Image processing device and control method

Abstract

To provide an image processing device and the like that enable a job setting history requiring authentication information to be appropriately utilized.SOLUTION: An image processing device comprises: a setting-history memorizing part that memorizes a setting-history which is a history of setting values at the time of executing a job; a list display part that displays the setting-history; a setting-screen display part that when the setting-history is selected, displays a setting-screen inputted with the setting values included in the selected setting-history; and a job executing part that executes the job on the basis of the setting values inputted to the setting-screen, where the list display part displays the list including the setting-history requiring authentication information when executing the job based on the setting values.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an image processing apparatus and the like.

Background Art

[0002] Some image processing apparatuses such as multifunction printers have a retention function that stores data used for output in the image processing apparatus and outputs the data based on a user's operation. Further, there are also those equipped with a function to protect the data and restrict the output of the data by requiring authentication information such as a password when referring to the stored data, thereby ensuring security.

[0003] Also, technologies related to the parent expansion printing function have been proposed. For example, there has been proposed an image processing apparatus that permits the execution of processing on data even when an authenticated user stores data in a user area assigned to another user different from the authenticated user, provided that the data is limited to the data stored by the authenticated user himself / herself (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Some image processing apparatuses store a setting history including setting values related to the execution of jobs in a reusable manner. Here, some of the setting history contains information such as setting values indicating the storage destination of protected data, and security problems may occur if reused as it is. On the other hand, restricting the display of the content of the setting history including setting values indicating the storage destination of protected data, etc., for the reason of ensuring security, may impair usability. Therefore, there is an issue of making the setting history appropriately available while ensuring security. However, in the prior art such as Patent Document 1, the above-described issues have not been considered.

[0006] In view of the above-described problems, an object of the present disclosure is to provide an image processing apparatus or the like that enables appropriate use of the setting history of a job that requires authentication information.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] In order to solve the above-described problems, an image processing apparatus according to the present disclosure includes a setting history storage unit that stores a setting history, which is a history of setting values at the time of job execution, a list display unit that displays a list of the setting history, a setting screen display unit that displays a setting screen in which the setting values included in the selected setting history are input when the setting history is selected, and a job execution unit that executes a job based on the setting values input to the setting screen. The list display unit is characterized by displaying a list including the setting history that requires authentication information when executing a job based on the setting values.

[0008] The control method according to the present disclosure is a control method for an image processing apparatus, and includes a setting history storage step of storing a setting history that is a history of setting values during job execution, a list display step of displaying the setting history in a list, a setting screen display step of displaying a setting screen in which the setting values included in the selected setting history are input when the setting history is selected, and a job execution step of executing a job based on the setting values input to the setting screen. The list display step is characterized by displaying in a list including the setting history that requires authentication information when executing a job based on the setting value.

Effects of the Invention

[0009] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an image processing apparatus that can appropriately utilize the setting history of a job that requires authentication information.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, an embodiment for implementing the present disclosure will be described. Note that the following embodiments are examples for explaining the present disclosure, and the technical scope of the invention described in the claims is not limited to the following description.

[0012] [1. First Embodiment] [1.1 Functional Configuration] The first embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of the image processing apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment, and FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the image processing apparatus 10.

[0013] The image processing apparatus 10 is a device having functions such as a copy function, a print function, a scanner function, and an image transmission function such as a fax, and is generally called a digital multi-functional peripheral (MFP; Multi-Function Peripheral / Printer). The image processing apparatus 10 may be an image forming apparatus provided with means for forming an image on a recording sheet using means such as an electrophotographic method.

[0014] The image processing apparatus 10 includes a control unit 100, an image input unit 120, an image forming unit 130, a display unit 140, an operation unit 150, a storage unit 160, and a communication unit 190.

[0015] The control unit 100 is a functional unit for controlling the entire image processing apparatus 10. The control unit 100 realizes various functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 160, and is configured by, for example, one or more arithmetic units (CPU (Central Processing Unit)) or the like. Further, the control unit 100 may be configured as a SoC (System on a Chip) having a plurality of functions among the functions described below.

[0016] By executing the program stored in the storage unit 160, the control unit 100 functions as an image processing unit 102, a job execution unit 104, a list display unit 106, a setting screen display unit 108, and a setting history information storage unit 110.

[0017] The image processing unit 102 performs processing on various images. For example, the image processing unit 102 executes edge enhancement processing and tone conversion processing on the image input by the image input unit 120.

[0018] The job execution unit 104 executes, in job units, the processing associated with the execution of each function such as the copy function, print function, scanner function, and image transmission function provided in the image processing apparatus 10. In particular, the job execution unit 104 executes a job based on the set values of the setting items provided for each function to be executed. The setting items are, for example, the number of output copies, the color mode at the time of output, the magnification at the time of output, the destination of the scanned data, and the like. The set values are input via the setting screen displayed by the setting screen display unit 108 described later.

[0019] The list display unit 106 reads out the setting history information stored in the setting history information storage area 164 described later, and displays the information included in the setting history information in a list on the display unit 140.

[0020] The setting screen display unit 108 displays a setting screen corresponding to each function provided in the image processing apparatus 10. The setting screen is a screen that displays the set values for each setting item corresponding to the function to be executed and accepts operations for changing the set values. Further, the setting screen display unit 108 of the present embodiment reads out the set values stored in the setting history information described later, and displays a setting screen that reflects the read set values.

[0021] The setting history information storage unit 110 stores setting history information including the set values at the time of job execution when a job is executed. That is, the setting history information is information on the history of the set values at the time of job execution.

[0022] The image input unit 120 inputs image data into the image processing apparatus 10. For example, the image input unit 120 is constituted by a scanning device or the like capable of reading an image and generating image data. The scanning device converts an image into an electrical signal by an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CIS (Contact Image Sensor), and generates digital data by quantizing and encoding the electrical signal.

[0023] The image forming unit 130 forms (prints) an image on a recording medium such as a recording sheet. The image forming unit 130 is constituted by, for example, a laser printer or the like using an electrophotographic method. The image forming unit 130 feeds a recording sheet from the paper feed tray 132 in FIG. 1, forms an image on the surface of the recording sheet, and discharges the recording sheet from the discharge tray 134.

[0024] The display unit 140 displays various information. The display unit 140 is constituted by, for example, a display device such as an LCD (Liquid crystal display), an organic EL (electro-luminescence) display, or a micro LED display.

[0025] The operation unit 150 receives operations of a user who uses the image processing apparatus 10. The operation unit 150 is constituted by an input device such as a touch sensor. The method of detecting an input in the touch sensor may be a general detection method such as a resistive film method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, or a capacitance method. Note that the image processing apparatus 10 may be equipped with a touch panel in which the display unit 140 and the operation unit 150 are integrally formed.

[0026] The storage unit 160 stores various programs and various data necessary for the operation of the image processing apparatus 10. The storage unit 160 is constituted by, for example, a storage device such as an SSD (Solid State Drive) which is a semiconductor memory or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive).

[0027] The storage unit 160 secures, as storage areas, a job data storage area 162, a setting history information storage area 164, and a job history information storage area 166.

[0028] The job data storage area 162 stores job data. The job data is data input to the image processing apparatus 10 for use in executing a job. For example, the job data may be data input for performing image formation via the image forming unit 130 (data of an image to be formed), or data input via the image input unit 120 during copying or scanning. The job data is, for example, image data, data in PDF (Portable Document Format), or data including commands interpretable by the control unit 100 (print data), etc.

[0029] With reference to FIG. 3, an overview of the job data storage area 162 will be described. The job data stored in the job data storage area 162 is data input by the following method. Note that the following reference numerals correspond to those in FIG. 3. (1) Data input from a terminal device such as a PC (Personal Computer) The data input from the terminal device is data to be printed or transmitted by the image processing apparatus 10. The job data input from the terminal device is, for example, copy data, print data, PC-FAX transmission data, scan transmission data, fax transmission data, Internet FAX transmission data, etc. (2) Data transmitted from another facsimile apparatus The data transmitted from another facsimile apparatus is data received via a facsimile line, and is, for example, fax reception data or Internet FAX reception data. (3) Data input by the image input unit 120 The data input by the image input unit 120 is, for example, image data of a document read by a scanning device constituting the image input unit 120.

[0030] The above-described job data is filed or automatically temporarily stored in the image processing apparatus 10. Filing means storing in a storage area for filing (for example, R100 in FIG. 3). On the other hand, automatic temporary storage means temporarily storing in a storage area for automatic temporary storage (for example, R104 in FIG. 3). Note that the automatically temporarily stored job data may be automatically deleted by the image processing apparatus 10 at a predetermined time, such as when a job is executed or when a predetermined storage period has elapsed.

[0031] Whether to file or automatically temporarily store is selected by the user or automatically selected based on the settings of the image processing apparatus 10. Note that job data based on data transmitted from other facsimile apparatuses is only filed.

[0032] Job data is stored as a file in a predetermined format, for example. The stored file is, for example, a PDF file or an image file in a commonly used format. In the present embodiment, the job data stored in the job data storage area 162 is described as a file. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that there are the following two types of files as the files stored in the job data storage area 162. (1) Parent exhibition attribute file The parent exhibition attribute file is a file of job data (parent exhibition data) that requires authentication information such as a password when read. The authentication information may be included in the parent exhibition attribute file itself as file attributes or file contents, or may be managed in association with the parent exhibition attribute file. (2) Shared file The shared file is a file of job data (shared data) that does not require authentication information when read.

[0033] The parent-expanded attribute file and the shared file may be distinguishable from the attributes of the file. For example, a file stored as job data may include an attribute of the parent-expanded setting indicating that authentication information is required. In this case, for the parent-expanded attribute file, the attribute value of the parent-expanded setting is set to "parent-expanded" or "Yes". For the shared file, the attribute value of the parent-expanded setting is set to "shared" or "No", or the attribute value may not be stored. Thus, it is possible to distinguish whether a file is a parent-expanded attribute file from the attribute value of the parent-expanded setting.

[0034] The job data storage area 162 may have a plurality of areas for storing job data. The area for storing job data is, for example, a folder. The job data storage area 162 may be, for example, a filing folder (filing folder), and a shared folder (e.g., the "shared folder" F100 in FIG. 3) and a parent-expanded folder (e.g., the "parent-expanded folder" F102 in FIG. 3) may be provided in the storage area for filing.

[0035] The shared folder and the parent-expanded folder are folders in which job data with a file name, a user name, etc. set is stored, and the parent-expanded attribute file and the shared file can be stored. For example, the "shared folder" F100 includes a parent-expanded attribute file (e.g., the "copy data" F100a in FIG. 3) and a shared file (e.g., the "print data" F100b in FIG. 3).

[0036] On the other hand, the shared folder and the parent-expanded folder differ in whether authentication information is required when referring to the folder. The shared folder does not require authentication information at the time of reference (access). On the other hand, the parent-expanded folder is a folder with authentication information set, and authentication information is required at the time of reference (access). The authentication information for the parent-expanded folder is, for example, a PIN (Personal Identification Number) or a folder password. The authentication information may be included in the parent-expanded attribute file itself as an attribute of the folder, or may be managed in association with the parent-expanded folder.

[0037] In addition, the job data storage area 162 provides a temporary storage folder (the "temporary storage folder" F104 in FIG. 3) in the storage area for automatic temporary storage. Job data is temporarily stored in the temporary storage folder. Note that the temporary storage folder is a shared folder that does not require authentication information when being referenced, and can store only shared files.

[0038] From the above, in this embodiment, among the files (job data) stored in the job data storage area 162, the following files require authentication information when being read. (1) The parent development attribute file stored in the parent development folder When referring to the parent development attribute file stored in the parent development folder, the authentication information set in the parent development folder and the authentication information set in the parent development attribute file are required. (2) The shared file stored in the parent development folder When referring to the shared file stored in the parent development folder, the authentication information set in the parent development folder is required. (3) The parent development attribute file stored in the shared folder When referring to the parent development attribute file stored in the shared folder, the authentication information set in the parent development attribute file is required.

[0039] Note that in this embodiment, the files that require authentication information when being read are described as protected files. On the other hand, the shared files stored in the shared folder do not require authentication information when being read.

[0040] The setting history information storage area 164 stores setting history information. The setting history information includes, for example, as shown in FIG. 4, a job ID (e.g., "0025") that identifies a job, the type of job executed (e.g., "printing"), the setting values at the time of execution of the job (e.g., "output tray: tray 1, single-sided / double-sided: single-sided → single-sided, stapling: no-needle stapling, storage destination: parent exhibition folder, file name: Copy_20210401_162050"), and the execution date and time of the job (e.g., "2021 / 04 / 01 16:20:50").

[0041] The job type included in the setting history information is information indicating the functions (e.g., copy, print, scan, image transmission) of the image processing apparatus 10 corresponding to the jobs executed by the user. As the job type, the name of the function or a code for specifying the function is stored.

[0042] In addition, the setting values include information regarding the storage destination and file name (data name) of the files (job data) output or stored during job execution. For example, the setting values include information about the folder that is the storage destination of the file (e.g., "parent exhibition folder") and the file name of the file stored in the folder (e.g., "Copy_20210401_162050"). The setting history information shown in D100 of FIG. 4 indicates that it is the setting history information of a print job that output job data with the file name "Copy_20210401_162050" stored in the parent exhibition folder.

[0043] The job history information storage area 166 stores information on the history of executed jobs (job history information). The job history information includes, for example, as shown in FIG. 5, a job ID that identifies a job (e.g., "0025"), the type of the executed job (e.g., "printing"), the execution date and time of the job (e.g., "2021 / 04 / 01 16:20:50"), and the processing status of the job (e.g., "completed"). Different from the setting history information, the job history information is information indicating the execution history of a job. Therefore, it does not include information on the set values at the time of job execution. The job history information is generated and stored, for example, immediately after the completion of a job or after the setting history information is generated.

[0044] The communication unit 190 communicates with external devices via a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network). The communication unit 190 is composed of, for example, a communication device or a communication module such as a NIC (Network Interface Card) used in a wired / wireless LAN.

[0045] Note that the communication unit 190 may communicate with other devices via a telephone line. In this case, the communication unit 190 is composed of an interface (terminal) into which a cable for connecting to the telephone line can be inserted, and performs facsimile communication using a known standard or protocol such as the G3 / G4 standard to transmit and receive images with other devices.

[0046] [1.2 Flow of Processing] Next, with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, the flow of processing executed by the image processing apparatus 10 in the present embodiment will be described. The processing shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 is executed by reading out a program stored in the storage unit 160 by the control unit 100 of the image processing apparatus 10.

[0047] In the following description, it is assumed that the storage unit 160 of the image processing apparatus 10 stores predetermined setting history information and job data corresponding to the setting history information. Also, the image processing apparatus 10 of the present embodiment will be described for the case where user authentication of the user using the image processing apparatus 10 is not performed (when user authentication is invalid and in a non-authenticated state).

[0048] [1.2.1 Main Processing] First, with reference to FIG. 6, the main processing (main processing) executed by the image processing apparatus 10 will be described. First, the control unit 100 determines whether an operation to display a list of setting history information has been performed by the user (step S100).

[0049] When an operation to display a list of setting history information has been performed, the control unit 100 (list display unit 106) displays a list of the setting history information on the display unit 140, including the setting history information that requires authentication information (step S100; Yes → step S102). The setting history information that requires authentication information refers to the setting history information for which input of authentication information is required when the setting history information is called and a job using the setting value stored in the setting history information is executed.

[0050] The setting history information that requires authentication information is the following setting history information. (1) Setting history information of a job for outputting a protected file A job for outputting a protected file is a printing job (parent exhibition printing job) that outputs an image based on the protected file (job data) by printing, or an image transmission job that outputs the protected file to an external device by transmitting it. Therefore, the setting values of the setting history information of these jobs include the storage destination and file name of the protected file. When a job based on the setting history information of a job for outputting a protected file is executed, the protected file is read by the job execution unit 104, so authentication information set in the parent exhibition folder and authentication information set in the parent exhibition attribute file are required. In the following description, a job for outputting an image based on a file (job data) by printing is also described as a job for printing (outputting) a file.

[0051] (2) Setting history information of a job for storing a file in the parent exhibition folder A job for storing a file in the parent exhibition folder is a job for storing the image data input by the image input unit 120 in the parent exhibition folder at the time of copying or scanning. Therefore, the setting values of the setting history information of these jobs include information on the parent exhibition folder as the storage destination. When a job based on the setting history information of a job for storing a file in the parent exhibition folder is executed, the parent exhibition folder is referenced by the job execution unit 104, so authentication information set in the parent exhibition folder is required.

[0052] In the embodiment, a job for outputting a protected file and a job for storing a file in the parent exhibition folder are also referred to as parent exhibition jobs. The setting history information of the parent exhibition job will have the storage destination and file name of the protected file to be output, and the setting value of the storage destination of the file to be stored called. When a job that uses such setting values is executed, authentication information is required.

[0053] Note that authentication information is not required for the setting history information of jobs that are not the parent development job. In step S102, for example, the list display unit 106 reads out the setting history information from the setting history information storage area 164 in descending order of execution date and time for a predetermined number (e.g., 5 items), and displays a screen (setting history information display screen) with the information included in the read setting history information as list items for each setting history information.

[0054] Note that when the list display unit 106 displays the setting history information, it may display the setting history information that requires authentication information and the setting history information that does not require authentication information in a distinguishable manner. Also, the list display unit 106 may display the setting values (storage destination and file name of the protected file) that require authentication information when the job is executed.

[0055] Note that when an operation other than the operation for displaying the setting history information is performed by the user, the control unit 100 executes a predetermined process according to the operation input by the user and returns to step S100 (step S100; No → step S104 → step S100).

[0056] Subsequently, the control unit 100 determines whether or not one piece of setting history information is selected on the setting history information display screen (step S106). If no setting history information is selected, the control unit 100 repeats the process in step S106 (step S106; No).

[0057] On the one hand, when the setting history information is selected, the control unit 100 (setting screen display unit 108) displays the setting screen based on the selected setting history information on the display unit 140 (step S106; Yes → step S108). For example, the setting screen display unit 108 displays a setting screen including setting items corresponding to the job type included in the setting history information. Further, the setting screen display unit 108 sets the setting values included in the selected setting history information to be input as the setting values of the corresponding setting items. In this way, the setting screen display unit 108 displays the setting screen (the setting screen in which the setting history information is called and the setting values of the setting history information are reflected) in which the setting values included in the setting history information are input. Note that the setting screen display unit 108 may display the setting values (storage destinations and file names of protected files) for which authentication information is required during job execution on the setting screen, or may display an identification display indicating that authentication information is required during job execution.

[0058] Subsequently, the control unit 100 determines whether the selected setting history information includes setting values that require authentication information (step S110). The case where the setting values that require authentication information are included is as follows. (1) When the job type includes information on functions related to file output such as "printing" and "image transmission", and the setting values include the storage destination and file name of a protected file. (2) When the job type includes information on functions related to file storage such as "scan and save", and the setting values include the parent expansion folder as the storage destination.

[0059] When the control unit 100 determines that the selected setting history information includes setting values that require authentication information, it determines that the input of authentication information is required (step S110; Yes → step S112). On the other hand, when the control unit 100 determines that the selected setting history information does not include setting values that require authentication information, it determines that the input of authentication information is not required (step S110; No → step S114).

[0060] Subsequently, the control unit 100 (job execution unit 104) executes a process (job execution process) of executing a job based on the set values input on the setting screen (step S116). The job execution process will be described later. Note that the job execution unit 104 issues a job ID when executing a job or after job execution, and stores job history information including the job ID in the job history information storage area 166.

[0061] Subsequently, the control unit 100 (setting history information storage unit 110) stores setting history information regarding the executed job in the setting history information storage area 164 (step S118). For example, the setting history information storage unit 110 generates setting history information including the job ID issued in step S114, the job type of the executed job, the set values of the executed job, and the execution date and time of the job, and stores it in the setting history information storage area 164.

[0062] [1.2.2 Job Execution Process] The job execution process will be described with reference to FIG. 7. The job execution process is executed by the job execution unit 104.

[0063] First, when an operation to change the settings is performed by the user, the job execution unit 104 changes the job settings (step S120; Yes → step S122). For example, the control unit 100 changes settings such as the number of printed copies, color mode, paper size, and printing density according to the user's operation. At this time, the job execution unit 104 may not permit changing the storage destination or file name of the file when the setting screen for outputting the file is displayed, or may not permit changing the storage destination of the file when the setting screen for storing the file is displayed. That is, the job execution unit 104 may restrict the setting items for which the set values can be changed. Note that when no operation to change the settings is performed, the control unit 100 omits the process in step S122 (step S120; No).

[0064] Subsequently, the job execution unit 104 determines whether an operation to execute a job has been performed by the user (step S124). The operation to start a job is, for example, an operation of selecting a trigger button for each function, such as a start button. If the operation to start the job has not been performed, the job execution unit 104 returns to step S120 (step S124; No → step S120).

[0065] On the other hand, if an operation to execute the job has been performed, the job execution unit 104 determines whether it is necessary to input authentication information based on the determination results in steps S112 and S114 of FIG. 6 (step S124; Yes → step S126). If it is not necessary to input authentication information, the job execution unit 104 executes the job based on the set values input via the setting screen (step S126; No → step S134).

[0066] On the other hand, if it is necessary to input authentication information, the job execution unit 104 determines whether correct authentication information has been obtained from the user (step S126; Yes → step S128). If correct authentication information has not been obtained, the job execution unit 104 requests the user to input authentication information (step S128; Yes → step S130). For example, the job execution unit 104 displays a password input screen on the display unit 140 that displays a message dialog for obtaining authentication information. Here, when the job execution unit 104 outputs a protected file, it requests the authentication information necessary for reading the file. Also, when the job execution unit 104 stores a file in the parent folder, it requests the authentication information set for the parent folder.

[0067] Subsequently, the job execution unit 104 acquires the authentication information input by the user (step S132). If the acquired authentication information is different from the set authentication information, the job execution unit 104 may display an error message and then execute the process of step S130 again to request the authentication information from the user. If the job execution unit 104 acquires the correct authentication information, it returns to step S120 (step S132 → step S120).

[0068] Note that if the job execution unit 104 determines in step S128 that it has already acquired the correct authentication information, it executes the job (step S128; No → step S134). That is, when the input of authentication information is required, the job execution unit 104 requests the authentication information when the operation of executing the job is performed for the first time, and executes the job without requesting the authentication information when the operation of executing the job is performed again. In this way, in response to the operation of starting the job via the setting screen, the job execution unit 104 acquires the authentication information, and when the operation of starting the job again is performed after acquiring the authentication information, it executes the job.

[0069] [1.3 Operation Example] Subsequently, the operation example of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the home screen W100. The home screen W1000 is a basic screen displayed on the display unit 140 when the power is turned on, during standby, when recovering from the sleep state, etc.

[0070] The home screen W1000 includes a region E1000 where buttons for switching the operation mode of the image processing apparatus 10 are arranged. In particular, the region E1000 includes a "Recent Jobs" button B1000 for displaying the setting history information.

[0071] FIG. 8(b) is a diagram showing an example of a setting history information display screen W1010 that is displayed when the "Recent Jobs" button B1000 is selected by the user. The setting history information display screen W1010 displays the setting history information of the most recently executed jobs as "Recent Jobs". For example, the setting history information display screen W1010 includes a list E1010 in which the setting history information is displayed in a selectable list. The user can select one piece of selected history information from the list E1010.

[0072] The list E1010 displays setting history information that requires authentication information and setting history information that does not require authentication information. As a result, the user can check the content of the setting history information regardless of whether authentication information is required or not. Note that an identification display (for example, icon P1010) may be displayed for the setting history information that requires authentication information. The user can grasp that the setting history information with the icon P1010 displayed is the setting history information that requires authentication information.

[0073] When the user selects one piece of setting history information E1012 included in the list E1010, a setting screen based on the selected setting history information is displayed. For example, when the setting history information E1012 is the setting history information of a job (parent exhibition printing job) for printing a protected file, a setting screen for printing the protected file is displayed.

[0074] FIG. 9(a) is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen W1020 that is displayed when the setting history information E1012 is selected. The setting screen W1020 is the basic screen of the copy function and is a setting screen in which the setting values included in the setting history information E1012 are reflected.

[0075] In the setting screen W1020, information of the protected file is input (held) as the setting value of the file to be output. However, when the setting screen W1020 is displayed, since the execution of the job for printing the protected file is undetermined, the input of authentication information is not required. The user can change settings such as the number of copies to be printed via the setting screen W1020.

[0076] FIG. 9(b) is a diagram showing an example screen of the setting screen W1030 displayed when the start of the job is instructed. For example, the user can instruct the image processing apparatus 10 to execute a job for printing a protected file by performing an operation of selecting the "Black and White Start" button B1030. As a result, since the execution of the job for printing the protected file is determined, authentication information is required.

[0077] FIG. 10(a) is a diagram showing an example screen of the password input screen W1040 displayed when the input of authentication information is required. For example, when the protected file is a shared file stored in the parent exhibition folder, the input of the authentication information set for the parent exhibition folder required to refer to the parent exhibition folder is required. A message dialog M1040 including an input field for authentication information is displayed on the password input screen W1040. A message prompting the input of the authentication information set for the parent exhibition folder, such as "Please enter the password of the parent exhibition folder using the 10-key", is displayed in the message dialog M1040.

[0078] FIG. 10(b) is a diagram showing an example screen of the setting screen W1050 displayed when the user inputs authentication information. The user inputs authentication information to the input field included in the message dialog M1050 in the setting screen W1050 and selects the "OK" button B1050 to cause the image processing apparatus 10 to acquire the authentication information. When the correct authentication information is acquired, the message dialog M1050 becomes invisible. Note that, when the authentication information is incorrect, a message such as "The password is incorrect" may be displayed.

[0079] In addition, when the protected file is the parent exhibition attribute file stored in the shared folder, a screen that requests the input of the authentication information set in the parent exhibition attribute file is displayed, such as the password input screen W1060 shown in FIG. 11(a). A message dialog M1060 including an input field for authentication information is displayed on the password input screen W1060. A message prompting the input of the authentication information set in the parent exhibition attribute file, such as "Please enter the password of the parent exhibition file with 4 or more and 32 or less alphanumeric symbols in half-width.", is displayed in the message dialog M1060.

[0080] In addition, when the protected file is the parent exhibition attribute file stored in the parent exhibition folder, the input of the authentication information set in the parent exhibition folder and the input of the authentication information set in the parent exhibition attribute file are required.

[0081] FIG. 11(b) is a diagram showing an example screen of the setting screen W1070 after correct authentication information has been acquired. The user can start a job for the image forming apparatus 10 by selecting the "Black and White Start" button B1070 again. At this time, since correct authentication information has already been acquired, the job is executed without requiring the input of authentication information.

[0082] By such an operation, when the user wants to execute the parent exhibition printing job again, for example, the user can select the setting history information of the parent exhibition printing job, and a setting screen reflecting the setting values of the parent exhibition printing job can be displayed. Furthermore, since authentication information is not required at the stage of displaying the setting screen, even if the selected setting history information is incorrect, the user can select another setting history information without inputting authentication information. That is, the user can efficiently select the setting history information and confirm the setting values.

[0083] In the above description, the parent folder printing job for printing a protected file has been described. Similarly, for a job (image transmission job) that transmits a protected file to another device, authentication information is required when the start of the job is instructed.

[0084] Next, as another operation example, a case will be described where the setting history information of a filing job that stores the image data input by the image input unit 120 is selected during copying or image transmission.

[0085] FIG. 12(a) is a diagram showing an example screen of the setting history information display screen W1100. The list displayed on the setting history information display screen W1100 includes the setting history information E1100 of the filing job that stored the image data in the parent folder during copying.

[0086] FIG. 12(b) is a diagram showing an example screen of the setting screen W1110 displayed when the setting history information E1100 is selected. The setting screen W1110 is the basic screen of the copy function. In the area E1110 of the setting screen W1110, it is shown that the setting for filing the image data file is valid. Also, on the setting screen W1110, the information of the parent folder is set as the setting value of the storage destination of the file. However, at the time when the setting screen W1110 is displayed, since the execution of the filing job for storing the file in the parent folder is undetermined, the input of authentication information is not required.

[0087] The user can instruct the image processing apparatus 10 to execute a filing job for storing a file in the parent folder by performing an operation of selecting the "Color Start" button B1110. As a result, since the execution of the filing job for storing the file in the parent folder is determined, authentication information is required.

[0088] FIG. 13(a) is a diagram showing an example of a password input screen W1120 displayed when input of authentication information is requested. Since the storage destination of the file is the parent exhibition folder, a message dialog M1120 for inputting the authentication information set in the parent exhibition folder is displayed on the password input screen W1120.

[0089] When correct authentication information is input and the "Color Start" button is selected again, copying is executed, and the image data of the original manuscript read during copying is stored in the parent exhibition folder.

[0090] In addition, when the file specified from the storage destination and file name of the file included in the set value of the selected setting history information is a parent exhibition attribute file, the state in which the setting value indicating storage of the parent exhibition attribute file is set may be maintained on the setting screen. In this case, when the "Color Start" button is selected, input of authentication information to be set for the file storing the new image data may be requested.

[0091] FIG. 13(b) is a diagram showing an example of a password input screen W1130 displayed when the "Color Start" button is selected in a state where the setting value indicating storage of the parent exhibition attribute file is set. A message dialog M1130 for inputting the authentication information to be set for the file storing the new image data is displayed on the password input screen W1130. The user can input a password via the message dialog M1130 and set the authentication information to be set for the file. After the password is input and an operation to execute the job again is performed, the parent exhibition attribute file with the set password is stored.

[0092] As yet another example, a case where the setting history information of the filing job that stores the scanned image data is selected will be described.

[0093] Fig. 14(a) is a diagram showing an example screen of the setting history information display screen W1200. The list displayed on the setting history information display screen W1200 includes the setting history information E1200 of the filing job that stored the scanned image data in the parent folder.

[0094] Fig. 12(b) is a diagram showing an example screen of the setting screen W1210 that is displayed when the setting history information E1200 is selected. The setting screen W1210 is the basic screen of the scan save function. As shown in the area E1210 of the setting screen W1210, the state where the information of the parent folder is set (input) as the storage destination of the file of the scanned image data is maintained. At this point, since the execution of the filing job to store the file in the parent folder is undetermined, the input of authentication information is not required.

[0095] By performing an operation of selecting the "Start" button B1210, the user can instruct the image processing apparatus 10 to execute a filing job to store the file in the parent folder. As a result, since the execution of the filing job to store the file in the parent folder is determined, authentication information is required.

[0096] Fig. 15(a) is a diagram showing an example screen of the password input screen W1220 that is displayed when the input of authentication information is required. Since the storage destination of the file is the parent folder, a message dialog M1220 for inputting the authentication information set in the parent folder is displayed on the password input screen W1220.

[0097] When the correct authentication information is input and the "Start" button is selected again, the scan is executed, and the image data of the document read during the scan is stored in the parent folder as a PDF file or an image file in a commonly used format.

[0098] In addition, when the file storage format is encrypted PDF, or when the file specified from the storage destination and file name of the file included in the set value of the selected setting history information is the parent expansion attribute file, it may be required to input the password of the encrypted PDF or the authentication information set for the file.

[0099] FIG. 15(b) is a diagram showing an example of a password input screen W1230 on which a message dialog M1230 including an input field for inputting the password of the encrypted PDF or the authentication information set for the file is displayed. The password input by the user is set as the password of the encrypted PDF or the authentication information of the stored file.

[0100] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the timing at which the input of authentication information is required has been described as when an operation to start a job is performed. However, the timing at which the input of authentication information is required may be any timing as long as it is from when the setting history information is selected until a job based on the setting history information is executed. For example, the timing at which the input of authentication information is required may be the timing at which the setting is changed by the user (step S122 in FIG. 7).

[0101] Also, in the above-described embodiment, the authentication information has been described as a password or PIN. In this case, the means (authentication means) for inputting the authentication information is knowledge authentication. However, the authentication means may be possession authentication or biometric authentication.

[0102] As described above, the image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment can display the setting history information of a job that outputs a protected file or stores a file in an area where authentication information is required at the time of reference, without requiring the input of authentication information. Further, even when a setting screen in which the set value included in the setting history information is reflected is displayed, the image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment does not immediately request authentication information, but requests authentication information until the job is executed (for example, until printing starts). As a result, the image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment can easily allow the user to confirm the set value and maintain usability.

[0103] On the other hand, after a setting screen based on the setting history information of a job that outputs a protected file or stores a file in an area where authentication information is required at the time of reference is displayed, the image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment requests authentication information before executing the job. Thereby, the confidentiality and secrecy of the protected file can be ensured, and access to the parent folder can be restricted.

[0104] In particular, there may be security problems if the setting history information of a job related to a file (job data) that requires authentication information is called unconditionally. Therefore, for the sake of security, the setting history information of a file that requires authentication information is not displayed unless authentication information is input, or even if it is displayed, authentication information is requested before a setting screen in which the set values are reflected is displayed. However, even if the setting history information of a job related to a file that requires authentication information is called, the execution of the job based on the setting history information is undetermined. Therefore, since authentication information is requested in a state where the execution of the job is not determined, there is a possibility that an unnecessary request for input of authentication information occurs, and as a result, usability may be impaired. The image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment can maintain usability while ensuring security by requesting authentication information after the setting screen based on the setting history information is displayed and before the job is executed.

[0105] [2. Second Embodiment] Next, the second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment is an embodiment in which, in addition to the processes described in the first embodiment, authentication information is requested before displaying image data such as preview display or thumbnail display of a protected file (for example, image data). This embodiment is obtained by replacing FIG. 7 with FIG. 16. Note that the same reference numerals are given to the same processes, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0106] Referring to FIG. 16, the job execution process in this embodiment will be described. After the job execution unit 104 executes the process in step S120 or step S122, it determines whether a file display operation has been performed (step S200). The file display operation is, for example, an operation of displaying a preview image or a thumbnail image based on the file. Further, the file to be displayed is the file corresponding to the setting history information selected by the user in step S106 of FIG. 6, and is the file specified by the information regarding the storage destination and file name of the file stored in the setting value of the setting history information.

[0107] Subsequently, the job execution unit 104 determines whether it is necessary to input authentication information based on the determination results in steps S112 and S114 of FIG. 6 (step S202). When the input of authentication information is not required, the job execution unit 104 displays an image based on the file (step S202; No → step S210).

[0108] On the other hand, when the input of authentication information is necessary, the job execution unit 104 determines whether correct authentication information has been obtained (step S202; Yes → step S204). When correct authentication information has not been obtained, the job execution unit 104 requests the user for authentication information (step S204; Yes → step S206) and obtains the authentication information input by the user (step S208). When the job execution unit 104 obtains correct authentication information, it displays an image based on the file (step S210). Note that the processes from step S202 to step S208 are the same as the processes from step S126 to step S132.

[0109] Note that when the job execution unit 104 has already obtained correct authentication information in step S204, it omits the processes of step S206 and step S208 and displays an image based on the file (step S204; No → step S210).

[0110] Note that when the job execution unit 104 has acquired the authentication information in step S208, it is determined that the correct authentication information has been acquired in the process of step S128. In this case, the job execution unit 104 can execute the job without requesting the authentication information when executing the job.

[0111] As an operation example of the present embodiment, for example, when the image processing apparatus 10 selects the preview button included in the setting screen W1020 shown in FIG. 9(a) of the first embodiment, the operation corresponds to the operation of displaying a file. When the preview button is selected, the image processing apparatus 10 acquires the authentication information, and after acquiring the authentication information, displays a preview image of the file corresponding to the setting history information selected by the user.

[0112] According to the image processing apparatus of the present embodiment, when displaying image data based on a protected file, by requesting the authentication information, the confidentiality and secrecy of the file can be ensured. On the other hand, since the user can confirm the image data based on the protected file, it becomes possible to more clearly grasp the content of the file corresponding to the selected setting history information.

[0113] [3. Third Embodiment] Next, the third embodiment will be described. The third embodiment is an embodiment in the case where the image processing apparatus in the first embodiment is provided with a user authentication function. In this embodiment, FIG. 2 is replaced with FIG. 17, FIG. 3 is replaced with FIG. 18, FIG. 4 is replaced with FIG. 21, and FIG. 6 is replaced with FIG. 22. Note that the same functional units and the same processes are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.

[0114] [3.1 Functional Configuration] Referring to FIG. 17, the functional configuration of the image processing apparatus 12 in the present embodiment will be described. Different from the image processing apparatus 10, in the storage unit 160 of the image processing apparatus 12, a user information storage area 168 and a folder information storage area 170 are further secured as storage areas.

[0115] First, referring to FIG. 18, an overview of the job data storage area 162 in the present embodiment will be described. In the present embodiment, similar to the first embodiment, a storage area for filing (for example, R400 in FIG. 16) and a storage area for automatic temporary storage (for example, R404 in FIG. 16) are secured.

[0116] The storage area for filing includes, as filing folders, a standard folder (for example, the "standard folder" F400 in FIG. 16) and user folders (for example, the "registered folder 1" F402 and the "registered folder 2" F404 in FIG. 16). The standard folder is a shared folder that can be used by any user. On the other hand, the user folder is a folder that can be used by a user authenticated by the image processing apparatus 10. A user can register one or more folders to be used as registered folders.

[0117] For example, a certain user registers the registered folder 1 and the registered folder 2 as folders to be used. In this case, the user can store a file in which a file name, a user name, etc. are set by designating any one of the standard folder or the registered folder 1 or the registered folder 2 which is the user's own user folder. Note that both the standard folder and the user folder can store a parent development attribute file and a shared file.

[0118] Also, when user information is stored in the image processing apparatus 10 (for example, at the time of account user registration), an arbitrary user folder may be designated as the user's my folder. The my folder is a folder designated as the default storage destination of a file. The my folder may be browsable by a simple operation such as a shortcut function of the folder.

[0119] Also, the folder type of the user folder may be either a shared folder or a parent-expanded folder. For example, registration folder 1 may be a parent-expanded folder, and registration folder 2 may be a shared folder. The folder type may be set by the user or by the administrator of the image processing apparatus 12. Information indicating whether the user folder is a shared folder or a parent-expanded folder is stored as the folder type in the folder information described later.

[0120] The user information storage area 168 stores information (user information) of the user who uses the image processing apparatus 10. The user information includes, for example, as shown in FIG. 19, a user ID (e.g., "UserA") which is identification information for identifying the user, a user name of the user (e.g., "User A"), a password (e.g., "abc123") which is information used for authenticating the user, and a name of the user's my folder (e.g., "registration folder 1").

[0121] Note that the my folder may or may not be stored by the user. Also, the user information may include information other than the information described above.

[0122] The folder information storage area 170 stores information (folder information) of the folders included in the job data storage area 162. The folder information stores, for example, as shown in FIG. 20, a user ID (e.g., "UserA"), a registered name of the folder (e.g., "registration folder 1"), a path indicating the position of the folder (e.g., " / usr / UserA / fld1"), a folder type (e.g., "parent-expanded folder"), and a folder password (e.g., "aaa12345") which is authentication information of the folder.

[0123] In this embodiment, the folder type stores one of "parent expansion folder", "shared folder", and "protected folder". Folder information with the folder type of "parent expansion folder" indicates that the folder specified by the path included in the folder information is the parent expansion folder. Similarly, folder information with the folder type of "shared folder" indicates that the folder specified by the path included in the folder information is the shared folder. Also, folder information with the folder type of "protected folder" indicates that it is a folder that prohibits editing operations such as page movement, deletion, and blank page insertion of the files stored in the folder specified by the path included in the folder information. Note that in this embodiment, a folder with the folder type of "protected folder" is considered to be a type of shared folder.

[0124] Further, as shown in FIG. 20, folder information of a standard folder (D400 in FIG. 20) or a temporary storage folder (D402 in FIG. 20) may be stored in the folder information storage area 170.

[0125] Next, with reference to FIG. 21, the setting history information in this embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 21, the setting history information of this embodiment includes a job ID (for example, "0025") that identifies a job, the type of the executed job (for example, "printing"), a user ID (for example, "UserA") that identifies the user who executed the job, the setting values at the time of executing the job (for example, "output tray: tray 1, single-sided / double-sided: single-sided → single-sided, staple: non-stapled staple, storage destination: registered folder 1, file name: Copy_20210401_162050"), and the execution date and time of the job (for example, "2021 / 04 / 01 16:20:50").

[0126] As described above, in this embodiment, the setting history information is associated with the information of the user who executed the job, the setting value, and the job type. Therefore, for example, the setting history information shown in D300 of FIG. 21 indicates a print job that output job data with the file name "Copy_20210401_162050" to the registration folder 1 of the user whose user ID is "UserA".

[0127] [3.2 Process flow] Next, with reference to FIG. 22, the main process (main process) executed by the image processing apparatus 12 in this embodiment will be described. It is assumed that the user authentication function of the image processing apparatus 12 in this embodiment is valid. In addition, the image processing apparatus 12 will be described as realizing a function of sharing setting history information among a plurality of users. It is described that the group of users who share the setting history information is set in advance.

[0128] First, the control unit 100 performs user authentication (step S400). For example, the control unit 100 displays on the display unit 140 a screen (login screen) for inputting a user ID and a password. The control unit 100 acquires the user ID and password input by the user via the login screen, and determines whether the user information including the acquired user ID and password is stored in the user information storage area 168. When the user information including the acquired user ID and password is stored, the control unit 100 authenticates the user identified by the user ID and identifies the user who operates the image processing apparatus 10.

[0129] After the control unit 100 performs user authentication, it executes the processes in steps S100 to S108. Note that the control unit 100 (list display unit 106) displays, in step S102, the setting history information including either the user ID of the user authenticated in step S400 or the user IDs of other users who share the setting history information with the user.

[0130] Further, when the control unit 100 determines that the setting history information selected by the user includes a setting value that requires authentication information (step S110; Yes), it determines whether the setting history information is the setting history information of the user authenticated in step S400 (step S402).

[0131] For example, when the user ID included in the setting history information selected by the user matches the user ID of the user authenticated in step S400, the control unit 100 determines that it is the setting history information of the authenticated user. In this case, the setting history information selected by the user is the setting history information of the job executed by the user himself / herself. On the other hand, when the user ID included in the setting history information selected by the user does not match the user ID of the user authenticated in step S400, the control unit 100 determines that it is not the setting history information of the authenticated user. In this case, the setting history information selected by the user is the setting history information of the job executed by a user other than the user.

[0132] When the setting history information selected by the user is the setting history information of the authenticated user, the control unit 100 determines that the input of authentication information is unnecessary (step S402; Yes → step S114). That is, the control unit 100 determines that the authentication necessary to read the protected file and the authentication necessary to refer to the parent development folder corresponding to the authenticated user have been performed.

[0133] On the other hand, when the setting history information selected by the user is not the setting history information of the authenticated user, the control unit 100 determines that the input of authentication information is necessary (step S402; No → step S112).

[0134] [3.3 Operation Example] Next, the operation example of this embodiment will be described. In the description of the operation example of this embodiment, it will be described assuming that User A and User B are members of a group that shares setting history information.

[0135] In this embodiment, user authentication is performed by the image processing apparatus 10, and the user who operates the image processing apparatus 10 is identified. For example, user A is identified as the user who operates the image processing apparatus 10. Also, user A can execute a job (filing job) for storing files.

[0136] For example, FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of the setting screen W3000 of the scan storage function. User A stores the file of the scanned image data as a parent exhibition attribute file. At this time, as a setting regarding file storage, user A selects "parent exhibition" as the attribute value of the parent exhibition setting (for example, E3000 in FIG. 23), or sets a password (authentication information) (for example, E3002 in FIG. 23). Thereby, the file of the scanned image data is stored as a protected file.

[0137] Furthermore, user A can print the protected file. Thereby, a job (parent exhibition print job) for printing the protected file can be executed. As a result, the setting history information of the job for printing the protected file is stored.

[0138] Next, with reference to FIG. 24, the case where the setting history information of the job executed by user A is selected while user A is authenticated will be described. FIG. 24(a) is a diagram showing an example of a screen of the setting history information display screen W3010. On the setting history information display screen W3010, the setting history information of the authenticated user (user A) and the setting history information of another user (user B) who shares the setting history information are displayed. Here, user A selects the setting history information of the job executed by user A. Note that the selected setting history information is the setting history information of a job (parent exhibition print job) for printing a protected file.

[0139] FIG. 24(b) is a diagram showing an example screen of a setting screen W3020 based on setting history information selected by user A. By performing an operation of selecting the "Color Start" button B3020, user A can execute a job for printing a protected file.

[0140] Here, since the setting history information selected by the authenticated user A is a job executed by user A, the image forming apparatus 12 determines that input of authentication information is unnecessary. Therefore, even when an operation is performed to execute a job for printing a protected file, authentication information is not required.

[0141] Next, with reference to FIG. 25, a case will be described where, with user B authenticated, setting history information of a job executed by user A is selected. FIG. 25(a) is a diagram showing an example screen of a setting history information display screen W3030. The setting history information display screen W3030 displays the setting history information of the authenticated user (user B) and the setting history information of other users (user A) who share the setting history information. Here, user B selects the setting history information of the job executed by user A. Note that the selected setting history information is the setting history information of a job (parent exhibition printing job) for printing a protected file.

[0142] In this way, an authenticated user can execute a job for outputting a registered folder of another user or a file stored by another user by selecting the setting history information of a job executed by a user other than the user himself / herself. Similarly, an authenticated user can execute a job for storing a file in a registered folder of another user.

[0143] FIG. 25(b) is a diagram showing an example screen of a setting screen W3040 based on the setting history information selected by user B. By performing an operation of selecting the "Color Start" button B3040, user B can execute a job for printing a protected file.

[0144] Here, since the setting history information selected by the authenticated user B is a job executed by a user A different from user B, the image processing apparatus 12 determines that input of authentication information is required. As a result, authentication information is requested.

[0145] FIG. 25(c) is a diagram showing an example of a password input screen W3050 displayed when input of authentication information is requested. On the password input screen W3050, a message dialog M3050 including an input field for authentication information is displayed. User B can input the authentication information necessary to read the protected file and execute a job to print the protected file by selecting the "Color Start" button again.

[0146] In the above-described embodiment, it has been described that a user can register a plurality of user folders, but a configuration may be adopted in which one user folder is assigned to one user. Also, user authentication may be authentication of a group to which one or more users belong. Furthermore, as authentication means for authenticating a user, methods such as possession authentication and biometric authentication may be used in addition to knowledge authentication.

[0147] Also, in the above-described embodiment, whether or not authentication information is required is determined according to whether or not the authenticated user matches the user corresponding to the selected setting history information, but whether or not authentication information is required may be determined by other methods. For example, even when the authenticated user matches the user corresponding to the selected setting history information, if a file stored in a parent development folder other than the my folder is output or a file is stored in a parent development folder other than the my folder, it may be determined that input of authentication information is required.

[0148] According to the image processing apparatus of the present embodiment, even when a user who has executed a job selects setting history information corresponding to the job and the setting history information includes a setting value that requires authentication information, the authentication information is not required. As a result, the convenience of the user can be improved. On the other hand, when a user other than the user who has executed the job selects the setting history information corresponding to the job and the setting history information includes a setting value that requires authentication information, the authentication information is required. Thereby, the confidentiality and secrecy of the file can be ensured.

[0149] [4. Fourth Embodiment] Next, the fourth embodiment will be described. The fourth embodiment is an embodiment in which authentication information is required when, in addition to the processing described in the third embodiment, after a file is stored in a shared folder and the shared folder is changed to a parent development folder. This embodiment is an embodiment in which FIG. 17 of the third embodiment is replaced with FIG. 26. Note that the same functional parts are denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof is omitted.

[0150] Referring to FIG. 26, the functional configuration of the image processing apparatus 14 in the present embodiment will be described. Unlike the image processing apparatus 12, the control unit 100 of the image processing apparatus 14 further functions as a folder information setting unit 112. The folder information setting unit 112 executes a folder information setting process for setting information on folders included in the filing area.

[0151] As the folder information setting process, the folder information setting unit 112 executes the following processes. (1) The folder information setting unit 112 displays a user folder setting screen that displays the user folders so that they can be selected. (2) If the user folder selected by the user is a shared folder and an operation to input a password is performed, the folder information setting unit 112 sets the input password as the authentication information for the selected user folder and makes it the parent-expanded folder. For example, the folder information setting unit 112 sets the folder type of the folder information corresponding to the selected folder to "parent-expanded folder" and stores the password input in the folder password. (3) If the user folder selected by the user is a parent-expanded folder and an operation to delete the authentication information is performed, the folder information setting unit 112 releases the authentication information set for the selected user folder and makes it a shared folder. For example, the folder information setting unit 112 sets the folder type of the folder information corresponding to the selected folder to "shared folder" and deletes the information stored in the folder password.

[0152] The folder information setting process is executed, for example, in response to an operation by the administrator of the image processing apparatus 14. As a result, the setting of the folder type of the user folder changes. Also, the user folder setting screen may be displayed on the display unit 140 of the image processing apparatus 14, or may be displayed on a display device whose display is controlled by a terminal device connected to the image processing apparatus 14.

[0153] Next, an operation example of this embodiment will be described. First, with reference to FIG. 27, the outline of the operation of this embodiment will be described. In the description of FIG. 27, it is assumed that the user authenticated by the user authentication executed by the image processing apparatus 14 is user C.

[0154] First, user C stores a shared file in the user C folder, which is the user folder of user C (Fig. 27(a)). It is assumed that the user C folder is a shared folder. Next, user C executes a job to output an image based on the shared file (job data) stored in the user C folder (Fig. 27(b)). At this time, as the setting history information of user C, the setting history information of the job to output the shared file stored in the user C folder is stored.

[0155] Next, when the folder information setting process is executed, the user C folder is changed to the parent folder (Fig. 27(c)). As a result, when the shared file stored in the user C folder is read, the authentication information of the user C folder is required.

[0156] Subsequently, user C selects the setting history information of the job to output the shared file stored in the user C folder and calls the setting value. At this time, when reading the shared file stored in the user C folder, since the authentication information of the user C folder is required, user C inputs the authentication information (Fig. 27(d)). Thereby, user C can output an image based on the shared file stored in the user C folder.

[0157] In this way, in this embodiment, after the setting history information is stored and before the setting history information is called, the setting of the folder in which the shared file is stored is changed, so that the call of the setting history information is restricted.

[0158] Next, a screen example in the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 28(a) is a diagram showing a screen example of the user folder setting screen W4000. The user folder setting screen W4000 includes, for example, a list that enables selection of user folders and an input field for entering the folder password of the selected folder. The user selects, for example, the "User C Folder" E4000 as the user folder. At this time, the folder password of the User C Folder is shown in the input field E4002. In FIG. 28(a), the input field E4002 is blank. This indicates that no folder password, which is authentication information, is set for the User C Folder, and the User C Folder is a shared folder.

[0159] FIG. 28(b) is a diagram showing a screen example of the setting screen W4010 for the user C to store shared files in the User C Folder, which is a shared folder. For example, the user C selects "Shared", which is an attribute value indicating that it is not the parent exhibition setting (for example, E4010 in FIG. 28(b)), or selects a user folder (for example, the "User C Folder" in E4012 of FIG. 28(b)) as the storage destination of the job data.

[0160] For example, the user C executes a scan save job and performs an operation to store the scan data file as a shared file in the User C Folder. Further, when the user C prints the shared file stored in the User C Folder, the setting history information of the job for printing the shared file stored in the User C Folder is stored. Since the information of the shared file stored in the shared folder is included as a set value in the setting history information, it is not necessary to input authentication information.

[0161] Figure 29(a) is a diagram showing an example screen of the user folder setting screen W4020. Here, the user selects, for example, the "User C Folder" E4020 as the user folder, and enters the folder password in the authentication information input field E4022. Further, the user selects the "Update" button B4020. As a result, the folder password entered in the input field E4022 is set for the "User C Folder". As a result, the "User C Folder" is changed to a parent-expanded folder.

[0162] Figure 29(b) is a diagram showing an example screen of the setting history information display screen W4030. Here, User C selects the setting history information E4030 of the job for outputting the shared files stored in the User C Folder. Here, since the User C Folder has been changed to a parent-expanded folder, the setting history information E4030 is setting history information that requires authentication information.

[0163] Figure 30(a) is a diagram showing an example screen of the setting screen W4040 displayed when the setting history information E4030 is selected by User C. The setting screen W4040 is the basic screen for copying, and is a setting screen in which the setting values included in the setting history information E4030 are expanded. Note that when the setting screen is displayed, input of authentication information is not required.

[0164] User C can cause the image processing apparatus 14 to execute a job by selecting the "Color Start" button B4040 included in the setting screen W4040.

[0165] Here, since the job to be executed is a parent-expanded job, authentication information is required. Figure 30(b) is an example screen of the password input screen W4050 including the message dialog M4050 including the input field for inputting authentication information. Here, since the User C Folder has been changed to a parent-expanded folder, User C needs to enter the authentication information set for the User C Folder.

[0166] As described above, between the time when the setting history information is stored and the time when the setting history information is called, the folder where the file corresponding to the setting history information is stored may be changed from a shared folder to a parent-expanded folder. Even in such a case, as in the operation example described above, an input of authentication information set in the parent-expanded folder is required, and the execution of the job corresponding to the history information is restricted.

[0167] Note that, in the operation example described above, the case where the folder where the job data is stored is changed from a shared folder to a parent-expanded folder has been described. However, when it is changed from a parent-expanded folder to a shared folder, an input of authentication information is not required at the time of job execution.

[0168] According to the image processing apparatus of the present embodiment, even when the setting of the storage destination of the file is changed after the file is stored, it is possible to appropriately determine whether authentication information is required.

[0169] [5. Modification Example] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible. That is, embodiments obtained by combining technical means appropriately changed within the scope not departing from the gist of the present invention are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0170] In addition, although the above-described embodiments have some parts that are separately described for convenience of explanation, it goes without saying that they may be combined and executed within a technically possible range.

[0171] Also, the program that operates in each device in the embodiment is a program (a program that functions a computer) that controls a CPU or the like so as to realize the functions of the above-described embodiments. And the information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (for example, RAM) during its processing, and then stored in a storage device such as various ROMs (Read Only Memory) and HDDs, and read by the CPU as necessary for correction and writing.

[0172] Here, as the recording medium for storing the program, any of a semiconductor medium (e.g., ROM, non-volatile memory card, etc.), an optical recording medium or magneto-optical recording medium (e.g., DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), MO (Magneto Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), CD (Compact Disc), BD (Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disk), etc.), a magnetic recording medium (e.g., magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.) may be used. Also, by executing the loaded program, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also the functions of the present invention may be realized by processing in cooperation with an operating system or other application programs, etc. based on the instructions of the program.

[0173] Also, when distributing on the market, the program can be stored in a portable recording medium for distribution, or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the storage device of the server computer is of course included in the present invention.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0174] 10, 12, 14 Image processing apparatus 100 Control unit 102 Image processing unit 104 Job execution unit 106 List display unit 108 Setting screen display unit 110 Setting history information storage unit 112 Folder information setting unit 120 Image input unit 130 Image forming unit 140 Display unit 150 Operation unit 160 Storage unit 162 Job data storage area 164 Setting history information storage area 166 Job history information storage area 168 User information storage area 170 Folder information storage area 190 Communication unit

Claims

1. a storage unit that stores a setting history including setting values ​​of executed jobs; A control unit, The control unit is displaying a list including setting history that requires authentication information when executing a job based on the setting value and setting history that does not require authentication information when executing a job based on the setting value; A setting history that requires the authentication information is displayed in an identifiable manner; Execute a job based on the setting values ​​included in the setting history selected in the list above 13. An image processing device comprising:

2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit attaches an identification mark to a setting history that requires the authentication information.

3. 3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the identification display is an icon.

4. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit acquires the authentication information at any timing from when a setting history is selected on the list until when a job based on a setting value included in the setting history is executed.

5. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the setting history requiring authentication information includes a setting value related to a destination for saving scanned data.

6. The image processing apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein the authentication information is authentication information set for a destination where the scan data is to be saved.

7. The control unit further Performs user authentication, storing the setting history of a job executed based on an instruction from an authenticated user and information of the authenticated user in the storage unit in association with each other; 2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the setting history selected on the list by the authenticated user is the setting history of a job executed based on an instruction from the authenticated user, the authentication information is not acquired.

8. A method for controlling an image processing apparatus having a storage unit that stores a setting history including setting values ​​of executed jobs, comprising: displaying a list including setting history that requires authentication information when executing a job based on the setting value and setting history that does not require authentication information when executing a job based on the setting value; A setting history that requires the authentication information is displayed in an identifiable manner; Execute a job based on the setting values ​​included in the setting history selected in the list above A control method comprising:

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