Image processing apparatus, and method for storing setting value

Abstract

To provide an image processing apparatus etc. capable of reading out only setting details of reusable setting items when reusing the setting history of a job that includes the setting items for which it is undesirable to store history information, thereby further improving the convenience of using the history information.SOLUTION: An image processing apparatus comprises: a job execution unit for executing jobs related to image processing; a storage unit capable of storing a setting value relating to the execution of the job as a setting history; and a control unit for controlling the storage of the setting value in the storage unit. The control unit restricts the storage of the setting value when the setting value corresponds to a specific setting value.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Some image processing apparatuses such as multifunction printers store setting values related to the execution of jobs such as printing, faxing, or image transmission as a setting history.

[0003] In recent years, attempts have been made to reduce the labor and time of users related to the execution of jobs by using the stored setting history. Specifically, the image processing apparatus displays the setting history on the display unit so that it can be selected by the user. The image processing apparatus that has received the selection of the setting history by the user can easily reproduce the job corresponding to the setting history by executing the job based on the setting values associated with the setting history.

[0004] Generally, all setting values related to all setting items related to the execution of jobs are stored in the setting history. However, for example, a setting history including confidential information such as a password for accessing information with access control is not preferable from the security perspective if it is stored. Also, a setting history including setting items that depend on the document to be read and the setting of the file name cannot be reused as it is, and it is necessary to manually change the setting content (setting value) again when reusing the setting history, which is troublesome.

[0005] As a technology related to the storage control of the setting history, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses an image input / output apparatus capable of selecting a method for storing history information according to the attributes of a job.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006]

Patent Document 1

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0007] In Patent Document 1, when the type of a job corresponds to a job including secure setting items such as a job of printing image data stored in a detachable external storage medium or a job related to secure printing, the history information related to the job is not saved.

[0008] Therefore, in Patent Document 1, when the type of a job corresponds to the above job, since the history information of setting items other than the secure setting items included in the job cannot be reused, it is not user-friendly for a user who wants to reuse the history information related to the job.

[0009] In addition, in Patent Document 1, consideration has not been given to the storage control of setting history including setting items for which it is impossible to directly reuse the history information. That is, in Patent Document 1, for jobs including jobs such as a job including secure setting items or a job including setting items depending on a manuscript to be read, it is difficult to say that sufficient control has been performed on the storage of setting history related to all jobs including setting items for which it is not preferable to store history information (even if the history information is stored, it cannot be reused).

[0010] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an image processing apparatus or the like capable of improving the convenience in using history information by reading only the setting contents of reusable setting items when reusing the setting history of a job including setting items for which it is not preferable to store history information.

MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEMS

[0011] To solve the above problems, an image processing apparatus according to the present disclosure includes a job execution unit that executes a job related to image processing, a storage unit that can store setting values related to the execution of the job as a setting history, and a control unit that controls the storage of the setting values in the storage unit. The control unit is characterized in that when the setting value corresponds to a specific setting value, the storage of the setting value is restricted.

[0012] Further, a method for storing a setting history according to the present disclosure includes a job execution step of executing a job related to image processing, a storage step of storing setting values related to the execution of the job as a setting history, and a control step of controlling the storage of the setting values in the storage step. In the control step, when the setting value corresponds to a specific setting value, the storage of the setting value is restricted.

Advantages of the Invention

[0013] According to the present disclosure, when reusing the setting history of a job including a setting item for which it is not preferable to store history information, it is possible to provide an image processing apparatus or the like that can read only the setting contents of reusable setting items and further improve the convenience regarding the use of history information.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0014]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0015] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the present disclosure, for example, a multifunction device capable of performing jobs related to copying, faxing, image transmission, etc. in one housing will be described as one form of an image processing apparatus. Note that the following embodiments are examples for explaining the present disclosure, and the technical scope of the description described in the claims is not limited to the following description.

[0016] Note that the "execution of a job" as used in this specification means a series of processes executed until a job started by receiving an execution instruction input from reading a setting history or inputting a setting value under the control of any job mode such as copy, fax, image transmission, etc. is completed.

[0017] Also, the "specific setting value" according to the present disclosure is a specific setting content determined based on the device settings (including initial settings) of the multifunction machine, functions, operation status such as job modes, or settings by the user, and is a concept including the value thereof. In principle, in the present disclosure, when the setting content (value) of the setting value partially or completely matches the specific setting value conceptually, it is expressed as "corresponding". In the present disclosure, the setting value "corresponding" to the specific setting value is a setting value subject to the limitation of storage as a setting history.

[0018] [1 First Embodiment] The first embodiment is a form in which the specific setting value is a setting value related to security and includes an identification code for accessing information to which access control is applied to the setting value.

[0019] [1.1 Functional Configuration] The functional configuration of the multifunction machine 10 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 1 is an external perspective view schematically explaining the overall configuration of the multifunction machine 10. FIG. 2 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction machine 10. The multifunction machine 10 includes a control unit 11, a display unit 13, an operation input unit 15, a communication unit 17, an image forming unit 19, an image reading unit 21, and a storage unit 23.

[0020] The control unit 11 controls the entire multifunction machine 10. The control unit 11 is constituted by, for example, one or a plurality of arithmetic devices (such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit)). The control unit 11 realizes its functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 23.

[0021] The display unit 13 displays various types of information to the user and the like. The display unit 13 can be configured by, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, or the like.

[0022] The operation input unit 15 receives input of information by the user and the like. The operation input unit 15 can be configured by hard keys (for example, numeric keys) or buttons, etc. Note that the operation input unit 15 can be configured as a touch panel capable of input via the display unit 13. In this case, as the input method of the touch panel, for example, general methods such as a resistive film type, an infrared type, an electromagnetic induction type, and a capacitance type can be used.

[0023] The communication unit 17 includes, for example, a wired / wireless interface or both for communicating with other devices via a network (NW) such as a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), the Internet, a telephone line, or a fax line.

[0024] The image forming unit 19 forms an image based on image data on a sheet as a recording medium. The image forming unit 19 feeds a sheet from the sheet feeding unit 25, forms an image based on the image data on the sheet, and then discharges the sheet to the sheet discharging unit 27. The image forming unit 19 can be configured by, for example, a laser printer using an electrophotographic method. In this case, the image forming unit 19 performs image formation using toner supplied from a toner cartridge (not shown) corresponding to toner colors (for example, cyan, magenta, yellow, black).

[0025] The image reading unit 21 generates image data by scanning and reading the original image. The image reading unit 21 can be configured as, for example, a scanner device equipped with an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CIS (Contact Image Sensor). The image reading unit 21 is not limited in its configuration as long as it generates image data by reading the reflected light image from the original image with the image sensor.

[0026] The storage unit 23 stores various programs and various data necessary for the operation of the multifunction device 10. The storage unit 23 can be configured by, for example, a storage device such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or a ROM (Read Only Memory).

[0027] In the first embodiment, the storage unit 23 stores a job execution program 231, a setting history processing program 232, a setting value determination program 233, and a display processing program 234, and secures a setting value file storage area 235, a setting history storage area 236, and a job history storage area 237.

[0028] The job execution program 231 is a program that the control unit 11 reads in order to perform, in job units, the processing associated with the execution of each function such as copying, faxing, and image data transmission. The control unit 11 that has read the job execution program 231 executes the job by controlling the display unit 13, the operation input unit 15, the communication unit 17, the image forming unit 19, and the image reading unit 21, which function as the job execution unit. Note that the control unit 11 that has read the job execution program 231 can read the setting history and execute various jobs based on the setting values included in the setting value file of the setting history.

[0029] The setting history processing program 232 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when, for example, acquiring setting values related to the execution of a job, generating a setting history, and performing various processes on the setting history. The control unit 11 that has read the setting history processing program 232 acquires the setting values related to the execution of the job and generates a setting value file storing the setting values. Then, the control unit 11 stores the generated setting value file in the setting value file storage area 235. Also, the control unit 11 generates a setting history by associating the setting value file with identification information (for example, job ID) for identifying which job it is related to. Then, the control unit 11 stores the generated setting history in the setting history storage area 236.

[0030] The setting value determination program 233 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 when a job is executed and a setting history related to the job is generated. The control unit 11 that has read the setting value determination program 233 functions as a determination unit that scans the setting values related to the execution of the job after the job is executed and determines whether the setting values correspond to specific setting values. When it is determined that the setting values correspond to specific setting values, the control unit 11 controls the storage of the setting values. That is, the control unit 11 performs control not to store the setting values corresponding to the specific setting values in the setting value file.

[0031] The first embodiment is a form in which a specific setting value is a setting value related to security and the setting value is an identification code for accessing information with access control. Here, FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the reason for using an identification code (password) for accessing information with access control as a specific setting value and the target job thereof. In the case of a folder (for example, a parent development folder) whose storage destination is protected by a password, the user is required to input the password when reusing the setting history. Therefore, in the first embodiment, considering security and user convenience, the password as an identification code is treated as a specific setting value.

[0032] Examples of target jobs that use such specific setting values include simple scan, E-mail, uploading image data to an FTP server, file server transmission scan (simply referred to as FTP), processing image data with specific application software, desktop transmission scan (simply referred to as Desktop), sending image data to a shared folder, and shared folder transmission scan (simply referred to as shared folder transmission), etc., which are jobs related to scan save functions and filing functions.

[0033] Returning to FIG. 2 again, the display processing program 234 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when causing the display unit 13 to display a predetermined display screen. The predetermined display screen includes, for example, a display screen for listing setting histories, a setting screen for accepting inputs such as various setting values, execution instructions, or termination instructions related to job execution, a basic screen that can switchably display the setting screen, or a login screen for user authentication, etc.

[0034] The setting value file storage area 235 is a storage area that stores the setting value file generated by the control unit 11 that has read the setting history processing program 232. The setting values include setting values determined based on the device settings (including initial settings) of the multifunction device, functions, operation status such as job modes, or settings by the user. The control unit 11 that has read the job execution program 231 can reproduce the job by acquiring the setting value file associated with the setting history from the setting value file storage area 235 and executing the job based on the setting values included in the setting value file.

[0035] The setting history storage area 236 is a storage area that stores the setting history generated by the control unit 11 that has read the setting history processing program 232. The setting history stored in the setting history storage area 236 is appropriately read during list display processing and when executing a job based on the setting history.

[0036] Here, the setting history and the setting value file according to the present disclosure will be described. FIG. 4(a) is a diagram for explaining a configuration example of the data structure of the setting history stored in the setting history storage area 236. FIG. 4(b) is a diagram for explaining a configuration example of the data structure of the setting value file stored in the setting value file storage area 235.

[0037] The setting history illustrated in FIG. 4(a) includes a job ID, an execution date and time, a job type, a display setting value, and a setting value file name.

[0038] The job ID is identification information for identifying whether the setting history relates to any job. The execution date and time represents the date and time when the job was executed. The job type represents the type of the executed job (for example, a copy job, a fax job, an image transmission job (Scan to E-mail, etc.)). The display setting value represents a part of the setting value (content) displayed on the display screen for displaying the setting history in a list. The setting value file name is the file name of the setting value file associated with the setting history.

[0039] For example, the setting history related to the job ID "0099" represents the setting history related to the job type "Copy" executed at "2020 / 02 / 22 20:20". And the job is a copy job executed based on the setting values included in the setting value file name "0099.config", and an example in which setting values such as "Color mode: Full color, Double-sided copy: One-sided → Double-sided, Copy density: Automatic,..." are set as the display setting values. Note that the display setting values set according to each job ID are merely examples, and the setting values displayed on the display screen are not limited to the matters described in FIG. 4(a).

[0040] FIG. 4(b) is a diagram for explaining a configuration example of the data structure of the setting value file "0099.config" associated with the job ID "0099" in FIG. 4(a).

[0041] The setting value file can be configured as, for example, a text file storing setting values corresponding to each setting content. For example, FIG. 4(b) is an illustration of a setting value file related to a copy job, and each setting value (e.g., color mode: full color, double-sided copy: single-sided → double-sided, copy density: automatic, ···) for executing the copy job is stored therein. When the control unit 11 determines that the setting value corresponds to a specific setting value, it generates a setting value file with the storage of the setting value restricted. Thereby, for the purpose of reuse, when the setting history associated with the setting value file is read, the user can easily perform the input setting of the setting value without manually changing the setting value again for the specific setting value. Further, in the first embodiment, since the specific setting value is a setting value related to security, the setting value is not displayed to the job execution user. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the leakage of identification codes such as passwords to the job execution user.

[0042] Returning to FIG. 2 again, the job history storage area 237 is an area that stores the execution record of a job as a job history. Here, the job history according to the present disclosure will be described. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining a configuration example of the data structure of the job history stored in the job history storage area 237.

[0043] The job history according to the example of FIG. 5 includes a job ID, an execution date and time, a job type, a user name, and a status.

[0044] The job ID, the execution date and time, and the job type are the same items as those included in the setting history described in FIG. 4 and have the same content. The user name represents the name of the user who executed the job. The status represents the processing status of the job.

[0045] For example, the job history related to job ID "0098" represents the job history regarding job type "Scan to E-mail" executed at "2020 / 02 / 22 19:19". And it is indicated that the execution instruction of this job was input by the username "aaaaa" and the status of this job is "completed".

[0046] Different from the setting history, the job history is information for recording the execution history of a job, so it can be generated at any timing such as when registering a job, after the job is completed, or after generating the setting history.

[0047] [1.2 Process Flow] [1.2.1 Overall Process Flow] Next, the process flow according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the overall process of the multifunction machine 10. The process described here is a process executed by the control unit 11 by loading the job execution program 231, the setting history processing program 232, the setting value determination program 233, and the display processing program 234.

[0048] After the execution of the job, the control unit 11 acquires the setting values related to the executed job (step S10 → step S20).

[0049] Next, the control unit 11 performs a setting value determination process on the acquired setting values (step S30).

[0050] The control unit 11 determines whether there is a setting value corresponding to a specific setting value as a result of the setting value determination process (step S40).

[0051] When the control unit 11 determines that there is a set value corresponding to a specific set value, it restricts the storage of the corresponding set value, stores the setting history, and ends the process (step S40; Yes → step S50). That is, the control unit 11 stores set values other than the set value corresponding to the specific set value as a set value file. Next, the control unit 11 generates a setting history by associating the set value file with the job ID of the executed job, and stores it in the setting history storage area 236.

[0052] On the other hand, when the control unit 11 determines that there is no set value corresponding to the specific set value, it stores the setting history without restricting the storage of the set value and ends the process (step S40; No → step S60). That is, the control unit 11 stores all set values as a set value file. Next, the control unit 11 generates a setting history by associating the set value file with the job ID of the executed job, and stores it in the setting history storage area 236.

[0053] Here, when restricting the storage of a specific set value and storing the setting history in step S50, for example, the control unit 11 excludes a specific set value from the acquired set values. Then, the control unit 11 collectively stores the unexcluded set values (unrestricted set values) in the setting history storage area 236 as the setting history.

[0054] Also, the control unit 11 may determine whether each set value is a specific set value one by one. When the set value corresponds to a specific set value, the control unit 11 restricts the storage, and stores other set values in the setting history storage area 236.

[0055] Also, after the control unit 11 stores all set values in the setting history storage area 236, it may perform control to delete specific set values.

[0056] That is, the setting history storage area 236 stores set values other than the specific set value among the set values acquired by the control unit 11.

[0057] [1.2.2 Flow of Set Value Determination Process] Next, the setting item determination process in step S30 of FIG. 6 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 7. Note that the process according to FIG. 7 is a process in which the control unit 11 reads and executes the set value determination program 233.

[0058] The control unit 11 reads the set value related to the execution job acquired in step S20 of FIG. 6 (step S3010).

[0059] The control unit 11 determines whether the read set value matches the identification code (password) as a specific set value (step S3020).

[0060] If the read set value matches the identification code, the control unit 11 determines that the set value corresponds to a specific set value (step S3020; Yes → step S3030).

[0061] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether all the set values have been referred to (step S3040). If the reference to all the set values has been completed, the control unit 11 ends the process (step S3040; Yes → "End"). On the other hand, if the reference to all the set values has not been completed, the control unit 11 returns the process to step S3020.

[0062] If the read set value does not match the identification code, the control unit 11 transfers the process to step S3040 (step S3020; No → step S3040).

[0063] [1.3 Operation Example] Next, an operation example according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining a configuration example of the job setting screen W10 related to the shared folder transmission job illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0064] The job setting screen W10 includes a function selection area R20 and a save detail setting screen W20 for accepting detailed settings for image data storage.

[0065] The function selection area R20 is a display area that displays function selection keys for accepting the selection of functions that can be set when executing a job. The control unit 11 stores the function (setting content) set via the function selection key together with the set values input via the save detailed setting screen W20 in the set value file, and generates the set value file.

[0066] The save detailed setting screen W20 includes an on / off button B10, a folder type selection pull-down menu P10, a password input box Bx10, and a setting area R10 for user name, etc.

[0067] The on / off button B10 is an input button for accepting the setting of enabling / disabling the save detailed setting function. The folder type selection pull-down menu P10 is a pull-down menu for accepting the selection of the folder type as the storage destination of the image data. FIG. 8 is an example in which "parent folder" is selected as the storage destination folder type. The password input box Bx10 is an input box for accepting the input of the password for accessing the storage destination folder. The setting area R10 for user name, etc. is a display area that displays input boxes for accepting the input of user name, file name, storage destination, etc. In FIG. 8, an example is shown where ￥￥USERFOLDER￥TEST is set as the storage destination. However, when a specific folder is not specified as the storage destination, it is also possible to automatically set the standard folder, which is the system setting value, as the storage destination.

[0068] Normally, when the shared folder transmission job is executed, the value "abjx045uzp" of the password input into the password input box Bx10 is stored in the set value file as a set value as illustrated in FIG. 9(a) by the execution of the job. In contrast, in the first embodiment, the password is a set value corresponding to a specific set value. Therefore, as illustrated in FIG. 9(b), the control unit 11 does not store the value "abjx045uzp" of the password, stores the set values other than the password in the set value file, and generates the set value file.

[0069] As described above, according to the first embodiment, when a specific setting value is a setting value related to security and includes an identification code for accessing information to which access control is applied to the setting value, since it is configured to partially restrict the setting value to be stored, when reusing the setting history, it is possible to provide an image processing apparatus or the like that can ensure security, reduce the trouble of manually changing the setting content again, and further improve the convenience regarding the use of history information.

[0070] [2 Second Embodiment] The second embodiment is a form in which a specific setting value is a setting value related to job operations and includes a setting value that cannot be reused for job execution.

[0071] [2.1 Functional Configuration] The functional configuration of the multifunction device according to the second embodiment can be the same as the functional configuration of the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of the functional configuration of the multifunction device according to the second embodiment is omitted, and the same reference numerals as those of the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment are used for the description.

[0072] [2.2 Example 1] In Example 1 according to the second embodiment, a form in which the setting value that cannot be reused for job execution includes a setting value related to preview image editing or a setting value related to an interrupt job will be described.

[0073] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the reason for setting the set values related to the preview image editing or the interrupt job to specific set values and the target jobs thereof. Preview image editing including operations such as page deletion and specified range deletion on the preview image varies depending on the document to be read. Also, the interrupt job is an operation to interrupt during job execution. Preview image editing and the interrupt job cannot be reflected in the execution of the job even if an attempt is made to reproduce the job by reading the setting history. Therefore, in the first embodiment according to the second embodiment, when reusing the setting history, from the viewpoint of reducing the trouble of manually changing the setting contents again and further improving the convenience regarding the use of the history information, the set values related to these jobs are handled as specific set values.

[0074] Examples of the target jobs using such specific set values include, for preview image editing, copy, simple copy, scan, E-mail, FTP, Desktop, shared folder transmission, Internet FAX, data input, scan save, etc. Also, for the interrupt job, copy, etc. can be cited.

[0075] [2.2.1 Flow of processing] [2.2.1.1 Flow of overall processing] Regarding the overall processing according to the first embodiment, since it can be the same as the overall processing described in FIG. 6, the description here is omitted.

[0076] [2.2.1.2 Flow of set value determination processing] Next, the set value determination processing in step S30 of FIG. 6 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 11. Note that the same step numbers are assigned to the same processing as that described in FIG. 7.

[0077] The control unit 11 reads the set values related to the execution job acquired in step S20 of FIG. 6 (step S3010).

[0078] The control unit 11 determines whether the read setting value matches the setting value related to preview image editing as a specific setting value (step S3050).

[0079] When the read setting value matches the setting value related to preview image editing, the control unit 11 determines that the setting value corresponds to a specific setting value (step S3050; Yes → step S3030).

[0080] On the other hand, when the read setting value does not match the setting value related to preview image editing, the control unit 11 determines whether the read setting value matches the setting value related to an interrupt job as a specific setting value (step S3050; No → step S3060).

[0081] When the read setting value matches the setting value related to the interrupt job, the control unit 11 determines that the setting value corresponds to a specific setting value (step S3060; Yes → step S3030). On the other hand, when the read setting value does not match the setting value related to the interrupt job, the control unit 11 transfers the process to step S3040 (step S3060; No → step S3040).

[0082] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether all the setting values have been referred to (step S3040). When the reference to all the setting values is completed, the control unit 11 ends the process (step S3040; Yes → "End"). On the other hand, when the reference to all the setting values is not completed, the control unit 11 returns the process to step S3050.

[0083] [2.2.2 Operation Example] Next, an operation example according to Example 1 will be described. As an operation example according to Example 1, an operation example will be described when the setting value related to preview image editing is included in the setting value that cannot be reused for job execution.

[0084] FIG. 12(a) is a diagram for explaining a configuration example of the preview image editing screen W30, and FIG. 12(b) is a diagram for explaining a configuration of the designated area deletion screen W40.

[0085] The preview image editing screen W30 includes a preview image editing area R30 and a function selection area R40. The preview image editing area R30 displays various operation buttons for receiving editing of the preview image such as page rotation and page deletion. The function selection area R40 is a display area that displays function selection keys for receiving selection of functions that can be set when executing preview image editing as a job. The function selection key is provided with a "designated area deletion" key as a trigger for displaying the designated area deletion screen W40 illustrated in FIG. 12(b). By pressing the "designated area deletion" key, the user can display the designated area deletion screen W40.

[0086] The designated area deletion screen W40 includes a deletion range designation area R50. The deletion range designation area R50 is a display area that receives input of deletion settings for deleting a designated part from the preview image (original manuscript image), and displays the start point coordinates of the deletion start, the height and width information of the deletion range, and the like.

[0087] The user can perform preview image editing via the preview image editing screen W30 and the designated area deletion screen W40. In this case, the control unit 11 determines that the setting value related to the editing of the preview image corresponds to a specific setting value via the preview image editing screen W30 and the designated area deletion screen W40. The control unit 11 performs control not to store the setting value related to the preview image editing in the setting value file.

[0088] [2.3 Example 2] In Example 2 according to the second embodiment, a form in which the setting values that cannot be reused for job execution include setting values related to paper selection, prevention of unauthorized printing, developer saving, automatic file name generation, original manuscript reading, file path of an external storage device, or electronic signature or encryption will be described.

[0089] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining the reasons for setting values related to paper selection, prevention of unauthorized printing, developer saving, automatic file name generation, original reading, file path of an external storage device, or electronic signature or encryption as specific setting values, and the target jobs thereof. Hereinafter, these setting values will be individually described.

[0090] (1) Setting values related to paper selection The setting values related to paper selection are setting values related to a copy job such as paper size, paper type, number of printed sheets, etc. The setting values related to paper selection, such as the size / type information of the paper in the tray and the number of printed sheets, may be changed for each execution of the copy job. Therefore, in Example 2, the setting values related to paper selection are treated as specific setting values.

[0091] (2) Setting values related to prevention of unauthorized printing The setting values related to prevention of unauthorized printing are setting values related to a copy job equipped with a document control function. The document control function is a function that prevents unauthorized printing such as secondary copying of important originals by aborting the reading operation of the original when the original printed with an embedded document control pattern is read by a device equipped with the document control function. The document control pattern to be printed may be changed in the system settings. Therefore, in Example 2, the setting values related to prevention of unauthorized printing are treated as specific setting values.

[0092] (3) Setting values related to developer saving The setting values related to developer saving are setting values related to a copy job that uses a developer (toner) for printing (image formation). The setting values related to developer saving may be changed by service simulation. Therefore, in Example 2, the setting values related to developer saving are treated as specific setting items.

[0093] (4) Setting values related to automatic file name generation The setting values related to automatic file name generation are the setting values related to jobs such as Simple Scan, E-mail, FTP, Desktop, and shared folder transmission, which have a function of automatically assigning a file name to image data generated by manuscript reading or the like. In the setting values related to automatic file name generation, the date or the like may be automatically assigned to the file name. Therefore, in Example 2, the setting items related to automatic file name generation are treated as specific setting values.

[0094] (5) Setting values related to manuscript reading The setting values related to manuscript reading are the setting values related to a Simple Scan job with an automatic setting function. The automatic setting function is a function that detects and automatically corrects skipping of blank pages, determination of the top and bottom margins of the manuscript, and inclination of the manuscript during manuscript reading. The setting values related to automatic setting may be changed in the system settings. Therefore, in Example 2, the setting values related to manuscript reading are treated as specific setting values.

[0095] (6) Setting values related to the file path of an external storage device The setting values related to the file path of an external storage device are the setting values related to jobs such as Simple Scan, E-mail, FTP, Desktop, and shared folder transmission, which can set the file path of the external storage device for storing image data generated by manuscript reading or the like. The setting values related to the file path of the external storage device may be changed according to the storage destination. Therefore, in Example 2, the setting values related to the file path of the external storage device are treated as specific setting values.

[0096] (7) Setting values related to electronic signature or encryption The setting values related to electronic signature or encryption are the setting values related to jobs such as E-mail, FTP, Desktop, and shared folder transmission, which have a function of attaching an electronic signature to image data generated by manuscript reading or the like or encrypting the image data. The setting items related to electronic signature or encryption may be changed in the system settings or the like. Therefore, in Example 2, the setting values related to electronic signature or encryption are treated as specific setting values.

[0097] The specific set values according to Example 2 are set values that are likely to be changed via job settings, service simulations, system settings, etc. In Example 2, as in Example 1, when reusing the setting history, from the perspective of reducing the trouble of manually changing the setting content again and further improving the convenience in using the history information, the set values related to these jobs are treated as specific set values. Note that FIG. 13 is merely an illustration, and the specific set values are not limited by the matters described in FIG. 13.

[0098] [2.3.1 Process Flow] [2.3.1.1 Overall Process Flow] Regarding the overall process according to Example 2, since it can be the same as the overall process described in FIG. 6, the description here is omitted.

[0099] [2.3.1.2 Flow of Setting Value Judgment Process] Next, the setting value judgment process in step S30 of FIG. 6 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 14. For the processes that are the same as those described in FIG. 7, the same step numbers are assigned.

[0100] The control unit 11 reads the set value related to the execution job acquired in step S20 of FIG. 6 (step S3010).

[0101] The control unit 11 determines whether the read set value matches the set value related to paper selection as a specific set value (step S3070).

[0102] If the read set value matches the set value related to paper selection, the control unit 11 determines that the set value corresponds to a specific set value (step S3070; Yes → step S3030).

[0103] On the other hand, when the read setting value does not match the setting value related to paper selection, the control unit 11 determines whether the read setting value matches the setting value related to preventing unauthorized printing as a specific setting value (step S3070; No → step S3080).

[0104] When the read setting value matches the setting value related to preventing unauthorized printing, the control unit 11 determines that the setting value corresponds to a specific setting value (step S3080; Yes → step S3030).

[0105] On the other hand, when the read setting value does not match the setting value related to preventing unauthorized printing, the control unit 11 determines whether the read setting value matches the setting value related to developer saving as a specific setting value (step S3080; No → step S3090).

[0106] When the read setting value matches the setting value related to developer saving, the control unit 11 determines that the setting value corresponds to a specific setting value (step S3090; Yes → step S3030).

[0107] On the other hand, when the read setting value does not match the setting value related to developer saving, the control unit 11 determines whether the read setting value matches the setting value related to automatic file name generation as a specific setting value (step S3090; No → step S3100).

[0108] When the read setting value matches the setting value related to automatic file name generation, the control unit 11 determines that the setting value corresponds to a specific setting value (step S3100; Yes → step S3030).

[0109] On the other hand, when the read setting value does not match the setting value related to automatic file name generation, the control unit 11 determines whether the read setting value matches the setting value related to original document reading as a specific setting value (step S3100; No → step S3110).

[0110] When the read setting value matches the setting value related to document reading, the control unit 11 determines that the setting value corresponds to a specific setting value (step S3110; Yes → step S3030).

[0111] On the other hand, when the read setting value does not match the setting value related to document reading, the control unit 11 determines whether the read setting value matches the setting value related to the file path as a specific setting value (step S3110; No → step S3120).

[0112] When the read setting value matches the setting value related to the file path, the control unit 11 determines that the setting value corresponds to a specific setting value (step S3120; Yes → step S3030).

[0113] On the other hand, when the read setting value does not match the setting value related to the file path, the control unit 11 determines whether the read setting value matches the setting value related to electronic signature / encryption as a specific setting value (step S3120; No → step S3130).

[0114] When the read setting value matches the setting value related to electronic signature / encryption, the control unit 11 determines that the setting value corresponds to a specific setting value (step S3130; Yes → step S3030).

[0115] On the other hand, when the read setting value does not match the setting value related to electronic signature / encryption, the control unit 11 transfers the process to step S3040 (step S3130; No → step S3040).

[0116] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether all setting values have been referred to (step S3040). When the reference to all setting values is completed, the control unit 11 ends the process (step S3040; Yes → "End"). On the other hand, when the reference to all setting values is not completed, the control unit 11 returns the process to step S3070. [2.3.2 Operation Example] Next, an operation example according to Example 2 will be described. As an operation example according to Example 2, an operation example will be described in a case where a setting value related to a file path of an external storage device or a setting value related to automatic file name generation is included in a setting value that cannot be reused for job execution.

[0117] FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining a configuration of a file path setting screen W50 for setting a file path of an external storage device.

[0118] The file path setting screen W50 includes a file path setting area R60. The file path setting area R60 displays a folder structure of an external storage device for storing image data in a job related to a scan save function, a filing function, or the like in a selectable manner. The user can set a storage destination of the image data by selecting a desired folder from the displayed folders. Note that the user can also set the storage destination of the image data by directly inputting a file path representing the storage destination of the image data. In this case, the control unit 11 determines that a setting value related to the file path representing the storage destination of the image data corresponds to a specific setting value. The control unit 11 performs control not to store the setting value related to the file path in the setting value file.

[0119] FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining an exception of a setting value related to automatic file name generation as a specific setting value. FIG. 16(a) is a configuration example of a job setting screen W60 of a scan save job related to a filing function. The job setting screen W60 includes a file name input box Bx20. When the automatic file name generation function is valid, if the file name input box Bx20 is blank, the control unit 11 automatically generates a file name by assigning a date or the like as identification information when the job is executed. In this case, the control unit 11 determines that a setting value related to the automatically generated file name including a date or the like corresponds to a specific setting value. The control unit 11 performs control not to store the setting value related to the file name in the setting value file.

[0120] On the one hand, as shown in Fig. 16(b), when a file name (for example, test) is manually input into the file name input box Bx20, the control unit 11 determines that the input file name corresponds to a specific set value, but since the set value does not include a date or the like, it is an exception. In this case, the control unit 11 stores the set value related to the manually input file name in the set value file.

[0121] As described above, according to the second embodiment, when a specific set value is a set value related to a job operation and the set value includes a set value that cannot be reused for job execution, since the configuration is to partially limit the set value to be stored, when reusing the setting history, the trouble of manually changing the setting content again can be reduced, and an image processing apparatus or the like that can further improve the convenience related to the use of history information can be provided.

[0122] Also, according to the second embodiment, since not all set values are stored in the setting history (set value file), it is possible to prevent the limited storage capacity in the multifunction machine 10 from being unnecessarily compressed.

[0123] [3 Third Embodiment] In the first and second embodiments, when the set value related to job execution corresponds to a specific set value, the storage of the set value is restricted. The third embodiment is a form in which the set value is stored when a predetermined condition is satisfied even when the set value related to job execution corresponds to a specific set value.

[0124] [3.1 Functional Configuration] Fig. 17 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction machine 30 according to the third embodiment. The functional configuration of the multifunction machine 30 according to the third embodiment can be substantially the same as that of the multifunction machine 10 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0125] The multi-function machine 30 includes a storage unit 33 instead of the storage unit 23 of the multi-function machine 10. In the third embodiment, the storage unit 33 stores a job execution program 231, a setting history processing program 232, a setting value determination program 333, and a display processing program 234, and secures a setting value file storage area 235, a setting history storage area 236, and a job history storage area 237.

[0126] The setting value determination program 333 includes a setting value validity determination program 3331 in addition to the configuration of the setting value determination program 233. The setting value validity determination program 3331 is a program read by the control unit 11 during the comparison process between the setting value related to the read job execution and a specific setting value, which is related to, for example, step S3020 in FIG. 7, step S3050 in FIG. 11, step S3060, and steps S3070 to S3130 in FIG. 14.

[0127] The control unit 11 that has read the setting value validity determination program 3331 determines whether or not to restrict the setting value storage by determining, as the setting value validity determination process, whether the setting value related to the job execution corresponds to a specific setting value and whether the setting value related to the job execution satisfies predetermined conditions exemplified in the following (1) to (3).

[0128] (1) When an identification code is set by a logged-in user with administrative privileges (2) When the set value of the number of printed sheets related to paper selection is less than a predetermined number (3) When the file path of a specific external storage device is set as the set value

[0129] (1) When an identification code is set by a logged-in user with administrative privileges Since it is an operation by a logged-in user with administrative privileges, even if the identification code is stored as a setting history (setting value file), there are few security problems.

[0130] (2) When the set value of the number of printed sheets related to paper selection is less than a predetermined number For example, when the allowable number of printed copies is 10 and the set value of the number of printed copies is set to 9, the set value related to the number of printed copies is stored. On the other hand, when a number of printed copies of 10 or more is set as the set value, the storage of the set value related to the number of printed copies is restricted. By adopting such a configuration, in a copy job aimed at a small number of copies, while ensuring the convenience of the user associated with the reuse of the setting history, it is possible to prevent a large number of printed materials from being erroneously output due to input errors or the like. (3) When the file path of a specific external storage device is set as the set value For example, set values related to a memory maker, memory type, storage capacity, etc. of a portable storage device such as a USB memory are likely to be changed by the user. Therefore, when using a USB memory as the external storage device, the storage of the set value is restricted. On the other hand, for an installed external storage device such as a NAS (Network Attached Storage) as the external storage device, it is considered that the frequency of change of set values related to network address, memory maker, memory type, storage capacity, etc. is relatively low. Therefore, when using a NAS as the external storage device, an operation such as not restricting the storage of set values can be considered.

[0131] Note that the predetermined conditions exemplified in the above (1) to (3) are merely examples, and the predetermined conditions are not limited to the descriptions in the above (1) to (3).

[0132] [3.2 Flow of processing] The processing according to the third embodiment can be implemented in the same manner as the first embodiment or the second embodiment. In this case, in accordance with the processing related to step S3020 in FIG. 7 of the first embodiment, steps S3050, S3060 in FIG. 11 of the second embodiment, and steps S3070 to S3130 in FIG. 14 of the second embodiment, the set value validity determination processing may be performed.

[0133] [3.3 Example of operation] FIG. 18 is a diagram for explaining an operation example according to the third embodiment. Here, FIG. 18(a) is an example of a data configuration example of a setting value file when, for example, a USB memory is set as an external storage device, and FIG. 18(b) is an example of a data configuration example of a setting value file when, for example, a NAS is set as an external storage device.

[0134] As shown in both FIGS. 18(a) and 18(b), since the password as an identification code corresponds to a specific set value, the storage is restricted.

[0135] By the way, as shown in FIG. 18(a), when a USB memory is set as an external storage device, the storage of the file path using the USB memory as the "save destination" is restricted. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 18(b), when a NAS is set as an external storage device, the file path with the "save destination" set to "￥￥UESRFOLDER￥TEST" is stored.

[0136] In the third embodiment, even when the setting value related to job execution corresponds to a specific set value, if the content of the set value satisfies a predetermined condition, the set value can be stored as a setting history. Therefore, according to the third embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment or the second embodiment, it is possible to provide an image processing apparatus or the like that is highly convenient for the user and can operate history information with high flexibility.

[0137] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible. That is, embodiments obtained by appropriately combining technical means modified within the scope not departing from the gist of the present invention are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0138] Also, 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 the technically possible range.

[0139] Also, the program operating in each device in the embodiment is a program that controls a CPU or the like (a program that causes a computer to function) so as to realize the functions of the above-described embodiment. 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) or HDDs, and read by the CPU as needed for correction and writing.

[0140] Here, as the recording medium for storing the program, it may be any of a semiconductor medium (for example, ROM, non-volatile memory card, etc.), an optical recording medium or a magneto-optical recording medium (for example, 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 (for example, magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.). Also, by executing the loaded program, not only the functions of the above-described embodiment 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 based on the instructions of the program.

[0141] 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, of course, the storage device of the server computer is also included in the present invention.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0142] 10, 30 Multifunction device 11 Control unit 13 Display unit 15 Operation input unit 17 Communication unit 19 Image forming unit 21 Image reading unit 23 Storage unit 25 Paper feeding unit 27-row paper feed section 231 Job execution program 232 Setting history processing program 233, 333 Setting value determination program 234 Display processing program 235 Setting value file storage area 236 Setting history storage area 237 Job history storage area 3331 Setting value validity determination program

Claims

1. A job execution unit that executes a job, A storage unit that stores setting values related to the execution of the job, A control unit that controls the storage of the setting values and generates a file storing the setting values, The control unit restricts the storage of the specific setting value in the file when the setting value corresponds to a specific setting value. An image processing apparatus characterized by this.

2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit includes a determination unit that determines whether or not the setting value corresponds to a specific setting value.

3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the determination unit determines whether or not the setting value corresponds to a setting value related to security as the specific setting value.

4. The image processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the setting value related to security includes an identification code for accessing information subject to access control.

5. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the determination unit determines whether or not the setting value corresponds to a setting value related to job operations as the specific setting value.

6. The image processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the setting value related to job operations includes a setting value that cannot be reused for executing a job using the file.

7. The image processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the setting value that cannot be reused for the execution of the job includes a setting value related to preview image editing or a setting value related to an interrupt job.

8. The image processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the setting value that cannot be reused for the execution of the job includes a setting value related to paper selection, prevention of unauthorized printing, developer saving, automatic generation of file names, document reading, file path of an external storage device, or electronic signature or encryption.

9. The file includes a plurality of the setting values, The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the control unit stores setting values other than the setting value corresponding to the specific setting value in the storage unit.

10. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit stores the specific setting value in the file even when the setting value corresponds to a specific setting value, provided that a predetermined condition is satisfied.

11. A job execution step of executing a job, A storage step of storing setting values related to the execution of the job, A control step of controlling the storage of the set value in the memory process and generating a file storing the set value is provided. In the control step, when the set value corresponds to a specific set value, the storage of the specific set value in the file is restricted. A method for storing a set value is characterized by this.

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