Information processing device and print control method

Abstract

This invention provides an information processing device and a print control method that can control the display timing of the print execution screen for content other than the content currently being printed. [Solution] The multifunction device 10, as an information processing device, includes a display unit that displays a service screen and a print execution screen that accepts a print execution instruction for content selected by the user, and a control unit that can control the print processing of content selected by the user and the selection processing of other content different from the content being printed in parallel. The control unit, if the print processing of content is completed while the selection processing of other content is in progress, displays a print execution screen that accepts a print execution instruction for the other content after the selection processing of the other content is completed, and if the selection processing of other content is completed while the print processing of content is in progress, displays a print execution screen that accepts a print execution instruction for the other content after the print processing of content is completed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus and the like.

Background Art

[0002] For example, in Patent Document 1, when an operation unit receives a job command involving another image reading during printing execution by a printing unit, the image reading unit executes image reading related to the job in a power saving priority operation mode, thereby reducing power consumption while improving productivity. An image forming apparatus capable of this is disclosed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] One of the objects of the present disclosure is to provide an information processing apparatus and the like capable of controlling the display timing of a printing execution screen of other content different from the content during printing execution.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] To solve the above problems, the information processing device according to this disclosure includes a display unit that displays a service screen that displays content that can be provided as a service, a print execution screen that receives a print execution instruction for content selected by the user based on the content displayed on the service screen, and a control unit that can control in parallel the print processing of the content selected by the user and the selection processing of other content different from the content related to the print processing via the service screen, wherein the control unit displays a print execution screen that receives a print execution instruction for the other content after the selection processing of the other content is completed if the print processing of the content is completed, and displays a print execution screen that receives a print execution instruction for the other content after the print processing of the content is completed if the selection processing of the other content is completed if the print processing of the content is completed.

[0006] Furthermore, the print control method relating to this disclosure displays a service screen on a display device that displays content that can be provided as a service, and a print execution screen that receives a print execution instruction from the user based on the content displayed on the service screen. A print control method that controls in parallel the printing process of the content selected by the user and the selection process of other content different from the content to which the printing process is performed, characterized in that if the printing process of the content is completed while the selection process of the other content is in progress, a print execution screen that accepts a print execution instruction for the other content is displayed after the selection process of the other content is completed, and if the selection process of the other content is completed while the printing process of the content is in progress, a print execution screen that accepts a print execution instruction for the other content is displayed after the printing process of the content is completed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide an information processing device, etc., that can control the display timing of a print execution screen for content other than the content currently being printed. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This diagram illustrates the connection configuration of the multifunction device to the content server according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a diagram illustrating the external appearance of a multifunction printer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This diagram illustrates the functional configuration of a multifunction device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a diagram illustrating the unit price information table according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a diagram illustrating the job list according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] This is a sequence diagram illustrating the relationship between the operation / behavior and screen transitions in the second embodiment. [Figure 13] This figure illustrates a modified example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] This is a diagram illustrating the conventional technology. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] An embodiment for implementing this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiment is merely an example for illustrating this disclosure, and the technical scope of the invention as described in the claims is not limited to the following description.

[0010] In recent years, a wide variety of content has been sold on information processing devices such as multifunction printers installed in convenience stores and other locations. Customers, or users, operate the information processing device's screen to select and purchase the desired content from a large selection of images. Here, the content related to this disclosure refers to creative works intended to provide entertainment or education, or the contents, meanings, and valuable information contained therein, including images displayed on the operation screen or printed materials such as recording paper with such images printed on them.

[0011] Recent content has high resolution and large data size, which tends to increase the time required to print it using information processing equipment (such as dye-sublimation printers).

[0012] Furthermore, when purchasing content, the user selects the desired content on the information processing device's operation screen, and then, after receiving a print command (for example, selecting the start button), printing of the content begins. However, conventional technology had the following problems. (1) When a user wishes to purchase content from different providers (vendors), the content will be traded with different parties, making it currently difficult to print and purchase content from different vendors all at once. (2) During the printing of the content, for example, as shown in Fig. 14(a), a screen indicating that the content is being printed (printing status screen) is continuously displayed. After the printing is completed, as shown in Fig. 14(b), a screen indicating that the printing has been completed (printing completion screen) is displayed. By operating an operation key such as the "Continue Service" button provided on the printing completion screen, the user can purchase the content repeatedly. However, in this case, the screen transitions to a screen where only the content provided by the same vendor can be purchased, so the user cannot select the content they desire to purchase from a large number of contents.

[0013] (3) When the user selects the content they desire to purchase from a large number of contents, they need to exit the printing completion screen and once again display the portal screen (initial screen). However, since this is a new operation from the beginning, it is time-consuming for the user.

[0014] The information processing apparatus of the present disclosure that solves the above problems will be described in the following embodiments while referring to the drawings. Note that the following embodiments illustrate an example of the invention described in the claims, and the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the description of the following embodiments.

[0015] [1 First Embodiment] [1.1 Functional Configuration] [1.1.1 Regarding the Multifunction Machine 10] Fig. 1 is a diagram for explaining an example of the connection form of the multifunction machine 10 as an information processing apparatus to the content server 20. Fig. 2 is a diagram for explaining the appearance of the multifunction machine 10, and Fig. 3 is a diagram for explaining the functional configuration of the multifunction machine 10.

[0016] The multifunction printer 10 is an information processing device that is installed in highly public places such as convenience stores or designated commercial facilities, and is capable of performing jobs related to various functions such as copying, faxing, scanning, and emailing in a single enclosure. Such a multifunction printer 10 is configured to be able to communicate with a content server 20 via a network NW. In this disclosure, the multifunction printer 10 is described as an example of an information processing device, but there are no particular restrictions on the configuration of the information processing device as long as it is configured to acquire content from the content server 20 via a network NW and print (output) it as a printed document.

[0017] Such a multifunction device 10 includes a control unit 11, an operation panel unit 13, a communication unit 15, an image processing unit 17, a storage unit 19, a reader unit 21, and a billing unit 23.

[0018] The control unit 11 comprehensively controls the entire multifunction device 10. The control unit 11 can be composed of one or more arithmetic units (e.g., a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a SoC (System on Chip)), etc. The control unit 11 realizes the functions of the multifunction device 10 by reading and executing various programs stored in the memory unit 19.

[0019] The control panel 13 displays various information and accepts operation instructions from the user. The control panel 13 can be configured, for example, as a touch panel in which a display unit 131 and an operation unit 133 are integrally formed.

[0020] The display unit 131 is a display device that displays various information. The display unit 131 can be made up of a display device such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, or a microLED (Light Emitting Diode) display. The operation unit 133 is an input device that receives operation instructions from the user. The operation unit 133 can be made up as an operation screen that receives operation instructions from the user using a touch sensor capable of detecting input by contact (touch). The method of detecting input in the touch sensor can be a general input method such as a resistive touch method, an infrared touch method, an electromagnetic induction method, or a capacitive touch method.

[0021] The communication unit 15 is a communication device that communicates with other devices such as the content server 20. The communication unit 15 is equipped with either a wired or wireless interface, or both, for communicating with other devices via a network NW such as a LAN (Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), the Internet, a telephone line, or a fax line. The communication unit 15 may also be equipped with interfaces related to short-range wireless communication technologies such as Bluetooth®, NFC (Near Field Communication), Wi-Fi®, ZigBee®, IrDA (Infrared Data Association), or Wireless USB (Universal Serial Bus).

[0022] The image processing unit 17 includes an image forming unit 171 and an image input unit 173. The image forming unit 171 forms (prints) an image on a recording medium such as recording paper. The image forming unit 171 can be configured, for example, as a dye-sublimation printer. The image input unit 173 can be configured, for example, as a scanner device equipped with an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or CIS (Contact Image Sensor), as well as an automatic document feeder (ADF) or a flatbed for placing and scanning documents.

[0023] The memory unit 19 is one or more storage devices that store various programs and data necessary for the operation of the multifunction printer 10. The memory unit 19 can be composed of storage devices such as RAM (Random Access Memory), SSD (Solid State Drive), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), and ROM (Read Only Memory).

[0024] In the first embodiment, the storage unit 19 stores a control program 191, a display control program 192, a job control program 193, a content processing program 194, and a billing processing program 195, and reserves a setting information storage area 196, a billing information storage area 197, a content storage area 198, and a job storage area 199.

[0025] The control program 191 is a program that the control unit 11 reads after the multifunction printer 10 is started up. After reading the control program 191, the control unit 11 functions as an OS (Operating System) and controls the operation of hardware such as the operation panel unit 13, communication unit 15, image processing unit 17, reader unit 21, and billing unit 23.

[0026] The display control program 192 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when performing output control on the operation panel unit 13. After reading the display control program 192, the control unit 11 controls the display of selection screens (operation screens) such as the service screen, print execution screen, and print status screen, which will be described later.

[0027] The job control program 193 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when executing print jobs such as print and copy, or sending jobs such as email. After reading the job control program 193, the control unit 11 changes the device mode to the job mode for executing each job and executes the various jobs. When executing a job, the control unit 11 can display a job setting screen on the operation panel 13 as needed, which accepts the selection of settings and functions required for job execution from the user. The control unit 11 executes the job based on the settings and functions received via the job setting screen.

[0028] The content processing program 194 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when controlling the selection process of content that the user wishes to purchase, and when controlling the screen transition to the selection screen that accepts the instruction to select said content. After reading the content processing program 194, the control unit 11 comprehensively controls the operations (processing) related to the output of the content as a printed material.

[0029] The billing processing program 195 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when a fee is incurred for printing (service) content. After reading the billing processing program 195, the control unit 11 comprehensively controls the billing process related to the printing of content.

[0030] The setting information storage area 196 is a storage area that stores setting values ​​and selection information received by the user via a setting screen (not shown), as well as various setting information necessary for the operation of the multifunction device 10.

[0031] The billing information storage area 197 is a storage area that stores information such as the unit price of content necessary for billing according to the service, and the calculated total billing amount.

[0032] Content storage area 198 is a storage area capable of storing content acquired from content server 20.

[0033] Job storage area 199 is a storage area that stores jobs related to printing content as a job list.

[0034] The reader unit 21 connects to an external storage medium such as a USB memory stick, SD card, micro SD card, or CompactFlash®, and acquires image data from the external storage medium. The reader unit 21 can be configured with terminals for connecting to the external storage medium and a reading device for the external storage medium such as a CD-ROM / DVD drive. The reader unit 21 may also be a media reader / writer capable of reading data from and writing data to the external storage medium.

[0035] The billing unit 23 is a device that accepts the insertion of coins and banknotes. The billing unit 23 includes, for example, a deposit unit 231 that accepts deposits from users and a return unit 233 that returns (refunds) the balance (the amount obtained by subtracting the charge amount from the deposit amount). The deposit unit 231 is configured to have an insertion slot for accepting the insertion of coins and banknotes.

[0036] The deposit unit 231 may be equipped with a sensor to detect inserted coins and banknotes, and may be capable of detecting when a deposit has been made by a user and the amount deposited. The return unit 233 is configured to have a return slot for returning coins and banknotes. The billing unit 23 may also be equipped with a refund lever or refund button to accept refund requests from users.

[0037] [1.1.2 About Content Server 20] The content server 20 is a distribution server that provides a service for delivering content requested by the multifunction printer 10. Since the content server 20 can utilize servers or cloud services operated by the vendor providing the content, a detailed explanation of its functional configuration is omitted.

[0038] [1.2 Processing Flow] Next, the processing flow according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating the process from the selection of content desired by the user as a customer to outputting (printing) it as a printed document. The process described in Figure 4 is executed by the control unit 11 by reading the control program 191, display control program 192, job control program 193, content processing program 194, billing processing program 195, etc.

[0039] The control unit 11 communicates with the content server 20 as needed to obtain information on the content available from the content server 20, its unit price, etc., and the following process will be described.

[0040] When the control unit 11 receives an operation instruction from the user, such as a touch or swipe, it displays the main menu screen (portal screen) on the operation panel unit 13 (step S11).

[0041] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the content service displayed as selectable on the main menu screen has been selected by the user (step S13). If it determines that the content service has been selected by the user, the control unit 11 displays the content service screen (step S13; Yes → step S15). If the control unit 11 determines that the content service has not been selected by the user, it waits until the content service is selected (step S13; No).

[0042] The control unit 11 determines whether the user has selected a genre to which the content belongs (content genre) from among the genres that are available for selection on the content service screen (step S17). If it determines that the user has selected a content genre, the control unit 11 displays a content selection screen that accepts instructions to select content belonging to that content genre (step S17; Yes → step S19). If the control unit 11 determines that no content genre has been selected, it waits until that content genre is selected (step S17; No).

[0043] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the user has selected the first content from among the content displayed for selection on the content selection screen (step S21). If it determines that the user has selected the content, the control unit 11 calculates the total charge amount, which is the total amount of charges for providing the content (step S21; Yes → step S23). If the control unit 11 determines that no content has been selected, it waits until the content is selected (step S21; No).

[0044] After the total charge calculation process is completed, the control unit 11 updates the job list that manages the jobs related to printing the selected content (step S25). The control unit 11 generates the job list if the job related to printing the content selected in step S21 is the first job.

[0045] Next, the control unit 11 displays a print execution screen that accepts a print execution instruction for the content (step S27). In this case, the print execution screen displayed may show the total charge for printing the content calculated in step S23.

[0046] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the print execution screen is a print execution screen based on a selection instruction for content with different content (step S29). If it determines that the print execution screen is based on a selection instruction for content with different content, the control unit 11 returns the process to the total charge amount calculation process related to step S23 (step S29; Yes → step S23).

[0047] On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the print execution screen is not based on a selection instruction for content with different content, it determines whether or not it has received a print execution instruction via the print execution screen (step S29; No → step S31). If it determines that it has received a print execution instruction, the control unit 11 executes the printing of the content (step S31; Yes → step S33). Here, the print execution instruction may include settlement processing for the displayed total charge amount. If the control unit 11 determines that it has not received a print execution instruction, it waits until it receives input for the print execution instruction (step S31; No).

[0048] Upon execution of printing the content, the control unit 11 stores the total charge amount calculated in step S23 (step S35) and displays a print status screen showing the printing status of the content (step S37). The total charge amount may also be stored as a management item in the job list updated (created) in step S25.

[0049] Then, the control unit 11 determines, via the print status screen, whether or not it has received an instruction from the user to select other content as the second content (step S39). If it determines that it has received an instruction from the user to select other content, the control unit 11 transitions the screen from the currently displayed print status screen to the content service screen (step S39; Yes → step S15).

[0050] On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the user has not given an instruction to select other content, it determines whether the user has given an instruction to select content of the same genre as a third content (step S39; No → step S41). If it determines that the user has given an instruction to select content of the same genre, the control unit 11 transitions the screen from the currently displayed print status screen to the content selection screen (step S41; Yes → step S19).

[0051] On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the user has not instructed the selection of content of the same genre, it determines whether the user has instructed the selection of content with different content as a fourth content (step S41; No → step S43). If it determines that the user has instructed the selection of content with different content, the control unit 11 transitions the screen from the currently displayed print status screen to the print execution screen (step S43; Yes → step S27). Note that in steps S39 to S43, if the screen transitions to the content service screen, content selection screen, or print execution screen, the control unit 11 restricts the display of the print completion screen for the first content, even if printing related to the first content is completed.

[0052] On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that it has not received instructions from users to select different content, it determines whether or not the printing of the content executed in step S33 has been completed (step S43; No → step S45).

[0053] If the control unit 11 determines that the printing of the content is complete, it deletes the total charge amount stored in step S35 (step S45; Yes → step S47). The control unit 11 may also delete the job list at the same time as deleting the total charge amount. Then, the control unit 11 displays a print completion screen and terminates the process (step S49). On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the printing of the content is not complete, it waits until the printing of the content is complete (step S45; No).

[0054] Next, the process for calculating the total charge amount related to step S23 in Figure 4 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 5.

[0055] When processing begins, the control unit 11 reads the total amount of charges stored in the storage unit 19 (step S231).

[0056] Next, the control unit 11 obtains the unit price information of the selected content (step S232) and calculates the charge amount by multiplying the unit price of the content by the number of copies to be printed (step S233).

[0057] Then, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the content is being printed for the first time (step S234). In this case, the control unit 11 can determine whether or not the content is being printed for the first time by checking whether or not the total amount read in step S231 is 0 yen.

[0058] If the control unit 11 determines that the content is being printed for the first time, it sets the amount calculated in step S233 as the total charge and terminates the process (step S234; Yes → Terminate). On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the content is not being printed for the first time, it adds the amount calculated in step S233 to the total charge read in step S231 as the total charge and terminates the process (step S234; No → step S235 → Terminate).

[0059] Here, the billing information stored in the billing information storage area 197 of the storage unit 19 will be explained with reference to Figure 6. The billing information according to the first embodiment includes at least unit price information related to the unit price of content.

[0060] For example, Figure 6 is an example of a pricing information table that manages pricing information for content provided by each vendor. Note that pricing information is not limited to a table format; it may also be managed in a database format, for example.

[0061] The unit price information table includes the following management items: vendor, content genre, content ID, and unit price (yen). The vendor represents the name of the vendor providing the content as a service. The content genre represents the genre to which the content belongs. The content ID is an identifier used to uniquely identify the content. The unit price (yen) represents the unit price of the content.

[0062] Figure 6 is an example of a table showing the unit price information for content provided as a service by vendors “Image Print Service”, “Map Service”, and “AAA Newspaper Company”. In Figure 6, for example, it is shown that the content that vendor “Image Print Service” can provide is content ID “gazou_aaa_A1~A3….” which belongs to the content genre “Image Print”, and content ID “gazou_bbb_B1, B2….” which is different content from “gazou_aaa_A1~A3….” Note that each content identified by content ID “gazou_aaa_A1~A3” is the same content, but the content is different. In addition, it is shown that the unit price (yen) for content ID “gazou_aaa_A1~A3…” is “300” (yen), and the unit price for content ID “gazou_bbb_B1, B2…” is “200” (yen).

[0063] Figure 7 shows an example of a job list that manages jobs related to printing content selected by the user. Note that the job list is not limited to the table format shown in Figure 7; it may also be managed in a database format, for example.

[0064] The job list illustrated in Figure 7 includes the number of times, content ID, content genre, vendor, number of copies printed, and total charge (yen) as management items. Here, the content ID, content genre, and vendor are the same management items as those explained in the unit price information table in Figure 6, so their explanation is omitted here.

[0065] The print quantity represents the number of copies of the content set by the user to be printed. The total charge represents the total charge calculated by the total charge calculation process in step S23 of Figure 4. In Figure 7, for example, "1" represents the first job for printing content ID "0123456A1", with a print quantity of "1" and a total charge of "50" yen. Similarly, "2" represents the second job for content ID "98765432", with a print quantity of "2" and a total charge of "450" ​​yen (see the unit price information table in Figure 6 for the calculation of the total charge).

[0066] Figure 7 shows that at least six jobs related to printing content were performed, and that these six content print jobs resulted in a charge of 1550 yen.

[0067] [1.3 Example of Operation] Next, an example of operation of the first embodiment will be described. Using Figures 8 and 9, an example of operation in which a job related to printing content selected by the user is executed, accompanied by screen transitions, will be described.

[0068] Figure 8(a) illustrates one example configuration of the main menu screen W10. The main menu screen W10 is a menu screen that is displayed when the multifunction device 10 is started up or when it wakes up from sleep mode based on user input such as touch or swipe via the operation panel 13.

[0069] The main menu screen W10 includes a service menu list display area R10 and a payment amount display area R12. The service menu list display area R10 is a display area that displays a list of services that the multifunction printer 10 can provide as operation buttons. Figure 8(a) is an example of services that the multifunction printer 10 can provide, including "single-sided copying," "scan and print with smartphone," "various copying," "network printing," "photo document printing," "fax," "scan," "government services," and "content services." The control unit 11 can receive a selection instruction from the user for any of the operation buttons displayed in the service menu list display area R10, transition to the service screen corresponding to each operation button, and provide the service desired by the user through that service screen.

[0070] The input amount display area R12 is a display area that displays the amount of money inserted by the user via the billing unit 23. The input amount display area R12 may also display the remaining balance after settlement related to content printing.

[0071] The service menu list display area R10 includes buttons related to service selection, as well as the "All Content" button B10. The "All Content" button B10 is an operation button that accepts user instructions to display the content service menu screen W20 as a service screen.

[0072] Figure 8(b) illustrates one example configuration of the content service menu screen W20 that the control unit 11 displays when the user selects the "All Content" button B10 on the main menu screen W10 (service menu list display area R10).

[0073] The content service menu screen W20 includes the content service list display area R14. The content service list display area R14 is a display area that shows the content services that the vendor can provide via the multifunction printer 10 as operation buttons. Figure 8(b) shows examples of content services that can be provided, including "Recommended Prints," "Print Anytime," "Sheet Music Prints," "Print Maps," "Image Prints," "Sports Newspapers," "Scan Prints," "Today's Weather," and "Recommended Recipes." Users can also select the content they wish to purchase via the "Search by Service Number" button, the "Select Content by QR Code (Registered Trademark)" button, etc., displayed in the content service list display area R14.

[0074] The control unit 11 can receive a user's instruction to select one of the operation buttons displayed in the content service list display area R14, transition to the content selection screen corresponding to each operation button, and provide the content desired by the user through that content selection screen.

[0075] Figure 8(c) illustrates one example configuration of the content selection screen W30 that the control unit 11 displays when the user selects the “Sports Newspaper” button B12 on the content service menu screen W20 (content service list display area R14).

[0076] The content selection screen W30 includes a content selection area R16. The content selection area R16 includes operation buttons that accept selection instructions for content of the same content service, i.e., the same content genre. Figure 8(c) is an example showing the "Sports Newspaper Kanto Edition" button B14 and the "Sports Newspaper National Edition" button B16 as selectable content in the content genre "Sports Newspaper". Users can select the content they wish to purchase by selecting the operation button displayed in the content selection area R16.

[0077] Figure 9(a) illustrates one example of the configuration of the print execution screen W40 displayed by the control unit 11 when either the "Sports Newspaper Kanto Edition" button B14 or the "Sports Newspaper National Edition" button B16 is selected as the first content that the user wishes to purchase on the content selection screen W30 (content selection area R16).

[0078] The print execution screen W40 includes the total charge amount display area R18, the payment method selection area R20, the receipt print settings area R22, and the start button B18.

[0079] The total charge display area R18 includes a print quantity display area and a total amount display area. The print quantity display area is a display area that shows the number of copies of the content to be printed as set by the user. The total amount display area is a display area that shows the total charge, which is the total amount charged for the provision of the content. Figure 9(a) is an example of the display of the total charge display area R18 when "1" copy of either the "Sports Newspaper Kanto Edition" or the "Sports Newspaper National Edition" is printed.

[0080] The payment method selection area R20 is a selection area that accepts instructions for selecting a payment method for the charge. Figure 9(a) shows an example where "cash" is selected by the user as the payment method for the charge.

[0081] The receipt printing setting area R22 is a selection area that accepts the user's choice of whether or not to print a receipt after settlement of the charge. Figure 9(a) shows an example when the user selects "Do not print receipt".

[0082] The start button B18 is an operation button that receives a command to print content. When the control unit 11 receives a selection command from the user using the start button B18, it executes the printing of the content.

[0083] Figure 9(b) illustrates one example of the configuration of the print status screen W50 that the control unit 11 displays in response to a selection instruction from the user via the start button B18 on the print execution screen W40.

[0084] The print status screen W50 includes the print status display area R24, the receipt print settings area R22, and the following selection buttons: the "Select Other Content" button B20, the "Select Same Genre" button B22, and the "Select Different Content" button B24, which is a button for selecting the same content. The receipt print settings area R22 differs only in its display format from the receipt print settings area R22 exemplified in Figure 9(a), so further explanation is omitted.

[0085] The print status display area R24 is a display area that shows the printing status of the content. Figure 9(a) is an example that shows the printing status of the content, including a still image (or video) that reminds the user to check for forgotten items when leaving the multifunction printer 10 after printing the content, and the actual printing status (progress) of the content displayed in the status bar.

[0086] The “Select Other Content” button B20 is a selection button that accepts a selection instruction for a second content different from the content currently being printed (the first content). When the user selects the “Select Other Content” button B20, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the content service menu screen W20, as illustrated in Figure 9(c). Figure 9(b) shows the state when the “Select Other Content” button is selected.

[0087] The “Select Same Genre” button B22 is a same-genre selection button that accepts the instruction to select a third piece of content that belongs to the same genre (content genre) as the content currently being printed (first piece of content). When the user selects the “Select Same Genre” button B22, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the content selection screen W30.

[0088] The "Select Different Content" button B24 is a same-content selection button that accepts the instruction to select a fourth piece of content that is the same content as the content currently being printed (the first piece of content) but with different content. When the user selects the "Select Different Content" button B24, the control unit 11 transitions the screen to the print execution screen W40.

[0089] Figure 9(c) illustrates an example configuration of the content service menu screen W20 that the control unit 11 displays when the user selects the "Select Other Content" button B20. The content service menu screen W20 illustrated in Figure 9(c) can have the same configuration as the content service menu screen W20 illustrated in Figure 8(b), but differs in that it includes a selection count display area R26 that displays the number of times the content has been selected. Figure 9(c) is an example where the selection count display area R26 shows that the content has been selected for the "second time". By displaying the selection count display area R26 on the content service menu screen W20, the user can accurately understand the number of times they have selected the content.

[0090] Thus, when the control unit 11 receives a selection instruction from the user using the "Select other content" button B20, it transitions the screen to the content service menu screen W20, which accepts selection instructions for content provided by other vendors, allowing the user to print and purchase content from different vendors all at once (corresponding to the "1" → "2" pattern in the job list in Figure 7).

[0091] Figure 10(a) illustrates an example configuration of the content selection screen W30 that the control unit 11 displays when the user selects the “Select Same Genre” button B22. The content selection screen W30 illustrated in Figure 10(a) can have the same configuration as the content selection screen W30 illustrated in Figure 8(c), but differs in that it includes a selection count display area R26 that displays the number of times the content has been selected. Figure 10(a) is an example where the selection count display area R26 shows that the content has been selected for the “second time”. By displaying the selection count display area R26 on the content selection screen W30, the user can accurately understand the number of times they have selected the content.

[0092] Thus, when the control unit 11 receives a selection instruction from the user via the "Select Same Genre" button B22, it transitions to the content selection screen W30, which accepts selection instructions for content of the same content genre. As a result, the user can print and purchase all content of the same content genre at once (corresponding to the "2" → "3" pattern in the job list in Figure 7).

[0093] Figure 10(b) illustrates an example configuration of the print execution screen W40 that the control unit 11 displays when the user selects the "Select different content" button B24. The print execution screen W40 illustrated in Figure 10(b) can have the same configuration as the print execution screen W40 illustrated in Figure 9(a), but differs in that it includes a selection count display area R26 that displays the number of times the content has been selected. Figure 10(b) is an example where the selection count display area R26 shows that the content has been selected for the "second time". By displaying the selection count display area R26 on the print execution screen W40, the user can accurately understand the number of times they have selected the content.

[0094] Thus, when the control unit 11 receives a selection instruction from the user via the "Select different content" button B24, it transitions to the print execution screen W40, which accepts selection instructions (print execution instructions) for content that is the same but has different content. As a result, the user can print and purchase different content all at once without having to select the same content multiple times (corresponding to the "4" → "6" pattern in the job list in Figure 7). Furthermore, with "Select different content," the user's content confirmation process before printing can be omitted. Since the user cannot know what content will be printed until they see the actual printed document, they can wait for the printing to complete with anticipation about what kind of content they can purchase.

[0095] As described above, according to the first embodiment, when a user wishes to purchase content from different providers (vendors), they can select the content they wish to purchase from a large number of options, allowing them to print and purchase content from different vendors all at once. Furthermore, when a user wishes to select content from a large number of options, they can transition to a screen for selecting the desired content (print execution screen), thus reducing the effort required from the user.

[0096] [2 Second Embodiment] In the first embodiment, a configuration was described in which the printing process of content selected by the user and the selection process of other content different from the selected content via, for example, a service screen (content service menu screen W20) can be controlled in parallel. In such parallel processing of the selection process for purchasing other content and the printing process of the content, the following two patterns are possible regarding the timing of displaying the print execution screen for the other content.

[0097] (1) If the selection process for other content is completed while the content is being printed, (2) If the printing process for the content is completed while the selection process for other content is still in progress.

[0098] Incidentally, during the printing process of content, events such as a malfunction of the image forming unit 171 may occur, making it impossible to print other selected content. Now, let's consider a configuration where, during the printing process of content, the selection of other content is completed, a print execution screen for the other content is displayed, and it is possible to input print execution instructions for the other content via this screen. In such a configuration, since the user has already inputted print execution instructions for the other selected content, if an event such as a malfunction of the image forming unit 171 occurs, the purchase (printing) of that other content becomes impossible, requiring a refund of the money paid, which can be an unnecessary hassle.

[0099] In the second embodiment, the timing of displaying the print execution screen for other content is controlled separately for cases where the selection process for other content is completed while the printing process for content is in progress, and cases where the printing process for content is completed while the selection process for other content is in progress. This enables an information processing device that, for example, does not affect the purchase (printing) of other content even if an individual event related to the printing of content occurs.

[0100] [2.1 Functional Configuration] The functional configuration of the multifunction device and content server according to the second embodiment can be substantially the same as that of the multifunction device 10 and content server 20 according to the first embodiment, so a detailed explanation is omitted here.

[0101] [2.2 Processing Flow] The processing flow according to the second embodiment will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 11. The processing described in Figure 11 is performed by the control unit 11 when it reads the control program 191, the display control program 192, the job control program 193, the content processing program 194, the billing processing program 195, etc. In Figure 11, the content selection process based on any of the selection instructions in steps S39 to S43 of Figure 4 will be described as the other content selection process.

[0102] The control unit 11 executes the printing process for the content and displays the printing status screen, then determines whether or not it has received a user instruction to select other content (step S51 → step S53).

[0103] If the control unit 11 determines that it has received an instruction from the user to select other content, it displays a selection screen for selecting the other content and accepts the selection of the other content (step S55 → step S57).

[0104] The control unit 11 determines whether the content printing process has been completed while other content selection processes are underway (step S59).

[0105] If the control unit 11 determines that the content printing process is complete, it determines whether the user has completed the selection process for other content (Step S59; Yes → Step S61). If it determines that the user has not completed the selection process for other content, the control unit 11 waits until the selection process for that other content is completed (Step S61; No).

[0106] On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the user has completed the selection process for other content, it displays a print execution screen for the other content (step S61; Yes → step S63). Then, when the control unit 11 receives a print execution command from the user via the displayed print execution screen, it executes the print process for the other content and terminates the process (step S65 → termination).

[0107] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S59 that the printing process for the content has not been completed, the control unit 11 determines whether the user has completed the selection process for other content (step S59; No → step S67). If it is determined that the user has not completed the selection process for other content, the control unit 11 waits until the selection process for that other content is completed (step S67; No).

[0108] On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the user has completed the selection process for other content, it displays a print status screen for printing the content (step S67; Yes → step S69). The control unit 11 then determines whether or not the content printing process has been completed (step S71). If it determines that the content printing process has not been completed, the control unit 11 continues to display the print status screen (step S71; No → step S69). On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the content printing process has been completed, it displays a print execution screen for other content (step S71; Yes → step S63). The control unit 11 then receives a print execution command from the user via the displayed print execution screen, executes the print process for the other content, and terminates the process (step S65 → termination).

[0109] Figure 12 is a sequence diagram illustrating the relationship between operations / actions and screen transitions in the second embodiment. Here, "operations" mainly represent user actions, and "actions" represent the actions of the multifunction device 10 (control unit 11). In Figure 12, the content described in Figure 11 is referred to as Content A, and other content as Content B.

[0110] Figure 12(a) is a sequence diagram corresponding to the processes in steps S59(Yes), S61(Yes), and S63 of Figure 11. On the other hand, Figure 12(b) is a sequence diagram corresponding to the processes in steps S59(No), S67(Yes), S69, S71(Yes), and S63 of Figure 11.

[0111] Under the conditions shown in Figure 12(a), if the selection process for Content B is started while the print status screen for Content A is being displayed, the operation screen transitions to an operation (selection) screen that accepts the instruction to select Content B. Then, if the print process for Content A is completed while the selection process for Content B is in progress, the control unit 11 displays the print execution screen for Content B after the completion of the selection process for Content B.

[0112] In the process illustrated in Figure 12(a), the display of the print execution screen for Content B is restricted until the selection process for Content B is completed. Therefore, for example, even if an event such as a malfunction of the image forming unit 171 occurs at the timing indicated by the arrow in the figure before the printing of Content A is completed, the user can only input a print execution command for Content B after the selection process for Content B is finished. In this case, the user will not input a print execution command for Content B because they are aware that the purchase (printing) of Content B is not possible due to the occurrence of the event. Therefore, it is possible to prevent unnecessary refund processing resulting from the inability to purchase (print) Content B.

[0113] Under the conditions shown in Figure 12(b), if the selection process for Content B is started while the print status screen for Content A is being displayed, the operation screen transitions to an operation screen that accepts the instruction to select Content B. Then, when the selection process for Content B is completed while the print process for Content A is in progress, the control unit 11 restricts the display of the print execution screen for Content B and displays the print status screen for Content A. After the print process for Content A is completed, the control unit 11 displays the print execution screen for Content B.

[0114] In the process illustrated in Figure 12(b), the display of the print execution screen for Content B is restricted until the printing process for Content A is complete. Therefore, for example, if a malfunction occurs at the timing indicated by the arrow in the figure before the printing of Content A is completed, the screen transition from the printing status screen for Content A to the print execution screen for Content B will not occur, and the user will not be able to input a print execution command for Content B. Thus, there is no need for a refund process due to the inability to purchase (print) Content B.

[0115] By the way, in the process shown in Figure 12(b), we have described a configuration in which the display of the print execution screen for Content B is restricted until the printing process for Content A is completed. However, for example, as illustrated in Figure 13, the print execution screen W40 for Content B may be displayed instead of the print status screen for Content A. In this case, the start button B18, which accepts the print execution command for Content B, is displayed in an uninputable state, and the start button B18 is made inputable when the printing process for Content A is completed, thereby allowing the input of the print execution command for Content B to be received.

[0116] As described above, according to the second embodiment, by individually controlling the display timing of the print execution screen for other content when the selection process for other content is completed while the printing process for content is in progress, and when the printing process for content is completed while the selection process for other content is in progress, it is possible to realize an information processing device that does not affect the purchase (printing) of other content even if an individual event related to the printing of content occurs.

[0117] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible. That is, embodiments obtained by combining technical means that are appropriately modified without departing from the gist of this disclosure are also included in the technical scope of this disclosure.

[0118] Furthermore, although the embodiments described above are explained separately for the sake of explanation, it goes without saying that they may be combined and implemented to the extent that is technically possible.

[0119] Furthermore, in the embodiments, the programs that run in each device are programs that control the CPU and the like (programs that make the computer function) in order to realize the functions of the embodiments described above. The information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (for example, RAM) during processing, and then stored in storage devices such as various ROMs (Read Only Memory) and HDDs, and read, modified, and written by the CPU as needed.

[0120] Here, the computer-readable non-transient recording medium on which the program in the information processing device is recorded may be any of the following: semiconductor media (e.g., ROM, non-volatile memory card, etc.), optical recording media / magneto-optical recording media (e.g., DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), MO (Magneto Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), CD (Compact Disc), BD (Blu-ray® Disc, etc.)), magnetic recording media (e.g., magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.). In this case, the program recorded on the recording medium is read by the computer of the information processing device and executed by the computer, thereby realizing the functions of the embodiments described above. Furthermore, the functions of this disclosure are realized by processing in cooperation with the operating system or other application programs, etc., based on the instructions of the program.

[0121] Furthermore, when distributing the program to the market, it can be stored on a portable storage medium and distributed, or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the storage device of the server computer is, of course, also included in this disclosure.

[0122] Furthermore, each functional block or feature of the apparatus used in the embodiments described above can also be implemented and executed by an electrical circuit, such as an integrated circuit or a plurality of integrated circuits. An electrical circuit designed to realize the functions described herein may include a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gates or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or a combination thereof. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, a conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. The aforementioned electrical circuit may consist of digital circuits or analog circuits. Also, if advances in semiconductor technology lead to the emergence of integrated circuit technologies that replace current integrated circuits, one or more aspects of this disclosure may use new integrated circuits based on such technologies. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0123] 10 Multifunction device 11 Control Unit 13. Control Panel 15 Communications Department 17 Image Processing Unit 19 Memory section 21 Leadership Department 23 Billing Section 20 Content Servers

Claims

1. A display unit that displays a service screen that displays content available as a service, and a print execution screen that accepts a print execution command for content selected by the user based on the content displayed on the service screen, The system includes a control unit capable of parallel control of the printing process of the content selected by the user and the selection process of other content different from the content related to the printing process via the service screen, The control unit, If the printing process for the content is completed while the selection process for the other content is in progress, a print execution screen will be displayed after the selection process for the other content is complete, allowing the user to request that the other content be printed. An information processing apparatus characterized in that, if the selection process for other content is completed while the printing process for the aforementioned content is in progress, a print execution screen is displayed after the completion of the printing process for the aforementioned content, which accepts a print execution instruction for the other content.

2. The control unit, If the printing process for the content is completed while the selection process for the other content is in progress, the selection screen for selecting the other content will continue to be displayed until the selection process for the other content is completed. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, if the selection process for other content is completed while the printing process for the aforementioned content is in progress, a print status screen displaying the printing status of the aforementioned content is displayed until the printing process for that content is completed.

3. The control unit, The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, if the selection process for other content is completed during the printing process of the aforementioned content, a print execution screen is displayed that accepts a print execution instruction for the other content.

4. The control unit, The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, when the selection process for other content is completed during the printing process of the aforementioned content and a print execution screen that accepts a print execution instruction for the other content is displayed, input of a print execution instruction for the other content is restricted until the printing process of the aforementioned content is completed.

5. The control unit, The information processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that it displays the content provided by multiple vendors on the service screen in a selectable manner.

6. The control unit, The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that it charges a fee for the service to each of the multiple vendors.

7. A service screen that displays content available as a service, and a print execution screen that accepts a print execution command for content selected by the user based on the content displayed on the service screen, are displayed on the display device. A print control method that controls in parallel the printing process of the content selected by the user and the selection process of other content different from the content related to the printing process, If the printing process for the content is completed while the selection process for the other content is in progress, a print execution screen will be displayed after the selection process for the other content is complete, allowing the user to request that the other content be printed. A print control method characterized in that, if the selection process for other content is completed while the printing process for the aforementioned content is in progress, a print execution screen that accepts a print execution instruction for the other content is displayed after the printing process for the aforementioned content is completed.

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