Image processing apparatus, control method, and program

Abstract

To notify a user of appropriate information in an image processing apparatus.SOLUTION: An image processing apparatus having at least a predetermined function comprises: a first screen capable of displaying sheet information set as a sheet to be used when a predetermined function is executed; and display control means of displaying a second screen displayed when an area for displaying the second screen including setting information related to the predetermined function is selected in the first screen. When the predetermined function is not executable on the sheet based on the sheet information, the display control means displays identification information indicating that the predetermined function is not executable on the sheet based on the sheet information on the first screen.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] In an image processing apparatus, if no paper is fed (there is no paper) into the paper feed slot (paper feed position), it may not be possible to execute a function that uses paper. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2019-73380 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Patent Document 1 discloses that in a printing device with multiple paper feeders, a warning display indicating that there is no paper in the paper feeder is switched based on the characteristics of each paper feeder. However, in an image processing device, even if paper is fed into the paper feeder, there are cases where a predetermined function cannot be executed with the fed paper.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to notify a user of appropriate information in an image processing device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An image processing device having at least a predetermined function, comprising: a first screen capable of displaying paper information set as the paper to be used when the predetermined function is executed; and a display control means for displaying the second screen when an area for displaying a second screen containing setting information related to the predetermined function is selected on the first screen, wherein, when the predetermined function cannot be executed on paper based on the paper information, the display control means displays identification information on the first screen indicating that the predetermined function cannot be executed on paper based on the paper information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to realize an image processing device that notifies a user of appropriate information. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of an image processing device. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a home screen displayed on a display unit of the image processing apparatus. [Figure 3] 10A to 10C are diagrams showing screen transitions from each scene on the home screen to a copy setting screen. [Figure 4] 10 is a table showing whether each setting value can be set for each copy function. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a screen including identification information indicating a setting conflict. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing a display process for displaying a screen including identification information indicating a setting conflict; [Figure 7] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing information about sheets fed into a paper feed tray or cassette, and a table showing whether each setting value can be set in the division copy function. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a screen including identification information indicating that a paper feed position change or paper replacement is required. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing a display process for displaying a screen including identification information indicating a setting conflict; [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing a display process for displaying a screen including identification information indicating a setting conflict; [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a screen including identification information indicating a setting conflict. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the present disclosure according to the claims, and not all of the combinations of features described in the embodiments are necessarily essential to the solutions of the present disclosure. In addition, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used to designate the same or similar components, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0010] (First embodiment) FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an image processing apparatus. In FIG. 1, the image processing apparatus 100 includes a CPU 101, a ROM 102, a RAM 103, a communication unit 104, a printing unit 105, a paper feed unit 106, an operation unit 107, a display unit 108, and a reading unit 109. The CPU 101 is a system control unit that controls the entire image processing apparatus 100. The ROM 102 is a non-volatile memory that stores fixed data such as control programs executed by the CPU 101, data tables, and an embedded operating system (OS). The RAM 103 stores program control variables and the like. The CPU 101 can implement various functions executable by the image processing apparatus 100 by loading the programs stored in the ROM 102 into the RAM 103. The communication unit 104 controls communication between the image processing apparatus 100 and a network and exchanges various data. The printing unit 105 records data read by the reading unit 109 on recording paper set in the paper feed unit 106. The paper feed unit 106 feeds various sizes and types of paper. The operation unit 107 can accept operations such as pressing buttons from the user. The operation unit 107 may include, for example, keys (hard keys), or may be integrated with the display unit 108 as a touch panel including soft keys. The display unit 108 displays various information related to the image processing device. The CPU 101 controls the display of information related to the image processing device 100 on the display unit 108. The reading unit 109 is a CCD or CIS color scanner that reads silver halide photographs, magazines, etc. as image data (digital data). In this embodiment, the paper feed unit 106 is described as being composed of a rear tray and a cassette device, but the paper feed unit may include one or more components.

[0011] The image processing device is, for example, a printing device (printer). A printing device refers to a device that has a recording device with a printing function that records information on a print medium using a recording material. For example, the image processing device may also be a multi-function peripheral (MFP) that further includes a reading device that reads an image on an original and functions as a copier, or may be a multi-function peripheral that adds other functions. Furthermore, for example, various devices such as a personal computer (PC), a smartphone, or a digital camera may be applied as the image processing device of this embodiment.

[0012] The printing method of the image processing device used in this embodiment may be an electrophotographic method, an inkjet method, or another method. In the case of an inkjet method, the printing device may be a printing means that prints using ink supplied from a cartridge. Alternatively, the printing device may be a printing means that prints using ink contained in an ink tank provided in an inkjet recording device by refilling the ink into the ink tank instead of replacing the cartridge containing the ink.

[0013] 2 is a diagram showing a plurality of home screens corresponding to the respective operation modes in image processing device 100 having a plurality of operation modes, and is a diagram showing each home screen displayed on display unit 108. The home screen is a screen that is displayed for the first time when image processing device 100 is turned on (soft-on). Alternatively, the home screen is a screen that is displayed when image processing device 100 is turned on and authentication processing based on user information for image processing device 100 is successful.

[0014] FIG. 2(a) is a diagram showing a standard mode home screen (hereinafter referred to as the standard home screen) in a standard scene displayed on the display unit 108. The name of the currently displayed (used) scene is displayed in a drawer 201, and when the user presses the drawer 201, the scene selection screen (FIG. 2(d)) of FIG. 2(d) is displayed. FIG. 2(d) is a diagram showing the scene selection screen displayed on the display unit 108. The scene selection screen includes a button 217 for displaying the standard home screen, buttons showing home screens in custom mode (hereinafter referred to as custom home screens) (a button 218 for displaying a custom home screen for the work scene, a button 219 for displaying a custom home screen for the study scene, and a button 220 for displaying a custom home screen for the life scene), and a button 221 for displaying a home screen in easy mode. When the user selects any of the buttons on the scene selection screen, the screen transitions to a home screen showing the corresponding scene. In other words, the user can easily switch between multiple home screens via the scene selection screen. Furthermore, when the user selects a button indicating one of the scenes, CPU 101 saves the currently selected scene information in ROM 102. The standard home screen includes a copy function (menu) button 202, a scan function button 203, a print function button 204, a LAN button 205, a wireless connect button 206, a settings button 207, and a hint button 208. Note that on the standard home screen, the buttons indicating each function (copy function button 202, scan function button 203, print function button 204) cannot be changed to buttons indicating other functions. However, the standard home screen may be configured so that buttons indicating other functions can be added to other pages on the standard home screen.

[0015] FIG. 2(b) shows a custom home screen for the work scene as an example of custom scenes (work scene, study scene, and life scene) displayed on the display unit 108. The study scene and life scene have the same configuration as the work scene, but the functions (menus) displayed on the home screen for each scene may differ because they are user-specified. The custom home screen includes multiple functions (three in this embodiment), each of which can be customized by the user. The function (button representing the function) displayed in each function position can be specified (registered) by user operation. Furthermore, the button representing the function displayed in each function position can be changed to a button representing another function by user operation. For example, when the standard copy function button 209 is selected from the standard copy function button 209, the divided copy function button 210, and the photo copy function button 211, the standard copy function button 209 can be changed to a button representing another function (a button different from the standard copy function, divided copy function, or photo copy function). For example, instead of the standard copy function button 209, it is possible to display a double-sided copy function (not shown) button, which is a function that is linked to one of the preset values, "double-sided printing" (the button indicating the standard copy function and the button indicating the double-sided copy function can be displayed interchangeably). Note that when a button indicating a function displayed on the customized home screen is selected and the function is executed, the setting value may be configured to return to the default value after the function is executed. Also, when a button indicating a function displayed on the customized home screen is selected and the function is executed, the setting value executed may be configured to be overwritten and saved after the function is executed. Note that the customized home screen includes a LAN button 205, a wireless connect button 206, a settings button 207, and a hint button 208. When the user presses each button, the screen transitions to the screen corresponding to the button.

[0016] FIG. 2(c) is a diagram showing the home screen of the easy mode displayed on the display unit 108. The home screen of the easy mode has a copy function button 212, a postcard copy function button 213, an SD card print function button 214, a maintenance function button 215, and an ink button 216. When the user presses each button, the screen transitions to the screen corresponding to that button. Note that the home screen of the easy mode displays buttons indicating three predetermined functions (the above-mentioned copy button 218, postcard copy button 219, and SD card print button 220), but these buttons cannot be changed to buttons indicating different functions.

[0017] FIG. 3 illustrates screen transitions from each home screen to a copy function setting screen, which are displayed on the display unit 108. FIG. 3A illustrates a flow for screen transitions from the standard home screen to the standard copy function setting screen. When the copy function is selected on the standard home screen 301, a copy menu screen 302 is displayed. The copy menu screen 302 allows selection of multiple different copy functions. Next, when the standard copy function is selected on the copy menu screen 302, a print standby screen 303 is displayed. The print standby screen 303 is a screen capable of displaying at least information about the paper loaded (fed) in the image processing device 100. Next, when print settings are selected on the print standby screen 303, a print setting screen 304 is displayed. On the print setting screen 304, the setting information (setting values) of the print settings for the standard copy function can be changed. The print setting values ​​are, for example, information about the paper loaded in the paper feed unit 106. Details of the configurable items will be described in FIG. 4. Furthermore, a print button (not shown) for instructing printing is displayed on the print standby screen 303 and the print setting screen 304. When the print button is pressed, CPU 101 starts printing. The print button may be a hard key instead of a soft button displayed on display unit 108. The hard key is provided, for example, on the front of the printer housing.

[0018] 3(b) shows the flow for transitioning from the custom home screen to the settings screen for the standard copy function. When the standard copy function is selected on the custom home screen 305, a print standby screen 303 similar to the standard home screen is displayed. When print settings are selected on the print standby screen 303, a print settings screen 304 similar to the standard home screen is displayed.

[0019] FIG. 3C shows the flow of screen transition from the easy mode home screen to the copy function setting screen. When the copy function is selected on the easy mode home screen 306, the easy mode copy function setting screen 307 is displayed. In other words, a screen corresponding to the print standby screen 303 displayed on the standard home screen or custom home screen is not displayed. On the easy mode copy function setting screen 307, the print setting values ​​for the easy mode copy function can be changed. A print button (not shown) is also displayed on the easy mode copy function setting screen 307. When the print button is pressed, the CPU 101 starts printing. Note that, in this embodiment, each function in the easy mode has fewer setting values ​​than the functions in the standard mode and custom mode to facilitate user use. Therefore, it is assumed that paper-related setting conflicts occur between the standard mode and custom mode, as described below, while paper-related setting conflicts do not occur in the easy mode. However, an embodiment in which paper-related setting conflicts occur in modes other than the standard mode may also occur.

[0020] Here, a paper-related setting conflict will be described. Assume that the image processing device 100 is capable of executing multiple different copy functions. For example, the multiple different copy functions are a standard copy function and a divided copy function. The divided copy function is a function that reads one page of an original, divides the original into two sheets of paper, and prints the resulting output so that the printed output becomes one large sheet when pasted together. Note that the multiple different copy functions are not limited to this, and may be each copy function as shown in the copy menu screen 302 of FIG. 3. For example, the standard copy function may be able to execute the copy function on a specific paper, but the divided copy function may not be able to execute the copy function on the specific paper. However, there may be a case where the paper loaded in the image processing device 100 is the specific paper and the divided copy function is selected in the image processing device 100. This state is a state in which a paper-related setting conflict has occurred. In other words, a state in which a paper-related setting conflict has occurred is a state in which an error has occurred, in which the copy function cannot be executed because paper that can be used (compatible) with the type of copy function selected by the user is not loaded.

[0021] If a paper setting conflict occurs, it is possible to prompt the user to change the loaded paper to paper that can be used for the selected type of copy function. For example, it is possible to indicate (notify) the user that a paper setting conflict has occurred in the "Paper Settings" item on the print setting screen 304. However, if the print setting screen 304 is configured to indicate that a paper setting conflict has occurred, the user will not be able to recognize that a paper setting conflict has occurred unless they transition to the print setting screen 304 in the above-mentioned screen flow. This may reduce user convenience.

[0022] Therefore, in this embodiment, an image processing apparatus 100 will be described that notifies the user that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred on the print standby screen 303. Specifically, information indicating that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred is displayed on the print standby screen 303, which is a screen that is displayed before the print setting screen 304 and displays information about paper. This allows the user to recognize that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred on the print standby screen 303, which is a screen that is displayed before the print setting screen 304 and displays information about paper, without having to navigate to the print setting screen 304. This makes it easier for the user to recognize that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred, improving user convenience.

[0023] A paper-related setting conflict may occur, for example, when the paper size, paper feed position, or paper type setting among the set print setting values ​​is incompatible with the selected copy function. In other words, if a setting conflict occurs because at least one of the set paper size and paper type setting values ​​is incompatible with the selected copy function, the paper must be replaced in order to execute the selected copy function. Also, if a setting conflict occurs because the paper feed position is incompatible with the selected copy function, the paper must be replaced or the paper feed position must be changed in order to execute the selected copy function.

[0024] Furthermore, in this embodiment, since the print standby screen 303 is a screen that displays information about paper, when a setting conflict related to paper occurs, a configuration will be described in which identification information indicating that a setting conflict related to paper has occurred is displayed on the print standby screen 303. However, this configuration is not limited to this. For example, a configuration may be such that a predetermined screen that displays information about predetermined setting values, which are set values ​​for print settings other than paper, is displayed before the print setting screen. In this configuration, when a setting conflict related to the predetermined setting values ​​occurs, identification information indicating that a setting conflict related to the predetermined setting values ​​has occurred may be displayed on the predetermined screen. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the function in which a setting conflict occurs is described as a copy function, but this is not limited to the copy function and may be any predetermined function in which a setting conflict occurs. For example, this embodiment may be applied when a setting conflict occurs in multiple different scan functions. Furthermore, while the setting conflict that occurs is described as a setting conflict related to paper, this is not limited to this, and this embodiment may be applied when a setting conflict occurs due to factors other than paper.

[0025] FIG. 4 is a table showing whether each setting value can be set for each copy function (whether each setting value is compatible or incompatible for each copy function). Each copy function has different usable paper sizes, paper types, and paper feed positions. Therefore, each copy function determines whether a paper-related setting conflict exists, and if it is determined that no paper-related setting conflict exists, the copy function is executed. FIGS. 4(a) and 4(b) are tables showing whether the print setting values ​​for each print setting item are compatible with the standard copy function and the divided copy function. Column 401 of the table shows an example of a print setting item that can be set in the image processing device 100, and columns 402 and 405 of the table show an example of the current print setting values ​​set in the image processing device 100. Columns 403 and 406 of the table indicate whether the print setting values ​​in columns 402 and 405 are compatible with the standard copy function of the image processing device 100, with ◯ indicating compatibility and × indicating incompatibility. Columns 404 and 407 of the table indicate whether the print setting values ​​in columns 402 and 405, respectively, are compatible with the divided copy function of the image processing device 100, with ◯ indicating compatibility and × indicating incompatibility. For example, FIG. 4A shows that the standard copy function can be performed with A5 paper size (compatible), but the divided copy function cannot be performed with A5 paper size (incompatible). In other words, a paper-related setting conflict occurs with the divided copy function, so in order to perform the divided copy function, the paper must be changed to a usable paper size. Also, for example, FIG. 4B shows that the standard copy function can be performed with the print quality "Fine," but the divided copy function cannot be performed with the print quality "Fine." In order to perform the divided copy function, the print quality setting must be changed to a print quality setting that allows the divided copy function to be performed. For example, the print quality setting must be changed to "Standard." However, the print quality setting conflict is not a paper-related setting conflict, but a setting conflict based on setting information other than paper information.

[0026] Next, referring to FIG. 5, a screen displayed on the display unit 108 when a paper-related setting conflict occurs will be described. FIGS. 5(a), (c), and (e) show the print standby screen 303, and FIGS. 5(b), (d), and (f) show the print setting screen 304, indicating whether a paper-related setting conflict occurs for each copy function. FIG. 5(a) shows a screen in a state where no setting conflict occurs (the state of column 403 in FIG. 4) when the standard copy function is selected. The print standby screen 303 in this state includes a paper feed slot icon 501, a paper type (type) button 502, a number of copies button 503, a guide illustration 504, a print setting button 505, and a print button (not shown). When the print button is pressed, the CPU 101 starts printing. The paper feed slot icon 501 and paper type 502 are updated according to the current print setting values. Pressing the paper type button 502 accepts a change to the paper feed position of the current print setting values. Pressing the number of copies button 503 accepts a change to the number of copies. The image (icon) displayed in the guide illustration 504 is updated based on the copy type (range). When the print setting button 505 is pressed, the screen transitions to the print setting screen 304, where changes to the current print setting values ​​can be accepted and the user can confirm the current print setting values. FIG. 5(b) shows the print setting screen 304 in a state where no setting conflict has occurred, and includes print setting items 506 and currently set print setting values ​​507. When each print setting item is pressed, changes to the currently set print setting values ​​are accepted. Also, in FIG. 5(b), a print button (not shown) is displayed on the display unit 108, and when the print button is pressed, the CPU 101 starts printing.

[0027] FIG. 5C shows a screen in a state where a paper-related setting conflict has occurred when the divided copy function is selected (the state of column 404 in FIG. 4). The print standby screen 303 in this state includes a paper feed slot icon 508, a paper type button 509, a number of copies button 510, a guide illustration 511, a print settings button 512, and a print button (not shown). When the print button is pressed, the CPU 101 starts printing. The paper feed slot icon 508 displays identification information indicating a paper-related setting conflict. In other words, by displaying information indicating a setting conflict on the paper feed slot icon 508, it becomes possible to identify that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred. The identification information indicating a paper-related setting conflict may be text in addition to an image, icon, or mark, or the image or icon may be controlled to light up, blink, or otherwise illuminate. A pop-up area may also be displayed that overlaps the print standby screen 303. The paper type button 509 updates its display content according to the current print setting values, and pressing the paper type button 509 accepts a change to the paper feed position of the current print setting values. Pressing the Number of Copies button 510 accepts a change to the number of copies. The image (icon) displayed in the guide illustration 511 is updated based on the copy type (type). The print settings button 512 displays information indicating that a setting conflict has occurred, and pressing the print settings button 512 transitions to the print settings screen 304. The print settings screen 304 can accept changes to the current print setting values ​​and also allows the user to check the current print setting values. FIG. 5D shows the print settings screen 304 in a state in which a setting conflict has occurred, and includes print setting items 506 and currently set print setting values ​​507. Furthermore, identification information indicating that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred is displayed in the item in which a paper-related setting conflict has occurred. The identification information indicating that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred may be an image, icon, mark, or text, or the image or icon may be controlled to light up, flash, or otherwise illuminate. A pop-up area overlapping the print standby screen 303 may also be displayed. Pressing each print setting item accepts changes to the currently set print setting values.In addition, in FIG. 5(d), a print button is displayed on the display unit 108, and when the print button is pressed, the CPU 101 starts printing. FIG. 5(e) shows a screen in a state where a setting conflict has occurred when the divided copy function is selected (the state of column 407 in FIG. 4). The print standby screen 303 in this state has a paper feed slot icon 513, a paper type button 514, a number of copies button 515, a guide illustration 516, a print settings button 517, and a print button (not shown). When the print button is pressed, the CPU 101 starts printing. The paper feed slot icon 513 and the paper type button 514 update their display contents according to the current print setting values, and when the paper type button 514 is pressed, changes to the paper feed position of the current print setting values ​​are accepted. When the number of copies button 515 is pressed, changes to the number of copies are accepted. In the guide illustration 516, the image (icon) displayed is updated based on the copy type. The print setting button 517 displays information indicating that a setting conflict has occurred, and pressing the print setting button 517 transitions to the print setting screen 304. The print setting screen 304 can accept changes to the current print setting values ​​and also allows the user to confirm the current print setting values. FIG. 5(f) shows the print setting screen 304 in a state in which a setting conflict has occurred, including each print setting item 506 and each currently set print setting value 507. Furthermore, by displaying information indicating a setting conflict in the item in which a setting conflict has occurred, it becomes possible to identify that a setting conflict has occurred in print quality. Note that the identification information indicating a setting conflict related to paper may be text in addition to an image, icon, or mark, or may be controlled so that the image or icon lights up, blinks, or otherwise illuminates. Alternatively, a pop-up area overlapping the print standby screen 303 may be displayed. Also, in FIG. 5(f), a print button is displayed on the display unit 108. When the print button is pressed, the CPU 101 starts printing.

[0028] 6 is a flowchart of the display process in this embodiment for displaying the print standby screen 303 on the display unit 108. The process of this flowchart starts when an instruction to display the print standby screen 303 is accepted.

[0029] First, in step S600, the CPU 101 acquires information indicating the print setting values ​​set for the selected copy function from the ROM 102 and sets the paper feed slot icon. The print setting values ​​are, for example, the information in columns 402 or 405 in FIG. 4.

[0030] In S601, CPU 101 acquires information indicating the copy type from ROM 102 and determines whether a setting conflict has occurred, such that the selected copy function cannot be executed with the set print setting values. If CPU 101 determines in S601 that a setting conflict has not occurred, the process proceeds to S605, where it updates a screen indicating that a setting conflict has not occurred (for example, the screen of FIG. 5A) and displays it on display unit 108, and the process of this flowchart ends. If CPU 101 determines in S601 that a setting conflict has occurred, the process proceeds to S602, where it determines whether a setting conflict related to paper has occurred. If CPU 101 determines in S602 that a setting conflict related to paper has not occurred, the process proceeds to S603, where it sets print setting button 517 to display identification information indicating that a setting conflict has occurred, and the process proceeds to S605. Then, in S605, CPU 101 updates a screen indicating that a setting conflict other than a setting conflict related to paper has occurred (for example, the screen of FIG. 5E), and displays it on display unit 108, and the process of this flowchart ends. On the other hand, if the CPU 101 determines in S602 that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred, the process proceeds to S604, where it sets the paper feed slot icon 508 to display identification information indicating that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred. Then, in S603, the CPU 101 sets the print setting button 512 to display identification information indicating that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred. Then, in S605, the CPU 101 updates a screen indicating that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred (for example, the screen of FIG. 5C) and displays it on the display unit 108, and ends the processing of this flowchart. Note that after setting in S604 that the paper feed slot icon 508 displays identification information indicating that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred, the process may proceed to S605 without proceeding to S603. Then, the CPU 101 may update a screen indicating that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred (for example, the screen of FIG. 11) and displays it on the display unit 108, and end the processing of this flowchart. FIG. 11 shows a screen indicating that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred. FIG. 11 includes a paper feed slot icon 1101, a print setting button 1102, and a print button (not shown), and when the print button is pressed, the CPU 101 starts printing.On the print standby screen of FIG. 11, the paper feed slot icon 1101 displays identification information indicating that a paper setting conflict has occurred, while the print setting button 1102 does not display identification information indicating that a setting conflict has occurred.

[0031] As described above, in this embodiment, the user is notified that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred on the print standby screen 303. Specifically, information indicating that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred is displayed on the print standby screen 303, which is a screen that is displayed before the print setting screen 304 and displays information about paper. This allows the user to recognize that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred on the print standby screen 303, which is a screen that is displayed before the print setting screen 304 and displays information about paper, without having to navigate to the print setting screen 304. This makes it easier for the user to recognize that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred, improving convenience for the user.

[0032] (Second embodiment) In the first embodiment, a paper-related setting conflict is displayed on the print standby screen when a paper-related setting conflict occurs. As described above, a paper-related setting conflict occurs when, for example, the paper size, paper feed position, or paper type setting values ​​among the set print setting values ​​are incompatible with the selected copy function. In other words, if a setting conflict occurs because at least one of the set paper size and paper type setting values ​​is incompatible with the selected copy function, paper needs to be replaced in order to execute the selected copy function. Also, if a setting conflict occurs because the paper feed position is incompatible with the selected copy function, paper needs to be replaced or the paper feed position needs to be changed in order to execute the selected copy function. Here, a paper-related setting conflict in a specific copy function may occur because the paper feed position is set to the first paper feed position in the print settings, even though the specific copy function cannot be executed with the first paper fed in the first paper feed position. However, if the specified copy function can be performed with the second paper fed to the second paper feed position, it can be performed by changing the paper feed position setting from the first paper feed position to the second paper feed position, even if the user does not change the paper.

[0033] Therefore, in this embodiment, the method of displaying identification information indicating that a setting conflict related to paper has occurred is changed based on the type of setting conflict related to paper. Specifically, when a setting conflict requiring paper replacement has occurred, identification information indicating that a setting conflict related to paper has occurred and that a setting conflict requiring paper replacement has occurred is displayed on the print standby screen. Also, when a setting conflict that will be resolved by changing the paper feed position on the print setting screen has occurred, identification information indicating that a setting conflict related to paper has occurred and that the setting conflict will be resolved by changing the paper feed position is displayed on the print standby screen.

[0034] FIG. 7 shows paper information for each paper feed position and a table showing whether each setting value can be set for each copy function (whether each setting value is supported or not for each copy function). FIG. 7(a) shows paper information for each paper feed position in the paper feed unit 106, with rear tray paper information 700 indicating that "A4 plain paper" is set and cassette paper information 701 indicating that "A5 plain paper" is set. FIGS. 7(b) and 7(c) are tables showing whether the print setting values ​​for each print setting item are supported by the split copy function. Column 702 in the table shows an example of a print setting item that can be set in the image processing device 100, and columns 703 and 705 in the table show an example of the current print setting values ​​set in the image processing device 100. Columns 704 and 706 in the table show whether the print setting values ​​in columns 703 and 705, respectively, are supported by the split copy function of the image processing device 100, with "◯" indicating supported and "×" indicating not supported. The paper size "A5" shown in Fig. 7(b) is not compatible with the divided copy function, but if the paper feed position is changed, it becomes the paper size "A4" in column 706 shown in Fig. 7(c), and becomes a print setting that is compatible with the divided copy function, as shown in column 707. In this way, changing the paper feed position can sometimes resolve setting conflicts, so the user is notified on the copy standby screen that changing the paper feed position can resolve setting conflicts.

[0035] Next, a screen displayed on the display unit 108 when notifying the user that a paper change or a paper feed position change is required will be described. FIG. 8A shows a screen in a state where a paper setting conflict has occurred when the divided copy function has been selected (the state of column 704 in FIG. 7B). The print standby screen 303 in this state includes a paper feed slot icon 800, a paper type button 801, a number of copies button, a guide illustration, a print settings button, and a print button (not shown). When the print button is pressed, the CPU 101 starts printing. The paper feed slot icon 800 displays identification information indicating that a paper setting conflict has occurred and that the setting conflict will be resolved by changing the paper feed position. The identification information indicating that a paper setting conflict has occurred and that the setting conflict will be resolved by changing the paper feed position may be in the form of text in addition to an image, icon, or mark, or the image or icon may be controlled to light up, flash, or otherwise illuminate. A pop-up area overlapping the print standby screen 303 may also be displayed. FIG. 8(b) shows a screen in a state where a paper-related setting conflict has occurred when the divided copy function has been selected (the state of column 404 in FIG. 4). The print standby screen 303 in this state includes a paper feed slot icon 802, a paper type button 803, a number of copies button, a guide illustration, a print settings button, and a print button (not shown). When the print button is pressed, the CPU 101 starts printing. The paper feed slot icon 802 displays identification information indicating that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred and that a paper change is required. The identification information indicating that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred and that a paper change is required may be text in addition to an image, icon, or mark, or the image or icon may be controlled to light up, flash, or the like. A pop-up area overlapping the print standby screen 303 may also be displayed.

[0036] 9 is a flowchart of the display process in this embodiment for displaying the print standby screen 303 on the display unit 108. The process of this flowchart starts when an instruction to display the print standby screen 303 is accepted.

[0037] The processes of S600 to S603 and S605 are the same as those of S600 to S603 and S605 in FIG. 6, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0038] In step S901, the CPU 101 acquires paper information for a paper feed position different from the paper feed position set in the current print setting values ​​from the ROM 102. For example, if the paper feed position in the current print setting values ​​is set to a cassette, paper information for the rear tray is acquired.

[0039] In S902, CPU 101 determines whether the setting conflict can be resolved (whether the selected copy function can be executed) using paper information for a paper feed position different from the paper feed position set in the current print setting values ​​acquired in S901. If CPU 101 determines in S902 that the setting conflict can be resolved using paper information for a paper feed position different from the paper feed position set in the current print setting values, the process proceeds to S903. Then, in S903, CPU 101 sets the paper feed slot icon 800 to display identification information indicating that a setting conflict related to paper has occurred and that the setting conflict will be resolved by changing the paper feed position. Then, in S603, CPU 101 sets the print setting button to display identification information indicating that a setting conflict has occurred. Then, in S605, CPU 101 displays FIG. 8A on display unit 108 and ends the processing of this flowchart. On the other hand, if the CPU 101 determines in S902 that the setting conflict cannot be resolved with paper information for a paper feed position different from the paper feed position set in the current print setting values ​​(paper replacement is necessary), the process proceeds to S904. Then, in S904, the CPU 101 sets the paper feed slot icon 802 to display identification information indicating that a setting conflict related to paper has occurred and that a setting conflict requiring a paper replacement has occurred. Then, in S603, the CPU 101 sets the print setting button to display identification information indicating that a setting conflict has occurred. Then, in S605, the CPU 101 displays FIG. 8B on the display unit 108 and ends the processing of this flowchart.

[0040] According to this embodiment, if a setting conflict can be resolved by changing the paper feed position, the user can be informed that the setting conflict will be resolved by changing the paper feed position, thereby reducing the number of times the user has to change paper. In other words, visibility for the user can be improved and the effort required for changing paper can be reduced.

[0041] (Third embodiment) In the first embodiment, a form was described in which identification information indicating that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred was displayed in standard mode and custom mode. However, in custom mode, functions displayed on the custom home screen are designated and registered by the user, and the user may be familiar with information about the copy functions set for each scene in custom mode. In this case, the display of identification information indicating that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred in custom mode may be bothersome to the user. Therefore, in this embodiment, a form will be described in which identification information indicating that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred is displayed when the image processing device 100 is in standard mode, but identification information indicating that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred is not displayed when the image processing device 100 is in custom mode.

[0042] 10 is a flowchart of the display process in this embodiment for displaying the print standby screen 303 on the display unit 108. The process of this flowchart starts when an instruction to display the print standby screen 303 is accepted.

[0043] The processing of S600 to S605 is the same as that of S600 to S605 in FIG. 6, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0044] In S1001, the CPU 101 acquires the currently used (displayed) selected scene information from the ROM 102. In S1002, the CPU 101 determines whether the scene information acquired in S1004 is a standard scene, and if it is determined that it is a standard scene, the process proceeds to S604. Then, in S604, the CPU 101 sets the paper feed slot icon 508 to display identification information indicating that a setting conflict related to paper has occurred. Then, in S603, the CPU 101 sets the print setting button 512 to display identification information indicating that a setting conflict related to paper has occurred, and in S605, the CPU 101 displays FIG. 5C on the display unit 108, and ends the processing of this flowchart. On the other hand, if the CPU 101 determines in S605 that the scene information acquired in S1001 is not a standard scene, the process proceeds to S603. In other words, when the image processing device 100 is in custom mode, the CPU 101 proceeds to S603 without setting the display of identification information indicating that a setting conflict related to paper has occurred, even if a setting conflict related to paper has occurred. Then, in S603, the CPU 101 sets identification information indicating that a setting conflict has occurred in the print setting button 512, and in S605, displays FIG. 5E on the display unit 108, and ends the processing of this flowchart.

[0045] According to this embodiment, even if a paper-related setting conflict occurs, if the image processing device 100 is in custom mode, identification information indicating that a paper-related setting conflict has occurred is not displayed, which may reduce inconvenience to the user.

[0046] (Other embodiments) The above-described embodiments can also be realized by executing the following process. That is, software (programs) that realize the functions of the above-described embodiments are supplied to a system or device via a network or various storage media, and a computer (CPU, MPU, etc.) of the system or device reads and executes the program. The program may be executed by a single computer, or may be executed by multiple computers in cooperation with each other. Furthermore, it is not necessary to realize all of the above-described processes by software; some or all of the processes may be realized by hardware such as an ASIC. Furthermore, the CPU is not limited to one that performs all processes by a single CPU, and multiple CPUs may perform processes in cooperation with each other as appropriate.

[0047] Furthermore, the functions of the above-described embodiments are not only realized by a computer reading and executing the program code. The present disclosure also includes cases where an operating system running on a computer performs some or all of the actual processing based on the instructions of the program code, thereby realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments. The disclosure of the present embodiments includes the following configurations, methods, and programs.

[0048] The disclosure of this embodiment includes the following configuration.

[0049] (Item 1) An image processing device having at least a predetermined function, a first screen capable of displaying paper information set as the paper to be used when the predetermined function is executed, and a display control means for displaying the second screen when an area for displaying a second screen including setting information related to the predetermined function is selected on the first screen; Equipped with If the predetermined function cannot be executed on the paper based on the paper information, the display control means displays, on the first screen, identification information indicating that the predetermined function cannot be executed on the paper based on the paper information. 1. An image processing device comprising:

[0050] (Item 2) The image processing device described in item 1 is characterized in that, if the specified function cannot be executed on paper based on the paper information, the display control means displays identification information indicating that the specified function cannot be executed on paper based on the paper information in a first area on the first screen that shows the paper information, and displays information indicating that the specified function cannot be executed in an area on the first screen for displaying the second screen.

[0051] (Item 3) The image processing device described in item 1 or 2, characterized in that if the specified function cannot be executed on paper based on the paper information, the display control means displays identification information indicating that the specified function cannot be executed on paper based on the paper information on the first screen and the second screen.

[0052] (Item 4) An image processing device described in any one of items 1 to 3, characterized in that when the specified function cannot be executed based on setting information other than the paper information, the display control means does not display identification information indicating that the specified function cannot be executed on paper based on the paper information on the first screen, and displays information indicating that the specified function cannot be executed on the first screen and the second screen.

[0053] (Item 5) An image processing device described in any one of items 1 to 4, characterized in that when the specified function cannot be executed based on setting information other than the paper information, the display control means does not display identification information indicating that the specified function cannot be executed on paper based on the paper information on the first screen, and displays information indicating that the specified function cannot be executed in an area on the first screen for displaying the second screen and on the second screen.

[0054] (Item 6) An image processing device described in any one of items 1 to 5, characterized in that the identification information indicating that the specified function cannot be executed on paper based on the paper information is identification information that prompts the user to change the paper information to paper information that can execute the specified function.

[0055] (Item 7) An image processing device described in any one of items 1 to 5, characterized in that the identification information indicating that the specified function cannot be performed on paper based on the paper information is identification information that prompts replacement of paper based on the paper information.

[0056] (Item 8) The image processing device further comprises a plurality of operating modes; An image processing device as described in any one of items 1 to 7, characterized in that in at least one of the operating modes, even if the specified function cannot be executed on paper based on the paper information, the display control means does not display identification information indicating that the specified function cannot be executed on paper based on the paper information on the first screen.

[0057] (Item 9) The image processing device described in item 8 is characterized in that the image processing device is capable of switching between multiple home screens corresponding to the multiple operating modes, and the multiple home screens include at least a first home screen that can display a home screen including the specified function, and a second home screen that can change the specified function to a function different from the specified function.

[0058] (Item 10) 10. The image processing device according to item 9, wherein the plurality of operation modes includes an operation mode having fewer setting items than other operation modes.

[0059] (Item 11) 11. The image processing device according to any one of items 1 to 10, wherein the predetermined function is a copy function.

[0060] (Item 12) A control method for an image processing device having at least a predetermined function, comprising: a display control step of displaying a first screen capable of displaying paper information set as paper to be used when the predetermined function is executed, and the second screen that is displayed when an area for displaying a second screen including setting information related to the predetermined function is selected on the first screen; and If the predetermined function cannot be executed on the paper based on the paper information, the display control step displays, on the first screen, identification information indicating that the predetermined function cannot be executed on the paper based on the paper information. A control method comprising:

[0061] (Item 13) A computer of an image processing device having at least a predetermined function, a display control step of displaying a first screen capable of displaying paper information set as paper to be used when the predetermined function is executed, and the second screen that is displayed when an area for displaying a second screen including setting information related to the predetermined function is selected on the first screen; A program for executing If the predetermined function cannot be executed on the paper based on the paper information, the display control step displays, on the first screen, identification information indicating that the predetermined function cannot be executed on the paper based on the paper information. A program characterized by: [Explanation of symbols]

[0062] 100 Image processing device 101 CPU 106 Paper feed section 108 Display section

Claims

1. An image processing device having at least a predetermined function, a first screen capable of displaying paper information set as the paper to be used when the predetermined function is executed, and a display control means for displaying the second screen when an area for displaying a second screen including setting information related to the predetermined function is selected on the first screen; Equipped with If the predetermined function cannot be executed on the paper based on the paper information, the display control means displays, on the first screen, identification information indicating that the predetermined function cannot be executed on the paper based on the paper information.

1. An image processing device comprising:

2. The image processing device described in claim 1, characterized in that if the specified function cannot be executed on paper based on the paper information, the display control means displays identification information indicating that the specified function cannot be executed on paper based on the paper information in a first area on the first screen that indicates the paper information, and displays information indicating that the specified function cannot be executed in an area on the first screen for displaying the second screen.

3. The image processing device described in claim 1, characterized in that if the specified function cannot be executed on paper based on the paper information, the display control means displays identification information indicating that the specified function cannot be executed on paper based on the paper information on the first screen and the second screen.

4. The image processing device described in claim 1, characterized in that when the specified function cannot be executed based on setting information other than the paper information, the display control means does not display identification information indicating that the specified function cannot be executed on paper based on the paper information on the first screen, and displays information indicating that the specified function cannot be executed on the first screen and the second screen.

5. The image processing device described in claim 1, characterized in that when the specified function cannot be executed based on setting information other than the paper information, the display control means does not display identification information indicating that the specified function cannot be executed on paper based on the paper information on the first screen, and displays information indicating that the specified function cannot be executed in an area on the first screen for displaying the second screen and on the second screen.

6. The image processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the identification information indicating that the specified function cannot be executed on paper based on the paper information is identification information that prompts the user to change the paper information to paper information that can execute the specified function.

7. 2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the identification information indicating that the predetermined function cannot be executed on the paper based on the paper information is identification information that prompts replacement of the paper based on the paper information.

8. The image processing device further comprises a plurality of operating modes; An image processing device as described in claim 1, characterized in that in at least one of the operating modes, even if the specified function cannot be executed on paper based on the paper information, the display control means does not display identification information indicating that the specified function cannot be executed on paper based on the paper information on the first screen.

9. The image processing device according to claim 8, characterized in that the image processing device is capable of switching between multiple home screens corresponding to the multiple operating modes, and the multiple home screens include at least a first home screen capable of displaying a home screen including the specified function, and a second home screen capable of changing the specified function to a function different from the specified function.

10. 10. The image processing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the plurality of operation modes includes an operation mode having fewer setting items than the other operation modes.

11. 2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined function is a copy function.

12. A control method for an image processing device having at least a predetermined function, comprising: a display control step for displaying a first screen capable of displaying paper information set as paper to be used when the predetermined function is executed, and the second screen that is displayed when an area for displaying a second screen including setting information related to the predetermined function is selected on the first screen; and If the predetermined function cannot be executed on the paper based on the paper information, the display control step displays, on the first screen, identification information indicating that the predetermined function cannot be executed on the paper based on the paper information. A control method comprising:

13. A computer of an image processing device having at least a predetermined function, a display control step of displaying a first screen capable of displaying paper information set as paper to be used when the predetermined function is executed, and the second screen that is displayed when an area for displaying a second screen including setting information related to the predetermined function is selected on the first screen; A program for executing If the predetermined function cannot be executed on the paper based on the paper information, the display control step displays, on the first screen, identification information indicating that the predetermined function cannot be executed on the paper based on the paper information. A program characterized by:

Images