Image forming apparatus, method for controlling image forming apparatus, and storage medium

Abstract

To provide an image forming apparatus capable of reducing automatic output unnecessary for a user, a control method of the image forming apparatus, and a program.SOLUTION: The image forming device 101 automatically outputs a sheet if the setting of automatic outputting is ON and does not automatically output a sheet if the setting of automatic outputting is OFF in a case where a condition for automatic outputting is satisfied, and has a CPU107 for updating the setting of automatic outputting to OFF in a case where the image forming device 101 enters a printing upper limit management mode in which a predetermined number of sheets can be outputted for a predetermined amount of money.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, a control method for an image forming apparatus, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, subscription services for image forming devices have adopted a flat-rate printing system as their billing method. With an image forming device that employs a flat-rate printing system, a user can print up to a certain number of pages (hereinafter referred to as the "printable number") by paying a certain amount every specified period. However, the printable number is consumed even when printed materials such as communication management reports are automatically output. Therefore, users who do not need automatic output of communication management reports and the like may want to disable the automatic output setting for communication management reports and the like in advance to prevent the automatic output of such reports from being wasted. In this regard, Patent Document 1 (JP-A-2005-102666) describes a technology for setting automatic output that allows a user to configure all automatic output settings on a single screen, preventing the easy omission of settings when each setting menu is located in a different location. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 8-274926 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, even if a single screen is provided on which the user can configure all automatic output settings, as in the technology described in Patent Document 1, the user cannot configure the automatic output settings in advance unless the user is aware of the existence of that single screen. Furthermore, a communication management report is generally a printed document that is automatically output every time a certain number of emails or faxes are sent or received. Therefore, the user only realizes that the automatic output setting for the communication management report is turned on once the communication management report has been automatically output. Thus, there is a problem in that even if the user wants to disable unnecessary automatic output, the user does not realize in advance that the automatic output setting needs to be changed.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus, a control method for an image forming apparatus, and a program that can reduce automatic output that is unnecessary for the user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, the image forming apparatus of the present invention is an image forming apparatus that, when the conditions for automatic output are met, automatically outputs paper if the automatic output setting is ON, and does not automatically output paper if the automatic output setting is OFF, and is characterized in that it is equipped with an update means that updates the automatic output setting to OFF when the image forming apparatus enters an upper limit management mode in which it can output up to a specified number of sheets of paper for a specified amount. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to reduce automatic outputs that are unnecessary for the user. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a subscription system in a first embodiment. [Figure 2]In the first embodiment, (a) is a conceptual diagram showing user data, (b) is a conceptual diagram showing plan data, and (c) is a conceptual diagram showing contract data. [Figure 3] In the first embodiment, (a) is a conceptual diagram showing settings for print upper limit management of the image forming apparatus, and (b) is a conceptual diagram showing settings for automatic output of the image forming apparatus. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a print upper limit setting screen of the image forming apparatus in the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart showing a linkage process for updating all automatic output settings of the image forming apparatus to OFF in conjunction with the setting of print upper limit management of the image forming apparatus being changed to ON in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an automatic output setting screen of the image forming apparatus in the second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an automatic output setting display flag of an image forming apparatus in a second embodiment. [Figure 8] In the second embodiment, (a) is a flowchart when the automatic output setting display flag of the image forming apparatus is switched ON, and (b) is a flowchart when the image forming apparatus is started up. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram showing a print counter in the third embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a display unit of an image forming apparatus when a message or the like is displayed in a third embodiment. [Figure 11] In the third embodiment, (a) is a flowchart when a message or an automatic output setting button is displayed on the display unit depending on the remaining number of printable sheets of the image forming device, and (b) is a flowchart when the automatic output setting screen is displayed on the display unit. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a first selection screen of the image forming apparatus in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 13] 13 is a flowchart showing a process when a first selection screen of the image forming apparatus is displayed as a pop-up on the display unit in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 14]13 is a flowchart showing a linkage process in which only a predetermined automatic output setting of the image forming apparatus is updated to OFF in conjunction with the setting of print upper limit management of the image forming apparatus being changed to ON in the fifth embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a second selection screen of the image forming apparatus in the sixth embodiment. [Figure 16] 13 is a flowchart showing a pop-up display of a second selection screen of the image forming apparatus on the display unit in the sixth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the configurations described in the following embodiments are merely examples, and the scope of the present invention is not limited to the configurations described in the embodiments. For example, each component constituting the present invention can be replaced with any configuration that can perform the same function. Also, any component may be added. Furthermore, any two or more configurations (features) of each embodiment can be combined.

[0010] First Embodiment A first embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5. In the first embodiment, a method for automatically updating all automatic output settings to OFF when print upper limit management, which will be described later, is performed in a subscription service or the like, will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a subscription system 100. The subscription system 100 has an image forming apparatus 101, a contract management server 121, and a PC 131. The image forming apparatus 101, the contract management server 121, and the PC 131 are communicably connected via a network, LAN / WAN 141. Details of the image forming apparatus 101 will be described later.

[0011] The contract management server 121 manages the contract information of each of a plurality of image forming apparatuses, including the image forming apparatus 101. Details of the contract management server 121 will be described later. The PC 131 updates the contract information managed by the contract management server 121 in response to user operations via a web browser. Note that the contract information managed by the contract management server 121 may be updated by a dedicated application on the PC 131, or may be updated on the image forming apparatus 101.

[0012] Next, the image forming apparatus 101 will be described in detail. The image forming apparatus 101 has a controller unit 102, a display unit 103, an operation unit 104, a printer unit 105, and a scanner unit 106. The display unit 103 has an LED or LCD display, and displays the user's operation details and internal information of the apparatus. The operation unit 104 accepts operations from the user. The operation unit 104 is realized as a touch display together with the display unit 103, but may also be composed of, for example, multiple operation buttons. The printer unit 105 accepts a print instruction from the controller unit 102 and prints the image data sent from the controller unit 102 on paper.

[0013] The scanner unit 106 receives a read instruction from the controller unit 102, performs a read operation, and transmits image data acquired through the read operation to the controller unit 102. The scanner unit 106 has a pressure plate mode in which a document placed on a glass platen is read, and an ADF mode in which a document is read while being transported by an automatic document feeder (ADF). The controller unit 102 has a CPU 107, ROM 108, RAM 109, HDD 110, EEPROM 111, network I / F 112, MODEM 113, and NCU 114. The CPU 107 is an execution medium for a control program built into the image forming apparatus 101, and controls the operation of devices connected to the controller unit 102 via the network I / F 112, memory of a storage medium, etc.

[0014] The ROM 108 is a read-only memory. The ROM 108 stores a boot program required for system startup and the like. The RAM 109 is a volatile memory, and is a work memory required when the control program is executed. The HDD 110 is a storage medium such as a magnetic disk. The HDD 110 stores the control program, image data, and the like. The EEPROM 111 is a non-volatile memory. The EEPROM 111 stores setting values ​​and the like required when the control program is executed. The EEPROM 111 also stores information regarding the contract plan, which will be described later, transmitted from the contract management server 121.

[0015] The MODEM 113 demodulates modulated signals received from the telephone line 151, and conversely modulates signals from the device and sends them out to the telephone line 151. The NCU 114 is the interface between the telephone line 151 and the FAX, and performs line control such as detecting signals coming from the telephone line 151 and transmitting them to the MODEM 113, and switching the telephone line 151 to the FAX or telephone 161.

[0016] Next, the contract management server 121 will be described in detail. The contract management server 121 has a CPU 122, a ROM 123, a RAM 124, a HDD 125, and a network I / F 126. The CPU 122 is an execution medium for the server functions of the contract management server 121. The ROM 123 is a read-only memory. The ROM 123 stores a boot program required for system startup and the like. The RAM 124 is a volatile memory and serves as work memory required for executing the server function programs. The HDD 125 is a storage medium such as a magnetic disk. The HDD 125 stores the server function programs, as well as user data, plan data, and contract data, which will be described later. The contract management server 121 can communicate with the image forming apparatus 101 and the PC 131 via the network I / F 126 and the WAN / LAN 141, and provides the PC 131 with a contract information update service for the image forming apparatus.

[0017] Next, the user data, plan data, and contract data stored in the HDD 125 of the contract management server 121 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2(a) is a conceptual diagram showing user data 201. Each piece of user data 201 has a user ID 202, a password 203, an address 204, and a payment method 205. The information indicated by the user ID 202 and the password 203 is the user ID and password used to distinguish users when the contract management server 121 provides the image forming device contract information update service to the PC 131.

[0018] The information indicated by address 204 is the user's address, and is used when issuing invoices and receipts. The information indicated by payment means 205 is the payment means for the fee paid by the user when using the image forming apparatus. Payment means for the fee include, for example, credit card payment and bank withdrawal. Note that in the first embodiment, the information constituting user data 201 is the information indicated by user ID 202, password 203, address 204, and payment means 205, but is not limited to these, and may be any information related to the user.

[0019] FIG. 2(b) is a conceptual diagram showing plan data 211. Each piece of plan data 211 has a plan 212, a printable number of sheets 213, and a fee 214. In the first embodiment, all information indicated by the plan 212 is a monthly contract plan. Therefore, information indicated by the fee 214 is a predetermined amount to be paid per month, and information indicated by the printable number of sheets 213 is a predetermined number of sheets that can be printed in that month for the predetermined amount paid per month (hereinafter also referred to as the "maximum number of printable sheets"). Note that in the first embodiment, the information constituting the plan data 211 is information indicated by the plan 212, the printable number of sheets 213, and the fee 214, respectively, but is not limited to these, and may be any information related to the contract plan.

[0020] FIG. 2(c) is a conceptual diagram showing contract data 221. Each piece of contract data 221 has a serial number 222, a user ID 223, and a plan 224. The information indicated by the serial number 222 is an ID for uniquely identifying an image forming apparatus and is used for managing contract information on a serial number basis. The information indicated by the user ID 223 is the ID of a user who has concluded a contract for the image forming apparatus uniquely identified by the serial number 222, and is information indicated by one of the user IDs 202 in the user data 201. The information indicated by the plan 224 is a contract plan for the image forming apparatus uniquely identified by the serial number 222, and is information indicated by one of the plans 212 in the plan data 211.

[0021] Next, referring to FIG. 3A, the setting of print upper limit management of the image forming apparatus 101 of the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 3A is a conceptual diagram showing the setting of print upper limit management 301 of the image forming apparatus 101. The print upper limit management 301 indicates whether the image forming apparatus 101 performs print upper limit management by setting it to either ON or OFF. The setting of print upper limit management 301 can be changed from a print upper limit setting screen (400 in FIG. 4 described later) that can only be operated by an administrator or service technician. The default setting of print upper limit management 301 is OFF. Only when the print upper limit management 301 setting is ON does the image forming apparatus 101 operate in print upper limit management mode (upper limit management mode), and the image forming apparatus 101 performs print upper limit management. The setting of print upper limit management 301 is stored in the EEPROM 111.

[0022] The value of the print limit 302 indicates the maximum number of pages that can be printed. If a fixed-price printing contract (referred to as a "fixed-price contract") has not been concluded, the value of the print limit 302 is none (=unlimited). If a fixed-price contract has been concluded, the CPU 107 of the image forming apparatus 101 receives the value of the printable number 213 determined according to the contract plan (i.e., plan 212) from the contract management server 121 and stores it in the EEPROM 111 as the value of the print limit 302. Therefore, the value of the print limit 302 cannot be changed unless the user changes the contract plan. As described above, when the CPU 107 of the image forming apparatus 101 performs print limit management by operating the image forming apparatus 101 in print limit management mode, it enables paper output up to the number indicated by the value of the print limit 302 (i.e., printable number 213) per month.

[0023] Next, with reference to Figures 3(b) to 5, a description will be given of a linkage process in which all automatic output settings of the image forming apparatus 101 are updated to OFF in conjunction with the setting of the print upper limit management 301 of the image forming apparatus 101 being changed to ON. Figure 3(b) is a conceptual diagram showing the automatic output settings of the image forming apparatus 101. The automatic outputs include a transmission result report 311, a reception result report 312, a communication management report 313, a fax transmission result report 314, a fax reception result report 315, a fax communication management report 316, and a fax box reception report 317. The transmission result report 311 indicates the conditions under which the image forming apparatus 101 outputs paper on which a report on the results of a transmission job such as email, SMB, or fax is printed, with one of the following settings: ON, error only, or OFF.

[0024] Specifically, for example, when the setting of transmission result report 311 is ON, the image forming apparatus 101 outputs a paper sheet on which a report of the results of a transmission job such as email, SMB, or fax is printed when the job is performed. Also, when the setting of transmission result report 311 is set to "Error Only," the image forming apparatus 101 outputs a paper sheet on which a report of the results of a transmission job such as email, SMB, or fax is printed when an error occurs. On the other hand, when the setting of transmission result report 311 is OFF, the image forming apparatus 101 neither prints nor outputs a paper sheet on which a report of the results of a transmission job such as email, SMB, or fax is performed. The same applies to reception result report 312, communication management report 313, fax transmission result report 314, fax reception result report 315, fax communication management report 316, and fax box reception report 317.

[0025] The reception result report 312 indicates whether the image forming apparatus 101 will print a paper with a report on the results of a reception job such as an I-FAX or FAX, with a setting of ON, only in the event of an error, or OFF. The communication management report 313 indicates whether the image forming apparatus 101 will print a paper with a report on the results of the transmission / reception job each time a certain number of the transmission job and reception job histories are accumulated, with a setting of ON or OFF. The fax transmission result report 314 is a transmission result report 311 specialized for FAX. The fax transmission result report 314 indicates whether the image forming apparatus 101 will print a paper with a report on the results of a FAX transmission job, with a setting of ON, only in the event of an error, or OFF. The fax reception result report 315 is a reception result report 312 specialized for FAX. The fax reception result report 315 indicates whether the image forming apparatus 101 outputs a paper sheet on which a report of the result of a fax reception job is printed, by setting it to ON, only in case of an error, or OFF.

[0026] The fax communication management report 316 is a communication management report 313 specialized for faxes. The fax communication management report 316 indicates, by setting either ON or OFF, whether the image forming apparatus 101 should print a paper report on the results of fax transmission and reception jobs each time a certain number of histories of those jobs are accumulated. The fax box reception report 317 indicates, by setting either ON or OFF, whether the image forming apparatus 101 should print a paper report on the results of a fax transmission or reception job when a job to store a document received by fax in a fax box is performed. The settings for each automatic output, i.e., the settings for each of the above reports 311 to 317, are stored in RAM 109. Note that the automatic output settings are not limited to the settings for each of the above reports 311 to 317, and other settings may also be used.

[0027] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a print limit setting screen 400. The print limit setting screen 400 is displayed on the display unit 103 of the image forming apparatus 101. The print limit setting screen 400 has an ON button 401 and an OFF button 402. Note that the ON button 401 can be pressed when the print limit management 301 setting of the image forming apparatus 101 is OFF. Also, the OFF button 402 can be pressed when the print limit management 301 setting of the image forming apparatus 101 is ON. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the above-mentioned linked processing. Each process (control method of the image forming apparatus) shown in the flowchart of FIG. 5 is realized in the image forming apparatus 101 by the CPU 107 (computer) loading a program read from the HDD 110 into the RAM 109 and executing the program.

[0028] In step S500, CPU 107 determines whether or not ON button 401 on print limit setting screen 400 has been pressed. It is assumed that print limit setting screen 400 is displayed on display unit 103 by a user operation via a touch display realized by display unit 103 and operation unit 104. Note that pressing of ON button 401 on print limit setting screen 400 is performed via the touch display described above. If CPU 107 determines that ON button 401 on print limit setting screen 400 has been operated, the process proceeds to step S501. On the other hand, if CPU 107 determines that ON button 401 on print limit setting screen 400 has not been operated, the flowchart in FIG. 5 ends.

[0029] In step S501, CPU 107 changes the setting of print upper limit management 301 stored in EEPROM 111 to ON, thereby putting image forming apparatus 101 into print upper limit management mode. In step S502, CPU 107 (update means) updates all automatic output settings stored in RAM 109, that is, the settings of each of reports 311 to 317, to OFF (update step). Thereafter, the flowchart in FIG. 5 ends. Note that, once the flowchart in FIG. 5 ends, the user can update the setting of each of reports 311 to 317 to ON, for example, by their own operation.

[0030] As described above, when the image forming apparatus 101 enters the print upper limit management mode in which the image forming apparatus 101 can output up to a predetermined number of sheets for a predetermined fee, the CPU 107 of the image forming apparatus 101 updates all automatic output settings to OFF. This allows the image forming apparatus 101 to reduce automatic outputs that are unnecessary for the user.

[0031] Second Embodiment A second embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 6 to 8. In the second embodiment, a method will be described for displaying on the display unit 103 an automatic output setting screen (600 in Figure 6 described later) that allows the user to update the settings of each automatic output all at once when the image forming apparatus 101 is first started after the setting of print upper limit management 301 has been changed to ON. Note that in the second embodiment, only the differences from the first embodiment will be described.

[0032] 6 is a diagram showing an automatic output setting screen 600. The automatic output setting screen 600 has a plurality of menus 601 to 607, an OK button 608, and a cancel button 609. Each of the menus 601 to 607 has a plurality of buttons that allow the user to select ON, only in case of an error, or OFF for the settings of each of the reports 311 to 317. The menu 601 is a menu that allows the user to select settings for the transmission result report 311. The menu 602 is a menu that allows the user to select settings for the reception result report 312. The menu 603 is a menu that allows the user to select settings for the communication management report 313. The menu 604 is a menu that allows the user to select settings for the fax transmission result report 314.

[0033] A menu 605 is a menu that allows the user to select settings for the fax reception result report 315. A menu 606 is a menu that allows the user to select settings for the fax communication management report 316. A menu 607 is a menu that allows the user to select settings for the fax box reception report 317. An OK button 608 is a button for storing selections in each of the menus 601 to 607 in the RAM 109 as settings for each of the reports 311 to 317. A cancel button 609 is a button for closing the automatic output setting screen 600 without storing selections in each of the menus 601 to 607 in the RAM 109.

[0034] 7 is a conceptual diagram showing an automatic output setting display flag 701 of the image forming apparatus 101. The automatic output setting display flag 701 (flag) indicates, by switching ON or OFF, whether the image forming apparatus 101 displays the automatic output setting screen 600 on the display unit 103. The automatic output setting display flag 701 is stored in the RAM 109.

[0035] FIG. 8A is a flowchart showing the process when the automatic output setting display flag 701 of the image forming apparatus 101 is switched to ON. Each process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 8A is realized by the CPU 107 of the image forming apparatus 101 loading a program read from the HDD 110 into the RAM 109 and executing the program. Steps S800 and S801 are similar to steps S500 and S501 described above, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted. In step S802, the CPU 107 (first switching means) switches the automatic output setting display flag 701 stored in the RAM 109 to ON. As a result, the CPU 107 switches the automatic output setting display flag 701 to ON in conjunction with the setting of the print upper limit management 301 being changed to ON. Thereafter, the flowchart of FIG. 8A ends.

[0036] FIG. 8B is a flowchart showing the process performed when the image forming apparatus 101 is started up. Each process (control method of the image forming apparatus) shown in the flowchart of FIG. 8B is realized by the CPU 107 (computer) of the image forming apparatus 101 loading a program read from the HDD 110 into the RAM 109 and executing the program. This also applies to the flowcharts of FIGS. 11A and 11B, 13, 14, and 16, which will be described later. In step S811, the CPU 107 starts up the image forming apparatus 101. This process is performed based on, for example, pressing a power button (not shown). In step S812, the CPU 107 (display determination means) determines whether the automatic output setting display flag 701 stored in the RAM 109 is ON (display determination step). If the CPU 107 determines that the automatic output setting display flag 701 is ON, the process proceeds to step S813. On the other hand, if the CPU 107 determines that the automatic output setting display flag 701 is not ON, that is, if the CPU 107 determines that the automatic output setting display flag 701 is OFF, the flowchart of FIG. 8B ends.

[0037] In step S813, the CPU 107 (first display means) displays the automatic output setting screen 600 (first screen) on the display unit 103 (first display step). In step S814, the CPU 107 determines whether the OK button 608 on the automatic output setting screen 600 has been pressed. Note that the OK button 608 and the cancel button 609 on the automatic output setting screen 600 are pressed via a touch display realized by the display unit 103 and the operation unit 104. If the CPU 107 determines that the OK button 608 on the automatic output setting screen 600 has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S815. On the other hand, if the CPU 107 determines that the OK button 608 on the automatic output setting screen 600 has not been pressed, that is, if the CPU 107 determines that the cancel button 609 on the automatic output setting screen 600 has been pressed, the flowchart in FIG. 8B ends. At this time, the CPU 107 closes the automatic output setting screen 600.

[0038] In step S815, the CPU 107 (updating means) stores the selections made in the menus 601 to 607 on the automatic output setting screen 600 in the RAM 109 as the settings for each automatic output, i.e., the settings for each report 311 to 317 (updating step). This updates the settings for each automatic output, i.e., the settings for each report 311 to 317. In step S816, the CPU 107 (third switching means) switches the automatic output setting display flag 701 stored in the RAM 109 to OFF. The CPU 107 also closes the automatic output setting screen 600. This causes the CPU 107 to display the automatic output setting screen 600 on the display unit 103 only at the first startup after the setting for the print upper limit management 301 is changed to ON, i.e., only at the first startup after the image forming apparatus 101 enters the print upper limit management mode. The flowchart in FIG. 8B then ends.

[0039] As described above, when the image forming apparatus 101 enters the print upper limit management mode, the CPU 107 of the image forming apparatus 101 displays the automatic output setting screen 600 on the display unit 103 at the first startup thereafter. Furthermore, the CPU 107 updates the automatic output setting to OFF in accordance with the user's selection on the automatic output setting screen 600. This allows the user to update the automatic output setting to OFF depending on whether it is necessary. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 101 can reduce automatic outputs that are unnecessary for the user.

[0040] Furthermore, updating the automatic output setting to OFF in accordance with the user's selection on the automatic output setting screen 600 is convenient for users who want to avoid all automatic output settings being uniformly updated to OFF as in the first embodiment. Also, displaying the automatic output setting screen 600 on the display unit 103 at the first startup prevents the user from accidentally forgetting to update the automatic output setting to OFF. The above-mentioned points also apply to the case where step S816 is omitted and the automatic output setting screen 600 is displayed on the display unit 103 every time the image forming apparatus 101 is started.

[0041] Third Embodiment A third embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 9 to 11. In the third embodiment, a method will be described for displaying a message (1000 in FIG. 10 described later) or the like on the display unit 103 in the image forming apparatus 101 when the remaining number of printable sheets described below falls below a threshold, prompting the user to check (review) the automatic output settings. Note that in the third embodiment, only differences from the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram showing a print counter 901. The value of the print counter 901 is stored in the EEPROM 111. Note that when the image forming apparatus 101 is in the print upper limit management mode, the value of the print counter 901 is reset every month. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the display unit 103 when a message 1000 or the like is displayed. The message 1000 is displayed on a status line 1001 provided at the bottom of the display unit 103. The message 1000 contains text information indicating that the remaining number of printable sheets is becoming low and therefore the automatic output settings can be reviewed. In addition to the message 1000, an automatic output setting button 1002 is displayed on the status line 1001.

[0042] 11A is a flowchart showing a process when a message 1000 and an automatic output setting button 1002 are displayed on the display unit 103 according to the remaining number of printable sheets of the image forming apparatus 101. In step S1100, the CPU 107 determines whether the image forming apparatus 101 is in the print upper limit management mode. In this determination, if the setting of the print upper limit management 301 is ON, the image forming apparatus 101 is determined to be in the print upper limit management mode, and if the setting of the print upper limit management 301 is OFF, the image forming apparatus 101 is determined to be not in the print upper limit management mode. If the CPU 107 determines that the image forming apparatus 101 is in the print upper limit management mode, the process proceeds to step S1101. On the other hand, if the CPU 107 determines that the image forming apparatus 101 is not in the print upper limit management mode, the flowchart in FIG. 11A ends.

[0043] In step S1101, CPU 107 (acquisition means) acquires the remaining number of printable sheets (number of remaining sheets). At this time, CPU 107 reads the value of print upper limit number of sheets 302 and the value of print counter 901, which are stored in EEPROM 111. Furthermore, CPU 107 acquires the value obtained by subtracting the value of print counter 901 from the value of print upper limit number of sheets 302 as the remaining number of printable sheets. In step S1102, CPU 107 determines whether the remaining number of printable sheets is below a predetermined threshold. If CPU 107 determines that the remaining number of printable sheets is below the threshold, the process proceeds to step S1103. On the other hand, if CPU 107 determines that the remaining number of printable sheets is not below the threshold, the flowchart in FIG. 11A ends.

[0044] In step S1103, CPU 107 determines whether all automatic output settings are OFF. If CPU 107 determines that all automatic output setting values ​​are OFF, the flowchart in FIG. 11(a) ends. On the other hand, if CPU 107 determines that all automatic output setting values ​​are not OFF, that is, if CPU 107 determines that there is at least one automatic output that is not set to OFF, the process proceeds to step S1104. In step S1104, CPU 107 (third display means) displays message 1000 and automatic output setting button 1002 (display button) on status line 1001 of display unit 103. Thereafter, the flowchart in FIG. 11(a) ends.

[0045] 11B is a flowchart when the automatic output setting screen 600 is displayed on the display unit 103 of the image forming apparatus 101. In step S1111, the CPU 107 (display determination means) determines whether the automatic output setting button 1002 of the status line 1001 has been pressed. Note that the automatic output setting button 1002 of the status line 1001 is pressed via a touch display realized by the display unit 103 and the operation unit 104. If the CPU 107 determines that the automatic output setting button 1002 of the status line 1001 has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S1112. On the other hand, if the CPU 107 determines that the automatic output setting button 1002 of the status line 1001 has not been pressed, the process returns to step S1111. As a result, the CPU 107 repeats the determination process of step S1111 until the automatic output setting button 1002 of the status line 1001 is pressed.

[0046] In step S1112, the CPU 107 (first display means) displays the automatic output setting screen 600 on the display unit 103. In step S1113, the CPU 107 (non-display means) hides the message 1000 and the automatic output setting button 1002 in the status line 1001 of the display unit 103. As a result, when the user opens the automatic output setting screen 600 by pressing the automatic output setting button 1002, the message 1000 and the automatic output setting button 1002 are no longer displayed. Steps S1114 and S1115 are similar to steps S814 and S815 described above, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted. Thereafter, the flowchart of FIG. 11(b) ends.

[0047] As described above, in the image forming apparatus 101, when the remaining number of printable sheets becomes low and the user wants to reduce unnecessary automatic output, the message 1000 and the automatic output setting button 1002 are displayed on the display unit 103. At this time, the user can press the automatic output setting button 1002 to display the automatic output setting screen 600 on the display unit 103. This allows the user to review the automatic output settings in the above-mentioned situation. Furthermore, by viewing the message 1000, the user can reliably know that the above-mentioned situation exists. However, even if the message 1000 is omitted, the user can still review the automatic output settings in the above-mentioned situation. Furthermore, if all the automatic output setting values ​​are OFF in the above-mentioned situation, there is no need to review the automatic output settings, so the automatic output setting screen 600 is not displayed on the display unit 103. However, the automatic output setting screen 600 may be displayed on the display unit 103. In this case, the user can confirm that all the automatic output setting values ​​are OFF in the above-mentioned situation.

[0048] <Fourth embodiment> A fourth embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13. In the fourth embodiment, when the setting of the print upper limit management 301 in the image forming apparatus 101 is changed to ON, a method will be described in which all automatic output settings are updated to OFF according to a user's selection, rather than forcibly as in the first embodiment. Note that in the fourth embodiment, only differences from the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a first selection screen 1200. The first selection screen 1200 is displayed as a pop-up on the display unit 103 of the image forming apparatus 101. The first selection screen 1200 allows the user to select whether to set all automatic output settings to OFF. For this reason, the first selection screen 1200 has a Yes button 1201 and a No button 1202. In addition to predetermined template messages, the first selection screen 1200 also displays the names of automatic outputs whose settings are other than OFF (in the example of FIG. 12, a transmission result report, a communication management report, and a fax box reception report).

[0049] 13 is a flowchart when first selection screen 1200 is displayed as a pop-up on display unit 103. Steps S1300 and S1301 are similar to steps S500 and S501 described above, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted. In step S1302, CPU 107 (display means) displays first selection screen 1200 (screen) as a pop-up on display unit 103. In step S1303, CPU 107 determines whether or not Yes button 1201 on first selection screen 1200 has been pressed. Note that the Yes button 1201 or No button 1202 on first selection screen 1200 is pressed via a touch display realized by display unit 103 and operation unit 104.

[0050] If CPU 107 determines that Yes button 1201 on first selection screen 1200 has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S1304. On the other hand, if CPU 107 determines that Yes button 1201 on first selection screen 1200 has not been pressed, that is, if CPU 107 determines that No button 1202 on first selection screen 1200 has been pressed, the flowchart in Fig. 12 ends. Step S1304 is similar to step S502 described above, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted. Thereafter, the flowchart in Fig. 12 ends.

[0051] As described above, when the image forming apparatus 101 enters the print upper limit management mode, the CPU 107 of the image forming apparatus 101 updates all automatic output settings to OFF in accordance with the user's selection on the first selection screen 1200 displayed on the display unit 103. This allows the user to update all automatic output settings to OFF depending on whether they are necessary. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 101 can reduce automatic outputs that are unnecessary for the user. Furthermore, by looking at the names of the automatic outputs displayed on the first selection screen 1200, the user can confirm in advance which automatic outputs will be updated from ON or error-only to OFF by pressing the Yes button 1201. Note that the names of all automatic outputs may be displayed on the first selection screen 1200. In this case, by looking at these names, the user can confirm each automatic output that will be set to OFF after pressing the Yes button 1201, before pressing the Yes button 1201.

[0052] Fifth Embodiment A fifth embodiment will be described below with reference to Fig. 14. In the fifth embodiment, when the setting of print upper limit management 301 in the image forming apparatus 101 is changed to ON, a method will be described in which only the setting of a predetermined automatic output is updated to OFF, rather than all settings as in the first embodiment. Note that in the fifth embodiment, only the differences from the first embodiment will be described. Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing a linkage process in which only the setting of a predetermined automatic output in the image forming apparatus 101 is updated to OFF in linkage with the setting of print upper limit management 301 in the image forming apparatus 101 being changed to ON.

[0053] Steps S1400 and S1401 are similar to steps S500 and S501 described above, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted. In step S1402, CPU 107 (update means) turns off only predetermined automatic output settings among all automatic output settings stored in RAM 109. Specifically, CPU 107 updates the settings of reports 311-317, for example, reports 311-312 and 314-317, to OFF, while leaving the setting of report 313 ON. This enables a situation where automatic output of a result report for each transmission and reception is not necessary, but communication management reports that are output in batches remain automatically output. Note that the combination of reports 311-317 whose settings are updated to OFF is not limited to the specific example described above. The flowchart of FIG. 14 then ends.

[0054] As described above, when the image forming apparatus 101 enters the print upper limit management mode, the CPU 107 of the image forming apparatus 101 updates the setting of the predetermined automatic output to OFF. This allows the image forming apparatus 101 to reduce automatic outputs that are unnecessary for the user. Furthermore, by predetermining the predetermined automatic output whose setting is to be updated to OFF, the CPU 107 of the image forming apparatus 101 can leave the settings of other automatic outputs unchanged. Note that in the fifth embodiment, the CPU 107 may also display on the display unit 103 a screen similar to the first selection screen 1200 of the fourth embodiment, i.e., a screen that allows the user to select whether to turn OFF the value of the predetermined automatic output setting. In this case, the CPU 107 may display the name of the predetermined automatic output on the screen, as in the fourth embodiment, or may display the name of the predetermined automatic output that is updated from ON or only in the event of an error to OFF on the screen.

[0055] Sixth Embodiment A sixth embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16. In the sixth embodiment, a method will be described in which, when the image forming apparatus 101 is first started after the setting of the print upper limit management 301 has been changed to ON, the automatic output setting screen 600 is displayed on the display unit 103 according to a user's selection, rather than being forced as in the second embodiment. Note that, in the sixth embodiment, only differences from the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a second selection screen 1500. The second selection screen 1500 is displayed as a pop-up on the display unit 103 of the image forming apparatus 101. The second selection screen 1500 allows the user to select whether or not to display the automatic output setting screen 600 on the display unit 103 when the image forming apparatus 101 is first started after the setting of the print upper limit management 301 has been changed to ON. Therefore, the second selection screen 1500 has a Yes button 1501 and a No button 1502. Furthermore, a predetermined template is displayed on the second selection screen 1500.

[0056] 16 is a flowchart when second selection screen 1500 is displayed as a pop-up on display unit 103. Steps S1600 and S1601 are similar to steps S500 and S501 described above, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted. In step S1602, CPU 107 (second display means) displays second selection screen 1500 (second screen) as a pop-up on display unit 103. In step S1603, CPU 107 determines whether or not Yes button 1501 on second selection screen 1500 has been pressed. Note that the Yes button 1501 or No button 1502 on second selection screen 1500 is pressed via a touch display realized by display unit 103 and operation unit 104.

[0057] If CPU 107 determines that Yes button 1501 on second selection screen 1500 has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S1604. On the other hand, if CPU 107 determines that Yes button 1501 on second selection screen 1500 has not been pressed, that is, if CPU 107 determines that No button 1502 on second selection screen 1500 has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S1605, which will be described later. In step S1604, CPU 107 (second switching means) switches the automatic output setting display flag 701 stored in RAM 109 to ON. Thereafter, the flowchart of FIG. 16 ends. In step S1605, CPU 107 (second switching means) switches the automatic output setting display flag 701 stored in RAM 109 to OFF. Thereafter, the flowchart of FIG. 16 ends. Note that the processes subsequent to the flowchart of FIG. 16 are the same as the processes shown in the flowchart of FIG. 8(b) described in the second embodiment.

[0058] As described above, when the image forming apparatus 101 enters the print upper limit management mode, the CPU 107 of the image forming apparatus 101 displays the automatic output setting screen 600 on the display unit 103 in accordance with the user's selection on the second selection screen 1500 displayed on the display unit 103 at the time of initial startup thereafter. This allows the user to display the automatic output setting screen 600 on the display unit 103 in accordance with the operation of the image forming apparatus 101. Furthermore, the CPU 107 updates the automatic output setting to OFF in accordance with the user's selection on the automatic output setting screen 600 displayed on the display unit 103. This allows the user to update the automatic output setting to OFF depending on whether it is necessary. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 101 can reduce automatic outputs that are unnecessary for the user.

[0059] While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and various modifications and variations are possible within the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, in each embodiment, the image forming apparatus 101 described as an example of the present invention is a multifunction peripheral (MFP). However, the present invention is not limited to this and may be, for example, a facsimile machine, printer, copier, or other device having a function related to automatic output settings. The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above embodiments to a system or device via a network or 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., an ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0060] The disclosure of each embodiment includes the following configurations, methods, and programs. (Configuration 1) An image forming apparatus that, when an automatic output condition is satisfied, automatically outputs paper if the automatic output setting is ON, and does not automatically output paper if the automatic output setting is OFF, An image forming apparatus characterized by comprising an update means for updating the automatic output setting to OFF when the image forming apparatus enters an upper limit management mode in which up to a predetermined number of sheets can be output for a predetermined amount. (Configuration 2) The image forming apparatus according to configuration 1, wherein the update unit updates all of the automatic output settings to OFF. (Configuration 3) A display unit is provided for displaying a screen on a display unit to prompt a user to select whether to turn off all of the automatic output settings when the image forming apparatus enters the upper limit management mode, 3. The image forming apparatus according to configuration 2, wherein the update unit updates all of the automatic output settings to OFF in accordance with a user's selection on the screen. (Configuration 4) The image forming apparatus according to Configuration 3, wherein the display means displays on the screen the name of the automatic output whose setting is updated from a setting other than OFF to OFF by the update means, among all the automatic outputs. (Configuration 5) The image forming apparatus according to configuration 3, wherein the display means displays the names of all the automatic outputs on the screen. (Configuration 6) The image forming apparatus according to configuration 1, wherein the update unit updates the predetermined setting of the automatic output to OFF. (Configuration 7) A display unit is provided for displaying a screen on a display unit to prompt a user to select whether to turn off the predetermined setting of the automatic output when the image forming apparatus is in the upper limit management mode, 7. The image forming apparatus according to configuration 6, wherein the update unit updates the predetermined setting of the automatic output to OFF in accordance with a user's selection on the screen. (Configuration 8) The image forming apparatus according to configuration 7, wherein the display means displays a predetermined name of the automatic output on the screen. (Configuration 9) The image forming apparatus according to Configuration 7, wherein the display means displays on the screen the name of the automatic output whose setting is updated from a setting other than OFF to OFF by the update means, among the predetermined automatic outputs. (Configuration 10) An image forming apparatus that, when an automatic output condition is satisfied, automatically outputs paper if the automatic output setting is ON, and does not automatically output paper if the automatic output setting is OFF, a display determination means for determining whether a screen display condition is satisfied; a first display means for displaying a first screen on a display unit to allow a user to select a setting for the automatic output when the display determination means determines that the condition for screen display is satisfied; and and updating means for updating the setting of the automatic output to OFF in accordance with a user's selection on the first screen. (Configuration 11) A first switching means is provided for switching a flag to ON when the image forming apparatus is in an upper limit management mode in which up to a predetermined number of sheets can be output for a predetermined amount of money, The image forming apparatus according to configuration 10, characterized in that when the image forming apparatus is started, if the flag is ON, the display determination means determines that the conditions for screen display are met, and if the flag is OFF, the display determination means determines that the conditions for screen display are not met. (Configuration 12) A second display means displays a second screen on the display unit to allow a user to select whether or not to display the first screen on the display unit when the image forming device enters an upper limit management mode in which the image forming device can output up to a predetermined number of sheets for a predetermined amount of money; a second switching means for switching the flag between ON and OFF in accordance with a user's selection on the second screen, The image forming apparatus according to configuration 10, characterized in that when the image forming apparatus is started, if the flag is ON, the display determination means determines that the conditions for screen display are met, and if the flag is OFF, the display determination means determines that the conditions for screen display are not met. (Configuration 13) The image forming apparatus according to configuration 11 or 12, further comprising a third switching means for switching the flag to OFF when the first screen is displayed on the display unit. (Configuration 14) An acquisition unit for acquiring the remaining number of sheets that can be output when the image forming device is in an upper limit management mode in which up to a predetermined number of sheets can be output for a predetermined amount of money; a third display means for displaying a display button on the display unit to cause the first screen to be displayed when the remaining number falls below a threshold value; 14. The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 10 to 13, wherein the display determining means determines that the conditions for displaying the screen are satisfied when the display button is pressed. (Configuration 15) The image forming apparatus described in Configuration 14, wherein the third display means displays the display button on the display unit when the remaining number of sheets falls below a threshold value and all of the automatic output settings are not OFF. (Configuration 16) The image forming apparatus according to configuration 14 or 15, further comprising a non-display unit that makes the display button non-displayable when the first screen is displayed. (Configuration 17) The image forming apparatus according to configuration 14, wherein the third display means displays, in addition to the display button, a message on the display unit indicating that the number of remaining sheets is getting low. (Configuration 18) The image forming apparatus described in Configuration 17, characterized in that the third display means displays the display button and the message on the display unit when the remaining number of sheets falls below a threshold value and all of the automatic output settings are not OFF. (Configuration 19) The image forming apparatus according to configuration 17 or 18, further comprising a non-display unit that hides the display button and the message when the first screen is displayed. (Configuration 20) An image forming device according to any one of configurations 1 to 19, characterized in that the paper that is automatically output when the conditions for automatic output are met is paper on which a report about a job of the image forming device is printed. (Method 1) A control method for an image forming apparatus, in which, when an automatic output condition is satisfied, if the automatic output setting is ON, a sheet is automatically output, and if the automatic output setting is OFF, a sheet is not automatically output, A control method for an image forming device, characterized by including an update process for updating the automatic output setting to OFF when the image forming device enters an upper limit management mode in which up to a specified number of sheets can be output for a specified amount. (Method 2) A control method for an image forming apparatus, in which, when a condition for automatic output is satisfied, a sheet is automatically output if the setting for the automatic output is ON, and a sheet is not automatically output if the setting for the automatic output is OFF, a display determination step of determining whether a screen display condition is satisfied; a first display step of displaying a first screen on a display unit to allow a user to select a setting for the automatic output when the display determination step determines that the condition for screen display is satisfied; an updating step of updating the automatic output setting to OFF in accordance with a user's selection on the first screen. (Program 1) A program for causing a computer to execute each means of the image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 20. [Explanation of symbols]

[0061] 101 Image forming device 103 Display section 107 CPU (update means) (display determination means) (first display means) 600 Automatic output setting screen (first screen)

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus that, when an automatic output condition is satisfied, automatically outputs paper if the setting of the automatic output is ON, and does not automatically output paper if the setting of the automatic output is OFF, An image forming apparatus characterized by comprising an update means for updating the automatic output setting to OFF when the image forming apparatus enters an upper limit management mode in which up to a predetermined number of sheets can be output for a predetermined amount.

2. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the update unit updates all of the automatic output settings to OFF.

3. a display unit that displays a screen on a display unit to allow a user to select whether to turn off all of the automatic output settings when the image forming apparatus enters the upper limit management mode, 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the updating unit updates all of the automatic output settings to OFF in accordance with a user's selection on the screen.

4. 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the display unit displays on the screen the name of the automatic output whose setting is updated from a setting other than OFF to OFF by the update unit, among all the automatic outputs.

5. 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein said display means displays the names of all of said automatic outputs on said screen.

6. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the update unit updates the predetermined setting of the automatic output to OFF.

7. a display unit that displays a screen on a display unit to allow a user to select whether to turn off a predetermined setting of the automatic output when the image forming apparatus enters the upper limit management mode, 7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the update unit updates the predetermined setting of the automatic output to OFF in accordance with a user's selection on the screen.

8. 8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the display unit displays a predetermined name of the automatic output on the screen.

9. 8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the display unit displays on the screen the name of the automatic output whose setting is updated from a setting other than OFF to OFF by the update unit, among the predetermined automatic outputs.

10. An image forming apparatus that, when an automatic output condition is satisfied, automatically outputs paper if the setting of the automatic output is ON, and does not automatically output paper if the setting of the automatic output is OFF, a display determination means for determining whether a screen display condition is satisfied; a first display means for displaying a first screen on a display unit to allow a user to select a setting for the automatic output when the display determination means determines that the condition for screen display is satisfied; and and updating means for updating the setting of the automatic output to OFF in accordance with a user's selection on the first screen.

11. a first switching means for switching a flag to ON when the image forming apparatus is in an upper limit management mode in which a predetermined number of sheets can be output for a predetermined amount of money; The image forming apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the display determination means determines that the conditions for screen display are met if the flag is ON when the image forming apparatus is started, and determines that the conditions for screen display are not met if the flag is OFF.

12. a second display means for displaying a second screen on the display unit to allow a user to select whether or not to display the first screen on the display unit when the image forming apparatus enters an upper limit management mode in which up to a predetermined number of sheets can be output for a predetermined amount of money; a second switching means for switching a flag between ON and OFF in accordance with a user's selection on the second screen, The image forming apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the display determination means determines that the conditions for screen display are met if the flag is ON when the image forming apparatus is started, and determines that the conditions for screen display are not met if the flag is OFF.

13. 13. The image forming apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising a third switching unit that switches the flag to OFF when the first screen is displayed on the display unit.

14. an acquisition unit for acquiring the remaining number of sheets that can be output when the image forming apparatus is in an upper limit management mode in which up to a predetermined number of sheets can be output for a predetermined amount of money; a third display means for displaying a display button on the display unit to cause the first screen to be displayed when the remaining number falls below a threshold value; 11. The image forming apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the display determining unit determines that the condition for displaying the screen is satisfied when the display button is pressed.

15. 15. The image forming apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the third display unit displays the display button on the display unit when the remaining number of sheets falls below a threshold value and all of the automatic output settings are not OFF.

16. 16. The image forming apparatus according to claim 14, further comprising: a non-display unit that makes the display button non-displayable when the first screen is displayed.

17. 15. The image forming apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the third display means displays, in addition to the display button, a message on the display unit indicating that the number of remaining sheets is getting low.

18. 18. The image forming apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the third display means displays the display button and the message on the display unit when the remaining number of sheets falls below a threshold value and all of the automatic output settings are not OFF.

19. 19. The image forming apparatus according to claim 17, further comprising: a non-display unit that hides the display button and the message when the first screen is displayed.

20. 11. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the paper that is automatically output when the conditions for automatic output are satisfied is a paper on which a report about a job of the image forming apparatus is printed.

21. A control method for an image forming apparatus, which, when an automatic output condition is satisfied, automatically outputs paper if the automatic output setting is ON, and does not automatically output paper if the automatic output setting is OFF, A control method for an image forming device, characterized by including an update step of updating the automatic output setting to OFF when the image forming device enters an upper limit management mode in which it can output up to a specified number of sheets for a specified amount.

22. A control method for an image forming apparatus, which, when an automatic output condition is satisfied, automatically outputs paper if the automatic output setting is ON, and does not automatically output paper if the automatic output setting is OFF, a display determination step of determining whether a screen display condition is satisfied; a first display step of displaying a first screen on a display unit to allow a user to select a setting for the automatic output when the display determination step determines that the condition for screen display is satisfied; an updating step of updating the automatic output setting to OFF in accordance with a user's selection on the first screen.

23. 11. A program for causing a computer to execute each unit of the image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

Images