Information processing device

Abstract

Regardless of the application used, it appropriately reflects the expected output results based on the image data print settings. [Solution] The method, upon receiving a print execution command for image data from an application, determines whether predetermined print setting saving conditions are met. If the print setting saving conditions are met, the initial and final print settings for the image data are stored in the storage unit linked to the application information, and the image data and final print settings are transmitted to the image forming apparatus. Subsequently, upon receiving a print command for image data from an application, if the print settings for the image data are common with the initial print settings stored in the storage unit linked to the application information in one or more predetermined setting items, a suggestion is displayed asking whether the initial print settings for the image data should be changed to the final print settings and printed. If a change command is received, the image data and final print settings are transmitted to the image forming apparatus.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus, and more particularly, to an information processing apparatus that transmits image data and print settings of the image data to an image forming apparatus to execute printing.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in an image forming apparatus such as an MFP (Multifunction Peripheral), printing of an image has been performed based on image data received from an information processing apparatus such as a personal computer (PC), a smartphone, or a tablet, and print settings of the image data.

[0003] As a technique related to printing of such an image forming apparatus, conventionally, when an information request indicates a first content due to a specific printing application being a first type of printing application, first condition information indicating a first printing condition is determined as target condition information, and when the information request indicates a second content different from the first content due to the specific printing application being a second type of printing application different from the first type of printing application, second condition information indicating a second printing condition different from the first printing condition is determined as the target condition information, whereby a technique capable of executing appropriate processing according to the type of a printing application of a terminal device has been disclosed (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [[ID=1"]]

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] When printing images based on image data from such applications, using specific print settings such as double-sided printing or collated printing can result in different output depending on the application, even if the printing application and image data print settings are exactly the same.

[0007] Therefore, users of information processing equipment had to go through a process of trial and error, meticulously changing the image data printing settings for each application in order to obtain the expected output results from the image forming apparatus, which meant that it was not very convenient for users.

[0008] This disclosure has been made in consideration of the circumstances described above, and its purpose is to provide an information processing device that, regardless of the application used, more appropriately reflects the expected output results from the print settings of the image data and outputs them to the image forming apparatus than in the conventional method. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] This disclosure comprises a storage unit that launches and stores a program for at least one application that creates or displays image data; an operation unit that receives commands from a user; a display unit that displays a screen for setting print settings for the image data when the operation unit receives a print command for the image data to an external image forming apparatus; a communication unit that transmits the image data and the print settings when the operation unit receives a print execution command for the image data to the image forming apparatus; and a control unit that controls the storage unit, the operation unit, the display unit, and the communication unit, wherein when the operation unit receives a print execution command for the image data from the application, the control unit determines whether predetermined print setting saving conditions have been met, and if the print setting saving conditions have been met, it links the image data to the application information and The present invention provides an information processing device characterized by storing the initial and final print settings of a data user in the storage unit, causing the image forming apparatus to transmit the image data and the final print settings of the image data to the communication unit, and then, when the operation unit receives a print command for the image data from the application, if the print settings of the image data are common with one or more predetermined setting items to the initial print settings stored in the storage unit in association with the application information, displaying a suggestion on the display unit whether or not to change the initial print settings of the image data to the final print settings stored in the storage unit and print, and when the operation unit receives a command to change the print settings, causing the image forming apparatus to transmit the image data and the final print settings stored in the storage unit to the communication unit.

[0010] In this disclosure, "image forming apparatus" refers to a device that outputs images, such as a copier with a copying function, like a printer that uses an electrophotographic method for image formation with toner, or an MFP (Multifunction Peripheral) that also includes functions other than copying. "The initial and final print settings for the image data" refers to the print settings initially set by the user for the image data and the print settings that the user ultimately approved. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to this disclosure, when predetermined print setting saving conditions are met, the initial and final print settings are saved in a storage unit linked to the application information. Subsequently, when a print command for image data is received, if the print settings are the same in predetermined settings as the initial print settings saved in link to the application information, a suggestion is displayed on the display unit whether or not to change the print settings of the image data to the saved final print settings and print. This makes it possible to realize an information processing device that, regardless of the application used, reflects the expected output result from the print settings of the image data more appropriately than before when outputting to the image forming apparatus.

[0012] Furthermore, preferred embodiments of this disclosure will be described.

[0013] In the information processing device provided in this disclosure, the one or more setting items may include at least one setting item from among the aggregated printing setting and the duplex printing setting.

[0014] In this way, when the operation unit receives a print command for image data from an application, if the print settings for the image data are common to at least one of the initial print settings, collated print settings, and duplex print settings stored in the memory unit linked to the application information, the display unit will show a suggestion on whether or not to change the print settings for the image data to the final print settings stored in the memory unit and print. This makes it possible to realize an information processing device that, regardless of the application used, reflects the expected output result from the print settings of the image data more appropriately than before and outputs it to the image forming apparatus.

[0015] In the information processing device according to this disclosure, the control unit may determine that the print setting save condition has been met when the operation unit receives a predetermined number of print commands for the same application for the image data within a predetermined time.

[0016] In this way, by determining that the print setting saving conditions have been met when print commands for the same application's image data are received repeatedly in a short period of time, it is possible to realize an information processing device that reflects the expected output results from the image data's print settings more appropriately than before, regardless of the application being used, and outputs them to the image forming apparatus.

[0017] In the information processing device provided in this disclosure, the control unit may, when the print setting saving conditions are met, save the print settings related to the last print command received among the print commands received within a predetermined waiting time linked to the application information as the final print settings in the storage unit.

[0018] In this way, when the same application's image data is repeatedly printed multiple times in a short period of time, the print settings related to the last received print command are saved as the final print settings. This makes it possible to realize an information processing device that, regardless of the application used, reflects the expected output results from the image data's print settings more appropriately than before and outputs them to the image forming apparatus.

[0019] In the information processing apparatus according to this disclosure, the control unit may, when the operation unit receives a print command for the image data from the application and the operation unit receives a command to save the print settings related to the print command, save the initial and final print settings in the storage unit in association with the information of the application, and cause the image forming apparatus to transmit the image data and the final print settings of the image data to the communication unit.

[0020] By doing so, when receiving a print command for the image data of an application, if a command to save the print settings is received from the user, the initial and final print settings are saved in association with the information of the application. Therefore, regardless of the difference in the application used, an information processing apparatus can be realized that causes the image forming apparatus to output an image more appropriately reflecting the expected output result from the print settings of the image data than in the conventional case.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0021] [Figure 1] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of an image forming system according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure. [Figure 2] It is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 3] It is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the user terminal in FIG. 1. [Figure 4] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a problem in the print processing of a conventional image forming system. [Figure 5] It is a flowchart showing an example of the transmission process of image data and print settings to the digital multifunction peripheral in the user terminal in FIG. 1. [Figure 6] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the print settings screen of the printer driver displayed on the display unit of the user terminal shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 7] It is an example of a proposal for changing the final print settings of the image data displayed on the display unit of the user terminal shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 8] It is a flowchart showing an example of the print processing of the digital multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 9] It is a flowchart showing an example of the transmission process of image data and print settings to the digital multifunction peripheral in the user terminal according to Embodiment 2 of this disclosure. [Figure 10] It is a flowchart showing an example of the print processing of the digital multifunction peripheral according to Embodiment 2 of this disclosure. [Figure 11]This is an example of a proposed change to the final print settings for image data displayed on the display unit of a digital multifunction printer according to Embodiment 2 of this disclosure. [Figure 12] This flowchart shows an example of the process of sending image data and print settings from a user terminal to a digital multifunction printer according to Embodiment 3 of this disclosure. [Figure 13] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a message displayed on the user terminal display unit according to Embodiment 3 of this disclosure, which inquires whether the final print settings of the printer drive have been saved. [Figure 14] This flowchart shows an example of a trial print process for a digital multifunction printer according to Embodiment 4 of this disclosure. [Figure 15] This flowchart shows an example of the process of sending image data and print settings to a digital multifunction printer from a user terminal according to Embodiment 5 of this disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0022] The following details of this disclosure will be illustrated with drawings. The following description is illustrative in all respects and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure.

[0023] [Embodiment 1] <Configuration of the image forming system 100> Based on Figures 1 to 3, a schematic configuration of an image forming system 100, including a digital multifunction printer 1 which is one embodiment of the image forming apparatus disclosed herein, will be described.

[0024] Figure 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of the image forming system 100 according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0025] As shown in Figure 1, the image forming system 100 disclosed herein consists of a digital multifunction printer 1 and a user terminal 2 connected via a network 3.

[0026] Digital multifunction device 1 is a device such as a multifunction printer or MFP that digitally processes image data and has copy, printer, scanner, and facsimile functions.

[0027] User terminal 2 sends image data to digital multifunction printer 1 and causes it to print an image based on that image data.

[0028] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of the digital multifunction printer 1 shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 2, the digital multifunction printer 1 comprises a control unit 10, an image data acquisition unit 11, an image forming unit 12, a storage unit 13, an image processing unit 14, a communication unit 15, and an operation panel 16.

[0029] The following describes each component of the digital multifunction printer 1.

[0030] The control unit 10 comprehensively controls the digital multifunction printer 1 and consists of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), various interface circuits, and the like.

[0031] The control unit 10 monitors and controls all loads, including detection by each sensor, motor, clutch, and operation panel 16, in order to control the operation of the entire digital multifunction printer 1.

[0032] The image data acquisition unit 11 detects and reads documents placed on the document glass or documents transported from the document tray, and sets the image data. It also acquires image data set by an information processing device such as a user terminal 2 or a facsimile machine (not shown).

[0033] The image forming unit 12 is the part that prints the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 11 and processed by the image processing unit 14 onto paper.

[0034] The memory unit 13 is an element or storage medium that stores information and control programs necessary to realize the various functions of the digital multifunction device 1. For example, semiconductor elements such as RAM and ROM, storage media such as hard disks, flash memory units, and SSDs (Solid State Drives) are used.

[0035] The storage unit 13 stores data necessary for printing the image data, such as image data and print settings for the image data. The storage unit 13 temporarily stores image data received from the user terminal 2 and print data including the print settings for said image data.

[0036] Furthermore, the data may be stored in different devices, such as a hard disk drive for the data storage area and a flash memory unit for the program storage area.

[0037] The image processing unit 14 is the part that converts the image data input from the image data acquisition unit 11 into appropriate electrical signals and processes them to make them suitable for output such as enlargement and reduction.

[0038] The communication unit 15 communicates with the user terminal 2 via the network 3 and sends and receives image data and data such as print settings for the image data.

[0039] Furthermore, the communication unit 15 communicates with external devices such as the user terminal 2, other image forming apparatuses, mobile information terminals, information processing devices, and facsimile machines, and sends and receives various types of information such as emails and faxes with these external devices.

[0040] The operation panel 16 consists of a display panel made of a liquid crystal panel or the like, and a touch panel, such as a capacitive type, which is placed on top of the display panel and detects the position where a finger is touched, and includes a display unit 161 and an operation unit 162.

[0041] The display unit 161 is the part that displays various types of information. The display unit 161 is composed of, for example, a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, or an EL display, and is a display device such as a monitor or line display for displaying electronic data such as processing status by the operating system or application software.

[0042] The display unit 161 displays the operation and status of the digital multifunction printer 1.

[0043] The control unit 162 is an interface for operating the digital multifunction printer 1 and is the part that receives commands from the user.

[0044] <Outline configuration of user terminal 2> Next, the general configuration of user terminal 2 will be explained based on Figure 3.

[0045] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of user terminal 2 in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 3, the user terminal 2 comprises a control unit 20, a storage unit 21, an image processing unit 22, a communication unit 23, a display unit 24, and an operation unit 25.

[0046] The following describes each component of user terminal 2.

[0047] The control unit 20 provides integrated control for the user terminal 2 and consists of a CPU, RAM, ROM, various interface circuits, and the like.

[0048] The control unit 20 monitors and controls all loads, including detection by each sensor and operation unit 25, in order to control the operation of the entire user terminal 2.

[0049] The memory unit 21 is an element or storage medium that stores information and control programs necessary to realize various functions of the user terminal 2. For example, semiconductor elements such as RAM and ROM, or storage media such as hard disks, flash memory units, and SSDs are used.

[0050] The storage unit 21 stores image data for the digital multifunction printer 1 to perform printing, as well as various data related to printing, such as print settings for the image data. Furthermore, as will be explained later in Figure 5, the memory unit 21 stores print settings linked to application information.

[0051] Furthermore, the data may be stored in different devices, such as a hard disk drive for the data storage area and a flash memory unit for the program storage area.

[0052] The image processing unit 22 is the part that converts image data into appropriate electrical signals and processes them to make them suitable for output such as enlargement and reduction.

[0053] The communication unit 23 communicates with the digital multifunction printer 1 via the network 3 and sends and receives image data and data such as print settings for said image data.

[0054] Furthermore, the communication unit 23 communicates with external devices such as the digital multifunction printer 1, portable information terminals, information processing devices, and facsimile machines via the network 3, and sends and receives various types of information such as emails and faxes with these devices.

[0055] The display unit 24 is the part that displays various types of information. The display unit 24 is composed of, for example, a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, or an EL display, and is a display device such as a monitor or line display for displaying electronic data such as processing status by the operating system or application software.

[0056] The display unit 24 displays the operation and status of the user terminal 2.

[0057] The operation unit 25 is an interface for operating the user terminal 2 and is the part that receives commands from the user.

[0058] The display unit 24 and the operation unit 25 may consist of a display panel made of a liquid crystal panel or the like, and a touch panel, such as a capacitive touch panel, which is placed on top of the display panel and detects the position where a finger is touched.

[0059] <Problems with the printing process of the conventional image forming system 100C> Next, based on Figure 4, we will explain the problems with the printing process of the conventional image forming system 100C. Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a problem in the printing process of the conventional image forming system 100C.

[0060] Figure 4 shows examples of print settings, preview images, expected output results, and actual output results displayed on the print settings screen of the user terminal 2's display unit 24 for printing images from two applications (App 1 and App 2).

[0061] For images in apps 1 and 2, the print settings are the same for both (collation: 2 in 1, double-sided: enabled, binding: long edge, orientation: portrait).

[0062] Regarding the printing of images from App 1, the expected output is as shown in the example of App 1 in Figure 4, where two images, Image A and Image B, are stacked vertically on the front surface, and two images, Image C and Image D, are stacked vertically on the back surface. The actual output results match the expected output results.

[0063] On the other hand, regarding the printing of images from App 2, the expected output is as shown in the example of App 2 in Figure 4, where two images, Image A and Image B, are stacked vertically on the front surface, and two images, Image C and Image D, are stacked vertically on the back surface.

[0064] However, the actual output differs from the expected result, as two images, Image A and Image B, rotated 90 degrees to the left, are stacked vertically from the bottom onto the front surface, while two images, Image C and Image D, rotated 90 degrees to the left, are stacked vertically from the bottom onto the back surface.

[0065] This is likely due to differences in specifications between applications. When such problems occurred, users had to go through a process of trial and error, making minor adjustments to print settings to achieve the desired results.

[0066] However, the relationship between the expected output and the actual output varies from application to application, and the result cannot be known until the output is actually produced, requiring repeated trial and error. Therefore, it is not only time-consuming and troublesome for the user to obtain the expected output, but ink and paper are also wasted, making it not very convenient for the user.

[0067] <Printing process of the image forming system 100 according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure> Next, the printing process of the image forming system 100 according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure will be described based on Figures 5 to 8. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the process of sending image data and print settings from the user terminal 2 in Figure 1 to the digital multifunction printer 1.

[0068] In step S1 of Figure 5, the control unit 20 of the user terminal 2 determines whether or not it has received a print command for image data (step S1).

[0069] If the print command for the image data is not received (the determination in step S1 is No), the control unit 20 returns to the determination in step S1.

[0070] On the other hand, if a print command for image data is received (if the determination in step S1 is Yes), in step S2, the control unit 20 displays the image data print settings screen on the display unit 24 and accepts the print settings (step S2).

[0071] Next, in step S3, the control unit 20 determines whether or not it has received an execution command to print the image data (step S3).

[0072] If the command to print the image data is not accepted (the determination in step S3 is No), the control unit 20 returns to the determination in step S3.

[0073] If the execution of printing the image data is canceled (if the determination in step S3 is canceled), the control unit 20 returns to the determination in step S1.

[0074] If a command to print image data is received (if the determination in step S3 is Yes), in step S4, the control unit 20 determines whether the proposed setting for changing the print settings of the image data is valid (step S4).

[0075] Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the printer drive print settings screen displayed on the display unit 24 of the user terminal 2 shown in Figure 1.

[0076] In the example shown in Figure 6, the printer driver UI displays print settings such as "1 copy", "A4", "4 pages", "2 in 1", "Duplex printing", "Long edge", "Portrait", and "Grayscale". Additionally, a preview image of the image data is displayed next to the print settings.

[0077] Additionally, a checkbox labeled "Enable suggestions for changing print settings" will appear below the print settings. Users can check this box if they want to enable suggestions for changing print settings for image data.

[0078] To print image data to the digital multifunction printer 1, the user selects the "Print" button in the lower right corner of the screen. To cancel the print operation, the user selects the "Cancel" button.

[0079] In step S4 of Figure 5, if the suggested setting for changing the print settings of the image data is not valid (the determination in step S4 is No), in step S8, the control unit 20 causes the digital multifunction printer 1 to send the image data and the print settings of the image data to the communication unit 23 (step S8), and then terminates the process.

[0080] On the other hand, if the suggested setting for changing the print settings of image data is valid (if the determination in step S4 is Yes), in step S5, the control unit 20 determines whether or not there is an initial print setting stored in the storage unit 21 that has one or more predetermined setting items in common with the print settings of the same application (step S5).

[0081] Examples of predetermined settings include print settings such as collation settings and double-sided printing, which often result in different print output depending on the application.

[0082] The control unit 20 determines whether these settings are common to all users, and if it is suspected that the user is experimenting with print settings, including the aggregation of the same application and double-sided printing, it can suggest changes to the print settings.

[0083] If there are no initial print settings stored in the storage unit 21 that share one or more predetermined setting items in the print settings of the same application (if the determination in step S5 is No), then in step S6, the control unit 20 determines whether or not the predetermined print setting saving conditions have been met (step S6).

[0084] One example of a condition for saving print settings is when a predetermined print command for an image from the same application is repeated two or more times within a short period of time (e.g., one minute).

[0085] In this case, specific print instructions could include, for example, print instructions that involve collation and / or double-sided printing, or print instructions that only change the orientation of the printout.

[0086] If the above print commands are issued repeatedly within a short period of time, it is highly likely that the user changed the print settings and issued repeated print commands because the output differed from the expected result.

[0087] If the predetermined print setting saving conditions are not met (if the determination in step S6 is No), in step S8, the control unit 20 causes the digital multifunction printer 1 to send the image data and the print settings for the image data to the communication unit 23 (step S8), and then terminates the process.

[0088] On the other hand, if the predetermined print setting saving conditions are met (if the determination in step S6 is Yes), in step S7, the control unit 20 saves the initial print settings and final print settings in the storage unit 21, linked to the application information (step S7). In other words, the control unit 20 stores two print settings in the storage unit 21, linked to the application information: the print settings initially set by the user (initial print settings) and the print settings that the user ultimately approved (final print settings).

[0089] Subsequently, in step S8, the control unit 20 causes the digital multifunction printer 1 to send image data and print settings to the communication unit 23 (step S8), and then terminates the process.

[0090] Note that the print settings sent to the digital multifunction printer 1 are basically the print settings that the user ultimately approved (final print settings), regardless of whether the determination in step S4 is No, the determination in step S6 is No, or the settings come from the process in step S7. Unless otherwise specified, the print settings sent to Digital Multifunction Printer 1 will generally be the print settings that the user ultimately approved (final print settings).

[0091] On the other hand, in step S5, if there is an initial print setting stored in the storage unit 21 that has one or more predetermined setting items common to the print settings of the same application (if the determination in step S5 is Yes), in step S9, the control unit 20 displays a suggestion to change to the final print setting stored in the storage unit 21 on the display unit 24 (step S9).

[0092] Figure 7 shows an example of a proposed change to the final print settings for the image data displayed on the display unit 24 of the user terminal 2 shown in Figure 1.

[0093] In the example shown in Figure 7, the message "Previously, image data from the same application was printed with the same print settings including the same print items, but the print settings were changed multiple times during that process. Do you want to change the final print settings and print?" is displayed on the display unit 161. The user selects one of the three buttons displayed below the message: "Change and Print," "Print Without Changes," or "Cancel."

[0094] If the user wants to change the print settings of the image data and then issue a print command to the digital multifunction printer 1, they select the "Change and Print" button. If the user wants to print to the digital multifunction printer 1 without changing the print settings of the image data, they select the "Print without Change" button. On the other hand, if the user wants to cancel the print operation, they select the "Cancel" button.

[0095] Next, in step S10 of Figure 5, the control unit 20 determines whether or not to print the image data by changing to the final print settings stored in the storage unit 21 (step S10).

[0096] If the final print settings stored in the memory unit 21 are changed to print the image data (if the determination in step S10 is Yes), in step S11, the control unit 20 changes the print settings to the final print settings stored in the memory unit 21 in step S5, then has the digital multifunction printer 1 send the image data and the final print settings stored in the memory unit 21 to the communication unit 23 (step S11), and then terminates the process.

[0097] On the other hand, if the final print settings stored in the memory unit 21 are not changed and the image data is to be printed (if the determination in step S10 is No), in step S8, the control unit 20 causes the digital multifunction printer 1 to send the image data and print settings to the communication unit 23 (step S8), and then terminates the process.

[0098] If the determination in step S10 is No, the print settings sent to the digital multifunction printer 1 are the print settings that the user ultimately approved (the final print settings that have not been saved in the memory unit 21).

[0099] If the execution of printing the image data is canceled (i.e., the determination in step S10 is canceled), the control unit 20 returns to the determination in step S1.

[0100] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the printing process of the digital multifunction printer 1 shown in Figure 1.

[0101] In step S21 of Figure 8, the control unit 10 of the digital multifunction printer 1 determines whether or not it has received a print execution command for image data from the user terminal 2 (step S21).

[0102] If the control unit 10 has not received a print execution command for image data from the user terminal 2 (i.e., the determination in step S21 is No), the control unit 10 returns to the determination in step S21.

[0103] On the other hand, if the control unit 10 receives a print execution command for image data from the user terminal 2 (if the determination in step S21 is Yes), in step S22, the control unit 10 causes the image forming unit 12 to perform the image printing process based on the image data according to the print settings of the received print execution command (step S22), and then terminates the process.

[0104] In this way, when predetermined print setting saving conditions are met, the initial and final print settings are saved in the storage unit 21 in association with the application information. Subsequently, when a print command for image data is received, if the print settings are the same in predetermined settings as the initial print settings saved in association with the application information, the display unit 24 displays a suggestion as to whether or not to change the print settings of the image data to the saved final print settings and print. This makes it possible to realize an information processing device 2 that, regardless of the application used, reflects the expected output result from the image data print settings more appropriately than before when outputting to the digital multifunction printer 1.

[0105] [Embodiment 2] <Printing process of the image forming system 100 according to Embodiment 2 of this disclosure> Next, the printing process of the image forming system 100 according to Embodiment 2 of this disclosure will be described based on Figures 9 to 11.

[0106] The schematic configuration of the image forming system 100, digital multifunction printer 1, and user terminal 2 according to Embodiment 2 is the same as that of Embodiment 1 (Figures 1 to 3), so a description will be omitted.

[0107] The image forming system 100 according to Embodiment 1 is characterized in that the user terminal 2 determines whether or not predetermined print setting saving conditions have been met.

[0108] On the other hand, the image forming system 100 according to Embodiment 1 is characterized in that the digital multifunction printer 1 determines whether or not predetermined print setting saving conditions have been met.

[0109] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the process of transmitting image data and print settings from the user terminal 2 to the digital multifunction printer 1 according to Embodiment 2 of this disclosure.

[0110] In step S31 of Figure 9, the control unit 20 of the user terminal 2 determines whether or not it has received a command to print the image data (step S31).

[0111] If the print command for the image data is not accepted (the determination in step S31 is No), the control unit 20 returns to the determination in step S31.

[0112] On the other hand, if a print command for image data is received (if the determination in step S31 is Yes), in step S32, the control unit 20 displays the image data print settings screen on the display unit 24 and accepts the print settings (step S32).

[0113] Next, in step S33, the control unit 20 determines whether or not it has received an execution command to print the image data (step S33).

[0114] If the command to print the image data is not received (the determination in step S33 is No), the control unit 20 returns to the determination in step S33.

[0115] If the execution of printing the image data is canceled (if the determination in step S33 is canceled), the control unit 20 returns to the determination in step S31.

[0116] If a command to print image data is received (if the determination in step S33 is Yes), in step S34, the control unit 20 determines whether the proposed setting for changing the print settings of the image data is valid (step S34).

[0117] If the suggested setting for changing print settings is not valid (the determination in step S34 is No), in step S35, the control unit 20 causes the digital multifunction printer 1 to send the image data and the print settings for the image data to the communication unit 23 (step S35), and then terminates the process.

[0118] On the other hand, if the suggested setting for changing print settings is valid (if the determination in step S34 is Yes), in step S36, the control unit 20 sends information to the communication unit 23 that the suggested setting for changing print settings is valid, in addition to the image data and print settings for the image data (step S36), and then terminates the process.

[0119] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the printing process of the digital multifunction printer 1 according to Embodiment 2 of this disclosure.

[0120] In step S41 of Figure 10, the control unit 10 of the digital multifunction printer 1 determines whether or not it has received a print command for image data from the user terminal 2 (step S41).

[0121] If the control unit 10 has not received a print command for image data from the user terminal 2 (i.e., the determination in step S41 is No), the control unit 10 returns to the determination in step S41.

[0122] On the other hand, if a print command for image data is received from the user terminal 2 (if the determination in step S41 is Yes), in step S42, the control unit 10 determines whether the suggested setting for changing the print settings for image data is valid (step S42).

[0123] If the suggested setting for changing the print settings is not valid (if the determination in step S42 is No), in step S46, the control unit 10 causes the image forming unit 12 to perform the printing process according to the print settings (step S46).

[0124] On the other hand, if the suggested setting for changing print settings is valid (if the determination in step S42 is Yes), in step S43, the control unit 10 determines whether or not there is an initial print setting stored in the storage unit 13 that has one or more predetermined setting items common to the print settings of the same user terminal 2 / application (step S43).

[0125] If there are no initial print settings stored in the storage unit 13 that share one or more predetermined setting items in the print settings of the same user terminal 2 / application (if the determination in step S43 is No), then in step S44, the control unit 10 determines whether or not the predetermined print setting saving conditions have been met (step S44).

[0126] One example of a condition for saving print settings is when a specific print command for the same application is repeated two or more times within a short period of time (e.g., one minute) from the same user terminal 2.

[0127] In this case, specific print instructions could include, for example, print instructions that involve collation and / or double-sided printing, or print instructions that only change the orientation of the printout.

[0128] If the above print commands are issued repeatedly within a short period of time, it is highly likely that the same user changed the print settings and issued repeated print commands because the output differed from the expected result.

[0129] If the predetermined print setting saving conditions are not met (if the determination in step S44 is No), in step S46, the control unit 10 causes the image forming unit 12 to perform the print process according to the print settings (step S46), and then terminates the process.

[0130] On the other hand, if the predetermined print setting saving conditions are met (if the determination in step S44 is Yes), in step S45, the control unit 10 saves the initial print settings and final print settings in the storage unit 13, linked to the user terminal 2 / application information (step S45).

[0131] Subsequently, in step S46, the control unit 10 causes the image forming unit 12 to perform the printing process according to the print settings (step S46), and then terminates the process.

[0132] On the other hand, in step S43, if there is an initial print setting stored in the storage unit 13 that has one or more predetermined setting items common to the print settings of the same user terminal 2 / application (if the determination in step S43 is Yes), in step S47, the control unit 10 displays a suggestion to change to the final print setting stored in the storage unit 13 on the display unit 161 (step S47).

[0133] Figure 11 shows an example of a proposed change to the final print settings for image data displayed on the display unit 161 of the digital multifunction printer 1 according to Embodiment 2 of this disclosure.

[0134] In the example shown in Figure 11, the message "Previously, image data from the same user terminal using the same application was printed with the same print settings including the same print items, but the print settings were changed multiple times during that process. Do you want to change the final print settings and print?" is displayed on the display unit 161. The user selects one of the three buttons displayed below the message: "Change and Print," "Print Without Changes," or "Cancel."

[0135] Next, in step S48 of Figure 10, the control unit 10 determines whether or not to print the image data with the final print settings stored in the storage unit 13 (step S48).

[0136] If the final print settings stored in the memory unit 13 are changed to print the image data (if the determination in step S48 is Yes), in step S49, the control unit 10 changes the print settings to the final print settings stored in the memory unit 13 in step S45, then causes the image forming unit 12 to perform the print process (step S49), and then terminates the process.

[0137] On the other hand, if the image data is to be printed without changing the final print settings stored in the memory unit 13 (if the determination in step S48 is No), in step S46, the control unit 10 causes the image forming unit 12 to perform the printing process according to the print settings (step S46), and then terminates the process.

[0138] If the print execution is canceled (i.e., the determination in step S48 is canceled), the control unit 10 returns to the determination in step S41.

[0139] The printing process of the digital multifunction printer 1 according to Embodiment 2 of this disclosure is the same as that of Embodiment 1 (Figure 8), so its explanation will be omitted.

[0140] In this way, when predetermined print setting saving conditions are met, the initial and final print settings are saved in the storage unit 13 in association with the user terminal 2 / application information. Subsequently, when a print command for image data is received, if the print settings are the same in predetermined settings as the initial print settings saved in association with the application information, the display unit 161 displays a suggestion on whether or not to change the print settings of the image data to the saved final print settings and print. This makes it possible to realize a digital multifunction printer 1 that reflects and outputs the expected output results from the image data print settings more appropriately than before, regardless of the difference in the application used by the information processing device 2.

[0141] [Embodiment 3] Next, the process of transmitting image data and print settings from the user terminal 2 to the digital multifunction printer 1 according to Embodiment 3 of this disclosure will be described based on Figures 12 and 13. Figure 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the process of transmitting image data and print settings from the user terminal 2 to the digital multifunction printer 1 according to Embodiment 3 of this disclosure.

[0142] The general configuration of the image forming system 100, digital multifunction printer 1, and user terminal 2 according to Embodiment 3 is the same as that of Embodiment 1 (Figures 1 to 3), so a description will be omitted.

[0143] The image forming system 100 according to Embodiments 1 and 2 is characterized by determining whether predetermined print setting saving conditions have been met, and if the conditions have been met, saving the print settings and using them to suggest changes to the print settings.

[0144] On the other hand, the image forming system 100 according to Embodiment 3 is characterized by saving print settings for each application and allowing the user to decide whether or not to use them for suggesting changes to the print settings.

[0145] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the process of transmitting image data and print settings from the user terminal 2 to the digital multifunction printer 1 according to Embodiment 3 of this disclosure.

[0146] In step S41 of Figure 12, the control unit 20 of the user terminal 2 determines whether or not it has received a print command for image data (step S51).

[0147] If the print command for the image data is not accepted (the determination in step S51 is No), the control unit 20 returns to the determination in step S51.

[0148] On the other hand, if a print command for image data is received (if the determination in step S51 is Yes), in step S52, the print settings screen is displayed on the display unit 24 and the print settings are accepted (step S52).

[0149] Next, in step S53, the control unit 20 determines whether or not it has received an execution command to print the image data (step S53).

[0150] If the command to print the image data is not received (the determination in step S53 is No), the control unit 20 returns to the determination in step S53.

[0151] If the execution of printing the image data is canceled (if the determination in step S53 is canceled), the control unit 20 returns to the determination in step S51.

[0152] If a command to print image data is received (if the determination in step S53 is Yes), in step S54, the control unit 20 determines whether the proposed setting for changing the print settings of the image data is valid (step S54).

[0153] If the suggested setting for changing the print settings of the image data is not valid (the determination in step S54 is No), in step S55, the control unit 20 causes the digital multifunction printer 1 to send the image data and the print settings of the image data to the communication unit 23 (step S55), and then terminates the process.

[0154] On the other hand, if the suggested setting for changing the print settings of image data is valid (if the determination in step S54 is Yes), in step S56, the control unit 20 determines whether or not there is an initial print setting stored in the storage unit 21 that has one or more predetermined setting items in common with the print settings of the same application (step S56).

[0155] If there are no pre-defined initial print settings stored in the storage unit 21 that share one or more common settings for the same application's print settings (i.e., the determination in step S56 is No), then in step S57, the control unit 20 causes the digital multifunction printer 1 to transmit image data and the print settings for the image data to the communication unit 23 (step S57).

[0156] Next, in step S58, the control unit 20 displays a message on the display unit 24 asking the user whether or not to save the final print settings in order to suggest changes to the print settings for the image data, and makes a determination (step S58).

[0157] Figure 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a message displayed on the display unit 24 of the user terminal 2 according to Embodiment 3 of this disclosure, which inquires whether the final print settings of the printer drive have been saved.

[0158] In the example shown in Figure 13, the message "Do you want to save the final print settings for suggestions on changing print settings?" is displayed on the display unit 24. If the user wishes to save their final print settings, they should select the "Save" button below the message; otherwise, they should select the "Do not save" button.

[0159] If the final print settings should be saved in order to suggest changes to the print settings of the image data (if the determination in step S58 is Yes), in step S59, the control unit 20 saves the initial print settings and the final print settings in the storage unit 21 in association with the application information (step S59), and then terminates the process.

[0160] On the other hand, if the final print settings should not be saved in order to suggest changes to the print settings of the image data (i.e., if the determination in step S58 is No), the control unit 20 terminates the process.

[0161] In step S56, if there are initial print settings stored in the storage unit 21 that have one or more predetermined settings common to the print settings of the same application (if the determination in step S56 is Yes), in step S60, the control unit 20 displays a suggestion to change to the final print settings stored in the storage unit 21 on the display unit 24 (step S60).

[0162] In the following step S61, the control unit 20 determines whether or not to print the image data with the final print settings stored in the storage unit 21 (step S61).

[0163] If the final print settings stored in the memory unit 21 are changed to print the image data (if the determination in step S61 is Yes), in step S62, the control unit 20 changes the print settings to the final print settings stored in the memory unit 21 in step S59, then sends the image data and the final print settings stored in the memory unit 21 to the communication unit 23 (step S62), and then terminates the process.

[0164] On the other hand, if the final print settings stored in the memory unit 21 are not changed and the image data is to be printed (if the determination in step S61 is No), in step S57, the control unit 20 causes the digital multifunction printer 1 to send the image data and print settings to the communication unit 23 (step S57).

[0165] If the execution of printing the image data is canceled (i.e., the determination in step S61 is canceled), the control unit 20 returns to the determination in step S51.

[0166] The printing process of the digital multifunction printer 1 according to Embodiment 3 of this disclosure is the same as that of Embodiment 1 (Figure 8), so its explanation will be omitted.

[0167] In this way, when an application issues a print execution command for image data, and when the user issues a command to save the print settings, the initial and final print settings are saved in the storage unit 21 in association with the application's information. Therefore, regardless of the application used, the information processing device 2 can be realized to output the expected output results from the image data print settings to the digital multifunction printer 1 more appropriately than before.

[0168] [Embodiment 4] Next, based on Figure 14, the trial printing process of the digital multifunction printer 1 at the user terminal 2 according to Embodiment 4 of this disclosure will be described. Figure 14 is a flowchart showing an example of a trial print process for the digital multifunction printer 1 according to Embodiment 4 of this disclosure.

[0169] The general configuration of the image forming system 100, digital multifunction printer 1, and user terminal 2 according to Embodiment 4 is the same as that of Embodiment 1 (Figures 1 to 3), so a description will be omitted.

[0170] The image forming system 100 according to Embodiments 1 to 3 is characterized by determining whether or not to save the print settings of the image data when the digital multifunction printer 1 is ordered to print the image data, and then suggesting changes to the print settings based on the saved print settings when printing image data in the future.

[0171] On the other hand, the image forming system 100 according to Embodiment 4 is further characterized in that, when the digital multifunction printer 1 performs a test print of the image data, it decides whether or not to save the print settings of the image data, and then, when printing the image data in subsequent instances, it suggests changing the print settings based on the saved print settings.

[0172] Figure 14 is a flowchart showing an example of a trial print process for the digital multifunction printer 1 according to Embodiment 4 of this disclosure.

[0173] In step S71 of Figure 14, the control unit 20 of the user terminal 2 determines whether or not it has received a command to print a test image data (step S71). A test print is a function that prints using less toner than usual.

[0174] If the command to print a test image data is not accepted (the determination in step S71 is No), the control unit 20 returns to the determination in step S71.

[0175] On the other hand, if a trial print command for image data is received (if the determination in step S71 is Yes), in step S72, the control unit 20 displays the image data print settings screen on the display unit 24 and accepts the print settings (step S72).

[0176] Next, in step S73, the control unit 20 determines whether or not it has received an execution command to print the image data (step S73).

[0177] If the print execution command is not accepted (the determination in step S73 is No), the control unit 20 returns to the determination in step S73.

[0178] If the print execution is canceled (if the determination in step S73 is canceled), the control unit 20 returns to the determination in step S71.

[0179] If a print execution command is received (if the determination in step S73 is Yes), in step S74, the control unit 20 determines whether the proposed setting for changing the print settings of the image data is valid (step S74).

[0180] If the suggested setting for changing the print settings of the image data is not valid (if the determination in step S74 is No), in step S75, the control unit 20 sends the image data and the print settings of the image data to the communication unit 23 to the digital multifunction printer 1 to perform a test print (step S75), and then terminates the process.

[0181] On the other hand, if the suggested setting for changing the print settings of the image data is valid (if the determination in step S74 is Yes), in step S76, the control unit 20 causes the digital multifunction printer 1 to send the image data and the print settings of the image data to the communication unit 23 and perform a test print (step S76).

[0182] In the following step S77, the control unit 20 displays a message on the display unit 24 asking the user whether or not to save the final print settings in order to suggest changes to the print settings for the image data, and makes a determination (step S77).

[0183] If the final print settings should not be saved in order to suggest changes to the print settings of the image data (i.e., the determination in step S77 is No), the control unit 20 terminates the process.

[0184] On the other hand, if the final print settings should be saved in order to suggest changes to the print settings of the image data (if the determination in step S77 is Yes), in step S78, the control unit 20 saves the initial print settings and the final print settings in the storage unit 21 in association with the application information (step S78), and then terminates the process.

[0185] Furthermore, the process of transmitting image data and print settings from the user terminal 2 to the digital multifunction printer 1 in Embodiment 4 of this disclosure is the same as in Embodiment 1 (Figure 5), so the explanation will be omitted. Furthermore, the printing process of the digital multifunction printer 1 according to Embodiment 4 of this disclosure is the same as that of Embodiment 1 (Figure 8), so its explanation will be omitted.

[0186] In this way, when an application performs a test print of image data, the system queries whether or not to save the print settings of the image data. If the print settings should be saved, the system stores the initial and final print settings in the storage unit 21, linked to the application information. This allows the information processing device 2 to reduce toner consumption compared to conventional methods, and regardless of the application used, it can output the expected output results from the image data print settings to the digital multifunction printer 1 more appropriately than before.

[0187] [Embodiment 5] Next, the printing process of the image forming system 100 according to Embodiment 5 of this disclosure will be described based on Figure 15.

[0188] The general configuration of the image forming system 100, digital multifunction printer 1, and user terminal 2 according to Embodiment 5 is the same as that of Embodiment 1 (Figures 1 to 3), so a description will be omitted.

[0189] In Embodiment 1, the print setting saving condition in step S4 of Figure 5 was explained using an example where a predetermined print command for an image from the same application is repeated two or more times within a short period of time (e.g., 1 minute).

[0190] On the other hand, suppose that the same application's image print command is repeated three times in a short period of time, but there is no fourth print command. In this case, it can be assumed that the expected output result was not obtained with the first and second print settings, and that the expected output result was finally obtained with the third print setting.

[0191] Therefore, the image forming system 100 according to Embodiment 5 is characterized in that, even if predetermined print setting saving conditions are met, if a predetermined print instruction for an image of the same application is received within a predetermined waiting time (for example, within 3 minutes), the system does not save the print settings on the grounds that the expected output result was not obtained. However, if no predetermined print instruction for an image of the same application is received within the waiting time, the system saves the final print settings on the grounds that the expected output result was obtained.

[0192] Figure 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the process of transmitting image data and print settings from the user terminal 2 to the digital multifunction printer 1 according to Embodiment 5 of this disclosure.

[0193] In step S81 of Figure 15, the control unit 20 of the user terminal 2 determines whether or not it has received a print command for image data (step S81).

[0194] If the print command for the image data is not accepted (the determination in step S81 is No), the control unit 20 returns to the determination in step S81.

[0195] On the other hand, if a print command for image data is received (if the determination in step S81 is Yes), in step S82, the control unit 20 displays the image data print settings screen on the display unit 24 and accepts the print settings (step S82).

[0196] Next, in step S83, the control unit 20 determines whether or not it has received an execution command to print the image data (step S83).

[0197] If the command to print the image data is not received (the determination in step S83 is No), the control unit 20 returns to the determination in step S83.

[0198] If the execution of printing the image data is canceled (if the determination in step S83 is canceled), the control unit 20 returns to the determination in step S81.

[0199] If a command to print image data is received (if the determination in step S83 is Yes), in step S84, the control unit 20 determines whether the suggested setting for changing print settings is valid (step S84).

[0200] If the suggested setting for changing the print settings of the image data is not valid (the determination in step S84 is No), in step S85, the control unit 20 causes the digital multifunction printer 1 to send the image data and the print settings of the image data to the communication unit 23 (step S85), and then terminates the process.

[0201] On the other hand, if the suggested setting for changing the print settings of image data is valid (if the determination in step S84 is Yes), in step S86, the control unit 20 determines whether or not there is an initial print setting stored in the storage unit 21 that has one or more predetermined setting items in common with the print settings of the same application (step S86).

[0202] If there are no initial print settings stored in the storage unit 21 that share one or more predetermined setting items in the print settings of the same application (if the determination in step S86 is No), then in step S87, the control unit 20 determines whether or not the predetermined print setting saving conditions have been met (step S87).

[0203] If the predetermined print setting saving conditions are not met (the determination in step S87 is No), in step S88, the control unit 20 causes the digital multifunction printer 1 to transmit the image data and the print settings for the image data to the communication unit 23 (step S88), and then terminates the process.

[0204] On the other hand, if the predetermined print setting saving conditions are met (if the determination in step S87 is Yes), in step S89, the control unit 20 causes the digital multifunction printer 1 to transmit the image data and the print settings for the image data to the communication unit 23 (step S89).

[0205] In the following step S90, the control unit 20 causes the digital multifunction printer 1 to transmit image data and print settings for the image data to the communication unit 23, and then determines whether or not the print command for the image data has been received within a predetermined waiting time (for example, 3 minutes) (step S90).

[0206] If a print command for image data is received within a predetermined waiting time (for example, 3 minutes) (i.e., if the determination in step S90 is Yes), the control unit 20 returns to the determination in step S81.

[0207] On the other hand, if a print command for image data is not received within a predetermined waiting time (for example, 3 minutes) (if the determination in step S90 is No), in step S91, the control unit 20 saves the initial print settings and final print settings linked to the application information to the storage unit 21 (step S91), and then terminates the process.

[0208] On the other hand, in step S86, if there is an initial print setting stored in the storage unit 21 that has one or more predetermined setting items common to the print settings of the same application (if the determination in step S86 is Yes), in step S92, the control unit 20 displays a suggestion to change to the final print setting stored in the storage unit 21 on the display unit 24 (step S92).

[0209] In the following step S93, the control unit 20 determines whether or not to print the image data with the final print settings stored in the storage unit 21 (step S93).

[0210] If the final print settings stored in the memory unit 21 are changed to print the image data (if the determination in step S71 is Yes), in step S88, the control unit 20 changes the print settings to the final print settings stored in the memory unit 21 in step S91, then sends the image data and the final print settings stored in the memory unit 21 to the communication unit 23 (step S88), and then terminates the process.

[0211] On the other hand, if the final print settings stored in the memory unit 21 are not changed and the image data is to be printed (if the determination in step S93 is No), in step S88, the control unit 20 causes the digital multifunction printer 1 to send the image data and print settings to the communication unit 23 (step S88), and then terminates the process.

[0212] If the execution of printing the image data is canceled (i.e., the determination in step S93 is canceled), the control unit 20 returns to the determination in step S81.

[0213] The printing process of the digital multifunction printer 1 according to Embodiment 5 of this disclosure is the same as that of Embodiment 1 (Figure 8), so its explanation will be omitted.

[0214] In this way, when the same application's image data is repeatedly printed multiple times in a short period of time, the print settings related to the last received print command are saved as the final print settings in the storage unit 21. This enables the information processing device 2 to output the expected output results from the image data print settings to the digital multifunction printer 1 more appropriately than before, regardless of the application being used.

[0215] Preferred embodiments of this disclosure include combinations of any of the embodiments described above. In addition to the embodiments described above, various modifications of this disclosure are possible. These modifications should not be construed as being outside the scope of this disclosure. This disclosure should include the meaning of equivalents to the claims and all variations within that scope. [Explanation of symbols]

[0216] 1: Digital multifunction printer, 2: User terminal, 3: Network, 10,20: Control unit, 11: Image data acquisition unit, 12: Image forming unit, 13,21: Storage unit, 14,22: Image processing unit, 15,23: Communication unit, 16: Operation panel, 100: Image forming system, 100C: Conventional image forming system, 24,161: Display unit, 25,162: Operation unit

Claims

1. A storage unit that stores in a launchable manner the program of at least one application that creates or displays image data, A control unit that receives commands from the user, When the control unit receives a print command for the image data to an external image forming apparatus, a display unit displays a screen for setting the print settings for the image data. When the operation unit receives a print execution command for the image forming apparatus, a communication unit transmits the image data and the print settings. The system comprises a control unit that controls the storage unit, the operation unit, the display unit, and the communication unit, When the operation unit receives a print execution command for the image data from the application, the control unit determines whether predetermined print setting saving conditions are met, and if the print setting saving conditions are met, it stores the initial and final print settings of the image data in the storage unit, linked to the application information, and causes the image forming apparatus to transmit the image data and the final print settings of the image data to the communication unit. The information processing apparatus is characterized in that, when the operation unit receives a print command for the image data from the application, if the print settings of the image data are common in one or more predetermined setting items with the initial print settings stored in the storage unit in association with the application information, the display unit displays a suggestion on whether or not to change the initial print settings of the image data to the final print settings stored in the storage unit and print, and when the operation unit receives a command to change the print settings, the display unit transmits the image data and the final print settings stored in the storage unit to the communication unit.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the one or more setting items include at least one setting item from among aggregated printing settings and duplex printing settings.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit determines that the print setting save condition has been met when the operation unit receives a predetermined number of print commands for the same application for the same application within a predetermined time.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, when the print setting saving conditions are met, the control unit saves the print settings related to the last print command received among the print commands received within a predetermined waiting time linked to the application information as the final print settings in the storage unit.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit, when the operation unit receives a print command for the image data from the application and the operation unit receives a command to save the print settings related to the print command, saves the initial and final print settings in the storage unit in association with the information of the application, and causes the image forming apparatus to transmit the image data and the final print settings of the image data to the communication unit.

Images