Program for supporting function of general-purpose scan software, control method for information processing device and information processing device

Abstract

To solve the problem that a user who utilizes a scan standard driver cannot designate a scan vender-original function (contrast, brightness adjustment) since the user stays in functions which can be implemented only by the standard driver.SOLUTION: A program for supporting a function of general-purpose scan software which is usable in common in image processing devices provided by a plurality of makers causes a computer to display a display screen for receiving settings of a contrast adjustment or a brightness adjustment of an image which is readable by the image processing device and output a reading instruction which causes the image processing device to execute scan in accordance with the settings received on the display screen.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3B

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a program that supports the functions of general-purpose scan software, a control method for an information processing apparatus, and an information processing apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] A known configuration uses a scan driver installed on a host computer as software for controlling the scanning device, and issues scanning instructions to a scanning device connected to the host computer. An operating system (OS), which is the basic software, is installed on the host computer, and the scan driver is configured according to the specifications defined by the OS and runs when called by the OS. By providing a scan driver that conforms to the OS specifications, a vendor (manufacturer) that provides a scanning device can provide a means for issuing scanning instructions to the scanning device using the OS.

[0003] In recent years, Windows® has begun to provide standard class drivers (hereinafter referred to as "standard drivers") that can be used across scanning devices provided by multiple vendors. Such standard drivers are included in the OS package and can be easily used by connecting any scanning device to a host computer. This eliminates the need to separately install a model-specific scan driver suited to the scanning device, providing greater convenience. Furthermore, standard drivers are expected to be configured to allow users to specify scanning functions based on scan function information generated based on information acquired from the connected scanning device. This allows users of a standard driver to specify scanning functions appropriate to the capabilities of the connected scanning device, even while using a single standard driver. However, this is limited to functions that can be implemented by the standard driver alone, and does not allow users to specify functions unique to the scanning device's vendor (manufacturer). Therefore, Patent Document 1 discloses a program that expands the printing function of general-purpose software (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-033526 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Here, functions of the scan driver unique to each scan vendor include image adjustment functions such as contrast adjustment and brightness adjustment. The contrast adjustment function is a function for adjusting the contrast of the scanned image, and the brightness adjustment function is a function for adjusting the brightness of the scanned image. However, when using the standard driver, the contrast adjustment function and brightness adjustment function are not available, and the user cannot adjust the contrast and brightness of the image. In view of the above problems, the present invention aims to provide a mechanism for expanding the functionality of general-purpose scanning software that can be used on scanning devices provided by multiple manufacturers, thereby enabling the use of contrast adjustment and brightness adjustment functions. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention is a program that supports the functions of general-purpose scanning software that can be used in common with image processing devices provided by multiple manufacturers, and is characterized in that it causes a computer to display a display screen that accepts settings for contrast adjustment or brightness adjustment of an image to be read by the image processing device, and outputs a reading instruction that causes the image processing device to perform a scan in accordance with the settings accepted on the display screen. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, a program that expands the functions of general-purpose scanning software that can be used in common with scanning devices provided by multiple manufacturers can enable users to use a contrast adjustment function or a brightness adjustment function. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a hardware configuration diagram of a scanning system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram illustrating the software configuration of a scanning system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3A] Scan setting screen and detailed setting screen of embodiment 1 [Figure 3B] Scan setting screen and detailed setting screen of embodiment 1 [Figure 4] Editing process of scan function information by the extension application of the first embodiment [Figure 5A] Scan function list (contrast) of each device in embodiment 1 [Figure 5B] Scan function list (brightness) of each device in embodiment 1 [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a sequence diagram illustrating a scan operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] Scan processing in the extended application of embodiment 1 [Figure 8] Scanning process in the scanning device of embodiment 1 [Figure 9A] Additional processing of contrast adjustment function of the extended application of the second embodiment [Figure 9B] Additional processing of brightness adjustment function of the extended application of the second embodiment [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a scan operation according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11A] Scan processing in the extended application of embodiment 2 [Figure 11B] Scan processing in the extended application of embodiment 2 [Figure 12]FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a scan operation according to the third embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a scan operation according to the third embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a scan operation according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 15] Scan processing in the extended application of the fourth embodiment [Figure 16A] Table of capability information in embodiment 5 (contrast) [Figure 16B] 10 is a diagram showing the display section of the extension application of the fifth embodiment. [Figure 16C] Table of performance information (brightness) in embodiment 5 [Figure 16D] 10 is a diagram showing the display section of the extension application of the fifth embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a scan operation according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 18] Scan processing in the extended application of embodiment 5 [Figure 19] Scan processing in the extended application of embodiment 5 [Figure 20A] 10 is a diagram of the display unit of the extension application of the sixth embodiment. [Figure 20B] 10 is a diagram of the display unit of the extension application of the sixth embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a scan operation according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 22] Scan processing in the extended application of embodiment 6 [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a scan operation according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 24] Scan processing in the extended application of embodiment 6 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the scope of the present invention as defined in the claims, and not all of the combinations of features described in the embodiments are necessarily essential to the solution of the present invention. [Embodiment 1]

[0010] Scanning system hardware configuration FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the scan system. (host computer) In this diagram, a host computer 101 is an example of an information processing device, and has an input interface 110, a CPU 111, a ROM 112, a RAM 113, an external storage device 114, an output interface 115, and an input / output interface 116. Input devices such as a keyboard 118 and a pointing device 117 are connected to the input interface 110, and display devices such as a display unit 119 are connected to the output interface 115. A NETIF 120 is a network interface that controls data transfer between the host computer and external devices via a network.

[0011] The ROM 112 stores an initialization program. The external storage device 114 is, for example, a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD). The external storage device 114 stores a group of application programs, an operating system (OS), and various other data. The RAM 113 is used as a work memory when various programs stored in the external storage device 114 are executed, and enables the various programs to run within the host computer 101 . In this embodiment, the CPU 111 performs processing in accordance with the code of a program stored in the ROM 112, thereby executing the functions of the host computer 101, which will be described later, and the processing according to the flowcharts, which will be described later.

[0012] (scanning device) The scanning device 102, which is a device, is an example of an image processing device, and is connected to the host computer 101 via an input / output interface 198 of the scanning device 102 and an input / output interface 116 of the host computer 101. The input / output interface 198 of the scanning device 102 and the input / output interface 116 of the host computer 101 may be connected via a wired network or a wireless network.

[0013] The scanning device 102 , which is an image processing device, has a CPU 191 , a ROM 192 , a RAM 193 , an operation unit 194 , a reading unit 195 , a printing unit 196 , a NETIF 197 , an input / output interface 198 , and an external storage device 199 . The CPU 191 controls the entire scanning device 102 . The ROM 192 is a memory that stores programs. The RAM 193 is a memory that temporarily stores programs and image data. The reading unit 195 is a scanner that reads an image of a document. The printing unit 196 prints an image on a sheet based on image data. Note that the printing unit 196 is not essential. The NETIF 197 is a network interface that controls data transfer between external devices via a network. The image processing unit 190 performs various image editing processes on input image data.

[0014] Here, the host computer 101 and the scanning device 102 are configured as separate devices, but they may also be configured as a single information processing device. A reading setting screen and a detailed setting screen, which will be described later, are displayed on the display unit 119. In this embodiment, an electrophotographic digital multifunction peripheral having multiple functions such as copying, printing, and faxing will be described as an example of the scanning device. However, this embodiment is not limited to this, and can also be applied to devices using other processes, such as inkjet printing, or scanners that only read images. The host computer 101 may also be a desktop computer, a smartphone, or a laptop computer.

[0015] Scanning system software configuration Fig. 2 is a diagram showing a schematic software configuration of the scan system. The software configuration in Fig. 2 is stored in the external storage device 114 in Fig. 1. Here, the explanation is based on the premise that the scan system uses a host computer 101 equipped with Microsoft (registered trademark) Windows (registered trademark) 11 as the OS. Note that a standard driver is also provided for Apple's MacOS, and the present technology can also be applied to this. FIG. 2( a ) illustrates a typical configuration where an extension application 204 is not associated with general-purpose scanning software 202 and scanning device 102 . FIG. 2B is a diagram showing a configuration in which an extension application 204 is associated with general-purpose scan software 202 and a scan device 102. As shown in FIG.

[0016] Scanning system software configuration (without associated extended applications) First, the configuration of the scan system when the extended application 204 is not associated will be described with reference to FIG. The scan application 201 is software that imports scanned content (image data). For example, it is a document creation application or an image editing application. When the scan application 201 receives a scan request from a user, it issues a scan instruction to the OS. The scan instruction includes scan setting information for instructing the operation of the general-purpose scan software 202 and the scan device 102.

[0017] To execute a scan instruction, the scan application 201 can display a scan setting screen provided by the general-purpose scan software 202, the OS, or the scan application 201. When the advanced settings button on the scan setting screen is pressed, the general-purpose scan software 202 additionally displays an advanced setting screen. The scan setting screen and the advanced setting screen will be described later with reference to FIG. 3. The advanced setting screen includes setting items (hereinafter also referred to as "control items") indicating configurable scan functions and control items indicating their setting values ​​according to the scan function information (configurable information) of the general-purpose scan software 202. The general-purpose scan software 202 determines the scan capabilities based on the scan function information 203. The scan function information 203 is data indicating all configurable scan functions, their setting values, and the exclusive relationships between the setting values. The scan function information 203 is included in a configuration file of the general-purpose scan software 202 and stored in the external storage device 114 as an unmodifiable file. Alternatively, the scan function information 203 can be dynamically generated by the general-purpose scan software 202. Specifically, the general-purpose scan software 202 or the OS can be configured to acquire scan device attribute data from the scan device 102 and generate the scan function information 203 based on the attribute information in the acquired attribute data. When the scan function information 203 is dynamically generated, the generated scan function information 203 is editable. The scan device attribute data acquired from the scan device 102 includes attribute information indicating the scan functions (scan device capabilities) that can be specified by the scan device 102 and the setting values ​​related to the attribute information. This information is stored in the RAM 113.

[0018] With this configuration, the general-purpose scanning software 202 can be configured to allow the user to specify scan functions available for each connected scanning device 102. That is, even when scanning devices with different functions or developed by different vendors are connected, the general-purpose scanning software 202 can be configured to allow the user to specify scan functions available for the connected scanning device. The general-purpose scanning software 202 can also generate scan instructions that can be interpreted by multiple scanning devices manufactured by different vendors and output the scan instructions to each of the multiple scanning devices manufactured by different vendors. The vendor may be the manufacturer of the scanning device 102. Here, the general-purpose scanning software 202 is a standard class driver that performs scanning based on a standard scanning protocol called Mopria. The general-purpose scanning software 202 acquires capability information of the connected scanning device 102 and generates scan function information 203 based on that information so that the user can specify scan functions supported by the connected scanning device 102. However, the general-purpose scanning software 202 does not support contrast adjustment or brightness adjustment functions. This is because the contrast and brightness adjustment functions are unique to each scan vendor (scan manufacturer).

[0019] <Contrast adjustment function> The contrast adjustment function adjusts the contrast of the scanned image. By scanning a document with a strong contrast, you can increase the difference between the bright and dark areas of the image and obtain clear image data. By scanning a document with a weak contrast, you can reduce the difference between the bright and dark areas of the image and obtain softer image data. The contrast adjustment function allows you to set the adjustment level. Automatic settings are also possible, allowing you to automatically obtain image data with the appropriate contrast. In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the adjustment level range is set to 10 levels, but the setting of this function is not limited to this method, and a wider or narrower setting range may also be used. <Brightness adjustment function> The brightness adjustment function adjusts the brightness of the scanned image. By scanning a document using this function, the overall color of the image data can be made brighter or darker, allowing the user to obtain the image data of their choice. The brightness adjustment function allows you to set the adjustment level in the same way as the contrast adjustment function. It also allows you to set it automatically, so that image data with the appropriate brightness can be obtained automatically. In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the adjustment level range is set to 10 levels, but the setting of this function is not limited to this method, and a wider or narrower setting range may also be used.

[0020] Scan system software configuration (with extended application association) Next, the configuration of the scan system when the extended application 204 is associated will be described with reference to Fig. 2(b). Note that the description of the same configuration as Fig. 2(a) will be omitted. The extension application 204 is software for extending or supporting the functions of the general-purpose scan software 202 and is also called a support application. The extension application 204 is software that is not pre-installed (not bundled) in the OS. Therefore, the user must operate the host computer 101 to download and install the extension application 204 from a server via the Internet. Alternatively, the extension application 204 may be automatically installed when the scanning device 102 is connected to the host computer 101. Specifically, when the scanning device 102 is connected to the host computer 101, the OS acquires device identification information from the scanning device 102. The OS may download and install the extension application 204 corresponding to the acquired device identification information from a server via the Internet. In other words, the general-purpose scan software 202 and the extension application 204 are stored in the host computer 101 as separate files.

[0021] The general-purpose scanning software 202 and the extension application 204 may be updated and upgraded, but these update processes are also performed at different times. That is, the timing at which the host computer 101 acquires the general-purpose scanning software 202 is different from the timing at which the extension application 204 is acquired. Furthermore, the trigger at which the host computer 101 acquires the general-purpose scanning software 202 is different from the trigger at which the extension application 204 is acquired. When the extension application 204 is installed, the OS associates the extension application 204 with the general-purpose scanning software 202 and the scanning device 102.

[0022] The extension application 204 described in this embodiment includes a scan setting screen extension unit 205, a scan function extension unit 206, an image data editing unit 207, and a notification unit 209. The extension application 204 also includes shared information 208 that can be commonly accessed by each unit. The shared information 208 is actually a file saved in the external storage device 114 or information stored in the RAM 113. The extension application 204 writes and reads information to and from the shared information 208 by using an API (Application Program Interface) provided by the OS. The extension application 204 may terminate its operation each time the processing of each unit is completed. In this case, the OS will start the extension application 204 each time it receives a request to use each unit. Furthermore, the extension application 204 may cancel the processing of each unit during processing. If the processing is canceled, the job being processed is deleted by the OS.

[0023] When the scan application 201 receives a scan request from a user, it issues a scan instruction to the OS. In this configuration, as in the configuration of FIG. 2(a), the scan application 201 can display a scan setting screen. In this configuration, a detailed setting screen provided by the extension application 204 is displayed. Specifically, a detailed setting screen provided by the scan setting screen extension unit 205 included in the extension application 204 is displayed. In addition, the scan setting screen extension unit 205 can save the detailed settings set by the user in the shared information 208.

[0024] The extended application 204 has an image data editing unit 207. The image data editing unit 207 acquires image data from the scanning device 102 and performs editing. The image data editing unit 207 acquires detailed setting information from the shared information 208 and performs image editing on the image data according to the detailed settings. The extended application may be configured to acquire the image data obtained by the general-purpose scanning software 202 and perform image editing on the image data according to the detailed settings. Also, in the configuration of FIG. 2(b), there may be cases where the user does not perform contrast adjustment or brightness adjustment. In that case, like the configuration of FIG. 2(a), the general-purpose scanning software 202 may issue a scan request instruction to the scanning device 102 without going through the extended application 204.

[0025] The extended application 204 has a scan function extension unit 206. The scan function extension unit 206 can edit the scan function information 203 generated by the general-purpose scanning software 202 or the OS. Thereby, the scan function extension unit 206 can add functions provided by the extended application 204. Also, the scan function extension unit 206 can add functions that the scanning device 102 supports but the general-purpose scanning software 202 does not support (contrast adjustment function, brightness adjustment function), add exclusive relationships between setting values of the scan function, etc. The OS starts the scan function extension unit 206 when the extended application 204 is first associated with the scanning device 102 and the general-purpose scanning software 202. Further, the OS may start the scan function extension unit 206 at other timings such as when the OS is started.

[0026] The extension application 204 also has a notification unit 209. The notification unit 209 can display a notification to the user in response to an error occurring in the scanning device 102, which is an image processing device. For example, if a reading jam error occurs in the scanning device 102, the general-purpose scanning software 202 detects it, and the OS uses a notification function called a toast notification, which is an OS function, to display a message on the display unit 119. When the user presses this toast notification, the OS calls the notification unit 209 of the extension application 204, and the UI screen of the notification unit 209 is displayed. The UI screen of the notification unit 209 can display, for example, a detailed message of the scan jam error and a method for clearing the jam.

[0027] Furthermore, the configuration of the extension application 204 for realizing this embodiment is not limited to having all of the above-mentioned functions (units), but may have only some of the functions or other functions. Also, the extension application 204 may simply be called scan software. As described above, the extension application 204 can be said to have at least one of the following functions. The first is a function to display a setting screen (scan setting screen expansion unit 205). The second function is to edit image data according to detailed settings (image data editing unit 207). The third is a function (scan function extension unit 206) that extends the functions that can be specified in the image data generation software. The fourth function is a function (notification unit 209) that displays a screen in response to an error occurring in the scanning device 102.

[0028] (Settings screen) Next, an example of the scan setting screen and the detailed setting screen in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3( a ) shows a scan setting screen displayed by the scan application 201 . FIG. 3(b) is a detailed setting screen that is displayed in the case where the configuration shown in FIG. 2(a) does not include the extension application 204. 3(c) and (d) are detailed setting screens that are displayed when the configuration includes the extension application 204 shown in FIG. 2(b). It should be noted that the units and modules that display the scan setting screen are not limited to those described above. For example, the scan setting screen expansion unit 205 may be configured to only generate a display screen. In this case, the scan setting screen expansion unit 205 transmits the generated display screen to the scan application 201 via the general-purpose scan software 202. The scan application 201 may be configured to display the acquired display screen.

[0029] <Scan settings screen (scan application)> First, the scan setting screen displayed by the scan application 201 in FIG. 3(a) will be described. The control 301 has various objects that allow the user to set the scanner to which image data will be scanned (the scanner to be used for reading). Control 303 is a button to start the scan, and control 304 is a button to cancel the scan. Control 304 is an advanced settings button, and when control 304 is pressed, an additional scan screen is displayed by the general-purpose scan software 202 or the scan settings screen extension unit 205.

[0030] <Advanced settings screen (general-purpose scanning software)> Next, Fig. 3(b) will be described. Fig. 3(b) shows an additional setting screen displayed by the general-purpose scan software 202 when the extension application 204 is not present. A control 305 allows the user to set the reading destination, and indicates that the platen is selected. Control 306 is a setting end button, and when control 306 is pressed, the screen returns to the scan setting screen of FIG. 3(a).

[0031] <Scan Settings Screen (Scan Settings Screen Expansion Unit)> (Contrast adjustment) Next, we will explain Figure 3(c). Figure 3(c) is an additional setting screen for the contrast adjustment function that is displayed by the scan setting screen extension unit 205 when the extension application 204 is installed. Unlike Figure 3(b), a control 307, a list 308, and a control 309 have been added. Control 307 is a button that allows the user to select a contrast adjustment setting, and it shows that "Auto" is selected. List 308 shows the contrast adjustment setting items when control 307 is pressed. List 308 shows that in addition to the currently selected "Automatic," there is also "Manual." "Automatic" is a setting for automatically adjusting the contrast, and the contrast can be adjusted automatically depending on the scanned image. "Manual" is a setting for manually adjusting the contrast, and the contrast of the scanned image can be adjusted by moving the bar of control 309 left or right. Control 310 indicates the contrast level set by the user when "Manual" is selected in list 308. In the following embodiment, the operation when "Auto" is selected in list 308 will be described, but the operation when "Manual" is selected and the user sets the contrast level is similar.

[0032] (Brightness adjustment) Next, we will explain Figure 3(d). Figure 3(d) is an additional setting screen for the brightness adjustment function, displayed by the scan setting screen extension unit 205 when the extension application 204 is installed. As with Figure 3(c), control 311, list 312, and control 313 have been added. Control 311 is a button that allows the user to select the brightness adjustment setting, and indicates that "Automatic" is selected. List 312 shows the brightness adjustment setting items that are displayed when control 311 is pressed. List 312 indicates that in addition to the currently selected "Automatic," there is also "Manual." "Automatic" is a setting that automatically adjusts brightness, and brightness can be automatically adjusted based on the scanned image. "Manual" is a setting that allows the user to manually adjust brightness, and the brightness of the scanned image can be adjusted by moving the bar of control 313 left or right. Control 314 indicates the brightness level set by the user when "Manual" is selected in list 312. In the following examples, the behavior when "Auto" is selected in list 312 will be described, but the behavior when "Manual" is selected and the user sets the brightness level is similar. In this example, the manual setting is configured using a bar, but it may also be configured to input values ​​directly or using buttons to select values. It may also be configured to display an icon representing the brightness and allow selection.

[0033] Here, we explain why the scan setting items differ between Figure 3(b) and Figures 3(c) and (d). The advanced setting screen is generated by referring to the scan capabilities generated based on the scan function information. However, because the general-purpose scan software 202 does not support contrast or brightness adjustment functions, it cannot add the contrast or brightness adjustment functions to the scan function information. Even if the scan function information originally includes a contrast or brightness adjustment function, the general-purpose scan software 202 cannot interpret the contrast or brightness adjustment function included in the scan function information. Therefore, it cannot display the contrast or brightness adjustment settings on the advanced setting screen. However, the scan function extension unit 206 is configured to add the contrast or brightness adjustment function to the scan function information 203, and the scan setting screen extension unit 205 is configured to display the advanced setting screen by referring to the scan capabilities. With these configurations, the extension application 204 can display the contrast or brightness adjustment settings on the advanced setting screen. It should be noted that FIGS. 3(c) and 3(d) may additionally include an extension function other than the contrast adjustment function or the brightness adjustment function.

[0034] [Editing process of scan function information: Scan function expansion unit] 4, 5A, and 5B, a process flow in which the scan function extension unit 206 edits the scan function information 203 will be described. Each step is realized by the CPU 111 executing each unit read from the external storage device 114 to the RAM 113.

[0035] (Contrast adjustment function) First, the contrast adjustment function will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5A. First, in S401, the scan function extension unit 206 acquires capability information from the scanning device 102, which is an image processing device. The capability information is attribute information indicating functions that can be specified in the scanning device 102 and setting values ​​related to the attribute information. Table 501A in Fig. 5A shows an example of a list of capability information acquired from the scanning device 102. As shown in Table 501A in Fig. 5A, functions such as scan size specification and options that can be set for each function can be acquired from the scanning device 102.

[0036] Next, in S402, the scan function extension unit 206 obtains a list of scan functions supported by the extension application 204 from the shared information 208. The list of scan functions supported by the extension application 204 is stored in the shared information 208 and contains all scan functions that the extension application 204 can process and their setting values. Table 502A in Fig. 5A shows an example of the list of scan functions supported by the extension application 204. The list of scan functions supported by the extension application 204 may be updated when the extension application 204 is updated, for example.

[0037] Next, in S403, the scan function extension unit 206 obtains the scan function information 203 created by the general-purpose scan software 202 from the OS. Table 503A in FIG. 5A shows an example of a list of scan functions supported by the general-purpose scan software 202. The scan function information 203 created by the general-purpose scan software 202 is created based on the capability information (Table 501A in FIG. 5A) acquired by the general-purpose scan software 202 from the scan device 102. The scan function information 203 created by the general-purpose scan software 202 lists only the scan functions supported by the general-purpose scan software 202 out of the scan functions acquired from the scan device 102, and therefore the functions of the scan function information are limited. For example, the capability information (Table 501A in FIG. 5A) acquired from the scan device 102 includes a contrast adjustment function, but the general-purpose scan software 202 does not support the contrast adjustment function, and therefore the contrast adjustment function is not listed in the scan function information. The scan function extension unit 206 adds functions and options to the scan function information, which enables the extension application 204 to compensate for any lack of functions in the general-purpose scan software 202. The scan function extension unit 206 can also delete unnecessary functions and options from the scan function information created by the general-purpose scan software 202.

[0038] The following steps S404, S405, and S406 are processes that are repeatedly performed for the list of functions of the scan function acquired from the scanning device in S401. In this embodiment, these processes are repeatedly performed for the 11 types included in table 501, from "Read size: A4H" to "Contrast adjustment: Manual (level)." First, in S404, the scan function extension unit 206 determines whether the function / option being processed exists in the scan function information 203 generated by the general-purpose scan software 202. If the function / option being processed exists in the scan function information 203 (Yes in S404), the process returns to the beginning of the loop. Specifically, the next item is selected from the function / options of the scan function acquired from the scan device 102, and S404 is performed again. If the last item of the function / options of the capability information acquired from the scan device 102 is being processed, the process exits the loop and ends the flowchart of FIG. 4. If the function / option being processed does not exist in the scan function information 203 (No in S404), the process proceeds to S405. In this embodiment, for example, "Scan destination: Platen" shown in Table 501A, which is a scan function of the scan device 102, also exists in Table 503, which is a scan function of the general-purpose scan software 202, and therefore, a Yes determination is made in S404. On the other hand, since "Read size: A4H" shown in table 501A does not exist in table 503A, it is determined as No, and the process proceeds to S405.

[0039] Next, in S405, the scan function extension unit 206 determines whether a function / option currently being processed exists among the function / options supported by the extension application 204. If it is determined that a function / option currently being processed exists (Yes in S405), the process proceeds to S406. If it is determined that a function / option currently being processed does not exist (No in S405), as in the case where the determination in S404 is Yes, S404 is performed again, or the process of this flowchart ends by exiting the loop. In this embodiment, for example, if the function currently being processed is "contrast adjustment: automatic," this also exists in table 502, which is the scan function of the extension application 204, so the determination in S405 is Yes and the process proceeds to S406. Next, in S406, the scan function extension unit 206 adds the function and option being processed to the scan function information 203. After processing S406, as in the case where the determination in S404 is Yes, S404 is performed again, or the loop is exited and the processing of this flowchart is terminated. As described above, the scan function extension unit 206 adds functions and options that are not supported by the general-purpose scan software 202, are supported by the scan device 102, and are supported by the extension application 204 to the scan function information 203. Scan capabilities are generated based on the scan function information 203 edited by this process. Furthermore, the scan setting screen extension unit 205 generates a display screen based on the generated scan capabilities, thereby expanding functions that are not supported by the general-purpose scan software 202 and making it possible to display the detailed setting screen shown in FIG. 3(c).

[0040] (Brightness adjustment function) Next, a case where the brightness adjustment function is extended will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5B. Note that only the differences from a case where the contrast adjustment function is extended will be described. Table 501B in FIG. 5B shows an example of a list of capability information acquired from the scanning device 102, which is an image processing device, and Table 502B in FIG. 5B shows an example of a list of scan functions supported by the extension application 204. The list of scan functions supported by the general-purpose scan software is the same as Table 503B in FIG. 5A. Only the differences from the case in FIG. 5A will be described below. In the example of Figure 5B, the capability information (table 501B in Figure 5B) acquired from the scan device 102 includes a brightness adjustment function, but the general-purpose scan software 202 shown in table 503B in Figure 5B does not support the brightness adjustment function. Therefore, the scan function extension unit 206 adds the brightness adjustment function to the scan function information 203, thereby making it possible to use the brightness adjustment function. The processing operation will be explained in detail below using Figure 5B.

[0041] In the case of the brightness adjustment function of FIG. 5B, the "brightness adjustment function" shown in Table 501B of FIG. 5B, which is the capability information of the scan device 102, does not exist in Table 503B, which is the capability information of the general-purpose scan software 202. Therefore, when the "brightness adjustment function" is the function being processed, a "No" result is determined in S405 of FIG. 4. Then, since the "brightness adjustment function" exists in Table 502B of FIG. 5B, which is the scan function of the extension application 204, a "Yes" result is determined in S406. Then, since the "brightness adjustment function" exists in Table 502B, which is the scan function of the extension application 204, a "Yes" result is determined in S406. Then, in S407, the "brightness adjustment function" is added to the scan function information 203. Through this processing, the scan setting screen expansion unit 205 can further generate a display screen based on the scan function information 203, thereby expanding functions not supported by the general-purpose scan software 202 and displaying the detailed setting screen shown in Figure 3(d).

[0042] Scanning process sequence Next, the sequence of the scan application 201, the general-purpose scan software 202, the extension application 204, and the scan device 102 after the scan application 201 accepts scan settings will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Note that each step other than that of the scan device 102 in Fig. 6 is performed by the CPU 111 reading the scan application 201, the general-purpose scan software 202, and the extension application 204 from the external storage device 114 to the RAM 113 and executing them. Each step of the scan device 102 in Fig. 6 is realized by the CPU 191 of the scan device 102 reading a program stored in the ROM 192 or the external storage device 199 to the RAM 193 and executing it.

[0043] In S601, the scan application 201 accepts scan settings from the user. The user can instruct the scan application 201 to set scan settings by operating the pointing device 117 or keyboard 118. In S602, the scan application 201 displays the scan setting screen shown in FIG. In S603, the scan application 201 accepts an instruction for detailed settings. The user can instruct detailed settings by operating the pointing device 117 or the keyboard 118 to select a control 302.

[0044] In S604, the scan application 201 requests the general-purpose scan software 202 to display the detailed settings. In S605, the general-purpose scanning software 202 requests the extension application 204 to display the detailed settings. As described above, the general-purpose scanning software 202 displays a predetermined detailed settings screen in the configuration shown in Fig. 2(b). If a contrast adjustment function has been added (as in Fig. 5A), the detailed settings screen is that shown in Fig. 3(c), and if a brightness adjustment function has been added (as in Fig. 5B), the detailed settings screen is that shown in Fig. 3(d). In S606, the scan setting screen expansion unit 205 of the extension application 204 displays the detailed setting screen of FIG. 3(c) in the case of FIG. 5A, or the detailed setting screen of FIG. 3(d) in the case of FIG. 5B, on the display unit 119. This is because, as described in FIG. 4, the scan function expansion unit 206 has added a contrast adjustment setting to the scan function information 203. The scan setting screen expansion unit 205 references the scan capability generated based on the added scan function information, and displays the detailed setting screen of FIG. 3(c) on the display unit 119. In this embodiment, the extension application 204 supports only one resolution, 300 × 300 dpi, so there is no need for the user to select it, and it is not displayed on the detailed setting screen. Even if it is not selectable, it may be displayed on the detailed setting screen to clearly indicate it to the user.

[0045] In S607, the scan setting screen expansion unit 205 accepts detailed settings. In the case of FIG. 5A, it is assumed that the user has selected "Reading destination: Platen" and "Contrast adjustment: Automatic" as shown in FIG. 3(c). In the case of FIG. 5B, it is assumed that the user has selected "Reading destination: Platen" and "Brightness adjustment: Automatic" as shown in FIG. 3(d). The accepted settings are stored in RAM 113 by CPU 111. In S608, the scan setting screen expansion unit 205 accepts that the detailed settings have been completed and instructs that the accepted settings be written to the scan setting information. The user can instruct the user to complete the detailed settings by operating the pointing device 117 or keyboard 118 to select the control 306. When writing to the scan setting information, it is also possible to write in items that the user has not selected, such as resolution.

[0046] In S609, the extension application 204 notifies the general-purpose scan software 202 that the detailed settings have been completed. In S610, the general-purpose scan software 202 notifies the scan application 201 that the detailed settings have been completed. In S611, the scan application 201 receives a scan instruction from the user. The user can issue a scan instruction by operating the pointing device 117 or keyboard 118 and selecting the control 303. In S612, the scan application 201 issues a scan instruction to the general-purpose scan software 202. In S613, the general-purpose scan software 202 issues a scan instruction to the extension application 204.

[0047] In S614, the extension application 204 creates a scan instruction command based on the scan setting information written in S608. If an item that is not selectable by the user, such as resolution, is not written in the scan setting information in S608, the extension application 204 may add it when creating the scan instruction command in S614. Alternatively, the extension application 204 may operate using the default values ​​of the scanning device 102 without adding it. In step S615, the extension application 204 sends a scan instruction command to the scanning device 102 to instruct the scanning device 102 to perform scanning. In S616, the scanning device 102 interprets the scan instruction command and executes the scan, and performs necessary image processing on the image data in accordance with the scan instruction. When the scan function is as shown in FIG. 5A and the scan settings of FIG. 3(c) are configured, contrast adjustment is performed on the image data obtained by scanning in the image processing unit 190, as will be described later. The reading unit 195 may be configured to perform the reading operation while adjusting the contrast. In either case, image data adjusted to the specified contrast is generated. That is, image data adjusted to the specified contrast is generated. As another example, when the scan function is as shown in FIG. 5B and the scan settings of FIG. 3(d) are configured, brightness adjustment is performed on the image data obtained by scanning in the image processing unit 190, as will be described later. The reading unit 195 may be configured to perform the reading operation while adjusting the brightness. In either case, image data adjusted to the specified brightness is generated. That is, image data adjusted to the specified brightness is generated. In S617, the scanning device 102 transmits the generated image data to the extension application 204.

[0048] In S619 , the general-purpose scan software 202 transmits the received image data to the scan application 201 . In S620, the scan application 201 receives image data. In S621, the scan application 201 displays the received image data and ends this process.

[0049] [Scan processing: Extended application] Here, a processing flow in which the extension application 204 executes the scan processing will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Each step is realized by the CPU 111 executing each unit read from the external storage device 114 to the RAM 113.

[0050] In S701, the extension application 204 receives a request to display detailed settings. In S702, the scan setting screen expansion unit 205 of the extension application 204 displays the detailed setting screen of FIG. 3(c) if the scan function is FIG. 5A (FIG. 3(d) if another FIG. 5B) on the display unit 119. This is because, as described in FIG. 4, the scan function expansion unit 206 has added a contrast adjustment setting in the case of FIG. 5A (a brightness adjustment setting in the case of another FIG. 5B) to the scan function information 203. The scan setting screen expansion unit 205 references the scan capability generated based on the added scan function information and displays the detailed setting screen of FIG. 3(c) in the case of FIG. 5A (FIG. 3(d) in the case of another FIG. 5B) on the display unit 119. In S703, the scan setting screen expansion unit 205 determines whether the user has set a function. If the user has set a function (Yes in S703), the CPU 111 proceeds to S704, and if the user has not set a function (No in S703), the CPU 111 proceeds to S705. In S704, detailed settings are accepted, and the accepted settings are stored in the RAM 113 by the CPU 111, and the process proceeds to S705. In S705, the scan setting screen expansion unit 205 determines whether the user has issued an instruction to end the settings. If the instruction to end the settings has been issued (Yes in S705), the CPU 111 accepts that the detailed settings have been completed, writes the accepted settings into the scan setting information, and proceeds to S706. If the instruction to end the settings has not been issued (No in S705), the process returns to S703 and determines again whether the user has issued any function settings.

[0051] In S706, the extension application 204 notifies the general-purpose scan software 202 that the detailed settings have been completed. In S707, the extension application 204 determines whether a scan instruction has been issued from the general-purpose scan software 202. If a scan instruction has been issued (Yes in S706), the CPU 111 proceeds to S708, and if not (No in S706), the CPU 111 returns to S707 and determines again whether a scan instruction has been issued from the general-purpose scan software 202. In S708, the extension application 204 creates a scan instruction command based on the scan setting information written in S705.

[0052] One way to create a scan instruction command in S708 is to extend the standard protocol command. The extension method involves writing a dedicated command in the extension field of the standard protocol command. Other methods include adding a proprietary command to the end of the standard protocol command, or having the extension application 204 overwrite the standard protocol command with its own command system. Furthermore, when issuing an instruction from the extension application 204, the instruction and communication may be configured to be performed using a vendor-specific protocol, regardless of the standard protocol. In S709, the extension application 204 sends a scan instruction command to the scanning device 102 to instruct the scanning device 102 to scan.

[0053] In S710, the extension application 204 determines whether all image data has been received from the scanning device 102. If all image data has been received (Yes in S710), the CPU 111 proceeds to S711; if not (No in S710), the CPU 111 returns to S710 and determines whether all image data has been transmitted from the scanning device 102. In step S711, the extension application 204 transmits the received image data to the general-purpose scan software 202, and the process ends.

[0054] [Scanning process: Scanning device] Next, the flow of the scan processing of the scan device 102 that receives a scan instruction from the extension application 204 will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Note that each step shown in the flowchart of Fig. 8 is realized by the CPU 191 executing a program stored in the ROM 192. In step S801 , the CPU 191 receives a scan instruction sent from the extension application 204 . In S802, the scan instruction command received in S801 is analyzed and converted into read settings that allow the scanning device 102 to perform reading processing. In this embodiment, in the case of Fig. 5A, the read settings are set to contrast adjustment: automatic and resolution: 300 x 300 dpi on the platen, and in the case of Fig. 5B, the read settings are set to brightness adjustment: automatic and resolution: 300 x 300 dpi on the platen. In S803, the CPU 191 determines the ASIC of the image processing unit 190 to be used to execute scanning in accordance with the reading settings converted in S802, and sets the ASIC.

[0055] In S804, the CPU 191 transmits a read instruction according to the read setting to the reading unit 195. In this embodiment, the CPU 191 transmits an instruction to perform reading on the platen. In S805 , the CPU 191 acquires image data from the reading unit 195 . In S806, the CPU 191 and the image processing unit 190 execute image processing on the received image data. In the case of FIG. 5A, the resolution is converted to 300×300 dpi and the contrast is adjusted. The contrast adjustment is performed by analyzing the image data using the ASIC set in S803 and automatically adjusting the contrast to an appropriate level. If the reading unit 195 is capable of reading at 300×300 dpi, the reading unit 195 may acquire image data at 300×300 dpi, and image processing may not be performed in S806. In this embodiment, the contrast adjustment is performed by the image processing unit 190, but the reading unit 195 may also be configured to perform the reading operation while adjusting the contrast. In another case shown in FIG. 5B, the resolution is converted to 300×300 dpi and brightness is adjusted. Brightness adjustment is performed by analyzing the image data using the ASIC set in S803 and automatically adjusting the brightness to an appropriate level. If the reading unit 195 is capable of reading at 300×300 dpi, the reading unit 195 may acquire image data at 300×300 dpi, and image processing may not be performed in S806. In this embodiment, brightness adjustment is performed by the image processing unit 190, but the reading unit 195 may also be configured to perform the reading operation while adjusting the brightness. In S807, the CPU 191 stores the image data in the external storage device 199. In S808, the CPU 191 determines whether scanning of all pages has been completed. If it is determined that scanning has not been completed (No in S808), the CPU 191 proceeds to S805 and executes scanning of the next page. If it is determined that scanning has been completed (Yes in S808), the CPU 191 proceeds to S809.

[0056] In S809, the CPU 191 and image processing unit 190 convert the image data saved in the previous S807 in accordance with the transmission format setting received in the previous S801. In this embodiment, the transmission format is not included in the scan instruction received from the extension application 204, so the image data is converted to the default JPEG of the scanning device 102. However, the transmission format to be converted is not limited to this, and any format that can be handled by the information processing device may be used. In S810, the converted image data is sent to the extension application 204, and this process ends.

[0057] As described above, in this embodiment, the scan setting screen extension unit 205 of the extension application 204 modifies the scan function information 203 based on the capability information of the general-purpose scan software 202, the extension application 204, and the scanning device 102. Furthermore, when a user requests a detailed setting screen, the setting screen is displayed based on the scanning capability generated from the scan function information 203, allowing the user to adjust the contrast or brightness. After that, when the scanning device 102 receives a scan instruction reflecting the contrast or brightness adjustment, it reads the document at the specified contrast or brightness. Through the above series of processes, the scanning device 102 can realize the contrast adjustment function or brightness adjustment function, making it possible to provide the contrast adjustment function or brightness adjustment function to the user. It is of course possible to realize both the contrast adjustment function and the brightness adjustment function. In addition, although the general-purpose scan software 202 has been configured to issue a scan instruction to the extension application 204, this is not limiting. For example, the scan application 201 may issue an instruction to the extension application 204, or a control for scan instructions may be placed on a detailed setting screen so that the user can issue an instruction directly to the extension application 204. As a method for transferring image data, the extension application 204 may directly transfer the image data to the scan application 201 without going through the general-purpose scan software 202, or the image data may be transferred from the scanning device 102 to the scan application 201. Alternatively, the received image data may be saved in the external storage device 114, and only information on the file path to the save destination may be transferred. Furthermore, in this embodiment, when there are multiple pieces of image data, all the image data are received and then transferred, but the transmitted image data may be transferred as needed.

[0058] [Embodiment 2] Hereinafter, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the first embodiment, the scanning device 102 first interprets scan setting information including contrast adjustment or brightness adjustment, and performs scanning processing with the contrast adjustment setting or brightness adjustment setting specified on the scanning device 102 side. However, some scanning devices may not be able to adjust contrast or brightness. In such cases, even if the extended application supports it and scan setting information including the specification of contrast or brightness adjustment can be generated, the scanning device cannot adjust the contrast or brightness. Therefore, in the second embodiment, first, it is determined whether contrast adjustment and brightness adjustment are possible based on the capability information of the scanning device. Next, if the scanning device is capable of contrast adjustment or brightness adjustment, scan setting information including the contrast adjustment setting and brightness adjustment setting specified by the user is generated and passed to the scanning device. On the other hand, if the scanning device is not capable of contrast adjustment or brightness adjustment, scan setting information without the contrast adjustment setting and brightness adjustment setting is generated and passed to the scanning device. Then, the contrast and brightness of the image data read by the scanning device are adjusted by an extension application. As a result, even if the scanning device is not capable of contrast adjustment or brightness adjustment, it is possible to provide the user with image data with the contrast and brightness adjusted to their desired level. In the following, only the differences from the first embodiment will be explained.

[0059] <If the scanning device does not have a contrast adjustment function> First, a case where the scanning device 102 does not support the contrast adjustment function will be described. The extension application 204 has a different configuration from the extension application 204 of the first embodiment. If the extension application 204 has a unit that performs contrast adjustment processing on image data, the scan function extension unit 206 adds a contrast adjustment specification to the scan function information 203. In other words, even if contrast adjustment is not included in the capability information acquired from the scan device 102, the contrast adjustment specification is added to the scan function information 203, and the contrast adjustment function can be used. The image data editing unit 207 performs contrast adjustment processing on image data received from the scan device 102 based on the contrast setting of the contrast adjustment specification function set by the user. Details will be described later.

[0060] [Editing process of scan function information: Scan function expansion unit] The editing process of scan function information by the scan function extension unit 206 in the second embodiment will be described using Figure 9A. Steps common to Figure 4 are given the same numbers, and explanations will be omitted, with differences being mainly described. Each step in Figure 9A is realized by the CPU 111 executing each unit read from the external storage device 114 to the RAM 113. After the repeated processing of S404 to S406 is completed, the scan function extension unit 206 proceeds to S901A. Here, the scan device 102 does not support the contrast adjustment function. Therefore, the contrast adjustment function is not added to the scan function information 203 after the processing of S404 to S406 is completed. Therefore, in steps S901A and S902A, a process is performed to add a function to the scan function information 203 in accordance with a module that is not included in the capability information returned from the scan device 102 but that the extension application 204 has. Specifically, in S901A, the scan function extension unit 206 refers to the capability information of the scanning device (Table 501A in FIG. 5A) and the scan function information 203, and determines whether the extension application 204 has a module that performs contrast adjustment processing. If it is determined that there is a module that performs contrast adjustment processing (Yes in S901A), the process proceeds to S902A, and if it is determined that there is no such module (No in S901A), the process ends. In the second embodiment, the image data editing unit 207 of the extension application 204 can perform contrast adjustment processing, so it is determined that there is a module that performs contrast adjustment processing in the extension application 204.

[0061] In S902A, the scan function expansion unit 206 adds a contrast adjustment function, and then ends this process. As described above, the scan function extension unit 206 first adds functions and options that are not supported by the general-purpose scan software 202, are supported by the scan device 102, and are supported by the extension application 204 to the scan function information 203. It then determines whether the extension application 204 is capable of contrast adjustment processing, and if contrast adjustment processing is possible, adds a contrast adjustment function to the scan function information. Even if this processing results in the scan device 102 not supporting the contrast adjustment function, the scan setting screen extension unit 205 can generate a display screen based on the scan function information 203, making it possible to display the detailed setting screen shown in FIG. 3(c).

[0062] <If your scanning device does not have a brightness adjustment function> First, a case where the scanning device 102 does not support the brightness adjustment function will be described. The extension application 204 has a different configuration from the extension application 204 of the first embodiment. If the extension application 204 includes a unit that performs brightness adjustment processing on image data, the scan function extension unit 206 adds a brightness adjustment specification to the scan function information 203. In other words, even if brightness adjustment is not included in the capability information acquired from the scan device 102, the brightness adjustment specification is added to the scan function information 203, and the brightness adjustment function can be used. The image data editing unit 207 performs brightness adjustment processing on image data received from the scan device 102 based on the brightness setting of the brightness adjustment specification function set by the user. Details will be described later.

[0063] [Editing process of scan function information: Scan function expansion unit] The editing process of scan function information by the scan function extension unit 206 in the second embodiment will be described using Figure 9B. Steps common to Figure 4 are given the same numbers, and explanations will be omitted, with differences being mainly described. Each step in Figure 9B is realized by the CPU 111 executing each unit read from the external storage device 114 to the RAM 113. After the repeated processing of S404 to S406 is completed, the scan function extension unit 206 proceeds to S901B. Here, the scan device 102 does not support the contrast adjustment function. Therefore, the contrast adjustment function is not added to the scan function information 203 after the processing of S404 to S406 is completed. Therefore, in steps S901B and S902B, a process is performed to add a function to the scan function information 203 in accordance with a module that is not included in the capability information returned from the scan device 102 but that the extension application 204 has. Specifically, in S901B, the scan function extension unit 206 refers to the capability information of the scanning device (Table 501B in FIG. 5B) and the scan function information 203, and determines whether the extension application 204 has a module that performs brightness adjustment processing. If it is determined that a module that performs brightness adjustment processing is present (Yes in S901B), the process proceeds to S902B, and if it is determined that such a module is not present (No in S901B), the process ends. In the second embodiment, the image data editing unit 207 can perform brightness adjustment processing in the extension application 204, so it is determined that the extension application 204 has a module that performs brightness adjustment processing.

[0064] In S902B, the scan function expansion unit 206 adds the brightness adjustment function, and then ends this process. As described above, the scan function extension unit 206 first adds functions and options that are not supported by the general-purpose scan software 202, are supported by the scan device 102, and are supported by the extension application 204 to the scan function information 203. Then, it determines whether the extension application 204 is capable of brightness adjustment processing, and if brightness adjustment processing is possible, it adds a brightness adjustment function to the scan function information. Even if this processing results in the scan device 102 not supporting the brightness adjustment function, the scan setting screen extension unit 205 can generate a display screen based on the scan function information 203, making it possible to display the detailed setting screen shown in FIG. 3(d).

[0065] Scanning process sequence Next, the sequence of the scan application 201, the general-purpose scan software 202, the extension application 204, and the scan device 102 after the scan application 201 accepts scan settings will be described with reference to Figure 10. Note that each step other than that of the scan device 102 in Figure 10 is performed by the CPU 111 reading the scan application 201, the general-purpose scan software 202, and the extension application 204 from the external storage device 114 to the RAM 113 and executing them. Each step of the scan device 102 in Figure 10 is realized by the CPU 191 of the scan device 102 reading a program stored in the ROM 192 or the external storage device 199 to the RAM 193 and executing it. Hereinafter, steps common to those in Figure 6 will be assigned the same numbers, and explanations will be omitted, with differences being mainly described.

[0066] In step S1001, the extension application 204 creates a scan instruction command. The detailed operation at this time will be explained with reference to the flowchart in FIG. In S1002, the image data editing unit 207 adjusts the contrast of the received image data in the case of Fig. 5A, and adjusts the brightness in the case of Fig. 5B. In this embodiment, the image data is automatically adjusted to the optimum contrast and brightness. 11A and 11B, the flow of the scan process performed by the extension application 204 will be described. Steps common to those in FIG. 7 are given the same numbers, and explanations will be omitted, with differences being mainly described. Each step is realized by the CPU 111 executing each unit read from the external storage device 114 to the RAM 113.

[0067] [Scan processing: Extended application] (Contrast adjustment: Figure 11A) In S1101A, the extension application 204 acquires the scan function information of the scan device 102 from the shared information 208. If the scan function information of the scan device 102 is not available, the scan function extension unit 206 may request the scan function information from the scan device 102 and store it in the shared information 208. The extension application 204 determines whether any function settings not supported by the scanning device 102 are present, based on the acquired scan function information and setting information. If it is determined that a function not supported by the scanning device 102 is present (Yes in S1101A), the CPU 111 proceeds to S1102A. In the second embodiment, an image adjustment function not supported by the scanning device 102 (a contrast adjustment function in the case of FIG. 5A) is present, so the CPU 111 proceeds to S1102A. If it is determined that a function not supported by the scanning device 102 is not present (No in S1101A), the CPU 111 proceeds to S708. Next, in S1102A, a scan instruction command is created by excluding function settings that are not supported by the extension application 204. In this embodiment, the contrast adjustment function or brightness adjustment function is not included in the scan instruction command.

[0068] Next, the next process when it is determined in S710 that the previous image data has been received will be described. In S1103A, the extension application 204 determines from the setting information whether there are any settings that require editing in the image data editing unit 207. If it is determined that there are any settings that require editing (Yes in S1103A), the CPU 111 proceeds to S1104A. In the second embodiment, an image adjustment function that cannot be executed by the scanning device 102 (contrast adjustment function in the case of FIG. 5A) is set, so the processing proceeds to S1104. On the other hand, if it is determined that there are no settings that require editing (No in S1103A), the CPU 111 proceeds to S711. In S1104A, the image data editing unit 207 automatically adjusts the contrast of the received image data to an optimum value based on the contrast adjustment function setting set in S703, and the process proceeds to S711.

[0069] (Brightness adjustment: Figure 11B) In S1101B, the extension application 204 acquires the scan function information of the scan device 102 from the shared information 208. If the scan function information of the scan device 102 is not available, the scan function extension unit 206 may request the scan function information from the scan device 102 and store it in the shared information 208. The extension application 204 determines whether any function settings not supported by the scanning device 102 are present, based on the acquired scan function information and setting information. If it is determined that a function not supported by the scanning device 102 is present (Yes in S1101B), the CPU 111 proceeds to S1102. In the second embodiment, an image adjustment function not supported by the scanning device 102 (brightness adjustment function in the case of FIG. 5B) is present, and therefore the CPU 111 proceeds to S1102B. If it is determined that no function not supported by the scanning device 102 is present (No in S1101B), the CPU 111 proceeds to S708. Next, in S1102B, a scan instruction command is created by excluding function settings that are not supported by the extension application 204. In this embodiment, the contrast adjustment function or brightness adjustment function is not included in the scan instruction command.

[0070] Next, the next process when it is determined in S710 that the previous image data has been received will be described. In S1103B, the extension application 204 determines from the setting information whether there are any settings that require editing in the image data editing unit 207. If it is determined that there are any settings that require editing (Yes in S1103B), the CPU 111 proceeds to S1104. In the second embodiment, an image adjustment function that cannot be executed by the scanning device 102 (brightness adjustment function in the case of FIG. 5B) is set, so the processing proceeds to S1104B. On the other hand, if it is determined that there are no settings that require editing (No in S1103), the CPU 111 proceeds to S711. In S1104B, the image data editing unit 207 automatically adjusts the contrast of the received image data to an optimum value based on the contrast adjustment function setting set in S703, and the process proceeds to S711.

[0071] In this embodiment, function settings that are not supported by the scanning device are excluded from the scan instruction command. However, even if the function is described in the scan instruction command, the scanning device cannot interpret the unsupported command and cannot execute the function. Therefore, unsupported functions may be described as they are in the scan instruction command without being excluded. As described above, in the second embodiment, even if the scanning device does not support the image adjustment function (contrast adjustment function or brightness adjustment function), it is possible to provide the image adjustment function to the user.

[0072] [Embodiment 3] Hereinafter, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the first and second embodiments, the extension application 204 and the scanning device 102 communicate with each other. In the third embodiment, a configuration will be described in which the general-purpose scan software 202 communicates with the scan device 102, and the extension application 204 only performs scan command extension and image editing. In the following, only the differences from the first and second embodiments will be explained.

[0073] Scanning sequence (command extension) 12, the sequence of operations of the scan application 201, the general-purpose scan software 202, the extension application 204, and the scan device 102 after the scan application 201 accepts scan settings will be described. Steps common to those in FIG. 6 are given the same numbers, and explanations will be omitted. Differences will be mainly described. Note that each step other than that of the scan device 102 in FIG. 12 is performed by the CPU 111 reading the scan application 201, the general-purpose scan software 202, and the extension application 204 from the external storage device 114 to the RAM 113 and executing them. Each step of the scan device 102 in FIG. 12 is realized by the CPU 191 of the scan device 102 reading a program stored in the ROM 192 or the external storage device 199 to the RAM 193 and executing it.

[0074] In S1201, the general-purpose scan software 202 creates a scan instruction command. At this time, functions that the general-purpose scan software 202 does not support are not described in the scan instruction command. In S1202, the general-purpose scan software 202 passes the created scan instruction command to the extension application 204. In S1203, the extension application 204 extends the received scan instruction command by adding instructions for functions not supported by the general-purpose scan software 202 or by changing existing instructions. In this embodiment, the scan instruction command created by the general-purpose scan software 202 in S1201 does not include image adjustment settings (contrast adjustment settings or brightness adjustment settings). Therefore, image adjustment settings (contrast adjustment settings or brightness adjustment settings) are added. In S1204, the extension application 204 passes the extended scan instruction command to the general-purpose scan software 202.

[0075] In S1205, the general-purpose scan software 202 transmits a scan instruction command to the scan device 102 to instruct the device to scan. In S1206, the general-purpose scanning software 202 receives image data from the scanning device 102.

[0076] Scanning process sequence (image editing) Next, a sequence for performing image editing using an extension application when the general-purpose scan software 202 and the scan device 102 communicate with each other will be described using Figure 13. Steps common to those in Figure 12 are given the same numbers, and explanations will be omitted; differences will be mainly described. Note that each step other than that for the scan device 102 in Figure 13 is performed by the CPU 111 reading the scan application 201, general-purpose scan software 202, and extension application 204 from the external storage device 114 to the RAM 113 and executing them. Each step for the scan device 102 in Figure 13 is realized by the CPU 191 of the scan device 102 reading a program stored in the ROM 192 or the external storage device 199 to the RAM 193 and executing it.

[0077] In S1301, the general-purpose scan software 202 transmits the received image data to the extension application 204. In S1002, the extension application 204 performs image editing. In this embodiment, image adjustment (contrast adjustment and brightness adjustment) is performed on the received image data based on the image adjustment settings (contrast adjustment and brightness adjustment) set in the same process as S1104 in Fig. 11 . In S1302, the extension application 204 transmits the edited image data to the general-purpose scan software 202. As described above, in this embodiment, the extension application 204 extends the image adjustment (contrast adjustment, brightness adjustment) specification command, thereby enabling the scanning device 102 to realize the image adjustment function (contrast adjustment function, brightness adjustment function), and making it possible to provide the image adjustment function (contrast adjustment function, brightness adjustment function) to the user.

[0078] [Embodiment 4] A fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described below. In the first to third embodiments, the commands used in the standard protocol are extended to communicate with the scanning device 102. In the fourth embodiment, a configuration will be described in which the commands of the standard protocol are not extended, and functions supported only by the extension application 204 are communicated with the scanning device 102 using separate commands. In the following, only the differences from the above-described embodiment will be described.

[0079] Scan processing sequence (sending separate commands) 14, the sequence of the scan application 201, the general-purpose scan software 202, the extension application 204, and the scan device 102 after the scan application 201 accepts scan settings will be described. Note that each step other than that of the scan device 102 in FIG. 14 is performed by the CPU 111 reading the scan application 201, the general-purpose scan software 202, and the extension application 204 from the external storage device 114 to the RAM 113 and executing them. Each step of the scan device 102 in FIG. 14 is realized by the CPU 191 of the scan device 102 reading a program stored in the ROM 192 or the external storage device 199 to the RAM 193 and executing it. Steps common to those in FIG. 6 are assigned the same numbers, and explanations thereof will be omitted; differences will be mainly described.

[0080] In S1401, the general-purpose scan software 202 creates a standard scan instruction command in accordance with the standard protocol. At this time, functions that are not supported by the standard protocol are not described in the scan instruction command. In S1402, the extension application 204 generates an extension scan instruction command for a function that is supported only by the extension application 204. In step S1403, the extension application 204 transmits a standard scan instruction command to the scanning device 102 to instruct the scanning device 102 to perform a scan. In S1404, the extension application 204 transmits an extended scan instruction command to the scanning device 102 to instruct the scanning device 102 to perform scanning. In S1405, the scanning device 102 interprets the received standard scan instruction command and extended scan instruction command, respectively, and executes the scan process.

[0081] [Scan processing: Extended application] Here, the flow of the scan processing performed by the extension application 204 will be described with reference to Fig. 15. Each step is realized by the CPU 111 executing each unit read from the external storage device 114 to the RAM 113. Steps common to Fig. 7 are given the same numbers, and explanations will be omitted, with differences being mainly described. The process after the scan instruction is received in S707 will be described below. In S1501, the extension application 204 creates a standard scan instruction command in accordance with the standard protocol. In S1502, the extension application 204 creates an extension scan instruction command for a function not supported by the standard protocol. In step S1503, the extension application 204 transmits the standard scan instruction command created in step S1501 to the scanning device 102. In step S1504, the extension application 204 transmits the extended scan instruction command created in step S1502 to the scanning device 102. As described above, in the fourth embodiment, a separate scan instruction command is sent from the extended application for functions not supported by the standard protocol, which makes it possible to provide the user with image adjustment functions (such as contrast adjustment and brightness adjustment functions).

[0082] [Embodiment 5] Hereinafter, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the fifth embodiment, a method will be described in which a preview image is displayed and the user can check what kind of image data can be obtained by changing the setting values ​​of image adjustments (contrast adjustment and brightness adjustment) while performing a scan. Below, with reference to Figures 16A to 16D (hereinafter collectively referred to as "Figure 16"), only the differences from the above-mentioned embodiments will be described.

[0083] (Contrast adjustment) 16(a) shows an example of a list of scan function information acquired from the scan device 102 in this embodiment as table 1601. As shown in table 1601, information indicating that a preview function is supported (1603) has been acquired from the scan device 102. As shown in table 1602 in FIG. 16(b), it is assumed that the extension application also supports preview (1604). Figure 16(c) shows an example of a detailed settings screen where the preview function can be used. Figure 16(c) displays an area 1605 that displays a preview image and a control 1606 that instructs the user to perform a preview. When contrast adjustment is set to manual, contrast adjustment becomes possible by adjusting the slide bar, and an image with adjusted contrast is displayed in the preview area 1605 by pressing the preview execution control 1606. (Brightness adjustment) 16(d) shows an example of a list of scan function information acquired from the scan device 102 in this embodiment as table 1601. As shown in table 1601, information indicating that a preview function is supported (1603) has been acquired from the scan device 102. As shown in table 1602 in FIG. 16(e), it is assumed that the extension application also supports preview (1604). Figure 16(f) shows an example of a detailed settings screen where the preview function can be used. Figure 16(c) shows an area 1605 that displays a preview image and a control 1606 that instructs the user to perform a preview. When contrast adjustment is set to manual, contrast adjustment becomes possible by adjusting the slide bar, and an image with adjusted contrast is displayed in the preview area 1605 by pressing the preview execution control 1606.

[0084] Scanning process sequence (preview) 17 will be used to explain the sequence of the scan application 201, the general-purpose scan software 202, the extension application 204, and the scan device 102 after the scan settings are accepted. Note that each step in FIG. 17 other than that of the scan device 102 is performed by the CPU 111 reading the scan application 201, the general-purpose scan software 202, and the extension application 204 from the external storage device 114 to the RAM 113 and executing them. Each step of the scan device 102 in FIG. 17 is realized by the CPU 191 of the scan device 102 reading a program stored in the ROM 192 or the external storage device 199 to the RAM 193 and executing it. Steps common to those in FIG. 6 are given the same numbers, and explanations will be omitted; differences will be mainly explained.

[0085] In step S1701, the extension application 204 receives a preview display request. The user can select a control 1606 by operating the pointing device 117 or the keyboard 118 to instruct the preview display. In S1702, the extension application 204 sends a preview instruction command to the scanning device 102 to issue a scan instruction for preview. The scan instruction command is created based on the settings accepted at this point. In this embodiment, the scan instruction command is created to include the accepted contrast adjustment. In step S1703, the scanning device 102 interprets the received preview command and executes scanning. In this embodiment, scanning is executed after the instructed image adjustment (contrast adjustment or brightness adjustment) has been performed. Next, in step S1704, the scanning device 102 transmits the generated image data to the extension application 204. In S1705, the extension application 204 displays the received preview image.

[0086] [Scan processing: Extended application] Here, a flow in which the extension application 204 executes the scan process will be described with reference to Fig. 18. Each step is realized by the CPU 111 executing each unit read from the external storage device 114 to the RAM 113. Steps common to Fig. 7 are given the same numbers, and explanations will be omitted, with differences being mainly described.

[0087] In S1801, the scan setting screen expansion unit 205 determines whether a preview display request has been made by the user. If a preview display request has been made (Yes in S1801), the process proceeds to S1802; if not (No in S1801), the process proceeds to S705. In S1802, the extension application 204 creates a preview image instruction command based on the setting information stored in S704. As with the scan command, the method for creating the preview image command in S1802 is to first extend the standard protocol command. One extension method is to write a dedicated command in the extension field of the standard protocol command. Other methods include adding a proprietary command to the end of the standard protocol command, or having the extension application 204 overwrite the standard protocol command with its own command system. Furthermore, when issuing an instruction from the extension application 204, instructions and communications may be configured to be performed using a vendor-specific protocol, regardless of the standard protocol.

[0088] In step S1803, the extension application 204 sends a preview image instruction command to the scanning device 102 to instruct it to scan. In S1804, the extended application 204 determines whether all preview image data has been received from the scanning device 102. If all preview image data has been received (Yes in S1804), the process proceeds to S1805; if not (No in S1804), the process returns to S1804 and it is determined whether preview image data has been received from the scanning device 102. In S1805, the extension application 204 displays the received preview image data and advances the process to S705.

[0089] In this embodiment, the preview image is generated using the same process as the actual image data, but it may be configured to generate image data specifically for preview purposes. For example, to speed up the preview display, there are methods such as lowering the resolution or increasing the compression rate to reduce the image size. The preview image may be discarded after the completion of the detailed settings in S608 or when the detailed settings are canceled, or may be retained until the final image data is obtained for the purpose of redisplaying it when the detailed settings are accepted again.

[0090] Next, a method for updating the preview image by the image data editing unit 207 on the extension application 204 side when a setting change occurs after the preview image is displayed will be described, if image processing is possible in the image data editing unit 207. In this case, there is no need to perform a scan again by the scanning device 102, and although the image data differs from the actual final image data, it is possible to easily and quickly provide the user with an image of the final product. For example, in the case of contrast adjustment as in this embodiment, it is possible to visualize how the image will change by changing the setting value.

[0091] [Preview image update process: Extended application] A flow in which the extended application 204 updates a preview image will be described using Figure 19. Note that each step is realized by the CPU 111 executing each unit read from the external storage device 114 to the RAM 113. Steps common to Figure 18 are given the same numbers, and explanations will be omitted; differences will be mainly described.

[0092] In S1901, the extension application 204 determines whether the preview image has already been displayed. If it has already been displayed (No in S1901), the process proceeds to S1801, and if it has not already been displayed (Yes in S1901), the process proceeds to S1902. In S1902, the extension application 204 determines whether the setting change function accepted in S703 can be processed by the image data editing unit 207. If it can be processed by the image data editing unit (Yes in S1902), the process proceeds to S1903. If it can be processed by the image data editing unit (No in S1902), the process proceeds to S1801. In this embodiment, contrast adjustment can be processed by the image data editing unit 207, so the process proceeds to S1903. In S1903, the image data editing unit 207 performs image processing on the preview image. In S1904, the extension application 204 displays the preview image data that has undergone image processing.

[0093] [Embodiment 6] In the fifth embodiment, an example has been described in which an image obtained by preview scanning using a scanning device is displayed. In the sixth embodiment, a configuration will be described in which, after a preview image is displayed, if the user decides that he or she wants to use the previewed image data as is, the preview image is actually passed to the scan application 201 without being scanned again. (Advanced settings screen) 20A and 20B show examples of advanced settings screens (contrast adjustment, brightness adjustment) that allow the preview image to be saved. The advanced settings screen displays a control 2001 that instructs the user to save the preview image. When the control 2001 is pressed, the preview image is saved. Scanning process sequence (using preview image data) 21, the sequence of the scan application 201, general-purpose scan software 202, extension application 204, and scan device 102 when saving a preview will be described. Note that each step other than that of the scan device 102 in FIG. 21 is performed by the CPU 111 reading the scan application 201, general-purpose scan software 202, and extension application 204 from the external storage device 114 to the RAM 113 and executing them. Each step of the scan device 102 in FIG. 21 is realized by the CPU 191 of the scan device 102 reading a program stored in the ROM 192 or the external storage device 199 to the RAM 193 and executing it. Steps common to those in FIG. 17 are assigned the same numbers, and their explanation will be omitted; differences will be mainly described.

[0094] In S1704, the scanned image is accepted. In S2101, the extension application 204 accepts a request to save a preview image. The user can instruct the user to save the preview image by operating the pointing device 117 or the keyboard 118 and selecting the control 1606. When the user is instructed to save the image, the extension application 204 passes the image data to the general-purpose scan software 202. The general-purpose scan software 202 then passes the image data to the scan application 201, allowing the scan application 201 to handle the image data.

[0095] [Scan processing: Extended application] The flow of scan processing performed by the extension application 204 will be described with reference to Fig. 22. Each step is realized by the CPU 111 executing each unit read from the external storage device 114 to the RAM 113. Steps common to Fig. 18 are given the same numbers, and explanations will be omitted; differences will be mainly described.

[0096] In S2201, the scan setting screen expansion unit 205 determines whether there is a request to save a preview image from the user. If there is a request to save a preview image (Yes in S2201), the process proceeds to S711, and if there is no request to save a preview image (No in S2201), the process proceeds to S705. In S711, the preview image is sent to the general-purpose scan software 202.

[0097] Next, a configuration will be described in which the preview image is displayed using image data that has been internally saved in advance by the extension application 204, rather than using actual document data. By using image data that has been saved in advance, although it differs from actual image data, it is possible to provide the user with an image of the finished product easily and quickly without the need for scanning. For example, in the case of image adjustments (contrast adjustment or brightness adjustment) as in this embodiment, it is possible to visualize how the image will change by changing the setting values. Scanning process sequence (using saved image data) 23 will be used to explain the sequence of the scan application 201, general-purpose scan software 202, extension application 204, and scan device 102 when displaying a pre-saved preview image. Note that each step other than that of the scan device 102 in FIG. 23 is performed by the CPU 111 reading the scan application 201, general-purpose scan software 202, and extension application 204 from the external storage device 114 to the RAM 113 and executing them. Each step of the scan device 102 in FIG. 23 is realized by the CPU 191 of the scan device 102 reading a program stored in the ROM 192 or the external storage device 199 to the RAM 193 and executing it. Steps common to those in FIG. 17 are given the same numbers, and explanations will be omitted; differences will be mainly explained.

[0098] In S2301, the extension application 204 displays a preview image corresponding to the accepted settings. The preview image displayed at this time may be a configuration in which a plurality of preview images corresponding to various settings are separately saved and an image corresponding to the settings is displayed from among them, or a configuration in which image processing is performed each time on specific preview image data and then displayed.

[0099] [Scan processing (preview image update): Extended application] A flow in which the extension application 204 updates a preview image will be described using Fig. 24. Each step is realized by the CPU 111 executing each unit read from the external storage device 114 to the RAM 113. Steps common to Fig. 18 are given the same numbers, and explanations will be omitted, with differences being mainly described. In S2401, the extension application 204 determines whether a preview display has already been displayed. If a preview display has already been displayed (Yes in S2401), the process proceeds to S2402; if not (No in S2401), the process proceeds to S1801. In S2402, the extension application 204 updates and displays the preview image according to the settings. If it is determined in S1801 that a preview display request has been made by the user (Yes in S1801), the process proceeds to S2403. In S2403, the extension application 204 displays a preview image according to the settings.

[0100] As described above, in the sixth embodiment, a preview image saved by an extension application is reused and displayed. Then, by editing the preview image according to the settings, it becomes possible to provide an image adjustment function (contrast adjustment function and brightness adjustment function) in a form that allows the user to easily imagine the final product.

[0101] (Other Examples) The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program.The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions. The disclosure of this embodiment includes the following programs, methods, and configurations. (Program 1) A program that supports the functions of general-purpose scan software that can be used in common with image processing devices provided by multiple manufacturers, To the computer displaying a display screen for accepting settings for contrast adjustment of an image read by the image processing device; a program for outputting a reading instruction to cause the image processing device to execute scanning in accordance with the setting received on the display screen; (Program 2) A program that supports the functions of general-purpose scan software that can be used in common with image processing devices provided by multiple manufacturers, To the computer displaying a display screen for accepting settings for brightness adjustment of an image to be read by the image processing device; a program for outputting a reading instruction to cause the image processing device to execute scanning in accordance with the setting received on the display screen; (Program 3) The program according to the program 1 or 2, wherein the display screen that accepts the settings changes the items to be displayed based on the scanning capabilities of the image processing device. (Program 4) The program according to program 3, wherein the settings include a setting for automatically adjusting the image to be read. (Program 5) The program according to program 3, wherein the settings are for allowing a user to manually adjust the image to be read. (Program 6) determining whether the received contrast adjustment setting can be implemented by the image processing device; A program described in any of programs 1 to 5, which, when it is determined that the accepted settings cannot be implemented by the image processing device, performs image contrast adjustment processing on scanned and acquired image data based on the accepted settings. (Program 7) determining whether the received contrast adjustment setting can be implemented by the reading device; The program according to program 6, for causing the image processing device to output an instruction command that does not include an instruction for contrast adjustment when it is determined that the accepted setting cannot be implemented by the image processing device. (Program 8) determining whether the received brightness adjustment setting can be implemented by the image processing device; A program described in any one of programs 1 to 5, which, when it is determined that the accepted settings cannot be implemented by the image processing device, performs image brightness adjustment processing on scanned and acquired image data based on the accepted settings. (Program 9) determining whether the received brightness adjustment setting can be implemented by the reading device; The program according to program 8, for causing the image processing device to output an instruction command that does not include an instruction for brightness adjustment when it is determined that the accepted setting cannot be implemented by the image processing device. (Program 10) 10. The program according to any one of programs 1 to 9, for outputting the read instruction to the image processing device via the general-purpose scan software. (Program 11) When issuing a read instruction to the image processing device that executes the scan, 11. The program according to any one of programs 1 to 10, for transmitting an instruction command that is an extension of an instruction command of a standard protocol. (Program 12) The program according to any one of programs 1 to 10, for transmitting a unique instruction command instead of a standard protocol instruction command when issuing a read instruction to the image processing device that executes the scan. (Program 13) The program according to any one of programs 1 to 10, for transmitting an extended instruction command in addition to an instruction command of a standard protocol when issuing a read instruction to the image processing device that executes the scan. (Program 14) A program according to any one of programs 1 to 13, which outputs a reading instruction to the image processing device based on the received setting, and displays the image read by the image processing device on the display screen as a preview image. (Program 15) The program according to program 14, wherein when the image processing device is caused to output a reading instruction, an instruction command for a preview image is transmitted. (Program 16) The program according to program 14 or 15, wherein the preview image is saved or accepted on the display screen. (Program 17) The program according to any one of programs 14 to 16, which displays, on the display screen, the image data saved based on the settings accepted on the display screen as a preview image. (Program 18) The program according to program 17, which updates the preview image based on the accepted setting. (Method 1) A method for controlling an information processing apparatus having general-purpose scanning software that can be commonly used in image processing apparatuses provided by a plurality of manufacturers and an application that supports the functions of the general-purpose scanning software, comprising: a display step of displaying a display screen for accepting settings for contrast adjustment of an image read by the image processing device; an output step of outputting a reading instruction to cause the image processing device to execute scanning in accordance with the setting received on the display screen; A control method comprising: (Method 2) A method for controlling an information processing apparatus having general-purpose scanning software that can be commonly used in image processing apparatuses provided by a plurality of manufacturers and an application that supports the functions of the general-purpose scanning software, comprising: a display step of displaying a display screen for accepting settings for brightness adjustment of an image read by the image processing device; an output step of outputting a reading instruction to cause the image processing device to execute scanning in accordance with the setting received on the display screen; A control method comprising: (Configuration 1) An information processing device having general-purpose scanning software that can be used in common with image processing devices provided by a plurality of manufacturers and an application that supports the functions of the general-purpose scanning software, a display means for displaying a display screen for accepting settings for contrast adjustment of an image read by the image processing device; an output means for outputting a reading instruction for causing the image processing device to execute scanning in accordance with the setting received on the display screen; An information processing device comprising: (Configuration 2) An information processing device having general-purpose scanning software that can be used in common with image processing devices provided by a plurality of manufacturers and an application that supports the functions of the general-purpose scanning software, a display means for displaying a display screen for accepting settings for brightness adjustment of an image read by the image processing device; an output means for outputting a reading instruction for causing the image processing device to execute scanning in accordance with the setting received on the display screen; An information processing device comprising: [Explanation of symbols]

[0102] 102 Scanning Device 111,191 CPU 112,192 ROM 113,193 RAM 119 Display section 201 Scan Application 202 General-purpose scanning software 203 Scan Function Information 204 Extended Applications 102 Scanning Device

Claims

1. A program that supports the functions of general-purpose scan software that can be used in common with image processing devices provided by multiple manufacturers, To the computer displaying a display screen for accepting settings for contrast adjustment of an image read by the image processing device; a program for outputting a reading instruction to cause the image processing device to execute scanning in accordance with the setting received on the display screen;

2. A program that supports the functions of general-purpose scan software that can be used in common with image processing devices provided by multiple manufacturers, To the computer displaying a display screen for accepting settings for brightness adjustment of an image to be read by the image processing device; a program for outputting a reading instruction to cause the image processing device to execute scanning in accordance with the setting received on the display screen;

3. 3. The program according to claim 1, wherein the display screen for accepting the settings changes the items to be displayed based on the scanning capability of the image processing device.

4. 4. The program according to claim 3, wherein the settings include a setting for automatically adjusting the image to be read.

5. 4. The program according to claim 3, wherein the settings include settings that allow a user to manually adjust the image to be read.

6. determining whether the received contrast adjustment setting can be implemented by the image processing device; The program according to claim 1, which, when it is determined that the accepted settings cannot be implemented by the image processing device, performs image contrast adjustment processing on scanned and acquired image data based on the accepted settings.

7. determining whether the received contrast adjustment setting can be implemented by the reading device; 7. The program according to claim 6, wherein, when it is determined that the accepted setting cannot be implemented by the image processing device, the program causes the image processing device to output an instruction command that does not include an instruction for contrast adjustment.

8. determining whether the received brightness adjustment setting can be implemented by the image processing device; The program according to claim 2, which, when it is determined that the accepted settings cannot be implemented by the image processing device, executes image brightness adjustment processing on the scanned and acquired image data based on the accepted settings.

9. determining whether the received brightness adjustment setting can be implemented by the reading device; 9. The program according to claim 8, wherein, when it is determined that the accepted setting cannot be implemented by the image processing device, the program causes the image processing device to output an instruction command that does not include an instruction for brightness adjustment.

10. 3. The program according to claim 1, wherein the program causes the image processing device to output the read instruction via the general-purpose scan software.

11. When issuing a read instruction to the image processing device that executes the scan, 3. The program according to claim 1, for transmitting an instruction command that is an extension of an instruction command of a standard protocol.

12. 3. The program according to claim 1, wherein when issuing a read instruction to the image processing apparatus that executes the scan, the program transmits a unique instruction command instead of a standard protocol instruction command.

13. 3. The program according to claim 1, wherein when issuing a read instruction to the image processing apparatus that executes the scan, the program transmits an extended instruction command in addition to an instruction command of a standard protocol.

14. 3. The program according to claim 1, further comprising: a read instruction output to the image processing device based on the received setting; and an image read by the image processing device being displayed on the display screen as a preview image.

15. 15. The program according to claim 14, wherein a command for displaying a preview image is transmitted when the image processing device is caused to output a reading instruction.

16. The program according to claim 14 , wherein the program selects whether the preview image is to be saved or accepted on the display screen.

17. 3. The program according to claim 1, wherein the image data stored based on the settings received on the display screen is displayed on the display screen as a preview image.

18. The program according to claim 17 , wherein the preview image is updated based on the accepted settings.

19. A method for controlling an information processing apparatus having general-purpose scanning software that can be commonly used in image processing apparatuses provided by a plurality of manufacturers and an application that supports the functions of the general-purpose scanning software, comprising: a display step of displaying a display screen for accepting settings for contrast adjustment of an image read by the image processing device; an output step of outputting a reading instruction to cause the image processing device to execute scanning in accordance with the setting received on the display screen; A control method comprising:

20. A method for controlling an information processing apparatus having general-purpose scanning software that can be commonly used in image processing apparatuses provided by a plurality of manufacturers and an application that supports the functions of the general-purpose scanning software, comprising: a display step of displaying a display screen for accepting settings for brightness adjustment of an image read by the image processing device; an output step of outputting a reading instruction to cause the image processing device to execute scanning in accordance with the setting received on the display screen; A control method comprising:

21. An information processing device having general-purpose scanning software that can be used in common with image processing devices provided by a plurality of manufacturers and an application that supports the functions of the general-purpose scanning software, a display means for displaying a display screen for accepting settings for contrast adjustment of an image read by the image processing device; an output means for outputting a reading instruction for causing the image processing device to execute scanning in accordance with the setting received on the display screen; An information processing device comprising:

22. An information processing device having general-purpose scanning software that can be used in common with image processing devices provided by a plurality of manufacturers and an application that supports the functions of the general-purpose scanning software, a display means for displaying a display screen for accepting settings for brightness adjustment of an image read by the image processing device; an output means for outputting a reading instruction for causing the image processing device to execute scanning in accordance with the setting received on the display screen; An information processing device comprising:

Images