Information processing system and program

Abstract

To provide a system that outputs a plurality of pieces of image data having different formats from each other according to output processing through a plurality of different types of output processing, and achieves the output of the image data through the plurality of different types of output processing even when the system does not have a memory that stores all the plurality of pieces of image data.SOLUTION: A processor stores, in a memory, first image data that is output first through first output processing, and outputs the first image data through the first output processing. The processor generates second image data that is output later through second output processing on the basis of the first image data. The processor stores the second image data in the memory, deletes the first image data from the memory, and outputs the second image data through the second output processing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing system and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] There is known a technology for outputting image data generated by scanning an original document through a plurality of different output processes. In this case, image data having a format corresponding to each output process is generated for each output process. As a result, a plurality of image data having formats different from each other are generated according to the output processes, and each image data is output by the output process corresponding to the image data.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes an image processing device that converts image data stored in an image storage means into a data format compatible with a destination user terminal.

[0004] Patent Document 2 describes an image processing device that converts the format of image data stored by a storage means to match the attributes of the image data handled by a client terminal, and transmits the converted image data to the client terminal.

[0005] Patent document 3 describes an image input / output device that converts the resolution of input image data into a predetermined resolution, converts the format of the image data with the converted resolution into a predetermined format, and transmits the converted image data. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] JP 2004-194278 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2005-304012 A [Patent Document 3] JP 2003-333266 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] When image data is output by a plurality of different output processes, it is conceivable that a plurality of image data having different formats according to the output process is stored in a memory included in a system that outputs the image data. However, depending on the memory capacity of the system, it may be difficult to store all of the plurality of image data in the memory of the system.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to realize the output of image data through a plurality of different output processes when multiple image data having different formats depending on the output process are output through a plurality of different output processes, even if the system outputting the image data does not have memory to store all of the multiple image data. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The invention of claim 1 is an information processing system having a processor and a memory, wherein when image data generated by reading a document is output by each of a plurality of different output processes, the processor determines the order in which image data is output by each output process based on the format of image data output by each output process, stores first image data output by a first output process which has an earlier output order among the plurality of different output processes in the memory, outputs the first image data by the first output process, generates second image data based on the first image data to be output by a second output process which has a later output order, stores the second image data in the memory, deletes the first image data from the memory, and outputs the second image data by the second output process.

[0010] The invention of claim 2 is an information processing system as described in claim 1, in which the processor determines the order of output depending on whether the image data to be output is color image data or not, and if the first image data is color image data and the second image data is not color image data, generates the second image data based on the first image data, and outputs the second image data by the second output processing after output by the first output processing.

[0011] The invention of claim 3 is the information processing system described in claim 2, wherein the processor determines the order of output by the first output process and output by the second output process based on the respective resolutions of the first image data and the second image data when the first image data and the second image data are color image data, and when the resolution of the first image data is higher than the resolution of the second image data, generates the second image data based on the first image data, and performs output by the second output process after output by the first output process.

[0012] The invention of claim 4 is an information processing system as described in claim 3, wherein the processor determines, when the resolution of the first image data and the resolution of the second image data are the same, that the output by the first output process will be output before the output of the second output process in accordance with a predetermined priority order.

[0013] The invention according to claim 5 is the information processing system according to claim 4, wherein the priority order is set every time image data is output by the plurality of different output processes.

[0014] An invention according to claim 6 is the information processing system according to claim 4, wherein the processor causes a display to display a user interface for allowing a user to set the plurality of different output processes and the priorities.

[0015] The invention of claim 7 is an information processing system as described in claim 1, wherein the processor generates the second image data and the third image data based on the first image data when third image data is output by a third output process after output by the second output process and the third image data cannot be generated by the second image data.

[0016] The invention of claim 8 is an information processing system described in claim 7, wherein the processor generates the second image data and the third image data based on the first image data when the second image data is color image data, the third image data is not color image data, and the resolution of the second image data is lower than the resolution of the third image data.

[0017] The invention of claim 9 is the information processing system of claim 1, wherein the processor, when color image data is output, sets an output process among the plurality of different output processes that outputs color image data with the highest resolution to a first output process that outputs image data first among the plurality of different output processes, and when color image data is not output, sets an output process among the plurality of different output processes that outputs image data with the highest resolution to the first output process, and generates image data to be output by the first output process by reading the original.

[0018] The invention of claim 10 is a program that causes a computer having a memory to operate in the following manner: when image data generated by reading a document is output by each of a plurality of different output processes, the program determines the order in which image data will be output by each output process based on the format of the image data output by each output process, stores in the memory first image data that will be output by a first output process that has an earlier output order among the plurality of different output processes, outputs the first image data by the first output process, generates second image data based on the first image data that will be output by a second output process that has a later output order, stores the second image data in the memory, deletes the first image data from the memory, and outputs the second image data by the second output process. Effect of the Invention

[0019] According to the inventions of claims 1 and 10, when multiple image data having formats different from one another depending on the output process are output by multiple different output processes, even if the system that outputs the image data does not have memory for storing all of the multiple image data, it is possible to realize the output of image data by multiple different output processes.

[0020] According to the invention of claim 2, when a plurality of image data including color image data are to be output, each of the plurality of image data can be generated and output.

[0021] According to the invention as set forth in claim 3, when a plurality of image data having different resolutions are to be output, the plurality of image data can be generated and output.

[0022] According to the invention as defined in claim 4, when a plurality of output processes output color image data with the same resolution, the output order can be determined and each image data can be output.

[0023] According to the invention as set forth in claim 5, every time image data is output, the order of output can be determined and each image data can be output.

[0024] According to the invention as set forth in claim 6, the user can determine the output processes and the order of the outputs.

[0025] According to the invention as defined in claims 7 and 8, even in a case where the third image data cannot be generated based on the second image data, the third image data can be generated and output.

[0026] According to the invention as defined in claim 9, it is not necessary to generate image data that does not need to be generated. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment; [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration related to output processing. [Diagram 3] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing by the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an entire system according to an embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing settings of an output process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a process flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing settings of an output process according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a priority table. [Figure 10] FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a process flow according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing settings of an output process according to the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0028] An image forming apparatus 10 according to an embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 10.

[0029] The image forming apparatus 10 generates image data by reading an original document, and outputs the image data through a plurality of different output processes. For each output process, the image forming apparatus 10 generates image data having a format corresponding to the output process. The image forming apparatus 10 outputs each image data through an output process corresponding to the image data.

[0030] For example, the image forming apparatus 10 may include a scanner and generate image data by scanning an original document with the scanner. The image forming apparatus 10 may include a printer and form an image based on the image data on a recording medium such as paper. That is, the image forming apparatus 10 may print an image. The image forming apparatus 10 may include a facsimile device and transmit image data to another facsimile device by facsimile communication. The image forming apparatus 10 may be a multifunction device including a scanner, a printer, a facsimile device, etc.

[0031] The output process is a process of storing image data in a memory, a process of transmitting image data to an external device other than the image forming apparatus 10, or a process of forming an image on a recording medium such as paper (that is, printing).

[0032] The memory may be a memory installed in the image forming apparatus 10, or may be an external memory connected to the image forming apparatus 10. For example, the external memory is a USB memory, a hard disk drive, or an optical disk (e.g., a CD, a DVD, a Blu-ray disk, etc.). The image forming apparatus 10 stores image data in the memory as an example of output processing.

[0033] The external device is a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as "PC"), a tablet PC, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a server, a facsimile machine, etc. As an example of output processing, the image forming apparatus 10 transmits image data to a PC or a server via a communication path such as the Internet or a LAN (Local Area Network). As another example, the image forming apparatus 10 transmits image data to a facsimile machine by facsimile communication.

[0034] The function of outputting image data using a plurality of different output processes is sometimes called a multi-job flow function.

[0035] The format of the image data is at least one of a color mode and a resolution. For example, color, grayscale, or monochrome are examples of color modes. Note that the color image data may be full-color image data (e.g., image data reproduced in approximately 16.77 million colors) or image data other than full-color (e.g., image data reproduced in a number of colors other than approximately 16.77 million colors). The number of colors used in the color image data may be selected by the user.

[0036] The plurality of different output processes may be processes for outputting image data having formats corresponding to the plurality of different output destinations, or may be processes for outputting a plurality of image data having mutually different formats to the same output destination. The output destination is a memory, an external device, or a recording medium such as paper.

[0037] For example, a process of outputting image data to a plurality of different output destinations may involve storing image data in a first format in a memory and transmitting image data in a second format to a server, the second format being different from the first format.

[0038] A process of transmitting image data having a first format and image data having a second format for the same image data to the same server is an example of a process of outputting image data to the same output destination. In this way, a process of outputting multiple image data having different formats to the same output destination corresponds to an example of multiple different output processes.

[0039] It should be noted that the output destinations given here are merely examples, and the output destination may be any of a memory, an external device, or a recording medium.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 10 includes an image forming unit 12, a UI 14, a communication device 16, a memory 18, and a processor 20.

[0041] The image forming unit 12 includes at least a scanner and has a scanning function. That is, the image forming unit 12 has at least a function of generating image data by reading a document. Furthermore, the image forming unit 12 may include a printer and have a copy function and a print function. That is, the image forming unit 12 may have a function of forming an image based on image data generated by reading a document on a recording medium such as paper. Furthermore, the image forming unit 12 may form an image based on image data transmitted from a device other than the image forming device 10 on a recording medium.

[0042] The UI 14 is a user interface and includes a display and an operation device. The display is a liquid crystal display or an EL display. The operation device is a keyboard, a mouse, an input key, an operation panel, etc. The UI 14 may be a UI such as a touch panel (e.g., an operation panel) that combines a display and an operation device.

[0043] The communication device 16 includes one or more communication interfaces having a communication chip, a communication circuit, etc., and has a function of transmitting information to other devices and a function of receiving information from other devices. The communication device 16 may have a wireless communication function such as short-range wireless communication or Wi-Fi (registered trademark), or may have a wired communication function. The communication device 16 may also have a facsimile function and transmit image data to another facsimile device by facsimile communication.

[0044] The memory 18 is a device constituting one or more storage areas for storing data. The memory 18 is, for example, a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), various types of memory (for example, RAM, DRAM, NVRAM, ROM, etc.), other storage devices (for example, optical disks, etc.), or a combination thereof. For example, image data generated by reading a document is stored in the memory 18.

[0045] The processor 20 controls the operation of each part of the image forming apparatus 10 .

[0046] Moreover, the processor 20 outputs the image data generated by reading the document by each of a plurality of different output processes. In this case, the processor 20 determines the order of output of the image data by each output process based on the format of the image data output by each output process. The processor 20 stores the first image data output by the first output process in the memory 18, and outputs the first image data by the first output process. The processor 20 also generates the second image data output by the second output process based on the first image data. When the second image data is generated, the processor 20 deletes the first image data from the memory 18, and stores the second image data in the memory 18. After that, the processor 20 outputs the second image data by the second output process.

[0047] For example, the processor 20 determines the order of output depending on whether the image data to be output is color image data. The processor 20 determines the output process that outputs color image data as the output process to be executed first, and determines the output process that outputs grayscale image data as the output process to be executed later. For example, if the first output process is a process that outputs color image data and the second output process is a process that outputs grayscale image data, the processor 20 determines the first output process as the output process to be executed first, and determines the second output process as the output process to be executed later. The processor 20 generates the second image data based on the first image data. It is possible to generate grayscale image data based on color image data. Conversely, it is not possible to generate color image data based on grayscale image data. Therefore, the processor 20 determines the output process that outputs color image data as the output process to be executed first, and determines the output process that outputs grayscale image data as the output process to be executed later. That is, when the first image data output by the first output process is color image data and the second image data output by the second output process is not color image data (for example, when the second image data is grayscale image data), the processor 20 generates the second image data based on the first image data. The processor 20 performs output by the second output process after output by the first output process.

[0048] When the first image data and the second image data are color image data, the processor 20 determines the order of output based on the resolution. The processor 20 determines the output process that outputs image data with a higher resolution as the output process to be executed first, and determines the output process that outputs image data with a lower resolution as the output process to be executed later. It is possible to generate image data with a lower resolution based on image data with a higher resolution. Conversely, it is not possible to generate image data with a higher resolution based on image data with a lower resolution. Therefore, the processor 20 determines the output process that outputs image data with a higher resolution as the output process to be executed first, and determines the output process that outputs image data with a lower resolution as the output process to be executed later. For example, when the resolution of the first image data is higher than the resolution of the second image data, the processor 20 generates the second image data based on the first image data, and outputs the second image data by the first output process and then by the second output process.

[0049] When the first image data and the second image data are color image data and the resolution of the first image data and the resolution of the second image data are the same, the processor 20 determines the order of each output process according to a preset priority. The priority may be set by the user. Also, the priority may be set every time image data is output.

[0050] The functions related to the output process will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the functions related to the output process.

[0051] The image forming apparatus 10 has a receiving unit 22, an input processing unit 24, a storage unit 26, a conversion unit 28, and an output processing unit 30 as functions related to output processing.

[0052] The reception unit 22 receives the selection of the output process. For example, the processor 20 provides a user interface for the user to select the output process. Specifically, the processor 20 displays a selection screen for the user to select the output process on the display of the UI 14. The user selects the output process to be executed on the selection screen. The reception unit 22 receives the selection by the user. The output process selected by the user is executed by the image forming apparatus 10.

[0053] The user also selects the format of image data corresponding to the output process. That is, the user selects the format of image data to be output by the output process. When a plurality of different output processes are executed, the user selects the format of image data for each output process. The user may select the format of image data on the above selection screen, or may select the format of image data on a screen different from the above selection screen. The accepting unit 22 accepts the user's selection of the format of image data.

[0054] The format of the image data may be predetermined for each output process. In this case, when an output process is selected by a user, the format of the image data corresponding to the selected output process is selected. Even in this case, the format of the image data may be changed by the user.

[0055] The input processing unit 24 receives input of image data to be output. For example, when the image forming unit 12 generates image data by reading a document, the input processing unit 24 receives input of the image data and stores the image data in the storage unit 26.

[0056] The storage unit 26 is realized by the memory 18. The storage unit 26 stores image data to be subjected to output processing.

[0057] The conversion unit 28 converts the format of the image data to generate image data having a format corresponding to the output processing selected by the user. The image data whose format has been converted is stored in the storage unit 26.

[0058] The output processing unit 30 executes the output processing selected by the user. Depending on the output processing, the image forming unit 12, the communication device 16, or the memory 18 is used.

[0059] The reception unit 22, the input processing unit 24, the conversion unit 28, and the output processing unit 30 are realized by the processor 20. For the realization thereof, the communication device 16 and the memory 18 may be used.

[0060] The process performed by the image forming apparatus 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a flowchart showing the flow of the process performed by the image forming apparatus 10.

[0061] For example, a plurality of different output processes are selected by the user, and the image forming apparatus 10 executes each of the plurality of different output processes in turn.

[0062] First, the processor 20 determines the order of output of image data by each output process based on the format of the image data to be output by each output process (S01). That is, the processor 20 determines the order of execution of each output process. The method of determining the order of execution will be described in detail later.

[0063] Next, the processor 20 executes scanning by the image forming unit 12 (S02). That is, the image forming unit 12 generates image data by reading a document. For example, the image forming unit 12 generates image data that can be used to generate image data that is output by each output process that is executed. The image forming unit 12 may generate image data that is output by the first output process that is executed.

[0064] Next, the processor 20 converts the format of the image data generated by reading the document (S03). For example, the processor 20 converts the format of the image data generated by reading the document into the format of the image data to be output by the output process executed first. If the image data to be output by the output process executed first is generated in step S02, the conversion process is not executed.

[0065] Next, the processor 20 stores the image data converted in step S03 in the memory 18 (S04). For example, the processor 20 stores in the memory 18 the image data (hereinafter, for convenience, referred to as "image data 1") output by the output process executed first.

[0066] Next, the processor 20 executes the output process (S05). For example, the processor 20 executes the first output process to output image data that is the target of the first output process (i.e., image data 1).

[0067] If there is no output process to be executed after the output process executed in step S05 (S06: None), the process ends.

[0068] If there is an output process to be executed following the output process executed in step S05 (S06, there is a next output process), the process returns to step S03.

[0069] For example, if there is a second output process, and the first output process has been executed in step S05, the processes from step S03 to step S05 are executed for the second output process.

[0070] Specifically, the processor 20 reads the image data 1 stored in the memory 18, and converts the format of the image data 1 into the format of image data (hereinafter, for convenience, referred to as "image data 2") to be output by the second output process executed (S03). When the image data 2 is generated, the processor 20 deletes the image data 1 from the memory 18, and stores the image data 2 in the memory 18 (S04). Next, the processor 20 outputs the image data 2 by executing the second output process.

[0071] If there is no output process to be executed third (S06, none), the process ends. If there is an output process to be executed third (S06, next output process), the process returns to step S03. As with the second output process, the process from step S03 to step S05 is executed for the third output process.

[0072] As described above, when a plurality of different output processes are executed, the plurality of different output processes are executed without storing all of the image data output by the plurality of different output processes in the memory 18. Therefore, there is no need to secure memory capacity for storing all of the image data output by the plurality of different output processes. Explaining the above example, the first output process and the second output process are executed without storing all of the image data 1 and 2 in the memory 18. Therefore, there is no need to secure memory capacity for storing all of the image data 1 and 2. In other words, even if the image forming device 10 is not equipped with a memory having a capacity for storing all of the image data, the plurality of different output processes are executed.

[0073] Examples will now be described.

[0074] The entire system including the image forming apparatus 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing the entire system.

[0075] For example, the overall system includes an image forming apparatus 10, a PC 32, a server 34, a server 36, and a facsimile machine 38. Also, a USB memory 40 is connected to the image forming apparatus 10. The PC 32, the servers 34 and 36, and the facsimile machine 38 are examples of external devices. The USB memory 40 is an example of an external memory.

[0076] The image forming apparatus 10, the PC 32, the server 34, and the server 36 communicate with other apparatuses via a communication path N1. For example, the communication path N1 is a network such as the Internet or a LAN. The communication path N1 may be established by wired communication or may be established by wireless communication such as Wi-Fi. The image forming apparatus 10 and the facsimile apparatus 38 communicate by facsimile via a communication path N2. For example, the communication path N2 is a telephone line.

[0077] The configuration shown in FIG. 4 is merely an example. A plurality of PCs may be included in the overall system, or a PC may not be included in the overall system. The number of servers included in the overall system may be one, or a server may not be included in the overall system. A plurality of facsimile machines may be included in the overall system, or a facsimile machine may not be included in the overall system. An external memory such as the USB memory 40 may not be connected to the image forming apparatus 10, or an external memory other than the USB memory 40 may be connected to the image forming apparatus 10.

[0078] For example, the image forming apparatus 10 has, as output processes, ScanToPC, ScanToServer, ScanToUSB, FAX, and Copy.

[0079] ScanToPC is a process of transmitting image data generated by reading an original document with a scanner from the image forming apparatus 10 to a PC via a communication path N1.

[0080] ScanToServer is a process of transmitting image data generated by reading an original document with a scanner to a server via a communication path N1.

[0081] ScanToUSB is a process for storing image data generated by reading an original document with a scanner in a USB memory connected to the image forming apparatus 10.

[0082] FAX is a process of transmitting image data generated by reading an original document with a scanner via communication path N2.

[0083] The copy function is a process for printing an image based on image data generated by reading an original document with a scanner onto a recording medium such as paper.

[0084] The image forming apparatus 10 has a function of executing a plurality of different selected output processes (i.e., a multi-job flow function). That is, the image forming apparatus 10 has a function of executing a plurality of output processes for one input process (i.e., one scan). Of course, the image forming apparatus 10 may have a function of executing each output process separately.

[0085] The selection screen will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 shows the selection screen 42. The selection screen 42 is a screen for the user to select an output process.

[0086] For example, when the user issues an instruction to display the selection screen 42 by operating the UI 14, the processor 20 causes the selection screen 42 to be displayed on the display of the UI 14.

[0087] A list of a plurality of different output processes is displayed on the selection screen 42. The plurality of output processes are output processes that the image forming apparatus 10 can execute.

[0088] For example, ScanToPC, ScanToServer, ScanToUSB, FAX, and Copy are displayed on the selection screen 42 as examples of output processes.

[0089] Also displayed on the selection screen 42 are check boxes 44 to 52. The check boxes are images that allow the user to select the output process to be executed. The check box 44 corresponds to ScanToPC. The check box 46 corresponds to ScanToServer. The check box 48 corresponds to ScanToUSB. The check box 50 corresponds to FAX. The check box 52 corresponds to Copy.

[0090] In the example shown in FIG. 5, ScanToServer, ScanToUSB, and Copy have been selected by the user as the output processes to be executed.

[0091] Settings for each output process may be performed. For example, items such as the color mode of the image data to be output, the resolution of the image data to be output, and the number of copies are set for each output process. When the user selects the color mode, resolution, number of copies, etc. of the image data for each output process, the selected contents are set for each output process. In addition, when multiple servers, multiple PCs, or multiple facsimile machines are included in the overall system, the server, PC, or facsimile machine to which the image data is to be sent is selected as the setting contents. Note that the setting contents for each output process may be determined in advance. Even in this case, the user may change the setting contents.

[0092] A start button 54 is displayed on the selection screen 42. When the user presses the start button 54 on the selection screen 42, the processor 20 executes the process according to the procedure shown in Fig. 3. In the example shown in Fig. 5, ScanToServer, ScanToUSB, and Copy are executed in the determined order.

[0093] The user may select one output process on the selection screen 42. In this case, the processor 20 executes the selected output process.

[0094] Example 1 A first embodiment will be described below. The order of execution of the output process will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 shows the settings of the output process according to the first embodiment. The "service" shown in Fig. 6 is the output process.

[0095] In the first embodiment, ScanToServer, ScanToUSB, and Copy are selected as the output processes to be executed.

[0096] The color mode of ScanToServer is grayscale. The resolution of ScanToServer is 300 dpi. In other words, the image data sent to the server by ScanToServer is grayscale image data with a resolution of 300 dpi.

[0097] The color mode of ScanToUSB is color. The resolution of ScanToUSB is 300 dpi. In other words, the image data stored in the USB memory by ScanToUSB is color image data with a resolution of 300 dpi.

[0098] The color mode of Copy is color. The resolution of Copy is 600 dpi. In other words, the image data to be copied is color image data with a resolution of 600 dpi.

[0099] The process according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 shows a flowchart showing the flow of the process according to the first embodiment. The processor 20 checks the color mode and the resolution based on the setting contents of each output process to be executed.

[0100] First, the processor 20 determines the order of each output process based on the color mode of the image data output by each output process (S11).

[0101] When there are not a plurality of output processes with the same condition for the color mode (S12, there are no identical conditions), the process of determining the output order ends.

[0102] When there are a plurality of output processes with the same conditions for the color mode (S12, yes), the processor 20 determines the order of each output process based on the resolution (S13).

[0103] 6, the color modes of ScanToUSB and Copy are color, and the color mode of ScanToServer is grayscale. Since there are multiple output processes with the same conditions for the color mode, the processor 20 executes the process of step S13.

[0104] The processor 20 determines that the output process that outputs the color mode image data is to be the output process prior to the output process that outputs the grayscale image data. Therefore, the processor 20 determines that the third output process is ScanToServer. At this stage, the order of ScanToUSB and Copy is not determined.

[0105] Next, the processor 20 determines the order of output processes based on the resolution of the image data output by ScanToUSB and the resolution of the image data output by Copy (S13). The processor 20 determines the output process that outputs high-resolution image data as the output process prior to the output process that outputs low-resolution image data.

[0106] 6, the resolution of Copy is 600 dpi, and the resolution of ScanToUSB is 300 dpi. Therefore, the processor 20 determines Copy as the output process to be executed prior to ScanToUSB.

[0107] As a result of the above, the processor 20 determines Copy as the first output process, ScanToUSB as the second output process, and ScanToServer as the third output process. The processor 20 executes each output process in this order.

[0108] When the order of each output process is determined, the image forming unit 12 reads the document. For example, the image forming unit 12 generates image data having a format corresponding to the first output process, Copy, by reading the document. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the image forming unit 12 generates color image data with a resolution of 600 dpi (hereinafter referred to as "first image data"). The processor 20 stores the first image data in the memory 18.

[0109] The processor 20 executes Copy, which is the first output process, to output the first image data stored in the memory 18. Specifically, an image based on the first image data is printed on a recording medium such as paper.

[0110] When the first output process, Copy, is completed, the processor 20 generates image data having a format corresponding to the second output process, ScanToUSB, based on the first image data stored in the memory 18. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the processor 20 generates color image data (hereinafter referred to as "second image data") with a resolution of 300 dpi based on color image data (i.e., the first image data) with a resolution of 600 dpi. The processor 20 stores the second image data in the memory 18. When the storage of the second image data in the memory 18 is completed, the processor 20 deletes the first image data from the memory 18.

[0111] Next, the processor 20 executes ScanToUSB, which is the second output process, to output the second image data stored in the memory 18. Specifically, the processor 20 stores the second image data in the USB memory 40.

[0112] When the second output process, ScanToUSB, is completed, the processor 20 generates image data having a format corresponding to the third output process, ScanToServer, based on the second image data stored in the memory 18. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the processor 20 generates grayscale image data (hereinafter referred to as "third image data") with a resolution of 300 dpi based on color image data (i.e., the second image data) with a resolution of 300 dpi. The processor 20 stores the third image data in the memory 18. When the storage of the third image data in the memory 18 is completed, the processor 20 deletes the second image data from the memory 18.

[0113] Next, the processor 20 executes ScanToServer, which is the third output process, to output the third image data stored in the memory 18. Specifically, the third image data is transmitted to a server. For example, when the server 34 is designated as the destination server, the processor 20 transmits the third image data to the server 34. For example, the third image data is stored in the server 34.

[0114] If there is no output process to be executed after the third output process, the processor 20 deletes the third image data stored in the memory 18. This ends the execution of the output processes.

[0115] When the document to be read includes a plurality of pages, the image data may be converted in units of output processing, or in units of pages.

[0116] In the above-mentioned first embodiment, the conversion, storage, output, and deletion of image data are performed in output processing units. That is, when the output of the first image data is completed by the first output processing, the second image data is generated and stored in the memory 18. When the storage of the second image data in the memory 18 is completed, the processor 20 deletes the first image data stored in the memory 18. This means that when the first output processing is completed and the generation and storage of the second image data output by the second output processing is completed, the first image data output by the first output processing is deleted. For example, when a document includes a plurality of pages, the processor 20 outputs the first image data representing the plurality of pages by the first output processing. When the first output processing is completed and the generation and storage of the second image data representing the plurality of pages is completed, the processor 20 deletes the first image data output by the first output processing (for example, the first image data representing the plurality of pages) from the memory 18.

[0117] As another example, the conversion, storage, output, and deletion of image data may be performed on a page-by-page basis. For example, the processor 20 generates first image data for the first output process (i.e., first image data representing the first page) for the first page, stores it in the memory 18, and outputs the first image data representing the first page by the first output process. When the output is completed, the processor 20 generates second image data for the second output process (i.e., second image data representing the first page) for the first page based on the first image data representing the first page. When the generation of the second image data for the first page is completed, the processor 20 deletes the first image data for the first page stored in the memory 18, and stores the second image data for the first page in the memory 18. Next, the processor 20 outputs the second image data for the first page by the second output process. Similarly, the conversion, storage, output, and deletion of image data are performed for each page for the third output process and the subsequent output processes. When the output of the first page by all output processes is completed, the processor 20 converts, stores, outputs and deletes the image data of the second page in the same manner as the first page.

[0118] By converting, storing, outputting, and deleting image data on a page basis, it is possible to avoid storing image data of unnecessary pages in the memory 18. Therefore, there is no need to secure memory capacity for storing image data.

[0119] The processor 20 may output the first image data of the first page by the first output process, and when the output is completed, output the first image data of the second page by the first output process. The same applies to the second and subsequent output processes.

[0120] Similarly, in the second and third embodiments described below, the conversion, storage, output and deletion of image data may be performed on an output processing unit basis, or the conversion, storage, output and deletion of image data may be performed on a page unit basis.

[0121] Example 2 A second embodiment will be described below. The order of execution of the output process will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 shows the settings of the output process according to the second embodiment. The "service" shown in Fig. 8 is the output process.

[0122] In the second embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, ScanToServer, ScanToUSB, and Copy are selected as the output processes to be executed.

[0123] The color mode of ScanToServer is color. The resolution of ScanToServer is 300 dpi. In other words, the image data sent to the server by ScanToServer is color image data with a resolution of 300 dpi.

[0124] The color mode of ScanToUSB is color. The resolution of ScanToUSB is 300 dpi. In other words, the image data stored in the USB memory by ScanToUSB is color image data with a resolution of 300 dpi.

[0125] The color mode of Copy is color. The resolution of Copy is 600 dpi. In other words, the image data to be copied is color image data with a resolution of 600 dpi.

[0126] ScanToServer and ScanToUSB have the same color mode and the same resolution of image data. Therefore, the execution order of ScanToServer and ScanToUSB is not determined by the color mode and the resolution. In this case, the processor 20 determines the execution order of ScanToServer and ScanToUSB according to a preset priority order.

[0127] The preset priority order will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 shows a priority table. The priority table is a table that defines the priority order for determining the order of output processing. The data of the priority table is stored in advance in the memory 18. The "service" shown in Fig. 9 refers to output processing.

[0128] For example, the priority of Copy is first, the priority of ScanToUSB is second, the priority of ScanToServer is third, the priority of ScanToPC is fourth, and the priority of FAX is fifth.

[0129] For example, the priority of an output process that requires a user to operate or work on the image forming apparatus 10 is set higher than the priority of an output process that does not require such an operation. Specifically, when Copy is executed, the user usually needs to go to the image forming apparatus 10 to pick up the printed paper. Also, when ScanToUSB is executed, the user usually needs to remove the USB memory from the image forming apparatus 10. It is assumed that the user who instructed the execution of these output processes is waiting for the output process to end on the image forming apparatus 10. On the other hand, when ScanToServer, ScanToPC, and FAX are executed, it is not assumed that the user is usually waiting for the output process to end on the image forming apparatus 10. Therefore, in order to shorten the waiting time of the user who instructed the execution of Copy or ScanToUSB, the priority of Copy or ScanToUSB is set higher than the priority of other output processes.

[0130] Of course, the priorities shown in Fig. 9 are merely examples, and other priorities may be preset, or may be set by the user.

[0131] An example in which the user sets the priority order will now be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 shows a selection screen 42.

[0132] In the example shown in Fig. 10, an input field 56 is displayed on the selection screen 42. The input field 56 is a field in which the user sets the priority of each output process. The input field 56 includes an input box corresponding to each output process. The user inputs the priority in the input box.

[0133] For example, the priority of Copy is set to 1, the priority of ScanToUSB is set to 2, and the priority of ScanToServer is set to 3. Processor 20 determines the output order of each of a plurality of output processes having the same color mode and resolution according to the priorities set here.

[0134] 10 is an example of a user interface for the user to set the output processes and the priorities. Note that the priorities may be set on a screen other than the selection screen .

[0135] The process according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing the flow of the process according to the second embodiment.

[0136] First, the processor 20 determines the order of each output process based on the color mode of the image data output by each output process (S21).

[0137] When there are not a plurality of output processes with the same condition for the color mode (S22, there are no same conditions), the process of determining the output order is ended via step S24 (S24, there are no same conditions).

[0138] 8, the color modes of all the output processes are the same. Therefore, the processor 20 does not determine the output order in step S21. The process proceeds to step S23 (S22, there).

[0139] Next, the processor 20 determines the order of each output process based on the resolution of the image data output by each output process (S23).

[0140] 8, the resolution of Copy is 600 dpi, and the resolutions of ScanToUSB and ScanToServer are 300 dpi. Therefore, the processor 20 determines Copy as the first output process. Since the resolutions of ScanToUSB and ScanToServer are the same, the order of ScanToUSB and ScanToServer is not determined at this stage.

[0141] If there are not a plurality of output processes with the same resolution conditions (S24, no identical conditions), the process of determining the output order ends.

[0142] If there are a plurality of output processes with the same resolution conditions (S24, YES), the processor 20 uses the priority table to determine the order of each of the output processes whose order has not been determined (S25).

[0143] In the example shown in FIG. 8, since the resolutions of ScanToUSB and ScanToServer are the same, the processor 20 determines the order of ScanToUSB and ScanToServer according to the priority table.

[0144] 9, the priority of ScanToUSB is second, and the priority of ScanToServer is third. Therefore, the processor 20 determines ScanToUSB as the second output process, and determines ScanToServer as the third output process.

[0145] As a result of the above, the processor 20 determines Copy as the first output process, ScanToUSB as the second output process, and ScanToServer as the third output process. The processor 20 executes each output process in this order.

[0146] When the order of each output process is determined, the document is read and each output process is executed according to the above order, as in the first embodiment. That is, Copy is executed for the first image data, and when Copy is completed, the second image data is generated based on the first image data. ScanToUSB is executed for the second image data.

[0147] In the second embodiment, the format of the image data output by the second output process, ScanToUSB (hereinafter referred to as "second image data"), is the same as the format of the image data output by the third output process, ScanToServer (hereinafter referred to as "third image data"), i.e., the color mode of the second image data is the same as the color mode of the third image data, and the resolution of the second image data is the same as the resolution of the third image data.

[0148] In this case, the processor 20 does not generate a separate third image data from the second image data. The processor 20 executes ScanToServer using the second image data stored in the memory 18 (i.e., image data to be the target of ScanToUSB) as the third image data. That is, the processor 20 reuses the second image data as the third image data. When ScanToUSB ends, the processor 20 executes ScanToServer without deleting the second image data from the memory 18, thereby transmitting the second image data to the destination server as the third image data. In this way, conversion for separately generating the third image data is not required. When ScanToServer ends, the processor 20 deletes the second image data from the memory 18.

[0149] The above-mentioned priority order may be set each time image data is output by an output process. For example, each time the Multi Job Flow function is executed, the priority order of each output process is set by the user on the selection screen 42 shown in Fig. 10. Each time the Multi Job Flow function is executed, the same priority order may be set, or different priority orders may be set.

[0150] Example 3 Hereinafter, a third embodiment will be described. In the third embodiment, similarly to the first and second embodiments, the processor 20 first determines the order of the output processes based on the color mode, and then determines the order of the output processes based on the resolution. In such a determination method, it may not be possible to generate image data to be output by the next output process based on image data to be output by the earlier output process. For example, it may not be possible to generate image data to be output by the third output process based on image data to be output by the second output process. In the third embodiment, a process to deal with this is executed.

[0151] In the third embodiment, at least the first output process, the second output process, and the third output process are executed. In this case, if the image data output by the third output process (hereinafter referred to as "third image data" in the third embodiment) cannot be generated by the image data output by the second output process (hereinafter referred to as "second image data" in the third embodiment), the processor 20 generates the third image data based on the image data output by the first output process (hereinafter referred to as "first image data" in the third embodiment). That is, the processor 20 generates the third image data by converting the format of the first image data. Note that, similar to the first and second embodiments, the processor 20 generates the second image data based on the first image data.

[0152] For example, the second image data may be color image data, the third image data may not be color image data, and the resolution of the second image data may be lower than the resolution of the third image data. In this case, the processor 20 generates the second image data and the third image data based on the first image data.

[0153] When the order of output processes is determined based on the color mode, the order of output processes that output color image data precedes the order of output processes that output grayscale image data. Therefore, an output process that outputs low-resolution color image data may be set as the second output process, and a process that outputs high-resolution grayscale image data may be set as the third output process. In this case, if the first image data output by the first output process is an output process that outputs high-resolution color image data, the processor 20 generates the second image data and the third image data based on the first image data.

[0154] Hereinafter, a specific example will be described with reference to Example 3. Fig. 12 shows settings for output processing according to Example 3. The "service" shown in Fig. 12 refers to output processing.

[0155] In the third embodiment, similarly to the first and second embodiments, ScanToServer, ScanToUSB, and Copy are selected as the output processes to be executed.

[0156] The color mode of ScanToServer is grayscale. The resolution of ScanToServer is 300 dpi. In other words, the image data sent to the server by ScanToServer is grayscale image data with a resolution of 300 dpi.

[0157] The color mode of ScanToUSB is color. The resolution of ScanToUSB is 200 dpi. In other words, the image data stored in the USB memory by ScanToUSB is color image data with a resolution of 200 dpi.

[0158] The color mode of Copy is color. The resolution of Copy is 600 dpi. In other words, the image data to be copied is color image data with a resolution of 600 dpi.

[0159] As in the first and second embodiments, the processor 20 first determines the output order based on the color mode.

[0160] Since the color mode of ScanToServer is grayscale, the processor 20 determines ScanToServer as the third output process.

[0161] The color modes of ScanToUSB and Copy are the same, that is, color. Therefore, the order of ScanToUSB and Copy is not determined by the color mode alone.

[0162] Next, the processor 20 determines the order of each of ScanToUSB and Copy based on the resolution. The resolution of Copy is higher than the resolution of ScanToUSB. Therefore, the processor 20 determines Copy as the first output process and ScanToUSB as the second output process.

[0163] As a result of the above, the processor 20 determines Copy as the first output process, ScanToUSB as the second output process, and ScanToServer as the third output process.

[0164] The resolution of the second output process, ScanToUSB, is 200 dpi, and the resolution of the third output process, ScanToServer, is 300 dpi. The resolution of ScanToServer is higher than that of ScanToUSB. High-resolution image data cannot be generated based on low-resolution image data. Therefore, the third image data output by the third output process cannot be generated based on the second image data output by the second output process.

[0165] To deal with this, in the third embodiment, the processor 20 generates third image data to be output by the third output process when the process related to ScanToUSB, which is the second output process, is executed. That is, the processor 20 generates the third image data from the first image data to be output by the first output process. Before the output process is executed, the processor 20 stores in the memory 18 control information indicating that the third image data needs to be generated from the first image data.

[0166] When the order of each output process is determined, the document is read and each output process is executed according to the above order, as in the first and second embodiments. That is, copy is executed for the first color image data with a resolution of 600 dpi.

[0167] When the copy is completed, the processor 20 generates second image data based on the first image data and stores the second image data in the memory 18. The processor 20 determines whether or not it is necessary to generate third image data from the first image data by referring to the control information stored in the memory 18. If it is necessary to generate third image data from the first image data, the processor 20 generates third image data based on the first image data and stores the third image data in the memory 18. When the second image data and the third image data are stored in the memory 18, the processor 20 deletes the first image data from the memory 18.

[0168] To explain this with a specific example, the processor 20 generates second color image data with a resolution of 200 dpi by converting the format of first color image data with a resolution of 600 dpi, and stores the second image data in the memory 18. The processor 20 stores the second image data in the USB memory by executing ScanToUSB, which is the second output process. When storing the second image data in the USB memory is completed, the processor 20 deletes the second image data from the memory 18.

[0169] The processor 20 also converts the format of the first image data, which is color and has a resolution of 600 dpi, to generate third image data, which is grayscale and has a resolution of 300 dpi, and stores the third image data in the memory 18. The processor 20 executes the third output process, ScanToServer, to transmit the third image data to the destination server. When the transmission of the third image data to the server is completed, the processor 20 deletes the third image data from the memory 18.

[0170] In the above-described first to third embodiments, when color image data is output, the processor 20 determines, as the first output process, an output process that outputs color image data with the highest resolution among a plurality of output processes. For example, Copy is determined as the first output process. In this case, the processor 20 reads the document using the image forming unit 12, and generates image data to be output by the first output process.

[0171] When color image data is not output, the processor 20 determines, as the first output process, the output process that outputs image data with the highest resolution among the multiple output processes.

[0172] By reading the document and generating image data to be output by the first output process, it is not necessary to generate image data that is not output.

[0173] As a comparative example, it is possible to generate original image data according to the maximum performance of the image forming apparatus 10 by reading a document, and generate image data to be output by each output process based on the original image data. For example, in the first to third embodiments, the maximum resolution of the output image data is 600 dpi. If the image forming apparatus 10 has the performance of generating image data with a resolution of 2400 dpi, even if the output process of outputting image data with a resolution of 2400 dpi is not performed, in the comparative example, image data with a resolution of 2400 dpi is generated as the original image data. Image data to be subjected to the output process is generated based on the original image data with a resolution of 2400 dpi. In the comparative example, since the original image data that is not the target of the output process is generated, unnecessary image data is generated. In addition, it is necessary to secure a capacity for storing the original image data in a memory. In contrast, in the first to third embodiments, since the unnecessary original image data is not generated, the load for the generation is not generated on the image forming apparatus 10. In addition, it is not necessary to secure a memory capacity for storing the unnecessary original image data.

[0174] In the above-mentioned first to third embodiments, image data is output to a plurality of different output destinations. For example, in Copy, an image based on the image data is formed on a recording medium such as paper, in ScanToUSB, the image data is stored in a USB memory, and in ScanToServer, the image data is transmitted to a server.

[0175] As another example, multiple pieces of image data having different formats may be output to the same output destination. For example, sending multiple pieces of image data having different formats to the same server is also included in the concept of multiple different output processes.

[0176] To explain this with a specific example, it is possible to transmit high-resolution image data as original image data to the server 34 by ScanToServer, and transmit low-resolution image data as data for an image log to the server 34 by ScanToServer. In this case, multiple pieces of image data with different resolutions are transmitted to the same server 34.

[0177] For example, ScanToServer, which transmits high-resolution image data to the server 34, is set as the output process that is to be performed first, and ScanToServer, which transmits low-resolution image data to the server 34, is set as the output process that is to be performed later. The processor 20 stores the high-resolution image data in the memory 18 and transmits the high-resolution image data to the server 34. When the transmission is completed, the processor 20 generates low-resolution image data by converting the high-resolution image data. The processor 20 stores the low-resolution image data in the memory 18 and deletes the high-resolution image data from the memory 18. Next, the processor 20 transmits the low-resolution image data to the server 34. When the transmission is completed, the processor 20 deletes the low-resolution image data from the memory 18.

[0178] If the memory capacity for storing image data is predicted to be insufficient while the document is being read, the processor 20 may stop the reading and execute each output process to output the image data that has already been generated. The processor 20 secures memory capacity for storing image data to be generated in the future by deleting the output image data from the memory. Once the capacity is secured, the processor 20 resumes reading the document.

[0179] In the above embodiment, image data to be subjected to output processing is generated by reading an original document with a scanner, but image data to be subjected to output processing may be generated by photographing an object such as an original document with a camera. In this case, as in the above embodiment, the processor 20 generates image data having a format corresponding to each output processing for each output processing, and executes each output processing according to the order determined based on the format of the image data.

[0180] Some of the functions of the image forming apparatus 10 may be realized by an apparatus other than the image forming apparatus 10. When some of the functions of the image forming apparatus 10 are realized by an apparatus other than the image forming apparatus 10, an information processing system may be configured by the image forming apparatus 10 and the other apparatus. In other words, the functions of the image forming apparatus 10 may be realized by an information processing system configured by a single apparatus, or may be realized by an information processing system including multiple apparatuses.

[0181] Each function of the image forming apparatus 10 is realized, for example, by cooperation between hardware and software. For example, each function of the image forming apparatus 10 is realized by the processor 20 of the image forming apparatus 10 reading and executing a program stored in a memory. The program is stored in the memory via a recording medium such as a CD or DVD, or via a communication path such as a network. Similarly, each function of the image forming apparatus 10 is realized by the processor 20 of the image forming apparatus 10 reading and executing a program stored in the memory. The program is stored in the memory via a recording medium such as a CD or DVD, or via a communication path such as a network.

[0182] In each of the above embodiments, the term "processor" refers to a processor in a broad sense, and includes general-purpose processors (e.g., CPU: Central Processing Unit, etc.) and dedicated processors (e.g., GPU: Graphics Processing Unit, ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit, FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array, programmable logic device, etc.). Furthermore, the operation of the processor in each of the above embodiments may not only be performed by one processor, but may also be performed by multiple processors located at physically separate locations working together. Furthermore, the order of each operation of the processor is not limited to the order described in each of the above embodiments, and may be changed as appropriate.

[0183] (Additional Note) (((1))) A processor; Memory, having The processor, When image data generated by reading a document is output by each of a plurality of different output processes, an order of outputting the image data by each output process is determined based on a format of the image data output by each output process; storing in the memory first image data to be output by a first output process that is an earlier output process among the plurality of different output processes; outputting the first image data by the first output process; generating second image data to be output by a second output process that is to be output later based on the first image data; storing the second image data in the memory and deleting the first image data from the memory; outputting the second image data by the second output process; Information processing system. (((2))) The processor, The order of output is determined based on whether the image data to be output is color image data or not; When the first image data is color image data and the second image data is not color image data, the second image data is generated based on the first image data, and the output is performed by the second output process after the output by the first output process. An information processing system according to (((1))). (((3))) The processor, When the first image data and the second image data are color image data, an order of output by the first output process and an order of output by the second output process are determined based on a resolution of each of the first image data and the second image data; When a resolution of the first image data is higher than a resolution of the second image data, the second image data is generated based on the first image data, and output by the second output process is performed after output by the first output process. The information processing system according to (((2))). (((4))) The processor, when the resolution of the first image data and the resolution of the second image data are the same, determining that the output by the first output process is to be output prior to the output by the second output process in accordance with a preset priority order; The information processing system according to (((3))). (((5))) the priority order is set every time image data is output by the plurality of different output processes; The information processing system according to (((4))). (((6))) The processor, displaying on a display a user interface for allowing a user to set the plurality of different output processes and the priority order; The information processing system according to (((4))). (((7))) The processor, In a case where third image data is output by a third output process after the output by the second output process, if the third image data cannot be generated by the second image data, the second image data and the third image data are generated based on the first image data. 1. An information processing system according to any one of ((1))) to (((6))). (((8))) The processor, generating the second image data and the third image data based on the first image data when the second image data is color image data, the third image data is not color image data, and the resolution of the second image data is lower than the resolution of the third image data; An information processing system according to (((7))). (((9))) The processor, When color image data is output, an output process that outputs color image data having the highest resolution among the plurality of different output processes is set as a first output process that outputs image data first among the plurality of different output processes; If color image data is not output, an output process that outputs image data having the highest resolution among the plurality of different output processes is set as the first output process; generating image data to be output by the first output process by reading the document; 13. An information processing system according to any one of ((1))) to (((8))). (((10))) A computer having a memory, When image data generated by reading a document is output by each of a plurality of different output processes, an order of outputting the image data by each output process is determined based on a format of the image data output by each output process; storing in the memory first image data to be output by a first output process that is an earlier output process among the plurality of different output processes; outputting the first image data by the first output process; generating second image data to be output by a second output process that is to be output later based on the first image data; storing the second image data in the memory and deleting the first image data from the memory; outputting the second image data by the second output process; A program that makes it work. According to the information processing system of (((1))) and the program of (((10))), when multiple image data having formats different from one another depending on the output process are output by multiple different output processes, even if the system that outputs the image data does not have memory for storing all of the multiple image data, it is possible to realize the output of image data by multiple different output processes. According to the information processing system of (((2))), when multiple image data including color image data are to be output, each of the multiple image data can be generated and output. According to the information processing system of (((3))), when a plurality of image data having different resolutions are to be output, the plurality of image data can be generated and output. According to the information processing system of (((4))), when a plurality of output processes output color image data with the same resolution, the order of output can be determined and each image data can be output. According to the information processing system of (((5))), each time image data is output, the output order can be determined and each image data can be output. According to the information processing system of (((6))), the user can determine the output processes and the order of the outputs. According to the information processing system relating to (((7))) and (((8))), even if it is not possible to generate the third image data based on the second image data, it is possible to generate and output the third image data. According to the information processing system of (((9))), it is not necessary to generate image data that does not need to be generated. [Explanation of symbols]

[0184] 10 image forming device, 12 image forming section, 18 memory, 20 processor.

Claims

1. A processor; Memory, having The processor, When image data generated by reading a document is output by each of a plurality of different output processes, an order of outputting the image data by each output process is determined based on a format of the image data output by each output process; storing in the memory first image data to be output by a first output process that is output first among the plurality of different output processes; outputting the first image data by the first output processing; generating second image data to be output by a second output process that is to be output later based on the first image data; storing the second image data in the memory and deleting the first image data from the memory; outputting the second image data by the second output process; Information processing system.

2. The processor, The order of output is determined based on whether the image data to be output is color image data or not; When the first image data is color image data and the second image data is not color image data, the second image data is generated based on the first image data, and the output is performed by the second output process after the output by the first output process. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

3. The processor, When the first image data and the second image data are color image data, an order of output by the first output process and an order of output by the second output process are determined based on a resolution of each of the first image data and the second image data; When a resolution of the first image data is higher than a resolution of the second image data, the second image data is generated based on the first image data, and output by the second output process is performed after output by the first output process. The information processing system according to claim 2 .

4. The processor, when a resolution of the first image data and a resolution of the second image data are the same, determining that the output by the first output process is to be output prior to the output by the second output process in accordance with a preset priority order; The information processing system according to claim 3 .

5. the priority order is set every time image data is output by the plurality of different output processes; 5. The information processing system according to claim 4.

6. The processor, displaying on a display a user interface for allowing a user to set the plurality of different output processes and the priority order; 5. The information processing system according to claim 4.

7. The processor, In a case where third image data is output by a third output process after the output by the second output process, if the third image data cannot be generated by the second image data, the second image data and the third image data are generated based on the first image data. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

8. The processor, generating the second image data and the third image data based on the first image data when the second image data is color image data, the third image data is not color image data, and a resolution of the second image data is lower than a resolution of the third image data; The information processing system according to claim 7.

9. The processor, When color image data is to be output, an output process for outputting color image data having the highest resolution among the plurality of different output processes is set as a first output process for outputting image data first among the plurality of different output processes; If color image data is not output, an output process that outputs image data having the highest resolution among the plurality of different output processes is set as the first output process; generating image data to be output by the first output process by reading the document; The information processing system according to claim 1 .

10. A computer having a memory, When image data generated by reading a document is output by each of a plurality of different output processes, an order of outputting the image data by each output process is determined based on a format of the image data output by each output process; storing in the memory first image data to be output by a first output process that is output first among the plurality of different output processes; outputting the first image data by the first output processing; generating second image data to be output by a second output process that is to be output later based on the first image data; storing the second image data in the memory and deleting the first image data from the memory; outputting the second image data by the second output process; A program that makes it work.

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