Screen display method and communication device

Abstract

To provide a screen display method and the like that can improve the user's operational experience regarding device settings via an initial setting wizard.SOLUTION: In a screen display method for a communication device, which displays a group of screens having the same screen attributes as an initial setup wizard at the first startup, the group of screens includes at least a first group of screens having screen attributes for accepting required device settings to comply with various legal regulations, a second group of screens having screen attributes for accepting recommended device settings to comply with various legal regulations, and a third group of screens having screen attributes for accepting one or more device settings required for a user to use the communication device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a screen display method and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, with the establishment of laws such as the Cyber Resilience Act, RED (EU Radio Equipment Directive 2014 / 53 / EU), and IoT Cybersecurity Improvement Act, telecommunications devices entering the market in regions and countries to which these laws and regulations apply are required to take measures to comply with those laws and regulations.

[0003] Incidentally, image forming devices such as multifunction peripherals are known to have a function (hereinafter referred to as an initial setting wizard in this disclosure) that allows the device settings required for device operation to be performed interactively with the user when the device is started for the first time after being powered on or when the device is started after being initialized (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-156206 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The present disclosure aims to provide a screen display method and the like that can improve the user's operational experience when configuring a device via an initial setup wizard. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problem, the screen display method of the present disclosure is a screen display method for a communication device, which displays a group of screens having the same screen attributes as an initial setup wizard at the first startup, and is characterized in that the group of screens includes at least a first group of screens having screen attributes for accepting required device settings to comply with various legal regulations, a second group of screens having screen attributes for accepting recommended device settings to comply with various legal regulations, and a third group of screens having screen attributes for accepting one or more device settings required for the user to use the communication device.

[0007] In addition, the communication device of the present disclosure is characterized in that it comprises a display unit that displays a group of screens having the same screen attributes as an initial setup wizard upon initial startup, and a control unit that controls the display of the initial setup wizard on the display unit, and the group of screens includes at least a first group of screens having screen attributes that accept required device settings to comply with various legal regulations, a second group of screens having screen attributes that accept recommended device settings to comply with various legal regulations, and a third group of screens having screen attributes that accept one or more device settings required for the user to use the communication device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a screen display method and the like that can improve the user's operational experience regarding device configuration via an initial setup wizard. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating the overall configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 10 is a table illustrating a wizard screen according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 17] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the second embodiment. [Figure 18] 10 is a table for explaining types of the initial setting wizard according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In this disclosure, for example, a multifunction peripheral capable of performing jobs related to copying, faxing, email, etc. in a single housing will be described as one form of an image forming apparatus equipped with a communication device according to the present disclosure. Note that the following embodiment is an example for explaining the present disclosure, and the technical content of the description set forth in the claims is not limited to the following description.

[0011] In Europe, the United States, and Asian countries, including Japan, legal regulations are being established to strengthen the security of IoT (Internet of Things) devices (especially communication devices). Communication devices introduced into the markets of these regions and countries must comply with these laws and regulations, and some devices require users to configure the necessary settings.

[0012] Here, for example, the image forming device according to Patent Document 1 is configured to enable specific device settings to be made via an initial setting wizard that is always executed when the image forming device is first started up in its factory-shipped state.

[0013] However, the initial setting wizard in Patent Document 1 only mentions settings related to the automatic setting of the sender for the sending process, and does not mention device settings for compliance with legal regulations or device settings that would be beneficial to the user if set at the time of initial startup.

[0014] In the present disclosure, the following embodiments realize a screen display method and the like that can improve the user's operational experience regarding device configuration via an initial setting wizard.

[0015] [1 First Embodiment] [1.1 Functional Configuration] 1 is a diagram illustrating the overall configuration of an image forming apparatus 100 equipped with a communication device 103 according to the first embodiment. Note that in the first embodiment, a multifunction peripheral will be described as an example of the image forming apparatus 100, but the image forming apparatus 100 is not particularly limited as long as it is equipped with the communication device 103 according to the first embodiment, and may be, for example, a printer, a copier, a fax machine, or the like, with limited types of job functions.

[0016] Fig. 2(a) is a diagram illustrating the device configuration of an image forming apparatus 100. The image forming apparatus 100 has a control device 101, a communication device 103, an image processing device 105, and a printing device 107. The devices shown in Fig. 2(a) may be formed integrally, or may be configured as a combination of multiple devices. For example, the image processing device 105 and the printing device 107 may be a single device.

[0017] Fig. 2(b) is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the image forming apparatus 100. Each of the functions shown in Fig. 2(b) may be provided by each of the devices shown in Fig. 2(a) as needed.

[0018] The image forming apparatus 100 includes, as functional components, a control unit 11, a display unit 13, an operation input unit 15, a communication unit 17, a storage unit 19, and an image processing unit 21.

[0019] The control unit 11 controls the entire image forming apparatus 100. The control unit 11 can be configured with one or more processing devices (for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an SoC (System on Chip), etc.). The control unit 11 realizes its functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 19.

[0020] The display unit 13 is a display device that displays various information to the user, etc. The display unit 13 can be configured, for example, with an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, etc. The display unit 13 displays, for example, a home screen (not shown) and operation screens such as setting screens related to the execution of each job, as well as a group of screens having the same screen attributes as an initial setting wizard.

[0021] The operation input unit 15 is an input device that accepts information input by a user or the like. The operation input unit 15 can be configured with various input devices, such as operation keys such as hardware keys or software keys, buttons, etc. The operation input unit 15 can also be configured as a touch panel that allows input via the display unit 13. When configured as a touch panel, the operation input unit 15 can detect a user's touch, tap, swipe, etc. on an object displayed via the display unit 13, and acquire coordinate information, pressure-sensitive information, etc. on the touch panel. In this case, the input method of the touch panel can be, for example, a general input method such as a resistive film method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, or a capacitive method.

[0022] The communication unit 17 has either a wired or wireless interface or both for communicating with other terminal devices (not shown) via a network NW such as a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), the Internet, a telephone line, a FAX line, etc. Furthermore, for example, the communication unit 17 may have an interface related to wireless communication technology such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC (Near Field Communication), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), ZigBee (registered trademark), IrDA (Infrared Data Association), or wireless USB (Universal Serial Bus).

[0023] The storage unit 19 is one or more storage devices that store various programs and various data required for the operation of the image forming apparatus 100. The storage unit 19 can be configured with storage devices such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), an SSD (Solid State Drive), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or a ROM (Read Only Memory).

[0024] In the first embodiment, the storage unit 19 stores a start control program 191, a control program 192, a display control program 193, and a job control program 194, and reserves a screen information storage area 195.

[0025] The boot control program 191 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 when the image forming apparatus 100 is booted. The control unit 11 that has read the boot control program 191 controls the boot process of the image forming apparatus 100. Such a boot control program 191 may be included in, for example, boot firmware or main firmware that is booted based on verification by the boot firmware. Note that the boot control program 191 may be stored in another storage device (storage area) (not shown) different from the storage unit 19 in order to achieve secure boot, or may be stored in another terminal device (not shown) on the network NW.

[0026] The startup control program 191 includes a wizard setting program 1911. The control unit 11 reads out the wizard setting program 1911 when the image forming apparatus 100 is started up, for example, at the first startup after power-on (initial startup) or at the first startup after initialization of the storage unit 19, which requires initial settings.

[0027] The control unit 11 that reads the wizard setting program 1911 sets a screen group described below and screens belonging to the screen group as an interface for the initial setting wizard, for example, depending on the preset input destination (destination) of the image forming device 100 (note that in this disclosure, a screen that functions as an initial setting wizard and can assist the user in device settings and accept input for device settings is called a wizard screen, and a collection of wizard screens having the same screen attributes is called a screen group).

[0028] The control program 192 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 after the device is started up based on the startup control program 191. The control unit 11 that has read the control program 192 functions as an OS (Operating System) and controls the driving of hardware such as the display unit 13, the operation input unit 15, the communication unit 17, and the image processing unit 21. At this time, the control unit 11 controls the driving of the image forming device 100 based on the initial settings (device settings) received via the wizard screen.

[0029] The display control program 193 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 when controlling the output of an operation screen displayed on the display unit 13 or the operation input unit 15 configured as a touch panel. The control unit 11 that reads the display control program 193 controls the display of a wizard screen.

[0030] The job control program 194 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when executing a print job related to printing, copying, etc., or a job related to faxing or image transmission. After reading the job control program 194, the control unit 11 transitions to a job mode (print mode, copy mode, fax mode, image transmission mode, etc.) for executing each job and executes the job. When executing a job, the control unit 11 can display an operation screen on the touch panel as necessary to accept selection of setting values and functions required for executing the job from the user. The control unit 11 can execute the job based on the setting values and functions accepted via the operation screen.

[0031] The screen information storage area 195 is a storage area for storing screen information constituting a wizard screen or an operation screen for executing a job. The control unit 11 that reads the display control program 193 controls the display of the wizard screen or the operation screen based on the screen information stored in the screen information storage area 195.

[0032] Here, the wizard screen according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the table in FIG.

[0033] In the present disclosure, wizard screens that share common attributes such as purpose, use, image size, and resolution (hereinafter referred to as screen attributes) are classified into one or more screen groups, and the user is prompted to perform the necessary initial settings for each screen group. The number of screen groups is not particularly limited, and the setting can be changed as appropriate depending on the number of items that need to be set via the initial setting wizard. Furthermore, the order in which wizard screens belonging to the same screen group are displayed to the user may be arbitrary, but if there is a chronological relationship between the device settings accepted via the wizard screens, it is preferable that they be displayed in a predetermined order as the initial setting wizard progresses.

[0034] The table shown in FIG. 3 includes IDs, wizard screens, and screen information. The ID is an identifier for uniquely identifying the wizard screen. The wizard screen represents the assistance provided by the wizard screen and the device settings for which input is accepted on the wizard screen. The screen information is screen information that constitutes the wizard screen. FIG. 3 is an example of an initial setup wizard that is composed of a total of 13 wizard screens identified by IDs "0" to "5".

[0035] The initial setup wizard illustrated in FIG. 3 includes a first screen group to a third screen group, each consisting of wizard screens with common screen attributes. The first screen group, which belongs to ID "1," is a group of wizard screens with screen attributes that accept essential device settings to comply with various legal regulations. Examples of wizard screens that belong to the first screen group include "Date and Time Settings" with ID "1-1," "User Agreement for Information Handling" with ID "1-2," "Administrator Password Settings" with ID "1-3," and "User Password Settings" with ID "1-4."

[0036] The second screen group, which has ID "2," is a group of wizard screens with screen attributes that accept device settings recommended to comply with various laws and regulations. Examples of wizard screens that belong to the second screen group include "Remote Firmware Update Settings" with ID "2-1," "Remote Firmware Update Agreement" with ID "2-2," and "Security Settings" with ID "2-3," and may also include wizard screens related to maintaining the device status.

[0037] The third screen group belonging to ID "3" is a group of wizard screens having screen attributes for accepting one or more device settings required for the user to use the image forming device 100 (communication device 103). Examples of wizard screens belonging to the third screen group include "Network Settings" with ID "3-1" and "Activation of Functions to be Used" with ID "3-2".

[0038] Furthermore, in addition to these first to third screen groups, the initial setup wizard according to the present disclosure is configured with "Language Settings" with ID "0-0", "Start Confirmation" with ID "0-1", "User Authentication Settings" with ID "4", and "End Confirmation" with ID "5". In addition to the first to third screen groups, a fourth screen group and subsequent screen groups may be provided that can accept more detailed device settings than those accepted on the wizard screens displayed in these screen groups.

[0039] The control unit 11, which has read out the start-up control program 191 (wizard setting program 1911), provides the user with an initial setting wizard via the wizard screen (screen group) exemplified in FIG.

[0040] Returning to FIG. 2 again, image processing unit 21 includes image forming unit 211 and image input unit 213. Image forming unit 211 feeds paper from paper feed unit 25, forms an image on the paper based on image data, and then discharges the paper to paper discharge unit 27. Image forming unit 211 can be configured, for example, by a laser printer that employs an electrophotographic method. In this case, image forming unit 211 forms an image using toner supplied from toner cartridges (not shown) that correspond to toner colors (for example, cyan, magenta, yellow, and black).

[0041] The image input unit 213 generates image data by scanning an original. The image input unit 213 may be configured as a scanner device equipped with an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CIS (Contact Image Sensor), as well as an automatic document feeder (ADF) and a flatbed for placing and reading an original. The image input unit 213 is not particularly limited in configuration as long as it is capable of reading a reflected light image from an original image using an image sensor. The image input unit 213 may also be configured as an interface capable of acquiring image data stored in a storage medium such as a USB memory or image data transmitted from a terminal device (not shown). The image processing unit 21 may be configured to perform, for example, shading correction or density correction on the image data input from the image input unit 213 to generate image data for image transmission.

[0042] Note that the functions described above may be provided redundantly when each of the control device 101, communication device 103, image processing device 105, and printing device 107 realizes the function individually. For example, the communication device 103, image processing device 105, and printing device 107 may each have a control unit 11 and a memory unit 19. Furthermore, each device may share and use the control unit 11, memory unit 19, etc.

[0043] [1.2 Processing flow] Image forming apparatus 100 according to the present disclosure is configured to display a wizard screen on display unit 13 (operation input unit 15) when powered on in a factory default state, and to prevent other operations from being performed until the initial setup wizard is completed. This is to prevent the use of functions of image forming apparatus 100 until mandatory settings required by law are completed.

[0044] An example of processing related to such an initial setting wizard will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 4. The flowchart in Fig. 4 illustrates processing executed by the control unit 11 by reading out the start-up control program 191 (wizard setting program 1911), the control program 192, the display control program 193, etc.

[0045] After the image forming apparatus 100 is started up, the control unit 11 reads the start-up control program 191 (wizard setting program 1911) to start the initial setting wizard (step S100).

[0046] The control unit 11 accepts the language setting by the user via the "Language Setting" wizard screen with ID "0-0" (step S110). This is to accept the selection of a language that the user who runs the initial setting wizard can understand.

[0047] The control unit 11 starts displaying the wizard screen belonging to the first screen group (first screen group) based on the accepted language (step S120).

[0048] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the display of the screens belonging to the first screen group has ended (step S130). If it is determined that the display of the screens belonging to the first screen group has not ended, the control unit 11 displays a wizard screen (step S130; No → step S140). In this case, the control unit 11 can set the wizard screen to be displayed by specifying the ID or image information of the wizard screen.

[0049] Then, the control unit 11 receives the device settings required by the user to comply with various laws and regulations (step S150). The control unit 11 stores the received device settings in the storage unit 19.

[0050] The control unit 11 determines whether the user has selected either the [Back] button or the [Next] button (step S160). If it is determined that the [Back] button has been selected, the control unit 11 returns the process to step S140 (step S160; [Back] → step S140).

[0051] On the other hand, if it is determined that the [Next] button has been selected by the user, the control unit 11 returns the process to step S130 (step S160; [Next] → step S130).

[0052] When the process returns to step S130, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the display of the screens belonging to the first screen group has ended. If it is determined that the display of the screens belonging to the first screen group has not ended, the control unit 11 displays the wizard screen for the next ID (step S140), and repeats the process of steps S150 to S160.

[0053] In step S130, if it is determined that the display of the screens belonging to the first screen group has ended, the control unit 11 starts displaying the wizard screens belonging to the second screen group (second screen group) (step S130; Yes→step S170).

[0054] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the display of the screens belonging to the second screen group has ended (step S180). If it is determined that the display of the screens belonging to the second screen group has not ended, the control unit 11 displays a wizard screen (step S180; No → step S190). In this case, the control unit 11 can set the wizard screen to be displayed by specifying the ID or image information of the wizard screen.

[0055] Then, the control unit 11 receives device settings recommended by the user to comply with various laws and regulations (step S200). The control unit 11 stores the received device settings in the storage unit 19.

[0056] The control unit 11 determines whether the user has selected either the [Back] button or the [Next] button (step S210). If it is determined that the [Back] button has been selected, the control unit 11 returns the process to step S190 (step S210; [Back] → step S190).

[0057] On the other hand, if it is determined that the [Next] button has been selected by the user, the control unit 11 returns the process to step S180 (step S210; [Next]→step S180).

[0058] When the process returns to step S180, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the display of the screens belonging to the second screen group has ended. If it is determined that the display of the screens belonging to the second screen group has not ended, the control unit 11 displays the wizard screen for the next ID (step S190), and repeats the process of steps S200 to S210.

[0059] In step S180, if it is determined that the display of the screens belonging to the second screen group has ended, the control unit 11 starts displaying the wizard screens belonging to the third screen group (third screen group) (step S180; Yes→step S220).

[0060] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the display of the screens belonging to the third screen group has ended (step S230). If it is determined that the display of the screens belonging to the third screen group has not ended, the control unit 11 displays a wizard screen (step S230; No → step S240). In this case, the control unit 11 can set the wizard screen to be displayed by specifying the ID or image information of the wizard screen.

[0061] Then, the control unit 11 receives one or more device settings necessary for the user to use the image forming device 100 (communication device 103) (step S250). The control unit 11 stores the received device settings in the storage unit 19.

[0062] The control unit 11 determines whether the user has selected either the [Back] button or the [Next] button (step S260). If it is determined that the [Back] button has been selected, the control unit 11 returns the process to step S240 (step S260; [Back] → step S240).

[0063] On the other hand, if it is determined that the [Next] button has been selected by the user, the control unit 11 returns the process to step S230 (step S260; [Next]→step S230).

[0064] When the process returns to step S230, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the display of the screens belonging to the third screen group has ended. If it is determined that the display of the screens belonging to the third screen group has not ended, the control unit 11 displays the wizard screen for the next ID (step S240), and repeats the process of steps S250 to S260.

[0065] If it is determined in step S230 that the display of the screens belonging to the third screen group has ended, the control unit 11 accepts other device settings such as user authentication settings via the "User Authentication Settings" wizard screen with ID "4" (step S230; Yes → step S270). Note that if a screen group other than the first to third screen groups (e.g., a fourth screen group, a fifth screen group, ... an n-th screen group) is provided, processing may be performed in accordance with the processing of steps S130 to S260. Also, after the first screen group is displayed, it is possible to display either the second screen group or the third screen group.

[0066] Next, the control unit 11 confirms the completion via the "Confirm Completion" wizard screen with ID "5" and ends the initial setup wizard (step S280 → step S290). After the initial setup wizard ends, use of the device begins. Note that, although FIG. 4 illustrates a configuration in which both the second and third screen groups are displayed after the first screen group is displayed, it is also possible to display either the second or third screen group after the first screen group is displayed.

[0067] [1.3 Example of operation] Next, an example of operation according to the first embodiment will be described. In the following description, the same components will be assigned the same reference numerals. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a "Language Setting" wizard screen (screen information "Image_00") with ID "0-0." The "Language Setting" wizard screen W10 with ID "0-0" is a wizard screen displayed by the control unit 11 in step S110 of FIG. 4. The wizard screen W10 includes a language selection area R10 and a Next button B10. The language selection area R10 is a selection area that accepts a language selection by the user. When the desired language is selected by the user, the selected language is displayed identifiably (for example, highlighted), allowing the user to understand the selected language. The Next button B10 is a selection button that accepts an instruction to confirm the language selection by the user. When the user selects the Next button B10, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the wizard screen shown in the next figure.

[0068] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the "Start Confirmation" wizard screen (screen information "Image_01") with ID "0-1." The "Start Confirmation" wizard screen W12 with ID "0-1" is a wizard screen displayed by the control unit 11 in step S120 of FIG. 4. The wizard screen W12 includes a message indicating that an initial setup wizard will start via the wizard screen, a Next button B10, and a Back button B12. After confirming that the initial setup wizard will start, the user selects either the Next button B10 or the Back button B12.

[0069] The Next button B10 is a selection button that accepts a user instruction to confirm the start of the initial setup wizard. When the user selects the Next button B10, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the wizard screen shown in the next figure. The Back button B12 is a selection button that accepts a user instruction to cancel the initial setup wizard. When the user selects the Back button B12, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the wizard screen shown in the previous figure.

[0070] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the "Date and Time Setting" wizard screen (screen information "Image_02") with ID "1-1." The "Date and Time Setting" wizard screen W14 with ID "1-1" is a wizard screen belonging to the first screen group displayed by the control unit 11 in step S140 of FIG. 4. The wizard screen W14 includes a date and time setting area R12, a Next button B10, and a Back button B12. The date and time setting area R12 is a setting area that accepts date and time settings made by the user.

[0071] The Next button B10 is a selection button that accepts an instruction from the user to confirm the date and time settings. When the user selects the Next button B10, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the wizard screen shown in the next figure. The Back button B12 is a selection button that accepts an instruction from the user to cancel the date and time settings. When the user selects the Back button B12, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the wizard screen shown in the previous figure.

[0072] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the "User's consent to information handling" wizard screen (screen information "Image_03") with ID "1-2." The "User's consent to information handling" wizard screen W16 with ID "1-2" is a wizard screen belonging to the first screen group displayed by the control unit 11 in step S140 of FIG. 4. The wizard screen W16 includes a consent display area R14, a consent check box C10, a Next button B10, and a Back button B12. The consent display area R14 is a display area that displays the content of the consent given by the user regarding the handling of information.

[0073] The consent check box C10 is a check box that accepts a confirmation instruction from a user who consents to the handling of the information displayed in the consent display area R14. When the consent check box C10 is checked, the Next button B10 becomes active and can be selected.

[0074] The Next button B10 is a selection button that accepts a user's instruction to confirm the consent check box C10. When the user selects the Next button B10, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the wizard screen shown in the next figure. The Back button B12 is a selection button that accepts a user's instruction to cancel the handling of information. When the user selects the Back button B12, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the wizard screen shown in the previous figure.

[0075] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the "Administrator Password Setting" wizard screen (screen information "Image_04") with ID "1-3". The "Administrator Password Setting" wizard screen W18 with ID "1-3" is a wizard screen belonging to the first screen group displayed by the control unit 11 in step S140 of FIG. 4. The wizard screen W18 includes an administrator password setting area R16, a Next button B10, and a Back button B12. The administrator password setting area R16 is a setting area that accepts the setting of an administrator password by the user.

[0076] When the user sets a desired password in the administrator password setting area R16, the Next button B10 becomes active and can be selected.

[0077] The Next button B10 is a selection button that accepts an instruction from the user to confirm the administrator password setting. When the user selects the Next button B10, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the wizard screen shown in the next figure. The Back button B12 is a selection button that accepts an instruction from the user to cancel the administrator password setting. When the user selects the Back button B12, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the wizard screen shown in the previous figure.

[0078] Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the "User" password setting" wizard screen (screen information "Image_05") for ID "1-4". The "User" password setting" wizard screen W20 for ID "1-4" is a wizard screen belonging to the first screen group displayed by the control unit 11 in step S140 of Figure 4. The wizard screen W20 includes a user password setting area R18, a Next button B10, and a Back button B12. The user password setting area R18 is a setting area that accepts the setting of a user password by the user.

[0079] When the user sets a desired password in the user password setting area R18, the Next button B10 becomes active and can be selected.

[0080] The Next button B10 is a selection button that accepts an instruction from the user to confirm the user password setting. When the user selects the Next button B10, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the wizard screen shown in the next figure. The Back button B12 is a selection button that accepts an instruction from the user to cancel the user password setting. When the user selects the Back button B12, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the wizard screen shown in the previous figure.

[0081] Regarding the wizard screen W14 in Fig. 7 and the wizard screen W16 in Fig. 8, it is preferable to display the "Date and Time Settings" wizard screen W14 before the "User Agreement on Information Handling" wizard screen W16 in order to confirm the date and time when consent to the handling of information was obtained. Also, in order to accommodate restrictions on the use of default passwords and previously used passwords, it is preferable to treat wizard screens that accept authentication information, such as the "Administrator Password Settings" wizard screen W18 in Fig. 9 and the "User Password Settings" wizard screen W20 in Fig. 10, as wizard screens belonging to the first screen group.

[0082] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the “Remote Firmware Update Settings” wizard screen (screen information “Image_06”) with ID “2-1.” The “Remote Firmware Update Settings” wizard screen W22 with ID “2-1” is a wizard screen belonging to the second screen group displayed by the control unit 11 in step S190 of FIG. 4. The wizard screen W22 includes a remote firmware setting area R20, a Next button B10, and a Back button B12. The remote firmware setting area R20 is a setting area that accepts remote firmware settings by the user. When the user selects a desired remote firmware setting, the selected remote firmware setting is displayed in an identifiable manner (e.g., highlighted), allowing the user to understand the selected remote firmware setting. Note that if the remote firmware update settings have been completed by, for example, a dealer before delivery to the user, the “Remote Firmware Update Settings” screen may be controlled so that it is not included in the setting screen of the initial setup wizard at the time of delivery to the user.

[0083] The Next button B10 is a selection button that accepts an instruction to confirm the remote firmware setting selected by the user. When the user selects the Next button B10, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the wizard screen shown in the next figure. The Back button B12 is a selection button that accepts an instruction to cancel the remote firmware setting by the user. When the user selects the Back button B12, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the wizard screen shown in the previous figure.

[0084] Although the "Agreement to Remote Firmware Update" wizard screen (screen information "Image_07") with ID "2-2" is not shown in the figure, this wizard screen can be configured to display the agreement details regarding the remote firmware update in the agreement display area R14, similar to the "User Agreement for Information Handling" wizard screen (screen information "Image_03") with ID "1-2" illustrated in Figure 8.

[0085] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the "Security Settings" wizard screen (screen information "Image_08") with ID "2-3." The "Security Settings" wizard screen W24 with ID "2-3" is a wizard screen belonging to the second screen group displayed by the control unit 11 in step S190 of FIG. 4. The wizard screen W24 includes a security settings area R22, a Next button B10, and a Back button B12. The security settings area R22 is a setting area that accepts security settings by the user. When the user selects the desired security settings, the selected security settings are displayed in an identifiable manner (for example, highlighted), allowing the user to understand the selected security settings.

[0086] The Next button B10 is a selection button that accepts an instruction to confirm the security settings selected by the user. When the user selects the Next button B10, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the wizard screen shown in the next figure. The Back button B12 is a selection button that accepts an instruction to cancel the security settings by the user. When the user selects the Back button B12, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the wizard screen shown in the previous figure.

[0087] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the "Network Settings" wizard screen (screen information "Image_09") with ID "3-1." The "Network Settings" wizard screen W26 with ID "3-1" is a wizard screen belonging to the third screen group displayed by the control unit 11 in step S240 of FIG. 4. The wizard screen W26 includes a network settings area R24, a Next button B10, and a Back button B12. The network settings area R24 is a setting area that accepts network settings by the user. When the user selects and sets the desired network settings, the selected and set network settings are displayed in an identifiable manner (for example, highlighted), allowing the user to understand the selected and set network settings.

[0088] The Next button B10 is a selection button that accepts an instruction to confirm the network settings selected and set by the user. When the user selects the Next button B10, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the wizard screen shown in the next figure. The Back button B12 is a selection button that accepts an instruction to cancel the network settings by the user. When the user selects the Back button B12, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the wizard screen shown in the previous figure.

[0089] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the "Activate Functions to Be Used" wizard screen (screen information "Image_10") with ID "3-2." The "Activate Functions to Be Used" wizard screen W28 with ID "3-2" is a wizard screen belonging to the third screen group that the control unit 11 displays in step S240 of FIG. 4. The wizard screen W28 includes an activation setting area R26, a Next button B10, and a Back button B12. The activation setting area R26 is a setting area that accepts activation settings of functions to be used by the user. When a desired function to be used is selected and set by the user, the selected and set function to be used is displayed in an identifiable manner (for example, highlighted), allowing the user to understand the selected and set function to be used.

[0090] The Next button B10 is a selection button that accepts a confirmation instruction to activate the function to be used that has been selected and set by the user. When the user selects the Next button B10, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the wizard screen shown in the next figure. The Back button B12 is a selection button that accepts a cancellation instruction from the user regarding the activation of the function to be used. When the user selects the Back button B12, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the wizard screen shown in the previous figure.

[0091] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the "User Authentication Settings" wizard screen (screen information "Image_11") with ID "4." The "User Authentication Settings" wizard screen W30 with ID "4" is a wizard screen belonging to other device settings that the control unit 11 displays in step S270 of FIG. 4. The wizard screen W30 includes a user authentication settings area R28, a Next button B10, and a Back button B12. The user authentication settings area R28 is a setting area for accepting user authentication settings. When the user selects the desired user authentication settings, the selected user authentication settings are displayed in an identifiable manner (for example, highlighted), allowing the user to understand the selected user authentication settings.

[0092] The Next button B10 is a selection button that accepts an instruction to confirm the user authentication settings selected by the user. When the user selects the Next button B10, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the wizard screen shown in the next figure. The Back button B12 is a selection button that accepts an instruction to cancel the user authentication settings by the user. When the user selects the Back button B12, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the wizard screen shown in the previous figure.

[0093] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the "Confirm Finish" wizard screen with ID "5" (screen information "Image_12"). The "Confirm Finish" wizard screen W32 with ID "5" is a wizard screen related to the confirmation of the finish that the control unit 11 displays in step S280 of FIG. 4. The wizard screen W32 includes a message to end the initial setup wizard, a Finish button B14, and a Back button B12. After confirming that the initial setup wizard should be ended, the user selects either the Finish button B14 or the Back button B12.

[0094] The Finish button B14 is a selection button that accepts a user's instruction to confirm the termination of the initial setup wizard. When the user selects the Finish button B14, the control unit 11 terminates the initial setup wizard. The Back button B12 is a selection button that accepts a user's instruction to cancel the termination of the initial setup wizard. When the user selects the Back button B12, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the wizard screen shown in the previous figure.

[0095] As described above, according to the first embodiment, it is possible to display a group of wizard screens having the same screen attributes as an initial setup wizard, and the group of screens includes at least a first group of screens having screen attributes for accepting required device settings to comply with various legal regulations, a second group of screens having screen attributes for accepting recommended device settings to comply with various legal regulations, and a third group of screens having screen attributes for accepting one or more device settings required for the user to use the communication device. This allows the user to easily configure the device via the initial setup wizard and easily respond to measures required to comply with legal regulations.

[0096] [2 Second Embodiment] The second embodiment is an embodiment in which the configuration of the screen group (wizard screen) to be applied to the initial setting wizard is changed depending on the destination of the image forming apparatus 100 in the first embodiment.

[0097] The functional configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 (communication apparatus 103) according to the second embodiment can be the same as the functional configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment, and therefore description thereof will be omitted here.

[0098] [2.1 Processing flow] The processing flow according to the second embodiment is obtained by adding the processing described in Fig. 17 before step S100 of the processing flow according to the first embodiment described in Fig. 4. Therefore, the description of the parts described in Fig. 4 will be omitted. Note that, here, three regions will be described as destinations of image forming apparatus 100, namely, region A (for example, Europe), region B (for example, North America), and region C (Asia including Japan), depending on applicable laws and regulations, but the destinations are not limited to these.

[0099] 17, after starting up image forming apparatus 100, control unit 11 determines whether the destination of image forming apparatus 100 is area A (step S500). If it is determined that the destination of image forming apparatus 100 is area A, control unit 11 determines that the initial setting wizard is an initial setting wizard of type 1 (step S500; Yes→step S510).

[0100] On the other hand, if it is determined that the destination of image forming apparatus 100 is not area A, control unit 11 determines whether the destination of image forming apparatus 100 is area B or not (step S500; No→step S520). If it is determined that the destination of image forming apparatus 100 is area B, control unit 11 determines that the initial setup wizard is a type 2 initial setup wizard (step S520; Yes→step S530).

[0101] On the other hand, if it is determined that the destination of image forming apparatus 100 is not region B, control unit 11 determines that the initial setting wizard is a type 3 initial setting wizard (step S520; No->step S540).

[0102] Fig. 18 is a table explaining the type types of the initial setup wizard determined in Fig. 17. Note that the screen groups (wizard screens) classified by type type explained in the table of Fig. 18 are merely examples, and the type types of the initial setup wizard according to the second embodiment are not limited to the examples shown in Fig. 18.

[0103] The initial setting wizard of Type 1 illustrated in FIG. 18, that is, the initial setting wizard for image forming apparatus 100 whose destination is region A, includes all of the screen groups (wizard screens) described in the first embodiment.

[0104] In addition, the initial setting wizard for the image forming device 100 whose destination is region B includes a "Language Setting" wizard screen with ID "0-0", a "Start Confirmation" wizard screen with ID "0-1", a "User Password Setting" wizard screen with ID "1-4", and a "Remote Firmware Update Setting" wizard screen with ID "2-1".

[0105] Furthermore, the initial setting wizard for the image forming apparatus 100 whose destination is region C includes a "Set 'Administrator' Password" wizard screen for ID "1-3".

[0106] As described above, according to the second embodiment, it is possible to change the configuration of the screen group (wizard screen) included in the initial setting wizard depending on the destination of the image forming device 100, and therefore, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, more flexible device operation is possible.

[0107] The present disclosure 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 gist of the present disclosure are also included in the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0108] Although the above-described embodiments are described separately for convenience of explanation, they may be combined to the extent technically feasible. For example, in the above-described first embodiment, the initial setting wizard includes at least a first screen group having screen attributes for accepting mandatory device settings for complying with various laws and regulations, a second screen group having screen attributes for accepting recommended device settings for complying with various laws and regulations, and a third screen group having screen attributes for accepting one or more device settings required for the user to use the communication device. However, the initial setting wizard may include only the first screen group having screen attributes for accepting mandatory device settings for complying with various laws and regulations, or may include the first screen group having screen attributes for accepting mandatory device settings for complying with various laws and regulations and a second screen group having screen attributes for accepting recommended device settings for complying with various laws and regulations, or may include the first screen group having screen attributes for accepting mandatory device settings for complying with various laws and regulations and a third screen group having screen attributes for accepting one or more device settings required for the user to use the communication device.

[0109] 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.

[0110] Here, the computer-readable non-transitory recording medium on which the program is recorded in the information processing device 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 (registered trademark) Disc, etc.)), magnetic recording media (e.g., magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.). In this case, the program recorded on the recording medium is read by the computer of the information processing device and executed by the computer, thereby realizing not only the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments, but also the functions of the present disclosure, which are realized by processing in cooperation with an operating system or other application programs, etc., based on instructions from the program.

[0111] Furthermore, when distributing the program on the market, the program can be stored in 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 also included in the present disclosure.

[0112] Additionally, each functional block or feature of the device used in the above-described embodiments may be implemented or performed by an electrical circuit, such as an integrated circuit or multiple integrated circuits. The electrical circuit designed to realize the functions described herein may include a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device, discrete gates or Tronistor logic, discrete hardware components, or a combination thereof. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, a conventional processor, a controller, a microcontroller, or a state machine. The electrical circuit may be composed of digital circuits or analog circuits. Furthermore, as advances in semiconductor technology emerge, one or more aspects of the present disclosure may utilize new integrated circuits based on that technology. [Explanation of symbols]

[0113] 11 Control section 13 Display section 15 Operation input section 17 Communications Department 19 Memory section 191 Startup Control Program 192 Control Program 193 Display Control Program 194 Job Control Program 195 Screen information storage area 21 Image processing section 211 Image forming unit 213 Image Input Unit 100 Image forming device 101 Control device 103 Communication equipment 105 Image processing device 107 Printing device

Claims

1. A screen display method for a communication device, comprising: A group of screens having the same screen attributes is displayed as an initial setting wizard at the time of first startup; The screen group includes: A screen display method for a communication device, characterized by including at least a first screen group having screen attributes for accepting required device settings to comply with various legal regulations, a second screen group having screen attributes for accepting recommended device settings to comply with various legal regulations, and a third screen group having screen attributes for accepting one or more device settings required for a user to use the communication device.

2. The screens belonging to the first screen group are 2. The screen display method for a communication device according to claim 1, wherein the screens are displayed in a predetermined display order as the initial setting wizard progresses.

3. The screens belonging to the first screen group are 3. The screen display method for a communication device according to claim 2, wherein a screen for setting a date and time, a screen for accepting user consent, and a screen for accepting input of authentication information are displayed in this order.

4. The second screen group includes:

2. The screen display method for a communication device according to claim 1, further comprising at least a screen relating to maintaining the device state of said communication device.

5. The third screen group includes:

2. The screen display method for a communication device according to claim 1, wherein at least a screen relating to network settings of the communication device is included.

6. 6. The screen display method for a communication device according to claim 5, further comprising the step of restricting input of the device settings for the third screen group until input of the device settings for the first screen group is accepted.

7. 2. The screen display method for a communication device according to claim 1, wherein after displaying the first screen group, either or both of the second screen group and the third screen group are displayed.

8. 2. The screen display method for a communication device according to claim 1, further comprising a fourth screen group for accepting device settings other than the device settings accepted in the first screen group, the second screen group, and the third screen group.

9. 2. The screen display method for a communication device according to claim 1, wherein the configuration of the screen group included in the initial setting wizard or the screen belonging to the screen group is changed depending on the destination of the communication device.

10. a display unit that displays a group of screens having the same screen attributes as an initial setting wizard at the time of first startup; a control unit that controls display of the initial setup wizard on the display unit, The screen group includes: A communication device characterized by including at least a first screen group having screen attributes for accepting required device settings to comply with various legal regulations, a second screen group having screen attributes for accepting recommended device settings to comply with various legal regulations, and a third screen group having screen attributes for accepting one or more device settings required for a user to use the communication device.

Images