Image reading device and control method for image reading device

Abstract

The present invention provides an image reading device, etc., that can improve user operability when executing jobs that involve detecting a document placed on a document glass. [Solution] An image reading device that performs a job involving reading a document, comprising: a detection unit capable of detecting the document placed on a document glass; and a control unit that controls the display of a notification screen regarding the detection of the document, wherein when the control unit receives an instruction to execute the job, if the size of the document is not set and the document is not detected by the detection unit, the control unit controls the display of a first notification screen regarding the detection of the document according to the user's operation history or the device status of the image reading device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an image reading device and the like.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses that when image reading is started in a state where the document size of a document placed on a document table is uncertain, it is displayed to the user that the document size is uncertain.

Prior Art Document

Patent Document

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] One of the purposes of the present disclosure is to provide an image reading device and the like that can improve the operability of a user in executing a job involving detection of a document placed on a document table.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] In order to solve the above problems, an image reading device according to the present disclosure is an image reading device that executes a job involving reading of a document, and includes a detection unit capable of detecting the document placed on a document table, and a control unit that controls display of a notification screen regarding detection of the document. When the control unit receives an execution instruction of the job, if the size of the document is not set and the document is not detected by the detection unit, the control unit controls display of a first notification screen regarding detection of the document according to the operation history of the user or the device status of the image reading device.

[0006] Furthermore, the control method for an image reading device according to this disclosure is a control method for an image reading device having a detection unit capable of detecting a document placed on a document glass, and executing a job involving reading the document, characterized in that, when an instruction to execute the job is received, if the size of the document is not set and the document is not detected by the detection unit, the display of a notification screen regarding the detection of the document is controlled according to the user's operation history or the device status of the image reading device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide an image reading device, etc., that can improve user operability when executing a job that involves detecting a document placed on a document glass. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This diagram illustrates the overall configuration of the image reading device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This diagram illustrates the functional configuration of the image reading device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow 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 diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] This diagram illustrates the functional configuration of the image reading device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] This figure illustrates an example of operation according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow according to the third embodiment. [Figure 12] (a) is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration file for managing configuration information, and (b) is a diagram illustrating an example of a user information management table for managing user information. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this disclosure, a multifunction device capable of performing jobs such as copying, printing, scanning, faxing, and emailing in a single housing will be described as one form of an image reading device. The image reading device according to this disclosure is not limited in its configuration as long as it has a document tray for reading documents and is capable of outputting (printing) an image based on the reading result of the document placed on the document tray onto a recording medium (paper), etc. The embodiments described below are examples for explaining this disclosure, and the technical content of the invention described in the claims is not limited to the following description.

[0010] Some image reading devices, such as multifunction printers, are equipped with a document feeder that automatically transports the document to be read to the reading unit, and a document tray on which the document is placed for reading. Some of these document feeders and document trays have a function (automatic detection function) that automatically detects the size of the document placed on them, and based on the detection result of this automatic detection function, an image can be formed on a recording medium (paper) of the same size as the placed document, for example.

[0011] On the other hand, for example, when executing a job such as a copy job, if the document size is not set and the document is not detected, the automatic detection function may issue a warning that the document size has not been detected.

[0012] A warning indicating that the original document size is not detected is a useful function in situations where the original document is not actually placed by the user. However, for example, if the timing when the original document is placed on the document table by the user is before the image reading device is activated, or if an original document with an original document size smaller than the detectable original document size such as a business card is placed on the document table, the automatic detection function may determine that the original document size is not detected.

[0013] In this case, although the user has correctly placed the original document on the document table, a warning indicating that the original document size is not detected may be displayed, which may interfere with the user's operation.

[0014] In the present disclosure, an image reading device capable of avoiding the unnecessary display of a message indicating that the original document size is not detected and guiding the user to perform appropriate operations so that the user is aware of operations that do not result in the display of unnecessary warnings is realized in the following embodiments.

[0015] [1 First Embodiment] In the first embodiment, when an execution instruction for a job is received and the size setting of the original document that can be detected by the detection unit is not set and the detection result of the original document cannot be obtained from the detection unit, a notification screen regarding the detection of the original document is displayed according to the operation history of the user or the device status of the image reading device. [1.1 Functional Configuration] FIG. 1 is an external perspective view for explaining the overall configuration of the multifunction device 10 as an image reading device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction device 10.

[0016] The multifunction device 10 includes a control unit 11, a display unit 13, an operation input unit 15, a communication unit 17, a storage unit 19, and an image processing unit 21.

[0017] The control unit 11 comprehensively controls the multifunction device 10. The control unit 11 can be composed of one or more processing units (e.g., a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a SoC (System on Chip), etc.). The control unit 11 realizes its functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the memory unit 19. The control unit 11 may also be composed of one or more control circuits.

[0018] The display unit 13 displays various information to the user. The display unit 13 can be configured as, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, etc. The display unit 13 displays operation screens according to the status of the multifunction device 10 (for example, a home screen (not shown), execution screens related to setting and executing each job), and notification screens including warnings, which will be described later.

[0019] The operation input unit 15 receives information input from the user or other parties. The operation input unit 15 can be configured with various input devices such as operation keys and buttons, including hard keys and software keys. The operation input unit 15 can also be configured as a touch panel that allows information input via the display unit 13. When the operation input unit 15 is configured as a touch panel, it can detect user touch, tap, swipe operations on objects such as operation keys and buttons displayed via the display unit 13, and acquire coordinate information and pressure information on the touch panel. Common input methods for the touch panel can be, for example, resistive, infrared, electromagnetic induction, and capacitive touch methods.

[0020] The communication unit 17 includes 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 17 may also include 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.

[0021] The image processing unit 21 includes an image forming unit 211 and an image input unit 213. The image forming unit 211 feeds paper from the paper tray 25, forms an output image (printed image) on the paper based on image data (data from reading the original document), and then discharges the paper into the output tray 27. The image forming unit 211 can be configured, for example, by a laser printer employing an electrophotographic method. In this case, the image forming unit 211 performs image formation using toner supplied from a toner cartridge (not shown) corresponding to toner colors (e.g., cyan, magenta, yellow, black).

[0022] The image input unit 213 includes a document cover 2131, a document tray 2133, and a detection unit 2135. The document cover 2131, as a cover member, is connected to the document tray 2133 via a hinge member (not shown) and is configured to open and close relative to the document tray 2133 in the direction of the arrow in Figure 1. An automatic document feeder (ADF) is provided on the upper part of the document cover 2131, and a holding member (document mat) (not shown) is provided on the surface facing (contacting) the contact glass provided on the document tray 2133, having approximately the same area as the contact glass and holding down the document placed on the contact glass.

[0023] The document tray 2133 can be configured as a box-shaped component equipped with a light source (not shown), a contact glass on which the document is placed, and an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or CIS (Contact Image Sensor) that is movable in the longitudinal direction of the document tray 2133. The image sensor is positioned on the contact glass where a reflected light image of the document placed on it, illuminated by the light source, is formed, and image data is generated by reading this reflected light image.

[0024] The detection unit 2135 is a detection member that detects the document (document size) placed on the document glass 2133. The detection unit 2135 can use optical or mechanical sensor members, and the detection result from the detection unit 2135 is output to the control unit 11 as a detection signal. The detection unit 2135 has pre-set detectable document sizes (for example, A3 size, B4 size, A4 size, B5 size, A5 size, ..., business card size, direct input). For example, if the document size of the document placed on the document glass 2133 is business card size (or smaller) or a size that requires direct input, if the document size does not conform to the paper standard (JIS standard size), or for reasons such as the timing of the device startup of the multifunction printer 10, the detection of the document (document size) may be impossible. On the other hand, if a document of a size detectable by the detection unit 2135 is placed on the document tray 2133 after the detection unit 2135 has reached a state where it can detect the document (document size), and the document is detected by the detection unit 2135, the document size of that document will be uniquely determined to be the document size detectable by the detection unit 2135. Therefore, in this disclosure, "document size not detected" is synonymous with "document not detected (not detected)," and "document size detected" is synonymous with "document detected."

[0025] Incidentally, the image input unit 213 may include an interface that allows acquisition of image data stored in a storage device such as a USB memory, in file formats such as TIFF, BMP, or JPEG, or image data transmitted from an external terminal device (not shown). Furthermore, the image input unit 213 may generate image data for data transmission by applying, for example, shading correction or density correction to the acquired image data.

[0026] 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).

[0027] In the first embodiment, the storage unit 19 stores a control program 191, a display control program 192, a job control program 193, a detection unit control program 194, and a device status acquisition program 195, and reserves a setting information storage area 196, a device status storage area 197, a notification screen information storage area 198, an operation history storage area 199, and a job storage area 200.

[0028] The control program 191 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when comprehensively controlling the multifunction device 10. After reading the control program 191, the control unit 11 controls the operation of hardware such as the display unit 13, the operation input unit 15, the communication unit 17, and the image processing unit 21.

[0029] The display control program 192 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when controlling the output of operation screens displayed on the display unit 13 or the operation input unit 15 configured as a touch panel (for example, function (menu) selection screens such as the home screen (not shown), execution screens related to setting and executing each job), and notification screens including warnings, which will be described later. The control unit 11, having read the display control program 192, controls the display on the display unit 13 (operation input unit 15).

[0030] The job control program 193 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when executing various jobs such as copy jobs, print jobs, scan jobs, fax jobs, and email sending jobs. After reading the job control program 193, the control unit 11 sets the device mode of the multifunction printer 10 to the job mode for executing each job (for example, copy mode, print mode, scan mode, fax mode, email sending mode, etc.) and executes the job for which it has received an execution instruction.

[0031] The detection unit control program 194 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when it detects a document placed on the document glass 2133. After reading the detection unit control program 194, the control unit 11 controls the drive of the detection unit 2135 to determine whether or not a document is placed on the document glass 2133. The control unit 11, after reading the detection unit control program 194, may also control the drive of the detection unit 2135 to determine whether or not the size of the document placed on the document glass 2133 has been detected.

[0032] The device status acquisition program 195 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when acquiring the device status of the multifunction printer 10. Here, the device status of the multifunction printer 10 may include information regarding the capabilities, functions, and operating status of paper feeders, paper outputters, or post-processing devices that are installed on the multifunction printer 10 as standard equipment or options. In the first embodiment, paper information such as the type and size of paper stored in the paper feed tray 25 installed as a paper feeder on the multifunction printer 10 is treated as the device status of the multifunction printer 10.

[0033] The configuration information storage area 196 is a storage area that stores device configuration information for the multifunction printer 10, as well as configuration information necessary for job execution. Here, an example of configuration information stored in the configuration information storage area 196 will be explained using Figure 12(a).

[0034] Figure 12(a) shows an example configuration of a configuration information file 1961 for managing configuration information. The control unit 11 can perform device settings and jobs necessary for driving the device by reading the configuration information file 1961. The configuration information file 1961 may be a data file in a format such as a text file, XML file, or JSON file, or it may be binary data. Figure 12(a) is an example of managing configuration information (configuration items) mainly related to copy jobs as a configuration information file 1961. Here, the document size, which is one of the configuration items in the configuration information file 1961, is an item related to setting the document size that can be detected by the detection unit 2135, and Figure 12(a) shows that the document size setting is set to "not set". Also, the document size warning setting is an item that sets whether to enable or disable notification settings such as a notification screen that includes a warning that the document size has not been detected, and Figure 12(a) shows that the document size warning setting is set to "enabled". The control unit 11 can enable or disable the document size warning setting by referring to the setting value of the document size warning setting.

[0035] The device status storage area 197 is a storage area that stores the device status of the multifunction printer 10 acquired by the control unit 11.

[0036] The notification screen information storage area 198 is a storage area that stores screen information such as notification screens, including warnings.

[0037] The operation history storage area 199 is a storage area that stores the user's operation history performed on the multifunction printer 10 (for example, opening and closing the document cover 2131).

[0038] The job storage area 200 is a storage area that stores job execution instructions entered by the user, as well as jobs that have already been executed, as historical information.

[0039] [1.2 Processing Flow] Next, the processing flow according to the first embodiment will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 3. The processing described in Figure 3 is performed by the control unit 11 of the multifunction device 10 by reading the control program 191, the display control program 192, the job control program 193, the detection unit control program 194, the device status acquisition program 195, etc.

[0040] When processing begins, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the document size has been set for the document to be read, which is placed on the document glass 2133 (step S10).

[0041] If the control unit 11 determines that the document size has been set, it proceeds to step S30 (step S10; Yes → step S30). On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the document size has not been set, it determines whether or not the document (document size) has been detected by the detection unit 2135 (step S10; No → step S12). In this case, the control unit 11 only needs to determine whether or not the document (document size) has been detected based on whether or not it has received a detection signal from the detection unit 2135.

[0042] If the control unit 11 determines that the document (document size) has been detected by the detection unit 2135, it proceeds to step S32 (step S12; Yes → step S32). On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the document (document size) has not been detected by the detection unit 2135, it determines whether or not it has received a user instruction to select the start button (step S12; No → step S14).

[0043] If the control unit 11 determines that it has received a user's instruction to select the start button, it determines whether or not the user's operation of opening and closing the document cover 2131 has been detected and stored in the user's operation history (step S16).

[0044] If the control unit 11 determines that it has detected the user opening and closing the document cover 2131, it displays a second notification screen and proceeds to step S30 (step S16; Yes → step S18 → step S30). When the document cover 2131 is opened or closed, there is a high probability that a document is placed on the document tray 2133. However, since the document (document size) is not detected, the control unit 11 estimates that a document (of a document size) that cannot be detected by the detection unit 2135 has been placed on the tray. The control unit 11 displays a notification screen (second notification screen) that includes a warning prompting the user to change the document setting to a smaller document size, such as business card size.

[0045] On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that it has not detected the user opening and closing the document cover 2131, it determines, as part of the device status of the multifunction printer 10, whether or not paper of the same size is stored in all of the paper trays 25 installed in the multifunction printer 10 (step S16; No → step S20).

[0046] If the control unit 11 determines that all paper trays 25 installed in the multifunction printer 10 are filled with paper of the same size, it restricts the display of the first notification screen and proceeds to step S30 (step S20; Yes → step 22 → step S30). When all paper trays 25 installed in the multifunction printer 10 are filled with paper of the same size, the user can understand the output size of the paper used for printing, and therefore the control unit 11 estimates that there is a high probability that the document settings have been made according to that output size (that a document of the appropriate size for that output size has been placed). The control unit 11 restricts the display of the first notification screen, which includes a warning that the document size has not been detected.

[0047] On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that no paper of the same size is stored in any of the paper trays 25 installed in the multifunction printer 10, it determines whether or not the paper tray 25 installed in the multifunction printer 10 contains the largest size of paper that the multifunction printer 10 can handle (step S20; No → step S24).

[0048] If the control unit 11 determines that the paper tray 25 installed in the multifunction printer 10 contains a paper tray 25 that can hold the largest size of paper that the multifunction printer 10 can handle, the control unit 11 displays a third notification screen and proceeds to step S30 (step S24; Yes → step S26 → step S30). If the paper tray 25 installed in the multifunction printer 10 contains a paper tray 25 that can hold the largest size of paper that the multifunction printer 10 can handle, printing output on the largest size paper is possible and no image loss occurs. Therefore, the control unit 11 displays a third notification screen that includes a warning that printing output will be done on the largest size paper.

[0049] On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the paper tray 25 installed in the multifunction printer 10 does not contain a paper tray 25 that can hold the largest size of paper that the multifunction printer 10 can handle, the control unit 11 displays a first notification screen that includes a warning that the document size has not been detected (step S24; No → step S28). In addition, if the start button selection instruction is received, the document scanning may be interrupted and the first notification screen may be displayed.

[0050] The control unit 11 then determines whether or not the document has been detected by the detection unit 2135 while the first notification screen is displayed (step S30). For example, if the control unit 11 determines that the document has been detected by the detection unit 2135 because the user placed the document on the document glass 2133 while the first notification screen is displayed, the control unit 11 displays a notification screen indicating that the document has been detected and terminates the process (step S30; Yes → step S32 → terminate). On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the document has not been detected by the detection unit 2135, the control unit 11 waits until the document is detected by the detection unit 2135 (step S30; No).

[0051] Next, the process executed by the control unit 11 based on the selection instructions of the in-screen selection buttons such as the “Document Settings” button, the “Start” button, or the “Cancel” button provided on the notification screen (for example, the second notification screen) will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 4.

[0052] When the control unit 11 receives a selection instruction for the “Document Settings” button on the notification screen, it terminates the display of the notification screen, displays the document settings screen, and ends the process (step S40; “Document Settings” → step S42 → end).

[0053] Meanwhile, when the control unit 11 receives a selection instruction from the "Start" button on the notification screen, it executes the job and terminates the process (step S40 "Start" → step 44 → termination).

[0054] Furthermore, when the control unit 11 receives a selection instruction for the "Cancel" button on the notification screen, it does not execute the job (cancels the execution of the job) and terminates the display of the notification screen (step S40 "Cancel" → step S46 → termination).

[0055] While Figure 4 illustrates the functions of the in-screen selection buttons on the second notification screen, the "Start" and "Cancel" buttons have functions common to both the first and third notification screens.

[0056] [1.3 Example of Operation] Next, an example of operation according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 5 is an example of operation corresponding to the process in step S14 of Figure 3, and is, for example, an example of the configuration of the document scanning start screen (copy screen) W10 that the control unit 11 displays when a copy job (copy function) is selected by the user on a home screen (not shown).

[0057] The document scanning start screen W10 includes a "Start" button B10. The control unit 11 determines whether or not it has received a user's instruction to select the "Start" button B10.

[0058] Figure 6(a) shows an example configuration of the notification screen W12, which is the first notification screen displayed in step S28 of Figure 3. The notification screen W12 includes a notification content display area R10 and a "Start" button B14 and a "Cancel" button B16 as in-screen selection buttons.

[0059] The notification content display area R10 is a display area that displays the notification content to be displayed on the notification screen W12. On the notification screen W12, which is the first notification screen, the control unit 11 displays a warning that the document size has not been detected, "Document size has not been detected. Please check the document," as the notification content in the notification content display area R10.

[0060] The "Start" button B14 is an in-screen selection button that accepts a user's instruction to execute a job. Upon receiving the selection instruction from the "Start" button B14, the control unit 11 executes the job related to scanning the document. At this time, the control unit 11 executes the job related to scanning the document, treating the document size of the document placed on the document glass 2133 as the maximum size that the multifunction printer 10 can handle. For example, if the maximum size that the multifunction printer 10 can handle is A3 and a copy job is executed, the control unit 11 scans the document placed on the document glass 2133 as an A3 document and prints it on the paper stored in the paper tray displayed on the document scanning start screen W10 at the time the selection instruction from the "Start" button B14 is received, at the magnification displayed on the document scanning start screen W10 at the time the selection instruction from the "Start" button B14 is received. On the other hand, the "Cancel" button B16 is an in-screen selection button that accepts an instruction to cancel the execution of a job. When the "Cancel" button B16 is selected, the control unit 11 cancels the job execution and terminates the display of the notification screen W12.

[0061] Next, Figure 6(b) shows an example configuration of notification screen W14, which is the second notification screen displayed in step S18 of Figure 3. Notification screen W14 includes the same configuration as notification screen W12, plus the “Document Settings” button B18. In the following explanation, identical components may be denoted by the same reference numerals and their explanations may be omitted.

[0062] The notification content display area R10 is a display area that displays the notification content to be displayed on the notification screen W14. On the notification screen W14, which is the second notification screen, the control unit 11 displays a warning in the notification content display area R10 prompting the user to change the document setting to a smaller document size such as business card size: “Document size has not been detected. For small document sizes, please specify the direct input size or business card size.”

[0063] The “Document Settings” button B18 is an in-screen selection button that accepts user instructions to change the document settings (document size). When the “Document Settings” button B18 is selected, the control unit 11 terminates the display of the notification screen W14 and displays a document settings screen (not shown). If the document size is selected or directly entered on the document settings screen, the process proceeds as follows: “Step S30; Yes → Step S32 → End”.

[0064] Next, Figure 7(a) shows an example configuration of notification screen W16, which is the third notification screen displayed in step S26 of Figure 3. Notification screen W16 can have substantially the same configuration as notification screen W12.

[0065] The notification content display area R10 is a display area that displays the notification content to be displayed on the notification screen W16. On the notification screen W16, which is the third notification screen, the control unit 11 displays a warning in the notification content display area R10 that the document will be printed on the largest size paper, "The document size has not been detected. If you select Start, it will be printed on the largest size paper."

[0066] Figure 7(b) shows an example configuration of notification screen W18, which is displayed as a notification screen in step S32 of Figure 3. Notification screen W18 can have substantially the same configuration as notification screen W12.

[0067] The notification content display area R10 is a display area that displays the notification content to be displayed on the notification screen W18. On the notification screen W18, the control unit 11 displays the notification "Document detected." as the notification content in the notification content display area R10.

[0068] As described above, according to the first embodiment, when a copy or other job execution instruction is received while the user has not set the size of the document and the detection unit has not detected a document size that can be detected, a notification screen regarding document detection can be displayed according to the user's operation history or the status of the image reading device. With this configuration, it is possible to limit unnecessary warnings to the user and avoid interfering with the user's operation.

[0069] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, if the document (size) is not detected, the user can be guided to take appropriate action, thereby making the user aware of the actions required to avoid displaying unnecessary warnings.

[0070] [2 Second Embodiment] The second embodiment is a system that manages user information (authentication information) in association with the operation history of the user (also referred to as the authenticated user), and controls the display of a notification screen regarding the detection of a document.

[0071] [2.1 Functional Configuration] Figure 8 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction printer 30 as an image reading device according to the second embodiment. In addition to the configuration of the multifunction printer 10 according to the first embodiment, the multifunction printer 30 according to the second embodiment stores an authentication program 201 and reserves a user information storage area 203.

[0072] The authentication program 201 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when authenticating a user attempting to log in to the multifunction printer 30. Upon reading the authentication program 201, the control unit 11 functions as an authentication unit. If the user authentication function is enabled, it displays a login screen (not shown) on the display unit 13 and accepts input such as a login name and login password. The control unit 11 stores the login name and login password related to user authentication in the user information storage area 203, and can authenticate the user by comparing the login name and login password entered via the login screen. Login authentication can also be performed using knowledge authentication based on the input of a login name and login password, as well as possession authentication using tokens, keys, IC (Integrated Circuit) cards, smartphones, etc., or biometric authentication such as facial recognition or fingerprint recognition. The control unit 11 can switch user authentication on or off based on settings configured via a settings screen (not shown). Furthermore, the authentication unit can use an external authentication server, for example, in addition to the multifunction printer 30 itself, as the authentication destination for users attempting to log in.

[0073] The user information storage area 203 is a storage area that stores user authentication information and the like. Here, an example of user information stored in the user information storage area 203 will be explained using Figure 12(b).

[0074] Figure 12(b) shows an example configuration of the user information management table 2031, which manages user information. Note that user information is not limited to a table format; it may also be managed in a database format.

[0075] The user information management table 2031 includes the following user information management items: ID, username, login name, login password, permissions, and number of times the notification screen was displayed. The ID is an identifier that uniquely identifies a user. The username represents the name of the user. The login name represents the login username used to log in to the multifunction printer 30, and the login password represents the login password set for that login name. Permissions represent the operational permissions for the multifunction printer 30. The number of times the notification screen was displayed represents the number of times the notification screen, including a warning that the document size was not detected, was displayed to the user identified by the username.

[0076] For example, the user identified by ID "#003" with username "User_01" has the login name "aaaaa", login password "a12345", and operational privileges set to "Administrator" for the multifunction printer 30. Furthermore, it is indicated that the notification screen has not been displayed to this user ("0" times).

[0077] On the other hand, the user identified by ID "#007" with username "User_03" has the login name "ccccc", login password "b34567", and operating privileges set to "General" for the multifunction printer 30. Furthermore, it indicates that the notification screen has been displayed "10" times for this user.

[0078] [2.2 Processing Flow] Next, the processing flow according to the second embodiment will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 9. The processing described in Figure 9 is performed by the control unit 11 of the multifunction printer 30 by reading the control program 191, display control program 192, job control program 193, detection unit control program 194, device status acquisition program 195, authentication program 201, etc.

[0079] The control unit 11 performs user authentication by displaying a login screen (not shown) on the display unit 13 at a timing such as when the power of the multifunction printer 30 is turned on, and accepting input of a login name and login password (step S50).

[0080] The control unit 11 performs user authentication by comparing the login name and login password entered by the user with the user information management table 2031, as illustrated in Figure 12(b). If the control unit 11 determines that authentication is successful, it reads user information such as the user's privileges and the number of times the notification screen has been displayed from the user information management table 2031 (Step S52; Yes → Step S54). On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that user authentication has failed, it repeats the process from Step S50 (Step S52; No → Step S50).

[0081] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the document size has been set for the document to be scanned that is placed on the document glass 2133 (step S56).

[0082] If the control unit 11 determines that the document size has been set, it terminates the process (Step S56; Yes → Termination). On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the document size has not been set, it determines whether or not the detection unit 2135 has detected the document (document size) (Step S56; No → Step S58).

[0083] If the control unit 11 determines that the document (document size) has been detected by the detection unit 2135, it terminates the process (step S58; Yes → Termination). On the other hand, if the detection unit 2135 determines that the document (document size) has not been detected, the control unit 11 determines whether or not it has received a user's instruction to select the start button (step S58; No → Step S60).

[0084] If the control unit 11 determines that it has received a user instruction to select the start button, it determines whether the number of times the notification screen for the user, read in step S54, has been displayed is equal to or greater than a predetermined number of times (step S60; Yes → step S62). On the other hand, if it determines that it has not received a user instruction to select the start button, the control unit 11 waits until it receives such an instruction (step S60; No).

[0085] If the control unit 11 determines that the number of times the notification screen has been displayed to the user is equal to or greater than a predetermined number of times, it displays a fourth notification screen that includes factors that may cause the document to not be detected (operations that may result in a warning being displayed), and terminates the process (Step S62; Yes → Step S64 → Termination). On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the number of times the notification screen has been displayed to the user is less than a predetermined number of times, it terminates the process (Step S62; No → Termination).

[0086] For example, if the predetermined number of displays is set to "3", the username "User_02" as exemplified in Figure 12(b) has had the notification screen displayed "2 times", and therefore does not meet the requirements of step S62. Consequently, for the username "User_02", the processing in step S64 is omitted. On the other hand, the username "User_03" has had the notification screen displayed "10 times", and therefore meets the requirements of step S62. Consequently, for the username "User_03", the processing in step S64 is executed, and a fourth notification screen is displayed that includes factors that may cause the document to be undetected (operations that may result in a warning being displayed).

[0087] Furthermore, if a specific authenticated user is frequently shown a notification screen (warning), as exemplified by the username "User_03," you may contact the administrator and have them guide the authenticated user on how to prevent the notification screen (warning) from being displayed.

[0088] [2.3 Example of Operation] Next, an example of operation according to the second embodiment will be described. Figure 10 shows an example configuration of a notification screen W20 as a fourth notification screen, which includes factors that may cause the document to not be detected (operations that may result in a warning being displayed). The notification screen W20 can have substantially the same configuration as the notification screen W12.

[0089] The notification content display area R10 is a display area that displays the notification content to be displayed on the notification screen W20. On the notification screen W20, which is the fourth notification screen, the control unit 11 displays "Document size not detected. Is the document within the scanning frame?" as an example of a reason why the document is not detected, in the notification content display area R10. As shown in Figure 10, the notification content display area R10 may display image information related to the reason why the document is not detected in addition to text information related to the reason why the document is not detected, or it may display only text information. Furthermore, the notification content displayed in the notification content display area R10 may be changed according to the operation history of a specific authenticated user. For example, if the operation history of a specific authenticated user is recorded as having detected the opening and closing operation of the document cover 2131, then, as shown in Figure 10, "Document size not detected. Is the document within the scanning frame?" may be displayed as the notification content in the notification content display area R10. On the other hand, if the operation history of a specific authenticated user does not record that the document cover 2131 was opened or closed, the following message may be displayed in the notification display area R10: "Document size not detected. Have you left a document on the document tray?"

[0090] As described above, according to the second embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, if the number of times the notification screen is displayed to a specific authenticated user exceeds a predetermined number of times, that is, if the notification screen (warning) is displayed to a specific authenticated user at a high frequency, the factors that cause the document to go undetected can be explained to the specific authenticated user, thereby making the specific authenticated user aware of the measures that can be taken to prevent the notification screen (warning) from being displayed.

[0091] [3 Third Embodiment] The third embodiment is a configuration in which, when a notification screen (warning) is displayed frequently to a specific authenticated user, the display of the notification screen (warning) is controlled by the selection of the Start button or Cancel button after the notification screen (warning) is displayed.

[0092] The functional configuration of the multifunction printer according to the third embodiment can be substantially the same as the functional configuration of the multifunction printer 30 according to the second embodiment, so a detailed explanation is omitted here.

[0093] [3.1 Processing Flow] Next, the processing flow according to the third embodiment will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 11. The processing described in Figure 11 is a process that follows step S64 in Figure 9 according to the second embodiment. Therefore, the explanation of the processing up to step S64 will be omitted.

[0094] After displaying the fourth notification screen, the control unit 11 determines whether or not it has received a user instruction to select the Start button (step S64 → step S66). If it determines that it has received a user instruction to select the Start button, the control unit 11 restricts the display of the first notification screen and terminates the process (step S66; Yes → step S68 → terminate).

[0095] Incidentally, if the control unit 11 determines that it has not received a user's instruction to select the Start button, it determines whether or not it has received an instruction to select the Cancel button (Step S66; No → Step S70). If it determines that it has received an instruction from the user to select the Cancel button, the control unit 11 displays a second notification screen and terminates the process (Step S70; Yes → Step S72 → Termination). On the other hand, if it determines that it has not received an instruction from the user to select the Cancel button, the control unit 11 terminates the process (Step S70; No → Termination).

[0096] As described above, according to the third embodiment, in addition to the effects of the second embodiment, when a notification screen (warning) is displayed frequently to a specific authenticated user, the display of the notification screen (warning) can be controlled depending on whether the Start button or Cancel button is selected after the notification screen (warning) is displayed. If the Start button is selected despite the notification screen (warning) being displayed, it is highly likely that the specific authenticated user is ignoring the warning (warning to the specific authenticated user is unnecessary), so the first notification screen, which includes a warning that the document size has not been detected, can be prevented from being displayed. On the other hand, if the Cancel button is selected after the notification screen (warning) is displayed, it is highly likely that the specific authenticated user will check the document size settings based on the warning, so a second notification screen, which includes a warning prompting the user to change the document settings, can be displayed.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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]

[0103] 10, 30 multifunction devices 11 Control Unit 13 Display section 15 Operation Input Section 17 Communications Department 19 Memory section 21 Image Processing Unit 211 Image forming unit 213 Image Input Section 2131 Manuscript cover 2133 Manuscript stand 2135 Detection unit

Claims

1. An image reading device that performs jobs involving reading a document, A detection unit capable of detecting the document placed on the document tray, The system includes a control unit that controls the display of a notification screen regarding the detection of the aforementioned document, The control unit, An image reading device characterized in that, when an execution instruction for the aforementioned job is received, if the size of the document is not set and the document is not detected by the detection unit, the display of a first notification screen regarding the detection of the document is controlled according to the user's operation history or the device status of the image reading device.

2. A cover member formed to be openable and closable relative to the document tray, Equipped with a memory unit, The control unit, The image reading device according to claim 1, characterized in that if the storage unit stores the user's operation history indicating the opening and closing operation of the cover member, it displays a second notification screen different from the first notification screen.

3. The control unit, The image reading device according to claim 1, characterized in that, when it is determined that the status of the image reading device is such that all paper trays installed in the image reading device are filled with paper of the same size, the display of the first notification screen is restricted.

4. The control unit, The image reading device according to claim 1, characterized in that, when it is determined that the status of the image reading device includes a paper tray in the paper tray attached to the image reading device that holds the largest size of paper that can be handled by the image reading device, it displays a third notification screen different from the first notification screen.

5. An authentication unit that authenticates the user based on authentication information, Equipped with a memory unit, The control unit, The image reading device according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit stores in association the authentication information of an authenticated user authenticated by the authentication unit with the number of times the notification screen has been displayed to the authenticated user, and when the number of displays exceeds a predetermined number of displays, it displays a fourth notification screen different from the first notification screen.

6. The control unit, The image reading device according to claim 5, characterized in that it includes in the display content of the fourth notification screen the factors that cause the aforementioned document to not be detected.

7. The control unit, The image reading device according to claim 1, characterized in that when the detection unit detects the document, it displays a notification screen indicating that the document has been detected.

8. A control method for an image reading device having a detection unit capable of detecting a document placed on a document table, and performing a job involving reading the document, A control method for an image reading device, characterized in that, when an execution instruction for the aforementioned job is received, if the size of the document is not set and the document is not detected by the detection unit, the display of a notification screen regarding the detection of the document is controlled according to the user's operation history or the device status of the image reading device.

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