Image processing device, control method, and program

Abstract

Using a relatively simple method, the system will reflect and display settings specific to each company or user, thereby improving user convenience. [Solution] The image processing device 1 includes a display unit 8a that displays a plurality of display areas 27, 28 assigned to each user, and displays operation keys 21 associated with jobs by placing them in each of the plurality of display areas 27, 28; a setting registration unit 35 that registers and manages the setting values ​​of setting items applied to jobs for each user; and a setting reflection unit 36 ​​that, when an operation key 21 in any of the plurality of display areas 27, 28 is operated, identifies the user based on the display area in which the operation key 21 was operated, reads the setting values ​​registered for the identified user, and reflects them as the initial values ​​of the setting items applied to the job.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] A shared office is an office in which multiple companies jointly use a single office space. An image processing apparatus such as an MFP (Multifunction Peripheral) may be installed in such a shared office. In that case, one image processing apparatus is jointly used by users of multiple companies. However, when multiple companies jointly use an image processing apparatus, there may be a need to apply unique setting values or limit the functions of the image processing apparatus for each company.

[0003] Conventionally, there has been proposed an image processing apparatus that registers, for each user or group, the range within which a user can change settings when using the image processing apparatus (for example, Patent Document 1). This conventional technology incorporates an authentication function such as card authentication in the image processing apparatus. The image processing apparatus can identify an individual user through user authentication by the authentication function and can determine which company the identified user belongs to. Therefore, when the image processing apparatus transitions to the logged-in state through user authentication, it can automatically reflect setting values unique to the company to which the identified user belongs.

[0004] However, an image processing apparatus installed in a shared office may not be able to incorporate an authentication function for identifying individual users due to problems such as introduction costs. When installed in an environment where an authentication function cannot be introduced, it is difficult for the image processing apparatus to reflect and display unique setting values for each company or user.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

[0006] This invention was made to solve the above-mentioned problems. Specifically, the present invention aims to provide an image processing device, a control method, and a program that can improve user convenience by displaying settings unique to each company or user using a relatively simple method. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To achieve the above objective, the invention according to claim 1 is an image processing apparatus comprising: a display unit that displays a plurality of display areas assigned to each user and displays operation keys associated with jobs arranged in each of the plurality of display areas; a setting registration unit that registers and manages setting values ​​for setting items applied to the job for each user; and a setting reflection unit that, when an operation key in any of the plurality of display areas is operated, identifies the user based on the display area where the operation key was operated, reads the setting value registered for the identified user, and reflects it as the initial value of the setting item applied to the job.

[0008] The invention according to claim 2 is characterized in that, in the image processing apparatus of claim 1, the setting value of the setting item applied to the job can be selected from a group of setting values ​​including a plurality of setting values, and the setting registration unit registers and manages a predetermined setting value for each user from the group of setting values.

[0009] The invention according to claim 3 is an image processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the operation key is an operation key associated with a copy job or a scan job.

[0010] The invention according to claim 4 is an image processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the display unit displays a plurality of folders assigned to each user as the plurality of display areas.

[0011] The invention according to claim 5 is an image processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the display unit displays a plurality of tab screens assigned to each user as the plurality of display areas.

[0012] The invention according to claim 6 is an image processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the setting registration unit integrates and manages the setting values ​​of setting items common to multiple jobs that use the same function.

[0013] The invention according to claim 7 is an image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the operation key is an operation key for launching an application for executing the job, and the setting reflection unit is configured to reflect the setting value as the initial value of the setting item applied to the application when the application is launched by the operation of the operation key.

[0014] The invention according to claim 8 is an image processing apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that the setting reflection unit reflects the setting value in the setting item applied to the application, and then does not allow the application to change the setting value.

[0015] The invention according to claim 9 is an image processing apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that the setting value includes a setting to disable the network connection.

[0016] The invention according to claim 10 is an image processing apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that the setting registration unit is capable of imposing restrictions on setting changes for each of the multiple setting values ​​included in the setting value group, on a per-user basis.

[0017] The invention according to claim 11 is an image processing apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that the setting registration unit is capable of assigning display restrictions to each of the multiple setting values ​​included in the setting value group, on a per-user basis.

[0018] The invention according to claim 12 is an image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a placement restriction unit that sets placement restrictions for the operation keys for each of the plurality of display areas for each user, wherein the display unit does not place the operation keys in the display areas for which placement restrictions have been set by the placement restriction unit.

[0019] The invention according to claim 13 is characterized in that the image processing apparatus according to claim 1 further comprises an authentication unit which sets an authentication password for each of the plurality of display areas and makes the operation keys included in each of the plurality of display areas available for display on the condition that the authentication password is entered.

[0020] The invention according to claim 14 is a control method for an image processing apparatus having a display unit, characterized by comprising: a display step of displaying a plurality of display areas assigned to each user on the display unit, and displaying operation keys associated with a job by arranging them in each of the plurality of display areas; a setting registration step of registering and managing setting values ​​for setting items applied to the job for each user; and a setting reflection step of identifying a user based on the display area where the operation key was operated when the operation key in any of the plurality of display areas is operated, reading the setting values ​​registered for the identified user, and reflecting them as initial values ​​for the setting items applied to the job.

[0021] The invention according to claim 15 is a control method according to claim 14, wherein the setting value of the setting item applied to the job can be selected from a group of setting values ​​including a plurality of setting values, and the setting registration step is characterized in that a predetermined setting value is registered and managed for each user from the group of setting values.

[0022] The invention according to claim 16 is a program executed in an image processing apparatus having a display unit, the display unit displays a plurality of display areas assigned to each user, and an operation key associated with a job is arranged and displayed in each of the plurality of display areas; a setting registration step of registering and managing setting values of setting items applied to the job for each user; and a setting reflection step of identifying a user based on the display area in which the operation key is operated when the operation key in any one of the plurality of display areas is operated, reading out the registered setting value for the identified user, and reflecting it as an initial value of the setting item applied to the job. It is characterized by having such a configuration.

[0023] The invention according to claim 17 is the program according to claim 16, characterized in that the setting value of the setting item applied to the job can be selected from a group of setting values including a plurality of setting values, and the setting registration step registers and manages a preset setting value for each user from the group of setting values.

Advantages of the Invention

[0024] According to the present invention, by a relatively simple method, it is possible to display while reflecting unique setting values for each company or user, etc., and improve the convenience for the user.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0025] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing an example of the external configuration of an image processing apparatus. [Figure 2] It is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an image processing apparatus. [Figure 3] It is a diagram showing an example of an operation screen displayed on the display unit. [Figure 4] It is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a setting management unit. [Figure 5] It is a diagram showing an example of an operation screen in which a plurality of display areas are set. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of a settings screen for registering the settings values ​​for various configuration items applied to a copy job. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of setting value information. [Figure 8] This flowchart shows the procedure for registering unique settings for each user belonging to a different company. [Figure 9] This flowchart shows the procedure for automatically applying settings when a user uses an image processing device. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of initial values ​​that are reflected in the application in response to the operation keys performed by the user. [Figure 11] This diagram shows an operation screen where multiple display areas are set up as tabbed screens. [Figure 12] This block diagram shows a detailed configuration example of the setting management unit in the second embodiment. [Figure 13] This figure shows an example of a screen where the authentication password is set by the authentication unit. [Figure 14] This is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration example of the setting management unit in the third embodiment. [Figure 15] This figure shows an example of setting information with added feature restriction items. [Figure 16] This figure shows an example of destination information with display restrictions applied. [Figure 17] This figure shows an example of how the destination list is displayed, which changes depending on the operation keys performed by the user. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0026] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments described below, elements common to all are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations of these elements will be omitted.

[0027] (First Embodiment) Figure 1 shows an example of the external configuration of an image processing device 1, which is one embodiment of the present invention. This image processing device 1 is configured as, for example, an MFP (Multifunction Printer) and is equipped with multiple functions such as a copy function, a scan function, and a print function. The image processing device 1 executes copy jobs, scan jobs, or print jobs based on instructions from the user. The image processing device 1 is connected to a network such as a LAN (not shown in the figure). Therefore, the image processing device 1 can transmit image data generated by executing a scan job to an external device via the network. The image processing device 1 can also receive jobs such as print jobs via the network.

[0028] For example, image processing device 1 is installed in an office shared by multiple companies or organizations, such as a co-working space. Therefore, the image processing device is shared by users belonging to each of the multiple companies.

[0029] The image processing device 1 is equipped with a scanner unit 2 on the top of the main body of the device. The scanner unit 2 operates when a copy job or scan job is executed in the image processing device 1. The scanner unit 2 is equipped with an image reading unit 3 and an automatic document feeder (ADF) 4. The automatic document feeder 4 is equipped with a document tray 4a on which documents are placed. The scanner unit 2 drives the automatic document feeder 4 and transports documents placed on the document tray 4a one by one. The scanner unit 2 drives the image reading unit 3 in synchronization with the document transport operation and reads the image of the document as it passes a predetermined image reading position, generating image data.

[0030] The image processing device 1 is equipped with a printer unit 5 at the bottom of the main body of the device. The printer unit 5 operates when a copy job or print job is executed in the image processing device 1. The printer unit 5 is equipped with a paper feed and transport unit 6 and an image forming unit 7. The paper feed and transport unit 6 transports sheets of printing paper or the like, stored in a paper feed cassette, one sheet at a time. The image forming unit 7 forms an image on the surface of the sheet as it passes a predetermined position, and discharges the sheet into a paper output tray 7a located at the top of the printer unit 5.

[0031] Furthermore, the image processing device 1 is equipped with an operation panel 8 on the front side of the device body. The operation panel 8 is the user interface for when a user uses the image processing device 1. The operation panel 8 is configured, for example, as a touchscreen. When using the copy function or scan function of the image processing device 1, the user can set up the job by operating the operation panel 8. The user can also give instructions to the image processing device 1 to execute a job by operating the operation panel 8.

[0032] Figure 2 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the image processing device 1. As described above, the image processing device 1 comprises a scanner unit 2, a printer unit 5, and an operation panel 8. The operation panel 8 comprises a display unit 8a and an operation unit 8b. The display unit 8a is composed of, for example, a color liquid crystal display and displays various operation screens that the user can operate. The operation unit 8b detects user operations on the operation screens displayed on the display unit 8a. For example, the operation unit 8b is composed of touchscreen keys arranged on the screen of the display unit 8a.

[0033] The image processing device 1 is equipped with a network interface 9. The network interface 9 is an interface that connects the image processing device 1 to a network and communicates with external devices.

[0034] The image processing device 1 includes a control unit 10. The control unit 10 comprehensively controls the operation of the image processing device 1. The control unit 10 includes a hardware processor 11 and a memory 12. The hardware processor 11 is a processor such as a central processing unit (CPU), and executes various computer-readable programs. The memory 12 is a volatile storage device that stores temporary data generated by the execution of programs by the hardware processor 11.

[0035] Furthermore, the image processing device 1 includes a storage unit 13. The storage unit 13 is a non-volatile storage device composed of a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid-state drive (SSD). The storage unit 13 stores various programs executed by the hardware processor 11 of the control unit 10.

[0036] For example, the storage unit 13 stores multiple application programs 15. Each application program 15 is a program that starts an application in the hardware processor 11 of the control unit 10 to cause the image processing device 1 to execute a job. The multiple application programs 15 each start an application to cause the image processing device 1 to execute a different job. For example, one application program 15 uses the copy function of the image processing device 1 to start an application that causes the image processing device 1 to execute a copy job. Another application program 15 uses the scan function of the image processing device 1 to start an application that causes the image processing device 1 to execute a scan job.

[0037] Furthermore, among the multiple application programs 15, there are programs that utilize the same function of the image processing device 1. For example, one application program 15 launches an application that uses the scanning function of the image processing device 1 to save image data generated by a scan job to the storage unit 13. Another application program 15 launches an application that uses the scanning function of the image processing device 1 to attach image data generated by a scan job to an email and send it externally. Yet another application program 15 launches an application that uses the scanning function of the image processing device 1 to send image data generated by a scan job to an external device via the network. In this way, the multiple application programs 15 include programs that use the same function of the image processing device 1 to perform different jobs.

[0038] Furthermore, the memory unit 13 stores the control program 16. The control program 16 is executed by the hardware processor 11 and controls the startup operation of the application program 15. The control program 16 is a program that is incorporated into the operating system (OS), which is the basic software of the image processing device 1, as part of its functions. However, the control program 16 does not have to be a program implemented in the operating system. For example, the control program 16 may be an application program that is started separately from the operating system and resides in the control unit 10.

[0039] The control program 16 is a program that provides the image processing device 1 with the characteristic functions of the present invention. That is, even if the image processing device 1 is not equipped with an authentication function to identify individual users, the control program 16 controls the display unit 8a to display information that reflects unique settings for each user. The specific functions and operations realized by the hardware processor 11 executing the control program 16 will be described later.

[0040] Furthermore, the memory unit 13 stores setting value information 17. The setting value information 17 is information that records unique setting values ​​for each company or user using the image processing device 1. Details of the setting value information 17 will be described later.

[0041] Figure 3 shows an example of an operation screen displayed on the display unit 8a of the operation panel 8. The operation screen shown in Figure 3 is, for example, the default screen set when the image processing device 1 is shipped, and represents the home screen displayed on the display unit 8a immediately after the image processing device 1 is powered on. This default home screen is, for example, the screen displayed on the display unit 8a by the operating system of the image processing device 1. This default home screen displays several operation keys 21 to 26 that the user can operate. For example, operation keys 21 to 25 are shortcut keys that launch each of the multiple application programs 15. Operation key 26 is a key that operates the functions of the control program 16 that resides in the control unit 10.

[0042] Operation key 21 has a pre-registered shortcut for launching an application that executes a copy function job on the image processing device 1. Operation keys 22, 24, and 25 have pre-registered shortcuts for launching an application that executes a scan function job on the image processing device 1. In addition, different application programs 15 are associated with operation keys 22, 24, and 25, respectively. Operation key 23 has a pre-registered shortcut for launching an application that executes a box function job on the image processing device 1. The box function is a function that saves data to a predetermined storage area set in the storage unit 13, or reads data stored in a predetermined storage area.

[0043] When a user operates one of the operation keys 21-25, the hardware processor 11 executes the application program 15 corresponding to the operated operation key. This causes the control unit 10 to launch the application specified by the user. The application displays a job settings screen on the display unit 8a and accepts job setting operations from the user. When the application displays the job settings screen, it reflects the initial values ​​it holds internally in each setting item on the settings screen. The initial values ​​for each setting item held internally in the application are common to multiple companies and users. Therefore, when a user operates one of the operation keys 21-25 on the home screen, the display unit 8a displays the job settings screen with the initial values ​​common to multiple companies and users reflected. In this case, the job settings screen displayed on the display unit 8a does not reflect the unique settings values ​​for each user.

[0044] In response, the control program 16 controls the display unit 8a so that a screen reflecting unique settings for each user belonging to a different company is displayed. The functions of the control program 16 will be described in detail below.

[0045] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the setting management unit 30, which functions when the control program 16 is executed. This setting management unit 30 resides on the hardware processor 11 when the image processing device 1 is powered on. The setting management unit 30 includes an operation reception unit 31, a display control unit 32, an area setting unit 33, a key arrangement unit 34, a setting registration unit 35, a setting reflection unit 36, and an application launch unit 37.

[0046] The operation reception unit 31 receives user input to the operation unit 8b. For example, the operation reception unit 31 receives coordinate information from the operation unit 8b indicating the user's position relative to the operation screen. Based on this coordinate information, the operation reception unit 31 identifies the user's operation.

[0047] The display control unit 32 controls the operation screen displayed on the display unit 8a. For example, immediately after power is turned on to the image processing device 1, the display control unit 32 displays the home screen on the display unit 8a.

[0048] The area setting unit 33 sets a display area on the operation screen of the display unit 8a that is assigned to each user. For example, when the user operates the operation key 26 (see Figure 3) displayed on the home screen, the area setting unit 33 creates a display area assigned to that user on the operation screen of the display unit 8a. For example, the display area is created as a folder that can be displayed by placing the operation key specified by the user. The area setting unit 33 also assigns a name specified by the user to the display area created on the operation screen. When the area setting unit 33 creates a display area, the display control unit 32 displays that display area on the operation screen displayed on the display unit 8a.

[0049] The key placement unit 34 places the operation keys in the display area created by the area setting unit 33. For example, if one of the operation keys 21 to 25 displayed on the home screen is dragged and dropped into the display area by the user, the key placement unit 34 places the operation key operated by the user inside the display area.

[0050] Figure 5 shows an operation screen with multiple display areas 27 and 28 configured. The operation screen in Figure 5(a) shows a state where two display areas 27 and 28 have been created on the home screen. For example, display area 27 is a folder created by a user belonging to company A. Display area 27 is assigned the folder name "Company A". Display area 28 is a folder created by a user belonging to company B. Display area 28 is assigned the folder name "Company B". Each of these display areas 27 and 28 has an operation key 21 associated with a copy job. Display areas 27 and 28 displayed on the home screen are displayed as folders. Therefore, the operation keys 21 placed on each display area 27 and 28 are displayed as thumbnail images.

[0051] When a user belonging to company A wants to execute a copy job using the image processing device 1, they select the display area 27 of the display unit 8a. Figure 5(b) shows the operation screen when the display area 27 is selected by a user belonging to company A. When the display area 27 is selected by the user, the folder corresponding to the display area 27 is enlarged and displayed on the front side of the home screen, as shown in Figure 5(b). The operation keys 21 located in the display area 27 are then displayed as key images of normal size. When the display area 27 is enlarged in the display unit 8a, in addition to the operation keys 21 located by the user, the setting value registration key 29 is displayed in the display area 27. The setting value registration key 29 is a key for registering the setting values ​​of the setting items that will be applied to the job when the operation keys 21 located in the display area 27 are operated, for each user. Note that although Figure 5(b) illustrates the case when the display area 27 is enlarged in the display unit 8a, the same applies when the display area 28 is enlarged.

[0052] A user belonging to company A operates the operation key 21 or the setting value registration key 29 while the display area 27 on the display unit 8a is enlarged. A user belonging to company B operates the operation key 21 or the setting value registration key 29 while the display area 28 on the display unit 8a is enlarged.

[0053] When a user operates the setting value registration key 29, the setting registration unit 35 in the setting management unit 30 functions. The setting registration unit 35 registers and manages unique setting values ​​for each operation key 21 located in the display areas 27 and 28. For example, when the setting value registration key 29 in the display area 27 is operated, the setting registration unit 35 registers and manages the setting values ​​of the setting items that are applied to the job when the operation key 21 in the display area 27 is operated. In the operation screen shown in Figure 5(b), the operation key 21 associated with the copy job is located in the display area 27 corresponding to company A. Therefore, when a user belonging to company A operates the setting value registration key 29, the setting registration unit 35 displays a setting screen on the display unit 8a to register the setting values ​​of various setting items that are applied to the copy job.

[0054] Figure 6 shows an example of a settings screen for registering settings for various items applied to a copy job. For example, this settings screen is the same as the screen used to perform job-related settings operations when an application that executes a copy job is launched. In the settings screen shown in Figure 6, four settings items are displayed as settings items applied to the copy job: color, original, collation, and magnification. The color setting item allows you to select one setting value from two groups of setting values: "color" and "monochrome". The original setting item allows you to select one setting value from four groups of setting values: "single-sided>single-sided", "single-sided>double-sided", "double-sided>single-sided", and "double-sided>double-sided". The collation setting item allows you to select one setting value from multiple groups of setting values ​​such as "none", "2in1", and "4in1". Furthermore, the magnification setting item allows you to select one setting value from multiple groups of setting values ​​such as "100%", "70%", "86%", "122%", and "141%".

[0055] The settings values ​​for the four settings items in the settings screen shown in Figure 6 are reflected as initial values ​​in the application when the application associated with the operation key 21 is launched. Each setting item displays a pull-down key 41 for changing the setting value. When the user operates the pull-down key 41, a pull-down menu for changing the setting value of the setting item is displayed on the settings screen. The pull-down menu displays a list of setting values, including multiple setting values ​​that the user can select as the initial value for each setting item. The user can set the initial value when the application is launched by selecting the desired setting value from the pull-down menu.

[0056] The settings screen also displays a setting registration key 42 and a cancel key 43. The setting registration key 42 is used to register the settings values ​​of each setting item selected by the user as the initial values ​​when the application starts. The cancel key 43 is used to exit the settings screen without registering the initial values ​​when the application starts.

[0057] When the user operates the setting registration key 42, the setting registration unit 35 registers the setting values ​​of each setting item selected by the user on the setting screen shown in Figure 6 into the setting value information 17. Therefore, the setting values ​​recorded in the setting value information 17 can be arbitrarily rewritten by the user. However, if the user operates the cancel key 43, the setting registration unit 35 does not register the setting values ​​of each setting item on the setting screen into the setting value information 17.

[0058] For example, a user belonging to company A enlarges the display area 27 of company A and operates the setting value registration key 29 to display the setting screen shown in Figure 6 on the display unit 8a. The user of company A performs operations on that setting screen to set the initial values ​​when the application is started. In this case, the setting registration unit 35 registers the setting values ​​specified by the user of company A in the setting value information 17 as the initial values ​​for the user belonging to company A.

[0059] Furthermore, for example, a user belonging to company B can enlarge the display area 28 for company B and operate the setting value registration key 29 to display the setting screen shown in Figure 6 on the display unit 8a. The user of company B then operates on this setting screen to set the initial values ​​when the application is launched. At this time, the user of company B can set different initial values ​​than the user of company A. The setting registration unit 35 then registers the setting values ​​specified by the user of company B as the initial values ​​for the user belonging to company B in the setting value information 17.

[0060] Figure 7 shows an example of setting value information 17. Setting value information 17 is information registered for each user belonging to multiple companies, specifying the setting values ​​of the setting items to which jobs corresponding to each function of the image processing device 1 are applied. For example, as shown in Figure 7, the setting value information 17 is information registered for each user, specifying the setting values ​​selected by each user of companies A and B for each setting item applied to a job. The setting registration unit 35 stores and manages the setting value information 17 as shown in Figure 7 in the storage unit 13. Such setting value information 17 is managed as information different from the initial values ​​that the application holds internally.

[0061] As described above, when users belonging to companies A and B register their settings, the settings management unit 30 can reflect the settings individually set for each user when the application is launched. As an example, let's explain the case where a user of company A enlarges the display area 27 and operates the operation keys 21 related to copy jobs located in the display area 27. When the user operates the operation keys 21 located in the display area 27, the settings reflection unit 36 ​​in the settings management unit 30 functions.

[0062] When an operation key 21 is pressed, the setting reflection unit 36 ​​identifies the display area 27 where the operation key 21 is located and identifies that the user is from company A. The setting reflection unit 36 ​​reads the setting value information 17 and reads the setting value that has been previously specified by the identified user from the setting value information 17. The setting reflection unit 36 ​​then instructs the application launch unit 37 to launch the application.

[0063] The application launch unit 37 launches the application corresponding to the operation key 21 by reading and executing the application program 15 associated with the operation key 21 from the storage unit 13. When the application is launched by the application launch unit 37, the setting reflection unit 36 ​​overwrites the setting values ​​of each setting item applied to the application with the setting values ​​read from the setting value information 17. As a result, the application is launched with the setting values ​​previously specified by the user of company A as the initial values. In other words, the user does not need to change the setting values ​​of each setting item to the setting values ​​defined by their company after the application is launched. Therefore, the operational burden on the user when using the image processing device 1 is reduced, and the convenience of the image processing device 1 is improved.

[0064] Furthermore, when a user belonging to company B uses the image processing device 1, the same processing as described above is performed in the image processing device 1 by operating the operation keys 21 located in the display area 28.

[0065] Next, the processing procedure of the image processing device 1 will be described. Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure for registering unique settings for each user belonging to a different company. This process is performed by the functioning of the area setting unit 33, the key arrangement unit 34, and the setting registration unit 35 in the setting management unit 30.

[0066] When the setting management unit 30 starts processing according to the flowchart shown in Figure 8, it first determines whether or not it has detected a user instruction to set a region (step S10). For example, if the user operates the operation key 26 (see Figure 3), the setting management unit 30 detects a user instruction to set a region. If a region setting instruction is detected (YES in step S10), the setting management unit 30 sets a new display region 27 or 28 within the operation screen displayed on the display unit 8a (step S11). At this time, the setting management unit 30 assigns the name specified by the user to the new display region 27 or 28. As a result, the operation screen displayed on the display unit 8a is updated to display the display region 27 or 28 set by the user, as shown in Figure 5(a).

[0067] Next, the setting management unit 30 determines whether or not it has detected an operation to place the operation key 21 in the display area 27 or 28 (step S12). If it has detected an operation to place the operation key 21 (YES in step S12), the setting management unit 30 places the operation key 21 specified by the user in the display area 27 or 28 specified by the user and updates the operation screen (step S13).

[0068] Next, the setting management unit 30 determines whether or not it has detected an operation of the setting value registration key 29 (step S14). If it detects an operation of the setting value registration key 29 (YES in step S14), the setting management unit 30 displays a setting screen as shown in Figure 6 on the display unit 8a (step S15). The setting management unit 30 accepts the user's operation to change the setting value on that setting screen (step S16), registers the setting value specified by the user in the setting value information 17, and updates the setting value information 17 (step S17).

[0069] The settings management unit 30 repeatedly performs the above-described process based on operations performed by users belonging to each of the multiple companies. As a result, the display unit 8a of the operation panel 8 displays multiple display areas 27 and 28 assigned to each user, and the operation keys 21 associated with the job are displayed in each of the multiple display areas 27 and 28. The settings management unit 30 then registers and manages the setting values ​​of the setting items applied to the job for each user in the setting value information 17.

[0070] Next, Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the process for automatically reflecting the settings when a user uses the image processing device 1. This process is performed by the setting reflection unit 36 ​​and the application launch unit 37 functioning within the setting management unit 30.

[0071] When the settings management unit 30 starts processing according to the flowchart shown in Figure 9, it determines whether or not it has detected an operation of the operation key 21 by the user (step S20). If it has detected an operation of the operation key 21 by the user (YES in step S20), the settings management unit 30 identifies the display area where the operated operation key 21 is located (step S21). For example, the settings management unit 30 identifies which of the multiple display areas 27, 28 the operation key 21 is located in.

[0072] The settings management unit 30 identifies the user based on the identified display area (step S22). For example, if the operation key 21 operated by the user is located in the display area 27, the settings management unit 30 identifies that the user belongs to company A. If the operation key 21 operated by the user is located in the display area 28, the settings management unit 30 identifies that the user belongs to company B.

[0073] The settings management unit 30 reads the setting value information 17 from the storage unit 13 (step S23). Then, the settings management unit 30 reads the setting value corresponding to the identified user from the setting value information 17.

[0074] The settings management unit 30 executes the application program 15 associated with the operation key 21 operated by the user, and starts the application for executing the job (step S24). When the application starts, the settings management unit 30 overwrites the setting values ​​of each setting item in the application with the setting values ​​read from the setting value information 17. In other words, the settings management unit 30 reflects the setting values ​​previously specified by the user in the application (step S25). Therefore, when the application has finished starting and the setting screen by the application is displayed on the display unit 8a, the setting values ​​previously specified by the user are displayed as initial values ​​for each setting item on that setting screen. Consequently, the user does not need to change the setting values ​​of each setting item from the application's default values ​​after the application starts, and can perform job setting operations efficiently.

[0075] Figure 10 shows an example of initial values ​​reflected in the application in response to the operation keys 21 operated by the user. As shown in Figure 10, the operation screen includes the original operation key 21, the operation key 21 located in the display area 27 of company A, and the operation key 21 located in the display area 28 of company B. All of these operation keys 21 are used to launch the same application program 15.

[0076] For example, if a user launches the application by operating the original operation key 21, the application's default setting value 44 will be reflected in the application. Also, if a user launches the application by operating the operation key 21 located in Company A's display area 27, the application will be reflected in the unique setting value 45 that was pre-set by a user of Company A. Furthermore, if a user launches the application by operating the operation key 21 located in Company B's display area 28, the application will be reflected in the unique setting value 46 that was pre-set by a user of Company B.

[0077] Therefore, when a user belonging to company A wants to execute a job using the image processing device 1, they can easily configure the job by operating the operation keys 21 located in the display area 27. Similarly, when a user belonging to company B wants to execute a job using the image processing device 1, they can easily configure the job by operating the operation keys 21 located in the display area 28.

[0078] In the above example, the display unit 8a displays folders as multiple display areas 27, 28 assigned to each user. However, the multiple display areas assigned to each user are not limited to those displayed as folders. For example, the multiple display areas may be displayed as tab screens assigned to each user.

[0079] Figure 11 shows an operation screen where multiple display areas 51, 52, and 53 are set as tab screens. In the operation screen of Figure 11(a), three tab screens are set as display areas 51, 52, and 53. These multiple display areas 51, 52, and 53 can be switched and displayed on the display unit 8a based on user operations. In Figure 11(a), display area 51 is displayed in full screen on the display unit 8a. This display area 51 is a tab screen that is not assigned to a specific user and is an operation screen that corresponds to the home screen (see Figure 3) described above. In contrast, display area 52 is a tab screen assigned to users belonging to company A. Users of company A can display the operation screen corresponding to display area 52 on the display unit 8a by selecting the tab corresponding to display area 52. Also, display area 53 is a tab screen assigned to users belonging to company B. Users of company B can display the operation screen corresponding to display area 53 on the display unit 8a by selecting the tab corresponding to display area 53.

[0080] Figure 11(b) shows the operation screen displaying the display area 52 of Company A. Operation keys 21 related to copy jobs are located in this display area 52. In addition, a setting value registration key 29 is displayed in the display area 52. By operating the setting value registration key 29 in the display area 52, users of Company A can pre-register setting values ​​that will be automatically reflected when they launch the application related to copy jobs by operating the operation keys 21 in the display area 52. After registering the setting values, when using the copy function of the image processing device 1, users of Company A can easily configure the job by operating the operation keys 21 in the display area 52. The same applies when a user of Company B selects and displays the display area 53.

[0081] Therefore, the multiple display areas assigned to each user are not limited to those displayed as folders; they may also be displayed as tabbed screens.

[0082] (Second Embodiment) Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In this embodiment, additional functions that can be added to the basic functions described in the first embodiment will be described. The hardware configuration of the image processing device 1 in this embodiment is the same as that described in the first embodiment.

[0083] Figure 12 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration example of the setting management unit 30 in the second embodiment. Similar to the first embodiment, this setting management unit 30 resides on the hardware processor 11 when the image processing device 1 is powered on. Also, similar to the first embodiment, the setting management unit 30 in this embodiment includes an operation reception unit 31, a display control unit 32, an area setting unit 33, a key placement unit 34, a setting registration unit 35, a setting reflection unit 36, and an application launch unit 37. The difference between the setting management unit 30 shown in Figure 12 and the setting management unit 30 in the first embodiment is that the area setting unit 33 includes an authentication unit 61 and an placement restriction unit 62.

[0084] The authentication unit 61 sets an authentication password (authentication information) for each of the multiple display areas 27, 28 assigned to each user, and performs authentication processing when each display area 27, 28 is enlarged. The authentication unit 61 functions in conjunction with the creation of a new display area by the area setting unit 33. The authentication unit 61 then sets an authentication password for the new display area created by the area setting unit 33.

[0085] Figure 13 shows an example of a screen for setting an authentication password by the authentication unit 61. For example, when a new display area 27 is created by a user of company A, the authentication unit 61 displays a password setting screen as shown in Figure 13. The user of company A sets an arbitrary password on the password setting screen. The authentication unit 61 stores the password set by the user for the display area 27 and associates it with the display area 27. Therefore, when multiple display areas 27, 28 are created on the operation screen displayed on the display unit 8a, a different authentication password is set for each of these multiple display areas 27, 28.

[0086] If authentication passwords are set for each of the multiple display areas, the authentication unit 61 displays a password input screen on the display unit 8a when the user instructs to enlarge any of the display areas. The authentication unit 61 then performs an authentication process by comparing the password entered on the password input screen with the authentication password associated with the display area. If authentication is successful, the authentication unit 61 allows the user to enlarge the display area specified by the user. As a result, the user can operate the operation keys 21 located in the specified display area. Conversely, if authentication fails, the authentication unit 61 prohibits the user from enlarging the display area specified by the user. In this case, the user cannot operate the operation keys 21 located in the specified display area.

[0087] In this way, the authentication unit 61 sets an authentication password for each of the multiple display areas 27 and 28 assigned to each user. Then, the authentication unit 61 displays the operation keys 21 contained in each of the multiple display areas 27 and 28 in a state where the user can operate them, provided that a password matching the authentication password is entered. Therefore, the image processing device 1 can prevent a user belonging to company A from operating the operation keys 21 of the display area 28 assigned to a user of company B. Similarly, the image processing device 1 can prevent a user belonging to company B from operating the operation keys 21 of the display area 27 assigned to a user of company A. In other words, the image processing device 1 can prevent the operation keys 21 located in the display areas 27 and 28 assigned to each user from being used by other users. This further enhances the convenience of the image processing device 1 shared by multiple companies.

[0088] The placement restriction unit 62 restricts the placement of operation keys 21 to each of the multiple display areas 27 and 28. For example, when new display areas 27 and 28 are created by the area setting unit 33, the placement restriction unit 62 registers operation keys 21 that can be placed in the new display areas 27 and 28 based on user operations. The placement restriction unit 62 may also register operation keys 21 that are prohibited from being placed in the new display areas 27 and 28. When the placement restriction unit 62 detects a user operation to place an operation key 21, it determines whether the placement of the specified operation key 21 is permitted or prohibited. If the placement of the specified operation key 21 is permitted, the placement restriction unit 62 places the specified operation key 21 in the display areas 27 and 28 based on the user's placement operation. Conversely, if the placement of the specified operation key 21 is prohibited, the placement restriction unit 62 does not place the operation key 21 specified by the user in the display areas 27 and 28.

[0089] In this way, the placement restriction unit 62 restricts the placement of operation keys 21 for each of the multiple display areas 27 and 28. Therefore, the image processing device 1 can prevent a user of company B from mistakenly registering an operation key 21 to a display area 27 assigned to a user of company A. Similarly, the image processing device 1 can prevent a user of company A from mistakenly registering an operation key 21 to a display area 28 assigned to a user of company B.

[0090] In this embodiment, the configuration and operation other than those described above are the same as those described in the first embodiment.

[0091] (Third embodiment) Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In this embodiment, additional functions that can be added to the functions described in the first and second embodiments will be described. The hardware configuration of the image processing device 1 in this embodiment is the same as that described in the first embodiment.

[0092] Figure 14 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration example of the setting management unit 30 in the third embodiment. Similar to the first embodiment, this setting management unit 30 resides on the hardware processor 11 when the image processing device 1 is powered on. Also, similar to the first embodiment, the setting management unit 30 in this embodiment includes an operation reception unit 31, a display control unit 32, an area setting unit 33, a key arrangement unit 34, a setting registration unit 35, a setting reflection unit 36, and an application launch unit 37. The difference between the setting management unit 30 shown in Figure 14 and the setting management unit 30 in the first embodiment is that the setting registration unit 35 includes a function restriction unit 63.

[0093] The function restriction unit 63 restricts the user's ability to change settings for settings applied to a job when a unique setting value is registered for each operation key 21 located in the display areas 27 and 28. For example, in the color setting item applied to a copy job, the user may select "monochrome" as the initial value. In that case, when the copy job application is launched, "monochrome" is displayed as the initial value for the color setting item. However, this initial value can be changed by the user as needed. Therefore, the user can change the color setting item from the initial value "monochrome" to "color" by operating the pull-down key 41 on the copy settings screen after the application is launched. The function restriction unit 63 restricts such user operations to change setting values. For example, the function restriction unit 63 excludes "color" from the settings that the user can select in the color setting item. As a result, even when the copy settings screen is displayed after the application is launched and the user operates the pull-down key 41, the "color" setting value is grayed out and displayed in a way that the user cannot select it. In other words, the function restriction unit 63 imposes display restrictions on the set of configurable values ​​for the settings applied to a job, on a per-user basis, and also imposes restrictions on setting changes on a per-user basis.

[0094] The function restriction unit 63, based on user instructions, imposes restrictions on the setting items applied to a job and records these restrictions in the setting value information 17. Figure 15 shows an example of the setting value information 17 with added function restriction items. In the setting value information 17 shown in Figure 15, the setting item for the document that is applied when the operation key 21 located in the display area 27 used by a user of company A is operated is set to "double-sided printing not possible". Also, in the setting value information 17 shown in Figure 15, the setting item for the color that is applied when the operation key 21 located in the display area 28 used by a user of company B is operated is set to "color printing not possible".

[0095] The setting reflection unit 36 ​​reflects the setting values ​​of the setting items applied to the job when the application starts, and then restricts the user's setting change operations to setting values ​​within the range restricted by the function restriction unit 63. At this time, the setting reflection unit 36 ​​refers to the setting value information 17 shown in Figure 15 and restricts the range in which the user can change settings. For example, when a user of company A performs a copy job setting operation after the application starts, they cannot change the initial value of the original setting item to the setting value of "single-sided > double-sided" and "double-sided > double-sided". Similarly, when a user of company B performs a copy job setting operation, they cannot change the initial value of the color setting item to the setting value of "color". Therefore, even after the application starts, the user can only change settings within the range of setting values ​​restricted by the function restriction unit 63. Furthermore, if changes to setting values ​​other than those specified as initial values ​​are prohibited, the setting reflection unit 36 ​​may not allow changes to the setting values ​​that were reflected in the application as initial values ​​when the application started.

[0096] Furthermore, the function restriction unit 63 can also impose display restrictions when displaying external destinations such as email addresses. External destination information is managed by the application. The function restriction unit 63 imposes display restrictions on such destination information.

[0097] Figure 16 shows an example of destination information 18 with display restrictions. The destination information 18 shown in Figure 16 represents information managed by an application that performs the process of attaching image data generated by a scan job to an email and sending it externally. This destination information 18 contains email addresses registered by users of Company A and Company B, respectively. If all email addresses registered by users of Company A and Company B are displayed when this application is launched, there is a possibility that an incorrect email address may be selected as the destination for the image data.

[0098] Therefore, the function restriction unit 63 restricts the display of email addresses belonging to Company A to only users belonging to Company A by adding a display restriction to the recipient information 18. Similarly, the function restriction unit 63 restricts the display of email addresses belonging to Company B to only users belonging to Company B by adding a display restriction to the recipient information 18. When the application reads the recipient information 18 and displays the recipient list, it refers to the display restriction added to the recipient information 18 and displays the recipient list based on that restriction.

[0099] Figure 17 shows an example of how the destination list is displayed, depending on the operation key 24 operated by the user. As shown in Figure 17, for example, if a user operates the operation key 24 located in the display area 27 of company A to launch the application, the application reads destinations from the destination information 18 that are restricted to being displayed only to users belonging to company A. As a result, the destination list 47 shown in Figure 17 is displayed on the display unit 8a. Also, for example, if a user operates the operation key 24 located in the display area 28 of company B to launch the application, the application reads destinations from the destination information 18 that are restricted to being displayed only to users belonging to company B. As a result, the destination list 48 shown in Figure 17 is displayed on the display unit 8a.

[0100] In this way, the function restriction unit 63 can prevent all email addresses from being displayed to users of company A and company B by imposing display restrictions on the recipient information 18. As a result, the image processing device 1 can reduce the chance of a user selecting the wrong email address.

[0101] In this embodiment, the configuration and operation other than those described above are the same as those described in the first or second embodiment.

[0102] (modified version) Preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to those described in the above embodiments, and various modifications are applicable.

[0103] For example, the above embodiment illustrates a case where the image processing device 1 is configured as an MFP. However, the image processing device 1 is not limited to being configured as an MFP. For example, the image processing device 1 may be a printer that only has a printing function. Also, the image processing device 1 may be a device connected to a network that transmits and receives image data. Furthermore, the image processing device 1 may be any other device.

[0104] Furthermore, the image processing device 1 described in the above embodiment customizes the settings applied to a job for each user and reflects them as initial values ​​when the application is started. Such settings may include settings related to the network connection of the image processing device 1. For example, a user belonging to company A may register a setting to disable the network connection as the initial value when using the image processing device 1. In this case, when a user from company A enlarges the display area 27 and operates the operation keys 21 located in the display area 27, the image processing device 1 executes the job with the network connection disabled. Therefore, when used by a user from company A, for example, the image processing device 1 does not leak information to the outside via the network. Thus, the image processing device 1 can prevent the leakage of information to the outside by a user belonging to company A.

[0105] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, it was explained that the multiple application programs 15 include multiple programs that utilize the same function of the image processing device 1. For example, the image processing device 1 may be equipped with multiple application programs 15 that perform different jobs on image data generated by a scan job. In that case, the setting items for the scan job that are common to these multiple jobs can use the same setting values. Therefore, it is preferable for the setting registration unit 35 to manage the setting values ​​of the setting items common to multiple jobs that utilize the same function in an integrated manner, rather than managing them separately. By managing the setting values ​​of the setting items common to multiple jobs in an integrated manner, there is an advantage in that the amount of information in the setting value information 17 can be reduced.

[0106] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was described in which the control program 16 is pre-stored in the storage unit 13 of the image processing device 1. However, the control program 16 is not limited to being pre-stored in the storage unit 13. That is, the control program 16 can be traded on its own. For this reason, the control program 16 may be provided recorded on a computer-readable recording medium. Alternatively, the control program 16 may be provided in a form that can be downloaded via a network such as the Internet. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0107] 1 Image processing device 8. Control Panel 8a Display section 8b Operation section 10 Control Unit 16 Control Program 30 Settings management section 33 Area setting section 34 Key layout section 35. Setting Registration Section 36 Setting reflection section 37. App launch section 61 Certification Department 62 Placement restriction section 63 Function Limitation Section

Claims

1. A display unit that displays multiple display areas assigned to each user, and places operation keys associated with jobs in each of the multiple display areas for display; A setting registration unit that registers and manages the setting values ​​of the setting items applied to the aforementioned job for each user, When the operation key in any of the multiple display areas is operated, the setting reflection unit identifies the user based on the display area where the operation key was operated, reads the setting value registered for the identified user, and reflects it as the initial value of the setting item to be applied to the job. An image processing apparatus characterized by comprising:

2. The setting value of the setting item applied to the job can be selected from a group of setting values ​​that includes multiple setting values. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the setting registration unit registers and manages pre-specified setting values ​​for each user from the group of setting values.

3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the operation key is an operation key associated with a copy job or a scan job.

4. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the display unit displays a plurality of folders assigned to each user as the plurality of display areas.

5. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the display unit displays a plurality of tab screens assigned to each user as the plurality of display areas.

6. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the setting registration unit integrates and manages the setting values ​​of setting items common to multiple jobs that use the same function.

7. The aforementioned operation key is an operation key that launches the application for executing the aforementioned job, The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that the setting reflection unit reflects the setting value as the initial value of the setting item applied to the application when the application is launched by the operation of the operation key.

8. The image processing apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that the setting reflection unit reflects the setting value in the setting item applied to the application and then does not allow the application to change the setting value.

9. The image processing apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that the aforementioned setting value includes a setting to disable network connectivity.

10. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that the setting registration unit can impose restrictions on setting changes for each of the multiple setting values ​​included in the setting value group, on a per-user basis.

11. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that the setting registration unit can assign display restrictions to each of the multiple setting values ​​included in the setting value group for each user.

12. For each of the plurality of display areas, a placement restriction unit sets placement restrictions for the operation keys for each user. Furthermore, The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the display unit does not place the operation keys in a display area for which the placement restriction is set by the placement restriction unit.

13. An authentication unit that sets an authentication password for each of the multiple display areas, and enables the display of the operation keys included in each of the multiple display areas on the condition that the authentication password is entered. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising the following:

14. A control method for an image processing apparatus having a display unit, The display unit displays multiple display areas assigned to each user, and displays operation keys associated with jobs, with each of the multiple display areas arranged accordingly. A setting registration step for registering and managing the setting values ​​of the setting items applied to the aforementioned job for each user, When the operation key in any of the multiple display areas is operated, the user is identified based on the display area where the operation key was operated, the setting value registered for the identified user is read, and the setting is reflected as the initial value of the setting item applied to the job in a setting reflection step. A control method characterized by having the following features.

15. The setting value of the setting item applied to the job can be selected from a group of setting values ​​that includes multiple setting values. The control method according to claim 14, characterized in that the setting registration step registers and manages a predetermined setting value for each user from the set value group.

16. A program executed in an image processing device having a display unit, The display unit displays multiple display areas assigned to each user, and displays operation keys associated with jobs, with each of the multiple display areas arranged accordingly. A setting registration step for registering and managing the setting values ​​of the setting items applied to the aforementioned job for each user, When the operation key in any of the multiple display areas is operated, the user is identified based on the display area where the operation key was operated, the setting value registered for the identified user is read, and the setting is reflected as the initial value of the setting item applied to the job in a setting reflection step. A program characterized by causing the execution of a specific action.

17. The setting value of the setting item applied to the job can be selected from a group of setting values ​​that includes multiple setting values. The program according to claim 16, characterized in that the setting registration step registers and manages a predetermined setting value for each user from the set value group.

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