Image processing device and display control method

Abstract

To provide an image processing device or the like that can improve user operability in relation to the use of a chain dial function.SOLUTION: An image processing device includes a display unit and a control unit, and the display unit displays a destination input screen for accepting input of a destination, and a selection button for accepting settings for a chain dial function that links destination numbers corresponding to the destinations inputted via the destination input screen and automatically makes calls to the linked destination numbers, and the control unit identifiably displays the destinations to which the chain dial function has been applied by selecting the selection button.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Some image processing devices have, as one of their fax transmission functions, a function that connects multiple destination numbers, such as a fax number for a specific destination called up from an address book or the like, or a fax number directly entered via an input device such as a touch panel (hereinafter, in this disclosure, a fax number corresponding to a specific destination may be referred to as a destination number), with a pause [-] and automatically makes a call to the connected destination number (hereinafter, this function will be referred to as a chain dial function).

[0003] Regarding user operability in a chain dial function, for example, Patent Document 1 describes a communication terminal device capable of displaying the name of a communication partner. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-42030 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The present disclosure aims to provide an image processing device and the like that can improve user operability regarding the use of a chain dial function. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problem, the image processing device according to the present disclosure has a display unit and a control unit, wherein the display unit displays a destination input screen for accepting input of a destination, and a selection button for accepting settings for a chain dial function that concatenates destination numbers corresponding to the destinations inputted via the destination input screen and automatically makes a call to the concatenated destination numbers, and the control unit identifiably displays the destinations to which the chain dial function has been applied by selecting the selection button.

[0007] In addition, the display control method according to the present disclosure is characterized in that it displays a destination input screen that accepts input of a destination, and a selection button that accepts settings for a chain dial function that connects a destination number corresponding to the destination whose input has been accepted via the destination input screen and automatically makes a call to the connected destination number, and by selecting the selection button, it displays the destination to which the chain dial function has been applied in an identifiable manner. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an image processing device and the like that can improve the operability for the user in relation to the use of the chain dial function. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating the overall configuration of an image processing apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration of an image processing apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a destination management table. [Figure 4] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow 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. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the third embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiments are examples 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] Some image processing devices that implement a chain dial function display to the user that the chain dial function is enabled (is being used) when the chain dial function is being used.

[0012] However, in conventional image processing devices, when setting a destination that will be the source of a link (hereinafter referred to as a source destination) or a destination that will be linked to the source of a link (hereinafter referred to as a destination destination), even if a specific destination is set, only the destination number of the linked destination is displayed in the destination field, making it difficult for the user to easily determine whether or not the destination to which the chain dial function is to be applied has been set correctly.

[0013] In particular, in an image processing device that has an operation screen with a small display area (small size of the display area), for example, of about 4 inches, compared to an operation screen with a display area of ​​about 10 inches, there is a limit to the amount of information that can be displayed at one time, so the user has no choice but to make the above judgment based on limited information.

[0014] In the present disclosure, the following embodiments realize an image processing device etc. that can improve user operability even when the display area of ​​the operation screen is small by controlling the display of selection buttons etc. that accept settings related to the destination (name), destination number, and chain dial function when using the chain dial function, and notifying the user of the device status of the image processing device and acceptable operations.

[0015] [1 First Embodiment] [1.1 Functional Configuration] Fig. 1 is a diagram illustrating the overall configuration of a multifunction peripheral 100 as an image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction peripheral 100 as an image processing apparatus.

[0016] Multifunction peripheral 100 is an image processing device that can perform various types of jobs, such as print jobs, copy jobs, scan jobs, fax jobs, and image transmission jobs, in a single housing. Note that in this disclosure, an example of a multifunction peripheral will be described as one form of image processing device, but the image processing device is not limited in configuration as long as it is configured to be able to send faxes to destinations linked based on a chain dial function.

[0017] The multifunction peripheral 100 includes 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.

[0018] The control unit 11 performs overall control of the entire multifunction peripheral 100. The control unit 11 can be configured with one or more processing devices (for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a Soc (System on Chip), etc.). The control unit 11 realizes its functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 19.

[0019] The display unit 13 displays various information to the user. The display unit 13 can be configured, for example, with an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, or the like. The display unit 13 displays operation screens (e.g., a home screen (not shown), a setting screen for executing each job, a destination list screen, a transmission history screen, etc.) according to the state of the multifunction peripheral 100. The display unit 13 according to the present disclosure will be described as having a display area of, for example, about 4 inches, which is relatively small compared to those having a display area of ​​about 10 inches.

[0020] The operation input unit 15 accepts input of information from the user, etc. The operation input unit 15 can be configured with various input devices such as operation keys such as hard keys and software keys, buttons, etc. The operation input unit 15 can also be configured as a touch panel that allows information to be 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. The input method for the touch panel can be, for example, a common method such as a resistive film method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, or a capacitive method.

[0021] The communication unit 17 includes a wired / wireless interface or both for communicating with other external 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. The communication unit 17 may also include an interface related to (short-range) 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).

[0022] The storage unit 19 is one or more storage devices that store various programs and various data required for the operation of the multifunction peripheral 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).

[0023] In the first embodiment, the storage unit 19 stores a control program 191, a display control program 192, and a job control program 193, and reserves a destination storage area 194 and a transmission history storage area 195.

[0024] The control program 191 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 when performing overall control of the multifunction device 100. The control unit 11 that reads the control program 191 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.

[0025] The display control program 192 is a program that the control unit 11 reads out 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. In addition, when the chain dial function is used, the control unit 11 that reads out the display control program 192 controls the display of destinations set as link source destinations or link destination destinations, destination numbers corresponding to the destinations, selection buttons for accepting settings related to the chain dial function, and the like.

[0026] The job control program 193 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 when executing various types of jobs such as a fax job, a print job, a copy job, a scan job, an image transmission job, etc. After reading the job control program 193, the control unit 11 shifts (sets) the device mode of the multifunction peripheral 100 to a job mode (fax mode, print mode, copy mode, image transmission mode, etc.) for executing each job, and executes the job.

[0027] The job control program 193 includes a chain dial control program 1931. The chain dial control program 1931 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 when the device mode of the multifunction peripheral 100 is in fax mode and the user selects a destination for fax transmission. The control unit 11 that reads the chain dial control program 1931 comprehensively controls the setting of the destination selected by the user as a link source destination, the acceptance of the selection of a link destination destination to be linked to the link source, the linking of the destination number of the link source destination and the destination number of the link destination destination, and the calling of the linked destination number.

[0028] The destination storage area 194 is a storage area for storing a destination management table 1941. The destination management table 1941 can also function as an address book (a local address book managed within the multifunction peripheral 100) that associates and manages the names of destinations (destination (first name)) of data related to fax transmissions with destination numbers such as fax numbers corresponding to the destinations. Note that the destination (first name) does not have to be an (official) name representing a person's name, department name, organization name, etc., as long as it is possible to specify and identify the destination. It may also be an abbreviation, a common name such as a nickname, or a character string consisting of specific letters, numbers, symbols, etc. In the following explanation, a form in which the management items of the destination management table 1941 are managed in a table format will be described, but the management items of the destination management table 1941 may also be managed in a database format.

[0029] An example of the data configuration of destination management table 1941 will now be described with reference to Fig. 3. Note that Fig. 3 shows an example in which management items related to fax transmission are extracted, but destination management table 1941 may also include destinations related to other data transmission means and methods, such as telephone numbers, email addresses, file paths indicating storage destinations of data (files), and URLs (Uniform Resource Locators), as destination numbers.

[0030] The destination management table 1941 illustrated in FIG. 3 includes, as management items, a destination ID, a destination (name), a destination number, a registration method, an attribute, and the number of destinations.

[0031] The destination ID is an identifier for uniquely identifying a destination in the destination management table 1941. The destination (name) indicates the name of the destination. The destination number is the destination number (fax number) corresponding to the destination. The registration method indicates the method for registering the destination (destination number) in the destination management table 1941. The attribute is an attribute value indicating whether the destination identified by the destination ID is registered as a group having multiple destinations. The number of destinations indicates the number of destinations when the attribute of the destination identified by the destination ID is "group."

[0032] For example, the destination identified by the destination ID "0099" is an example of a destination (name) "Service," a destination number "184," a registration method "Send History," an attribute "-," and a destination count "1." Similarly, the destination identified by the destination ID "0097" is an example of a destination (name) "Branch," a destination number "0123456789," a registration method "Direct Input," an attribute "Group," and a destination count "6." In the present disclosure, when a destination with the attribute "Group" is selected by the user as a link source destination, the control unit 11 performs control to exclude the chain dialing function from application. After reading the chain dialing control program 1931, the control unit 11 can determine whether the chain dialing function is applicable to the destination by referring to the destination management table 1941 and checking the attribute values ​​of the destination selected by the user as a link source destination.

[0033] 2, the transmission history storage area 195 is a storage area for storing the history of data transmission. The destinations stored as the transmission history can be selected as destinations to be linked when using the chain dial function.

[0034] 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).

[0035] The image input unit 213 generates image data by scanning a document. The image input unit 213 can be configured as a scanner device having, for example, an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CIS (Contact Image Sensor), an automatic document feeder (ADF), a flatbed for placing and reading a document, and the like. The image input unit 213 is not particularly limited in configuration as long as it is capable of generating image data by reading a reflected light image from a document image with an image sensor. The image input unit 213 can 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 an external 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 data transmission.

[0036] [1.2 Processing flow] Next, the flow of processing according to the first embodiment will be described. Fig. 4 is a flowchart illustrating the overall processing from receiving a link source destination to deselecting a chain dial button. The processing described in Fig. 4 is executed by the control unit 11 by reading out the control program 191, display control program 192, job control program 193 (chain dial control program 1931), etc. The processing described in Fig. 4 will be described using an address book screen, which will be described later, as an example of a destination input screen for a link source destination.

[0037] First, the control unit 11 accepts a selection of a candidate destination as a link source destination from the user via the address book screen (step S100). Upon accepting the selection of a candidate destination, the control unit 11 determines whether the attribute of the candidate destination is "group" by referring to the destination management table 1941 illustrated in Fig. 3 (step S110). Note that the determination method in step S110 is merely an example, and there are no limitations on the determination method as long as it can determine whether or not the chain dial function can be applied to the candidate destination accepted as a link source destination.

[0038] If the attribute of the candidate destination is "group", the control unit 11 determines that the chain dial function cannot be applied to the candidate destination accepted as the link source destination, and returns the process to step S100 (step S110; Yes→step S100).

[0039] On the other hand, if the attribute of the candidate destination is not "group," the control unit 11 sets the accepted candidate destination as a link source destination and activates (enables) the chain dial button (step S110; No -> step S120). Activating a chain dial button refers to a state in which the chain dial button, which will be described later, transitions from a state in which it cannot be selected by the user to a state in which it can be selected. In this case, the control unit 11 may perform display control to transition the chain dial button from a hidden state to a displayed state, or may perform display control to transition from a darkened state in which it cannot be selected by the user to a displayed state in which it can be selected by the user.

[0040] Then, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the user has selected a chain dial button (step S130). If it determines that the user has selected a chain dial button, the control unit 11 transitions the operation mode of the multifunction device 100 to an operation mode (chain dial mode) in which the chain dial function can be used. At this time, the control unit 11 controls so that the destination set as the link source destination and the chain dial button are displayed in the same display color (the same display color, a display color of the same family (similar colors), etc.). By displaying the link source destination and the chain dial button in the same display color, the user can visually recognize that the destination displayed in the same display color as the chain dial button is a destination to which the chain dial function has been applied.

[0041] After transitioning to the chain dial mode, the control unit 11 performs a link destination destination selection process (step S130; Yes → step S140). The link destination destination selection process related to step S140 will be described with reference to FIG. 5. If it is determined that the chain dial button has not been selected by the user, the control unit 11 ends the process (step S130; No → "End").

[0042] After the link-destination destination selection process in step S140 is completed, the control unit 11 determines whether the user has selected either the [+] button or the [OK] button (step S150). If the control unit 11 determines that the user has selected either the [+] button or the [OK] button, it links the destination number of the link-source destination with the destination number of the link-destination destination, and determines the link-source destination and the link-destination destination as destinations to which the chain dial function is applied (step S150; Yes → step S160). If the control unit 11 determines that the user has not selected either the [+] button or the [OK] button, it returns the process to step S140, assuming that the link-destination destination selection process is continuing (step S150; No → step S140).

[0043] Next, in step S150, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the user has selected the [+] button (step S170). If it is determined that the user has selected the [+] button, the control unit 11 performs a process for displaying the link source and link destination destinations (step S170; Yes → step S180). Specifically, the control unit 11 controls the display of the link source and link destination destinations on the confirmation screen that displays these destinations in a display color that is different from that used when the link source destination or link destination destination is selected. By displaying the destinations displayed on the confirmation screen in a display color that is different from that used when the link source destination or link destination destination is selected, the user can understand that the application of the chain dialing function to the destination has been confirmed.

[0044] Next, the control unit 11 deselects the chain dial button and ends the process (step S190->"end"). After deselecting the chain dial button, if more link destinations are to be linked, the process from step S130 onward can be repeated.

[0045] On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines in step S170 that the user has not selected the [+] button, i.e., if it determines in step S150 that the user has selected the [OK] button, the screen transitions from the address book screen to a basic screen, such as a fax job setting screen or a home screen (not shown), and ends the process (step S170; No → step S200 → “End”).

[0046] Next, the connection destination selection process in step S140 in FIG. 4 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.

[0047] When the process starts, the control unit 11 displays a selection screen for accepting the selection of an input means for inputting (selecting) a link destination address (step S1400).

[0048] Then, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the user has selected direct input of the destination number as an input means for inputting a destination of linking (step S1401).

[0049] If the control unit 11 determines that direct input of the destination number has been selected, it displays a confirmation screen notifying the user that linking of destinations via the address book is not possible (step S1401; Yes→step S1402).

[0050] After displaying the confirmation screen, the control unit 11 displays a direct input screen for accepting input of the destination number of the link destination (step S1403). At this time, the control unit 11 notifies the user that linking to the link destination (destination number) is possible by displaying the destination number of the link source destination with a pause (-) automatically added to the end (step S1404).

[0051] Then, the control unit 11 determines whether or not input of a destination number related to the link-destination destination has been accepted (step S1405). If it is determined that input of the destination number has been accepted, the control unit 11 links the accepted input destination number to the destination number related to the link-source destination, and ends the process. Note that, if it is determined that input of the destination number has not been accepted, the control unit 11 waits until input of the destination number is accepted (step S1405; No).

[0052] In step S1401, if the user does not select direct input of the destination number as the input means for inputting the link destination, the control unit 11 determines that the link destination has been input (selected) via the address book screen. Then, the control unit 11 displays the destination number of the link source destination with a pause (-) added to the end in the destination field (step S1401; No -> step S1406).

[0053] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the selection of a link-destination destination has been accepted (step S1407). If it is determined that the selection of a link-destination destination has been accepted, the control unit 11 links the destination number of the link-source destination to the destination number of the link-source destination. Then, the control unit 11 controls the link-source destination, the destination selected as the link-destination destination, and the chain dial button to be displayed in the same display color, and ends the process (step S1407; Yes → step S1408 → “End”).

[0054] If it is determined in step S1407 that the selection of a link destination address has not been accepted, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the selection of a link destination address by search number has been accepted (step S1407; No->step S1409).

[0055] If it is determined that the selection of a link-destination destination using the search number has been accepted, the control unit 11 displays the destination number of the link-destination destination obtained as the search result linked to the destination number of the link-source destination (step S1409; Yes → step S1410). Then, the control unit 11 controls the display of the link-source destination, the destination selected as the link-destination destination, and the chain dial button in the same display color, and ends the process (step S1408 → "end"). Note that when selecting a link-destination destination using a search number, if the destination number of the destination obtained as the search result is already linked, control is performed to prevent duplication. In this case, the control unit 11 may issue a notification that duplication linking will not be performed.

[0056] In this way, the link source destination, link destination destination, and chain dial button are displayed in the same display color, so that the user can visually understand that the destination displayed in the same display color as the chain dial button is a destination to which the chain dial function has been applied.

[0057] [1.3 Example of operation] Next, an example of operation according to the first embodiment will be described. Fig. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display configuration of a job setting screen W10 for a fax job as a basic screen. The job setting screen W10 can be called up, for example, from a home screen (not shown), and is a setting screen for accepting settings related to a fax job. Such a job setting screen W10 includes a fax number display area R10, an address book button B10, a transmission history button B12, a direct input button B14, and a start button B16.

[0058] The fax number display area R10 is configured as a display area capable of displaying one to two lines of text, and is a destination field that accepts input of a destination or a destination number (fax number) corresponding to the destination from an address book, transmission history, or direct input. Fig. 6 shows an example in which the rectangular fax number display area R10 is provided in the header portion of the screen, but the fax number display area R10 may also be provided in the center or lower body portion of the screen, and there are no particular limitations on the shape, display size, screen layout, etc.

[0059] The address book button B10 is provided on the body portion in the approximate center of the screen and is a button for receiving an instruction to display an address book screen as a destination input screen, which will be described later. When the control unit 11 receives an instruction to select the address book button B10 from the user, the control unit 11 reads out necessary information about destinations, etc. from the destination management table 1941 illustrated in Fig. 3, etc., thereby generating display objects that can be selected by the user, and displays the address book screen including the generated display objects.

[0060] The transmission history button B12 is provided on the body part in the approximate center of the screen and is a button that accepts an instruction to display a transmission history screen as a destination input screen (not shown). When the control unit 11 accepts an instruction to select the transmission history button B12 by the user, the control unit 11 generates a display object that can be selected by the user by reading out necessary information related to destinations, etc. from the transmission history storage area 195 illustrated in Fig. 2, and displays the transmission history screen including the generated display object.

[0061] The direct input button B14 is provided on the body part at approximately the center of the screen and is a button for receiving an instruction to display a direct input screen. When the user selects the direct input button B14, the control unit 11 displays a direct input screen having, as display objects, a numeric keypad and the like required for inputting a destination number.

[0062] The start button B16 is located in the body portion at the bottom of the screen and is a button that accepts a user instruction to execute a fax job. When the user selects the start button B16, the control unit 11 starts a fax transmission job to the destination (destination number) displayed in the fax number display area R10.

[0063] 7(a) shows an example of the display configuration of the address book screen W20 displayed by the control unit 11 when a user selects the address book button B10. The address book screen W20 includes an input area R20 in which a destination can be input (selected) based on the address book, as well as a fax number display area R10, a [+] button B20, a [Search] button B22, an [OK] button B24, and a [Chain Dial] button B30 as a selection button. In the present disclosure, destinations that can be selected as link source destinations are limited to only destinations selected from the address book screen W20, but destinations entered from other input means can also be used as link source destinations.

[0064] The input area R20 displays destinations managed in the address book (destination management table 1941) and accepts input (selection) of the destinations from the user. The input area R20 shown in FIG. 7(a) is an example configured with a display size that can display four destinations at a time, but the number of destinations that can be displayed can be adjusted by enlarging or reducing the display size of the display area required to display one destination. If it is not possible to display all destinations at once, the remaining destinations not displayed in the input area R20 can be displayed by operating the slider bar provided on the right edge of the screen of the input area R20 up or down.

[0065] In addition to the destination, the input area R20 can also display an icon I10 representing the job type using the destination. By checking the icon I10 attached to the destination, the user can easily understand the job type for which the destination was used. It is also possible to display different images as the icon I10 depending on the destination. For example, the icon I10 representing the destinations "Service," "aaa Branch," and "bbb Branch" is an image representing a telephone receiver. On the other hand, the attribute of a destination related to "Branch" is "Group" (see the destination management table 1941 in FIG. 3). In this case, as shown in the example of FIG. 7(a), in addition to the image of a telephone receiver representing the job type, it is also possible to use an image as the icon I10 that intuitively conveys that the destination has the attribute of "Group," which has multiple destinations.

[0066] The [+] button B20 is a button that accepts an instruction from the user to add a destination. When the chain dial function is enabled, the [+] button B20 accepts an instruction to confirm a link destination destination. Note that when the link source destination and link destination destination to which the chain dial function is applied are confirmed by selecting the [+] button B20, the control unit 11 does not transition to another screen, but continues to display the address book screen W20.

[0067] The "Search" button B22 is a button that accepts an instruction to search for a destination by a search number. When the user selects the "Search" button B22, the control unit 11 displays a search screen, which will be described later, and accepts input of the search number.

[0068] The [OK] button B24 is a button that accepts an instruction to confirm the content set and input via the address book screen W20. Also, like the [+] button B20, the [OK] button B24 accepts an instruction to confirm a link destination destination when the chain dial function is enabled. Note that when the link source destination and link destination destination to which the chain dial function is applied are confirmed by selecting the [OK] button B24, the control unit 11 ends the display of the address book screen W20 and transitions to a basic screen such as the job setting screen W10 or a home screen (not shown).

[0069] The [Chain Dial] button B30 is a selection button that accepts settings related to the chain dial function, such as enabling / disabling the chain dial function and issuing a command to confirm the selected destination. The [Chain Dial] button B30 is disabled when no destination is selected. FIG. 7(a) also shows an example of the display configuration of the address book screen W20 when no destination is selected, with the [Chain Dial] button B30 represented by a dotted frame. Even when the chain dial function is disabled, it is preferable to display a chain dial mark so that the function associated with the button can be identified. An example display configuration of the [Chain Dial] button B30 is shown in FIG. 7(b).

[0070] Fig. 7(b) shows an example of the display configuration of the address book setting screen W20 displayed by the control unit 11 when a user's instruction to select a link source destination is received on the address book screen W20 of Fig. 7(a). Fig. 7(b) shows an example of the operation corresponding to the processing of step S100 of Fig. 4.

[0071] When a candidate destination as a link source destination is selected in the input area R20, the control unit 11 determines whether the attribute of the selected candidate destination is "group" (whether the chain dial function can be applied to the selected candidate destination). If the attribute of the candidate destination is not "group" (the candidate destination is a destination to which the chain dial function can be applied), the control unit 11 sets the selected candidate destination as a link source destination and activates (enables) the [Chain Dial] button B30. In this case, the control unit 11 displays the corresponding destination "Service" display area R22 in a specific display color (represented by diagonal lines in FIG. 7(b)) to indicate that the candidate destination has been selected as a link source destination. In addition, the fax number display area R10 displays the destination number "184" corresponding to the link source destination.

[0072] If the attribute of the destination selected by the user is "group" (the destination selected by the user is a destination to which the chain dial function cannot be applied), the control unit 11 emits an input invalid sound such as a beep to notify the user that the input (selection) is invalid. In this case, the control unit 11 also performs display control to darken or hide the [Chain Dial] button B30 so that it cannot be selected by the user, thereby inactivating (disabling) it. Note that the display of the [Chain Dial] button B30 in its disabled state may be maintained.

[0073] Fig. 8(a) shows an example of the display configuration of the selection screen M10 displayed by the control unit 11 when a user selects the [Chain Dial] button B30 from the screen state of Fig. 7(b). Fig. 8(a) shows an example of the operation corresponding to the processing of step S1400 in Fig. 5.

[0074] In the present disclosure, the input means for inputting (selecting) a destination address can be selected from either an address book or direct input. When the control unit 11 receives a user instruction to select the [Chain Dial] button B30, it displays a selection screen M10 that prompts the user to select either the address book or direct input. Note that the destination address may be selected from an input means such as a transmission history or a global address book (an address book managed by an external device such as a server that can communicate with the multifunction peripheral 100 via the communication unit 17).

[0075] FIG. 8(a) is an example of a selection screen M10 that includes a message with the notification content "Please select the number to link," as well as a "Link with Address Book" button B32 and a "Link with Direct Input" button B34. The user can select the input method for the desired link destination by selecting either the "Link with Address Book" button B32 or the "Link with Direct Input" button B34. The "Chain Dial" button B30 may be hidden by the display of the selection screen M10. If the selection screen M10 does not overlap the "Chain Dial" button B30, as shown in the example of FIG. 8(a), the "Chain Dial" button B30 is displayed in the same color as the display area R22 (represented by diagonal lines in FIG. 8(a)).

[0076] Fig. 8(b) shows an example of the display configuration of the confirmation screen M12 displayed by the control unit 11 when a user's instruction to select the [Link with direct input] button B34 is received from the screen state of Fig. 8(a). Fig. 8(a) shows an example of the operation corresponding to the processing of step S1401; Yes to step S1402 in Fig. 5. Note that the [Chain Dial] button B30 may be hidden by the display of the selection screen M10, and if the selection screen M10 does not overlap the [Chain Dial] button B30, as shown in the example of Fig. 8(b), the [Chain Dial] button B30 is displayed in the same display color as the display area R22.

[0077] In the present disclosure, after linking a destination number based on direct input to the destination number of the link source destination, linking a destination via an address book can be prohibited. In this case, when the control unit 11 receives a selection instruction for the [Link with direct input] button B34 via the selection screen M10, it notifies the user that linking a destination via the address book is not possible after linking a destination number to the destination number of the link source destination. Note that after linking a directly input destination number, it is also possible to link a destination number from an input means other than direct input.

[0078] FIG. 8(b) is an example of a confirmation screen M12 that displays a message saying, "After adding a destination by direct input, you will not be able to add a destination from the address book. Are you sure?", along with an [Add] button B36 and a [Cancel] button B38. The user can add a link destination by direct input by selecting the [Add] button B36. On the other hand, the user can cancel the process of adding a link destination by direct input by selecting the [Cancel] button B38.

[0079] Fig. 9(a) shows an example of the display configuration of the input screen W30 displayed by the control unit 11 when a user selects the [Add] button B36 from the screen state of Fig. 8(b). Fig. 9(a) shows an example of the operation corresponding to the processes of steps S1403 to S1404 in Fig. 5.

[0080] The input screen W30 includes a fax number display area R10 displaying "184-", which indicates that a pause (-) has been added to the end of the destination number "184" of the source destination, a numeric keypad input area R24, a "Pause" button B40, and a "Clear" button B42.

[0081] The numeric keypad input area R24 is an area where the destination number of the destination of the link destination can be directly input. The destination number entered in the numeric keypad input area R24 is displayed connected to a pause (-) added to the end of the destination number of the source of the link destination, "184," displayed in the fax number display area R10.

[0082] The [Pause] button B40 is a button that accepts an instruction to insert a pause (-) into the destination number. The [Pause] button B40 is enabled when the destination number of the link source destination is entered by direct input (when the screen state of FIG. 9(b) described below is reached). The [Clear] button B42 is a button that accepts an instruction to clear the input contents entered via the numeric keypad input area R24.

[0083] Fig. 9(b) is an example of the display configuration of the input screen W30 displayed by the control unit 11 when the user inputs a link-destination number from the screen state of Fig. 9(a). Fig. 9(b) shows an example in which the destination number "01203333" of the link-destination destination "bbb branch" is directly input to the destination number "184-" of the link-source destination "service" (see Fig. 3). Note that when additional link-destination numbers are input from the screen state of Fig. 9(b), the user selects and instructs the [Pause] button B40 to insert a pause (-) after the destination number "01203333", and then inputs the additional link-destination destination number.

[0084] Fig. 10(a) shows an example of the display configuration of the address book screen W20 displayed by the control unit 11 when a user selects the [Link with address book] button B32 from the screen state of Fig. 8(a). Fig. 10(a) shows an example of the operation corresponding to the processing of step S1401; No to step S1408 in Fig. 5.

[0085] If it is determined that the address book has been selected as the input means for inputting the link destination, the control unit 11 displays the destination number "184-" of the link source destination "Service" with a pause (-) added to the end in the fax number display area R10. At this time, the [Chain Dial] button B30 continues to be displayed in the same display color as the display area R22 of the link source destination "Service."

[0086] In this way, by displaying the [Chain Dial] button B30 in the same display color as the link source destination (the "Service" display area R22), visibility for the user can be improved. The user can then intuitively understand that the operating mode of the multifunction device 100 is the chain dial mode, and that the destination displayed in the same display color is the link source destination to which the chain dial function has been applied.

[0087] 10(b) is an example of the display configuration of the address book screen W20 displayed by the control unit 11 when the user selects a link destination destination to be linked to the link source destination "Service." When the control unit 11 receives a user instruction to select a link destination destination (e.g., "aaa branch"), the control unit 11 links the destination number (04257000) of the selected link destination destination to the destination number "184-" of the link source destination "Service," and displays the link destination destination in the fax number display area R10 ("184-04257000"). After adding the link destination destination, the control unit 11 may also display the destination name in the fax number display area R10 in addition to the destination numbers of the link source destination and the link destination destination.

[0088] At this time, the control unit 11 displays the display area R26 of the destination "aaa Branch" selected as the link destination in the same display color as the display area R22 of the link source destination "Service." Then, the control unit 11 cancels the selection state of the [Chain Dial] button B30 and returns the display to the original display color before the link source destination was selected. The control unit 11 may maintain the chain dial function until the user gives an explicit instruction to cancel the chain dial function. Note that when additionally inputting a link destination number from the screen state of FIG. 10(b), the user simply selects and instructs the [Chain Dial] button B30 to insert a pause (-) after the destination number "04257000," and then selects and instructs the additional contact destination.

[0089] Incidentally, if the user selects a destination other than the destination to which the chain dial function is applied (for example, "Branch bbb") after the selection state of the [Chain Dial] button B30 is released, the control unit 11 displays the selected destination "Branch bbb" in the fax number display area R10 and sets it as a transmission destination other than the destination to which the chain dial function is applied.

[0090] Next, Fig. 11(a) shows an example of the display configuration of the address book screen W20 displayed by the control unit 11 when a user selects the [+] button B20 from the screen state of Fig. 10(b). Fig. 11(a) shows an example of the operation corresponding to the processing of steps S150 to S180 in Fig. 4.

[0091] When the control unit 11 receives a user instruction to select the [+] button B20, it confirms the link source destination "Service" and the link destination destination "aaa Branch" as destinations to which the chain dial function is applied. Then, the control unit 11 displays the display area R22 for the link source destination "Service" and the display area R24 for the link destination destination "aaa Branch" in a color different from the display color in the selected state illustrated in FIG. 10(b). Next, the control unit 11 inactivates (disables) the [Chain Dial] button B30.

[0092] Fig. 11(b) shows an example of the display configuration of the search screen W40 displayed by the control unit 11 when a user selects the [Search] button B22 from the screen state of Fig. 10(a). Fig. 11(b) shows an example of the operation corresponding to the processing of step S1407; No to step S1409 in Fig. 5.

[0093] The search screen W40 includes a numeric keypad input area R24, a search number display area R28, a "Clear" button B42, and an "OK" button B24.

[0094] The numeric keypad input area R24 is an area that accepts the input of a search number for searching for a destination. The search number display area R28 is an area that displays the search number accepted via the numeric keypad input area R24. The [Clear] button B42 is a button that accepts an instruction to clear the input content accepted via the numeric keypad input area R24. The [OK] button B24 is a button that accepts an instruction to execute a destination search based on the search number displayed in the search number display area R28. When accepting the input of a search number for a destination with the attribute "group" (a destination to which the chain dial function cannot be applied), the control unit 11 emits an input invalid sound such as a beep to notify the user that the input (selection) is invalid.

[0095] The destinations searched for via the search screen W40 can be displayed in the input field R20 of the address book screen W20. The user can select the destination displayed in the input field R20 as the destination.

[0096] As described above, in the first embodiment, when using the chain dialing function, the link source destination, link destination destination, and chain dialing button are displayed in the same display color so that they can be distinguished, allowing the user to visually recognize that a destination displayed in the same display color as the chain dialing button is a destination to which the chain dialing function has been applied. Therefore, according to the first embodiment, user operability can be improved even when the display area of ​​the operation screen is small.

[0097] [2 Second embodiment] The second embodiment is an embodiment in which, for a destination selected as a destination to which the chain dial function is applied in the first embodiment, the destination (name) and the destination number corresponding to the destination are displayed.

[0098] The functional configuration and processing flow according to the second embodiment can be the same as those of the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted here.

[0099] FIG. 12(a) shows an example of the display configuration of the address book screen W50 displayed by the control unit 11 when a link source destination selection instruction is received from the user on the address book setting screen W20 of FIG. 7(a).

[0100] In the second embodiment, when a candidate destination is selected as a link source destination, the control unit 11 displays the destination (name) and destination number of the candidate destination in the fax number display area R10.

[0101] 12(a) shows an example in which, when the user selects the destination "Service" as a candidate destination for the link source destination, the control unit 11 displays the destination (first name) "Service" and the destination number "184" in two rows in the fax number display area R10. In this case, to make the name of the link source destination easier to understand, it is preferable to display the destination (first name) of the link source destination in a font size larger than the font size used to display the destination number.

[0102] Fig. 12(b) shows an example of the display configuration of the address book screen W50 displayed by the control unit 11 when a user selects the [Chain Dial] button B33 from the screen state of Fig. 12(a). Note that Fig. 12(a) can have the same configuration as the address book screen W20 exemplified in Fig. 10(a) of the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted here.

[0103] 13 shows an example of the display configuration of the address book screen W50 displayed by the control unit 11 when the user selects a link destination destination to be linked to the link source destination "Service." When the control unit 11 receives a user instruction to select a link destination destination (for example, "aaa Branch"), the control unit 11 links the destination number (04257000) of the selected link destination destination to the destination number "184-" of the link source destination "Service," and further displays a character string in the fax number display area R10 in which the name of the link destination destination is linked to the name of the link source destination ("184-04257000" "Service-aaa Branch").

[0104] As described above, according to the second embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, it is possible to display the destination (name) and the destination number corresponding to the destination selected as the destination to which the chain dial function is to be applied, so that the user can accurately understand the destination to which the chain dial function is to be applied.

[0105] [3 Third embodiment] The third embodiment is a form in which an identifier indicating that the chain dial function has been applied is attached to a destination to which the chain dial function has been applied and displayed.

[0106] In the third embodiment, for example, when displaying a screen such as an address book screen, a destination list screen, or a transmission history screen (not shown), the control unit 11 performs control to display the destination by attaching an identifier indicating that the destination is a destination to which the chain dial function has been applied.

[0107] The functional configuration and processing flow according to the third embodiment can be the same as those of the first or second embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted here.

[0108] Fig. 14(a) is an example of the display configuration of the address book screen W20 according to the third embodiment. The address book screen W20 has the same configuration as the address book screen W20 illustrated in Fig. 10(a), and therefore a description of the main configuration will be omitted. In order to make it easy to identify destinations to which the chain dial function has been applied, the address book screen W20 according to the third embodiment displays the destination "service" with an icon I12 attached as an identifier indicating that the destination is a destination to which the chain dial function has been applied.

[0109] FIG. 14B illustrates an example of the display configuration of the destination list screen W60 according to the third embodiment. The destination list screen W60 can be displayed based on a selection instruction from the [Destination Count] button B44, located between the fax number display area R10 and the [+] button B20 on the address book screen W20 illustrated in FIG. 14A after the destination "aaa Branch" is selected as a contact destination in FIG. 14A. As illustrated in FIG. 14B, the control unit 11 displays the destination "Direct Input" on the destination list screen W60 with an icon I12 as an identifier indicating that the chain dial function has been applied, to facilitate identification of destinations to which the chain dial function has been applied. While in the present disclosure, destinations to which the chain dial function has been applied are displayed as "Direct Input" on the destination list screen W60, this is not limiting. For example, destinations to which the chain dial function has been applied may be displayed as "Chain (Linked) Destination," "Service-aaa Branch," or the like on the destination list screen W60.

[0110] In response to a user's selection instruction for a destination marked with icon I12, the control unit 11 may perform control to display detailed information about the chain dial function. For example, Fig. 15 shows an example in which detailed information about the chain dial function is displayed in the destination display area R30, including the destination (first name) "Service" and its destination number "184" of the link source destination to which the chain dial function has been applied, and the destination (first name) "aaa Branch" and its destination number "04257000".

[0111] As described above, according to the third embodiment, destinations to which the chain dialing function has been applied are displayed with an identifier indicating that the chain dialing function has been applied, so that destinations to which the chain dialing function has been applied can be easily identified from destinations displayed in the destination list or transmission history list.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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.

[0116] 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 of course also included in the present disclosure.

[0117] Furthermore, each functional block or feature of the device used in the above-described embodiments can be implemented or performed by an electrical circuit, for example, 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, or a conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or 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]

[0118] 100 MFPs 11 Control section 13 Display section 15 Operation input section 17 Communications Department 19 Memory section 191 Control Program 192 Display Control Program 193 Job Control Program 1931 Chain Dial Control Program 194 Destination Storage Area 1941 Destination Management Table 195 Transmission history storage area

Claims

1. A display unit and a control unit are included. The display unit displaying a destination input screen for receiving input of a destination, and a selection button for receiving settings relating to a chain dial function for linking destination numbers corresponding to the destinations inputted via the destination input screen and automatically calling the linked destination numbers; The control unit an image processing apparatus that displays the destination to which the chain dial function is applied in an identifiable manner by selecting the selection button;

2. the destination input screen includes an input area in which the destination can be input based on an address book; The control unit 2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the destinations to which the chain dial function is applied and the destinations to which the chain dial function is not applied are displayed in a distinguishable manner in the input area.

3. The control unit 3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the destination to which the chain dial function is applied is displayed in the same display color as the selection button.

4. The control unit 4. The image processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the destinations to which the chain dial function is applied, the destination of the link source and the destination of the link destination, are displayed in the same display color.

5. the destination input screen includes a display area capable of displaying the destination number, The control unit 2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the destination to which the chain dial function is applied and the destination number corresponding to the destination are displayed in the display area.

6. The control unit 3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the destination to which the chain dial function has been applied is displayed in the input area with an identifier indicating that the chain dial function has been applied.

7. The control unit 7. The image processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein when the destination to which the identifier is assigned is selected by the user, detailed information about the chain dial function is displayed.

8. The detailed information may include:

8. The image processing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the destination of the link source and the destination of the link destination are included.

9. displaying a destination input screen for receiving input of a destination, and a selection button for receiving settings relating to a chain dial function for linking destination numbers corresponding to the destinations inputted via the destination input screen and automatically calling the linked destination numbers; a display control method for displaying the destination to which the chain dial function is applied by selecting the selection button in an identifiable manner;

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