according to the first embodiment. For example, FIG. 20(a) is a diagram for explaining an example of the configuration of the first set value input tab T17 in the comparison set value setting screen W150, which corresponds to the example of the configuration of the first set value input tab T17 according to the first embodiment in FIG. 10(a). FIG. 20(b) is a diagram for explaining an example of the configuration of the second set value input tab T19, which corresponds to the example of the configuration of the second set value input tab T19 according to the first embodiment in FIG. 10(b).

[0177] The display setting tab T25 accepts settings related to the display of the job history described in Fig. 16 and Fig. 17. Fig. 20(c) shows one example of the display settings of the job history. In step S240 of Fig. 16, if the job history including the difference in the setting values ​​related to the job execution (changed setting values) is to be displayed, the user checks "Display difference job history". If the setting values ​​related to the job execution are not changed and the job history is not to be displayed (step S250 of Fig. 17; No), the user checks "Do not display same job history".

[0178] If the setting values ​​related to job execution have not been changed but the job history is to be displayed (step S250 in FIG. 17; Yes), or if the setting values ​​related to job execution have not been changed and the initial setting was set to not display the job history but the setting is later changed to display the job history, the user checks “Display same job history.”

[0179] The setting history tab T27 accepts a setting input as to whether or not to generate and store setting history information for a new job when the setting values ​​related to job execution have not been changed. If setting history information for a job executed with the same setting values ​​as those related to the setting history information of the job program is to be generated and stored, the user checks "Generate and store setting history information."

[0180] 21 shows an example of the configuration of a job history display screen. The job history screen W160 includes a print tab T29, a scan tab T31, a fax tab T33, a job history display area R75, a status display area R77, a display button B31, and a cancel / delete button B33.

[0181] The print tab T29, scan tab T31, and fax tab T33 are tabs that accept switching of the display of job history for each job function of print, scan, and fax. By selecting any of the print tab T29, scan tab T31, and fax tab T33, the user can display the job history of jobs executed based on each job function. Fig. 21 shows an example of a configuration in which a job history related to a print job is displayed.

[0182] The job history display area R75 lists the job histories of jobs executed by executing a job program in the order of execution. The job history display area R75 is an example of a display when "display difference job history" is checked in the display setting tab T25 of the comparison setting value setting screen W150 in Fig. 20. In this case, job No. 3 represents a newly executed job based on the job program (JP_No. 2) of job No. 2. In this case, the control unit 11 displays the job program name (JP_No. 2) and the number of copies to be printed (set / finished number of copies) as the difference in the setting values ​​(changed setting values), which are items to be displayed in the job history (within the dotted frame in the figure).

[0183] The status display area R77 is an example of a display area that displays the execution status of a job related to a job program. The job execution status can be expressed as three stages: spool, reserved / executing, and finished, and the actual job execution status can be expressed by the display of an arrow. The example in Fig. 21 displays that the job has been completed as the job execution status.

[0184] The display button B31 accepts an input for displaying setting history information of a job program. For example, when the user presses the display button B31, the control unit 11 displays the setting screen W140 illustrated in FIG.

[0185] The stop / delete button B33 accepts an input for canceling execution of a job related to the job program or deleting it from the job history.

[0186] 22 shows another example of the configuration of the job history display screen. The job history screen W170 includes a job history display area R79 that displays the job history in a different display format from the job history display area R75 of the job history screen W160 shown in FIG.

[0187] The job history display area R79 displays the job histories of jobs executed by executing a job program in the order of execution. The job history display area R79 is an example of a display when "Hide same job history" is checked in the display setting tab T25 of the comparison setting value setting screen W150 in FIG. 20. In this case, the job No. 3 surrounded by a dotted line frame in the figure represents a newly executed job based on the job program (JP_No. 2) of job No. 2. In this case, the control unit 11 does not display the job history even if it is a job that has actually been executed. Note that the job history relating to the execution of the same job surrounded by a dotted line frame in the figure is not actually displayed, but is visualized to make it easier to understand.

[0188] 23 shows another example of the job history display screen. The job history screen W180 includes a job history display area R81 that displays the job history in a different display format from the job history display area R75 of the job history screen W160 shown in FIG.

[0189] The job history display area R81 displays the job histories of jobs executed by executing a job program in the order of execution. The job history display area R81 is an example of a display when "Display same job history" is checked in the display setting tab T25 of the comparison setting value setting screen W150 in Fig. 20. In this case, the job No. 3 surrounded by a dotted line frame in the figure represents a newly executed job based on the job program (JP_No. 2) of job No. 2. In this case, the control unit 11 displays the job program name (JP_No. 2) and the execution user name as items to be displayed in the job history (within the dotted line frame in the figure).

[0190] As described above, according to the second embodiment, when a new job is executed based on the setting history information related to a previously executed job selected via a job program, the display format of the job history related to the new job is determined based on the determination result of whether or not the setting values ​​related to the execution of the job are identical to the setting values ​​related to the setting history information of the previously executed job, so that the user can reliably use the job history related to the desired job.

[0191] [3. Third embodiment] In the third embodiment, a multifunction peripheral having a configuration for automatically acquiring setting values ​​related to setting history information will be described. In the third embodiment, an APS (Automatic Paper Selection) function will be described as an example of a configuration for automatically acquiring setting values. In the description of the third embodiment, the same functional units and processes as those in the first embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals, and the description will be omitted.

[0192] [3.1 Functional configuration] 24 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of a multifunction device 50 according to the third embodiment. The multifunction device 50 according to the third embodiment includes a storage unit 53 instead of the storage unit 23 of the multifunction device 10.

[0193] In the third embodiment, the memory unit 53 stores a job execution program 231, a setting history information processing program 233, a setting value comparison judgment program 235, and an APS control program 531, and reserves a setting value memory area 237, a setting history information memory area 239, and a job history information memory area 241.

[0194] The APS control program 531 is a program read by the control unit 11 in order to automatically determine the tray storing paper suitable for the document size based on the setting value of the document size and the like when multiple trays each storing paper of different sizes such as A4 size, B5 size, A3 size, etc. are installed as the paper feed unit 25 of the multifunction device 10 and feed the paper. By reading the APS control program 531, the control unit 11 controls various sensors for determining the document size (not shown) and various parts such as the automatic paper feed mechanism.

[0195] [3.2 Processing flow] Next, the flow of processing according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0196] 25, the processes from step S300 onward correspond to the processes related to job execution using the setting history information. The processes related to steps S270 and S280 may be the processes related to job execution not using the setting history information, or may be the processes related to job execution using the setting history information.

[0197] In step S270, when the APS function automatically selects a tray based on the document size (step S270), the control unit 11 judges whether or not the user has selected to store only the APS setting values. Here, storing only the APS setting values ​​means, for example, storing basic setting values ​​related to the APS setting, such as whether the APS setting is enabled or disabled, and not storing setting values ​​related to the tray number, paper size, etc. The selection of whether or not to store only the APS setting values ​​can be made, for example, via a comparison setting value setting screen, which will be described in the next drawing, or the like.

[0198] If the user selects to store only the APS set value (step S280; Yes), the control unit 11 stores the APS set value (step S290) and ends the process.

[0199] On the other hand, if the user has not selected to store only the APS setting value (step S280; No), the control unit 11 checks whether or not to store both the tray number and the paper size as setting history information (step S300). If both the tray number and the paper size are to be stored (step S300; Yes), the control unit 11 checks whether or not the paper size set for the stored tray number matches the stored paper size (step S310).

[0200] Here, if the paper size set in the stored tray number does not match the stored paper size, i.e., if paper of a different size is set in the tray corresponding to the stored tray number (step S310; No), when an instruction to execute the job is input (step S320), the control unit 11 displays a message to the user prompting them to select a tray (step S330).

[0201] When the user selects a desired tray and feeds paper, the control unit 11 executes the job (step S340) and ends the process.

[0202] If the paper size set in the stored tray number matches the stored paper size (step S310; Yes), the control unit 11 executes the job and ends the process.

[0203] On the other hand, if neither the tray number nor the paper size is to be stored (step S300; No), control unit 11 stores only the paper size (step S350).

[0204] Then, when a command to execute a job is input (step S360), the control unit 11 selects a tray that contains the most suitable paper based on the stored paper size, and automatically feeds the paper from that tray (step S370). When the paper is automatically fed, the control unit 11 executes the job (step S340) and ends the process.

[0205] [3.3 Example of operation] Next, an operation example according to the third embodiment will be described. Fig. 26(a) is an example of a configuration of a comparison setting value setting screen W190 that accepts a user's selection of APS settings. The comparison setting value setting screen W190 can have a configuration equivalent to that of the comparison setting value setting screen W30 according to the first embodiment. In the comparison setting value setting screen W190 according to the third embodiment, the first setting value input tab T17 has an APS setting check box area R83 that accepts the selection of APS settings below the paper feed method.

[0206] Fig. 26(b) is an example of the configuration of a confirmation screen displayed by the control unit 11 when the user checks the checkbox in the APS setting checkbox area R83 in Fig. 26(a). Note that this operation example is an operation example corresponding to the processing of step S290 in Fig. 25. The user can store only the APS settings by selecting "Yes" in response to the confirmation item "Do you want to store only the APS settings?" on the confirmation screen.

[0207] Fig. 27 shows an example of a tray selection screen displayed to the user when the control unit 11 stores only the paper size and executes a job based on the setting history information. Note that this operation example corresponds to the process of step S350 in Fig. 25. The user can execute a job with the optimal paper size by selecting or inputting the number of the desired tray via the tray selection screen.

[0208] As described above, according to the third embodiment, in a multifunction device configured to automatically acquire setting values, a user can obtain the execution results of a desired job by appropriately selecting processing depending on the storage status of the acquired setting values ​​in the setting history information.

[0209] 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.

[0210] Although the above-described embodiments are described separately for convenience of explanation, they may be combined and executed within a technically feasible range.

[0211] 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.

[0212] 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) Disk), 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.

[0213] 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]

[0214] 10, 30, 50 multifunction devices 11 Control section 13 Display section 15 Control section 17 Communications Department 19 Image forming section 21 Image reading unit 23, 33, 53 storage section 231 Job Execution Program 233 Setting history information processing program 235 Set value comparison judgment program 237 Setting value storage area 239 Setting history information storage area 241 Job history information storage area 331 Job Registration Program 531 APS control program

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus which executes a job based on a setting value, a storage unit that stores setting history information including the setting values ​​related to executed jobs; a display unit that displays the setting history information stored in the storage unit; A control unit. The control unit is An image forming apparatus characterized in that, when a setting value related to a newly executed job is identical to the setting value contained in the setting history information related to the already executed job displayed on the display unit, the setting history information including the execution date and time of the newly executed job is displayed on the display unit instead of the setting history information related to the already executed job.

2. The control unit is The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that as the setting history information including the execution date and time of the newly executed job, setting history information in which the execution date and time of the setting history information related to the already executed job is updated to the execution date and time of the newly executed job is displayed.

3. The control unit is 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein setting history information generated as the setting history information related to the newly executed job is displayed as the setting history information including the execution date and time of the newly executed job.

4. The control unit is An image forming apparatus as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that if the setting values ​​related to the newly executed job are not identical to the setting values ​​included in the setting history information related to the already executed job displayed on the display unit, the setting history information related to the newly executed job is newly displayed.

5. The control unit is 5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the setting history information relating to the new job is a difference from the already executed job displayed on the display unit.

6. The control unit is An image forming apparatus as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that a setting screen including at least one of the setting history information and the setting value included in the setting history information selected by a user is displayed on the display unit, and input or change of the setting value is accepted via the setting screen.

7. The setting values ​​related to the execution of the job can be registered as a job program, The control unit is An image forming apparatus as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that when the setting values ​​related to the newly executed job are identical to the setting values ​​included in the job program, it is determined whether or not to generate setting history information related to the newly executed job based on the setting contents previously set by a user.

8. A method for controlling an image forming apparatus that executes a job based on a setting value, comprising: storing setting history information including the setting values ​​related to the executed jobs; displaying the stored setting history information on a display device; A control method for an image forming device, comprising: when a setting value relating to a newly executed job is identical to the setting value included in the setting history information relating to the already executed job displayed on the display device, displaying setting history information including the execution date and time of the newly executed job on the display device instead of the setting history information relating to the already executed job.

Images