Image processing device

Abstract

To provide a technique for appropriately notifying a user of a trial mode associated with a special function in an image processing device equipped with the special function that includes setting that can be switched between enabled and disabled states.SOLUTION: An MFP 1 includes function programs 22 to 24 for additional functions and stores function switches 25 to 27 that indicate whether the additional functions are enabled or disabled. When an enabling instruction to enable the additional function is received, a CPU 11 changes the function switch to the enabled state, thereby enabling use of the additional function. Upon receiving an instruction to start a trial mode, the CPU enables the use of the additional function even if the function switch is in the disabled state when the trial mode is within the enabled period. Furthermore, the CPU 11, unless being in a state where consumable information should be displayed when displaying a home screen during the enabled period of the trial mode, displays trial mode information indicating that the trial mode is within the enabled period in a notification area, and displays the consumable information if being in a state where the consumable information should be displayed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technical field disclosed in this specification relates to an image processing apparatus equipped with a special function having a setting that can be switched between valid and invalid.

Background Art

[0002] Some image processing apparatuses are equipped with a special function (solution -tion) having a setting that can be switched between valid and invalid. The special function is set to be invalid at the time of factory shipment of the image processing apparatus. After that, for example, when a user who has purchased the image processing apparatus concludes a contract to use the special function with the seller of the image processing apparatus, a command to enable the special function is input to the image processing apparatus by the seller of the image processing apparatus, and thus processing based on the special function becomes executable. As a document disclosing the technology related to an image processing apparatus equipped with such a special function, for example, there is Patent Document 1.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Some users have a desire to try the special function before concluding a contract to use it. Therefore, it is conceivable to set a trial mode in the image processing apparatus to make the special function temporarily available. During the valid period of this trial mode, the trial mode ​​​​It is desirable to notify the user that it is set. However, the user interface of the image processing device has a limit on the amount of information that can be notified at one time, and it is also necessary to give notifications in addition to the trial mode. Patent Document 1 does not disclose a technique for causing a special function to be tried, and there is room for improvement. The user interface of the image processing device has a limit on the amount of information that can be notified at one time, and it is also necessary to give notifications in addition to the trial mode. Patent Document 1 does not disclose a technique for causing a special function to be tried, and there is room for improvement. There is room for improvement.

[0005] This specification discloses a technique for appropriately notifying a trial mode for a special function in an image processing device equipped with a special function having a setting that can be switched between valid and invalid. In an image processing device equipped with a special function having a setting that can be switched between valid and invalid, a technique for appropriately notifying a trial mode for the special function is disclosed. Disclosed.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0006] An image processing device made for the purpose of solving this problem is an image processing device including an image processing unit, a user interface, a memory, and a computer, wherein the image processing device has a plurality of functions including a special function, and the memory stores function information indicating whether to enable or disable the special function. The function information indicates the disablement of the special function at the time of factory shipment of the image processing device. When the computer receives a valid instruction to enable the special function, the computer changes the function information stored in the memory to information indicating the enablement of the special function to make the special function available. Further, when the computer receives a start instruction to start a trial mode, the computer executes a start process to start the trial mode, so that even if the function information indicates the disablement of the special function, the special function is made available within the valid period of the trial mode. After starting the trial mode, based on the fact that the valid period of the trial mode has expired. An image processing device including an image processing unit, a user interface, a memory, and a computer, wherein the image processing device has a plurality of functions including a special function, and the memory stores function information indicating whether to enable or disable the special function. The function information indicates the disablement of the special function at the time of factory shipment of the image processing device. When the computer receives a valid instruction to enable the special function, the computer changes the function information stored in the memory to information indicating the enablement of the special function to make the special function available. Further, when the computer receives a start instruction to start a trial mode, the computer executes a start process to start the trial mode, so that even if the function information indicates the disablement of the special function, the special function is made available within the valid period of the trial mode. After starting the trial mode, based on the fact that the valid period of the trial mode has expired. The image processing device has a plurality of functions including a special function, and the memory stores function information indicating whether to enable or disable the special function. The function information indicates the disablement of the special function at the time of factory shipment of the image processing device. When the computer receives a valid instruction to enable the special function, the computer changes the function information stored in the memory to information indicating the enablement of the special function to make the special function available. Further, when the computer receives a start instruction to start a trial mode, the computer executes a start process to start the trial mode, so that even if the function information indicates the disablement of the special function, the special function is made available within the valid period of the trial mode. After starting the trial mode, based on the fact that the valid period of the trial mode has expired. The memory stores function information indicating whether to enable or disable the special function. The function information indicates the disablement of the special function at the time of factory shipment of the image processing device. When the computer receives a valid instruction to enable the special function, the computer changes the function information stored in the memory to information indicating the enablement of the special function to make the special function available. Further, when the computer receives a start instruction to start a trial mode, the computer executes a start process to start the trial mode, so that even if the function information indicates the disablement of the special function, the special function is made available within the valid period of the trial mode. After starting the trial mode, based on the fact that the valid period of the trial mode has expired. The function information indicates the disablement of the special function at the time of factory shipment of the image processing device. When the computer receives a valid instruction to enable the special function, the computer changes the function information stored in the memory to information indicating the enablement of the special function to make the special function available. Further, when the computer receives a start instruction to start a trial mode, the computer executes a start process to start the trial mode, so that even if the function information indicates the disablement of the special function, the special function is made available within the valid period of the trial mode. After starting the trial mode, based on the fact that the valid period of the trial mode has expired. When the computer receives a valid instruction to enable the special function, the computer changes the function information stored in the memory to information indicating the enablement of the special function to make the special function available. Further, when the computer receives a start instruction to start a trial mode, the computer executes a start process to start the trial mode, so that even if the function information indicates the disablement of the special function, the special function is made available within the valid period of the trial mode. After starting the trial mode, based on the fact that the valid period of the trial mode has expired. The computer changes the function information stored in the memory to information indicating the enablement of the special function to make the special function available. Further, when the computer receives a start instruction to start a trial mode, the computer executes a start process to start the trial mode, so that even if the function information indicates the disablement of the special function, the special function is made available within the valid period of the trial mode. After starting the trial mode, based on the fact that the valid period of the trial mode has expired. Further, when the computer receives a start instruction to start a trial mode, the computer executes a start process to start the trial mode, so that even if the function information indicates the disablement of the special function, the special function is made available within the valid period of the trial mode. After starting the trial mode, based on the fact that the valid period of the trial mode has expired. When the computer receives a start instruction to start a trial mode, the computer executes a start process to start the trial mode, so that even if the function information indicates the disablement of the special function, the special function is made available within the valid period of the trial mode. After starting the trial mode, based on the fact that the valid period of the trial mode has expired. Even if the function information indicates the disablement of the special function, the special function is made available within the valid period of the trial mode. After starting the trial mode, based on the fact that the valid period of the trial mode has expired. The special function is made available within the valid period of the trial mode. After starting the trial mode, based on the fact that the valid period of the trial mode has expired. End the trial mode, and further, the computer can display a standby screen on the user interface and the standby screen includes an operator corresponding to a display instruction for settings or information regarding each function and a notification area for displaying notification information. The notification information has a plurality of types, and the plurality of types of notification information includes trial mode information indicating that the trial mode is within the valid period. Each notification information has a display priority set and further, the computer performs a display process of displaying the notification information in the notification area. In the display process, at a first timing when the trial mode is within the valid period, if the state of the image processing apparatus is not a state where high-priority information with a higher priority than the trial mode information should be displayed, the trial mode information is displayed in the notification area and if the state of the image processing apparatus is a state where the high-priority information should be displayed, the high-priority information is displayed in the notification area and the trial mode information is not displayed in the notification area. This is characterized. According to the technology disclosed in this specification, in an image processing apparatus that displays a plurality of types of notification information in a notification area, at a first timing when the trial mode is within the valid period, if the state where high-priority information should be displayed does not exist, the trial mode information is displayed in the notification area. Thereby, the user can grasp that the trial mode is set in the image processing apparatus and a special function is temporarily available. On the other hand, if the state where high-priority information should be displayed exists, the high-priority information is displayed in the notification area and the trial mode information is not displayed. Thereby, the trial mode information does not interfere with the notification of high-priority information, and the user can, even within the valid period of the trial mode, receive high-priority information.

[0007] According to the technology disclosed in this specification, in an image processing apparatus that displays a plurality of types of notification information in a notification area, at a first timing when the trial mode is within the valid period, if the state where high-priority information should be displayed does not exist, the trial mode information is displayed in the notification area. Thereby, the user can grasp that the trial mode is set in the image processing apparatus and a special function is temporarily available. On the other hand, if the state where high-priority information should be displayed exists, the high-priority information is displayed in the notification area and the trial mode information is not displayed. Thereby, the trial mode information does not interfere with the notification of high-priority information, and the user can, even within the valid period of the trial mode, receive high-priority information. If the state where high-priority information should be displayed exists, high-priority information is displayed in the notification area and trial mode information is not displayed. Thereby, the trial mode information does not interfere with the notification of high-priority information, and the user can, even within the valid period of the trial mode, receive high-priority The prior information can be grasped.

[0008] An image processing system, a control method, a computer for realizing the functions of the above image processing apparatus A program, and a computer-readable storage medium storing the program are also novel and useful.

Effects of the Invention

[0009] According to the technology disclosed in this specification, in an image processing apparatus equipped with a special function having a setting that can be switched between valid and invalid, a technique for performing a suitable notification regarding a trial mode for the special function is realized.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, a multifunction peripheral (hereinafter referred to as "MFP") according to an embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. while referring.

[0012] The MFP1 of this embodiment is a device capable of executing various image processing functions such as printing and scanning. There is. The MFP1 is an example of an image processing apparatus. As shown in FIG. 1, the MFP1 of this embodiment includes a controller 10 including a CPU 11 and a memory 12. The CPU 11 is an example of a computer. Further, the MFP1 includes a user interface (hereinafter referred to as "user IF") 13, a communication interface (hereinafter referred to as "communication IF") 14, and printing engine 15 and a scanner 16, and these are electrically connected to the controller 10. The printing engine 15 and the scanner 16 are both examples of an image processing unit.

[0013] The CPU 11 executes various processes according to the program read from the memory 12 and also based on the user's operations. As shown in FIG. 1, the basic program is stored in the memory 12. based on, various processes are executed. In the memory 12, as shown in FIG. 1, the basic program 21, a plurality of function programs 22 to 24, a plurality of function switches 25 to 27, and a trial switch 28, etc., and various programs and various information are stored. The memory 12 is also used as a work area when various processes are executed. The buffer provided by the CPU 11 is also an example of a memory.

[0014] The MFP 1 of this embodiment has a touch panel 1 31 having a screen display function and an operation reception function, a return key 132, a home key 133, and a stop key 134, and includes a user IF 13. The return key 132, the home key 133, and the stop key 134 are hardware keys. The user IF 13 may further include other hardware keys, LED lamps, speakers, etc. The display content displayed on the touch panel 131 will be described later.

[0015] The communication IF 14 includes at least a configuration connectable to the Internet 200 and includes hardware for communicating with an external device . The communication standard of the communication IF 14 is Ethernet (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), USB, etc. The MFP 1 may be provided with a plurality of communication IFs 14 corresponding to a plurality of communication standards.

[0016] The printing engine 15 includes a configuration for printing an image based on image data on a printing medium such as a sheet . The image forming method of the printing engine 15 is, for example, an electrophotographic method or an inkjet method . The scanner 16 includes a configuration for reading an image of a document and acquiring image data.

[0017] The MFP 1 of this embodiment executes the basic program 21 and the function programs 22 to 24 ​​​It is possible to execute various functions using the printing engine 15 and the scanner 16. The basic program The RAM 21 is a program that is set to be executable since the factory shipment of the MFP 1, and it is a program for causing the M FP 1 to execute the basic functions that are the basic functions. The basic functions include, for example, a copy function, a scan function, and a facsimile function.

[0018] On the other hand, the function programs 22 to 24 are programs for causing the MFP 1 to execute additional functions that are special functions that can be added. The MFP 1 of this embodiment has the function programs 22 to 24 incorporated therein at the time of factory shipment and is equipped with a plurality of additional functions. Corresponding function switches 25 to 27 are provided for the function programs 22 to 24, and depending on the states of the function switches 25 to 27, it is stored whether the additional functions by the corresponding function programs 22 to 24 are valid or invalid . For example, if the state of the function switch 25 is on, the M FP 1 can receive an instruction to execute the function by the function program 22 and can execute the function. If the state of the function switch 25 is off, the MFP 1 does not receive an instruction to execute the function . The function switches 25 to 27 are an example of function information. At the time of factory shipment of the MFP 1, all the function switches 25 to 27 are off, and all the additional functions are set to be invalid. Then, when receiving an instruction to activate the functions of the function programs 22 to 24 after factory shipment, the MFP 1 switches the function switches 25 to 27 to on so that the additional functions can be executed. By pre-installing the programs of the additional functions in the MFP 1 and making it possible to receive an activation instruction, added value can be added to the MFP 1

[0019] . When the MFP 1 is shipped from the factory, all the function switches 25 to 27 are off, and all the additional functions are set to be invalid. And when receiving an instruction to activate the functions of the function programs 22 to 24 after factory shipment, the MFP 1 switches the function switches 25 to 27 to on so that the additional functions can be executed. By pre-installing the programs of the additional functions in the MFP 1 and making it possible to receive an activation instruction, added value can be added to the MFP 1 . By pre-installing the programs of the additional functions in the MFP 1 and making it possible to receive an activation instruction, added value can be added to the MFP 1 . By pre-installing the programs of the additional functions in the MFP 1 and making it possible to receive an activation instruction, added value can be added to the MFP 1 (k) The procedure for adding additional functions is simplified. Also, by enabling only the functions necessary for the user of the MFP1, complication of functions can be prevented.

[0020] Note that in order for the user of the MFP1 to use the functions of the function programs 22 to 24, it is necessary to conclude a contract with a vendor or the like for each function to be used. For example, when the user concludes a contract with the vendor for using an additional function, an activation command for activating the function is provided from the vendor. When the provided activation command is input to the MFP1, the MFP1 turns on the switch corresponding to the activated function and becomes capable of receiving an execution instruction for the function.

[0021] Examples of additional functions that can be executed by the function programs 22 to 24 include a secure print function, a custom UI function, a barcode printing function, and a cloud storage function. The secure print function does not start printing immediately when image data is received, but instead temporarily stores the image data in the memory 12 and starts printing after successful authentication such as user authentication. The custom UI function is a function for changing the arrangement and display form of soft keys and the like displayed on the user IF13 according to the user's preference. The barcode printing function is a function for creating a barcode based on specified data and printing the created barcode. The cloud storage function is a function for reading an image of a document, acquiring the obtained image data, transmitting it via the communication IF14, and storing it in a storage area on the cloud. Note that the types of function programs installed in the MFP1 at the time of factory shipment are determined in advance for each model of the MFP1, but additional functions that can be installed after factory shipment may be provided.

[0022] ​​​​​​​​​​ The trial switch 28 sets the state of the trial mode for testing additional functions in the MFP1 of this embodiment. The trial mode makes all the function programs 22 to 24 stored in the memory 12 available for the functions for which the function switches 25 to 27 are off, within the valid period. Within the valid period of the trial mode, the user can test all additional functions regardless of whether the function programs 22 to 24 are enabled. Note that the trial mode of this embodiment can be accepted only once for each device. The states indicated by the trial switch 28 are "executing", "not executed", and "already executed". At the time of factory shipment of the MFP1, the trial switch 28 is in the "not executed" state. As shown in FIG. 1, the MFP1 of this embodiment can be connected to the Internet 200 via the communication IF14 and can be connected to the server 3 by using the Internet 200. The server 3 is managed by, for example, the vendor of the MFP1 and manages the execution status of the trial mode for each device such as the MFP1. As shown in FIG. 1, the server 3 of this embodiment includes a controller 30 including a CPU 31 and a memory 32, a communication IF 34.

[0023] Note that the controllers 10 and 30 in FIG. 1 are general terms for the hardware and software used for controlling the MFP1 and the server 3, and do not necessarily represent a single piece of hardware existing in the MFP1 and the server 3. The CPU 31 executes various processes according to the program read from the memory 32 and based on the operations of the operator. As shown in FIG. 1, the memory 32 stores an OS 41 and a trial...

[0024]

[0025] ​ including a line management program 42 and a trial database (hereinafter referred to as "trial DB") 43 and stores various programs and various data. The OS 41 is, for example, Wind ows (registered trademark), macOS (registered trademark), or Linux (registered trademark). The buffer provided in the CPU 31 is also an example of memory. The server 3 of this embodiment manages the trial of additional functions in each device such as the MFP 1 by executing the trial management program 42.

[0026] Note that examples of the memories 12 and 32 are not limited to ROM, RAM, HDD, etc. built in the MFP 1 or the server 3, and may be any storage medium readable and writable by the CPUs 11 and 31 . A computer-readable storage medium is a non-tran sitory medium. Non-transitory media include, in addition to the above examples, recording media such as CD-ROM and DVD-ROM. Also, non-transi tory media are also tangible media. On the other hand, an electrical signal that conveys a program downloaded from a server on the Internet or the like is a computer-readable signal medium, which is a type of computer-readable medium, but is not included in non-tr ansitory computer-readable storage media.

[0027] The communication IF 34 includes hardware for communicating with external devices such as the MFP 1 via the Internet 200 . The communication standard of the communication IF 34 is Ethernet (registered trademark), W i-Fi (registered trademark), etc. The server 3 may be provided with a plurality of communication IFs 14 corresponding to a plurality of communication standards .

[0028] ​ Next, with reference to a sequence diagram or the like, the procedures of each process related to the trial mode of MFP1 will be described. Note that the following processes basically represent the processes of CPUs 11 and 31 according to the instructions described in the program. That is, the processes such as "judgment", "extraction", "selection", "calculation", "decision", "specification", "acquisition", "reception", and "control" in the following description represent the processes of CPUs 11 and 31. The processes of each CPU include hardware control using the API of the OS. In this specification, the description of the OS is omitted and the operations of each program are described. That is, in the following description, the description to the effect that "Program B controls Hardware C" may refer to "Program B controls Hardware C using the API of the OS". In addition, the processes of CPUs 11 and 31 according to the instructions described in the program may be described in an abbreviated expression. For example, it may be described as "performed by CPU 11". In addition, the processes of CPUs 11 and 31 according to the instructions described in the program may be described in an abbreviated expression omitting the CPU, such as "performed by Program A". Note that "acquisition" is used as a concept that does not require a request. That is, the process of receiving data without the CPUs 11 and 31 requesting is also included in the concept of "the CPU acquires data". In addition, the "data" in this specification is represented by a bit string readable by a computer. Data with the same substantial meaning content but different formats is treated as the same data. The same applies to "information" in this specification.

[0029] In addition, "request" and "instruct" refer to information indicating what is being requested or what is being instructed. ​​​​​It is a concept that indicates outputting information shown to the other party. Also, information indicating what is requested or what is instructed is simply described as "request" or "instruction". Information indicating what is requested or what is instructed is simply described as "request" or "instruction".

[0030] Also, the process of the CPUs 11 and 31 determining whether information A indicates that matter B is the case is conceptually described as "determining whether matter B is the case from information A". There are cases where it is described like this. The process of the CPUs 11 and 31 determining whether information A indicates that matter B is the case or whether it indicates that matter C is the case is conceptually described as "determining whether matter B or matter C is the case from information A". First, regarding the start procedure for starting the trial mode in the MFP 1, it will be described with reference to the sequence diagram in FIG. 2. The user inputs a start instruction (A01) to start the trial mode at the user IF 13 of the MFP 1. Note that the user who inputs the start instruction for the trial mode at A01 is not limited to the user who uses the MFP 1. For example, it may be a service person or a salesperson in charge of after-sales service for the sold MFP. The MFP 1 receives the input of the start instruction, accesses the server 3, and transmits a request to start the trial mode (A02). The MFP 1 also transmits its own identification information and model information together with the start request at A02. The server 3 receives the request to start the trial mode and sets the validity period of the trial mode in the MFP 1 based on the date and time at that point (A03). Note that the length of the validity period may be the same for all devices, may depend on the model information, or may depend on the user of the device, the installation area, etc. There are cases where it is described like this.

[0031] First, regarding the start procedure for starting the trial mode in the MFP 1, it will be described with reference to the sequence diagram in FIG. 2. The user inputs a start instruction (A01) to start the trial mode at the user IF 13 of the MFP 1. Note that the user who inputs the start instruction for the trial mode at A01 is not limited to the user who uses the MFP 1. For example, it may be a service person or a salesperson in charge of after-sales service for the sold MFP. The MFP 1 receives the input of the start instruction, accesses the server 3, and transmits a request to start the trial mode (A02). The MFP 1 also transmits its own identification information and model information together with the start request at A02. The server 3 receives the request to start the trial mode and sets the validity period of the trial mode in the MFP 1 based on the date and time at that point (A03). Note that the length of the validity period may be the same for all devices, may depend on the model information, or may depend on the user of the device, the installation area, etc. The server 3 receives the request to start the trial mode and sets the validity period of the trial mode in the MFP 1 based on the date and time at that point (A03). Note that the length of the validity period may be the same for all devices, may depend on the model information, or may depend on the user of the device, the installation area, etc. The user who inputs the start instruction for the trial mode at A01 is not limited to the user who uses the MFP 1. For example, it may be a service person or a salesperson in charge of after-sales service for the sold MFP. The MFP 1 receives the input of the start instruction, accesses the server 3, and transmits a request to start the trial mode (A02). The MFP 1 also transmits its own identification information and model information together with the start request at A02. The server 3 receives the request to start the trial mode and sets the validity period of the trial mode in the MFP 1 based on the date and time at that point (A03). Note that the length of the validity period may be the same for all devices, may depend on the model information, or may depend on the user of the device, the installation area, etc.

[0032] The server 3 receives the request to start the trial mode and sets the validity period of the trial mode in the MFP 1 based on the date and time at that point (A03). Note that the length of the validity period may be the same for all devices, may depend on the model information, or may depend on the user of the device, the installation area, etc. Note that the length of the validity period may be the same for all devices, may depend on the model information, or may depend on the user of the device, the installation area, etc. Thus, they may be different. When the length of the validity period is determined according to the user of the device, the installation area, etc., the MFP1 adds information necessary for determining the validity period to the start request and transmits it. Also, the server 3 may accept the designation of the start date of the trial mode as a start request for the trial mode, and in that case, sets the validity period based on the designated start date. The server 3 associates the set validity period with the identification information of the device targeted by the trial mode and stores it in the trial DB43 of the memory 32 (A04). An example of the information stored in the trial DB43 is shown in FIG. 3. In the trial DB43, for example, for each sequential trial number, information such as device ID, model name, trial start date, and trial end date is stored in association. The device ID is identification information for distinguishing each device targeted by the trial mode, and is, for example, a MAC address or a serial number. The model name is information indicating the model of the device targeted by the trial mode. The trial start date is the date when the trial mode starts, and the trial end date is the date after a predetermined validity period from the trial start date. That is, the validity period of the trial mode in this device is the period from the trial start date to the trial end date. Also, the server 3 may accept the designation of the start date of the trial mode as a start request for the trial mode, and in that case, sets the validity period based on the designated start date. The server 3 associates the set validity period with the identification information of the device targeted by the trial mode and stores it in the trial DB43 of the memory 32 (A04). An example of the information stored in the trial DB43 is shown in FIG. 3. In the trial DB43, for example, for each sequential trial number, information such as device ID, model name, trial start date, and trial end date is stored in association. The device ID is identification information for distinguishing each device targeted by the trial mode, and is, for example, a MAC address or a serial number. The model name is information indicating the model of the device targeted by the trial mode. The trial start date is the date when the trial mode starts, and the trial end date is the date after a predetermined validity period from the trial start date. That is, the validity period of the trial mode in this device is the period from the trial start date to the trial end date.

[0033] The server 3 associates the set validity period with the identification information of the device targeted by the trial mode and stores it in the trial DB43 of the memory 32 (A04). An example of the information stored in the trial DB43 is shown in FIG. 3. In the trial DB43, for example, for each sequential trial number, information such as device ID, model name, trial start date, and trial end date is stored in association. The device ID is identification information for distinguishing each device targeted by the trial mode, and is, for example, a MAC address or a serial number. The model name is information indicating the model of the device targeted by the trial mode. The trial start date is the date when the trial mode starts, and the trial end date is the date after a predetermined validity period from the trial start date. That is, the validity period of the trial mode in this device is the period from the trial start date to the trial end date. The server 3 associates the set validity period with the identification information of the device targeted by the trial mode and stores it in the trial DB43 of the memory 32 (A04). An example of the information stored in the trial DB43 is shown in FIG. 3. In the trial DB43, for example, for each sequential trial number, information such as device ID, model name, trial start date, and trial end date is stored in association. The device ID is identification information for distinguishing each device targeted by the trial mode, and is, for example, a MAC address or a serial number. The model name is information indicating the model of the device targeted by the trial mode. The trial start date is the date when the trial mode starts, and the trial end date is the date after a predetermined validity period from the trial start date. That is, the validity period of the trial mode in this device is the period from the trial start date to the trial end date. An example of the information stored in the trial DB43 is shown in FIG. 3. In the trial DB43, for example, for each sequential trial number, information such as device ID, model name, trial start date, and trial end date is stored in association. The device ID is identification information for distinguishing each device targeted by the trial mode, and is, for example, a MAC address or a serial number. The model name is information indicating the model of the device targeted by the trial mode. The trial start date is the date when the trial mode starts, and the trial end date is the date after a predetermined validity period from the trial start date. That is, the validity period of the trial mode in this device is the period from the trial start date to the trial end date. An example of the information stored in the trial DB43 is shown in FIG. 3. In the trial DB43, for example, for each sequential trial number, information such as device ID, model name, trial start date, and trial end date is stored in association. The device ID is identification information for distinguishing each device targeted by the trial mode, and is, for example, a MAC address or a serial number. The model name is information indicating the model of the device targeted by the trial mode. The trial start date is the date when the trial mode starts, and the trial end date is the date after a predetermined validity period from the trial start date. That is, the validity period of the trial mode in this device is the period from the trial start date to the trial end date. An example of the information stored in the trial DB43 is shown in FIG. 3. In the trial DB43, for example, for each sequential trial number, information such as device ID, model name, trial start date, and trial end date is stored in association. The device ID is identification information for distinguishing each device targeted by the trial mode, and is, for example, a MAC address or a serial number. The model name is information indicating the model of the device targeted by the trial mode. The trial start date is the date when the trial mode starts, and the trial end date is the date after a predetermined validity period from the trial start date. That is, the validity period of the trial mode in this device is the period from the trial start date to the trial end date. An example of the information stored in the trial DB43 is shown in FIG. 3. In the trial DB43, for example, for each sequential trial number, information such as device ID, model name, trial start date, and trial end date is stored in association. The device ID is identification information for distinguishing each device targeted by the trial mode, and is, for example, a MAC address or a serial number. The model name is information indicating the model of the device targeted by the trial mode. The trial start date is the date when the trial mode starts, and the trial end date is the date after a predetermined validity period from the trial start date. That is, the validity period of the trial mode in this device is the period from the trial start date to the trial end date. An example of the information stored in the trial DB43 is shown in FIG. 3. In the trial DB43, for example, for each sequential trial number, information such as device ID, model name, trial start date, and trial end date is stored in association. The device ID is identification information for distinguishing each device targeted by the trial mode, and is, for example, a MAC address or a serial number. The model name is information indicating the model of the device targeted by the trial mode. The trial start date is the date when the trial mode starts, and the trial end date is the date after a predetermined validity period from the trial start date. That is, the validity period of the trial mode in this device is the period from the trial start date to the trial end date. An example of the information stored in the trial DB43 is shown in FIG. 3. In the trial DB43, for example, for each sequential trial number, information such as device ID, model name, trial start date, and trial end date is stored in association. The device ID is identification information for distinguishing each device targeted by the trial mode, and is, for example, a MAC address or a serial number. The model name is information indicating the model of the device targeted by the trial mode. The trial start date is the date when the trial mode starts, and the trial end date is the date after a predetermined validity period from the trial start date. That is, the validity period of the trial mode in this device is the period from the trial start date to the trial end date. That is, the validity period of the trial mode in this device is the period from the trial start date to the trial end date.

[0034] The server 3 adds a new record to the trial DB43 and stores the information of the MFP1 at A04. Further, the server 3 transmits a start command, which is a command for starting the trial mode, to the MFP1, which is the transmission source of the start request (A05). The start command is a command including an instruction to set the trial switch 28 of the MFP1 to "in execution". The start command may include the identification information of the MFP1, which is the device for executing the trial. The server 3 adds a new record to the trial DB43 and stores the information of the MFP1 at A04. Further, the server 3 transmits a start command, which is a command for starting the trial mode, to the MFP1, which is the transmission source of the start request (A05). The start command is a command including an instruction to set the trial switch 28 of the MFP1 to "in execution". The start command may include the identification information of the MFP1, which is the device for executing the trial. The server 3 adds a new record to the trial DB43 and stores the information of the MFP1 at A04. Further, the server 3 transmits a start command, which is a command for starting the trial mode, to the MFP1, which is the transmission source of the start request (A05). The start command is a command including an instruction to set the trial switch 28 of the MFP1 to "in execution". The start command may include the identification information of the MFP1, which is the device for executing the trial. The server 3 adds a new record to the trial DB43 and stores the information of the MFP1 at A04. Further, the server 3 transmits a start command, which is a command for starting the trial mode, to the MFP1, which is the transmission source of the start request (A05). The start command is a command including an instruction to set the trial switch 28 of the MFP1 to "in execution". The start command may include the identification information of the MFP1, which is the device for executing the trial. The server 3 adds a new record to the trial DB43 and stores the information of the MFP1 at A04. Further, the server 3 transmits a start command, which is a command for starting the trial mode, to the MFP1, which is the transmission source of the start request (A05). The start command is a command including an instruction to set the trial switch 28 of the MFP1 to "in execution". The start command may include the identification information of the MFP1, which is the device for executing the trial. When P1 receives the start command, it sets the trial switch 28 to "in execution" (A0 6), and enters the trial mode. A02 and A06 are an example of the start process. As a result, as described above, the user of the MFP1 can try the additional functions provided by the function programs 22-24.

[0035] Note that the MFP1 executes A06 when the state of the trial switch 28 is "not executed". If the MFP1 has already entered the trial mode and executed, as will be described later, the state of the trial switch 28 is "executed". In that case, the MFP1 does not accept the instruction of A01, or even if it accepts, it does not send a start request to the server 3.

[0036] Instead of sending the start request for the trial mode of A02 from the MFP1, it is also possible to send it using a dedicated application program (hereinafter referred to as "dedicated app") incorporated in other devices such as a personal computer or a smartphone. In that case, the device that executes the dedicated app sends a start request including the information of the MFP1 to the server 3, receives a start command including the information of the MFP1 from the server 3, and sends the received start command to the MFP1. Alternatively, the dedicated app may display the received start command, and the person in charge who uses the dedicated app may input the displayed start command into the MFP1.

[0037] The MFP1 of this embodiment displays the home screen 50 as shown in FIG. 4 on the user IF13 as a screen waiting for the user's operation. The home screen 50 waits for the user's operation after the MFP1 is started, after the job is completed, or when returning from the power saving mode. ​​​​​​​​​​​​, it is displayed on the entire touch panel 131. Prior to the display of the home screen 50, the MFP1 checks whether the trial switch 28 is "in execution" or whether the function switches 25 to 27 are on (A10). Based on the states of the respective switches confirmed in A10, the MFP1 determines the display content of the home screen 50 and displays the determined home screen 50 on the user IF13 (A11). The home screen 50 is an example of a standby screen.

[0038] As shown by the dashed line in the figure, the home screen 50 shown in FIG. 4 includes a function icon area 501, a setting icon area 502, and a notification area 503. Note that the dashed line is attached for the purpose of explaining the area and is not included in the display of the home screen 50. Hereinafter, as shown by the arrows in the figure, the arrangement of each area will be described using the up, down, left, and right directions.

[0039] The function icon area 501 is arranged at the center of the touch panel 131 and is an area that displays function icons that are icons for receiving display instructions for settings or information related to executable functions. The function icon is an example of an operator. Based on the result of A10, the MFP1 displays function icons of available functions in the function icon area 501. The MFP1 of this embodiment can simultaneously display three function icons in the left - right direction of the function icon area 501. When the number of types of executable functions is more than three, the function icon area 501 is displayed so as to be scrollable in the left - right direction.

[0040] The setting icon area 502 is arranged below the function icon area 501 and is an area that displays setting icons that are icons for receiving instructions for settings independent of functions or display instructions for information. ​​​​​​​​​is a domain. Based on an operation on a setting icon, the MFP1 of this embodiment accepts settings related to communication and trays, and displays information related to a trial mode and the state of the apparatus.

[0041] The notification area 503 is arranged above the function icon area 501 and is an area capable of displaying characters and marks indicating information to be notified. The MFP1 displays, as necessary, warnings to the user, notifications indicating the state of the MFP1, and information such as the current date and time in the notification area 503. The size of the notification area 503 of the MFP1 of this embodiment is about 10 characters for one line of text, and the MFP1 cannot display a plurality of notifications and information in the notification area 503 at the same time. The MFP1 of this embodiment has a horizontally long rectangular touch panel 131 whose horizontal direction is longer than the vertical direction as shown in FIG. 4. The horizontal direction of each area is the longitudinal direction, and the vertical direction is the short side direction. The longitudinal lengths of the function icon area 501 and the setting icon area 502 are equal to the longitudinal length of the home screen 50. Also, the short side lengths of each area are such that the function icon area 501 is the largest, followed by the setting icon area 502, and the notification area 503 is the smallest. And the ratio of the longitudinal length of the notification area 503 to the short side length is larger than the ratio of the longitudinal length of the home screen 50 to the short side length.

[0042]

[0043] On the currently displayed home screen 50, the MFP1 accepts a user's operation such as selection of a process to be executed (A12) via the user IF13. Note that the user who performs the operation of A12 may be a user different from the user who gives the instruction of A01. In A12, in the function icon area 501 ​​​​​​​​​​​​​When one of the icons in the list is operated, the MFP1 checks the status of each switch in the A10. Depending on the state of the A12, the display of the setting screen that accepts settings for the functions selected on the A12 is The setting screen is displayed on the user interface 13 (A13). Some functions are added to the settings for each function and become selectable on the settings screen.

[0044] Basic functions and additional functions with function switches 25 to 27 turned on (alt: On the home screen 50 or each setting screen, the MFP 1 displays the (A14). For example, if the trial switch 28 is set to "running" by A06, , the MFP 1 operates in the same manner as when all the function switches 25 to 27 are turned on. The user can select the functions and settings that are displayed. The user can select the functions and settings to be executed and input execution instructions to the MFP 1 (A15). The MFP1 executes the instructed function (A16).

[0045] On the other hand, if the trial switch 28 is set to "not executed" or "executed", the function switch About additional functions that are turned off for switches 25 to 27 (alt: [off function]), MF P1 is not displayed on the home screen 50 or on each setting screen (A17). Since you cannot select a function that is not available, you cannot use the additional function. Instead of not displaying it, it may be displayed in an unselectable state.

[0046] Next, for the procedure to enable additional functions of the MFP1, refer to the sequence diagram in Figure 5. The user of the MFP1 enters into a contract to activate the additional functions, The person in charge etc. uses a dedicated program for the contract to enable the additional functions of the MFP1. This procedure is carried out. This contract program 5 may be a part of the aforementioned dedicated application for the start request of the trial mode, or may be incorporated into the MFP1. Note that the MFP1 of this embodiment can enable the additional functions even within the valid period of the trial mode, and the enabled additional functions can be continuously used even after the trial mode ends. The salesperson etc. starts the contract program 5 and inputs a valid instruction by specifying the type of the additional function to be enabled and the identification information of the MFP1 (B01). The device during the execution of the contract program 5 accesses the server 3 and transmits an activation request based on the received valid instruction (B02). The server 3 generates an activation command based on the received activation request and transmits the generated activation command to the device that is the source of the information (B03). The activation command includes the identification information of the MFP1. The device during the execution of the contract program 5 transmits the received activation command to the MFP1 (B05). As a result, the activation command is input to the MFP1. The activation command may be input to the MFP1 via a USB memory etc., or may be manually input to the MFP1 by the person in charge. Also, when the contract program 5 is incorporated into the MFP1, the MFP1 receives the activation command from the server 3. The MFP1 turns on the corresponding function switches 25 to 27 based on the received activation command (B06). Next, regarding the procedure for managing the valid period of the trial mode, it will be described with reference to the sequence diagram of FIG. 6.

[0047] The salesperson etc. starts the contract program 5 and inputs a valid instruction by specifying the type of the additional function to be enabled and the identification information of the MFP1 (B01). The device during the execution of the contract program 5 accesses the server 3 and transmits an activation request based on the received valid instruction (B02). The server 3 generates an activation command based on the received activation request and transmits the generated activation command to the device that is the source of the information (B03). The activation command includes the identification information of the MFP1. The device during the execution of the contract program 5 transmits the received activation command to the MFP1 (B05). As a result, the activation command is input to the MFP1.

[0048] The activation command may be input to the MFP1 via a USB memory etc., or may be manually input to the MFP1 by the person in charge. Also, when the contract program 5 is incorporated into the MFP1, the MFP1 receives the activation command from the server 3. The MFP1 turns on the corresponding function switches 25 to 27 based on the received activation command (B06). Next, regarding the procedure for managing the valid period of the trial mode, it will be described with reference to the sequence diagram of FIG. 6. The device during the execution of the contract program 5 transmits the received activation command to the MFP1 (B05). As a result, the activation command is input to the MFP1.

[0049] Next, regarding the procedure for managing the valid period of the trial mode, it will be described with reference to the sequence diagram of FIG. 6. It will be clarified. In this embodiment, the validity period of the trial mode of each device is managed by the server 3. During the period of the trial mode, the MFP1 executes a process for checking the validity period at a predetermined regular timing such as once a day or every few hours.

[0050] As a period management process, the MFP1 determines whether it is connected to the Internet 200 (C01). If it is determined that it is connected (alt: [Connected]), the MFP1 accesses the server 3 via the Internet 200 and sends a confirmation command to the server 3 to check whether it is within the validity period (C02). The confirmation command includes the identification information of the MFP1.

[0051] When the server 3 receives the confirmation command, it reads out the trial start date and the trial end date stored in the trial DB43 in association with the identification information included in the confirmation command, and determines whether it is within the validity period of the trial mode by comparing the read date and the current date and time (C03). Then, the server 3 sends response information indicating the determination result to the MFP1, which is the device that sent the confirmation command (C04).

[0052] When the server 3 of this embodiment receives the confirmation command, it uses, as the response information, any one of in-period information indicating that the remaining validity period is shorter than the threshold, out-of-period information indicating that the validity period has already ended, and near-expiration information indicating that the remaining validity period is shorter than the threshold. For example, when the validity period is 60 days, the server 3 sends in-period information from the 1st day to the 44th day from the trial start date, near-expiration information from the 45th day to the 59th day, and out-of-period information after the 60th day.

[0053] MFP1 detects the remaining validity period based on the response information received from Server3. and displays status information indicating whether the item is within the period, outside the period, or nearing the end of the period. The MFP1 stores the result in the memory 12 (C05). When the status information is stored in the memory 12, the validity period is The process is repeated to confirm the status. The command is not stored in the memory 12 until it is received (A05 in FIG. 2).

[0054] If the response information received from server 3 is out of period (alt: [out of period]), M The FP1 displays an end notification screen to notify the user that the trial mode has ended (C11). For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the end notification screen 51 includes a restart button 511 and is displayed on a touch panel. C11 is an example of the end display process. The timing is an example of the third timing, and the end notification screen 51 is an example of end information. be.

[0055] In addition, the MFP 1 of this embodiment is restarted even if it receives out-of-period information from the server 3. The trial mode will not end until the trial period ends. This means that additional features can be executed even outside the validity period. However, outside the valid period, an end notification screen 51 is displayed on the user interface 13. Therefore, the user can know that the valid period of the trial mode has expired. This reduces the confusion of the user when the trial mode is terminated and the additional functions are no longer available.

[0056] When the user operates the restart button 511 (C12), the MFP 1 enters the trial mode. End the mode and restart. Specifically, before restarting, the MFP1 sends a notice of trial completion including its own identification information to the server 3 (C13). Based on the received notice of trial completion, the server 3 deletes the information of the MFP1 stored in the trial DB43 (C14 ). Also, the MFP1 makes a setting to change the trial switch 28 to "completed" (C15 ), deletes the status information indicating outside the period stored in C05 (C16), and restarts ( C17). By restarting, the change of the trial switch 28 is reflected, and the MFP1 will not enter the trial mode again and will not check the validity period hereafter. As described above, even when all additional functions are enabled, the MFP1 executes the procedure for ending the trial mode (C1 3 to C16). The timing for executing the procedure for ending the trial mode is an example of the second timing.

[0057] Note that in the procedure for ending the trial mode, the MFP1 initializes the information regarding the functions that are not enabled among the various types of information set within the period of the trial mode. For example, when a trial instruction for the custom UI function is received during the trial mode, the MFP1 acquires the data for the custom UI provided by the vendor and stores the acquired information as the information of the custom UI function in the memory 12. If the custom UI function is valid and the information of the custom UI function is stored in the memory 12, the MFP1 reads out the data when displaying the home screen and displays the home screen using the read data. And when the custom UI function is used during the trial mode and the trial mode is ended with the custom UI function remaining not enabled, the MFP1 deletes the custom UI information stored in the memory 12.

[0058] ​​ Delete the function information. On the other hand, when ending the trial mode, if the custom UI function is enabled, MFP1 does not delete the information of the custom UI function stored in the memory 12. By not deleting the information, the information set during the trial mode can still be used after the end of the trial mode. On the other hand, when it is determined at C01 that the connection to the Internet 200 is impossible (alt: [Connection impossible]), MFP1 stores the period-unknown information indicating that the valid period of the trial mode is unknown in the memory 12 (C21). When the connection to the Internet 200 is impossible, MFP1 cannot send a confirmation command and cannot receive response information from the server 3, so the valid period cannot be confirmed. Note that MFP1 should also execute C21 when it cannot receive response information from the server 3 after sending a confirmation command or when the content of the received response information is unknown.

[0059]

[0060] Furthermore, MFP1 displays a connection impossible screen notifying that the connection to the Internet 200 is impossible (C22). For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the connection impossible screen 52 includes a retry button 521 and is displayed on the entire surface of the touch panel 131 in the same manner as the end notification screen 51. When the user operates the retry button 521, MFP1 retries the Internet connection, and if the connection is possible, it sends a confirmation command to the server 3 as described above. The connection impossible screen 52 may further include a cancel button for receiving an instruction to cancel the display.

[0061] Note that when the period-unknown information is stored in the memory 12, MFP1 periodically checks the Internet connection. - Try to connect to the network 200. In this case, the MFP1 may try to connect more frequently than the frequency at which it sends the confirmation command to the server 3. And when the connection to the Internet 200 is restored, the MFP1 sends the confirmation command to the server 3 regardless of the pre-determined transmission timing of the confirmation command. And when the response information can be received from the server 3

[0062] Next, the procedure of the screen display process, which is a process for displaying various screens on the touch panel 131, will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 9. The screen display process is, for example, the process executed at A11 in FIG. 2 and is executed by the CPU11 of the MFP1 when it becomes the timing to display various screens on the touch panel 131 based on the user's operation. The timing to start the screen display process is, for example, when the MFP1 is started up or when it resumes from the low power consumption mode

[0063] The CPU11 determines whether the state of the MFP1 is an error state (S101). The error state is, for example, a state in which functions cannot be executed as they are, such as cover open, paper jam, or ink out. If it is determined that the state is an error state (S101: YES), the CPU11 ​​​​​​​Determine whether it has been accepted (S103). Whether dealing with an error or operating the cancel key 134, if it is determined that neither has been accepted (S103: NO), the CPU 11 maintains the display until either is accepted.

[0064] The error screen is a screen that displays only error information and does not include information regarding the trial mode. If it is determined that dealing with an error or an operation on the cancel key 134 has been accepted (S 103: YES), the CPU 11 returns to S101 and determines whether the error has been resolved. Since the job cannot be restarted if the error is not resolved, the CPU 11 continues to display the error information to alert the user until the error is resolved, and prompts the user to resolve the error. Note that there may be a button on the error screen to receive an instruction to display detailed status. If an operation on that button is received, the CPU 11 may perform the determination of S1 03 again after displaying the details.

[0065] If it is determined that it is not in an error state or the error has been resolved (S101: N O), the CPU 11 determines the function icon to be displayed (S105). The function icon is the icon displayed in the function icon area 501, and the CPU 11 determines the function icon according to the states of the trial switch 2 8 and the function switches 25 to 27. Note that the CPU 1 1 may make the determination of S105 before S101.

[0066] Then, the CPU 11 determines whether status information indicating outside the trial mode period or information with an unknown period is stored in the memory 12 (S111). The status indicating outside the period ​​​The information is the response information received from the server 3 at C04 in FIG. 6 described above and is out-of-period information. In the case of, it is the information stored at C05. The information with an unknown period is the information stored at C21 in FIG. 6 when a network error has occurred.

[0067] If it is determined that none of the information is stored (S111: NO), the CPU 11 executes notification processing (S112). That is, when there is no network error and information indicating either within the period or near the end is stored in the memory 12 as status information, the CPU 11 executes notification processing. The notification processing is a process of determining the display content in the notification area 503 and displaying the home screen. The procedure of the notification processing will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 10 . The timing to start executing the notification processing is an example of the first timing.

[0068] In the notification processing, the CPU 11 determines whether there is notification information to be displayed in the notification area 503 . There are multiple types of notification information. For example, when information indicating within the period or near the end is stored in the memory 12 as status information, the CPU 11 determines that there is notification information to be displayed. Specifically, when information indicating within the period is stored, the CPU 11 determines that the trial mode information indicating that it is within the valid period of the trial mode is the notification information to be displayed. Also, when information indicating near the end is stored, the CPU 11 determines that the end-near information indicating near the expiration of the valid period of the trial mode is the notification information to be displayed. The end-near information is an example of the expiration-near information.

[0069] Also, for example, the remaining amount of the coloring agent is small, the paper is not set in the paper feed tray, the photosensitive member such as the drum is approaching the usage limit, etc. In the case of warning information regarding consumables attached to the MFP1, the CPU11 determines that there is notification information to be displayed. Also, the processing for entering the low power consumption mode and the size of the set document are detected. The processing execution status information indicating that a predetermined processing not depending on the function, such as processing, is also included in the notification information to be displayed. In S201, the CPU11 determines whether there is one or more

[0070] notification information to be displayed. If it is determined that there is notification information to be displayed (S201: YES), the CPU11 determines the notification text of the notification information to be displayed (S202). In the MFP1 of this embodiment, due to the size limitation of the notification area 503, two or more notification information cannot be displayed simultaneously, so the priority of each notification information is set in advance. In S202, the CPU11 selects the notification information with the highest priority among the multiple notification information to be displayed, and determines the notification text corresponding to the notification information as the first display target.

[0071] Specifically, the priority of each notification information is, for example, as shown in FIG. 11, in descending order, near end information > consumable information > trial mode information > processing execution status information. For example, when the notification information includes near end information, since the priority of the near end information is the first, the CPU1 1 determines the notification text as "Near the end of the trial". The near end of the trial mode is a state where the job can be continued, but there is a possibility that additional functions will soon become unavailable. In this form The MFP1 in this state can notify the end - approaching information with a higher priority than the consumable information, so that the user can be considered to purchase additional functions.

[0072] Also, for example, when the notification information does not include the end - approaching information but includes the consumable information, the CPU11 determines the notification text as "Consumables". Although the shortage or deterioration of consumables does not prevent the job from continuing, it may affect the image quality. Therefore, it is desirable for the user to replenish or replace the consumables with a higher priority than the trial - mode information. The consumable information is an example of high - priority information, and "Consumables" is an example of the second text.

[0073] Also, for example, when the notification information includes neither the end - approaching information nor the consumable information but includes the trial - mode information, the CPU11 determines the notification text as "In Trial". "In Trial" is an example of the first text, and the state where the notification information includes information with a higher priority than the trial - mode information is an example of the state where high - priority information should be displayed.

[0074] Then, the CPU11 causes the home screen 50 including the function icon determined in S105 of the screen display process and the notification text determined in S20 2 to be displayed on the entire touch panel 131 of the user IF13 (S204). S204 is an example of the display process. For example, when information indicating that the end is approaching is stored as status information, the CPU11, as shown in FIG. 1 2(A), displays the home screen 50 including the end - approaching notification text 701 in the notification area 503. Then, the CPU11 sets the notification area 503 as a button area where operations can be received.

[0075] ​​​​The CPU 11 determines whether an operation has been received for the function icon being displayed in the function icon area 501 or the setting icon being displayed in the setting icon area 502 on the currently displayed home screen 50 (S211). If it is determined that no operation has been received for the icon (S211: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether an operation has been received for the notification area 503 (S212). If it is determined that no operation has been received for the notification area 503 either (S212: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether one minute has elapsed since the start of the display of the home screen 50 (S213). If it is determined that one minute has not elapsed (S213: NO), the CPU 11 waits until either an operation is received or one minute has elapsed. One minute is an example of a fixed period. icon, and determines whether an operation has been received for either of the icons. If it is determined that an operation has been received for the icon (S211: YES), the CPU 11 proceeds to step S214. If it is determined that no operation has been received for the icon (S211: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether an operation has been received for the notification area 503 (S212). If it is determined that no operation has been received for the notification area 503 either (S212: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether one minute has elapsed since the start of the display of the home screen 50 (S213). If it is determined that one minute has not elapsed (S213: NO), the CPU 11 waits until either an operation is received or one minute has elapsed. One minute is an example of a fixed period. If it is determined that an operation has been received for the notification area 503 (S212: YES), the CPU 11 displays a detailed notification screen including detailed information regarding the notification being displayed in the notification area 503 across the entire touch panel 131 (S215). The detailed notification screen includes an OK button. For example, in S204, when the home screen 50 shown in FIG. 12(A) is displayed and an operation is received for the notification area 503 being displayed, the CPU 11, in S215, displays an approaching end screen 71 including information on the trial end date as the detailed notification screen as shown in FIG. 12(B). The approaching end screen 71 includes an OK button 711.

[0076] The CPU 11 determines whether an operation has been received for the OK button in the detailed notification screen or the cancel key 134, or whether one minute has elapsed after the display of the detailed notification screen (S216). If it is determined that an operation has been received for the OK button in the detailed notification screen or the cancel key 134 (S216: YES), the CPU 11 proceeds to step S217. If it is determined that one minute has elapsed after the display of the detailed notification screen (S216: NO), the CPU 11 proceeds to step S217. For example, in S204, when the home screen 50 shown in FIG. 12(A) is displayed and an operation is received for the notification area 503 being displayed, the CPU 11, in S215, displays an approaching end screen 71 including information on the trial end date as the detailed notification screen as shown in FIG. 12(B). The approaching end screen 71 includes an OK button 711. The CPU 11 determines whether an operation has been received for the OK button in the detailed notification screen or the cancel key 134, or whether one minute has elapsed after the display of the detailed notification screen (S216). If it is determined that an operation has been received for the OK button in the detailed notification screen or the cancel key 134 (S216: YES), the CPU 11 proceeds to step S217.

[0077] If it is determined that one minute has elapsed after the display of the detailed notification screen (S216: NO), the CPU 11 proceeds to step S217. The CPU 11 determines whether an operation has been received for the OK button in the detailed notification screen or the cancel key 134, or whether one minute has elapsed after the display of the detailed notification screen (S216). If it is determined that no operation has been received and less than one minute has elapsed (S216: NO), the CPU 11 waits until either condition is met. If it is determined that an operation has been received or one minute has elapsed (S216: YES), the CPU 11 determines whether there is any other notification information (S218). Even if it is determined in S204 that one minute has elapsed since the home screen 50 was displayed (S213: YES), the CPU 11 proceeds to S218.

[0078] If it is determined that there is other notification information (S218: YES), the CPU 11 determines the notification text corresponding to the next-level notification information (S219). If there are multiple pieces of notification information to be displayed, the CPU 11 determines the notification text to be displayed next based on the priority order. Then, the CPU 11 returns to S204 and displays the home screen 50 including the notification text determined in S219 in the entire touch panel 131. That is, the CPU 11 makes the home screen 50 displayed in the previous S204 or the detailed notification screen displayed in S215 non-displayed and displays a new home screen 50 including the next notification text. For example, when the notification information includes consumable information and trial mode information, the CPU 11 first displays the home screen 50 including the notification text for notifying the consumable information in the notification area 503, and after one minute has elapsed, displays the home screen 50 including the notification text for notifying the trial mode information in the notification area 503. Note that in the second and subsequent S204, instead of redisplaying the entire home screen 50, the CPU 11 may only change the display of the notification area 503.

[0079]

[0080] When notifying the trial mode information, the CPU 11 performs the following in S204, for example, as shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 13, a home screen 50 including a notification text 801 within the period is displayed. When an operation to the notification area 503 is accepted in A), the CPU 11 executes the following in S215: As a notification screen, as shown in FIG. 13(B), information indicating that the trial mode is in effect is included. A period screen 81 is displayed. The period screen 81 includes an OK button 811. The inner screen 81 may also display information regarding the end date of the trial mode.

[0081] In addition, there are multiple notification information with a higher priority than trial mode information, not limited to consumable information. If there are multiple notification information with a higher priority than the trial mode information, the CPU 11 displays these notification information in order of priority before trial mode information, according to priority Specifically, the CPU 11 sets the information with the highest priority as the notification text in step S202. Then, after the home screen 50 is displayed in S204, if the condition in S213 or S216 is satisfied, If so, in S219, the next information is used as the notification text, and S204 is executed again.

[0082] Even after displaying one or more high-priority notification information, the priority is higher than the trial mode information. If there is further notification information that has not been displayed, the MFP1 should display the high priority information. This is an example of the state in which the M FP1 is an example of a state in which high priority information should not be displayed. If the trial mode information is included, all notification information with a higher priority than the trial mode information is displayed, and then In step S202, the CPU 11 sets the trial mode information as a notification text, and in step S204, 3(A) is displayed.

[0083] When it is determined that all notification information to be displayed has been displayed and there is no other notification information (S2 18: NO), or if it is determined that there is no notification information to be displayed (S201: If NO, the CPU 11 determines to notify the date and time information in the notification area 503 (S221). Then, the CPU 11 displays the home screen 50 (see FIG. 4) including the date and time information in the notification area 503. This is displayed on the user IF 13 (S222).

[0084] Then, the CPU 11 displays the function icon or the setting icon on the displayed home screen 50. It is determined whether an operation on the icon has been accepted (S223). If it is determined that the home screen 50 has not been displayed (S223: NO), the CPU 11 maintains the display of the home screen 50. If no operation is received for a predetermined period of time after the home screen 50 is displayed, the MF P1 may be in a low power consumption mode with the screen turned off.

[0085] An operation to a function icon or a setting icon is accepted on the displayed home screen 50. If it is determined that the operation is performed (S211: YES or S223: YES), the CPU 11 Execute post-processing. Post-processing changes the display according to the icon that accepted the operation. The post-operation process is described in the flow chart of FIG. The following description will be given with reference to a flow chart.

[0086] In the post-operation process, the CPU 11 determines whether the icon that has received the operation is a function icon or not. If it is determined that the icon is a function icon (S301), 01: Functional icon), the CPU 11 receives settings regarding the function of the received functional icon and causes a setting screen for making settings to be displayed across the entire touch panel 131 (S311), and receives various setting instructions. Then, the CPU 11 determines whether or not an execution instruction for the function has been received (S312). If it is determined that an execution instruction for the function has not been received (S312: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether or not an operation on the cancel key 134 has been received (S313). If it is determined that an operation on the cancel key 134 has not been received (S313: NO), the CPU 11 continues to display the setting screen and receives various setting and execution instructions. If it is determined that an execution instruction for the function has been received (S312: YES), the CPU 11 causes an execution screen including job information, which is information on the function being executed, to be displayed across the entire touch panel 131 (S315). Then, the CPU 11 determines whether or not the job has ended (S316). If it is determined that the job has not ended (S316: NO), the CPU 11 continues to display the execution screen until the job ends. (S312).

[0087] When it is determined that an execution instruction for the function has not been received (S312: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether or not an operation on the cancel key 134 has been received (S313). If it is determined that an operation on the cancel key 134 has not been received (S313: NO), the CPU 11 continues to display the setting screen and receives various setting and execution instructions. If it is determined that an operation on the cancel key 134 has not been received (S313: NO), the CPU 11 continues to display the setting screen and receives various setting and execution instructions. If it is determined that an operation on the cancel key 134 has not been received (S313: NO), the CPU 11 continues to display the setting screen and receives various setting and execution instructions.

[0088] When it is determined that an execution instruction for the function has been received (S312: YES), the CPU 11 displays an execution screen including job information, which is information on the function being executed, across the entire touch panel 131 (S315). Then, the CPU 11 determines whether or not the job has ended (S316). If it is determined that the job has not ended (S316: NO), the CPU 11 continues to display the execution screen until the job ends. (S315). Then, the CPU 11 determines whether or not the job has ended (S316). If it is determined that the job has not ended (S316: NO), the CPU 11 continues to display the execution screen until the job ends. If it is determined that the job has not ended (S316: NO), the CPU 11 continues to display the execution screen until the job ends. If it is determined that the job has not ended (S316: NO), the CPU 11 continues to display the execution screen until the job ends.

[0089] On the other hand, when it is determined that the received icon is a setting icon (S301: setting icon), the CPU 11 causes a menu screen for receiving a selection of an item to be the target of setting or information display corresponding to the operated setting icon to be displayed across the entire touch panel 131 (S321). The CPU 11 determines whether or not a selection operation by the user has been received on the displayed menu screen (S322). If it is determined that a selection operation has not been received (S322: NO) On the other hand, when it is determined that the received icon is a setting icon (S301: setting icon), the CPU 11 causes a menu screen for receiving a selection of an item to be the target of setting or information display corresponding to the operated setting icon to be displayed across the entire touch panel 131 (S321). The CPU 11 determines whether or not a selection operation by the user has been received on the displayed menu screen (S322). If it is determined that a selection operation has not been received (S322: NO) On the other hand, when it is determined that the received icon is a setting icon (S301: setting icon), the CPU 11 causes a menu screen for receiving a selection of an item to be the target of setting or information display corresponding to the operated setting icon to be displayed across the entire touch panel 131 (S321). The CPU 11 determines whether or not a selection operation by the user has been received on the displayed menu screen (S322). If it is determined that a selection operation has not been received (S322: NO) (S321). The CPU 11 determines whether or not a selection operation by the user has been received on the displayed menu screen (S322). If it is determined that a selection operation has not been received (S322: NO) If it is determined that a selection operation has not been received (S322: NO) , the CPU 11 continues to display the menu screen. When it determines that it has received a user's selection operation (S322: YES), the CPU 11 causes the user IF 13 to display a detailed screen showing detailed information regarding the selected item (S323).

[0090] For example, when an operation on the all settings icon 90 is received on the home screen 50 shown in FIG. 4 , the CPU 11 causes the detailed settings screen 91 as shown in FIG. 15(A) to be displayed on the entire surface of the touch panel 131. The detailed settings screen 91 includes various setting buttons 911. And , when an operation on the various setting buttons 911 is received, the CPU 11 causes the various setting screens 92 having a plurality of options to be displayed on the entire surface of the touch panel 131 as shown in FIG. 15(B). When status information of the trial mode is stored in the memory 12, each of the various setting screens 92 includes a trial mode button 921. By including the trial mode button 921 in the options of the various setting screens 92, the user can grasp that it is in the trial mode when viewing the various setting screens 92. On the other hand, when the status information of the trial mode is not stored, the various setting screens 92 do not include the trial mode button 921.

[0091] When an operation on the trial mode button 921 is received on the various setting screens 92 shown in FIG. 15(B), the CPU 11 causes a detailed screen including information on whether it is within the period of the trial mode or outside the period based on the status information of the trial mode to be displayed on the entire surface of the touch panel 131. If it is within the period, as shown in FIG. 15(C), the within-period screen 93 is displayed. Note that when the status information indicates that the end is approaching, the CPU 11 determines that it is within the period.

[0092] During the period, the in-period screen 93 includes, for example, period information indicating the valid period of the trial mode, and the status table includes a status display button 931 and a trial cancellation button 932. The status display button 931 is a button that receives an instruction to display the status information of the trial mode including information such as the period information of the trial mode. The trial cancellation button 932 is a button that receives an instruction to end the trial mode even within the valid period. Note that the in-period screen 93 may not include the period information. The period information may also be displayed in the in-period screen 93 or the status information of the trial mode, so that the user can grasp not only that the trial mode is set but also the valid period of the trial mode. On the other hand, if the status information indicates outside the period, the CPU 11 displays the out-of-period screen 94 on the entire surface of the touch panel 131 as shown in FIG. 15(D). The out-of-period screen 94 includes a status display button 941. When an operation on the status display button 941 in the out-of-period screen 94 shown in FIG. 15(D) is received, the MFP 1 displays the end notification screen 51 shown in FIG. 7 and receives a restart instruction at the restart button 511. When an operation on the trial cancellation button 932 in the in-period screen 93 shown in FIG. 15(C) is received, the CPU 11 displays the confirmation screen 95 on the entire surface of the touch panel 131 as shown in FIG. 15(E). The confirmation screen 95 includes text for confirming the end of the trial mode, a "Yes" button 951, and a "No" button 952. The "Yes" button 951 is a button that receives an instruction to end the trial mode and restart the MFP 1. The "No" button 952 is a button that receives an instruction to cancel the operation of ending the trial mode. button 952 is a button that receives an instruction to cancel the operation of ending the trial mode. button 952 is a button that receives an instruction to cancel the operation of ending the trial mode.

[0093] On the other hand, if the status information indicates outside the period, the CPU 11 displays the out-of-period screen 94 on the entire surface of the touch panel 131 as shown in FIG. 15(D). The out-of-period screen 94 includes a status display button 941. When an operation on the status display button 941 in the out-of-period screen 94 shown in FIG. 15(D) is received, the MFP 1 displays the end notification screen 51 shown in FIG. 7 and receives a restart instruction at the restart button 511. On the other hand, if the status information indicates outside the period, the CPU 11 displays the out-of-period screen 94 on the entire surface of the touch panel 131 as shown in FIG. 15(D). The out-of-period screen 94 includes a status display button 941. When an operation on the status display button 941 in the out-of-period screen 94 shown in FIG. 15(D) is received, the MFP 1 displays the end notification screen 51 shown in FIG. 7 and receives a restart instruction at the restart button 511. button 952 is a button that receives an instruction to cancel the operation of ending the trial mode.

[0094] When an operation on the trial cancellation button 932 in the in-period screen 93 shown in FIG. 15(C) is received, the CPU 11 displays the confirmation screen 95 on the entire surface of the touch panel 131 as shown in FIG. 15(E). The confirmation screen 95 includes text for confirming the end of the trial mode, a "Yes" button 951, and a "No" button 952. The "Yes" button 951 is a button that receives an instruction to end the trial mode and restart the MFP 1. The "No" button 952 is a button that receives an instruction to cancel the operation of ending the trial mode. button 952 is a button that receives an instruction to cancel the operation of ending the trial mode. Button 952 is a button that accepts an instruction to return to the previous screen, the in-period screen 93, without ending the trial mode.

[0095] When the operation on the "Yes" button 951 is accepted, the MFP1 executes the procedure for ending the trial mode shown in C13 - C16 of FIG. 6 and restarts. By accepting an instruction to end the trial mode, a more flexible operation of the trial mode can be achieved.

[0096] When the operation on the "Yes" button 951 in the confirmation screen 95 or the restart button 511 in the end notification screen 51 is accepted and the device restarts, and when the operation on all setting icons 90 is accepted on the home screen 50 displayed after the restart, the MFP1 also displays the detailed setting screen 91 shown in FIG. 15(A). However, since the status information has been deleted by the procedure for ending the trial mode, when the operation on various setting buttons 911 is accepted on the detailed setting screen 91 after the restart, the various setting screens 92 displayed do not include the trial mode button 921.

[0097] Returning to the explanation of the post - operation processing. After displaying the detailed screen in S323, the CPU11 determines whether an operation on the cancel key 134 has been accepted (S324). If it is determined that no operation has been accepted (S324: NO), the CPU11 continues to display the detailed screen. In addition, when the CPU11 accepts an operation on the return key 132 during the display of each screen, it may return to the previous screen.

[0098] If it is determined that the running job has ended (S316: YES), or if it is determined that an operation on the cancel key 134 has been accepted (S313: YES, or S324: YE S)​​​​​​​​ S), the CPU 11 finishes the operation post-processing and returns to the notification process.

[0099] Returning to the explanation of the notification process. The CPU 11 determines whether the end condition of the operation post-processing is the end of job execution (S232). If it is determined that the job has not ended (S232 : NO), the CPU 11 returns to S221 and causes the home screen 50 including the date and time notification to be displayed on the user IF 13. Even when an operation on a function icon is received and the setting screen is displayed, if the display of the setting screen is aborted without receiving an execution instruction for the job, no notification information is displayed. On the other hand, if it is determined that the job has ended (S232: YES), the CPU 11 ends the notification process and returns to the screen display process. In the screen display process, as shown in FIG. 9,

[0100] after the notification process of S112, the CPU 11 returns to S101 and determines whether it is in an error state . If it is not in an error state and is not outside the trial period or the period is unknown, the CPU 11 re-executes the notification process and notifies information regarding the trial mode. Since it is assumed that the user is near the MFP 1 after the job is executed, by displaying information regarding the trial mode on the home screen 50 displayed after the job is completed, it is easier to notify the user that it is in the trial mode. On the other hand, when returning to the display of the home screen 50 without executing the job, since the home screen 50 has already been displayed once and the display frequency

[0101] becomes too high and causes annoyance, the MFP 1 does not display the trial mode information. After the job is completed, the home screen 50 is displayed. By displaying information regarding the trial mode on the home screen 50, it is easier to notify the user that it is in the trial mode. On the other hand, when returning to the display of the home screen 50 without executing the job, since the home screen 50 has already been displayed once and the display frequency becomes too high and causes annoyance, the MFP 1 does not display the trial mode information. To reduce the annoyance caused by the frequency becoming too high, the MFP 1 does not display the trial mode information.

[0102] ​Return to the explanation of the screen display process. Status information indicating outside the trial mode period or the period is unknown If it is determined that any of the information is stored (S111: YES), the CPU 11 Based on the status information, causes a warning screen to be displayed across the entire touch panel 131 (S11 5). Specifically, the CPU 11 causes the end notification screen 51 shown in FIG. 7 or the connection disabled screen 52 shown in FIG. 8 to be displayed.

[0103] Then, the CPU 11 determines whether an instruction to restart by operating the restart button 511 in the end notification screen 51 or an instruction to retry by operating the retry button 521 in the connection disabled screen 52 has been received (S116). If it is determined that an operation on the button being displayed has not been received (S116: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether an operation on the cancel key 134 has been received (S117). If it is determined that an operation on the cancel key 134 has not been received (S117: NO), the display of the end notification screen 51 or the connection disabled screen 52 is continued until an operation on any of the buttons and the cancel key 134 is received.

[0104] If it is determined that an operation on the button being displayed has been received (S116: YES), the CPU 1 1 executes restart or retry as the process corresponding to the button that has been operated (S118 ) and ends the screen display process. If it is determined that an instruction to restart has been received in the end notification screen 51 , the CPU 11 starts the process for ending the trial (C13 to C17 in FIG. 6). Also , if an instruction to retry has been received in the connection disabled screen 52, the CPU 11 retries the network connection.

[0105] ​When it is determined that an operation on the cancel key 134 has been received (S117: YES), the CPU1 1 determines the notification text to be displayed in the notification area 503 (S121). The notification text to be displayed is text indicating outside the period or unknown period of the current trial mode and may be, for example, the same text as the title of the end notification screen 51 or the connection unavailable screen 52. The text indicating an unknown period is an example of unknown information. Then, the CPU11 displays the home screen 50 including the function icon determined in S105 and the notification text determined in S121 on the entire touch panel 131 (S122). The CPU11 sets the notification area 503 to a button area where operations can be received. That is, when an operation on the cancel key 134 is received during the display of the end notification screen 51 or the connection unavailable screen 52, the CPU11 temporarily hides the display of these screens and displays the home screen. However, in this case, the CPU11 displays, for example, the home screen including the same notification text as the title of the end notification screen 51 or the connection unavailable screen 52. The state where unknown information is stored in the memory 12 is an example of a state where notification information indicating an unknown period exists and unknown information should be displayed. In the MFP1 of this embodiment, in a state outside the valid period or with an unknown period of the trial mode, even if there is information with a high priority such as consumable information, that information is not displayed, and information outside the period or with an unknown period is displayed in the notification area 503. Furthermore, the CPU11 determines whether an operation on a function icon or a setting icon has been received on the currently displayed home screen 50 (S125). When an operation on an icon is received

[0106] That is, when an operation on the cancel key 134 is received during the display of the end notification screen 51 or the connection unavailable screen 52, the CPU11 temporarily hides the display of these screens and displays the home screen. However, in this case, the CPU11 displays, for example, the home screen including the same notification text as the title of the end notification screen 51 or the connection unavailable screen 52. The state where unknown information is stored in the memory 12 is an example of a state where notification information indicating an unknown period exists and unknown information should be displayed. In the MFP1 of this embodiment, in a state outside the valid period or with an unknown period of the trial mode, even if there is information with a high priority such as consumable information, that information is not displayed, and information outside the period or with an unknown period is displayed in the notification area 503.

[0107] Furthermore, the CPU11 determines whether an operation on a function icon or a setting icon has been received on the currently displayed home screen 50 (S125). When an operation on an icon is received ​​​​​​​​​If it is determined that there is none (S125: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether an operation to the notification area 503 has been received (S126). If it is determined that no operation to the notification area 503 has been received (S126: NO), the CPU 11 continues to display the home screen 50.

[0108] If it is determined that an operation to an icon has been received (S125: YES), the CPU 11 executes the post-operation processing described above (S127). After the completion of the post-operation processing, or if it is determined that an operation to the notification area 5 03 has been received (S126: YES), the CPU 11 returns to S11 5 to redisplay the warning screen. That is, when it is outside the trial mode period or the period is unknown unlike the case of the notification process, the CPU 11 does not change the notification information displayed in the notification area 503 even after a certain time such as one minute has passed, and continues to notify the information outside the trial mode period or with an unknown period. So far, the MFP 1 capable of displaying the home screen including the notification area 503 for displaying text has been described. However, there are also devices with a small size of the touch panel 131 and incapable of displaying notifications in text. Examples of the home screens displayed on such devices are shown in FIGS. 16 and 17. The home screen 110 shown in FIG. 16(A) and the home screen 120 shown in FIG. 17 include function icons 111, 121 for receiving setting or display instructions regarding each function and setting icons 112, 122 for receiving display instructions for settings or information independent of the function, and do not include a notification area for displaying in text.

[0109] The home screen 110 shown in FIG. 16(A) further includes a notification icon indicating that there is notification information. Although the size of the touch panel 131 is small and it is impossible to display notifications in text, there are also such devices. Examples of the home screens displayed on such devices are shown in FIGS. 16 and 17. The home screen 110 shown in FIG. 16(A) and the home screen 120 shown in FIG. 17 include function icons 111, 121 for receiving setting or display instructions regarding each function and setting icons 112, 122 for receiving display instructions for settings or information independent of the function, and do not include a notification area for displaying in text. The home screen 110 shown in FIG. 16(A) and the home screen 120 shown in FIG. 17 include function icons 111, 121 for receiving setting or display instructions regarding each function and setting icons 112, 122 for receiving display instructions for settings or information independent of the function, and do not include a notification area for displaying in text. The home screen 110 shown in FIG. 16(A) and the home screen 120 shown in FIG. 17 include function icons 111, 121 for receiving setting or display instructions regarding each function and setting icons 112, 122 for receiving display instructions for settings or information independent of the function, and do not include a notification area for displaying in text. The home screen 110 shown in FIG. 16(A) and the home screen 120 shown in FIG. 17 include function icons 111, 121 for receiving setting or display instructions regarding each function and setting icons 112, 122 for receiving display instructions for settings or information independent of the function, and do not include a notification area for displaying in text. The home screen 110 shown in FIG. 16(A) and the home screen 120 shown in FIG. 17 include function icons 111, 121 for receiving setting or display instructions regarding each function and setting icons 112, 122 for receiving display instructions for settings or information independent of the function, and do not include a notification area for displaying in text.

[0110] The home screen 110 shown in FIG. 16(A) further includes a notification icon indicating that there is notification information. It includes the notification icon 113. The area where the notification icon 113 is displayed is an example of a notification area. The notification icon 113 is an area where the user's operation can be received, and it notifies only the presence or absence of notification information. When the device that displays this home screen 110 receives an operation on the notification icon 113, as shown in FIG. 16(B), it displays a notification screen 115 including a list of notification information. For example, when the status information of the trial mode is stored, the notification information displayed on the notification screen 115 also includes information regarding the trial mode.

[0111] On the other hand, the home screen 120 shown in FIG. 17 includes one notification image instead of an icon. Specifically, the home screen 120 shown in FIG. 17(A) includes the notification image 123, and the home screen 120 shown in FIG. 17(B) includes the notification image 124. The area where the notification images 123 and 124 are displayed is an example of a notification area. The notification images 123 and 124 are areas where the user's operation cannot be received, and they are various images such as marks indicating the content of the notification information. The device that displays the home screen 120 displays one of the notification images of the notification target according to the notification information of the notification target. In this device, when the status information of the trial mode is stored and there is no consumable information of the notification target, as shown in FIG. 17(A), a home screen 120 including the notification image 123 indicating that it is in the trial mode is displayed. On the other hand, even when the status information of the trial mode is stored, if there is consumable information of the notification target, as shown in FIG. 17(B), a notification image 124 indicating that there is consumable information is displayed. And, for example,

[0112] when one minute has passed, the notification image 124 in the home screen 120 is changed to the notification image 123. ​​​​​​​​​ That is, when there is a plurality of pieces of information to be notified, the notification images corresponding to each piece of notification information are sequentially displayed based on the priority.

[0113] In this apparatus, if the notification information with a higher priority than the trial mode information is the notification target, it should be in a state where the notification information with a higher priority is displayed, and the notification image regarding the trial mode is not displayed, and the notification image regarding the notification information with a higher priority is displayed. The process of displaying the home screen 120 is an example of the display process. The notification image 123 on the home screen 120 is an example of the first notification image, and the notification image 124 is an example of the second notification image. When there is little information that can be displayed in the notification area, by displaying the notification images corresponding to each piece of notification information in the notification area, the user can grasp whether there is notification information regarding the trial mode even without text display.

[0114] As described in detail above, the MFP1 of this embodiment displays the home screen 503 including the notification information to be notified in the notification area 503. And, if the MFP1 is within the valid period of the trial mode and is not in a state where information with a high priority such as consumable information should be displayed, the trial mode information is displayed in the notification area 503. Thereby, the user can grasp that the trial mode is set in the MFP1 and the additional functions are temporarily available. On the other hand, if it is in a state where information with a high priority should be displayed, that information is displayed in the notification area 503 and the trial mode information is not displayed. Thereby, without preventing the notification of information with a high priority by the trial mode information, the user can grasp the information with a high priority even within the valid period of the trial mode.

[0115] Furthermore, since the MFP1 of this embodiment displays only one piece of notification information in the notification area 503, The notification area 503 does not become complicated, and the information that the user wants to be notified of can be easily conveyed. Furthermore, if the information with a high priority should be displayed, that information is displayed. If the state where the information with a high priority should be displayed ends, and if the trial mode is within the valid period, the trial mode information is displayed . In particular, the MFP1 of this embodiment automatically switches to the trial mode information after one minute has passed since the information with a high priority was displayed, or when an instruction to stop displaying the information with a high priority is received. Therefore, it can be notified that the trial mode is set without simultaneously displaying the trial mode information and the information with a high priority.

[0116] Also, when the valid period of the trial mode is unknown, the MFP1 displays the connection unavailable screen 52, so that the user can recognize that the valid period of the trial mode is unknown. Also, information indicating that the trial mode is outside the valid period or information indicating that the valid period is unknown is displayed with higher priority than the high-priority information, so that the user can easily grasp the situation.

[0117] Note that this embodiment is merely an example and does not limit the present invention in any way. Therefore, the technology disclosed in this specification can naturally be variously improved and modified without departing from the gist thereof. For example, an example of the image processing apparatus is not limited to the MFP, but can be applied to any device that forms an image or forms image data, such as a printer, scanner, FAX device, computer multifunction machine, etc., and has a connection function to the Internet 200.

[0118] Also, the display modes of the various screens illustrated in this embodiment are all examples, and the arrangement of the areas in each screen and the words displayed, etc. are not limited to these modes. For example, the notification area 5 ​​​​​​ 03 is for one line of text and can display only one piece of notification information, but it may be possible to display multiple lines. In that case, the MFP1 may display one piece of notification information in multiple lines or may display multiple pieces of notification information, for example, starting from the one with the highest priority at the upper position.

[0119] Also, for example, although the error information is assumed to be displayed across the entire touch panel 131, it doesn't have to be across the entire area. For example, the error information may be displayed in the notification area 50 3 with even higher priority than the consumable information. Also, for example, notifications approaching the end or notifications of connection failure may not be displayed. In this case, the response information sent from the server 3 may be either in-period information or out-of-period information.

[0120] Also, in this embodiment, it was assumed that the period information is not displayed in the notification area 503 of the home screen 50, but it may be displayed. However, if the period information is displayed within the home screen 50, it is likely to be confused with the current time by the user, and conversely, it may cause confusion. Therefore, it is more preferable to display it on the near-end screen 7 1 or the in-period screen 81. Also, the period information may indicate, for example, the expiration date and time or the remaining time until expiration.

[0121] Also, for example, the timing of displaying the home screen 50 is not limited to the example shown. For example, it may be displayed by detecting the approach of the user, or it may be displayed regularly. Also, although it was assumed that the notification information is not displayed when returning from the setting screen to the home screen 50, it may be displayed. Also, in this embodiment, when an operation on all the setting icons 90 is received, a detailed setting screen 91 including various setting buttons 91 1 is displayed, and when an operation on the various setting buttons 911 is received, ​​​​Assume that various setting screens 92 including the trial mode button 921 are displayed, but the detailed setting screen 91 may include trial mode information, and further accept a selection operation on the various setting screens 92 and the trial mode information may be included in the screen displayed after the selection operation.

[0122] Also, for example, the expiration date may be stored in the MFP1, and the MFP1 may manage the expiration date. However, by managing it on the server 3, there is a high possibility of appropriate management. Also, in this embodiment it is assumed that the trial mode is not automatically terminated even if the communication with the server 3 is abnormal. However, the trial mode may be forcibly terminated when response information cannot be obtained continuously for a predetermined number of times. In that case, it is advisable to notify that the trial mode has ended even after the trial mode has ended.

[0123] Also, when receiving an instruction to enable an additional function, it may be determined whether it is within the trial mode period. And if all additional functions are enabled within the trial mode period, the trial mode may be terminated. Also, for example, when the response information to the command for checking the expiration date of the trial mode is outside the expiration date, check the activation status of the additional function, and if all additional functions are enabled, the trial mode may be terminated without notification. Also, in this embodiment, the MFP1 has a plurality of additional functions and can be individually enabled. However, there may be only one additional function. Also, in the trial mode, it is assumed that all additional functions can be tried. However, trials may be accepted for each function.

[0124] Also, in this embodiment, a trial switch 28 is provided separately from the function switches 25 to 27. However, it is not limited to this. For example, as the states of the function switches 25 to 27, off and on. There may also be a state during the trial mode. And when the trial mode is started, MF P1 may switch all the function switches 25 to 27 that are not on to the state during the trial mode. Also, after the end of the trial mode, instead of changing the state of the trial switch 28 to "executed", MFP1 may delete the trial switch 28. Also, the information on the execution of the trial mode may be stored by the server 3.

[0125] Also, for example, in this embodiment, the additional functions are mounted on the MFP1 as function programs 22 to 24 at the time of factory shipment. However, there may be functions that can be mounted after factory shipment. For example, the MFP1 may be capable of mounting new additional functions by firmware update. The timing of the firmware update is independent of the valid period of the trial mode. Therefore, for example, new additional functions may be mounted within the valid period of the trial mode. When the new additional functions can be tried due to the firmware update, the MFP1 receives a trial instruction with the setting information used by the function initialized. However, the MFP1 does not transmit the firmware update information to the server 3, and the valid period of the trial mode is not changed.

[0126] Also, in any sequence diagram disclosed in the embodiment, the plurality of processes in any plurality of steps can be arbitrarily changed in the execution order or executed in parallel within a range where there is no contradiction in the processing content.

[0127] Also, the processes disclosed in the embodiment can be executed by a single CPU, a plurality of CPUs, an ASIC, etc. It may be executed by any hardware or a combination thereof. Also, in the embodiments The disclosed processes can be realized in various forms such as a recording medium storing a program for executing the processes, or a method.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0128] 1 MFP 11 CPU 12 Memory 13 User IF 15 Printing Engine 16 Scanner

Claims

1. An image processing unit; A user interface; Memory, A computer, An image processing device comprising: The image processing device has a plurality of functions including a special function, and the memory stores the special function. Function information indicating whether a function is enabled or disabled is stored, and the function information is When the image processing device is shipped from the factory, the special function is disabled; The computer includes: When an enable instruction for enabling the special function is received, the enable instruction is stored in the memory. The function information is changed to information indicating the validity of the special function, so that the special function can be used. Enable The computer further comprises: When a start instruction to start the trial mode is received, a start instruction to start the trial mode is received. By executing the process, even if the function information indicates that the special function is disabled, During the validity period of the trial mode, the special function is made available, and the trial mode is terminated. After starting, the trial mode is terminated based on the expiration of the validity period of the trial mode. death, The computer further comprises: A standby screen can be displayed on the user interface, and the standby screen The display shows the controls for setting or displaying information for each function, and the buttons for displaying notification information. a notification area for displaying a notification information, the notification information includes a plurality of types, and the plurality of types of notification information include a notification area for displaying a notification information. The information includes trial mode information indicating that the trial mode is within a valid period, The information has a display priority. The computer further comprises: A display process for displaying the notification information in the notification area is executed. At a first timing during a period in which the trial mode is valid, the state of the image processing device is In a state in which high priority information, which is the notification information having a higher priority than trial mode information, is to be displayed If not, the trial mode information is displayed in the notification area, and the state of the image processing device is If the high priority information should be displayed, the high priority information is displayed in the notification area. not displaying the trial mode information in the notification area; 13. An image processing device comprising:

2. 2. The image processing device according to claim 1, The computer includes: The function information is updated by receiving the enable instruction during the valid period of the trial mode. When the information is changed to information indicating the enablement of the special function to enable the special function, After the trial mode ends, the special features remain enabled and you may continue to use the special features. Enable 13. An image processing device comprising:

3. 3. The image processing device according to claim 1, The computer includes: In the display process, when there are a plurality of pieces of notification information that are to be displayed, In the notification area, one of the plurality of pieces of notification information that is in a state to be displayed is displayed, not display multiple notification information at the same time; 13. An image processing device comprising:

4. 4. The image processing device according to claim 3, The computer includes: In the display process, at the first timing during a valid period of the trial mode, If the state of the image processing device is such that the high priority information should be displayed, and then displaying the high priority information in the notification area, and thereafter displaying the high priority information in the status of the image processing device. If the trial mode is within the valid period when the state where the trial mode should be performed is no longer in effect, in the notification area; 13. An image processing device comprising:

5. 5. The image processing device according to claim 1, The computer includes: The display process includes displaying information on consumables that are installed in the image processing device. displaying the information as the high priority information in the notification area; 13. An image processing device comprising:

6. 6. The image processing device according to claim 1, The computer includes: In the display process, at the first timing during a valid period of the trial mode, If the state of the image processing device is such that the high priority information should be displayed, After a certain period of time has elapsed, the display of the notification area is turned off. Switching to the trial mode information; 13. An image processing device comprising:

7. 6. The image processing device according to claim 1, The computer includes: A notification screen different from the standby screen can be displayed on the user interface. It is Noh, The computer further comprises: The image processing device is in a state where the image processing unit is used to Error information is information about an error condition that makes it impossible to execute a specified function. an error display process for displaying the notification screen including the error information when the error display screen should be displayed; Implement the theory, The computer further comprises: If the image processing device is not in a state in which the error information should be displayed, At the first timing during a period in which the mode is valid, the state of the image processing device is If the high priority information is not to be displayed, the trial mode information is displayed in the notification area. If the state of the image processing device is such that the high priority information should be displayed, displaying the trial mode information in the notification area and not displaying the trial mode information in the notification area; Execute the display process, 13. An image processing device comprising:

8. 8. The image processing device according to claim 7, The computer includes: In the display process, at the first timing during a valid period of the trial mode, If the state of the image processing device is such that the high priority information should be displayed, After a certain period of time has elapsed, the display of the notification area is turned off. The trial mode information is switched to, and in the error display process, the notification screen is displayed, and then: Continue displaying the notification screen even after the certain period of time has elapsed.

13. An image processing device comprising:

9. 9. The image processing device according to claim 1, The computer includes: When it is detected that the remaining valid period of the trial mode is shorter than a threshold, The notification information is expiration information indicating that the validity period of the mode is about to expire, Can be displayed in the notification area, The computer further comprises: In the display process, at the first timing during a valid period of the trial mode, The image processing device is not in a state in which the high priority information should be displayed, and If the situation does not require the display of the upcoming information, the trial mode information is displayed in the notification area. If the image processing device is in a state where the expiration date is about to expire, the expiration date is displayed. displaying the expiration imminent information in the notification area and not displaying the trial mode information in the notification area; The image processing device is not in a state in which the expiration date is about to expire and the high priority If the state is such that the high priority information should be displayed, the high priority information is displayed in the notification area and the trial Do not display mode information in the notification area; 13. An image processing device comprising:

10. 9. The image processing device according to claim 1, The computer includes: At a second timing after the validity period of the trial mode has expired, the trial mode is Exit the program and The computer further comprises: A third time after the validity period of the trial mode has expired and before the second timing is reached. At the timing, end information indicating the end of the trial mode is sent to the user interface. Execute the end display process to display the 13. An image processing device comprising:

11. 9. The image processing device according to claim 1, The computer includes: The notification information is information indicating that the validity period of the trial mode is unknown. Can be displayed in the notification area, The computer further comprises: In the display process, at the first timing during a valid period of the trial mode, The image processing device is not in a state in which the high priority information should be displayed, and the unknown information If the state is not one in which the trial mode information should be displayed, the trial mode information is displayed in the notification area, and the image If the state of the processing device is such that the unknown information should be displayed, the unknown information is displayed in the notification area. and the trial mode information is not displayed in the notification area, and the state of the image processing device is If the unknown information is not in a state where it should be displayed and the high priority information is in a state where it should be displayed, displaying the high priority information in the notification area and displaying the trial mode information in the notification area; do not have, 13. An image processing device comprising:

12. 12. The image processing device according to claim 1, The computer includes: The processing execution information indicating that a predetermined processing not depending on the special function is being executed is The notification information can be displayed in the notification area, The computer further comprises: In the display process, the image processing apparatus is in a state where the process execution information should be displayed. In the case of (a), the state of the image processing device is not a state in which the high priority information should be displayed, and If the trial mode information is not to be displayed, the process execution information is used as the notification information. and displaying it in the notification area, The computer further comprises: In the display process, at the first timing during a valid period of the trial mode, If the image processing device is not in a state where the high priority information should be displayed, and then, when a certain period of time has elapsed, the status of the image processing device is displayed in the notification area. If the state of the notification area is such that the information on the process being executed should be displayed, the display of the notification area is changed to the information on the process being executed. Switch to medium information, 13. An image processing device comprising:

13. 13. The image processing device according to claim 1, The computer includes: The standby screen, on which text corresponding to the notification information is displayed in the notification area, is displayed to the user. It is possible to display the The computer further comprises: In the display process, at the first timing during a valid period of the trial mode, If the image processing device is not in a state where the high priority information should be displayed, a first text corresponding to the notification information is displayed in the notification area; If the high priority information is to be displayed, the second text corresponding to the high priority information is displayed in front of the in the notification area and not display the first text in the notification area; 13. An image processing device comprising:

14. 14. The image processing device according to claim 13, The computer includes: The operators corresponding to the respective functions are arranged in the standby screen in the longitudinal direction of the standby screen. The area in which the operators are arranged is scrollable in the longitudinal direction of the standby screen. Furthermore, the longitudinal and lateral directions of the notification area are also the longitudinal and lateral directions of the standby screen. The length of the notification area in the longitudinal direction is the same as the length of the short side of the notification area. The ratio of the length of the standby screen in the longitudinal direction to the length of the standby screen in the lateral direction is greater than the ratio of the length of the standby screen in the longitudinal direction to the length of the standby screen in the lateral direction. the standby screen can be displayed on the user interface, The computer further comprises: In the display process, the notification information is displayed in the notification area as a single line with characters arranged in the longitudinal direction. Display in text, 13. An image processing device comprising:

15. 13. The image processing device according to claim 1, The computer includes: displaying a notification image corresponding to the content of the notification information in the notification area; The computer further comprises: In the display process, at the first timing during a valid period of the trial mode, If the image processing device is not in a state where the high priority information should be displayed, a first notification image corresponding to the notification image code information is displayed in the notification area; If the state of the processing device is such that the high priority information should be displayed, A second notification image, which is the notification image corresponding to the first notification image, is displayed in the notification area. Do not display in the knowledge area, 13. An image processing device comprising:

Images