Information processing device and display method

Abstract

For example, one of the objectives is to enable smooth device setup procedures, depending on the operator performing the setup. [Solution] The information processing device comprises a display unit, a state detection unit for detecting the state of the information processing device, an event determination unit for determining the occurrence of an event requiring the display of a warning screen, and a control unit. The control unit displays a setting screen on the display unit that enables the display corresponding to the event. When the event determination unit determines that an event requiring the display of a warning screen has occurred, the control unit suppresses the display of the warning screen on the display unit based on the state of the information processing device detected by the state detection unit.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] For example, as shown in Patent Document 1, when a connection device having a setting unit that gradually restricts the operation content in an image processing apparatus is connected to the image processing apparatus, an operation screen for a special user such as a service technician is displayed, and when the above connection device is not connected to the image processing apparatus, an image processing apparatus that displays an operation screen for a general user is disclosed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] One object of the present disclosure is to be able to smoothly perform the setting work of the apparatus according to, for example, the operator who executes the setting of the apparatus.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The information processing apparatus of the present disclosure includes a display unit, a state detection unit that detects the state of the information processing apparatus, an event determination unit that determines the occurrence of an event that requires the display of a warning screen, and a control unit. The control unit displays a setting screen that enables the display corresponding to the event on the display unit, and when the event determination unit determines the occurrence of the event that requires the display of the warning screen, suppresses the display of the warning screen on the display unit based on the state of the information processing apparatus detected by the state detection unit.

[0006] The display method of this disclosure includes a display step, a state detection step for detecting the state of the information processing device, an event determination step for determining the occurrence of an event requiring the display of a warning screen, and a control step for displaying a setting screen that enables display according to the event in the display step, and if the event determination step determines that an event requiring the display of a warning screen has occurred, suppressing the display of the warning screen in the display step based on the state of the information processing device detected in the state detection step. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to this disclosure, for example, it becomes possible to provide an information processing device, etc., that can perform device setup work smoothly, depending on the operator performing the setup work. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a diagram illustrating the overview of the apparatus in the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This diagram illustrates the hardware configuration of the device in the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This diagram illustrates the software configuration of the device in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This figure illustrates (a) an example of a setting execution unit and (b) an example of a specific encrypted file in the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This diagram illustrates the flow of the main processing in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This diagram illustrates the flow of the settings screen display process in the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This figure illustrates an example of operation in the first embodiment. [Figure 8] This diagram illustrates the flow of the settings screen display process in the second embodiment. [Figure 9] This figure illustrates an example of operation in the second embodiment. [Figure 10]This figure illustrates an example of operation in the second embodiment. [Figure 11] This figure illustrates an example of operation in the second embodiment. [Figure 12] This figure illustrates an example of operation in the second embodiment. [Figure 13] This figure illustrates an example of operation in the second embodiment. [Figure 14] This diagram illustrates the flow of the main processing in the third embodiment. [Figure 15] This diagram illustrates the flow of the main processing in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 16] This diagram illustrates the flow of the settings screen display process in the fourth embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] Information processing devices, for example, require many settings to be configured during initial setup. For complex devices like multifunction printers, initial setup often involved dispatching employees or service technicians from the dealership to perform the necessary procedures. However, due to factors such as declining prices and labor shortages, there is a growing trend for the user (the person using the multifunction printer) to perform the initial setup themselves, rather than sending dealership employees or service technicians.

[0010] Here, when initially installing a multifunction device, the need to give warning displays differs between a service operator who is accustomed to operating the multifunction device and a user operator who is operating the multifunction device for the first time due to differences in experience. For a user operator who is not accustomed to the initial installation operation, for example, it is difficult to understand the installation of image forming units such as toner cartridges and developing units, so it is necessary to give a warning display to prevent mistakes. On the other hand, for service operators, displaying such warning displays would be redundant, and for example, it is necessary to spend unnecessary time on screen operations such as the operation to confirm the warning display. There was a problem that it was impossible to give warning displays according to the operator, such as minimizing the warning displays for service operators (dealers) and maximizing the warning displays for user operators.

[0011] Also, there are cases where only some of the initial installations are performed by service operators and then the remaining initial installations are performed by user operators, or cases where the device is handed over to the user operator before the initial installation by the service operator is completed. In such cases, in order to distinguish the operator according to the timing of the initial installation, there was also a problem that the warning display was not appropriately displayed according to the operator depending on the timing of handing over to the user operator.

[0012] An information processing apparatus that solves such problems will be described in the following embodiments while referring to the drawings. Note that the following embodiments are illustrative examples of the content described in the claims, and the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the description of the following embodiments.

[0013] [1. First Embodiment] The first embodiment will be described below. In the first embodiment, the following will be described as an example. In the following embodiments, the case where the information processing apparatus of the present disclosure is applied to an image forming apparatus will be described, but it is also applicable to other apparatuses.

[0014] [1.1 Overall Configuration] [1.1.1 Outline of the Apparatus] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating the outline of an image forming apparatus 10 and an external storage device 20 that can be connected to the image forming apparatus 10.

[0015] The image forming apparatus 10 is, for example, a device called a multifunction printer or an MFP (Multifunction Peripheral / Printer). For example, when the image forming apparatus 10 executes a job (print job), it can form an image on paper, which is a recording medium. The image forming apparatus 10 can execute jobs for multiple functions, such as copying, faxing, scanning, and printing. The image forming apparatus 10 has an I / F (Interface) section 180, and can be connected to various external devices, for example, via a USB (Universal Serial Bus) port.

[0016] The external storage device 20 may be a portable storage device (removable storage) such as a USB memory stick, a portable HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or a portable SSD (Solid State Drive). The external storage device 20 is connected to the image forming apparatus 10 by using a storage bus standard such as USB, eSATA (External Serial Advanced Technology Attachment), or IEEE1394, for example, by being inserted into a USB port if it is a USB memory stick.

[0017] [1.1.2 Terminology] Hereafter, terms used in this specification will be used in a manner that can be understood by those skilled in the art, for example as follows:

[0018] "Initial setup" refers to the process of setting up the image forming apparatus 10 so that it can be used by a user, for example, by operating setting screens that are displayed in sequence. The image forming apparatus 10 executes one or more setting modules in sequence, with each setting module displaying a setting screen one after another. Here, a setting module is a program that displays a setting screen on the display unit 140 of the image forming apparatus 10 and executes the settings. The image forming apparatus 10 can perform initial setup using a user interface that allows a series of settings to be executed by such a series of programs, for example, in the form of a wizard. In this embodiment, initial setup is used as an example, but it can also be applied to reconfiguration, such as changing settings after initial setup has already been completed.

[0019] A "service worker" is a person who performs initial setup and other configuration work on the image forming apparatus 10, such as an employee or service technician of a dealer dispatched to provide services related to the image forming apparatus 10. The operating mode in which the image forming apparatus 10 suppresses the display of setting screens such as warning screens (warning display) and initial approval request screens (initial approval request display) during initial setup, or displays alternative screens instead, is called "dealer mode."

[0020] A "user operator" refers to, for example, a general user who uses the image forming apparatus 10. User operators can perform setting tasks such as initial setup of the image forming apparatus 10 on behalf of service operators. The operating mode in which the image forming apparatus 10 displays setting screens such as warning screens and initial approval request screens during initial setup is called "user mode."

[0021] The term "settings screen" refers to a display screen used by user operators or service operators to configure the image forming apparatus 10. The settings screen may include, for example, a settings operation screen, a notification screen, a warning screen, an initial approval request screen, and an alternative screen.

[0022] The settings operation screen refers to a settings screen on which user operators or service operators perform operations to configure the image forming apparatus 10. The notification screen refers to a settings screen that provides notifications and alerts to user operators or service operators. The warning screen refers to a settings screen that, during initial setup, warns user operators, for example, by including instructions on how to prevent incorrect operations or settings. The initial approval request screen refers to a settings screen that, during initial setup, requests user operators to approve items that require approval. The alternative screen refers to a settings screen that is different from the warning screen or initial approval request screen, for example, when initial setup is performed in dealer mode, and is displayed instead of the warning screen or initial approval request screen.

[0023] The settings screen may be a combination of one or more of the above settings screens to form a single display screen, or it may be a dialog-like window displayed on the display screen, or it may be a display screen that switches to show a different display screen. The settings screen may be stored in a settings module, for example, as a user settings screen (first settings screen) to be displayed to the user operator and a dealer settings screen (second settings screen) to be displayed to the service operator.

[0024] In this embodiment, "dealer" refers to an organization such as a distributor or manufacturer of the image forming apparatus 10. The dealer can set the scope (for example, items such as remote firmware update settings, password settings, and image adjustment settings) and period during which a service worker can perform the initial setup in dealer mode.

[0025] [1.2 Hardware Configuration] Figure 2 shows the hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus 10, which is a representative example of the apparatus included in this disclosure. The hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 10 will be explained below with reference to the figure. Figure 2 shows an example of an image forming apparatus 10. The image forming apparatus 10 also has general functions as needed.

[0026] As shown in Figure 2, the image forming apparatus 10 includes a control unit 100, a storage device (storage unit) consisting of a storage 110, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 120, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 130, a display unit 140, an operation unit 150, an image forming unit 160, an image reading unit 165, a communication unit 170, and an I / F unit 180.

[0027] The control unit 100 controls the entire image forming apparatus 10. The control unit 100 realizes various functions by reading and executing various programs stored in a storage device (for example, storage 110 or ROM 120). The control unit 100 may be implemented by one or more control devices / arithmetic units (CPU (Central Processing Unit), SoC (System on a Chip)). Alternatively, the control unit 100 may be composed of one or more control circuits.

[0028] Storage 110 is a non-volatile storage device capable of storing programs and data. For example, it may consist of one or more storage devices such as HDDs or SSDs. Alternatively, storage 110 may be an external storage device such as a USB memory stick that can be connected to the image forming apparatus 10. Furthermore, storage 110 may be, for example, a storage area located in the cloud.

[0029] ROM120 is a non-volatile memory that can retain programs and data even when the power is turned off.

[0030] RAM130 is the main memory primarily used by the control unit 100 when executing processes. RAM130 is a rewritable memory that temporarily holds data including programs read from storage 110 and ROM 120, as well as the results of process execution.

[0031] The display unit 140 is a display device capable of displaying various information and various screens such as execution screens. The display unit 140 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic electroluminescence (OLED) display, or an electrophoretic display. The display unit 140 also includes an interface to which a display device can be connected. For example, it may consist of an external display device connected via HDMI® (High-Definition Multimedia Interface), DVI (Digital Visual Interface), or DisplayPort.

[0032] The operation unit 150 is an operating device capable of receiving user input. For example, it may be a software key displayed on a touch panel integrated with the display unit 140, or a hardware key such as an operation button. Alternatively, the operation unit 150 may be an operating device such as a keyboard or a mouse. Furthermore, the operation unit 150 may include an interface (e.g., USB) to which an operating device can be connected. For example, the image forming apparatus 10 may connect different operating devices (such as a keyboard or mouse) via an interface.

[0033] The image forming unit 160 forms an image, for example, on recording paper. The image forming unit 160 includes, for example, an image carrier, forms a toner image on the image carrier, and forms an image by transferring the toner image on the image carrier onto the recording paper. The image forming unit 160 may be configured as an image forming device such as a printer. Alternatively, the image forming unit 160 may form an image electronically as an image file.

[0034] The image reading unit 165 reads the original document (image) and outputs it as image data. The image reading unit 165 may be, for example, a scanner, or a reading device utilizing a CCD (Charge Coupled Device), CIS (Contact Image Sensor), or CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor.

[0035] The communication unit 170 is a communication interface for communicating with other devices. For example, it may be a network interface capable of providing wired or wireless connections. In this embodiment, it is possible to communicate with other devices via a network NW.

[0036] The network (NW) to which the image forming apparatus 10 is connected can be any communication line or communication system. For example, it may use a wired or wireless LAN (Local Area Network), VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network), the Internet, a public telephone network, or a mobile communication system (e.g., 4G / 5G / 6G mobile communication), or a next-generation telephone network.

[0037] The I / F section 180 is an external bus interface for connecting to various external devices. For example, it may be a serial bus interface or a multibus interface that can connect to an external storage device 20, a mouse, a keyboard, etc. In this embodiment, it is possible to connect to the external storage device 20 via a USB port.

[0038] Since the external storage device 20 is a typical external storage device such as a USB memory stick, a detailed explanation will be omitted. For example, the external storage device 20 has at least a control unit, a storage unit (storage, ROM, RAM), and an I / F unit.

[0039] [1.3 Software Configuration] The main software configurations for each device included in this disclosure will be described with reference to Figure 3(a). Figure 3(a) is a diagram showing an example of the software configuration of the image forming apparatus 10. Note that the software configuration shown in Figure 3 mainly describes the configurations necessary for this embodiment, and other configurations are omitted.

[0040] [1.3.1 Image forming apparatus] First, let's describe the main software configuration of the image forming apparatus 10. For example, the control unit 100 can realize the state detection unit 1010, the event determination unit 1020, the setting execution unit 1030, and the decoding unit 1040 by reading and executing programs stored in the storage 110 and ROM 120.

[0041] The state detection unit 1010 detects the state of the device, for example, the state of the image forming apparatus 10 or changes in the state of the device. Here, the state of the device refers to the connection status of the image forming apparatus 10 with external devices, the state of the hardware, the state of the software, etc.

[0042] The state detection unit 1010 may detect, for example, the state of the device or changes in the state of the device, such as the following. The state detection unit 1010 may detect the state of the device as a connection state with an external device, for example, whether or not the external storage device 20 is connected to the image forming apparatus 10 via the I / F unit 180. The state detection unit 1010 may detect the state of the device as a hardware-related state, for example, the open / closed state of the door, the paper loading state, and the switch state. If the state detection unit 1010 detects the open / closed state of the door, for example, it will detect the state of the device as whether the door is open or closed. The state detection unit 1010 may also detect the state of the device as a software-related state, for example, whether a scan job is being executed, whether a specific setting module is being executed, or whether image quality adjustment is being performed.

[0043] If the state detection unit 1010 detects the state of the image forming apparatus 10 or a change in the state of the apparatus, it may, for example, notify the event determination unit 1020 of the state of the apparatus as an event.

[0044] The event determination unit 1020 determines the occurrence of an event based on an event received from the state detection unit 1010, for example. Here, the occurrence of an event means that there is a specific process corresponding to the received event. For example, if an event occurs while a setting module is being executed, the event determination unit 1020 compares the received event with the conditions for the occurrence of the event stored in the setting module. Then, for example, if the conditions for the occurrence of the event and the received event match, the event determination unit 1020 determines that an event has occurred.

[0045] Furthermore, the event determination unit 1020 may determine not just one event, but multiple events. For example, the event determination unit 1020 can determine the occurrence of an event by comparing multiple events, such as events based on the open / closed state of the door of the image forming apparatus 10, the paper setting state, and the switch state, with the conditions for event occurrence. Also, the specific process is not limited to processes stored in the setting module. For example, the event determination unit 1020 can determine the occurrence of an event for a process such as storing a flag to activate dealer mode or user mode.

[0046] The setting execution unit 1030 executes, for example, setting modules stored in the setting module storage area 1120. The setting execution unit 1030 executes the setting modules sequentially, for example, in a predetermined order. As a result, the setting execution unit 1030 can execute each setting module one after another, displaying the setting screens one after another on the display unit 140, thereby performing the initial setup of the image forming apparatus 10.

[0047] Here, the setting execution unit 1030 may execute the setting modules in a different order depending on whether it is in user mode or dealer mode. When the event determination unit 1020 determines that an event has occurred, the setting execution unit 1030 may, for example, execute a process that corresponds to the occurrence of the event if such a process is stored in the currently executing setting module.

[0048] Figure 4(a) shows an example of a setting module executed by the setting execution unit 1030. The setting execution unit 1030 executes the module name (e.g., language setting) in user mode in user execution order (e.g., "2nd") and in dealer mode in dealer execution order (e.g., "5th"). Note that the user execution order and dealer execution order may store, for example, "nth (n=1,2,3,4,5,...n)" and "do not execute". Here, "do not execute" indicates that the setting execution unit 1030 does not execute the module in user mode or dealer mode.

[0049] In this embodiment, the setting execution unit 1030 stores the table shown in Figure 4(a) in the storage 110, reads it, and executes it. However, the setting execution unit 1030 may execute the setting modules sequentially without using the table; for example, it may be a program that pre-programs the execution order of the setting modules for dealer mode and user mode. In this way, the setting execution unit 1030 changes the execution order of the setting modules based on the operating mode, and further switches and displays the setting screen in response to the occurrence of an event. As a result, the setting execution unit 1030 executes the setting modules in a different order for user mode and dealer mode and displays different setting screens in sequence.

[0050] The setting execution unit 1030 can, for example, display a first group of setting screens consisting of multiple first setting screens on the display unit 140 in user mode, and display a second group of setting screens consisting of multiple second setting screens on the display unit 140 in dealer mode.

[0051] The decryption unit 1040 performs a process to decrypt a specific encrypted file 2110 obtained from an external storage device 20, for example. The decryption unit 1040 decrypts the specific encrypted file 2110 using an encryption key to obtain a specific file. Here, the specific file is, for example, a file used to identify and distinguish a service worker. Here, the encryption key may be stored in the storage 110 of the image forming apparatus 10, for example, or it may be embedded as a program and stored in the decryption unit 1040. The decryption unit 1040 may decrypt the specific encrypted file 2110, which has been encrypted using an encryption method such as AES (Advanced Encryption Standard), RC4 (Rivest Cipher 4 / Ron's Code 4), or DES (Data Encryption Standard), using the same encryption method.

[0052] Furthermore, the storage 110 reserves a configuration information storage area 1110 for storing configuration information. Configuration information refers to configuration information necessary for the operation of the image forming apparatus 10. Here, configuration information necessary for the operation of the image forming apparatus 10 may include, for example, configuration information necessary for network operation, security-related configuration information such as administrator passwords and user passwords, or display-related configuration information such as the language to be displayed on the display unit 140. Configuration information is stored in the configuration information storage area 1110, for example, when a user operator or service operator operates the configuration screen and makes settings, the configuration information corresponding to the executed configuration module is stored.

[0053] Furthermore, the storage 110 reserves a configuration module storage area 1120. Here, the configuration module storage area 1120 stores configuration modules for execution by the configuration execution unit 1030. The configuration module can, for example, display a first set of configuration screens and a second set of configuration screens in the form of a wizard, but it also stores a program that performs the following processing, for example.

[0054] (1) When the setting execution unit 1030 executes a setting module, the display unit 140 displays a setting screen corresponding to the setting module. The user can operate the setting screen to execute the settings. If the user performs an operation that switches between the setting screens sequentially, such as selecting the Next button, the setting execution unit 1030 terminates the setting module and executes the setting module corresponding to the next execution order. On the other hand, if the user performs an operation that switches between the setting screens in reverse order, such as selecting the Back button, the setting execution unit 1030 terminates the setting module and executes the setting module corresponding to the previous execution order.

[0055] (2) If the event determination unit 1020 determines that an event has occurred, the setting execution unit 1030 displays the first setting screen or the second setting screen corresponding to the occurrence of the event on the display unit 140. Depending on the occurrence of the event, the setting execution unit 1030 may display, for example, a first setting screen including a warning screen or an initial approval request screen, and a second setting screen including an alternative screen.

[0056] (3) When running in a specific operating mode, for example, dealer mode, the setting execution unit 1030 can store the work status (for example, information such as which setting module was being executed, setting information set during initial setup, and execution flag information for the executed setting module) when it terminates a setting module.

[0057] The setting module may also be stored in the setting module storage area 1120 as a subroutine, with the setting execution unit 1030 serving as the main program (main routine).

[0058] [1.3.2 External storage device] Next, the main software configuration of the external storage device 20 will be explained with reference to Figure 3(b). Figure 3(b) is a diagram showing an example of the software configuration of the external storage device 20.

[0059] The storage unit of the external storage device 20 reserves an area for storing the specific encrypted file 2110. Here, the specific encrypted file 2110 is, for example, a file that has been encrypted. An example of the information stored in the specific encrypted file 2110 will be explained with reference to Figure 4(b). It stores items necessary for determination (for example, "expiration date") and values ​​corresponding to the items (for example, "2028 / 12 / 06"). In this embodiment, the specific encrypted file 2110 is stored in the external storage device 20 as a file for identifying and distinguishing a service worker, but it may also include information such as whether the initial setup is performed in user mode or dealer mode, for example, information on the operation mode of the initial setup.

[0060] Furthermore, the storage unit of the external storage device 20 reserves an area for storing an additional file 2120. Here, the additional file 2120 is a file that, for example, if there is an interruption during the initial setup, adds and stores information up to the point of the interruption in the external storage device 20. The additional file 2120 stores the work status as information up to the point of the interruption.

[0061] [1.4 Processing Flow] The processing flow in this embodiment will be explained below using Figures 5 and 6. Figure 5 is a diagram showing the main processing flow, and Figure 6 is a diagram showing the settings screen display processing flow. Note that each configuration described in Figure 2 or Figure 3 may execute the processing of each step.

[0062] [1.4.1 Main Processing Flow] First, the control unit 100 determines whether the initial setup has been completed (S102). One way to determine whether the initial setup has been completed is to store a flag in the configuration information storage area 1110 that can determine whether the initial setup has been completed, and the control unit 100 can make the determination based on this flag. If the initial setup has been completed, the control unit 100 performs a normal startup, such as displaying the main screen (S102; Yes).

[0063] On the other hand, if the initial setup has not been performed, the control unit 100 determines whether or not the external storage device 20 is connected (S102; No → S104). If the external storage device 20 is connected, the control unit 100 reads the external storage device 20 and determines whether or not the specific encrypted file 2110 is stored in the external storage device 20 (S104; Yes → S106). If the specific encrypted file 2110 is stored in the external storage device 20, the control unit 100 decrypts the specific encrypted file 2110 and obtains the specific file (S106; Yes → S108).

[0064] Next, the control unit 100 determines whether the expiration date stored in the specific file obtained by decrypting the specific encrypted file 2110 has expired (S110). Here, the control unit 100 may determine that the expiration date stored in the specific file has not expired if, for example, the specific file is readable correctly and the expiration date has not expired. If the expiration date has not expired, the control unit 100 temporarily stores and sets a flag in, for example, the storage 110 or RAM 130 to perform the initial setup in dealer mode (S110; No → S112).

[0065] On the other hand, the control unit 100 sets the initial setup to be performed in user mode if the external storage device 20 is not connected (S104; No), if the specific encrypted file 2110 is not stored (S106; No), or if the expiration date stored in the specific file has expired (S110; Yes) (S114).

[0066] Next, the control unit 100 executes the setting screen display process (S116). Here, the setting screen display process is the process of determining, depending on whether the setting module is executed in user mode or dealer mode, whether to display a first set of setting screens that does not suppress warning displays (warning screens) or a second set of setting screens that suppresses warning displays (warning screens). The setting screen display process will be described later.

[0067] [1.4.2 Flow of the settings screen display process] First, the control unit 100 executes the first setting module from the setting module storage area 1120 (S142). Here, the control unit 100 determines whether it is user mode or dealer mode and executes the setting modules in the order set in Figure 4(a) above. Next, the control unit 100 displays the setting screen on the display unit 140 based on the executed setting modules (S144).

[0068] Next, the control unit 100 determines that an event has occurred that will cause a warning screen to be displayed (S146). If the control unit 100 determines that the event has occurred, it determines whether or not the initial setup is being performed in user mode (S146; Yes → S148). If the initial setup is being performed in user mode, the control unit 100 displays, for example, a warning screen (first settings screen) corresponding to the event (S148; Yes → S150).

[0069] On the other hand, if the control unit 100 does not determine that an event has occurred (S146; No), or if the initial setup is being performed in dealer mode instead of user mode (S148; No), it determines whether there are any unexecuted configuration modules (S152). If there are unexecuted configuration modules, the control unit 100, for example, if the first configuration module was being executed, executes the second configuration module in order if there is a second configuration module (S152; Yes → S142). If there are no more unexecuted configuration modules that can be executed, the control unit 100 terminates the process (S152; No). In other words, the control unit 100, for example, displays a warning screen in user mode, but suppresses the display so that a warning screen is not displayed in dealer mode.

[0070] In this embodiment, the control unit 100 determines when an event occurs that triggers a warning screen, and if it is in user mode, it displays the warning screen as the first setting screen on the display unit 140. However, it may also display the screen in the event of other events. For example, the control unit 100 may determine when an event occurs that triggers an initial approval request screen, and if it is in user mode, it may display the initial approval request screen as the first setting screen on the display unit 140.

[0071] The control unit 100 may store the setting information set by the user operator or service operator on the setting screen in the setting information storage area 1110 when the setting screen display process is completed, or when each setting module is completed. Furthermore, if an external storage device 20 is connected, the control unit 100 may store the setting information in the additional file 2120 of the external storage device 20 when each setting module is completed, or when the setting screen display process is completed in the setting information storage area 1110.

[0072] [1.5 Example of Operation] Figure 7 shows an example of the operation of the image forming apparatus 10 in this embodiment. Figures 7(a) and 7(b) show the operation of the warning screen (first setting screen) displayed on the display unit 140 of the image forming apparatus 10 when the initial setup of the image forming apparatus 10 is performed in user mode.

[0073] The display screen W100 in Figure 7(a) shows the message M100, "Please insert the toner cartridge," and an OK button B100. When the user inserts the toner cartridge according to the message and then selects the OK button B100, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W102 in Figure 7(b) on the display unit 140.

[0074] The display screen W102 in Figure 7(b) shows the message M102, "Please set the developing unit," and the OK button B100. When the user sets the developing unit according to the message and then selects the OK button B100, the control unit 100 displays the next setting module to be executed, such as a language setting screen, on the display unit 140.

[0075] On the other hand, if an external storage device 20 containing a specific encrypted file 2110 is connected to the image forming apparatus 10 and the initial setup is performed in dealer mode, the control unit 100 suppresses the display of Figures 7(a) and 7(b). For example, when a service worker sets the toner cartridge or developing unit, the control unit 100 displays a second setting screen, such as remote firmware update settings, on the display unit 140.

[0076] Thus, when a user performs the initial setup, all warning screens will be displayed, such as the toner not installed, the developer unit not installed (if not installed in the packaging), and the paper set for patch printing. On the other hand, when a dealer (service technician) performs the initial setup, these warning screens will not be displayed, and only the minimum necessary notification screens for initial adjustments will be shown (for example, a settings screen notifying the user to set the toner, developer unit, and paper).

[0077] Therefore, detailed warnings and procedures are displayed to user operators to prevent errors, while dealers (service operators) can complete the installation process with the fewest possible screen operations without unnecessary warnings or approval request screens. In addition, warning screens for items that need to be set during initial installation can be hidden, eliminating the need to press the OK button each time, thus shortening the initial installation time.

[0078] Furthermore, although this embodiment uses the initial setup as an example, it can also be applied to reconfiguration, such as changing settings, after the initial setup is complete. The control unit 100 can, for example, suppress the warning screen that requests the original administrator password when a dealer (service worker) changes the setting information, and execute the setting information change process without requiring the original administrator password to be entered.

[0079] Furthermore, while maintaining the ability to determine whether or not initial setup is being performed, the system can also control whether the initial setup (initial setup screen) warning screen is switched based on the state of the image forming apparatus 10 when the initial setup is initiated, determining whether it is a dealer (service worker) operation or a user operation.

[0080] [1.6 Effects, etc.] According to this embodiment, when a service worker performs the initial setup, even if an event requiring a warning screen occurs, it is possible to suppress the display of such a screen without displaying it. This minimizes the number of displays shown to the service worker. This provides an information processing device that allows both service workers familiar with initial setup procedures and user operators who are using the information processing device for the first time to perform the initial setup smoothly.

[0081] Furthermore, it eliminates the need to differentiate between initial installation by service technicians and user technicians depending on the model, and dealers are no longer required to perform complex management tasks such as model management.

[0082] [2. Second Embodiment] The second embodiment will now be described. The second embodiment is an embodiment in which, when it is determined that an event has occurred that will display a warning screen, an alternative screen (second setting screen) can be displayed instead of the warning screen (first setting screen) in the case of dealer mode.

[0083] The second embodiment will omit explanations of parts where the hardware and software configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment, and will focus on explaining the differences from the first embodiment.

[0084] [2.1 Processing Flow] The following describes the processing flow in this embodiment. Figure 8 is a diagram showing the processing flow for displaying the settings screen. Figure 8 is a replacement for Figure 6 of the first embodiment, and S242 to S244 are executed after S148.

[0085] First, if the initial setup is performed in dealer mode rather than user mode, the control unit 100 determines whether an alternative screen is stored in the currently running setting module (S148; No → S242). If an alternative screen is stored in the setting module, the control unit 100 displays the alternative screen as the second setting screen on the display unit 140 (S242; Yes → S244). If no alternative screen is stored, the control unit 100 determines whether there is a next module (S242; No → S152).

[0086] Here, the control unit 100 may, for example, display an alternative screen in which a part of the screen has been replaced as the second setting screen, or it may display an alternative screen in which the entire display screen has been replaced as the second setting screen. Furthermore, the control unit 100 may, for example, not have to display content on the alternative screen that corresponds to the content of the warning screen or the initial approval request screen, or it may replace multiple first setting screens together with one second setting screen.

[0087] [2.2 Example of Operation] Figures 9, 10, 11, 12, and 13 show an example of the operation of the image forming apparatus 10 in this embodiment. In this embodiment, as an example, the initial setup is performed in the form of a wizard, the first set of settings screens is displayed in user mode, and the second set of settings screens is displayed in dealer mode.

[0088] [2.2.1 Initial setup using user mode] Figures 9 to 12 show an example of the operation in which the first set of setting screens is displayed on the display unit 140 of the image forming apparatus 10 when the initial setup is performed in user mode. Note that Figures 9 to 12 include some setting screens that are common to dealer mode.

[0089] Figure 9(a) shows an example of a settings screen displayed on the display unit 140 when, for example, the OK button B100 is selected on the display screen W102 in Figure 7(b). The display screen W200 in Figure 9(a) displays the message M200, which reads "Preparing the imaging unit," and the message M202, which reads, "Preparing the imaging unit. This may take up to approximately 2 minutes. Please wait without turning off the power." The control unit 100 displays the display screen W202 in Figure 9(b) on the display unit 140 when the imaging unit preparation process is complete.

[0090] The display screen W202 in Figure 9(b) shows the message M204, which reads "Image quality adjustment," and the message M206, which reads, "Image quality adjustment is in progress. This may take up to approximately 1 minute. Please wait." When the image quality adjustment process is complete, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W210 in Figure 9(c) on the display unit 140.

[0091] The display screen W210 in Figure 9(c) shows a message M210 that says "Setting the display language," a language selection area R210 where the language can be selected, and a Next button B210. When the user operator selects the Next button B210, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W220 in Figure 9(d) on the display unit 140.

[0092] The display screen W220 in Figure 9(d) shows the message M220, which reads "Starting initial setup", the message M222, which reads "Starting initial setup. If you turn off the power before it is complete, you will need to start over from the beginning", and the Next button B220 and the Back button B222. If the user operator selects the Next button B220, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W230 in Figure 10(a) on the display unit 140. On the other hand, if the user operator selects the Back button B222, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W210 in Figure 9(c) on the display unit 140.

[0093] The display screen W230 in Figure 10(a) shows the message M230 "Enter administrator password," the message M232 "Please enter the password according to the creation rules," the administrator password input form F230, the administrator password confirmation form F232, the next button B230, and the back button B232. When the user enters the administrator password into the administrator password input form F230 and the administrator password confirmation form F232 and selects the next button B230, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W232 in Figure 10(b) on the display unit 140. On the other hand, when the user selects the back button B232, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W220 in Figure 9(d) on the display unit 140.

[0094] The display screen W232 in Figure 10(b) shows the message M234, which reads "Enter User Password," the message M236, which reads "Please enter the password according to the creation rules," the user password input form F234, the user password confirmation form F236, the next button B230, and the back button B232. When the user enters their user password into the user password input form F234 and the user password confirmation form F236 and selects the next button B230, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W240 in Figure 10(c) on the display unit 140. On the other hand, when the user selects the back button B232, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W230 in Figure 10(a) on the display unit 140.

[0095] The display screen W240 in Figure 10(c) shows the message M240 "Firmware Update Settings", the area R240 for setting firmware update settings, the Next button B242, and the Back button B244. Furthermore, the Help icon B240 is displayed in area R240. If the user operator selects the Help icon B240, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W242 in Figure 10(d) on the display unit 140. On the other hand, if the user operator selects the Next button B242, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W244 in Figure 11(a) on the display unit 140. Also, if the user operator selects the Back button B244, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W232 in Figure 10(b) on the display unit 140.

[0096] Here, "icon" refers to various data and processing functions displayed on the screen, such as pictures, emojis, symbols, or characters. When a user selects an icon, the control unit 100 can execute the process set for that icon.

[0097] The display screen W242 in Figure 10(d) shows the message M242, which reads "Automatic Mode (Recommended)," the message M244, which reads "Firmware updates will be performed automatically at the set time. Note: The machine must be connected to the internet to use this service," and the close button B246. If the user operator selects the close button B246, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W240 in Figure 10(c) on the display unit 140.

[0098] The display screen W244 in Figure 11(a) shows the message M246, which reads "Firmware Update Service Terms of Use," the firmware update service terms of use display area R242, the consent form F240, the next button B242, and the back button B244. If the user selects the consent form F240 and then the next button B242, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W250 in Figure 11(b) on the display unit 140. On the other hand, if the user selects the back button B244, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W240 in Figure 10(c) on the display unit 140.

[0099] The display screen W250 in Figure 11(b) shows the message "Network Settings" M250, the area R250 for setting network settings, and the OK button B250. When the user selects the OK button B250, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W260 in Figure 11(c) on the display unit 140.

[0100] The display screen W260 in Figure 11(c) shows the message M260, "Please load A4 or letter-sized paper," and the OK button B260. When the user loads A4 or letter-sized paper into the paper cassette or manual feed tray and selects the OK button B260, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W262 shown in Figure 11(d) on the display unit 140.

[0101] The display screen W262 in Figure 11(d) shows the message M262, "Patch printing in progress. Please place the printed result on the document glass," and the OK button B260. When the user places the printed patch on the document glass and selects the OK button B260, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W264 in Figure 12(a) on the display unit 140.

[0102] The display screen W264 in Figure 12(a) shows the message M264 "Scanning in progress" and the OK button B260. When the user selects the OK button B260 after the scan is complete, if the adjustment is complete, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W270 in Figure 12(b) on the display unit 140. If the adjustment is insufficient, the display screen W260 in Figure 11(c) is displayed again on the display unit 140.

[0103] The display screen W270 in Figure 12(b) shows the message M270, which reads "Initial setup complete," the message M272, which reads "All settings are complete. You can now use the main functions. Press [Finish] to finish. The machine will then automatically restart. Please wait without turning off the power," and the finish button B270 and the back button B272. If the user operator selects the finish button B270, the control unit 100 performs a restart and then displays the home screen, which is a function selection screen for selecting functions of the image forming apparatus 10, on the display unit 140 as the initial screen. On the other hand, if the user operator selects the back button B272, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W250 in Figure 11(b) on the display unit 140.

[0104] [2.2.2 Initial setup using dealer mode] Figure 13 shows an example of the operation in which the display unit 140 of the image forming apparatus 10 displays an alternative screen (second setting screen) as a second set screen group when the initial setup is performed in dealer mode.

[0105] Figure 13(a) shows an example of an alternative screen (second setting screen) that is displayed on the display unit 140 instead of the warning screens (first setting screens) such as the display screen W100 in Figure 7(a) and the display screen W102 in Figure 7(b) when the initial setup is performed in dealer mode. The display screen W222 in Figure 13(a) shows the message M224, "Press OK when the initial supply setup is complete. Initial operation will begin," and the OK button B226. When a service worker sets the toner cartridge and the developing unit and selects the OK button B226, the control unit 100 performs the processing of preparing the imaging unit and adjusting the image quality in the background, and after the processing is complete, the display screen W240 in Figure 10(c) is displayed on the display unit 140.

[0106] In dealer mode, the help icon B240 is disabled on the display screen W240 in Figure 10(c). If the service technician selects the next button B242, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W246 in Figure 13(b) on the display unit 140. On the other hand, if the service technician selects the back button B244, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W222 in Figure 13(a) on the display unit 140.

[0107] Figure 13(b) shows an example of an alternative screen (second setting screen) displayed on the display unit 140 instead of the initial approval request screen (first setting screen) W244 in Figure 11(a). The display screen W246 in Figure 13(b) displays the message M248 "Remote Operation Settings", the area R244 for setting remote operation settings, and the OK button B246. When the service worker selects the OK button B246, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W266 in Figure 13(c) on the display unit 140. In this way, by displaying an alternative screen, it is possible to switch the items that the image forming apparatus 10 sets.

[0108] Figure 13(c) shows an example of an alternative screen (second setting screen) displayed on the display unit 140 instead of a warning screen (first setting screen) such as the display screen W260 in Figure 11(c), the display screen W262 in Figure 11(d), and the display screen W264 in Figure 12(a). The display screen W266 in Figure 13(c) displays the message M266, "Image quality adjustment will be performed. Set the printed patch on the OC and press the OK button," and the OK button B260. When a service worker sets the printed patch on the document glass (OC: Original Cover) and selects the OK button B260, if the adjustment is complete, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W210 in Figure 9(c) on the display unit 140. On the other hand, if the adjustment is insufficient, the display screen W266 in Figure 13(c) is displayed again on the display unit 140.

[0109] Thus, in user mode, displaying warning screens individually requires selecting the OK button or similar each time to dismiss them, but it helps prevent setting errors during initial setup. On the other hand, in dealer mode, displaying warning screens individually is suppressed, and an alternative screen that displays them all together is shown, thus reducing the time required for the work.

[0110] Furthermore, in user mode, the control unit 100 can display a first settings screen that shows help for terms that are difficult for the user to understand, such as "OC" and "Automatic Mode," or replaces "OC" with a term that the user can understand, such as "Document Table." On the other hand, in dealer mode, the control unit 100 can display a second settings screen as an alternative screen that displays terms that are difficult for the user to understand as they are, without showing help or other information. In this way, it is possible to display information in a way that is appropriate to the difference in the operator's knowledge and experience between user mode and dealer mode.

[0111] Furthermore, while remote firmware updates and other settings can be configured in both user mode and dealer mode, for example, user mode displays an initial approval request screen where users individually approve the terms of service, whereas dealer mode can display an alternative screen that allows for batch approval, thus minimizing the amount of information displayed to the dealer (service worker).

[0112] [2.3 Effects, etc.] For service workers, the control unit 100 can minimize the display to the service worker by displaying a second setting screen, such as an alternative screen, instead of a first setting screen, such as a warning screen or an initial approval request screen. While setting screens related to image quality adjustment need to be displayed sequentially for user operators to prevent errors, service workers are familiar with the process and only need to be shown detailed information about adjustment problems at the minimum necessary timing (such as when scanning starts after printing), which can improve the efficiency of the installation work.

[0113] Service technicians will no longer find the display of settings screens cumbersome, and the time required for initial setup will also be reduced. Furthermore, settings that only service technicians need to configure, such as remote control settings, can now be set during the initial setup.

[0114] [3. Third Embodiment] The third embodiment will now be described. The third embodiment is an embodiment in which initial setup can be performed in dealer mode by combinations of the states of the image forming apparatus 10 or by changes in the state of the apparatus.

[0115] The third embodiment will omit explanations of parts where the hardware and software configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment, and will focus on explaining the differences from the first embodiment.

[0116] [3.1 Processing Flow] The following describes the processing flow in this embodiment. Figure 14 is a diagram showing the main processing flow. Figure 14 is a replacement for Figure 5 of the first embodiment, and S302 is executed between S102 and S112.

[0117] The control unit 100 determines whether or not it has detected the state of the device that activates dealer mode (S302). Here, the state of the device that activates dealer mode may be a pre-set combination of patterns, for example, a pattern such as pulling out tray 1 and opening and closing the front door three times. In this case, the control unit may determine the state of the device that activates dealer mode when the pattern matches. Note that the combination of states of the device that activates dealer mode and changes in the state of the device may be judged in two or more stages to prevent accidental activation.

[0118] [3.2 Example of Operation] The operation of the image forming apparatus 10 in this embodiment will now be described. When a service worker pulls out the tray 1 of the image forming apparatus 10 and opens and closes the front door three times, the control unit 100 does not display Figures 7(a) and 7(b) on the display unit 140 and starts the initial setup in dealer mode.

[0119] By pre-configuring various combinations of states of the image forming apparatus 10 and changes in the apparatus state before the initial setup is initiated, the system can determine the difference in the changes in the apparatus state at the first startup and differentiate between whether the initial setup is performed by a user or a dealer (service worker). As a result, service workers can initiate the initial setup in dealer mode simply by operating the image forming apparatus 10 before the initial setup is initiated, eliminating the need to carry the external storage device 20.

[0120] [4. Fourth Embodiment] The fourth embodiment will now be described. The fourth embodiment is one in which, if the initial installation is interrupted (for example, by a power outage), the initial installation can be resumed from where it left off if it is in dealer mode.

[0121] The fourth embodiment will omit explanations of parts where the hardware and software configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment, and will focus on explaining the differences from the first embodiment.

[0122] [4.1 Processing Flow] The processing flow in this embodiment will be explained below using Figures 15 and 16. Figure 15 is a diagram showing the main processing flow, and Figure 16 is a diagram showing the setting screen display processing flow. Figure 15 replaces Figure 5 of the first embodiment, and executes S402 and S404 between S110 and S112. Figure 16 replaces Figure 6 of the first embodiment, and executes S442 and S444 after S152.

[0123] [4.1.1 Main Processing Flow] If the control unit 100 determines that the expiration date of the specific encrypted file 2110 has not passed, it determines whether or not the additional file 2120 is stored in the external storage device 20 (S110; No → S402). If the control unit 100 determines that the additional file 2120 is stored, it reads the setting information from the additional file 2120 and resumes the initial setup from where it left off (S402; Yes → S404). Here, the control unit 100 can, for example, read the setting screen information that was displayed on the display unit 140 before the interruption, which is stored in the additional file 2120, and display it on the display unit 140. On the other hand, if the control unit 100 determines that the additional file 2120 is not stored, it sets the initial setup to be performed in dealer mode (S402; No → S112).

[0124] [4.1.2 Flow of the settings screen display process] If the control unit 100 determines that there are any unexecuted setting modules, it determines whether the initial setup is being performed in dealer mode (S152; No → S442). If the control unit 100 determines that the initial setup is being performed in dealer mode, it stores the setting information set on the setting screen in the additional file 2120 (S442; Yes → S444). Here, the control unit 100 can, for example, store the information of the setting screen displayed on the display unit 140 in the additional file 2120. On the other hand, if the control unit 100 determines that the initial setup is not being performed in dealer mode, it executes the next setting module (S442; No → S142).

[0125] [4.2 Example of Operation] The operation of the image forming apparatus 10 in this embodiment will now be described. A service worker connected the external storage device 20 to the image forming apparatus 10 and began the initial setup. Next, the service worker needed to interrupt the initial setup, so he turned off the power and stopped the work (power off). At this time, the display screen W240 shown in Figure 10(c) was displayed on the display unit 140 as the remote firmware update setting screen.

[0126] Next, the service worker connected the external storage device 20 to the image forming apparatus 10 and restarted the initial setup. The control unit 100 displayed the display screen W240 shown in Figure 10(c) on the display unit 140 and resumed the initial setup in dealer mode.

[0127] Thus, if the initial setup is interrupted, dealer mode eliminates the need to start over from the beginning. For example, even if the power is cut off during work due to unforeseen circumstances, the impact on service workers is minimized, improving the efficiency of the initial setup process.

[0128] In this embodiment, the additional file 2120 is stored in the external storage device 20, but it may also be stored in the storage device 110, for example. The control unit 100 may read the configuration information from the additional file stored in the storage device 110 and execute a process that does not execute the configuration module corresponding to the configuration information and does not display the configured configuration screen. For example, even if a user performs the initial installation before the service worker and the process is interrupted, the control unit 100 will not display the configuration screen set by the user to the service worker when the initial installation is resumed, thus shortening the service worker's initial installation time. Conversely, if a service worker performs part of the initial installation and the user performs the remaining initial installation after handing over the equipment, the control unit 100 will not display the configuration screen executed by the service worker to the user, thus facilitating a smoother initial installation after handover to the user.

[0129] Furthermore, for example, in the event of a power outage during the process, the system may be able to choose to resume by remembering the settings information from before the power outage, discard the settings information and start over from the beginning, or determine whether to be in user mode or dealer mode again, but not display the completed settings. The control unit 100, for example, when the initial installation is started, displays a settings screen where the user can select to resume, start over, or start over for any missing parts, and stores the service worker's selection of resume, start over, or start over for any missing parts in the additional file 2120. The control unit 100 reads the additional file 2120 and executes the initial installation resumption process based on the service worker's selection.

[0130] [5. Variant] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible. In other words, embodiments obtained by combining technical means that are appropriately modified within the scope of this disclosure are also included in the technical scope.

[0131] Furthermore, although the embodiments described above are explained separately for the sake of explanation, they can be combined and implemented to the extent possible. In addition, we intend to obtain rights to any of the technologies described in this specification through amendments or divisional applications.

[0132] Furthermore, in each embodiment, the program that operates in each device is a program that controls the CPU, etc. (a program that makes the computer function) in order to realize the functions of the embodiments described above. The information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (for example, RAM) during processing, and then stored in a storage device such as various ROMs or HDDs, and read, modified, and written by the CPU as needed.

[0133] Here, the recording medium for storing the program may be any of the following: semiconductor media (e.g., ROM or non-volatile memory card), optical recording medium or magneto-optical recording medium (e.g., DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), CD (Compact Disc), BD (Blu-ray® Disc)), magnetic recording medium (e.g., magnetic tape, flexible disk), etc.

[0134] Furthermore, when distributing the program to the market, it can be stored on a portable recording medium and distributed, or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the storage device of the server device is, of course, also included in this disclosure.

[0135] Furthermore, the data mentioned above may not be stored within the device itself, but rather stored on an external device and retrieved as needed. For example, the data may be stored on a NAS (Network Attached Storage) or on the cloud.

[0136] Furthermore, the scope of this disclosure is not limited to the configurations explicitly described in the specification, but also includes combinations of the technologies disclosed herein. While the configurations for which patent protection is sought are described in the attached claims, there is no intention to exclude them from the technical scope simply because they are not described in the claims.

[0137] Furthermore, the phrases "in the case of..." and "when..." in the above-mentioned specification are explained as examples only, and do not represent a configuration limited to those described. Even for configurations other than those described, we disclose information that would be obvious to a person skilled in the art, and we intend to acquire rights to such information.

[0138] Furthermore, the descriptions of the processes and data flows described in the specification are not limited to the order in which they are described. For example, configurations in which parts of the process are deleted or the order is rearranged are also disclosed, and the company intends to acquire rights to them.

[0139] Furthermore, although the functions described in the embodiments are explained as being performed by each device, they may also be implemented by a single device or by utilizing an external server.

[0140] Furthermore, each functional block or feature of the apparatus used in the embodiments described above may be implemented or executed by an electrical circuit, such as an integrated circuit or a plurality of integrated circuits. An electrical circuit designed to perform the functions described herein may include a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device, discrete gates or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or a combination thereof. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, a conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. The aforementioned electrical circuit may consist of digital circuits or analog circuits. Also, if advances in semiconductor technology lead to the emergence of integrated circuit technologies that replace current integrated circuits, one or more aspects of this disclosure may use new integrated circuits based on such technologies. [Explanation of symbols]

[0141] 10 Image forming apparatus 20 External storage device 100 Control Unit 110 storage 120 ROM 130 RAM 140 Display section 150 Operation section 160 Image forming unit 165 Image reading unit 170 Communications Department 180 I / F section

Claims

1. Display unit and A state detection unit for detecting the state of the information processing device, An event determination unit that determines the occurrence of an event requiring the display of a warning screen, Control unit and Equipped with, The control unit, The display unit displays a settings screen that enables display according to the event, If the event determination unit determines that an event requiring the display of the warning screen has occurred, the display unit suppresses the display of the warning screen based on the state of the information processing device detected by the state detection unit. Information processing device.

2. The aforementioned setting screen further includes a storage unit that stores a first set of setting screens and a second set of setting screens. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit displays on the display unit a second set of setting screens in which the display of the warning screen included in the first set of setting screens is suppressed, based on the state of the information processing apparatus detected by the state detection unit.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the control unit displays the second set of setting screens, which suppresses the display of the initial approval request screen included in the first set of setting screens, on the display unit.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the control unit displays an alternative screen different from the first set screen group, and the display unit displays the second set screen group.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the control unit displays on the display unit a second set of setting screens, which is a combination of one or more setting screens from the first set of setting screens, including a setting screen that suppresses the display of the warning screen, a setting screen that suppresses the display of the initial approval request screen, and a setting screen that displays an alternative screen different from the first set of setting screens.

6. The state detection unit detects that an external storage device storing a specific file is connected, The control unit suppresses the display of the warning screen if the specific file is stored in the external storage device. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

7. The state detection unit detects the open / closed state of the door, the paper loading state, and the switch state of the information processing device. The control unit suppresses the display of the warning screen if the state of the information processing device detected by the state detection unit is a specific combination. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

8. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the control unit, when the setting of the information processing apparatus is terminated midway, stores the setting screen of the second group of setting screens displayed on the display unit in the storage unit, and when the setting of the information processing apparatus is resumed, displays the setting screen stored in the storage unit on the display unit and resumes the process.

9. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the control unit stores in the storage unit the processing performed in the setting of the information processing apparatus when the setting of the information processing apparatus is terminated midway, and when the setting of the information processing apparatus is resumed, it displays the setting screen related to the processing stored in the storage unit without displaying it.

10. Display step, A state detection step for detecting the state of the information processing device, An event determination step that determines the occurrence of an event that requires the display of a warning screen, In the aforementioned display step, a settings screen is displayed that enables display according to the event. If the event determination step determines that an event requiring the display of the warning screen has occurred, then the display step includes a control step to suppress the display of the warning screen based on the state of the information processing device detected in the state detection step. Display methods that include this.

Images