Information processing device, information processing method, and control program

Abstract

The present invention provides an information processing device, an information processing method, and a control program that can improve user convenience. [Solution] The information processing device includes a first operation unit that receives an operation to start a predetermined process, a second operation unit that receives the operation and can change the display mode, and a control unit. The control unit causes a predetermined display to be shown on the second operation unit when the device state satisfies the start conditions for starting a predetermined process and does not satisfy the suppression conditions for suppressing the execution of the predetermined process.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an image processing apparatus including an operation device composed of a first operation unit and a second operation unit. In this image processing apparatus, the first operation unit includes a touch panel display and a home key which is a hardware key, and the second operation unit includes a power key and a power saving key which are hardware keys, and an LED lamp.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In an information processing apparatus, it is required to improve the convenience for the user.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a control program capable of improving the convenience for the user.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An information processing apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention includes a first operation unit that receives an operation to start a predetermined process, a second operation unit that receives an operation and can change a display mode, and a control unit. The control unit causes the second operation unit to display a predetermined display when the device state satisfies a start condition for starting the predetermined process and does not satisfy a suppression condition for suppressing the execution of the predetermined process.

[0007] An information processing method according to one aspect of the present invention involves a first operation unit receiving an operation to start a predetermined process, a second operation unit capable of changing the display mode receiving the operation, and if the device state satisfies the start conditions for starting the predetermined process and does not satisfy the suppression conditions for suppressing the execution of the predetermined process, a predetermined display is displayed on the second operation unit.

[0008] A control program relating to one aspect of the present invention is a control program for an information processing device having a first operation unit that accepts an operation to start a predetermined process, and a second operation unit that accepts the operation and can change the display mode, wherein the program causes the information processing device to display a predetermined display in the second operation unit when the device state satisfies the start conditions for starting a predetermined process and does not satisfy the suppression conditions for suppressing the execution of a predetermined process. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, the information processing device, information processing method, and control program can improve user convenience. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing an information processing device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a diagram illustrating the transport path inside the information processing device. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram illustrating the schematic configuration of an information processing device. [Figure 4] This figure shows the schematic configuration of the memory device and processing circuit. [Figure 5] This flowchart shows an example of how the configuration process works. [Figure 6] (A) and (B) are schematic diagrams showing the second display operating device, etc. [Figure 7] (A) and (B) are schematic diagrams showing the second display operating device, etc. [Figure 8] This flowchart shows an example of the operation of the media transport process. [Figure 9](A) and (B) are schematic diagrams showing a second display operation device or the like. [Figure 10] It is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the retransmission determination process. [Figure 11] It is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the display control process. [Figure 12] (A) and (B) are schematic diagrams for explaining other guiding displays. [Figure 13] (A) and (B) are schematic diagrams for explaining other guiding displays. [Figure 14] It is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of other processing circuits.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a control program according to one aspect of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, note that the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to those embodiments, and extends to the invention described in the claims and its equivalents.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an information processing apparatus configured as an image scanner.

[0013] The information processing apparatus 100 conveys, images, and discharges a medium that is a document. The medium is paper, cardboard, card, booklet, passport, or the like. The information processing apparatus 100 may be a facsimile machine, a copier, a printer multifunction peripheral (MFP), or the like.

[0014] In FIG. 1, arrow A1 indicates the medium conveyance direction, arrow A2 indicates the width direction orthogonal to the medium conveyance direction, and arrow A3 indicates the height direction orthogonal to the medium conveyance path. Hereinafter, upstream refers to the upstream in the medium conveyance direction A1, and downstream refers to the downstream in the medium conveyance direction A1. The width direction A2 is an example of a direction intersecting the medium conveyance direction.

[0015] The information processing apparatus 100 includes a lower housing 101, an upper housing 102, a mounting table 103, a discharge table 104, a first display operation device 105, a second display operation device 106, and the like.

[0016] The upper housing 102 is disposed at a position covering the upper surface of the information processing apparatus 100 and is engaged with the lower housing 101 by a hinge so as to be openable and closable during cleaning inside the information processing apparatus 100 or when handling media.

[0017] The mounting table 103 is engaged with the lower housing 101 and mounts the media to be fed and conveyed. The discharge table 104 is engaged with the lower housing 101 and mounts the discharged media. Note that the discharge table 104 may be engaged with the upper housing 102 by a hinge or the like.

[0018] The first display operation device 105 is an example of a first operation unit. The first display operation device 105 has an input device such as a mechanical button and an interface circuit that acquires signals from the input device, receives operations by the user, and outputs signals corresponding to the user's operations. The first display operation device 105 receives a start operation and an end operation of a predetermined process by the user. By using a mechanical button as the first display operation device 105, the user can easily perform a start operation of a predetermined process, and the information processing apparatus 100 can improve the convenience for the user. The predetermined process is a main process of the information processing apparatus 100 that is started according to an operation using the first display operation device 105 by the user, and for example, is reading of media. The user can easily perform a start operation of reading the media using the first display operation device 105, and the information processing apparatus 100 can improve the convenience for the user.

[0019] Furthermore, the first display operation device 105 has an output device such as an LED (Light-Emitting Diode) and an interface circuit for controlling the output device. The first display operation device 105 can change the display mode by turning the output device on or off or changing the brightness or color of the light emitted by the output device, in accordance with instructions from the processing circuit described later. Because the first display operation device 105 can change the display mode, the user can recognize the status of the information processing device 100 at the position where they perform the start and end operations of a predetermined process, and the information processing device 100 can improve user convenience.

[0020] The second display and operation device 106 is an example of a second operation unit. The second display and operation device 106 has an input device such as a touch panel and an interface circuit that acquires signals from the input device, accepts operations by the user and outputs signals corresponding to the user's operations. The second display and operation device 106 accepts setting operations by the user. By using a touch panel as the second display and operation device 106, the user can easily perform a variety of setting operations, and the information processing device 100 can improve user convenience.

[0021] Furthermore, the second display operation device 106 has an output device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (electro-luminescence) display, and an interface circuit that outputs image data to the output device, and displays the image data on the display. The second display operation device 106 can change the display mode by changing the information displayed on the display according to instructions from the processing circuit. Because the second display operation device 106 can change the display mode, the user can recognize the status of the information processing device 100 at the position where setting operations are performed, and the information processing device 100 can improve user convenience.

[0022] In addition, in the first display operation device 105 and / or the second display operation device 106, the display device and the operation device may be provided separately. Furthermore, the first display operation device 105 may have a touch panel and a display, etc., instead of mechanical buttons and LEDs. The second display operation device 106 may have mechanical buttons and LEDs, etc., instead of a touch panel and a display.

[0023] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the transport path inside the information processing device.

[0024] The transport path inside the information processing device 100 includes a first medium sensor 111, a second medium sensor 112, a feeding roller 113, a separation roller 114, a third medium sensor 115, an ultrasonic sensor 116, a first transport roller 117, a second transport roller 118, a fourth medium sensor 119, an imaging device 120, a first discharge roller 121, and a second discharge roller 122, among others.

[0025] Note that the number of each of the feeding roller 113, separating roller 114, first conveying roller 117, second conveying roller 118, first discharge roller 121 and / or second discharge roller 122 is not limited to one, but may be multiple. In that case, the multiple feeding rollers 113, separating roller 114, first conveying roller 117, second conveying roller 118, first discharge roller 121 and / or second discharge roller 122 are arranged side by side with a gap in the width direction A2.

[0026] The upper surface of the lower housing 101 forms the lower guide 101a of the medium transport path, and the lower surface of the upper housing 102 forms the upper guide 102a of the medium transport path. As shown in Figure 2, the medium transport path has a so-called straight path mechanism in which the vertical positional relationship between the front and back surfaces of the medium does not change between the state before transport when the medium is placed on the mounting table 103 and the state after discharge when the medium is placed on the discharge table 104.

[0027] The first medium sensor 111 is positioned on the upper guide 102a, that is, above the medium transport path, and upstream of the feed roller 113 and the separation roller 114. The first medium sensor 111 has a plurality of infrared proximity sensors arranged side by side with spacing in the width direction A2. Each infrared proximity sensor includes a light emitter and a light receiver, and measures the distance to an object located opposite it from the time difference between the irradiation and reflection of infrared light. The light emitter irradiates light (infrared light) toward the mounting surface of the mounting table 103 or the medium placed on the mounting table 103 in a direction substantially parallel to the medium transport direction A1. The light receiver receives the light irradiated by the light emitter and reflected by the mounting surface of the mounting table 103 or the medium placed on the mounting table 103, and generates and outputs a first medium signal, which is an electrical signal corresponding to the time from when the light emitter irradiates light until the light receiver receives light.

[0028] The second medium sensor 112 is positioned upstream of the feeding roller 113 and the separation roller 114. The second medium sensor 112 has a contact detection sensor and detects whether or not a medium is placed on the mounting table 103. The second medium sensor 112 generates and outputs a second medium signal whose signal value changes depending on whether or not a medium is placed on the mounting table 103. Note that the second medium sensor 112 is not limited to a contact detection sensor, and any other sensor capable of detecting the presence or absence of a medium, such as a light detection sensor, may be used as the second medium sensor 112.

[0029] The feeding roller 113 and the separating roller 114 are examples of a feeding unit and a separating unit. The feeding roller 113 is provided on the lower housing 101 and separates and feeds the medium placed on the mounting table 103 from the bottom up. The separating roller 114 is a so-called brake roller or retard roller and is positioned on the upper housing 102 opposite to the feeding roller 113, separating the medium placed on the mounting table 103. The separating roller 114 is provided so as to be rotatable or stoppable in the opposite direction A5 of the medium feeding direction. Note that a separating pad may be used instead of the separating roller 114.

[0030] The third medium sensor 115 is positioned downstream of the nip portions of the feed roller 113 and the separation roller 114, and upstream of the first transport roller 117 and the second transport roller 118, and detects the leading and trailing ends of the medium transported to that position. The third medium sensor 115 includes a light emitter and a light receiver provided on one side of the medium transport path, and a light guide member provided opposite the light emitter and light receiver across the medium transport path. The light guide member is a light guide tube such as a U-shaped prism. The light emitter is an LED or the like, which emits light toward the transport path. On the other hand, the light receiver is a photodiode or the like, which receives the light emitted by the light emitter and guided by the light guide member. When the medium is located opposite the third medium sensor 115, the light emitted from the light emitter is blocked by the medium, so the light receiver does not detect the light emitted from the light emitter. The light receiver generates and outputs a third medium signal whose signal value changes depending on whether a medium is present or absent at the position of the third medium sensor 115, based on the intensity of the received light.

[0031] Furthermore, a reflective member such as a mirror may be used instead of the light guide member. Also, the light emitter and light receiver may be positioned opposite each other across the transport path. In addition, the third medium sensor 115 may detect the presence of the medium by using a contact detection sensor or the like that which supplies a predetermined current when the medium is in contact or when the medium is not in contact.

[0032] The ultrasonic sensor 116 is positioned downstream of the feeding roller 113 and the separation roller 114, and downstream of the first transport roller 117 and the second transport roller 118. The ultrasonic sensor 116 includes an ultrasonic transmitter 116a and an ultrasonic receiver 116b. The ultrasonic transmitter 116a and the ultrasonic receiver 116b are positioned near the transport path of the medium, facing each other across the transport path. The ultrasonic transmitter 116a emits ultrasonic waves. On the other hand, the ultrasonic receiver 116b receives ultrasonic waves emitted by the ultrasonic transmitter 116a and passing through the medium, and generates and outputs an ultrasonic signal, which is an electrical signal corresponding to the received ultrasonic waves.

[0033] The first transport roller 117 and the second transport roller 118 are examples of transport units. The first transport roller 117 and the second transport roller 118 are arranged facing each other downstream of the feeding roller 113 and the separation roller 114 in the medium transport direction A1. The first transport roller 117 and the second transport roller 118 transport the medium fed by the feeding roller 113 and the separation roller 114 to the imaging device 120.

[0034] The fourth medium sensor 119 is positioned downstream of the first transport roller 117 and the second transport roller 118 and upstream of the imaging device 120, and detects the leading and trailing ends of the medium transported to that position. The fourth medium sensor 119 includes a light emitter and a light receiver provided on one side of the medium transport path, and a light guide member provided opposite the light emitter and light receiver across the medium transport path. The light guide member is a light guide tube such as a U-shaped prism. The light emitter is an LED or the like, which emits light toward the transport path. On the other hand, the light receiver is a photodiode or the like, which receives the light emitted by the light emitter and guided by the light guide member. When the medium is located opposite the fourth medium sensor 119, the light emitted from the light emitter is blocked by the medium, so the light receiver does not detect the light emitted from the light emitter. The light receiver generates and outputs a fourth medium signal whose signal value changes depending on whether a medium is present or absent at the position of the fourth medium sensor 119, based on the intensity of the received light.

[0035] Furthermore, a reflective member such as a mirror may be used instead of the light guide member. Also, the light emitter and light receiver may be positioned opposite each other across the transport path. In addition, the fourth medium sensor 119 may detect the presence of the medium by using a contact detection sensor or the like that which supplies a predetermined current when the medium is in contact or when the medium is not in contact.

[0036] The imaging device 120 images the medium transported by the first transport roller 117 and the second transport roller 118. The imaging device 120 includes a first imaging device 120a and a second imaging device 120b, which are arranged opposite each other across the medium transport path.

[0037] The first imaging device 120a has an imaging sensor using a 1:1 optical system type CIS (Contact Image Sensor) with CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensors arranged linearly in the main scanning direction. The first imaging device 120a also has a lens that forms an image on the image sensor and an A / D converter that amplifies the electrical signal output from the image sensor and performs analog-to-digital (A / D) conversion. The first imaging device 120a captures the surface of the transported medium, sequentially generates input images, and outputs them.

[0038] Similarly, the second imaging device 120b has an imaging sensor with a CIS of the 1:1 optical system type, which has CMOS image sensors arranged linearly in the main scanning direction. The second imaging device 120b also has a lens that forms an image on the image sensor and an A / D converter that amplifies the electrical signal output from the image sensor and performs analog-to-digital (A / D) conversion. The second imaging device 120b sequentially generates and outputs input images by imaging the back surface of the transported medium.

[0039] Furthermore, the imaging device 120 monitors whether a hardware malfunction has occurred in the imaging device 120, and if a hardware malfunction has occurred in the imaging device 120, it outputs an abnormality signal to the processing circuit. The information processing device 100 may also have only one of the first imaging device 120a and the second imaging device 120b, and read only one side of the medium. Additionally, a line sensor using a CIS (Cell-in-Side) optical system with a CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) image sensor may be used as the imaging sensor. Alternatively, a line sensor using a reduction optical system with a CMOS or CCD image sensor may be used as the imaging sensor.

[0040] The first discharge roller 121 and the second discharge roller 122 are examples of a discharge section. The first discharge roller 121 and the second discharge roller 122 are arranged facing each other downstream of the imaging device 120. The first discharge roller 121 and the second discharge roller 122 are transported by the first transport roller 117 and the second transport roller 118, and the medium imaged by the imaging device 120 is discharged to the discharge table 104.

[0041] The media placed on the mounting table 103 is transported between the lower guide 101a and the upper guide 102a toward the media transport direction A1 by the feeding roller 113 rotating in the direction of arrow A4 in Figure 2, i.e., the media feeding direction. The separation roller 114 rotates or stops in the direction of arrow A5, i.e., the opposite direction to the media feeding direction, when media is being fed. Due to the action of the feeding roller 113 and the separation roller 114, when multiple media are placed on the mounting table 103, only the media that are in contact with the feeding roller 113 are separated. This restricts the transport of media other than the separated media (preventing double feeding).

[0042] The medium is fed between the first transport roller 117 and the second transport roller 118, guided by the lower guide 101a and the upper guide 102a. The medium is then fed between the first imaging device 120a and the second imaging device 120b as the first transport roller 117 and the second transport roller 118 rotate in the directions of arrows A6 and A7, respectively. The medium read by the imaging device 120 is then discharged onto the discharge platform 104 as the first discharge roller 121 and the second discharge roller 122 rotate in the directions of arrows A8 and A9, respectively.

[0043] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of an information processing device.

[0044] In addition to the configuration described above, the information processing device 100 further includes a drive device 131, an interface device 132, a communication device 133, a storage device 140, and a processing circuit 150, etc.

[0045] The drive unit 131 is an example of a drive unit. The drive unit 131 includes one or more motors. The drive unit 131 generates driving force to rotate the feed roller 113, the separation roller 114, the first transport roller 117, the second transport roller 118, the first discharge roller 121, and the second discharge roller 122 in response to a control signal from the processing circuit 150. The drive unit 131 is, for example, a DC motor. The drive unit 131 may also be a stepping motor. The second transport roller 118 and / or the second discharge roller 122 may be driven rollers that rotate in accordance with the first transport roller 117 and the first discharge roller 121, respectively. Alternatively, the first transport roller 117 and / or the first discharge roller 121 may be driven rollers that rotate in accordance with the second transport roller 118 and the second discharge roller 122, respectively. Furthermore, the drive unit 131 monitors whether or not a hardware malfunction has occurred in the drive unit 131, and if a hardware malfunction has occurred in the drive unit 131, it outputs an abnormality signal to the processing circuit 150.

[0046] The interface device 132 is an example of a communication unit. The interface device 132 has an interface circuit similar to a serial bus such as USB, and electrically connects to an external device (e.g., a personal computer, a portable information terminal, etc.) to send and receive input images and various types of information. The interface device 132 also monitors whether it is connected to the external device via a wired cable. That is, the interface device 132 monitors whether the wired cable is inserted into the information processing device 100 and the external device, or whether it has been removed from the information processing device 100 or the external device. If the interface device 132 is connected to the external device via a wired cable, the interface device 132 determines that it is in a state where it can physically communicate with the external device. On the other hand, if the interface device 132 is not connected to the external device via a wired cable, the interface device 132 determines that it is not in a state where it can physically communicate with the external device. The interface device 132 transmits a status signal to the processing circuit 150 indicating whether or not the interface device 132 is in a state where it can physically communicate with an external device.

[0047] The communication device 133 is an example of a communication unit. The communication device 133 has an antenna for transmitting and receiving wireless signals and a wireless communication interface circuit for transmitting and receiving signals through a wireless communication line according to a predetermined communication protocol. The predetermined communication protocol is, for example, a wireless LAN (Local Area Network). The communication device 133 electrically connects to an external device (for example, a personal computer, a mobile information terminal, a server located on a cloud network, etc.) to transmit and receive input images and various types of information. The communication device 133 also monitors whether wireless communication with the access point is established or disconnected. If wireless communication with the access point is established, the communication device 133 determines that it is physically able to communicate with the network. On the other hand, if wireless communication with the access point is disconnected, the communication device 133 determines that it is not physically able to communicate with the network. The communication device 133 transmits a status signal to the processing circuit 150 indicating whether or not it is physically able to communicate with the network.

[0048] The communication device 133 may have a wired communication interface circuit for sending and receiving signals via a wired communication line in accordance with a communication protocol such as a wired LAN. In that case, the communication device 133 monitors whether the communication device 133 is link up or link down. That is, the communication device 133 monitors whether the wired cable is inserted into the information processing device 100 and a relay device such as a switching hub or repeater hub, or whether it has been disconnected from the information processing device 100 or the relay device. If the communication device 133 is link up, the communication device 133 determines that it is physically able to communicate with the network. On the other hand, if the communication device 133 is link down, the communication device 133 determines that it is not physically able to communicate with the network. The communication device 133 transmits a status signal to the processing circuit 150 indicating whether or not the communication device 133 is physically able to communicate with the network.

[0049] The storage device 140 includes memory devices such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory), fixed disk devices such as hard disks, or portable storage devices such as flexible disks and optical disks. The storage device 140 also stores computer programs, databases, tables, etc., used for various processes of the information processing device 100. Computer programs may be installed into the storage device 140 from a computer-readable portable recording medium using a known setup program. Examples of portable recording media include CD-ROMs (compact disc read-only memory) and DVD-ROMs (digital versatile disc read-only memory). Furthermore, computer programs may be distributed from a server or the like and installed into the storage device 140.

[0050] The processing circuit 150 operates based on a program pre-stored in the memory device 140. The processing circuit is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). A DSP (digital signal processor), LSI (large scale integration), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), etc., may be used as the processing circuit 150.

[0051] The processing circuit 150 is connected to the first display operation device 105, the second display operation device 106, the first medium sensor 111, the second medium sensor 112, the third medium sensor 115, the ultrasonic sensor 116, the fourth medium sensor 119, the imaging device 120, the drive device 131, the interface device 132, the communication device 133, and the storage device 140, and controls each of these parts. Based on the medium signals acquired from each medium sensor, the processing circuit 150 performs drive control of the drive device 131, imaging control of the imaging device 120, etc. The processing circuit 150 acquires the input image from the imaging device 120 and transmits it to the information processing device via the interface device 132 or the communication device 133.

[0052] Figure 4 shows a schematic configuration of the memory device and processing circuit.

[0053] As shown in Figure 4, the storage device 140 stores control programs 141 and setting programs 142, etc. Each of these programs is a functional module implemented by software running on the processor. The processing circuit 150 reads each program stored in the storage device 140 and operates according to each program it has read. In this way, the processing circuit 150 functions as a control unit 151 and a setting unit 152.

[0054] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the configuration process for an information processing device.

[0055] The following describes an example of the operation of the information processing device 100's configuration process, referring to the flowchart shown in Figure 5. The operation flow described below is primarily executed by the processing circuit 150 in cooperation with each element of the information processing device 100, based on a program pre-stored in the memory device 140.

[0056] First, the control unit 151 waits until a predetermined instruction regarding the settings of the information processing device 100 is input by the user using the second display operation device 106, and until an instruction signal corresponding to the input instruction is received from the second display operation device 106 (step S101).

[0057] Next, the control unit 151 determines whether the received instruction signal indicates a home screen display instruction to instruct the display of the home screen (step S102). The second display operation device 106 outputs an instruction signal indicating a home screen display instruction when the home screen selection button is pressed on the settings screen, management screen, or history screen, etc., which will be described later.

[0058] If the instruction signal indicates a home screen display instruction, the control unit 151 generates home screen display data for displaying the home screen and outputs it to the second display operation device 106, causing the home screen to be displayed on the second display operation device 106 (step S103), and then returns to step S101.

[0059] Figure 6(A) is a schematic diagram showing the second display control device and the first display control device when the home screen is displayed.

[0060] The home screen 600 is the initial screen displayed when the information processing device 100 is started up. As shown in Figure 6(A), the home screen 600 includes a designated object 601, a management screen selection button 602, a history screen selection button 603, and a guidance display object 604, etc. The designated object 601 is an object for the user to specify a profile. The user can specify or set any of the profiles included in the designated object 601. When the user specifies any of the profiles included in the designated object 601, the control unit 151 sets the specified profile in the storage device 140. Also, when the user instructs the control unit 151 to set any of the profiles included in the designated object 601, the control unit 151 displays a setting screen on the second display operation device 106. The management screen selection button 602 is a button for displaying the management screen on the second display operation device 106. The history screen selection button 603 is a button for displaying the history screen on the second display operation device 106. The guidance display object 604 is an object for displaying guidance information that directs the user's gaze to the first display operation device 105.

[0061] The first display operating device 105 includes an operating section 105a and a display section 105b. The operating section 105a is a mechanical button, and the display section 105b is an LED. In the example shown in Figure 6(A), the operating section 105a and the display section 105b are provided separately. The operating section 105a and the display section 105b may be provided integrally.

[0062] On the other hand, if the instruction signal does not indicate a home screen display instruction, the control unit 151 determines whether the instruction signal indicates a settings screen display instruction to display the settings screen (step S104). The second display operation device 106 outputs an instruction signal indicating a settings screen display instruction when the user instructs the user to set any of the profiles included in the designated object 601 on the home screen 600. For example, the second display operation device 106 determines that the user has instructed the user to set the selected profile when the selected profile is touched again or when the profile is long-pressed.

[0063] If the instruction signal indicates an instruction to display the setting screen, the control unit 151 generates setting screen display data for displaying the setting screen and outputs it to the second display operation device 106, causing the setting screen to be displayed on the second display operation device 106 (step S105), and then returns to step S101.

[0064] Figure 6(B) is a schematic diagram showing the second display control device and the first display control device when the settings screen is displayed.

[0065] The settings screen 610 is a screen for users to configure each setting item included in each profile. A profile is a setting related to imaging or image processing that can be specified by the user according to the purpose of the input image or the type of medium being imaged. A profile includes setting values ​​for multiple setting items related to imaging or image processing. Setting items related to imaging processing include color, medium size, resolution, etc. Setting items related to image processing include orientation correction, edge correction, OCR (Optical Character Recognition), destination of input image, etc. As shown in Figure 6(B), the settings screen 610 includes a designation object 611, a setting button 612, a home screen selection button 613, and a guidance display object 614, etc. The designation object 611 is an object for users to specify setting values ​​for multiple setting items included in each profile. The setting button 612 is a button for setting the setting value specified in the designation object 611 to the information processing device 100. The home screen selection button 613 is a button for displaying the home screen 600 on the second display operation device 106. Directional sign object 614 is the same object as directional sign object 604.

[0066] On the other hand, if the instruction signal does not indicate a setting screen display instruction, the control unit 151 determines whether the instruction signal indicates a profile setting instruction for setting a profile (step S106). The second display operation device 106 outputs an instruction signal indicating a profile setting instruction when the setting button 612 is pressed on the setting screen 610. If the instruction signal indicates a profile setting instruction, the instruction signal includes the setting value for each setting item specified by the designated object 611.

[0067] When the instruction signal indicates a profile setting instruction, the setting unit 152 sets the profile by storing the setting values ​​for each setting item included in the instruction signal in the storage device 140 (step S107), and then returns to step S101.

[0068] On the other hand, if the instruction signal does not indicate a profile setting instruction, the control unit 151 determines whether the instruction signal indicates an instruction to display the management screen (step S108). The second display operation device 106 outputs an instruction signal indicating an instruction to display the management screen when the management screen selection button 602 is pressed on the home screen 600.

[0069] When the instruction signal indicates an instruction to display the management screen, the control unit 151 generates management screen display data for displaying the management screen and outputs it to the second display operation device 106, causing the management screen to be displayed on the second display operation device 106 (step S109), and then returns to step S101.

[0070] Figure 7(A) is a schematic diagram showing the second display control device and the first display control device with the management screen displayed.

[0071] The management screen 700 is a screen for users to set management information. The management information includes device settings and network settings for the information processing device 100, and includes the device name, IP address, time, etc. As shown in Figure 7(A), the management screen 700 includes a designation object 701, a setting button 702, a home screen selection button 703, and a guidance display object 704. The designation object 701 is an object for specifying management information. The setting button 612 is a button for setting the management information specified by the designation object 611 to the information processing device 100. The home screen selection button 703 and the guidance display object 704 are objects similar to the home screen selection button 613 and the guidance display object 604, respectively.

[0072] On the other hand, if the instruction signal does not indicate an instruction to display the management screen, the control unit 151 determines whether the instruction signal indicates an instruction to set management information (step S110). The second display operation device 106 outputs an instruction signal indicating an instruction to set management information when the setting button 702 is pressed on the management screen 700. If the instruction signal indicates an instruction to set management information, the instruction signal includes the management information specified by the designated object 701.

[0073] If the instruction signal indicates an instruction to set management information, the setting unit 152 sets the management information contained in the instruction signal in each device such as the storage device 140, the communication device 133, and the time measuring device (step S111), and returns the process to step S101.

[0074] On the other hand, if the instruction signal does not indicate a management information setting instruction, the control unit 151 determines whether the instruction signal indicates a history screen display instruction to instruct the display of the history screen (step S112). The second display operation device 106 outputs an instruction signal indicating a history screen display instruction when the history screen selection button 603 is pressed on the home screen 600.

[0075] When the instruction signal indicates an instruction to display the history screen, the control unit 151 generates history screen display data for displaying the history screen and outputs it to the second display operation device 106, causing the history screen to be displayed on the second display operation device 106 (step S113), and then returns to step S101.

[0076] Figure 7(B) is a schematic diagram showing the second display operation device and the first display operation device when the history screen is displayed.

[0077] The history screen 710 is a screen for notifying the user of the history of a predetermined process. The history is the history of predetermined processes executed by the information processing device 100, and includes the time, processing result (success, abnormal, etc.), etc. The history may also include data (input image) acquired in the predetermined process. As shown in Figure 7(B), the history screen 710 includes a history object 711, a home screen selection button 712, and a guidance display object 713, etc. The history object 711 is an object on which the history is displayed. The home screen selection button 712 and the guidance display object 713 are objects similar to the home screen selection button 613 and the guidance display object 604, respectively.

[0078] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the media transport process in an information processing device.

[0079] The following describes an example of the operation of the media transport process of the information processing device 100, referring to the flowchart shown in Figure 8. The operation flow described below is executed primarily by the processing circuit 150 in cooperation with each element of the information processing device 100, based on a program pre-stored in the storage device 140.

[0080] First, the control unit 151 waits until the user inputs an instruction to read the medium using the first display operation device 105 and receives an operation signal from the first display operation device 105 instructing the reading of the medium (step S201).

[0081] Next, the control unit 151 acquires a second medium signal from the second medium sensor 112 and determines whether or not a medium is placed on the mounting table 103 based on the acquired second medium signal (step S202). If no medium is placed on the mounting table 103, the control unit 151 terminates the medium reading process.

[0082] On the other hand, when a medium is placed on the mounting table 103, the control unit 151 controls the drive unit 131 to rotate each roller and transport the medium (step S203). The control unit 151 sets the rotation speed of the drive unit 131, etc., so that an input image corresponding to the profile stored (set) in the storage device 140 is generated. The control unit 151 rotates the drive unit 131 so that the feeding roller 113, the separating roller 114, the first transport roller 117, the second transport roller 118, the first discharge roller 121 and / or the second discharge roller 122 are rotated in the directions of arrows A4 to A9 in Figure 2.

[0083] Next, the control unit 151 determines whether the leading edge of the medium has passed through the separation section (step S204). The control unit 151 periodically acquires a third medium signal from the third medium sensor 115 and determines whether or not a medium is present at the position of the third medium sensor 115 based on the acquired third medium signal. When the signal value of the third medium signal changes from a value indicating the absence of medium to a value indicating the presence of medium, the control unit 151 determines that the leading edge of the medium has passed through the position of the third medium sensor 115 and that the leading edge of the medium has passed through the separation section.

[0084] If the leading edge of the medium has not yet passed through the separation section, the control unit 151 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of medium feeding (step S205). The predetermined time is set in advance to the time at which it can be considered that a transport abnormality such as a medium jam (paper jam) has occurred and the medium is not being fed correctly. If the predetermined time has not yet elapsed since the start of medium feeding, the control unit 151 returns to step S204 and repeats the process from steps S204 to S205.

[0085] On the other hand, if a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of medium feeding, the control unit 151 determines that a conveying abnormality such as a medium jam has occurred and controls the drive unit 131 to stop each roller (step S206). The control unit 151 stops the drive unit 131 and stops the feeding roller 113, the separation roller 114, the first conveying roller 117, the second conveying roller 118, the first discharge roller 121 and / or the second discharge roller 122.

[0086] Next, the control unit 151 generates error screen display data for displaying an error screen and outputs it to the second display operation device 106, causing the error screen to be displayed on the second display operation device 106 (step S207), and then the media reading process ends.

[0087] Figure 9(A) is a schematic diagram showing the second display control device and the first display control device when an error screen is displayed.

[0088] The error screen 900 is a screen for notifying the user of a media transport error. As shown in Figure 9(A), the error screen 900 includes an error object 901, an exit button 902, and a guidance display object 903, etc. The error object 901 is an object that displays that a media transport error has occurred. The error object 901 may also include the type of media transport error (jam, double feed, etc.). When the exit button 902 is pressed, the error screen 900 is closed and the home screen 600 is displayed. The guidance display object 903 is the same object as the guidance display object 604. On the error screen 900, the guidance display object 903 is displayed in a predetermined color (for example, yellow) to indicate that an error has occurred.

[0089] Furthermore, if a media transport abnormality occurs, the control unit 151 changes the display color of the display unit 105b of the first display operation device 105 to a different color (e.g., yellow) than the display color (e.g., white) used when no media transport abnormality occurs. This allows the user to accurately recognize that a media transport abnormality has occurred, and the information processing device 100 can improve user convenience.

[0090] On the other hand, in step S204, if the leading edge of the medium passes through the separation section, the control unit 151 waits until the leading edge of the medium passes through the transport section (step S208). The control unit 151 periodically acquires a fourth medium signal from the fourth medium sensor 119 and determines whether or not a medium is present at the position of the fourth medium sensor 119 based on the acquired fourth medium signal. When the signal value of the fourth medium signal changes from a value indicating that no medium is present to a value indicating that medium is present, the control unit 151 determines that the leading edge of the medium has passed through the position of the fourth medium sensor 119 and that the leading edge of the medium has passed through the transport section.

[0091] Next, the control unit 151 controls the drive unit 131 to stop the feed roller 113 (step S209). As a result, the medium is then transported by the first transport roller 117 and the second transport roller 118, and the feed roller 113 is carried around by the transported medium. By stopping the feed roller 113, the control unit 151 can suppress the medium from being pushed by the feed roller 113, causing it to bend between the separation unit and the transport unit, and preventing the medium from jamming.

[0092] Next, the control unit 151 causes the imaging device 120 to image the medium being transported and acquire an input image. The control unit 151 sets the imaging timing, imaging range, etc. of the imaging device 120 so that an input image corresponding to the profile stored (set) in the storage device 140 is generated. The control unit 151 outputs the acquired input image by transmitting it to a destination stored (set) in the storage device 140 via the interface device 132 or the communication device 133 (step S210).

[0093] Next, the control unit 151 analyzes the acquired input image and determines whether or not the input image contains any abnormalities in the medium. The control unit 151 stores the determination result in the storage device 140 (step S211).

[0094] For example, the control unit 151 determines whether the input image contains any abnormalities in the medium, such as folds or defects in the medium. The control unit 151 calculates the absolute difference in tone values ​​between the pixels adjacent to each pixel in the input image, both horizontally and vertically (hereinafter referred to as the adjacent difference value), and extracts that pixel as an edge pixel if the adjacent difference value exceeds the tone threshold. The tone value is either a luminance value or a color value (R value, G value, or B value). The tone threshold can be set, for example, to a difference in tone values ​​that a person can visually distinguish as a difference in luminance on an image (e.g., 20). The control unit 151 may also calculate the adjacent difference value as the absolute difference in tone values ​​between two pixels that are a predetermined distance apart from each pixel in the input image. Alternatively, the control unit 151 may extract edge pixels by comparing the tone value of each pixel in the input image with a threshold. For example, the control unit 151 designates a specific pixel as an edge pixel if its grayscale value is below a threshold, and the grayscale values ​​of pixels adjacent to that specific pixel or pixels located at a predetermined distance from that specific pixel are above the threshold. The control unit 151 then generates an edge image in which pixels corresponding to the extracted edge pixels are designated as valid pixels, and pixels that do not correspond to edge pixels are designated as invalid pixels.

[0095] Next, the control unit 151 detects multiple straight lines from the generated edge image using the Hough transform. The control unit 151 may also detect straight lines using the least squares method. Next, the control unit 151 extracts all combinations of two horizontal lines and two vertical lines for all extracted straight lines. The control unit 151 detects the rectangle candidate with the largest area among the rectangle candidates formed from each extracted combination as the circumscribing rectangle of the medium. The control unit 151 also groups mutually adjacent edge pixels in the edge image by labeling, and detects the region enclosed by the edge pixels in the group with the largest area among the groups as the medium region. The control unit 151 calculates a subtraction value by subtracting the area (number of pixels) of the medium region from the area (number of pixels) of the circumscribing rectangle. If the calculated subtraction value is greater than or equal to a predetermined area threshold, the control unit 151 determines that the input image contains a fold or missing part of the medium; if the subtraction value is less than the area threshold, it determines that the input image does not contain a fold or missing part of the medium.

[0096] The control unit 151 may also determine whether the input image contains cumulative skew of the medium as a medium abnormality. Cumulative skew is a diagonal movement in which the tilt angle of the medium changes during transport, i.e., a diagonal movement in which the medium rotates. The control unit 151 calculates the angles formed by the horizontal lines corresponding to the top and bottom sides of the circumscribing rectangle of the medium and the horizontal lines corresponding to the grid lines inside the circumscribing rectangle. The control unit 151 also calculates the angles formed by the vertical lines corresponding to the left and right sides of the circumscribing rectangle of the medium and the vertical lines corresponding to the grid lines inside the circumscribing rectangle. If any of the calculated angles are greater than or equal to a predetermined angle threshold, the control unit 151 determines that the input image contains cumulative skew of the medium, and if any of the calculated angles are less than the angle threshold, the control unit 151 determines that the input image does not contain cumulative skew of the medium.

[0097] Furthermore, the control unit 151 may determine whether or not the input image contains distortion or wrinkles of the medium as an abnormality of the medium. The control unit 151 extracts pixels from among the pixels in the medium area whose brightness value is equal to or greater than the brightness threshold as pixels indicating the background color of the medium, and calculates the variance value of the brightness value of the extracted pixels. If the calculated variance value is equal to or greater than a predetermined variance threshold, the control unit 151 determines that the input image contains distortion or wrinkles of the medium, and if the calculated variance value is less than the variance threshold, it determines that the input image does not contain distortion or wrinkles.

[0098] Next, the control unit 151 determines whether or not there is any medium remaining on the mounting tray 103 based on the second medium signal received from the second medium sensor 112 (step S212).

[0099] If there is still media remaining on the mounting table 103, the control unit 151 controls the drive unit 131 to re-rotate the feed roller 113 to feed the next media (step S213). Next, the control unit 151 returns to step S204 and repeats the process from step S204 onward.

[0100] On the other hand, if there is no medium remaining on the mounting table 103, the control unit 151 controls the drive unit 131 to stop each roller (step S214). The control unit 151 stops the drive unit 131 and stops the separation roller 114, the first transport roller 117, the second transport roller 118, the first discharge roller 121 and / or the second discharge roller 122.

[0101] Next, the control unit 151 generates result screen display data for displaying the result screen and outputs it to the second display operation device 106, causing the result screen to be displayed on the second display operation device 106 (step S215).

[0102] Figure 9(B) is a schematic diagram showing the second display operation device and the first display operation device when the results screen is displayed.

[0103] The results screen 910 is a screen for notifying the user of the results of the media reading process. As shown in Figure 9(B), the results screen 910 includes a results object 911, an exit button 912, and a guidance display object 913, etc. The results object 911 is an object that displays the results of the media reading process. For each media that has been transported, the results object 911 displays the input image (or a reduced image thereof) of each media, the result of the determination of whether or not the input image contains any abnormalities in the media, etc. When the exit button 912 is pressed, the display of the error screen 900 ends and the home screen 600 is displayed. The guidance display object 913 is an object similar to the guidance display object 604.

[0104] Next, the control unit 151 determines whether it has received an operation signal from the first display operation device 105 or an end instruction signal from the second display operation device 106 to indicate the end of the media reading process (step S216). If the user inputs an instruction to read the media using the first display operation device 105, the first display operation device 105 outputs an operation signal to the control unit 151. On the other hand, if the user presses the end button 912 using the second display operation device 106, the second display operation device 106 outputs an end instruction signal to the control unit 151. If the control unit 151 receives an operation signal from the first display operation device 105, it returns to step S202 and repeats the process from step S202 onward. On the other hand, if the control unit 151 receives an end instruction signal from the second display operation device 106, it terminates the media reading process.

[0105] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the double-feed detection process in the information processing device.

[0106] The following describes an example of the operation of the double-feed detection process of the information processing device 100, referring to the flowchart shown in Figure 10. The operation flow described below is mainly executed by the processing circuit 150 in cooperation with each element of the information processing device 100, based on a program pre-stored in the storage device 140. The operation flow shown in Figure 10 is executed periodically during media transport.

[0107] First, the control unit 151 acquires an ultrasonic signal from the ultrasonic sensor 116 (step S301).

[0108] Next, the control unit 151 determines whether the acquired ultrasonic signal value is equal to or greater than the double-feed threshold (step S302). The double-feed threshold is set to a value between the ultrasonic signal value when one sheet of paper is being transported and the ultrasonic signal value when a double-feed occurs.

[0109] If the ultrasonic signal value is above the double-feed threshold, the control unit 151 determines that no double-feed of the medium has occurred (step S303) and returns to step S301.

[0110] On the other hand, if the signal value of the ultrasonic signal is less than the double-feed threshold, the control unit 151 determines that a double-feed of the medium has occurred (step S304).

[0111] Next, the control unit 151 controls the drive unit 131 to stop each roller (step S305). The control unit 151 stops the drive unit 131 and stops the feed roller 113, the separation roller 114, the first transport roller 117, the second transport roller 118, the first discharge roller 121 and / or the second discharge roller 122.

[0112] Next, the control unit 151 generates error screen display data and outputs it to the second display operation device 106, causing the error screen to be displayed on the second display operation device 106 (step S306). The control unit 151 displays an error screen on the second display operation device 106 that is the same as the error screen 900 shown in Figure 9. However, at this time, the error object 901 of the error screen 900 displays that a double feed of the media has occurred.

[0113] Next, the control unit 151 determines whether it has received an operation signal from the first display operation device 105 or an end instruction signal from the second display operation device 106 to indicate the end of the media reading process (step S307). If the user inputs an instruction to read the media using the first display operation device 105, the first display operation device 105 outputs an operation signal to the control unit 151. On the other hand, if the user presses the end button 902 using the second display operation device 106, the second display operation device 106 outputs an end instruction signal to the control unit 151.

[0114] When the control unit 151 receives an operation signal from the first display operation device 105, it controls the drive device 131 to restart the feeding and transport of the medium by re-rotating each roller that was stopped in step S305 (step S308), and then returns the process to step S301.

[0115] On the other hand, if the control unit 151 receives a termination instruction signal from the second display operation device 106, it stops the media reading process (step S309) and terminates the double feed determination process.

[0116] Figure 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the display control process of an information processing device.

[0117] The following describes an example of the operation of the display control processing of the information processing device 100, referring to the flowchart shown in Figure 11. The operation flow described below is executed primarily by the processing circuit 150 in cooperation with each element of the information processing device 100, based on a program pre-stored in the storage device 140. The operation flow shown in Figure 11 is executed periodically after the device is started up.

[0118] First, the control unit 151 determines whether the device state satisfies the start conditions for starting a predetermined process (step S401). The start conditions are the necessary conditions for starting a predetermined process.

[0119] For example, the control unit 151 determines whether the device status satisfies the start condition depending on the screen displayed on the second display operation device 106. In this case, the control unit 151 determines that the device status does not satisfy the start condition if the management screen 700 is displayed on the second display operation device 106, that is, if the user is setting management information. On the other hand, the control unit 151 determines that the device status satisfies the start condition if the home screen 600, settings screen 610, history screen 710, error screen 900, or results screen 910 is displayed on the second display operation device 106.

[0120] The control unit 151 may determine whether the device status satisfies the start conditions based on the screen and content displayed on the second display operation device 106. In this case, the control unit 151 determines that the device status does not satisfy the start conditions if the management screen 700 is displayed on the second display operation device 106 and a profile that has never been specified before or a profile whose number of times it has been specified in the past is less than the count threshold is specified. The count threshold is predetermined. On the other hand, the control unit 151 determines that the device status satisfies the start conditions if the management screen 700 is displayed on the second display operation device 106 and a profile that has been specified before or a profile whose number of times it has been specified in the past is equal to or greater than the count threshold is specified.

[0121] Furthermore, the control unit 151 may determine that the device status does not meet the start conditions if an error screen 900 is displayed on the second display operation device 106 and an abnormality has occurred that allows predetermined processing to be executed but requires recovery operation by the user, such as a media jam. Also, the control unit 151 may determine that the device status does not meet the start conditions if an error screen 900 is displayed on the second display operation device 106 and a serious abnormality has occurred that makes predetermined processing impossible, such as a hardware abnormality. The control unit 151 determines that a hardware abnormality has occurred in the imaging device 120 or the drive device 131, etc., when it receives an abnormality signal from the imaging device 120 or the drive device 131. On the other hand, even if an error screen 900 is displayed on the second display operation device 106, the control unit 151 may determine that the device status meets the start conditions if a minor abnormality has occurred that allows predetermined processing to be executed (continued), such as a media double feed. Furthermore, if the result screen 910 is displayed on the second display operation device 106, the control unit 151 may determine that the device status satisfies the start conditions regardless of whether or not any media abnormalities are included in any of the input images, that is, regardless of whether or not a minor abnormality has occurred that allows the predetermined processing to be executed (continued).

[0122] Furthermore, the control unit 151 may determine whether the device status satisfies the start conditions depending on the status of the device regarding the execution of a predetermined process. For example, if the specified profile is unavailable, the control unit 151 determines that the device status does not satisfy the start conditions, and if the specified profile is available, it determines that the device status satisfies the start conditions. The control unit 151 determines whether it is in a state where it can communicate with an external device or network based on the status signal received from the interface device 132 or communication device 133 that communicates with the destination set in the specified profile. If it is not in a state where it can communicate with an external device or network, the control unit 151 determines that the specified profile is unavailable, and if it is in a state where it can communicate with an external device or network, it determines that the specified profile is available.

[0123] If the device status does not meet the start conditions, the control unit 151 does not display a notification on the first display operation device 105 to inform the user that it is ready to accept the start operation for a predetermined process (step S402), and returns the process to step S401.

[0124] On the other hand, if the device state satisfies the start condition, the control unit 151 causes the notification display to appear on the first display operation device 105 (step S403). For example, the control unit 151 causes the notification display to appear on the first display operation device 105 by lighting up the display unit 105b of the first display operation device 105, and does not cause the notification display to appear on the first display operation device 105 by turning off the display unit 105b of the first display operation device 105. Alternatively, the control unit 151 may cause the notification display to appear on the first display operation device 105 by lighting up the display unit 105b of the first display operation device 105 in a first color (for example, blue). In that case, the control unit 151 does not cause the notification display to appear on the first display operation device 105 by lighting up the display unit 105b of the first display operation device 105 in a second color different from the first color (for example, red). Alternatively, the control unit 151 may cause the notification display on the first display operating device 105 by setting the brightness of the display unit 105b of the first display operating device 105 to a first intensity. In that case, the control unit 151 will not cause the notification display on the first display operating device 105 by setting the brightness of the display unit 105b of the first display operating device 105 to a second intensity lower than the first intensity.

[0125] Thus, when the device state satisfies the start condition, the control unit 151 displays a notification on the first display operation device 105, regardless of whether the suppression conditions described later are met. On the other hand, when the device state does not satisfy the start condition, the control unit 151 does not display a notification on the first display operation device 105, regardless of whether the suppression conditions described later are met. As a result, the user can reliably determine whether or not they can start a predetermined process by operating the first display operation device 105 to start the predetermined process, and the information processing device 100 can improve user convenience.

[0126] Next, the control unit 151 determines whether the device state satisfies the suppression conditions for suppressing the execution of a predetermined process (step S404). The suppression conditions are conditions that are met when the recommendation conditions for recommending the start of a predetermined process are not met. The recommendation conditions are stricter than the start conditions, and the start conditions are less strict than the recommendation conditions.

[0127] For example, the control unit 151 determines whether the device status satisfies the suppression conditions depending on the screen displayed on the second display operation device 106. For example, the control unit 151 determines that the device status does not satisfy the suppression conditions when the home screen 600 is displayed on the second display operation device 106, that is, when it is waiting to receive a command from the user to read a medium. Also, the control unit 151 determines that the device status does not satisfy the suppression conditions when the results screen 910 is displayed on the second display operation device 106, that is, when it is waiting to receive a command from the user to read an additional medium. On the other hand, the control unit 151 determines that the device status satisfies the suppression conditions when the settings screen 610, management screen 700, history screen 710, or error screen 900 is displayed on the second display operation device 106, that is, when the user is setting a profile or management information, or when they are checking the history or errors. Furthermore, the control unit 151 may determine that the device status does not meet the suppression conditions when the user is setting a profile, setting management information, checking the history, or checking for errors.

[0128] Thus, the suppression condition includes accepting setting operations by the user. This allows the user to concentrate on the setting operation without being guided towards the first display operation device 105 during the setting operation. Therefore, the information processing device 100 can improve user convenience.

[0129] Furthermore, the suppression conditions include displaying the history screen or error screen. This allows the user to concentrate on checking the history or errors without being guided towards the first display operation device 105 while checking the history or errors. Therefore, the information processing device 100 can improve user convenience.

[0130] The control unit 151 may also determine whether the device status satisfies the suppression conditions based on the screen and content displayed on the second display operation device 106. For example, the control unit 151 determines that the device status satisfies the suppression conditions if the management screen 700 is displayed on the second display operation device 106 and a profile that has never been specified before or a profile whose number of times it has been specified in the past is less than the count threshold is specified. On the other hand, the control unit 151 determines that the device status does not satisfy the suppression conditions if the management screen 700 is displayed on the second display operation device 106 and a profile that has been specified before or a profile whose number of times it has been specified in the past is equal to or greater than the count threshold is specified.

[0131] Furthermore, the control unit 151 may determine that the device status satisfies the suppression conditions if an error screen 900 is displayed on the second display operation device 106 and an abnormality has occurred that allows predetermined processing to be executed but requires recovery operation by the user, such as a media jam. Furthermore, the control unit 151 may determine that the device status satisfies the suppression conditions if an error screen 900 is displayed on the second display operation device 106 and a serious abnormality has occurred that makes predetermined processing impossible, such as a hardware abnormality. Furthermore, the control unit 151 may determine that the device status satisfies the suppression conditions if an error screen 900 is displayed on the second display operation device 106 and a minor abnormality has occurred that allows predetermined processing to be executed (continued), such as a media double feed. Furthermore, the control unit 151 may determine that the device status satisfies the suppression conditions if a result screen 910 is displayed on the second display operation device 106 and any input image contains a media abnormality, i.e., a minor abnormality has occurred that allows predetermined processing to be executed (continued). On the other hand, the control unit 151 may determine that the device status does not meet the suppression conditions if the result screen 910 is displayed on the second display operation device 106 and no abnormality of the medium is included in any of the input images.

[0132] Thus, the suppression condition includes the occurrence of an abnormality. This prevents users from being guided to the first display operation device 105 when an abnormality occurs, thus preventing them from overlooking the occurrence of an abnormality. In particular, the suppression condition includes the occurrence of a minor abnormality that allows for the execution of a predetermined process. This prevents users from being guided to the first display operation device 105 when a minor abnormality occurs, thus preventing them from overlooking the occurrence of a minor abnormality. Therefore, the information processing device 100 can improve user convenience.

[0133] Furthermore, the control unit 151 may determine whether the device status satisfies the start conditions depending on the status of the device regarding the execution of a predetermined process. For example, if the specified profile is unavailable, the control unit 151 determines that the device status satisfies the suppression conditions, and if the specified profile is available, it determines that the device status does not satisfy the suppression conditions. The control unit 151 determines whether it is in a state where it can communicate with an external device or network based on the status signal received from the interface device 132 or communication device 133 that communicates with the destination set in the specified profile. If it is not in a state where it can communicate with an external device or network, the control unit 151 determines that the specified profile is unavailable, and if it is in a state where it can communicate with an external device or network, it determines that the specified profile is available.

[0134] Furthermore, the control unit 151 may determine that the device state satisfies the suppression conditions if the medium is not properly set on the mounting base 103, and may determine that the device state does not satisfy the suppression conditions if the medium is properly set on the mounting base 103. The control unit 151 receives a first medium signal from the first medium sensor 111 and detects the size and / or quantity of the medium placed on the mounting base 103 based on the received first medium signal. Based on the first medium signal, the control unit 151 calculates the distance between each of the multiple infrared proximity sensors included in the first medium sensor 111 and the position where the light emitted by each sensor is reflected. The control unit 151 determines whether the light emitted by each sensor was reflected by the medium or by the mounting surface based on whether each calculated distance is less than or equal to a predetermined first threshold. The control unit 151 detects the distance between the positions of the two outermost sensors in the width direction A2 among the sensors whose emitted light was reflected by the medium as the size of the medium placed on the mounting base 103. The control unit 151 determines that the media is not properly set on the mounting tray 103 if the size of the detected media does not correspond to the size of the media set in the specified profile. On the other hand, the control unit 151 determines that the media is properly set on the mounting tray 103 if the size of the detected media corresponds to the size of the media set in the specified profile.

[0135] Furthermore, the control unit 151 determines that the amount of media placed on the mounting platform 103 (total height of media) exceeds the allowable amount if the distance between any sensor and the position where the light emitted by that sensor is reflected is less than or equal to a predetermined second threshold. On the other hand, the control unit 151 determines that the amount of media placed on the mounting platform 103 does not exceed the allowable amount if the distance calculated for all sensors is greater than the second threshold. If the amount of media placed on the mounting platform 103 exceeds the allowable amount, the control unit 151 determines that the media is not properly set on the mounting platform 103. On the other hand, if the amount of media placed on the mounting platform 103 does not exceed the allowable amount, the control unit 151 determines that the media is properly set on the mounting platform 103.

[0136] Furthermore, the control unit 151 may determine that the medium is not properly set on the mounting table 103 if no medium is placed on it, and determine that the medium is properly set on the mounting table 103 if a medium is placed on it. In that case, the control unit 151 determines whether or not a medium is placed on the mounting table 103 based on the second medium signal received from the second medium sensor 112.

[0137] If the device state satisfies the suppression conditions, the control unit 151 does not display a guidance indicator on the second display operation device 106 that guides the user's gaze to the first display operation device 105 (step S405), and returns to step S401.

[0138] On the other hand, if the device state does not satisfy the suppression conditions, the control unit 151 causes a guidance indicator to be displayed on the first display operation device 105 (step S406), and returns the process to step S401. The guidance indicator is an example of a predetermined display. The guidance indicator is displayed on the guidance indicator object displayed on the second display operation device 106. As shown in Figure 6, for example, the guidance indicator is an animation display that moves from the position of the second display operation device 106 toward the position of the first display operation device 105. For example, the guidance indicator is an animation display in which light flows from the end of the second display operation device 106 opposite to the first display operation device 105 toward the end on the first display operation device 105 side. The control unit 151 makes the brightness of each position in the horizontal direction within the guidance indicator object displayed on the second display operation device 106 different. The control unit 151 controls the display of the guidance display object so that the bright area (or dark area) within the guidance display object moves from the end of the second display operating device 106 opposite to the first display operating device 105 toward the end of the second display operating device 105 toward the first display operating device 105. As a result, the user's line of sight, while looking at the second display operating device 106, is guided from the position of the second display operating device 106 toward the position of the first display operating device 105, allowing the user to operate the first display operating device 105 in a natural flow and start reading the medium. Therefore, the information processing device 100 can improve user convenience.

[0139] In this way, the control unit 151 displays a guidance indicator on the second display operation device 106 when the device state satisfies the start condition and does not satisfy the suppression condition. This allows the user to operate the first display operation device 105 in a natural flow to start reading the medium, and the information processing device 100 can improve user convenience.

[0140] On the other hand, the control unit 151 does not display a guidance indicator on the second display operation device 106 when the device status satisfies the start condition and the suppression condition. This allows the user to concentrate on the setting or confirmation work currently being performed, and reduces the chance of overlooking minor abnormalities, thereby improving user convenience for the information processing device 100.

[0141] As detailed above, the information processing device 100 displays a predetermined message on the second display operation device 106 when it has met the start conditions for starting a predetermined process and has not met the suppression conditions for suppressing the execution of the predetermined process. This makes it possible for the information processing device 100 to improve user convenience.

[0142] The information processing device 100 notifies the user whether or not a predetermined process can be started by displaying a notification on the first display operation device 105 if the device status meets the start conditions. Furthermore, if the device status does not meet the suppression conditions, the information processing device 100 recommends that the user start the predetermined process by displaying a guidance notification on the second display operation device 106. This allows the user to accurately recognize the timing when they should perform the operation to start the predetermined process, and the information processing device 100 can improve user convenience.

[0143] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 has a first display operation device 105, which includes mechanical buttons, in addition to the second display operation device 106, which includes a touch panel. When setting profiles or management information, or checking history or errors, the user can flexibly operate a wide operating area using the touch panel, while when starting a predetermined process, they can reliably operate using the mechanical buttons. Therefore, the information processing device 100 can improve user operability.

[0144] Figure 12(A) is a schematic diagram illustrating a guidance display in an information processing device according to another embodiment. Figure 12(A) is a schematic diagram showing a second display operation device and a first display operation device when the home screen is displayed.

[0145] As shown in Figure 12(A), in this embodiment, the home screen 1200 displayed on the second display operating device 106 includes a guidance display object 1204 instead of the guidance display object 604. The guidance display object 1204, like the guidance display object 604, is an object for displaying guidance information that guides the user's gaze to the first display operating device 105. The guidance information displayed on the guidance display object 1204 is a graphic display that points from the position of the second display operating device 106 to the position of the first display operating device 105. The control unit 151 displays an arrow within the guidance display object 1204 that points from the position of the second display operating device 106 to the position of the first display operating device 105. As a result, the gaze of a user who is looking at the second display operating device 106 is guided from the position of the second display operating device 106 to the position of the first display operating device 105, and the user can operate the first display operating device 105 in a natural flow to start reading the medium. Therefore, the information processing device 100 can improve user convenience.

[0146] As detailed above, the information processing device 100 can also improve user convenience when displaying a graphic representation as a guidance display, which is directed from the position of the second display operation device 106 towards the position of the first display operation device 105.

[0147] Figure 12(B) is a schematic diagram illustrating a guidance display in an information processing device according to yet another embodiment. Figure 12(B) is a schematic diagram showing a second display operation device and a first display operation device when the home screen is displayed.

[0148] As shown in Figure 12(B), in this embodiment, the home screen 1210 displayed on the second display operation device 106 includes a guidance display object 1214 instead of the guidance display object 604. The guidance display object 1214, like the guidance display object 604, is an object for displaying guidance information that guides the user's gaze to the first display operation device 105. The guidance information displayed on the guidance display object 1214 is a text message prompting the user to start a predetermined process. The control unit 151 causes the guidance display object 1214 to display text prompting the user to press the first display operation device 105. As a result, the user's gaze, which is looking at the second display operation device 106, is guided to the first display operation device 105 for performing the operation to start a predetermined process, and the user can operate the first display operation device 105 in a natural flow to start reading the medium. Therefore, the information processing device 100 can improve user convenience.

[0149] As detailed above, the information processing device 100 can also improve user convenience by displaying a message prompting the user to start a predetermined process as a guidance display.

[0150] Figure 13(A) is a schematic diagram illustrating a guidance display in an information processing device according to yet another embodiment. Figure 13(A) is a schematic diagram showing a second display operation device and a first display operation device when the home screen is displayed.

[0151] As shown in Figure 13(A), in this embodiment, the home screen 1300 displayed on the second display operation device 106 includes a guidance display object 1304 instead of the guidance display object 604. The guidance display object 1304, like the guidance display object 604, is an object for displaying guidance information that guides the user's gaze to the first display operation device 105. The guidance information displayed on the guidance display object 1304 is a graphic display that prompts the user to start a predetermined process. The control unit 151 displays a graphic prompting the user to press the first display operation device 105 within the guidance display object 1214. As a result, the user's gaze, which is looking at the second display operation device 106, is guided to the first display operation device 105 for performing the operation to start a predetermined process, and the user can operate the first display operation device 105 in a natural flow to start reading the medium. Therefore, the information processing device 100 can improve user convenience.

[0152] As detailed above, the information processing device 100 can also improve user convenience by displaying a message prompting the user to start a predetermined process as a guidance display.

[0153] Figure 13(B) is a schematic diagram illustrating a guidance display in an information processing device according to yet another embodiment. Figure 13(B) is a schematic diagram showing a second display operation device when the home screen is displayed.

[0154] The information processing device according to this embodiment has the parts of the information processing device 100. However, the information processing device does not have the first display operation device 105, and instead of the second display operation device 106, it has a second display operation device 206. The second display operation device 206 has the same configuration and functions as the second display operation device 106. The second display operation device 206 has an input device such as a touch panel and an interface circuit that acquires signals from the input device, accepts operations by the user, and outputs a signal corresponding to the user's input.

[0155] As shown in Figure 13(B), the second display operation device 206 includes a first area 206a and a second area 206b. The first area 206a of the second display operation device 206 is an example of a first operation unit, and the second area 206b of the second display operation device 206 is an example of a second operation unit. By not having the first display operation device 105, the information processing device can reduce the number of parts and thus reduce the device cost.

[0156] The first area 206a displays an operation button 1320. The operation button 1320 is a button for accepting start and end operations for predetermined processes by the user. Furthermore, the operation button 1320 or the area surrounding the operation button 1320 within the first area 206a can have its display mode changed by changing the information displayed on the display according to instructions from the control unit 151. In step S402 of Figure 11, the control unit 151 does not display the notification display in the first area 206a of the second display operation device 206, and in step S403 of Figure 11, it displays the notification display in the first area 206a of the second display operation device 206. For example, the control unit 151 displays the notification display in the first area 206a by making the brightness of the operation button 1320 or the area surrounding the operation button 1320 higher than the brightness of other areas. On the other hand, the control unit 151 prevents the notification display from being shown in the first area 206a by not making the brightness of the operation button 1320 or the area surrounding the operation button 1320 higher than the brightness of other areas.

[0157] The second area 206b displays the home screen 1310. The second area 206b also displays the settings screen, management screen, history screen, error screen, or results screen. The home screen 1310 includes a guidance display object 1314 instead of the guidance display object 604. The guidance display object 1314 is an object for displaying guidance information that guides the user's gaze to the first display operation device 105, similar to the guidance display objects 604, 1204, 1214, or 1314. This allows the user to operate the first display operation device 105 in a natural flow and start reading the medium. Therefore, the information processing device 100 can improve user convenience.

[0158] The control unit 151 may change the area of ​​the first region 206a and / or the second region 206b depending on the state of the device. For example, the control unit 151 may make the area of ​​the first region 206a larger when the device state satisfies the start condition but does not satisfy the suppression condition than the area of ​​the first region 206a when the device state satisfies both the start condition and the suppression condition. On the other hand, the control unit 151 may make the area of ​​the second region 206b smaller when the device state satisfies the start condition but does not satisfy the suppression condition than the area of ​​the second region 206b when the device state satisfies both the start condition and the suppression condition. Furthermore, the control unit 151 may make the area of ​​the first region 206a larger when the device state satisfies both the start condition and the suppression condition than the area of ​​the first region 206a when the device state does not satisfy the start condition. On the other hand, the control unit 151 makes the area of ​​the second region 206b smaller when the device state satisfies both the start condition and the suppression condition than the area of ​​the second region 206b when the device state does not satisfy the start condition. As a result, the user can more accurately recognize the timing at which they should perform the operation to start a predetermined process, and the information processing device 100 can improve user convenience.

[0159] As detailed above, even when the information processing device displays guidance information and an object that accepts the operation to start a predetermined process on a single display, it is now possible to improve user convenience.

[0160] Figure 14 shows a schematic configuration of a processing circuit in an information processing device according to yet another embodiment.

[0161] The processing circuit 250 is used in place of the processing circuit 150 and performs setting processing, media reading processing, double feed detection processing, display control processing, etc., instead of the processing circuit 150. The processing circuit 250 includes a control circuit 251 and a setting circuit 252, etc. Each of these parts may be composed of an independent integrated circuit, microprocessor, firmware, etc.

[0162] The control circuit 251 is an example of a control unit and has the same functions as the control unit 151. The control circuit 251 receives operation signals from the first display operation device 105, first media signals from the first media sensor 111, second media signals from the second media sensor 112, third media signals from the third media sensor 115, ultrasonic signals from the ultrasonic sensor 116, and fourth media signals from the fourth media sensor 119. Based on the received information, the control circuit 251 controls the drive device 131 and the imaging device 120, acquires an input image from the imaging device 120, stores it in the storage device 140, and outputs it to the interface device 132 or the communication device 133. The control circuit 251 also receives an instruction signal from the second display operation device 106, controls the display of the second display operation device 106 according to the instruction indicated in the instruction signal, and outputs the instruction indicated in the instruction signal to the setting circuit 252.

[0163] The setting circuit 252 is an example of a setting unit and has the same functions as the setting unit 152. The setting circuit 252 receives instructions indicated by an instruction signal from the control circuit 251 and sets each item or management information included in the profile in the storage device 140, imaging device 120, or drive device 131.

[0164] As detailed above, the information processing device can improve user convenience even when using the processing circuit 250.

[0165] While preferred embodiments have been described above, the embodiments are not limited to these. For example, when the information processing device displays a guidance display on the second display operating device 106, it may link the notification display displayed on the first display operating device 105 with the guidance display displayed on the second display operating device 106. For example, if the guidance display is an animation display in which light flows from the end of the second display operating device 106 opposite to the first display operating device 105 toward the end toward the first display operating device 105, the notification display may be an animation display in which light flows from the end of the first display operating device 105 toward the end opposite to the second display operating device 106. In that case, when the light reaches the end of the second display operating device 106 toward the first display operating device 105, the control unit 151 performs display control on the first display operating device 105 so that the light flows from the end toward the second display operating device 106 toward the opposite end.

[0166] Furthermore, the guidance display and notification display may also be an animation display that changes the brightness of the second display operation device 106 and the first display operation device 105 or makes the second display operation device 106 and the first display operation device 105 flash at the same time. By doing so, the information processing device can improve the sense of coordination between the second display operation device 106 and the first display operation device 105, and more strongly guide the user's gaze to the first display operation device 105.

[0167] Furthermore, the media transport path of the information processing device may have a so-called U-turn path mechanism, feeding and transporting the media placed on the mounting table sequentially from the top, and discharging it to the discharge table. In this case, the separation roller is positioned below the feeding roller and opposite to the feeding roller. Alternatively, the information processing device may be a flatbed type device that captures images without transporting the media.

[0168] Furthermore, the information processing device may have an image forming device instead of, or in addition to, the imaging device 120. The image forming device is an inkjet or laser printer, etc., positioned at a location corresponding to where the imaging device 120 is located, and forms an image (prints predetermined information) on the transported medium. In this case, the predetermined process is the formation of an image on the medium.

[0169] Furthermore, the information processing device may be any device such as a server, personal computer, smartphone, mobile phone, or printer. In that case, the prescribed processing may be any processing that a general computer can perform. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0170] 100 Information processing device, 105 First display operation device, 106, 206 Second display operation device, 151 Control unit

Claims

1. A first operation unit that accepts an operation to start a predetermined process, A second operation unit that accepts operations and can change the display mode, It has a control unit and The control unit causes a predetermined display on the second operation unit if the device state satisfies the start condition for starting the predetermined process and does not satisfy the suppression condition for suppressing the execution of the predetermined process. An information processing device characterized by the following:

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined display is a guidance display that guides the user's gaze to the first operation unit.

3. The first operation unit is capable of changing the display mode, The control unit, If the device state satisfies the start condition, regardless of whether the suppression condition is met, a notification display is shown on the first operation unit to inform the user that the start operation for the predetermined process can be accepted. If the device state does not satisfy the start condition, the notification display is not shown on the first operation unit, regardless of whether the suppression condition is met, as described in claim 1 or 2.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit prevents the second operation unit from displaying the predetermined display when the device state satisfies the start condition and the suppression condition.

5. The first operating section includes a mechanical button, The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second operating unit includes a touch panel.

6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first operation unit and the second operation unit include a touch panel.

7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the predetermined processing is reading a medium.

8. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the suppression conditions include accepting a setting operation by a user, displaying a history screen or an error screen, or an abnormality occurring.

9. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the predetermined display is an animation display directed from the position of the second operation unit toward the position of the first operation unit, a text display or graphic display prompting the start of the predetermined process, or a graphic display directed from the position of the second operation unit toward the position of the first operation unit.

10. The first operation unit receives the operation to start a predetermined process, A second operation unit, capable of changing the display mode, accepts the operation, If the device state satisfies the start conditions for initiating the predetermined process, and does not satisfy the suppression conditions for suppressing the execution of the predetermined process, a predetermined display is shown on the second operation unit. An information processing method characterized by the following:

11. A control program for an information processing device having a first operation unit that receives an operation to start a predetermined process, and a second operation unit that receives an operation and can change the display mode, If the device state satisfies the start conditions for initiating the predetermined process, and does not satisfy the suppression conditions for suppressing the execution of the predetermined process, a predetermined display is shown on the second operation unit. A control program characterized by causing the information processing device to perform the following action.

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