Information processing device and information processing method

Abstract

To provide an information processing device and the like capable of realizing high security while keeping convenience of reuse of setting history information related with execution of a novel job.SOLUTION: The device comprises a storage unit and a control unit. The storage unit stores history information related with execution of a job. In a case where the history information includes restricted information in reading the history information from the storage unit, the control unit restricts display of the restricted information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Some information processing devices, such as multifunction peripherals, store history information including setting values related to job execution (hereinafter referred to as setting history information) in a readable manner.

[0003] When executing a new job, the user can read and reuse desired setting history information, or change the setting values as needed, thereby reducing the effort, time, and other burdens associated with executing a new job.

[0004] From the viewpoint of effective use of setting history information, when a new job is executed using the setting history information, it is preferable that a setting screen be displayed that directly reflects the setting contents of the setting history information at the time of execution. As a prior art that satisfies such a requirement, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses an image forming apparatus that manages a job setting screen and job history information, and when displaying a setting screen for a new job that uses the job history, displays a setting screen that reflects the setting contents included in the job history information. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-130245 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] In the prior art, the settings at the time of job execution are reflected as they are on the setting screen for the new job. Therefore, even if the setting history information at the time of job execution includes personal information or operations that are classified as confidential, this information is disclosed to the user who executes the new job, which is undesirable from a security standpoint.

[0007] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an information processing apparatus and the like that can achieve high security while maintaining the convenience of reusing setting history information related to the execution of a new job. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to solve the above problem, the information processing device of the present disclosure includes a memory unit and a control unit, wherein the memory unit stores history information related to the execution of a job, and the control unit, when reading the history information from the memory unit, restricts the display of the restriction information if the history information includes restriction information.

[0009] In addition, the information processing method disclosed herein is characterized by including a step of storing historical information related to job execution in a storage device, and a step of restricting the display of the restricted information when the historical information includes restricted information when reading the historical information from the storage device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an information processing apparatus and the like that can achieve high security while maintaining the convenience of reusing setting history information related to the execution of a new job. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is an external perspective view for explaining the overall configuration of a multifunction peripheral according to a first embodiment; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3]FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of setting history information. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating target items and their values. [Figure 5] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of the first embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of the first embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a stamp configuration. [Figure 17] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the second embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of the second embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of the second embodiment. [Figure 20] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the third embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of the third embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In this disclosure, a multifunction peripheral that executes functions such as image transmission, faxing, and copying on a job-by-job basis will be described as one form of an information processing device. Note that the following embodiment is an example for explaining the present disclosure, and the technical scope of the description set forth in the claims is not limited to the following description.

[0013] [1 First Embodiment] The first embodiment is a multifunction device that stores setting history information including setting values related to the execution of a job in a readable manner when the job is executed, and if the setting history information includes restriction information when the setting history information is read, the display of the restriction information is restricted.

[0014] [1.1 Functional Configuration] Fig. 1 is an external perspective view that schematically illustrates the overall configuration of a multifunction device 10 according to a first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction device 10. The multifunction device 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.

[0015] The control unit 11 controls the entire multifunction device 10. The control unit 11 is configured, for example, with one or more arithmetic units (CPUs (Central Processing Units) and the like). The control unit 11 realizes its functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 23.

[0016] The display unit 13 displays various types of information to the user, etc. The display unit 13 can be configured, for example, by an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro-luminescence) display, or the like.

[0017] The operation input unit 15 accepts information input by a user or the like. The operation input unit 15 can be configured with hard keys (for example, a numeric keypad), buttons, etc. The operation input unit 15 can be configured as a touch panel that allows input via the display unit 13. In this case, the input method of the touch panel can be, for example, a resistive film method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, or a capacitance method.

[0018] The communication unit 17 has a wired / wireless interface or both for communicating with other devices via a network (NW) such as a LAN (Local area network), WAN (Wide area network), the Internet, a telephone line, a fax line, etc.

[0019] Image forming unit 19 forms an image based on image data on paper as a recording medium. Image forming unit 19 feeds paper from paper feed unit 25, forms an image on the paper based on the image data, and then discharges the paper to paper discharge unit 27. Image forming unit 19 can be configured, for example, by a laser printer that uses an electrophotographic method. Image forming unit 19 forms an image using toner supplied from toner cartridges (not shown) that correspond to toner colors (for example, C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow), and K (black)).

[0020] The image reading unit 21 generates image data by scanning and reading the document image to be read. The image reading unit 21 can be configured as a scanner device equipped with an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CIS (Contact Image Sensor). There are no limitations on the configuration of the image reading unit 21 as long as it is configured to generate image data by reading a reflected light image from the document image with an image sensor.

[0021] 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 with 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).

[0022] In the first embodiment, the storage unit 23 stores a job execution program 231, a setting history information processing program 232, a display processing program 233, and a display determination program 234, and reserves a setting value storage area 235 and a setting history information storage area 236.

[0023] The job execution program 231 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 to perform processing for each job associated with the execution of each function, such as image transmission, faxing, copying, etc. The control unit 11 that reads the job execution program 231 executes the job by controlling each unit involved in the execution of the job, such as the display unit 13, operation input unit 15, communication unit 17, image forming unit 19, and image reading unit 21. The control unit 11 that reads the job execution program 231 also executes various jobs based on setting values included in setting history information.

[0024] The setting history information processing program 232 is a program that the control unit 11 reads out when, for example, acquiring setting values related to job execution, generating setting history information, and performing various processes on the setting history information. After reading the setting history information processing program 232, the control unit 11 acquires setting values related to job execution and stores them in the setting value storage area 235. The control unit 11 also generates setting history information based on the acquired setting values and stores it in the setting history information storage area 236.

[0025] The display processing program 233 is a program that the control unit 11 reads out when displaying a display screen that displays setting history information, a setting screen for receiving input of various setting values related to job execution, or a home screen that receives switching between job functions, etc. Furthermore, when the control unit 11 reads out the display processing program 233 and determines that the setting history information includes restriction information, it performs control to restrict the display of the restriction information.

[0026] The display determination program 234 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 when determining whether or not the setting history information includes restriction information. After reading the display determination program 234, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the setting history information includes restriction information when reading the setting history information in conjunction with the execution of a new job.

[0027] The setting value storage area 235 is a storage area for storing setting values related to job execution. The setting values include, for example, setting values set by the user such as color mode, resolution, format, density, etc., and setting values such as device initial values held by the device itself.

[0028] The setting history information storage area 236 is a storage area that stores setting history information in a data table format or the like. The setting history information according to the present disclosure can be configured as history information to which an identifier such as a job ID is attached for uniquely identifying information consisting of a combination of information related to the job execution history, such as the job type, execution user name, start date and time, and mode, and some or all of the setting values stored in the setting value storage area 235. The setting history information stored in the setting history information storage area 236 is called up as appropriate when a job is executed, a display determination is made, or the like, based on the setting history information.

[0029] 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of setting history information. For example, the setting history information for job ID "025" includes, as information related to the execution history, the job type "image transmission," the execution user name "User1," the start date and time-end date and time "2019 / 12 / 04 10:30:50-2019 / 12 / 04 10:32:50," and the mode "normal." Here, the mode is a value indicating whether the job related to the setting history information was executed in normal mode via the normal setting screen or in simple mode via a simple setting screen that is a simplified version of the normal setting screen.

[0030] It should be noted that when a destination for image data or fax data is specified using an address book (not shown), transmission history, or by direct input, information about this destination can be included in the setting history information as a setting value. For example, job ID "025" shows an example in which the email address "aaaa@sample.com" is specified as the destination for image data transmission.

[0031] In addition, the setting history information for job ID "025" includes device setting values for the image sending job, such as color mode "Auto / black and white 2-value", resolution "200dpi x 200dpi", format "PDF", original (reading side) "single-sided → single-sided", and density "automatic", as well as setting values (target item values) as restriction information, such as default subject, registered subject, registered body, and registered file name.

[0032] In principle, the multifunction peripheral 10 according to the first embodiment restricts the display of security-related restriction information such as personal information when the setting history information includes such information. Here, personal information refers to information about a living individual that can identify a specific individual. Examples of information about an individual include name, date of birth, gender, address, telephone number, place of employment, occupation (industry), nationality, and registered domicile. Security information may also include, for example, identity verification information such as a passport number or My Number, account information and password information for accessing specific websites, and the like.

[0033] However, since the fixed phrases registered in the multifunction peripheral 10 are information that anyone can use and view, it is undesirable to impose unnecessary display restrictions on these fixed phrases. The multifunction peripheral 10 according to the first embodiment restricts the display of these fixed phrases when they are directly entered by the user or edited. This ensures security while ensuring convenience in using and viewing fixed phrases. In the first embodiment, restriction information such as the default subject, registered subject, registered body, and registered file name are given as examples of target items related to display determination, and when the contents of the values of these target items (target item values) are directly entered by the user or edited, the display of the restriction information is restricted.

[0034] Job ID "025" does not use the target items of default subject, registered subject, registered body, and registered file name. However, job ID "025" is an example in which the subject includes personal information such as "●●●-san" as a setting value. In this case, the subject includes restrictive information related to the security of personal information, so the control unit 11 restricts the display of the subject portion.

[0035] On the other hand, job ID "024" is an example in which a fixed phrase is used for the target item, the default subject, and the registered body. As shown in FIG. 3, "Body_2" is used as a fixed phrase for the registered body, and this "Body_2" is a value directly entered by the user. Therefore, the control unit 11 restricts the display of this registered body part. Specific examples of target item values will be explained in the next figure.

[0036] Job ID "023" is an example in which a fixed phrase is used for the target items, the registered subject and registered file name. However, these registered subject and registered file names were not directly entered or edited by the user. Therefore, the control unit 11 does not restrict the display of the registered subject and registered file name portions, but displays them as is.

[0037] 4(a) is a table explaining target item values (target setting values) according to the first embodiment. As described above, in the first embodiment, the target items are the default subject, registered subject, registered body, and registered file name. Each target item includes the values of default subject: "default_1-3", registered subject: "subject_1-3", registered body: "body_1-3", and registered file name: "file_1-3".

[0038] Figure 4(b) is a table illustrating an example of the specific content of a target item value. For example, Figure 4(b) shows that the default subject, which is one of the target items, includes "default_1" as the target item value and has the content "Regarding ***." Similarly, "default_2" as the target item value has the content "Regarding XXX," and "default_3" as the target item value has the content "Regarding XX."

[0039] The control unit 11 of the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment restricts the display of the contents of the target item values when the contents of these target item values are directly entered by the user or when edits are made.

[0040] [1.2 Processing flow] Next, a processing flow according to the first embodiment will be described. Fig. 5 is a flowchart illustrating processing by the multifunction device 10. Note that in the following description, it is assumed that a job, such as an image transmission job, a fax job, or a copy job, is executed, and that the setting history information related to that job is stored in the setting history information storage area 236 in the manner exemplified in Fig. 3.

[0041] The control unit 11 determines whether or not the setting history information has been selected by the user (step S10). The user can select desired setting history information from the setting history information displayed on a setting history display screen, which will be described later.

[0042] When the user selects the desired setting history information, the control unit 11 reads out the setting history information from the setting history information storage area 236 and analyzes it (step S10: Yes→step S20).

[0043] Based on the analysis result of the setting history information, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the analyzed setting history information includes restriction information (step S30).

[0044] If it is determined that the setting history information includes restriction information, the control unit 11 determines whether the job executor related to the setting history information is the same as the caller as the login user of the setting history information (step S30; Yes → step S40).

[0045] If it is determined that the job executor related to the setting history information and the caller of the setting history information are the same person, the control unit 11 displays the setting history information on the display unit 13 without any restrictions (step S40; Yes → step S50). On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the setting history information does not include restriction information, it displays the setting history information on the display unit 13 without any restrictions (step S30; No → step S50).

[0046] Incidentally, if it is determined that the job executor related to the setting history information and the caller of the setting history information are not the same person, the control unit 11 restricts the display of the portion related to the restriction information and then displays the setting history information on the display unit 13 (step S40; No -> step S60). Note that if user authentication is invalid, it is possible to configure the display of the portion related to the restriction information to be restricted unconditionally, or to configure the display of the portion related to the restriction information to be restricted unconditionally regardless of whether the job executor related to the setting history information and the caller of the setting history information are the same person.

[0047] When an instruction to execute a job based on the setting history information displayed on the display unit 13 is received, the control unit 11 executes the job and ends the process (step S70).

[0048] Next, the details of the process of step S20 in FIG. 5 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.

[0049] When the control unit 11 starts analyzing the setting history information, it closely examines the setting values included in the setting history information (step S2010).

[0050] The control unit 11 determines whether the setting history information includes information related to security such as personal information as restriction information (step S2012). If the control unit 11 determines that the setting history information includes information related to security, it determines that the setting history information includes restriction information and ends the process (step S2012; Yes → step S2018).

[0051] On the other hand, when the control unit 11 determines that the setting history information does not include information related to security as restriction information, it compares the target item value with the setting value (step S2012; No→step S2014).

[0052] The control unit 11 determines whether the setting values corresponding to the target item values are different (step S2016). If the control unit 11 determines that the setting values corresponding to the target item values are different, it determines that the setting history information includes restriction information, and ends the process (step S2016; Yes → step S2018).

[0053] When the control unit 11 determines that the setting values corresponding to the target item value are the same value, it determines whether the setting value was directly input by the user or edited (step S2020). When the control unit 11 determines that the setting value was directly input by the user or edited, it determines that the setting history information includes restriction information (step S2020; Yes → step S2018).

[0054] On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the setting value has not been directly input or edited by the user, it determines that the setting history information does not include restriction information, and ends the process (step S2020; No→step S2022).

[0055] [1.3 Example of operation] Next, an operation example of the first embodiment will be described. In the present disclosure, a touch panel type operation input unit 15 provided on the screen of the display unit 13 detects a user's press on each button area or the like partitioned on the screen, enabling the user to perform various inputs.

[0056] 7 shows an example of the configuration of a settings screen W10 related to an image transmission job. The settings screen W10 can be displayed during a mode selection process via a home screen (not shown). The settings screen W10 is a screen that accepts the selection and input of setting values related to image transmission.

[0057] The setting screen W10 includes an address book button B10, a setting value button B12, an operation control button B14, a start button B16, a destination display area R10, and a subject etc. display area R12.

[0058] The address book button B10 is pressed when specifying a destination to which image data is to be sent. When the address book button B10 is pressed, the control unit 11 displays an address book (not shown). In this case, the control unit 11 may display an address book managed within the multifunction device 10, or, for example, it may display an address book obtained from an external terminal device. The user can specify the destination to which image data is to be sent by selecting a desired address (email address, etc.) from the displayed address book. The control unit 11 displays the specified address in the destination display area R10.

[0059] The setting value button B12 accepts the selection and input of setting values by the user. For example, the user can set the setting value related to the color mode by pressing the color mode button and selecting a desired setting value related to color mode selection, such as "full color," "black and white," "single color," or "automatic (color / black and white binary)" (not shown). FIG. 7 shows an example in which the setting value items that can be set include color mode, resolution, format, original (scanning surface), and density. The surface of the setting value button B12 reflects and displays the values of each setting value in the applied setting history information (FIG. 7 shows an example in which the setting values related to the setting history information for job ID "025" in FIG. 3 are applied). Note that the configuration of the setting value button B12 illustrated in FIG. 7 is merely an example and is not limited to the items shown in FIG. 7.

[0060] In addition to the above setting value items, the setting value button B12 also has an "Other Functions" button. By pressing the "Other Functions" button, the user can call up and set setting value items other than the setting value items displayed on the setting value button B12.

[0061] The operation control buttons B14 include a "Preview" button, a "Reset" button, as well as a "Search Global Address Book" button, a "Transmission History" button, a "Call by Search Number" button, a "Call Program" button, a "Send Link to Save Destination" button, a "Send with Same Image as Fax Destination" button, etc. For example, by pressing the "Search Global Address Book" button, the user can specify a destination from the global address book as the destination for sending image data.

[0062] The start button B16 accepts input of an instruction to execute an image transmission job. When the start button B16 is pressed, the control unit 11 executes processing related to the image transmission job.

[0063] The destination display area R10 is a display area that displays the destination of image data entered by selecting an address from the address book mentioned above, selecting an address from the global address book, selecting an address from the transmission history, or by direct input, etc.

[0064] The subject etc. display area R12 is a display area that displays the subject, file name, etc. related to the transmission of image data. The subject etc. display area R12 can mainly display information related to the target items (subject, file name, main text, etc.). Note that by selecting "Other items" in the subject etc. display area R12, the main text display area (not shown in FIG. 7) can be expanded and displayed.

[0065] 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an authentication screen W20 for performing user authentication. A user can log in to the multifunction peripheral 10 as a login user by performing user authentication via the authentication screen W20.

[0066] The user authentication screen W20 includes a login user name input box Bx10, a login password input box Bx12, an authentication destination designation button B18, an OK button B20, and a cancel button B22.

[0067] The login user name input box Bx10 is an input box that accepts input of a login user name. A user attempting to log in to the multifunction device 10 inputs a login user name into the login user name input box Bx10. Note that the login user name can also be selected from a separately provided user name list.

[0068] The login password input box Bx12 is an input box that accepts input of a login password corresponding to a login user name. A user attempting to log in to the multifunction peripheral 10 inputs the login password together with the login user name.

[0069] The authentication destination designation button B18 is a button for accepting designation of the user authentication destination. The authentication destination may be the device itself, or, for example, an authentication server or the like separately provided on the network can be designated. When authentication by the device itself is designated as the authentication destination, the control unit 11 performs user authentication by comparing the input login user name and login password with pre-prepared authentication information (e.g., a combination of a user name and a password). When an authentication server or the like provided on the network is used, the control unit 11 can also perform user authentication by transmitting the input login user name and login password to the authentication server and receiving the authentication result from the authentication server. Note that user authentication can also be performed using possession authentication using a terminal device such as an IC (integrated circuit) card or a smartphone, or biometric authentication such as fingerprint authentication or face authentication.

[0070] The OK button B20 accepts a user's input to confirm an input operation. The user presses this button to confirm the input into the login user name input box Bx10 and the login password input box Bx12, and the designation of the authentication destination via the authentication destination designation button B18. The Cancel button B22 accepts a user's input to cancel an input operation.

[0071] 9 shows an example of the configuration of the setting history display screen W30. The setting history display screen W30 can be displayed in response to pressing a setting history display button (not shown) provided on the home screen (not shown) or the setting screen W10. By selecting desired setting history information via the setting history display screen W30, the user can execute a job by reusing the job settings associated with that setting history information.

[0072] The setting history display screen W30 includes a setting history display area R14 and a delete button B24. The setting history display area R14 is configured to display, for example, the setting history information for each job in chronological order. There are no particular limitations on the display format of the setting history information. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, various display formats are possible: displaying setting history information for all jobs, displaying only setting history information for a specific job, displaying only setting history information for jobs of the logged-in user, displaying only setting history information with the same setting value, displaying only setting history information for jobs executed within a specific period, or displaying only setting history information for a specific job-executing user.

[0073] 9 is an example of displaying setting history information for five jobs, from top to bottom, namely, an image transmission job, an image transmission job, an image transmission job, a copy job, and a fax job, in chronological order. Note that the setting history information illustrated in FIG. 9 corresponds to the setting history information for job IDs "025" to "021" illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0074] In the setting history display area R14, there are no particular restrictions on the setting value items indicated by each piece of setting history information. Because of limitations on the displayable area, there is a limit to the number of setting value items that can be displayed at one time, but the setting value items to be displayed can be selected as appropriate. Also, while Fig. 9 shows pinning for fixing each piece of setting history information on the screen, pinning does not have to be a required display item.

[0075] The setting history information displayed in the setting history display area R14 is configured to be selectable by the user. By selecting the desired setting history information, the user can easily execute a job based on that setting history information or a job similar to that setting history information.

[0076] The Delete button B24 accepts an instruction to delete setting history information from the setting history display area R 14. When the Delete button B24 is pressed by the user, the control unit 11 stops displaying the setting history information in the setting history display area R 14.

[0077] Next, an example of operation will be described in which a job including security information such as personal information is executed and the security information such as personal information is included in the generated setting history information.

[0078] 10, for example, if the subject in the subject etc. display area R12 includes security information such as personal information (e.g., "Mr. / Ms. ●●●"), the control unit 11 executes an image transmission job to the specified destination (aaaa@sample.com) and then generates setting history information including the personal information as a setting value. The control unit 11 stores the generated setting history information in the setting history information storage area 236. Note that FIG. 10 is an example of the setting screen W10 when generating setting history information related to the job ID "025" in FIG. 3.

[0079] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the display control of restriction information executed by the control unit 11 when the setting history information S10 containing personal information in the subject line is selected by the user.

[0080] When the user selects setting history information S10 via the setting history display screen W30, the control unit 11 executes the processes from step S20 to step S60 in Fig. 5 and the processes in Fig. 6. As described in Fig. 10, setting history information S10 is an example of setting history information that includes personal information in the subject (see Fig. 3). Therefore, the control unit 11 determines that the setting history information S10 includes restriction information. Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the person who executed the job related to the setting history information is the same person who called the setting history information.

[0081] If the person who executed the job related to the setting history information and the person who called the setting history information are the same, the control unit 11 displays the subject portion as restricted information without any restrictions, as shown in (1) of Fig. 11. That is, the control unit 11 displays the setting history information as is. On the other hand, if the person who executed the job related to the setting history information and the person who called the setting history information are not the same, the control unit 11 restricts the display of the subject portion as restricted information, as shown in (2) of Fig. 11 (Fig. 11 is an example of a case where the restricted information is not displayed).

[0082] Next, an example of operation when a setting value (text) corresponding to a target item value of setting history information is directly input or edited by the user will be described.

[0083] As shown in the example of FIG. 12, when the target item value includes a corresponding setting value (subject: "Regarding ***" and message body: "Conference materials are attached"), the control unit 11 executes an image transmission job for the specified destinations (bbbb@sample.com, cccc@sample.com) and then generates setting history information including the setting value. The control unit 11 stores the generated setting history information in the setting history information storage area 236. Note that FIG. 12 is an example of the setting screen W10 when generating setting history information corresponding to the job ID "024" in FIG. 3.

[0084] Figure 13 is a diagram explaining the display control of restriction information performed by the control unit 11 when the setting history information S12 including the setting values (subject: "Regarding ***" and body: "Meeting materials are attached") is selected by the user.

[0085] When the user selects setting history information S12 via the setting history display screen W30, the control unit 11 executes the processes related to steps S20 to S60 in Fig. 5 and the processes related to Fig. 6. As described in Fig. 12, the setting history information S12 includes a setting value corresponding to the target item value (text: "Conference materials are attached") and is an example of setting history information directly input by the user (see Fig. 3). Therefore, the control unit 11 determines that the setting history information S12 includes restriction information. Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the person who executed the job related to the setting history information and the person who called the setting history information are the same person.

[0086] If the person who executed the job related to the setting history information and the person who called the setting history information are the same, the control unit 11 displays the main text portion as restricted information without any restrictions, as shown in (1) of FIG. 13. That is, the control unit 11 displays the setting history information as is. On the other hand, if the person who executed the job related to the setting history information and the person who called the setting history information are not the same, the control unit 11 restricts the display of the main text portion as restricted information, as shown in (2) of FIG. 13 (FIG. 13 is an example of a case where the restricted information is not displayed). Note that, as the subject portion is the default subject_1, which contains the content "Regarding ***", the control unit 11 does not control the display of the subject portion.

[0087] Next, an example of operation will be described in which the setting values (subject and file name) corresponding to the target item values of the setting history information have not been directly input or edited by the user.

[0088] As shown in the example of FIG. 14, if the target item value includes a setting value (subject: "Matter of sending minutes", file name: "file_001"), the control unit 11 executes an image transmission job to the specified destination (dddd@sample.com) and then generates setting history information including the setting value. The control unit 11 stores the generated setting history information in the setting history information storage area 236. Note that FIG. 14 is an example of the setting screen W10 when generating setting history information corresponding to the job ID "023" in FIG. 3.

[0089] Figure 15 is a diagram explaining the display control of restriction information performed by the control unit 11 when the setting history information S14 including the setting value (subject: "Matter of sending minutes", file name: "file_001") is selected by the user.

[0090] When the user selects setting history information S14 via the setting history display screen W30, the control unit 11 executes the processes from step S20 to step S60 in Fig. 5 and the processes in Fig. 6. As described in Fig. 14, setting history information S14 includes the setting value corresponding to the target item value (subject: "Matter of sending minutes", file name: "file_001"), but is an example of setting history information that has not been directly input or edited by the user (see Fig. 3). Therefore, the control unit 11 determines that the setting history information S14 does not include restriction information. Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the person who executed the job related to the setting history information and the person who called the setting history information are the same person.

[0091] However, since the control unit 11 determines that the setting history information S14 does not contain any restriction information, the control unit 11 displays the subject and file name as restriction information without any restrictions, regardless of whether the executor of the job related to the setting history information and the caller of the setting history information are the same person. In other words, the control unit 11 displays the setting history information as is (FIGS. 15(1) and (2)).

[0092] As described above, according to the first embodiment, when setting history information is read, if the setting history information includes restriction information, the display of the restriction information can be restricted. Furthermore, since the configuration is such that the display of the restriction information is restricted when the executor of the job related to the setting history information and the caller of the setting history information are not the same person, it is possible to provide an information processing device or the like that can achieve high security while maintaining the convenience of reusing setting history information for executing a new job.

[0093] [2 Second embodiment] The second embodiment is a form of controlling the display of setting history information that includes, as restriction information (setting values), stamps such as "Confidential" or "Confidential" or added information such as watermarks that are added to printed matter output by a copy job or image data sent by an image transmission job. The second embodiment achieves high security by controlling the display of setting values that allow the operation of the executed job to be inferred from the setting history information.

[0094] [2.1 Functional Configuration] The functional configuration of the second embodiment can be the same as the functional configuration of the multifunction device 10 of the first embodiment. Therefore, a description of the functional configuration of the multifunction device of the second embodiment will be omitted, and the same reference numerals as those of the multifunction device 10 of the first embodiment will be used in the description.

[0095] The setting history information according to the second embodiment will be described again with reference to Fig. 3. The setting history information relating to job ID "022" in Fig. 3 is an example that includes stamp assignment information as restriction information (setting value). The setting history information relating to job ID "0022" includes, as information relating to the execution history, the job type "copy", the execution user name "User4", the start date and time-end date and time "2019 / 12 / 04 09:10:10-2019 / 12 / 04 09:10:50", and the mode "normal".

[0096] The setting history information for job ID "022" includes device setting values such as color mode "full color," original "automatic," paper selection "No. 1," double-sided copy "single-sided to single-sided," magnification "100%," and density "automatic," as well as the setting value of stamp "type_1" as restriction information.

[0097] FIG. 16 is a table illustrating an example of specific settings of stamps (type_1 to type_3). The stamps illustrated in the second embodiment include settings related to the handling of confidential documents, such as type_1 (top secret), type_2 (copy strictly prohibited), and type_3 (company confidential). For example, when a "top secret" stamp is affixed to a printed matter or image data and the data is output or transmitted, "type_1" is recorded as the setting value of the stamp in the setting history information. Note that the setting values of the stamps described in FIG. 16 are merely examples, and the description in FIG. 16 does not limit the setting values of stamps or watermarks according to the present disclosure.

[0098] [2.2 Processing flow] Next, the flow of processing according to the second embodiment will be described. The processing according to the second embodiment can be performed in the same manner as the processing described in the first embodiment, except for step S20 in Fig. 5. The processing according to step S20 in Fig. 5 will be described using the flowchart in Fig. 17.

[0099] When the control unit 11 starts analyzing the setting history information, it examines the setting values included in the setting history information (step S2024). The control unit 11 determines whether or not a setting value related to a stamp has been set (step S2026). If it is determined that a setting value related to a stamp has been set, the control unit 11 determines that the setting history information includes restriction information and terminates the process (step S2026; Yes → step S2028). On the other hand, if it is determined that a setting value related to a stamp has not been set, the control unit 11 determines that the setting history information does not include restriction information and terminates the process (step S2026; No → step S2030).

[0100] [2.3 Example of operation] Next, an example of operation of the second embodiment will be described. Fig. 18 shows an example of the configuration of a settings screen W40 related to a copy job. The settings screen W40 can be displayed during a mode selection process via a home screen (not shown). The settings screen W40 is a screen that accepts the selection and input of settings related to copying.

[0101] The setting screen W40 includes a setting value button B26, an operation control button B28, a number of copies setting button B30, and a start button B32.

[0102] The setting value button B26 accepts the selection and input of setting values by the user. For example, the user can set the setting value related to the color mode by pressing the color mode button and selecting the desired setting value from items related to color mode selection, such as "full color," "black and white," "single color," and "automatic (color / black and white)," not shown. Figure 18 shows an example in which seven setting value items are provided as configurable setting value items: color mode, original, paper selection, double-sided copy, magnification, copy density, and stamp.

[0103] The stamp button B261 provided in the setting value buttons B26 is pressed when a stamp is to be applied to a printed product that is the output result of a copy job. The user can select a setting value related to the stamp by pressing the stamp button B261 and selecting a desired setting value from items related to stamp selection, such as "Type_1," "Type_2," "Type_3," or "No Stamp," not shown.

[0104] Incidentally, each setting value displayed on the surface of the setting value button B26 is displayed reflecting the setting value of the applied setting history information (FIG. 18 shows an example in which the setting values related to the setting history information of job ID "022" in FIG. 3 are applied). Note that the configuration of the setting value button B26 illustrated in FIG. 18 is merely an example, and is not limited to the items described in FIG. 18.

[0105] In addition to the above setting value items, the setting value button B26 also has an "Other Functions" button. By pressing the "Other Functions" button, the user can call up and set setting value items other than the setting value items displayed on the setting value button B26.

[0106] The operation control buttons B28 include a "Preview" button, a "Reset" button, a "Print and Send" button, a "Recent Jobs" button, a "Program Call" button, an "Auto Temporary Save" button, a "Filing" button, a "Call Eco Program" button, etc. For example, by pressing the "Print and Send" button, the user can send the same image as the printed image to a specified destination while executing a copy job.

[0107] The number of copies setting button B30 has an input box for inputting a numerical value, and accepts input of the number of copies.

[0108] The start button B32 includes a black and white start button and a color start button. If a black and white copy is desired, the user presses the black and white start button. On the other hand, if a color copy is desired, the user presses the color start button. When the user presses either the black and white start button or the color start button, processing related to the copy job is executed.

[0109] Next, an example of operation when the setting history information includes added information such as a stamp as restriction information (setting value) will be described.

[0110] 18, for example, if a setting value of Type_1 is set as a stamp, the control unit 11 generates setting history information including the setting value of the stamp after executing a copy job. The control unit 11 stores the generated setting history information in the setting history information storage area 236. Note that FIG. 18 is an example of the setting screen W40 when generating setting history information related to the job ID "022" in FIG. 3.

[0111] FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating the display control of the restriction information executed by the control unit 11 when the setting history information S16 including the setting value of the stamp is selected by the user.

[0112] When the user selects setting history information S16 via the setting history screen W30, the control unit 11 executes the processes from step S20 to step S60 in Fig. 5 and the process in Fig. 17. As described in Fig. 18, the setting history information S16 is an example of setting history information that includes stamp setting values (see Fig. 3). Therefore, the control unit 11 determines that the setting history information S16 includes restriction information. Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the person who executed the job related to the setting history information and the person who called the setting history information are the same person.

[0113] If the person who executed the job related to the setting history information and the person who called the setting history information are the same, the control unit 11 displays the setting value of the stamp as the restriction information on the surface of the stamp button B261 without any restrictions, as shown in (1) of FIG. 19. That is, the control unit 11 displays the setting history information as is. On the other hand, if the person who executed the job related to the setting history information and the person who called the setting history information are not the same, the control unit 11 restricts the display of the setting value of the stamp as the restriction information, as shown in (2) of FIG. 19 (FIG. 19 is an example where the restriction information is not displayed). Note that if user authentication is invalid, it is possible to unconditionally restrict the display of the part related to the restriction information, or to unconditionally restrict the display of the part related to the restriction information regardless of whether the person who executed the job related to the setting history information and the person who called the setting history information are the same.

[0114] As described above, according to the second embodiment, when setting history information is read, if the setting history information includes restriction information, the display of the restriction information can be restricted. Furthermore, if the person who executes the job related to the setting history information and the person who calls the setting history information are not the same person, it is possible to impose a display restriction on the restriction information. Therefore, it is possible to achieve high security, such as preventing the inference that a highly confidential document has been handled, while maintaining the convenience of reusing setting history information for the execution of a new job.

[0115] [3 Third embodiment] The third embodiment is an embodiment that realizes high security by restricting the display of destinations of fax data or image data in a fax job or an image transmission job, for example.

[0116] [3.1 Functional Configuration] The functional configuration according to the third embodiment can be the same as the functional configuration of the multifunction device 10 according to the first or second embodiment. Therefore, a description of the functional configuration of the multifunction device according to the third embodiment will be omitted, and the same reference numerals as those of the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment will be used in the description.

[0117] Setting history information according to the third embodiment will be described again with reference to Fig. 3. The setting history information relating to job ID "021" in Fig. 3 is an example that includes setting values relating to destination redisplay settings. The setting history information relating to job ID "021" includes, as information relating to the execution history, the job type "fax," the execution user name "User5," the start date and time-end date and time "2019 / 12 / 04 09:05:00-2019 / 12 / 04 09:06:10," and the mode "normal."

[0118] The setting history information for job ID "021" includes device setting values such as density "Automatic", image quality "Normal character", bulk document mode "No", thin paper reading "No", and thick paper reading "No", as well as a setting value for destination re-display "Yes" as restriction information.

[0119] [3.2 Processing flow] Next, the flow of processing according to the third embodiment will be described. The processing according to the third embodiment can be performed in the same manner as the processing described in the first embodiment, except for step S20 in Fig. 5. The processing according to step S20 in Fig. 5 will be described using the flowchart in Fig. 20.

[0120] When the control unit 11 starts analyzing the setting history information, it closely examines the setting values included in the setting history information (step S2032). The control unit 11 determines whether or not a setting value related to destination re-display has been set (step S2034). If it is determined that a setting value related to destination re-display has been set, the control unit 11 determines that the setting history information includes restriction information, and terminates the process (step S2034; Yes→step S2036). On the other hand, if it is determined that a setting value related to destination re-display has not been set, the control unit 11 determines that the setting history information does not include restriction information, and terminates the process (step S2034; No→step S2038).

[0121] [3.3 Example of operation] Next, an example of the operation of the third embodiment will be described. Fig. 21 shows an example of the configuration of a setting screen W50 related to a fax job. The setting screen W50 can be displayed during a mode selection process via a home screen (not shown). The setting screen W50 is a screen that accepts the selection and input of setting values related to faxing.

[0122] The setting screen W50 includes an address book button B34, a setting value button B36, an operation control button B38, a fax number setting button B40, a start button B42, and a destination display area R16.

[0123] The address book button B34 is pressed when specifying a destination for sending fax data. When the address book button B34 is pressed, the control unit 11 displays an address book (not shown). In this case, the control unit 11 may display an address book managed within the multifunction device 10, or, for example, an address book obtained from an external terminal device. The user can specify the destination for sending fax data by selecting a desired address (such as a fax number) from the displayed address book. The control unit 11 displays the specified address in the destination display area R16.

[0124] The setting value button B36 accepts the selection and input of a setting value by the user. For example, the user can set a setting value related to density by pressing the density button and selecting a desired setting value from items related to density selection, such as "dark," "normal," "light," and "automatic," not shown. FIG. 21 shows an example in which seven setting value items are provided as configurable setting value items: "density," "image quality," "original," "bulk original mode," "thin paper reading," "thick paper reading," and "address redisplay."

[0125] The Redisplay Destination button B361 provided in the setting value buttons B36 is pressed when setting the redisplay of the destination of fax data. The user can select the setting value related to the redisplay of the destination by pressing the Redisplay Destination button B361 and selecting the desired setting value from the options related to the redisplay of the destination, such as "Yes" or "No" (not shown).

[0126] Incidentally, each setting value displayed on the surface of the setting value button B36 is displayed reflecting the setting value of the applied setting history information (FIG. 21 shows an example in which the setting values related to the setting history information of job ID "021" in FIG. 3 are applied). Note that the configuration of the setting value button B36 illustrated in FIG. 21 is merely an example, and is not limited to the items described in FIG. 21.

[0127] In addition to the above setting value items, the setting value button B36 also has an "Other Functions" button. By pressing the "Other Functions" button, the user can call up and set setting value items other than the setting value items displayed on the setting value button B36.

[0128] The operation control buttons B38 include, in addition to a "Preview" button and a "Reset" button, for example, a "Search Global Address Book" button, a "Transmission History" button, a "Call by Search Number" button, a "Direct Send" button, a "Program Call" button, and a "Send with the same image as the fax destination" button, etc. For example, by pressing the "Global Address Book" button, a fax destination can be selected from the global address book.

[0129] The fax number setting button B40 has an input box for entering a number and accepts the input of a fax number.

[0130] The start button B42 accepts input of an instruction to execute a fax job. When the start button B42 is pressed, processing related to the fax job is executed.

[0131] The destination display area R16 is a display area that displays the fax destination as the destination, selected from the address book mentioned above, selected from the global address book, selected from the transmission history, or entered by direct input, etc.

[0132] Next, an example of operation when the setting history information includes a setting value related to address redisplay will be described.

[0133] 21, for example, when a setting value for redisplaying a destination is set by pressing the redisplaying a destination button B361, the control unit 11 generates setting history information including the setting value for redisplaying a destination after executing a fax job. The control unit 11 stores the generated setting history information in the setting history information storage area 236. Note that FIG. 21 is an example of the setting screen W50 when generating setting history information related to the job ID "021" in FIG. 3.

[0134] 22 is a diagram illustrating the display control of restriction information executed by the control unit 11 when the setting history information S18 including the setting value for destination redisplay is selected by the user. When the setting history information S18 is selected by the user, it is preferable that the destination S181 (destination for fax data transmission) included in the setting history information S18 is not displayed.

[0135] When the user selects setting history information S18 via the setting history screen W30, the control unit 11 executes the processes related to steps S20 to S60 in Fig. 5 and the process related to Fig. 20. As described in Fig. 21, setting history information S18 is an example of setting history information that includes the setting value for redisplaying destinations ("Yes") (see Fig. 3). Therefore, the control unit 11 determines that the setting history information S18 includes restriction information. Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the person who executed the job related to the setting history information and the person who called the setting history information are the same person.

[0136] If the person who executed the job related to the setting history information and the person who called the setting history information are the same, the control unit 11 displays the destination (fax number) in the destination display area R16 without any restrictions, as shown in (1) of Fig. 22. On the other hand, if the person who executed the job related to the setting history information and the person who called the setting history information are not the same, the control unit 11 restricts the display of the destination (fax number) in the destination display area R16, as shown in (2) of Fig. 22 (Fig. 22 is an example in which the restricted information is not displayed).

[0137] As described above, according to the third embodiment, when setting history information is read, if the setting history information includes restriction information, the display of the restriction information can be restricted. Furthermore, if the executor of the job related to the setting history information and the caller of the setting history information are not the same person, it is possible to impose a display restriction on the restriction information. Therefore, it is possible to provide an information processing device and the like that can achieve high security while maintaining the convenience of reusing setting history information for executing a new job.

[0138] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible. In other words, embodiments obtained by combining technical means that are appropriately modified within the scope of the present invention are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0139] Furthermore, although the above-described embodiments are described separately for the sake of convenience, they may of course be combined and executed within the scope of technical feasibility.

[0140] In addition, the programs that run on each device in the embodiments are programs that control the CPU, etc. (programs that make a computer function) so as to realize the functions of the above-described embodiments. Information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (e.g., RAM) during processing, and then stored in various storage devices such as ROMs (Read Only Memories) and HDDs, and is read, modified, and written by the CPU as needed.

[0141] Here, the recording medium for storing the program may be any of semiconductor media (e.g., ROM, non-volatile memory card, etc.), optical recording media / magneto-optical recording media (e.g., DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), MO (Magneto Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), CD (Compact Disc), BD (Blu-ray Disc (registered trademark), etc.)), magnetic recording media (e.g., magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.). Furthermore, not only are the functions of the above-described embodiments realized by executing the loaded program, but the functions of the present invention may also be realized by processing in cooperation with an operating system or other application programs, etc., based on instructions from the program.

[0142] Furthermore, when distributing the program on the market, the program can be stored on a portable recording medium and distributed, or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the storage device of the server computer is of course included in the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0143] 10 Multifunction device 11 Control section 13 Display section 15 Operation input section 17 Communications Department 19 Image forming unit 21 Image reading unit 23 Memory section 231 Job Execution Program 232 Setting history information processing program 233 Display Processing Program 234 Display Judgment Program 235 Setting value storage area 236 Setting history information storage area 25 Paper feed section 27 Paper output section

Claims

1. a storage unit that stores setting values included in history information relating to job execution; a control unit that controls application of the setting value to execution of the job using the history information; The control unit An information processing device characterized in that, when reading the history information from the memory unit, if the setting value included in the history information includes the setting value related to restriction information, the application of the setting value included in the history information to the execution of the job is restricted.

2. The control unit The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein application of the setting value included in the history information is restricted when an executor of the job related to the history information is different from a caller of the history information.

3. The control unit An information processing device as described in claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that if the setting value included in the history information includes a setting value related to any of the restriction information such as personal information, information that can be used to operate the job from the history information, or destination information, the application of the setting value included in the history information is restricted.

4. The control unit An information processing device as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the setting value included in the history information is compared with a pre-registered target item value, and if the setting value included in the history information differs from the target item value, if the setting value has been directly input by a user, or if the setting value has been edited, the application of the setting value included in the history information is restricted.

5. The control unit 5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, when the job is a transmission job for transmitting a file, the target item value of at least one of the subject, body, or file name is compared with the setting value included in the history information.

6. The control unit 5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, when the job is a transmission job for transmitting a file, the target item value relating to stamp attachment information is compared with the setting value included in the history information.

7. The control unit The information processing apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the setting value included in history information relating to a user who has logged in to the information processing apparatus is applied to the execution of the job.

8. storing the setting values included in the history information relating to the execution of the job in a storage device; An information processing method characterized in that, when reading the history information from the storage device, if the setting value included in the history information includes the setting value related to restriction information, the application of the setting value included in the history information to the execution of the job is restricted.

Images