Image processing device, control method, and control program

Abstract

To solve the problem that an image processing device has room for improvement in view of further enhancing the convenience of a user using a history button.SOLUTION: An image processing device is provided with an operation panel including a display part for displaying a menu area in which a plurality of function buttons corresponding to kinds of image processing are arranged and a history area in which a plurality of history buttons corresponding to completed image processing are arranged side by side, and an operation part for receiving operation to each button respectively arranged in the menu area and the history area. In the history area, an individual history button for individually displaying information of the completed image processing in each image processing and a group history button for displaying a group obtained by classifying the completed image processing according to a classification condition are arranged side by side. The display part displays information showing the classification condition, that is, classification information associated with the group history button in the history area.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an image processing device, a control method, and a control program. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes an image processing device having an operation panel that displays, side by side, a menu area in which function buttons corresponding to types of image processing are arranged, and a history area in which history buttons corresponding to image processing that has been completed in the past (hereinafter referred to as "completed image processing"). In this type of image processing device, when an operation to select a history button is accepted, the settings for the image processing corresponding to that history button are reproduced, thereby saving the user the trouble of inputting the settings. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-43495 Summary of the Invention

[0004] The image processing device described above has room for improvement in terms of further increasing the convenience for users who use the history button.

[0005] The present disclosure provides an image processing device, a control method, and a control program that can further improve user convenience.

[0006] An image processing device according to a first aspect of the present disclosure includes an operation panel having a display unit that displays, side by side, a menu area in which a plurality of function buttons corresponding to types of image processing are arranged, and a history area in which a plurality of history buttons corresponding to completed image processing are arranged, and an operation unit that accepts operations on each button arranged in the menu area and the history area. The history area includes, side by side, individual history buttons that display information on completed image processing individually for each image processing, and group history buttons that display groups obtained by classifying the completed image processing according to classification conditions. The display unit displays, in the history area, classification information that indicates the classification conditions and is associated with the group history buttons.

[0007] A control method according to a second aspect of the present disclosure is a method for controlling an image processing device. The control method includes the steps of displaying, on an operation panel, a menu area in which a plurality of function buttons corresponding to types of image processing are arranged, and a history area in which a plurality of history buttons corresponding to completed image processing are arranged, side by side, and accepting, on the operation panel, operations for each button arranged in the menu area and the history area. The history area includes, side by side, individual history buttons that display information on completed image processing individually for each image processing, and group history buttons that display groups obtained by classifying the completed image processing according to classification conditions. The displaying step includes a step of displaying, in the history area, classification information that indicates the classification conditions and is associated with the group history buttons.

[0008] A control program according to a third aspect of the present disclosure causes an image processing device to execute the following steps: displaying, on an operation panel, a menu area in which a plurality of function buttons corresponding to types of image processing are arranged, and a history area in which a plurality of history buttons corresponding to completed image processing are arranged, side by side; and accepting, on the operation panel, operations for each button arranged in the menu area and the history area. The history area includes, side by side, individual history buttons that display information on completed image processing individually for each image processing, and group history buttons that display groups obtained by classifying the completed image processing according to classification conditions. The displaying step includes displaying, in the history area, classification information that indicates the classification conditions and is associated with the group history buttons. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a functional block configuration of an image processing apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the external configuration of an image processing apparatus according to an embodiment; [Figure 3] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a home screen displayed on a display unit of an operation panel according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a copy screen according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of a screen display when a history area (history button) according to the embodiment is operated. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a group history button according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen display when a group history button is tapped according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of a screen display when a group history button is tapped according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of a screen display when a group history button is tapped according to the embodiment. [Figure 10]FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a control flow of the image processing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a first modification example of a group history button according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a second modification example of a group history button according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a second modification example of a group history button according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a third modified example of a group history button according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a third modified example of a group history button according to the embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a fourth modification example of the group history button according to the embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a fifth modified example of the group history button according to the embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a sixth modification example of the group history button according to the embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a sixth modification example of the group history button according to the embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a sixth modification example of the group history button according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] An image processing apparatus according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the description of the drawings, the same or similar parts are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals.

[0011] (Configuration of image processing device) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a functional block configuration of an image processing device 1 according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the external configuration of the image processing device 1 according to an embodiment. Note that an "image" may include only text. The format of "image data" may be various, for example, a vector format or a raster format. In the description of the embodiments, for convenience, a strict distinction may not be made between "image" and "image data." The format of "image data" may be appropriately converted during image processing.

[0012] As shown in FIG. 1, the image processing device 1 has a printer 10, a scanner 20, a communication unit 30, an operation panel 40, a control unit 50, and a storage unit 60. The image processing device 1 has a configuration capable of performing one or more types of image processing. In the embodiment, the printer 10, the scanner 20, and the communication unit 30 are provided as components for performing image processing. The printer 10, the scanner 20, and the communication unit 30 constitute an image processing unit 3. However, the image processing device 1 may have a configuration including only one of the printer 10 and the scanner 20, or may not have the communication unit 30.

[0013] In the embodiment, the types of image processing executed by the image processing unit 3 include "print," "copy," "scan," and "facsimile (FAX)." That is, the image processing device 1 has the functions of "print," "copy," "scan," and "FAX."

[0014] "Copy" is a function that causes the printer 10 to print an image read by the scanner 20 onto paper. "Print" is a function that causes the printer 10 to print an image based on data received by the communication unit 30 from the outside or an image based on data stored in a recording medium (not shown) connected to the image processing device 1. "Scan" is a function that saves an image read by the scanner 20 as data. The save destination is, for example, an auxiliary storage device (or, from another perspective, a non-volatile memory) included in the storage unit 60, a storage medium connected to the image processing device 1, or another device that communicates with the image processing device 1 via the communication unit 30. "Fax" is a function that causes the printer 10 to print onto paper data received by the communication unit 30 from the outside via a telephone line, and a function that causes the communication unit 30 to send image data read by the scanner 20 to the outside via a telephone line.

[0015] The image processing unit 3 does not necessarily have to support all of these functions. For example, the image processing unit 3 may support only one or two of print, copy, scan, and fax. The image processing unit 3 may also support an "email" function. "Email" is a function for setting and / or executing e-mail. With this function, for example, part or all of the contents of an e-mail received by the communication unit 30 may be printed by the printer 10, or the communication unit 30 may send image data read by the scanner 20 by e-mail.

[0016] The printer 10 prints images under the control of the control unit 50. For example, the printer 10 prints on paper placed in a paper feed tray 71 shown in FIG. 2 and ejects the printed paper to a paper output tray 72. The printer 10 may have only one paper feed tray 71, or may have multiple paper feed trays 71. The multiple paper feed trays 71 can accommodate, for example, paper of different sizes. From another perspective, the printer 10 may have a function for selecting the size of paper. The printer 10 may be configured to be capable of printing in color (as well as monochrome and grayscale).

[0017] The scanner 20 performs image scanning and generates image data under the control of the control unit 50. Specifically, the scanner 20 performs imaging (scanning) of an original placed on the original table 73 or ADF (Auto Document Feeder) 74 shown in Fig. 2 using an imaging device that moves along the original glass, and generates image data.

[0018] The communication unit 30 performs image data communication under the control of the control unit 50. Specifically, the communication unit 30 realizes communication between the image processing device 1 and other devices. Examples of other devices include personal computers (PCs), mobile terminals (smartphones, etc.), other image processing devices, and servers. Examples of servers include file servers, mail servers, and web servers. Communication may be performed directly with other devices, or indirectly via a network. Examples of networks include a telephone network, the Internet, a private network, and a LAN (Local Area Network). Furthermore, communication may be wired communication or wireless communication.

[0019] The operation panel 40 constitutes an operation unit that accepts user operations (user inputs). The operation panel 40 has a touch panel display 41. As shown in FIG. 2, the operation panel 40 may have one or more physical buttons 41c. The touch panel display 41 has a display unit 41a that displays an image under the control of the control unit 50, and an operation unit 41b that accepts touch operations on the display unit 41a. For example, the display unit 41a is configured by a liquid crystal display or an organic electroluminescence (EL) display. These displays have a relatively large number of regularly arranged pixels and can display images including arbitrary shapes based on image data. The display unit 41a may be capable of displaying color images. The operation unit 41b detects the position of a touch operation on the display unit 41a and outputs the detection result to the control unit 50. The operation unit 41b may include a touch panel overlaid on the display unit 41a and an A / D converter that converts the output of the touch panel into analog / digital (A / D) data. In describing the embodiments, for convenience, terms indicating specific aspects of an "operation" on the operation unit 41b, such as "press," "touch," and "tap," may be used, but these terms may be broader conceptualized as "predetermined operation."

[0020] The control unit 50 includes one or more processors and controls the entire image processing device 1. The control unit 50 executes various processes by executing control programs stored in the storage unit 60. The control unit 50 controls the operations of the printer 10, the scanner 20, the communication unit 30, and the operation panel 40. For example, when the control unit 50 receives an operation (instruction) from a user via the operation panel 40, it executes a process according to the operation content. The operation panel 40 displays various operation screens on the touch panel display 41 in accordance with the instructions from the control unit 50. The control unit 50 may also include a logic circuit or the like configured to perform only certain operations.

[0021] The storage unit 60 includes various types of memory, such as a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), and an auxiliary storage device. The combination of the control unit 50 and the storage unit 60 may be considered a computer. The programs executed by the control unit 50 are stored, for example, in the ROM and / or the auxiliary storage device of the storage unit 60. In the embodiment, the storage unit 60 stores history information for each completed image processing by the image processing unit 3, which associates the date and time when the image processing was performed, the type of the image processing, the settings for the image processing, and the name of the user who performed the image processing (hereinafter also referred to as the "user name corresponding to the image processing"). The history information stored in the storage unit 60 is used for displaying the history, which will be described later.

[0022] The printer 10, scanner 20, communication unit 30, operation panel 40, control unit 50, and storage unit 60 are connected, for example, by a bus 5. In Fig. 1, all components are schematically connected to a single bus 5, but multiple buses may be present. For example, an address bus, a data bus, and a control bus may be provided.

[0023] 2 illustrates the appearance of a business multifunction peripheral as an example of the appearance of the image processing device 1. However, the image processing device 1 may be operated in any manner. For example, the image processing device 1 may be placed in a home and used domestically or personally, may be placed in a company and used by a specific number of users, or may be placed in a store such as a convenience store and used by an unspecified number of users.

[0024] (Screen display on the operation panel) 3 is a diagram showing an example of a home screen 100 displayed on the display unit 41a of the operation panel 40 according to the embodiment. The home screen 100 is a screen that is displayed, for example, when a user starts using the image processing device 1. From another perspective, the home screen 100 is a screen that is launched when the image processing device 1 is powered on, when the image processing device 1 returns from sleep mode, and / or when user authentication in the image processing device 1 is successful.

[0025] 3, a menu area 110 and a history area 120 are displayed side by side on the home screen 100. In the embodiment, the menu area 110 and the history area 120 are configured by dividing the home screen 100 into two parts, left and right. The menu area 110 may be referred to as a main display area. The history area 120 may be referred to as a timeline area.

[0026] In the menu area 110, a plurality of function buttons 111 (111a to 111f) corresponding to types of image processing are arranged. On the other hand, in the history area 120, a plurality of history buttons corresponding to completed image processing are arranged. Here, each history button displayed in the history area 120 is an individual history button 121 (121a to 121c) that displays information about completed image processing individually for each image processing. In other words, each individual history button 121 is associated with a completed image processing (specifically, a completed image processing job). Note that the information displayed on the button may be text or a symbol image. The button does not have to resemble a physical button. For example, the button may be represented only by text and / or a symbol image and may not have a border surrounding the text and / or the symbol image. From another perspective, the boundary between the area accepting user operations and the surrounding area does not have to be represented by a border or a different color.

[0027] The menu area 110 has a plurality of function buttons 111 (111a, 111b, ...) corresponding to types of image processing ("Copy," "Print," "Scan," "Fax," "Email," and "Document Box" in the example of FIG. 3). The menu area 110 may be scrollable using a scroll bar 112. While an example is shown in which the scrolling direction is horizontal, the scrolling direction may also be vertical.

[0028] The number of function buttons 111 and the types of functions corresponding to the function buttons 111 may be set as appropriate. Note that, hereinafter, the function buttons 111 may be referred to by the text displayed within the function buttons 111. The same applies to other buttons. In FIG. 3, the function buttons 111 are exemplified by a copy button 111a, a print button 111b, a scan button 111c, a fax button 111d, a mail button 111e, and a document box button 111f.

[0029] When any of the function buttons 111 in the menu area 110 of the home screen 100 is tapped, the control unit 50 controls the display unit 41a to switch the screen displayed on the display unit 41a to a screen for performing an operation related to the function corresponding to the function button 111. For example, when the copy button 111a is tapped, the control unit 50 switches from the home screen 100 to a copy screen 130 shown in FIG.

[0030] The copy screen 130 has a plurality of setting buttons 131 (131a, 131b, . . . ) for setting image processing conditions (here, copy conditions), an execution button 132 for instructing execution of a copy, and a cancel button (from another perspective, a back button) 133 for returning to the home screen 100. The number and type of setting buttons 131 are arbitrary. In the example of FIG. 4, the setting buttons 131 include a paper selection button 131a, a zoom in / out button 131b, a density button 131c, and a page aggregation button 131d. These are common buttons, so their description will be omitted. The control unit 50 sets copy conditions in response to an operation on the setting buttons 131. Then, when the execution button 132 is tapped, the control unit 50 controls the image processing unit 3 to execute a copy. When a button for returning to the home screen 100 is tapped or a certain time has passed, the control unit 50 controls the display unit 41a to switch from the copy screen 130 to the home screen 100.

[0031] Unlike the above description, the control unit 50 may control the image processing unit 3 to execute image processing (for example, copy) when the function button 111 is tapped. The image processing conditions (for example, copy settings) may be set on a dedicated screen for setting the processing conditions, which is displayed when the dedicated function button 111 for setting the conditions is tapped.

[0032] On the other hand, the history area 120 shown in FIG. 3 is a display area that displays the history of image processing that has been executed in the past. The position, shape, and area of the history area 120 are arbitrary. In the example of FIG. 3, the history area 120 is located on one side in the horizontal direction (the right side in the illustrated example) of the rectangular home screen 100, whose longitudinal direction is the horizontal direction, and has a rectangular shape whose longitudinal direction is the up-down direction. The width of the history area 120 is less than 1 / 2 or 1 / 3 of the width of the home screen 100. Note that most of the home screen 100 (e.g., 80% or more) excluding the history area 120 is the menu area 110. The history area 120 may be scrollable using a scroll bar 122. Although an example in which the scrolling direction is up-down is shown, the scrolling direction may also be left-right.

[0033] The maximum number of individual history buttons 121 that can be displayed by scrolling in the history area 120 is predetermined. For example, in the history area 120, the individual history buttons 121 for up to the most recent n jobs (n≧2) of completed image processing jobs can be displayed by scrolling. In the example of Fig. 3, the number of individual history buttons 121 that can be displayed at one time in the history area 120 is three. However, the number of individual history buttons 121 that can be displayed at one time in the history area 120 may be two or four.

[0034] The multiple individual history buttons 121 (121a, 121b, ...) are arranged in a line in a predetermined direction in the order of the date and time when the image processing corresponding to the individual history button 121 was performed (i.e., in chronological order). The multiple individual history buttons 121 may be arranged in any direction. The multiple individual history buttons 121 may be arranged in order of newest (in the illustrated example) or oldest from one side to the other in the arrangement direction (from top to bottom in the illustrated example), or may be arranged in order of oldest to newest. Alternatively, the order may be switched between newest and oldest by performing a predetermined operation on the operation panel 40. Note that, for convenience, the description of this embodiment assumes that the buttons are arranged in order of newest. Specifically, the individual history button 121a corresponding to the most recently completed image processing (hereinafter also referred to as the "newest individual history button") is arranged at the top, and the individual history button 121n corresponding to the oldest completed image processing (hereinafter also referred to as the "oldest individual history button") is arranged at the bottom.

[0035] When image processing is executed via an operation on the function button 111 or an operation on the individual history button 121, the control unit 50 adds a new individual history button 121 related to that image processing. If the image processing that caused the individual history button 121 to be added is the same as the new image processing executed via an operation on that individual history button 121, the individual history button 121 may be newly added, or the execution date and time of the image processing corresponding to the operated individual history button 121 may simply be updated (or, from another perspective, the display position of the individual history button 121 may be changed). Here, the image processing being the same may mean, for example, that everything except the execution date and time is the same. Note that, unlike the description of this embodiment, an individual history button 121 may not be added for image processing executed via an operation on the individual history button 121.

[0036] The type of image processing for which the individual history button 121 is generated is arbitrary. For example, even if the image processing device 1 has six functions exemplified in the menu area 110, it is not necessary to generate individual history buttons 121 for all of them. For example, the individual history button 121 may be generated only for image processing for which printing is performed in the image processing device 1, such as "copy" and "print" (and printing in a "box"). Furthermore, the individual history button 121 may be generated only for image processing for which scanning is performed in the image processing device 1, such as "copy," "scan," "fax," and "email." Furthermore, the individual history button 121 may be generated only for image processing for which communication is not performed, such as "copy," "print," and "scan" (and printing in a "box").

[0037] For image processing that is performed by transmitting a signal including a print job or the like from another device (for example, a PC) to the communication unit 30, the individual history button 121 may or may not be added. If it is added, for example, when a user who transmitted a print job from a PC to the image processing device 1 confirms that printing has failed in front of the image processing device 1, the user can reprint via the individual history button 121.

[0038] As described above, the number of individual history buttons 121 (including those displayed by scrolling) that can be displayed in the history area 120 is limited to a predetermined upper limit (n). Therefore, as individual history buttons 121 are added, when the number of individual history buttons 121 reaches the upper limit and a new individual history button 121 is added, the oldest individual history button 121 is deleted. In other words, the oldest individual history button 121 cannot be displayed. Note that the specific value of the upper limit (n) is arbitrary, and examples include 5, 10, or 20. The upper limit may be set by the manufacturer of the image processing device 1 and cannot be changed by the administrator or user of the image processing device 1, or may be set by the administrator of the image processing device 1. In an aspect in which the display mode of the history area 120 can be different for each user, the upper limit may be set by the user.

[0039] Each individual history button 121 includes (indicates) information about the corresponding image processing. Examples of this information include the date and time the image processing was performed, the type of image processing, the conditions (settings) for the image processing, and the name of the user who performed the image processing. Another example is the destination (sending destination and / or receiving destination) for the FAX function and / or email function. That is, each individual history button 121 indicates at least one piece of information among the type of completed image processing, the settings for the completed image processing, the processing date and time for the completed image processing, the user name corresponding to the completed image processing, and the destination for the completed image processing. This makes it easy for the user to identify the corresponding completed image processing based on the information indicated by each individual history button 121.

[0040] Each individual history button 121 may display at least one of the various pieces of information related to the image processing described above (for example, date and time, type, setting content, and user name). In a mode in which the setting content of the image processing is displayed within the individual history button 121, the specific setting content to be displayed may be selected as appropriate. The individual history button 121a shown in Fig. 3 exemplifies the color setting content (e.g., "color" or "black and white"), the magnification setting (e.g., "100%"), and the paper setting content (e.g., "A4" or "automatic").

[0041] The type of image processing information included in the individual history buttons 121 (in other words, the items displayed on the individual history buttons 121) may be the same or different between the individual history buttons 121. For example, the type of information displayed on the individual history buttons 121 may differ depending on the type of image processing. More specifically, an individual history button 121 whose image processing type is copy may not have an item for displaying the communication destination, whereas an individual history button 121 whose image processing type is fax or email may have an item for displaying the communication destination.

[0042] When the operation unit 41b receives an operation on any of the individual history buttons 121 in the history area 120, the control unit 50 controls the display unit 41a to switch to a history use screen 210 for using history information corresponding to the individual history button 121. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a screen display when the history area 120 (history button) according to the embodiment is operated. In the example of Fig. 5, it is assumed that an operation is performed on the individual history button 121b related to a FAX sent in the past.

[0043] The history use screen 210 is a screen for setting the conditions to be applied this time, using the conditions (settings) of past image processing corresponding to the operated history button as initial values. The history use screen 210 allows the user to reuse the past settings and smoothly and quickly set the settings to be applied this time. Such a display operation of the history use screen 210 is a general display operation when the history area 120 is used. In the example of FIG. 5, the history use screen 210 maintains the history area 120, and uses the area corresponding to the menu area 110 on the home screen 100 as the history use area 150.

[0044] The history utilization area 150 has, for example, a plurality of setting buttons 211 (211a, 211b, . . . ) for setting the setting contents (here, FAX conditions), an execution button 212 for instructing the execution of FAX, and a back button 213 for returning to the home screen 100. The setting buttons 211 display information indicating the type of setting item corresponding to the button. The setting buttons 211 may also display information indicating the setting status of the item corresponding to the button. In the illustrated example, the type of setting item is displayed above the setting buttons 211, and the current setting status of the item is displayed below the setting buttons 211. The number and types of setting buttons 211 are arbitrary. Here, the setting buttons 211 include a destination button 211a, a single-sided / double-sided button 211b, a density button 211c, and a group of destination designation buttons 211d. These are common features, so their description will be omitted. The destination button 211a, single-sided / double-sided button 211b, and density button 211c display the conditions of a previously executed fax as initial values. If these initial values are used as they are, the user can smoothly and quickly execute a fax under the same conditions as the previously executed fax by operating (tapping) the execute button 212.

[0045] When changing some of the conditions from the initial values, the user changes the part of the conditions by operating the corresponding setting button 211. Then, when the execute button 212 is tapped, the control unit 50 controls the image processing unit 3 to execute a FAX under the partially changed conditions. Note that when the button for returning to the home screen 100 is tapped or a certain amount of time has passed, the control unit 50 controls the display unit 41a to switch to the home screen 100. Furthermore, the layout of the various parts described above is arbitrary, and FIG. 5 is merely an example.

[0046] Note that when the individual history button 121 is selected on the home screen 100 and transition is made to the history use screen 210 (immediately after transition), the initial settings of various setting items may be set as appropriate. For example, for image processing of the same type as the type of image processing corresponding to the individual history button 121, the settings when the image processing corresponding to the individual history button 121 was performed may be set as the initial settings. For other types of image processing, the settings when the image processing corresponding to the individual history button 121 was performed may also be set as the initial settings for items common to or similar to the type of image processing corresponding to the individual history button 121. Since the configurable items (for example, processing conditions) change depending on the type of image processing, the number and types of setting buttons 211 (in other words, setting items) displayed on the history use screen 210 may change.

[0047] (Group history button) 6 is a diagram for explaining the group history button 123 according to the embodiment. In the following description of the drawings, the content displayed by each button may be simplified or omitted.

[0048] 6, in the history area 120, group history buttons 123 that display groups obtained by classifying completed image processes according to classification conditions are arranged alongside individual history buttons 121. Unlike the individual history buttons 121 that are associated one-to-one with completed image processes, the group history buttons 123 are associated with groups consisting of multiple completed image processes that meet the same classification conditions. This makes it possible to associate multiple completed image processes with one history button and specify multiple completed image processes by operating one history button.

[0049] In the embodiment, the classification condition is the processing date and time of the image processing. That is, the group history button 123 is associated with a plurality of completed image processings classified according to the processing date and time of the image processing. In other words, the group history button 123 is associated with a plurality of completed image processings within a predetermined period of time in the past. This makes it possible to specify a plurality of completed image processings within a predetermined period of time in the past by operating one history button.

[0050] The design of the outer periphery of the group history button 123 is different from the design of the outer periphery of the individual history button 121. In the example of FIG. 6, the group history button 123 has a design in which multiple buttons are overlapped. This makes it easy for the user to distinguish the group history button 123 from the individual history button 121 based on the design of the outer periphery of the group history button 123. It is sufficient that at least the design of the outer periphery of the group history button 123 is different from that of the individual history button 121. Therefore, the overall design of the group history button 123 may be different from the design of the outer periphery of the individual history button 121. For example, the color of the group history button 123 may be different from the color of the individual history button 121.

[0051] Information related to image processing displayed by group history button 123 may be the same as that displayed by individual history button 121. Group history button 123 may display information related to one completed image processing among multiple completed image processing belonging to the group (e.g., date and time, type, setting details, and user name). For example, group history button 123 displays the setting details of the one completed image processing.

[0052] The display unit 41a displays, in the history area 120, classification information 124, which is information indicating the classification conditions and is associated with the group history button 123. This allows the user to understand the group indicated by the group history button 123 based on the displayed classification information 124. In the example of FIG. 6, the classification information 124 is arranged around the group history button 123, specifically, above and along the group history button 123. By arranging the classification information 124 around the group history button 123 rather than inside the group history button 123, it is possible to simplify the display of the group history button 123 itself. However, the classification information 124 may also be arranged inside the group history button 123.

[0053] As described above, the history area 120 has a plurality of individual history buttons 121 arranged in chronological order of when image processing occurred. In an initial state in which a predetermined number (e.g., three) of individual history buttons 121 including the newest individual history button 121a are displayed in the history area 120, the display unit 41a displays a predetermined number of individual history buttons 121 including the oldest individual history button 121n in the history area 120 in response to the operation unit 41b accepting a predetermined operation on the history area 120 (e.g., a downward scroll operation). In the embodiment, the group history button 123 is arranged next to the oldest individual history button 121n. That is, when the classification condition is the processing date and time of image processing, the group history button 123 is arranged at the end of the plurality of individual history buttons 121. When the upper limit of the individual history buttons 121 that can be displayed in the history area 120 is n (e.g., 10), the group history button 123 may be arranged as the nth button or the (n+1)th button.

[0054] As described above, the history area 120 can display individual history buttons 121 for up to the most recent n jobs among the completed image processing jobs by scrolling. The group history button 123 is associated with a plurality of completed image processing jobs older than the most recent n jobs. In the example of FIG. 6, the oldest completed image processing job among the most recent n jobs is "FAX" executed at "5 / 5 10:00." A plurality of completed image processing jobs older than that are grouped together under the group history button 123. Specifically, the classification condition corresponding to the group history button 123 is "before 5 / 4 18:00," and each completed image processing job executed "before 5 / 4 18:00" is associated with the group history button 123.

[0055] When the operation unit 41b receives an operation (e.g., a tap) to select a group history button 123, the display unit 41a displays an expanded individual history button 126 for each completed image processing associated with the selected group history button 123.

[0056] 7 is a diagram showing an example of a screen display when the group history button 123 according to the embodiment is tapped. In this display example, the expanded and displayed individual history buttons 126 are arranged superimposed on the plurality of function buttons 111 in the menu area 110. For example, when the group history button 123 is tapped, the display unit 41a displays a pop-up area 115 on the menu area 110. The size of the pop-up area 115 is smaller than the size of the menu area 110. Such a pop-up display allows the user to smoothly operate the expanded and displayed individual history buttons 126.

[0057] In the pop-up area 115, individual history buttons 126 for each completed image process associated with the group history button 123 are arranged. The multiple individual history buttons 126 (126a, 126b, ...) are arranged in a line in a predetermined direction in the order of the date and time when the image process corresponding to the individual history button 126 was performed (i.e., in chronological order). The multiple individual history buttons 126 may be arranged in any direction. The multiple individual history buttons 126 may be arranged from one side to the other in the arrangement direction (from top to bottom in the illustrated example) in order of newest (in the illustrated example) or oldest. Alternatively, the order may be switchable between newest and oldest by performing a predetermined operation on the operation panel 40. Note that in the description of this embodiment, the individual history buttons 126 in the pop-up area 115 are arranged in order of newest, similar to the history buttons in the history area 120. Specifically, the newest individual history button 126a is arranged at the top, and the oldest individual history button 126n is arranged at the bottom. The pop-up area 115 may be scrollable using a scroll bar 127. Although an example in which the scrolling direction is up and down is shown, the scrolling direction may also be left and right. The maximum number of individual history buttons 126 that can be displayed by scrolling in the pop-up area 115 may be determined in advance.

[0058] The operation when an individual history button 126 arranged in the pop-up area 115 is tapped is the same as the operation when an individual history button 121 arranged in the history area 120 is tapped. That is, when the operation unit 41b receives a tap on any of the individual history buttons 126 in the pop-up area 115, the display unit 41a switches to the history use screen 210 for using the history information corresponding to that individual history button 126.

[0059] 8 is a diagram showing another example of a screen display when the group history button 123 according to the embodiment is tapped. In this display example, the expanded and displayed individual history buttons 126 are arranged in the menu area 110 in place of the multiple function buttons 111. For example, when the group history button 123 is tapped, the display unit 41a arranges (arranges) the individual history buttons 126 of each completed image processing associated with the group history button 123 in the menu area 110. By arranging the expanded and displayed individual history buttons 126 in place of the multiple function buttons 111 in the menu area 110, it is possible to display more individual history buttons 126 at one time.

[0060] Here, an example is shown in which the individual history buttons 126 are arranged in two columns, but the individual history buttons 126 may be arranged in one column or three columns depending on the size of the individual history buttons 126 and the size of the menu area 110. In this case, the menu area 110 may be scrollable using a scroll bar 127. Although an example is shown in which the scrolling direction is up and down, the scrolling direction may also be left and right.

[0061] The operation when an individual history button 126 arranged in the menu area 110 is tapped is the same as the operation when an individual history button 121 arranged in the history area 120 is tapped. That is, when the operation unit 41b receives a tap on any of the individual history buttons 126 in the menu area 110, the display unit 41a switches to a history use screen 210 for using the history information corresponding to that individual history button 126.

[0062] In the above-described display example, the expanded individual history button 126 is arranged in the menu area 110. However, the expanded individual history button 126 may be arranged in the history area 120. In this case, the multiple individual history buttons 126 are arranged in chronological order in the history area 120 following the multiple individual history buttons 121. By arranging the expanded individual history button 126 in the history area 120, it becomes easier for the user to understand that the individual history button 126 corresponds to history.

[0063] 9 is a diagram showing another example of a screen display when the group history button 123 according to the embodiment is tapped. In this display example, the individual history buttons 126 that are expanded and displayed are arranged in a new history area 120b that is provided separately from the original history area 120a in which the group history button 123 is arranged. Here, the new history area 120b is displayed side by side with the history area 120a. By displaying the new history area 120b side by side with the original history area 120a, it is possible to reduce the amount of movement of the user's gaze and finger from the original history area 120a to the new history area 120b.

[0064] For example, when the group history button 123 is tapped, the display unit 41a moves the original history area 120a in which the group history button 123 is located to the left and places a new history area 120b in the position where the original history area 120a was located. Then, the display unit 41a places (arranges) the individual history buttons 126 of each completed image processing associated with the group history button 123 in the new history area 120b. However, the positional relationship between the original history area 120a and the new history area 120b may be reversed.

[0065] Here, an example is shown in which the individual history buttons 126 are arranged in a single row in the new history area 120b, but the individual history buttons 126 may be arranged in two or more rows depending on the size of the individual history buttons 126 and the size of the menu area 110. The new history area 120b may be scrollable using a scroll bar 127. Although an example is shown in which the scrolling direction is up and down, the scrolling direction may also be left and right.

[0066] The operation when an individual history button 126 arranged in the new history area 120b is tapped is the same as the operation when an individual history button 121 arranged in the history area 120 is tapped. That is, when the operation unit 41b receives a tap on any of the individual history buttons 126 in the new history area 120b, the display unit 41a switches to the history use screen 210 for using the history information corresponding to that individual history button 126.

[0067] (Control flow of image processing device) FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a control flow of the image processing device 1 according to the embodiment.

[0068] In step S1, the control unit 50 controls the display unit 41a to display side by side a menu area 110 in which a plurality of function buttons 111 corresponding to types of image processing are arranged, and a history area 120 in which a plurality of history buttons corresponding to completed image processing are arranged.

[0069] In step S2, the operation unit 41b accepts an operation (for example, a tap) on each button arranged in the menu area 110 and the history area 120.

[0070] If the operation unit 41b receives an operation on a button other than a history button (individual history button 121 or group history button 123) located in the history area 120 (step S3: NO), the control unit 50 executes normal processing (i.e., general processing) according to the operated button.

[0071] If the operation unit 41b receives an operation to select the individual history button 121 (step S5: NO), in step S8, the control unit 50 executes processing according to the selected individual history button 121. Specifically, the control unit 50 controls the display unit 41a to switch to the history use screen 210 for using the history information corresponding to the selected individual history button 121.

[0072] If the operation unit 41b accepts an operation to select the group history button 123 (step S5: YES), in step S6, the control unit 50 controls the display unit 41a to expand and display the individual history buttons 126 of each completed image processing associated with the selected group history button 123. In step S7, the operation unit 41b accepts an operation to select one of the expanded and displayed individual history buttons 126. In step S8, the control unit 50 executes processing according to the selected individual history button 126. Specifically, the control unit 50 controls the display unit 41a to switch to the history use screen 210 for using the history information corresponding to the selected individual history button 126.

[0073] (Summary of the embodiment) In the operation panel 40 of the image processing device 1 according to the embodiment, the display unit 41a displays a menu area 110 in which a plurality of function buttons 111 corresponding to types of image processing are arranged, and a history area 120 in which a plurality of history buttons corresponding to completed image processing are arranged, side by side. The operation unit 41b accepts operations for each button arranged in the menu area 110 and the history area 120. The history area 120 is arranged with individual history buttons 121 that display information about completed image processing individually for each image processing, and group history buttons 123 that display groups obtained by classifying the completed image processing according to classification conditions. The display unit 41a displays classification information 124 indicative of the classification conditions and associated with the group history button 123 in the history area 120. This can further improve convenience for users who use the history buttons.

[0074] (First change example for group history button) FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the group history button 123 according to this modified example.

[0075] In this modified example, the group history button 123 is associated with each completed image processing operation classified according to the first classification condition. The display unit 41a displays, within the group history button 123, subgroup history buttons 125 (125a, 125a, 125c) indicating subgroups into which each completed image processing operation associated with the group history button 123 is classified according to the second classification condition.

[0076] In the illustrated example, the first classification condition is the processing date and time of image processing, specifically, a monthly history. Display unit 41a displays classification information 124a indicating the first classification condition inside group history button 123 and outside subgroup history button 125. The second classification condition is more detailed than the first classification condition, specifically, "4 / 1 to 5 / 4," "3 / 1 to 3 / 31," and "2 / 1 to 2 / 28." Display unit 41a displays classification information 124b, 124c, and 124d indicating the second classification condition inside subgroup history buttons 125a, 125a, and 125c.

[0077] By flicking the group history button 123 left or right, the period options, i.e., the subgroup history buttons 125 to be displayed, can be changed. A triangular symbol image indicating that left or right flicking is possible is attached to the group history button 123. Touching the symbol image may enable left or right scrolling. In the illustrated example, by flicking or scrolling the group history button 123 to the right, subgroup history buttons 125 corresponding to earlier periods are displayed within the group history button 123. Note that in the illustrated example, three subgroup history buttons 125 are displayed at one time within the group history button 123, but one, two, or four or more subgroup history buttons 125 may be displayed at one time within the group history button 123.

[0078] In response to the operation unit 41b receiving an operation (e.g., tap) to select one of the subgroup history buttons 125, the display unit 41a displays an expanded view of the individual history buttons 126 of each completed image processing associated with the selected subgroup history button 125. The method for displaying the individual history buttons 126 is the same as in the above-described embodiment.

[0079] According to this modification, by displaying the subgroup history buttons 125 (125a, 125a, 125c) within the group history button 123, it is possible to narrow down the individual history buttons 126 that are expanded and displayed by selecting the subgroup history button 125. This makes it possible to further improve the convenience for users who use the history buttons.

[0080] (Second example of change regarding group history button) FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining the group history button 123 according to this modified example.

[0081] In this modified example, the classification condition is the type of image processing. That is, the group history button 123 is associated with a plurality of completed image processes classified according to the type of image processing. In other words, the group history button 123 is associated with completed image processes by function of the image processing device 1. This makes it possible to specify a plurality of past completed image processes by function by operating the history button.

[0082] In the illustrated example, the group history button 123 is associated with each completed image processing operation classified according to the first classification condition. The display unit 41a displays, within the group history button 123, subgroup history buttons 125 (125a, 125a, 125c) indicating subgroups into which each completed image processing operation associated with the group history button 123 is classified according to the second classification condition.

[0083] Here, the first classification condition is a type of image processing, specifically a history by function. Display unit 41a displays classification information 124a indicating the first classification condition inside group history button 123 and outside subgroup history button 125. The second classification condition is a more detailed condition than the first classification condition, specifically, "copy," "fax," and "scan." Display unit 41a displays classification information 124b, 124c, and 124d indicating the second classification condition inside subgroup history buttons 125a, 125a, and 125c.

[0084] By flicking the group history button 123 left or right, the image processing type options, i.e., the subgroup history buttons 125 to be displayed, can be changed. A triangular symbol image indicating that left or right flicking is possible is attached to the group history button 123. Touching the symbol image may enable left or right scrolling. In the illustrated example, by flicking or scrolling the group history button 123 to the right, subgroup history buttons 125 corresponding to other functions (e.g., email, box storage, etc.) are displayed within the group history button 123. Note that in the illustrated example, three subgroup history buttons 125 are displayed at one time within the group history button 123, but one, two, or four or more subgroup history buttons 125 may be displayed at one time within the group history button 123.

[0085] In response to the operation unit 41b receiving an operation (e.g., tap) to select one of the subgroup history buttons 125, the display unit 41a displays an expanded view of the individual history buttons 126 of each completed image processing associated with the selected subgroup history button 125. The method for displaying the individual history buttons 126 is the same as in the above-described embodiment.

[0086] 12, the group history button 123 is arranged at the end of the chronological order in the history area 120. In that case, it may be necessary to scroll the history area 120 downward to display the group history button 123. Therefore, in this modified example, as shown in FIG. 13, the group history button 123 may be arranged at the beginning of the chronological order in the history area 120. In other words, when the classification condition is the type of image processing, the group history button 123 may be arranged next to the most recent individual history button 121a. This allows the user to select the group history button 123 more easily.

[0087] According to this modification, the group history button 123 can be associated with completed image processing for each function, making it easy for the user to specify completed image processing for a desired function.

[0088] (Third change example for group history button) FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining the group history button 123 according to this modified example.

[0089] In this modified example, the classification condition is the user name corresponding to the image processing. That is, the group history button 123 is associated with a plurality of completed image processing operations classified according to the user name corresponding to the image processing operation. In other words, the group history button 123 is associated with the completed image processing operations for each user in the image processing device 1. This makes it possible to specify a plurality of completed image processing operations in the past for each user who performed the image processing operation by operating the history button.

[0090] In the illustrated example, the group history button 123 is associated with each completed image processing operation classified according to the first classification condition. The display unit 41a displays, within the group history button 123, subgroup history buttons 125 (125a, 125a, 125c) indicating subgroups into which each completed image processing operation associated with the group history button 123 is classified according to the second classification condition.

[0091] Here, the first classification condition is a user name corresponding to image processing, specifically a history for each user. Display unit 41a displays classification information 124a indicating the first classification condition inside group history button 123 and outside subgroup history button 125. The second classification condition is a more detailed condition than the first classification condition, specifically, "Ito," "Kato," and "Sato." Display unit 41a displays classification information 124b, 124c, and 124d indicating the second classification condition inside subgroup history buttons 125a, 125a, and 125c.

[0092] By flicking the group history button 123 left or right, the user name options, i.e., the subgroup history buttons 125 to be displayed, can be changed. A triangular symbol image indicating that left or right flicking is possible is attached to the group history button 123. Touching the symbol image may enable left or right scrolling. In the illustrated example, by flicking or scrolling the group history button 123 to the right, subgroup history buttons 125 corresponding to other users are displayed within the group history button 123. Note that in the illustrated example, three subgroup history buttons 125 are displayed at one time within the group history button 123, but one, two, or four or more subgroup history buttons 125 may be displayed at one time within the group history button 123.

[0093] In response to the operation unit 41b receiving an operation (e.g., tap) to select one of the subgroup history buttons 125, the display unit 41a displays an expanded view of the individual history buttons 126 of each completed image processing associated with the selected subgroup history button 125. The method for displaying the individual history buttons 126 is the same as in the above-described embodiment.

[0094] 14, the group history button 123 is arranged at the end of the chronological order in the history area 120. In that case, it may be necessary to scroll the history area 120 downward to display the group history button 123. Therefore, in this modified example, as shown in FIG. 15, the group history button 123 may be arranged at the beginning of the chronological order in the history area 120. In other words, when the classification condition is the user name, the group history button 123 may be arranged next to the most recent individual history button 121a. This allows the user to select the group history button 123 more easily.

[0095] According to this modification, the group history button 123 can be associated with completed image processing for each user, making it easy to specify the completed image processing for a desired user.

[0096] In this modified example, it is assumed that the user operating the image processing device 1 can be identified by user authentication or the like. When a subgroup history button 125 of a certain user is selected, the display unit 41a may display an object for inputting authentication information (e.g., ID, password) of the user. The display unit 41a may display the expanded image only when such user authentication is successful.

[0097] (Fourth change example regarding group history button) FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining the group history button 123 according to this modified example.

[0098] In this modified example, the display unit 41a displays a plurality of group history buttons 123 that classify completed image processing according to mutually different classification conditions in the history area 120. In the illustrated example, an example in which two group history buttons 123a and 123b are displayed is shown, but three or more group history buttons 123 may be displayed in the history area 120. The display unit 41a displays classification information 124 (124a and 124b) that indicates the corresponding classification conditions for each of the plurality of group history buttons 123 (123a and 123b).

[0099] In the illustrated example, the classification condition for group history button 123a is past history (copy), specifically, the history of copies made before 10:00 on May 9th. That is, group history button 123a is associated with each copy made before 10:00 on May 9th. On the other hand, the classification condition for group history button 123b is past history (fax), specifically, the history of faxes made before 9:00 on May 7th. That is, group history button 123b is associated with each fax made before 9:00 on May 7th.

[0100] In response to the operation unit 41b receiving an operation (e.g., tap) to select one of the group history buttons 123, the display unit 41a displays an expanded view of the individual history buttons 126 of each completed image processing associated with the selected group history button 123. The method of displaying the individual history buttons 126 is the same as in the above-described embodiment.

[0101] According to this modified example, by associating different classification conditions with each group history button 123, the user can select the group history button 123 that corresponds to the desired classification condition, thereby further improving user convenience.

[0102] (5th change example for group history button) FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining the group history button 123 according to this modified example.

[0103] 17(a), the operation unit 41b receives from the user an operation to specify extraction conditions for extracting completed image processing whose information is displayed in the history area 120. In the illustrated example, buttons 128 (128a to 128d) for specifying the type of image processing as an extraction condition are arranged at the top of the history area 120. Alternatively, buttons 128 (128a to 128d) for specifying the user name as an extraction condition may be arranged at the top of the history area 120.

[0104] The classification condition of the group history button 123 is the date and time of the image processing, specifically, "before 18:00 on 5 / 4." That is, the group history button 123 is associated with each completed image processing "before 18:00 on 5 / 4."

[0105] In the illustrated example, button 128a is for selecting "all" as the type of image processing, button 128b is for selecting "copy" as the type of image processing, button 128c is for selecting "fax" as the type of image processing, and button 128d is for selecting "scan" as the type of image processing. Here, the explanation will proceed assuming that button 128c (fax) has been tapped.

[0106] As shown in FIG. 17(b), the display unit 41a displays, in the history area 120, individual history buttons 121 associated with each completed image process that matches the specified extraction condition (here, "FAX"). Furthermore, a group history button 123 is associated with each completed image process that matches both the classification condition and extraction condition of the group history button 123. Specifically, the control unit 50 associates only "FAX" among the completed image processes "before 18:00 on 5 / 4" with the group history button 123. In this way, when the individual history buttons 121 are narrowed down by type of image process, the group history buttons 123 are also narrowed down by type of image process in conjunction.

[0107] In response to the operation unit 41b receiving an operation (e.g., tap) to select the group history button 123, the display unit 41a expands and displays the individual history buttons 126 of each completed image process associated with the selected group history button 123. Specifically, the display unit 41a expands and displays the individual history button 126 of "FAX" for "before 18:00 on 5 / 4." The method of expansion and display is the same as in the above-described embodiment.

[0108] According to this modification, when narrowing down the individual history buttons 121 by the type of image processing, it is also possible to narrow down the group history buttons 123 by the type of image processing in conjunction with the individual history buttons 121. This makes it possible to further improve the convenience for users who use the history buttons.

[0109] (Example 6 of the change regarding the group history button) 18 to 20 are diagrams for explaining the group history button 123 according to this modified example.

[0110] First, as shown in FIG. 18, the operation unit 41b receives from the user an operation to specify a filtering condition for filtering the individual history buttons 126 that are expanded and displayed. For example, when the operation unit 41b receives a long press operation on the group history button 123, the display unit 41a displays a pop-up area 141 for specifying the filtering condition. In the pop-up area 141, there are arranged, as filtering conditions, a button 141a for selecting the processing date and time (period), a button 141b for selecting the type (function) of image processing, and a button 141c for selecting a user (user name). Here, the description will proceed assuming that the button 141a has been tapped. However, two or more buttons 141 (i.e., two or more conditions) may be selectable in the pop-up area 141.

[0111] Next, as shown in Fig. 19, the display unit 41a displays a pop-up area 142 for specifying a processing date and time (period). Objects 142a to 142c for specifying a start date and an end date are arranged in the pop-up area 142. The operation unit 41b accepts an operation for specifying a processing date and time (period) for these objects 142a to 142c. Here, the explanation will be given assuming that "2022 / 01 / 01 to 01 / 31" has been specified as a narrowing-down condition.

[0112] 20, the display unit 41a displays an expanded display of individual history buttons 126 for each completed image processing that matches the specified filtering conditions, among the completed image processing associated with the group history button 123. The method of expansion and display is the same as in the above-described embodiment, but in the illustrated example, the individual history buttons 126 are arranged in place of the function buttons 111 in the menu area 110.

[0113] According to this modification, it is possible to narrow down the individual history buttons 126 that are expanded and displayed, which can further improve the convenience for the user who uses the history buttons.

[0114] (Other embodiments) In the above-described embodiment and its modifications, the operation unit 41b may accept a setting operation from the user that specifies classification conditions for the group history buttons 123. The control unit 50 may set a group in response to the setting operation. For example, the control unit 50 may associate each completed image processing operation categorized according to processing date and time with the group history button 123 in response to the operation unit 41b accepting a setting operation from the user that specifies processing date and time as a classification condition. Alternatively, the control unit 50 may associate each completed image processing operation categorized according to image processing type with the group history button 123 in response to the operation unit 41b accepting a setting operation from the user that specifies image processing type as a classification condition. Alternatively, the control unit 50 may associate each completed image processing operation categorized according to user name with the group history button 123 in response to the operation unit 41b accepting a setting operation from the user that specifies user name as a classification condition.

[0115] The operational flows in the above-described embodiments do not necessarily have to be executed in chronological order according to the order shown in the flow diagrams. For example, steps in the operations may be executed in an order different from that shown in the flow diagrams, or may be executed in parallel. Furthermore, some steps in the operations may be deleted, or additional steps may be added to the process.

[0116] A program for causing the image processing device 1 to perform the operations according to the above-described embodiments may be provided. The program may be recorded on a computer-readable medium. Using the computer-readable medium, the program can be installed on a computer (image processing device 1). Here, the computer-readable medium on which the program is recorded may be a non-transitory recording medium. The non-transitory recording medium is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a recording medium such as a CD-ROM or a DVD-ROM. Furthermore, circuits that execute the processes performed by the image processing device 1 may be integrated, and at least a part of the image processing device 1 may be configured as a semiconductor integrated circuit (chip set, SoC).

[0117] As used in this disclosure, the terms "based on" and "depending on" do not mean "based only on" or "depending only on," unless otherwise specified. The term "based on" means both "based only on" and "based at least in part on." Similarly, the term "depending on" means both "depending only on" and "depending at least in part on." Furthermore, the terms "include," "comprise," and variations thereof do not mean including only the listed items, but may mean including only the listed items or may include additional items in addition to the listed items. Furthermore, the term "or" as used in this disclosure is not intended to mean an exclusive or. Furthermore, any reference to elements using designations such as "first," "second," etc., used in this disclosure does not generally limit the quantity or order of those elements. These designations may be used herein as a convenient method of distinguishing between two or more elements. Thus, a reference to a first and a second element does not imply that only two elements may be employed therein, or that the first element must in some way precede the second element. In this disclosure, where articles are added by translation, such as a, an, and the in English, these articles are intended to include the plural unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0118] The above describes the embodiments in detail with reference to the drawings, but the specific configuration is not limited to that described above, and various design changes can be made within the scope that does not deviate from the gist of the invention.

[0119] (Addendum) The following additional notes are about the features of the above-described embodiment.

[0120] (Appendix 1) a display unit (41a) that displays, side by side, a menu area (110) in which a plurality of function buttons (111) corresponding to types of image processing are arranged, and a history area (120) in which a plurality of history buttons corresponding to completed image processing are arranged; an operation panel 40 having an operation unit 41b that accepts operations on each button arranged in the menu area 110 and the history area 120, In the history area 120, an individual history button 121 that displays information on completed image processing individually for each image processing, and a group history button 123 that displays groups obtained by classifying the completed image processing according to classification conditions are arranged side by side, The display unit 41a displays, in the history area 120, classification information 124 that indicates the classification conditions and is associated with the group history button 123. Image processing device 1.

[0121] (Appendix 2) The classification conditions are any one of the processing date and time of the image processing, the type of image processing, and the user name corresponding to the image processing. 1. An image processing device 1 according to claim 1.

[0122] (Appendix 3) The operation unit 41b receives a setting operation for specifying the classification conditions from a user, The group is set in response to the setting operation. 3. An image processing device 1 according to claim 1 or 2.

[0123] (Appendix 4) The design of the outer periphery of the group history button 123 is different from the design of the outer periphery of the individual history button 121. An image processing device 1 according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 3.

[0124] (Appendix 5) The classification information 124 is arranged inside the group history button 123 or around the group history button 123. 5. An image processing device 1 according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 4.

[0125] (Appendix 6) In the history area 120, a plurality of individual history buttons 121 are arranged in chronological order of when image processing occurred, In an initial state in which a predetermined number of individual history buttons 121 including the newest individual history button 121a are displayed in the history area 120, the display unit 41a displays a predetermined number of individual history buttons 121 including the oldest individual history button 121n in the history area 120 in response to a predetermined operation on the history area 120 being accepted by the operation unit 41b; The group history button 123 is arranged next to the latest individual history button 121a or the oldest individual history button 121n. 6. An image processing device 1 according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 5.

[0126] (Appendix 7) When the classification condition is the processing date and time of image processing, the group history button 123 is arranged next to the oldest individual history button 121n. 7. The image processing device 1 according to claim 6.

[0127] (Appendix 8) When the classification condition is the type of image processing or the user name corresponding to the image processing, the group history button 123 is arranged next to the most recent individual history button 121a. 8. The image processing device 1 according to claim 6 or 7.

[0128] (Appendix 9) The group history button 123 is associated with each completed image processing classified according to the first classification condition, The display unit 41a displays, within the group history button 123, a subgroup history button 125 indicating a subgroup into which each completed image processing associated with the group history button 123 is classified according to a second classification condition. An image processing device 1 according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 8.

[0129] (Appendix 10) When a plurality of group history buttons 123 in which completed image processing processes are classified according to different classification conditions are displayed in the history area 120, the display unit 41a displays the classification information 124 indicating the corresponding classification conditions for each of the plurality of group history buttons 123. An image processing device 1 according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 9.

[0130] (Appendix 11) The operation unit 41b accepts an operation from a user to specify extraction conditions for extracting completed image processing whose information is displayed in the history area 120, The display unit 41a displays the individual history buttons 121 associated with each completed image processing that matches the extraction condition in the history area 120, The group history button 123 is associated with each completed image processing that meets both the classification condition and the extraction condition. An image processing device 1 according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 10.

[0131] (Appendix 12) In response to the operation of selecting the group history button 123 being accepted by the operation unit 41b, the display unit 41a displays an expanded individual history button 126 of each completed image processing associated with the selected group history button 123. An image processing device 1 according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 11.

[0132] (Appendix 13) The individual history button 126 that is expanded and displayed is arranged in the menu area 110 so as to be superimposed on the plurality of function buttons 111. 13. The image processing device 1 according to claim 12.

[0133] (Appendix 14) The individual history button 126 is displayed in the expanded state and is arranged in place of the plurality of function buttons 111 in the menu area 110. 13. The image processing device 1 according to claim 12.

[0134] (Appendix 15) The expanded and displayed individual history button 126 is arranged in the history area 120. 13. The image processing device 1 according to claim 12.

[0135] (Appendix 16) The individual history button 126 that is expanded and displayed is arranged in a new history area 120 that is provided separately from the history area 120. 13. The image processing device 1 according to claim 12.

[0136] (Appendix 17) The new history area 120 is displayed alongside the history area 120 17. The image processing device 1 according to claim 16.

[0137] (Appendix 18) The operation unit 41b accepts an operation from a user to specify a narrowing-down condition for narrowing down the individual history buttons 126 that are displayed in an expanded manner, The display unit 41a displays the individual history buttons of the completed image processes that match the specified narrowing conditions among the completed image processes associated with the group history buttons 123. An image processing device 1 according to any one of appendices 12 to 17.

[0138] (Appendix 19) A control method for controlling an image processing device 1, comprising: Step S1 displays, on the operation panel 40, a menu area 110 in which a plurality of function buttons 111 corresponding to types of image processing are arranged, and a history area 120 in which a plurality of history buttons corresponding to completed image processing are arranged; and step S2 of accepting, via the operation panel 40, operations on the buttons arranged in the menu area 110 and the history area 120, In the history area 120, an individual history button 121 that displays information on completed image processing individually for each image processing, and a group history button 123 that displays groups obtained by classifying the completed image processing according to classification conditions are arranged side by side, The step S1 of displaying includes a step of displaying, in the history area 120, classification information 124 that is information indicating the classification conditions and that is associated with the group history button 123. Control method.

[0139] (Appendix 20) The image processing device 1 includes: Step S1 displays, on the operation panel 40, a menu area 110 in which a plurality of function buttons 111 corresponding to types of image processing are arranged, and a history area 120 in which a plurality of history buttons corresponding to completed image processing are arranged; Step S2 of accepting, via the operation panel 40, operations on the buttons arranged in the menu area 110 and the history area 120, In the history area 120, an individual history button 121 that displays information on completed image processing individually for each image processing, and a group history button 123 that displays groups obtained by classifying the completed image processing according to classification conditions are arranged side by side, The step S1 of displaying includes a step of displaying, in the history area 120, classification information 124 that is information indicating the classification conditions and that is associated with the group history button 123. Control program. [Explanation of symbols]

[0140] 1: Image processing device 3: Image processing section 5: Bus 10: Printer 20: Scanner 30: Communications Department 40: Operation panel 41: Touch panel display 41a: Display section 41b: Operation section 41c: Physical button 50: Control unit 60: Storage section 71: Paper tray 72: Paper output tray 73: Manuscript stand

Claims

1. a display unit that displays, side by side, a menu area in which a plurality of function buttons corresponding to types of image processing are arranged, and a history area in which a plurality of history buttons corresponding to completed image processing are arranged; an operation panel having an operation unit that accepts operations on each button arranged in the menu area and the history area, In the history area, an individual history button for displaying information on completed image processing individually for each image processing, and a group history button for displaying groups obtained by classifying the completed image processing according to classification conditions are arranged side by side, The display unit displays, in the history area, classification information that indicates the classification conditions and that is associated with the group history button. Image processing device.

2. The classification conditions are any one of the processing date and time of the image processing, the type of image processing, and the user name corresponding to the image processing. The image processing device according to claim 1 .

3. the operation unit accepts a setting operation for specifying the classification conditions from a user; The group is set in response to the setting operation. The image processing device according to claim 1 .

4. The design of the outer periphery of the group history button is different from the design of the outer periphery of the individual history button. The image processing device according to claim 1 .

5. The classification information is arranged inside or around the group history button. The image processing device according to claim 1 .

6. In the history area, a plurality of individual history buttons are arranged in chronological order of occurrence of image processing, the display unit, in an initial state in which a predetermined number of individual history buttons including the newest individual history button are displayed in the history area, displays a predetermined number of individual history buttons including the oldest individual history button in the history area in response to the operation unit accepting a predetermined operation on the history area; The group history button is arranged next to the latest individual history button or the oldest individual history button. The image processing device according to claim 1 .

7. When the classification condition is the processing date and time of image processing, the group history button is arranged next to the oldest individual history button. The image processing device according to claim 6 .

8. When the classification condition is a type of image processing or a user name corresponding to the image processing, the group history button is arranged next to the most recent individual history button. The image processing device according to claim 6 .

9. the group history button is associated with each completed image processing classified according to the first classification condition; The display unit displays, within the group history button, a subgroup history button indicating a subgroup obtained by classifying each completed image processing associated with the group history button according to a second classification condition. The image processing device according to claim 1 .

10. When a plurality of group history buttons, which classify completed image processing according to different classification conditions, are displayed in the history area, the display unit displays the classification information indicating the corresponding classification condition for each of the plurality of group history buttons. The image processing device according to claim 1 .

11. the operation unit accepts an operation from a user to specify extraction conditions for extracting completed image processing whose information is to be displayed in the history area; the display unit displays the individual history buttons associated with each completed image processing that matches the extraction condition in the history area; The group history button is associated with each completed image process that meets both the classification criteria and the extraction criteria. The image processing device according to claim 1 .

12. When the operation unit receives an operation to select the group history button, the display unit displays individual history buttons of completed image processing associated with the selected group history button. The image processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. The expanded and displayed individual history button is arranged in the menu area so as to be superimposed on the plurality of function buttons. The image processing device according to claim 12.

14. The expanded and displayed individual history buttons are arranged in the menu area in place of the plurality of function buttons. The image processing device according to claim 12.

15. The individual history button that is expanded and displayed is arranged in the history area. The image processing device according to claim 12.

16. The individual history buttons that are expanded and displayed are arranged in a new history area that is provided separately from the history area. The image processing device according to claim 12.

17. The new history area is displayed alongside the history area. The image processing device according to claim 16.

18. the operation unit accepts, from a user, an operation for specifying a filtering condition for filtering the individual history buttons that are displayed in the expanded state; The display unit displays, in an expanded form, the history buttons of each completed image processing that matches the specified narrowing condition, among the completed image processing that is associated with the group history buttons. The image processing device according to claim 12.

19. A control method for controlling an image processing device, comprising: displaying, side by side, on an operation panel, a menu area in which a plurality of function buttons corresponding to types of image processing are arranged, and a history area in which a plurality of history buttons corresponding to completed image processing are arranged; and receiving, via the operation panel, operations on each button arranged in the menu area and the history area, In the history area, an individual history button for displaying information on completed image processing individually for each image processing, and a group history button for displaying groups obtained by classifying the completed image processing according to classification conditions are arranged side by side, The step of displaying includes a step of displaying, in the history area, classification information that indicates the classification condition and that is associated with the group history button. Control method.

20. The image processing device displaying, side by side, on an operation panel, a menu area in which a plurality of function buttons corresponding to types of image processing are arranged, and a history area in which a plurality of history buttons corresponding to completed image processing are arranged; receiving, by the operation panel, operations on each button arranged in the menu area and the history area; In the history area, an individual history button for displaying information on completed image processing individually for each image processing, and a group history button for displaying groups obtained by classifying the completed image processing according to classification conditions are arranged side by side, The step of displaying includes a step of displaying, in the history area, classification information that indicates the classification condition and that is associated with the group history button. Control program.

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