Information processing device and information processing system

Abstract

By ensuring users are aware of the ancillary services, it becomes possible to provide those services in line with their intentions. [Solution] The information processing device (10) is equipped with a display 14 and provides a predetermined service and ancillary services associated with the predetermined service to the user. The information processing device (10) accepts user operations via a GUI (Graphical User Interface) displayed on the display 14. Multiple operation screens are displayed on the display 14. Two or more of the multiple operation screens include a notification unit 166 for providing notifications regarding ancillary services.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus and an information processing system, and more particularly, for example, to an information processing apparatus and an information processing system that provide a user with a predetermined service and an accompanying service associated with the predetermined service.

Background Art

[0002] An example of this type of background art is disclosed in Patent Document 1. The image forming apparatus in the background art can provide a receipt issuing service, and receives an instruction on whether to output a receipt before a user inputs setting conditions related to the service, that is, at a stage before causing the image forming apparatus to provide a function.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the image forming apparatus of the background art, since the user is only allowed to select once whether to output a receipt at a stage before causing the image forming apparatus to provide a function, the user may make a wrong selection or forget the selection, resulting in not conforming to the user's intention. That is, there may be a case where an accompanying service along with the user's intention cannot be performed.

[0005] Therefore, the main object of the present invention is to provide a novel information processing apparatus and an information processing system.

[0006] Another object of the present invention is to provide an information processing apparatus and an information processing system that can surely recognize an accompanying service and perform an accompanying service along with the user's intention. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The first embodiment is an information processing device that cooperates with an image forming apparatus, which has an image reading unit located above the paper discharge space for discharging printed materials and an image forming unit located below it. The information processing device comprises a display having a touch panel and capable of displaying a receipt issuance button, a receipt paper discharge unit for issuing receipts, and a control unit. The receipt paper discharge unit is located below the display and within the vertical height range of the paper discharge space of the image forming apparatus. After the image forming apparatus has discharged printed materials into the paper discharge space, the control unit displays a screen on the display to notify the user that a receipt is being printed, in response to the operation of the receipt issuance button displayed on the display. When a receipt is issued, the display shows the appearance of the image forming apparatus and the information processing device, along with a screen to prevent the user from forgetting to take the receipt.

[0008] The second embodiment is an information processing apparatus dependent on the first embodiment, wherein the receipt paper output unit is arranged in a direction that discharges printed material in the paper output space of the image forming apparatus.

[0009] According to this invention, ancillary services can be reliably recognized and ancillary services can be provided in accordance with the user's intentions.

[0010] The aforementioned objectives, other objectives, features, and advantages of this invention will become even clearer from the following detailed description of embodiments with reference to the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is an illustrative diagram showing the external configuration of an information processing system, which is one embodiment of this invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the information processing device shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the image forming apparatus shown in Figure 1. [Figure 4]FIG. 4 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of a home screen. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of a color setting screen. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of a paper setting screen. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of a guidance screen. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of a preview screen. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of a final setting screen. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of an execution notification screen. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of a completion notification screen. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of a receipt print notification screen. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of a lost item notification screen. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of the memory map of the RAM of the information processing apparatus shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of the memory map of the RAM of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the information processing of the CPU shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of a destination setting screen in the second embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of a result table print setting screen in the second embodiment.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0012] [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing system 100 of this invention. Referring to this FIG. 1, the information processing system 100 according to the first embodiment of this invention includes an information processing apparatus 10 and an image forming apparatus 70.

[0013] The information processing device 10 is a multimedia kiosk (MMK) terminal installed in stores such as supermarkets, restaurants, or convenience stores, as well as public facilities such as train stations, bus terminals, airports, government offices, or libraries. This information processing device 10 provides various information or predetermined services (functions) to users according to the location where it is installed. Also, although details will be described later, the information processing device 10 can also cooperate with the image forming device 70 to provide users with predetermined services (main services) such as copying, printing, scanning, and faxing.

[0014] In this specification, the front-back direction (depth direction) of the information processing device 10 and its constituent members is defined with the surface facing the user's standing position, that is, the surface on which the display 14 described later is provided, as the front (front face). The left-right direction (lateral direction) of the information processing device 10 and its constituent members is defined based on the state of viewing the information processing device 10 from the user. The same applies to the image forming device 70.

[0015] The information processing device 10 includes a device main body 28 that includes a display 14 with a touch panel 12, a storage medium connection part 16, a paper printer 18, a code reading part 20, a short-range communication part 22, a currency processing part 24, and a photo printer 26.

[0016] The display 14 with the touch panel 12 is arranged at the upper end of the information processing device 10 (device main body 28). The touch panel 12 is a general-purpose touch panel, and any method such as a capacitance method, an electromagnetic induction method, a resistive film method, an infrared method, etc. can be used. In this first embodiment, as the touch panel 12, a capacitance-type touch panel is used, and the touch panel 12 is provided on the display surface of the display 14. However, a touch panel display in which the touch panel 12 and the display 14 are integrally formed may also be used. Also, as the display 14, for example, an LCD or an EL (Electro-Luminescence) display can be used.

[0017] The display 14 with a touch panel 12 displays software keys (operation keys) and the like for accepting user input. Software keys refer to keys (icons) that are, for example, software-reproduced on the display surface of the display 14 with the touch panel 12.

[0018] The storage medium connection section 16 includes mounting sections (e.g., a drive and a memory slot) for mounting various storage media. These storage media include optical discs (e.g., CD-R, DVD-R, and BD-R) and flash memory (e.g., USB memory, SD memory card, and Memory Stick). However, optical discs are mounted in the drive, and flash memory is mounted in the memory slot.

[0019] The paper printer 18 (third image forming unit) is, for example, a thermal printer or a dot matrix printer, and issues paper slips on which images such as receipts, invoices, journals, or coupons are printed. Specifically, the paper printer 18 prints various strings of characters, images, code patterns (such as barcodes) on roll paper and discharges the printed paper slips from the paper discharge unit 18a.

[0020] The code reading unit 20 includes, for example, a laser scanner or a camera, and can read codes attached to products, cards, receipts, etc., or codes displayed on the screen of a user terminal (mobile terminal). Codes that can be read by the code reading unit 20 include barcodes (one-dimensional barcodes) or two-dimensional codes (for example, QR code (registered trademark), micro QR code, DataMATRIX, MaxiCODE, and VeriCODE).

[0021] The near-field communication unit 22 performs wireless, contactless data communication with a communication target such as an IC card (identity card, membership card, or employee ID card, etc.) or a user terminal, in accordance with communication standards such as ISO / IEC 18092 (so-called NFC (Near Field Communication)). The communication range of the near-field communication unit 22 is approximately a few centimeters to a few meters. The near-field communication unit 22 transmits a signal (read command) to the communication target instructing it to read data stored in the communication target. In response to the read command, the communication target transmits the desired data to the near-field communication unit 22. The near-field communication unit 22 also transmits a signal (write command) instructing it to write data (write data) to the communication target. In accordance with the write command, the communication target writes (stores) the received write data to the storage unit of the communication target.

[0022] The currency processing unit 24 includes a currency input unit 24a and a coin return slot 24b. The currency input unit 24a includes a coin slot, a banknote slot, and a change return lever, etc., and is located below the short-range communication unit 22. Coins inserted through the coin slot and banknotes inserted through the banknote slot are sorted by type and stored in a predetermined currency storage unit (not shown). The currency storage unit includes a storage unit for coins and a storage unit for banknotes. When coins or banknotes are inserted, the amount inserted is calculated according to the types and number of coins stored in the coin storage unit and the types and number of banknotes stored in the banknote storage unit. When a predetermined service is performed in the information processing unit 10, the cost corresponding to the content of that service is deducted from the amount inserted, and the remaining balance of the inserted amount is calculated. Also, when the change return lever is operated, coins or banknotes are returned according to the remaining balance of the inserted amount. However, coins are returned from the coin return slot 24b located below the coin slot 24a, and banknotes are returned from the banknote slot.

[0023] The photo printer 26 (second image forming unit) is, for example, a dye-sublimation printer or an inkjet printer, and prints images on photographic paper. The photographs printed by the photo printer 26 are ejected to the ejection unit 26a. However, the image data used to form the image on the paper is image data stored in a storage medium connected to the storage medium connection unit 16, or image data transmitted from an external computer. The size of the photographs printed by the photo printer 26 is L-size or 2L-size, etc.

[0024] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the information processing device 10 shown in Figure 1. Referring to Figure 2, the information processing device 10 includes a CPU 32. The CPU 32 is connected via a bus 60 to a RAM 34, ROM 36, touch panel control circuit 38, display control circuit 40, storage medium connection unit 16, paper printer 18, code reading unit 20, short-range communication unit 22, currency processing unit 24, photo printer 26, and communication circuit 44. A touch panel 12 is connected to the touch panel control circuit 38, and a display 14 is connected to the display control circuit 40.

[0025] The CPU 32 is responsible for the overall control of the information processing unit 10. The RAM 34 is used as the work area and buffer area for the CPU 32. The ROM 36 stores the startup program and default values ​​for various information of the information processing unit 10.

[0026] The touch panel control circuit 38 supplies the necessary voltages to the touch panel 12, detects touch operations (touch inputs) within the touch effective range of the touch panel 12, and outputs touch coordinate data indicating the position of the touch input to the CPU 32.

[0027] The display control circuit 40 includes a GPU and VRAM, and under the direction of the CPU 32, the GPU uses the image generation data stored in RAM 34 to generate display image data in VRAM for displaying various screens on the display 14, and outputs the generated display image data to the display 14.

[0028] The communication circuit 44 is a communication circuit for connecting to a network such as the Internet. This communication circuit 44 is either a wired communication circuit or a wireless communication circuit, and communicates with an external computer (external terminal) such as a server via the network according to instructions from the CPU 32. However, the communication circuit 44 can also communicate directly with the image forming apparatus 70 and user terminals, etc., via wired or wireless (for example, infrared, Wi-Fi®, or Bluetooth®) without going through a network.

[0029] Note that the electrical configuration of the information processing device 10 shown in Figure 2 is merely an example and is not limited to this configuration.

[0030] Returning to Figure 1, the image forming apparatus 70 is a multifunction device (MFP) that has functions such as copying, printing, scanning, and facsimile.

[0031] The image forming apparatus 70 comprises a main body 80 including an image reading unit 72, an image forming unit 74, a paper feeder 76, and a paper output tray 78. However, the image forming apparatus 70 is installed in the vicinity of the information processing device 10. For example, the image forming apparatus 70 is installed adjacent to the right side of the information processing device 10.

[0032] The image reading unit 72 is equipped with a document placement tray made of a transparent material and is built into the main body of the device 80. Above the document placement tray, a document holder cover 72a is attached via a hinge or the like so that it can be opened and closed.

[0033] The image reading unit 72 also includes a light source, multiple mirrors, an imaging lens, and a line sensor. The image reading unit 72 exposes the surface of the document with the light source and guides the reflected light from the document surface to the imaging lens using multiple mirrors. The imaging lens then images the reflected light onto the light-receiving element of the line sensor. The line sensor detects the brightness or chromaticity of the reflected light imaged onto the light-receiving element and generates read image data based on the image of the document surface. A CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or CIS (Contact Image Sensor) can be used as the line sensor.

[0034] The image forming unit 74 (first image forming unit) is built into the main body 80 of the device and is located below the image reading unit 72. This image forming unit 74 includes a photosensitive drum, a charging device, an exposure device, a developing device, a transfer device, and a fixing device. The image forming unit 74 forms an image on a recording medium (ordinary paper) transported from a paper feed device 76, etc., using an electrophotographic method, and discharges the image-formed paper into a paper output tray 78 located between the image reading unit 72 and the image forming unit 74. However, the image data (printed image data) used to form an image on the paper may be read image data read by the image reading unit 72, image data transmitted from the information processing device 10, or image data transmitted from an external computer (server, etc.).

[0035] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the image forming apparatus 70 shown in Figure 1. Referring to Figure 3, the image forming apparatus 70 includes a CPU 82. The CPU 82 is connected to a RAM 84, an HDD 86, an image reading unit 72, an image forming unit 74, and a communication circuit 92 via a bus 90.

[0036] The CPU 82 is responsible for the overall control of the image forming apparatus 70. The RAM 84 is used as the work area and buffer area for the CPU 82.

[0037] HDD86 is the main memory of the image forming apparatus 70, and appropriately stores control programs for the CPU 82 to control the operation of each part of the image forming apparatus 70, as well as display image data for various screens, etc. However, other non-volatile memory such as SSD, flash memory, or EEPROM may be used instead of or in conjunction with HDD86.

[0038] The communication circuit 92 is a communication circuit for connecting to a network such as the Internet. This communication circuit 92 is either a wired communication circuit or a wireless communication circuit, and communicates with an external computer such as a server via the network according to instructions from the CPU 82. However, the communication circuit 92 can also communicate directly with the information processing device 10 via wired or wireless connection without going through a network.

[0039] Note that the electrical configuration of the image forming apparatus 70 shown in Figure 3 is merely an example and is not limited to this configuration.

[0040] In an information processing system 100 with this configuration, the information processing device 10 accepts touch input (user operation) to the touch panel 12 via a GUI displayed on the display 14. Specifically, the information processing device 10 accepts user operation by displaying multiple operation screens on the display 14 for setting the operating conditions of the information processing system 100. In the information processing system 100 (information processing device 10 and image forming apparatus 70), the main service is executed according to the content set on each operation screen.

[0041] Furthermore, this information processing system 100 can provide users with ancillary services that are in addition to the main service. Examples of ancillary services include a receipt issuance service, a fax transmission result report printing service, and a lost item notification service.

[0042] In conventional information processing systems, for example, in a receipt issuance service, the system receives instructions on whether or not to print a receipt before the user inputs the settings for the main service, that is, before the image forming apparatus provides its functionality.

[0043] However, conventional information processing systems only ask the user once whether or not to print a receipt, which can lead to users making the wrong choice or forgetting to make a choice, resulting in the inability to provide ancillary services that align with the user's intentions.

[0044] Therefore, in this first embodiment, two or more of the operation screens displayed on the display 14 of the information processing device 10 include a notification unit for providing notifications regarding ancillary services.

[0045] The following describes specific operational examples of the information processing system 100 with reference to Figures 4 to 13. When the main power of the information processing device 10 and the image forming apparatus 70 is turned on and they are in a standby state where each function can be executed, the display 14 of the information processing device 10 displays the home screen 110 as shown in Figure 4. The home screen 110 is an operation screen for selecting the main service. This home screen 110 displays several keys 112 for selecting the main service provided by the information processing system 100.

[0046] Each of the multiple keys 112 is an image enclosed in a roughly rectangular frame and functions as a software key. Each of the multiple keys 112 has options such as "Copy", "Print from smartphone", The main services assigned to this system include "Print from recording media," "Fax," "Scan," "Photo and document printing," "Network printing," and "Administrative services."

[0047] The copy service includes services such as copying images of documents onto regular paper (regular copy service) and copying images of photographs onto photographic paper (photo copy service). The "Print from Smartphone" service is a print service that uses image data stored on a mobile device such as a smartphone, the "Print from Recording Media" service is a print service that uses image data stored on a storage medium, and the "Network Print" service is a print service that uses image data transmitted from an external computer (a server for the network print service). Furthermore, "Administrative Services" is a print service for printing administrative certificates. Each print service allows the user to select (specify) an image forming unit from among multiple image forming units (for example, an image forming unit 74 (first image forming unit) and a photo printer 26 (second image forming unit)) to print from. For example, a selection screen including selection keys for selecting an image forming unit to print from is displayed on the display 14 of the information processing device 10, that is, the user is presented with options for selecting an image forming unit to print from among multiple image forming units, and printing from the selected image forming unit becomes possible.

[0048] When key 112 is touched (operated) on the home screen 110, that is, when the main service is selected, the display 14 sequentially displays multiple operation screens for setting the operating conditions of the selected main service. The following explanation will use the case where the copy service is selected as an example.

[0049] When the key 112 assigned to the copy service is operated on the home screen 110 (the copy service is selected), the display 14 sequentially displays multiple operation screens (copy settings screens) for setting the operating conditions (copy conditions) of the copy service. For example, the display 14 displays a color settings screen 120 as shown in Figure 5. This color settings screen 120 is one of several operation screens for setting the operating conditions of the copy service, and is, for example, the first screen displayed.

[0050] The color settings screen 120 is a screen for setting the color mode (color conditions) in the copy service, and includes an exit key 120a, a transition key 120b, an operation guidance section 122, and a setting section 124.

[0051] The termination key 120a is an operation key used to terminate the provision of the service. When the termination key 120a is pressed, the settings made up to that point are reset, and the home screen 110 is displayed on the display 14. The same applies to the termination keys 130a, 140a, 150a, 160a, 170a, 200a, 210a, and 220a, which will be described later.

[0052] Transition key 120b is an operation key used to advance to the next operation screen (screen transition). When transition key 120b is pressed, the next operation screen after the one previously displayed is shown on display 14. The same applies to transition keys 130b, 140b, 150b, 160b, 180b, and 210b, which will be described later. However, depending on the type of operation screen, it may not be possible to proceed to the next operation screen unless the service operating conditions are set (selected). In this case, transition key 120b is disabled until the service operating conditions are set. Therefore, transition key 120b cannot be operated unless the service operating conditions are set.

[0053] The operation guidance unit 122 includes a message (notification text) and an indicator image. The message is provided to guide the user through the operation. The indicator image is an image intended to attract the user's attention to the operation guidance unit 122 and is displayed adjacent to the message. In addition, at least a portion of the indicator image is colored in a predetermined color that is different from the color of the parts other than the operation guidance unit 122 and the setting unit 124. These aspects of the operation guidance unit 122 are also the same for the operation guidance units 132, 142, 152, 162, 172, 192, 212, and 222, which will be described later.

[0054] On this color settings screen 120, a message prompting the user to select a color mode for the copy service is displayed on the operation guide unit 122, such as, "Please select a color type and press 'Next'."

[0055] The setting unit 124 is provided for setting the color conditions (color / black and white) in the copy service and includes multiple setting keys to which different color conditions (color / black and white) are assigned. The color conditions for the copy service are set when any of these setting keys are operated.

[0056] On the color settings screen 120, once the color conditions for the copy service are set, the transition key 120b is activated. When the activated transition key 120b is operated, the display 14 shows the paper settings screen 130, which is the next operation screen after the color settings screen 120, as shown in Figure 6.

[0057] The paper settings screen 130 is a screen for setting the size of the copy paper (paper size), and includes an exit key 130a, a transition key 130b, an operation guide section 132, and a setting section 134. On the paper settings screen 130, a message prompting the user to set the paper size is displayed in the operation guide section 132, for example, "Please select the paper size and press 'Next'."

[0058] The setting unit 134 is provided for setting the paper size and includes multiple setting keys to which different paper sizes such as B5, A4, B4, and A3 are assigned. The paper size is set when any of these setting keys is operated.

[0059] On the paper settings screen 130, once the paper size is set, the transition key 130b is activated. When the activated transition key 130b is operated, the display 14 shows the guidance screen 140, which is the next operation screen after the paper settings screen 130, as shown in Figure 7.

[0060] The guidance screen 140 is a screen for guiding users on how to set (place) the document, and includes an exit key 140a, a transition key 140b, an operation guidance section 142, and a guidance section 144.

[0061] On the guidance screen 140, a message prompting the user to properly set the document and start scanning is displayed on the operation guidance unit 142, such as, "Place the document horizontally and press 'Scan Document'." In addition, the guidance unit 144 displays a guidance image (still or moving image) to guide the user to place the document on the document tray in the correct position and orientation.

[0062] As described above, the guidance screen 140 is not a screen for setting the operating conditions of the service. For this reason, the transition key 140b is enabled from the beginning on the guidance screen 140. However, the transition key 130b is assigned the function of starting (executing) document scanning in addition to the function of proceeding to the next operation screen. In other words, the transition key 140b is also a scan start key for accepting the operation to start scanning a document. Therefore, when the transition key 140b is operated, document scanning starts, a scanned image read by the image reading unit 72 is generated, and the preview screen 150, which is the next operation screen after the guidance screen 140, is displayed on the display 14, as shown in Figure 8.

[0063] The preview screen 150 is a screen for checking the scanned image (or the printed image obtained by image processing the scanned image) based on the image on the surface of the original document, and includes an exit key 150a, a transition key 150b, an operation guide unit 152, a preview image display unit 154, and a rescan key 156.

[0064] On the preview screen 150, a message prompting confirmation of the scanned image data is displayed on the operation guide unit 152, such as, "If the scanned image is correct, please press 'Next'." The preview image display unit 154 displays an image (preview image) corresponding to the scanned image or printed image. The rescan key 156 is assigned the function of re-scanning the document. When the rescan key 156 is operated, the document scanning begins, and new image data scanned by the image scanning unit 72 is generated. At this time, the preview image displayed on the preview image display unit 154 switches (is updated) to the image corresponding to the latest scanned image.

[0065] As described above, the preview screen 150 is not a screen for setting the operating conditions of the service. For this reason, the transition key 150b is enabled from the beginning on the preview screen 150. When the transition key 150b is operated, the display 14 shows the final settings screen 160, which is the next operation screen after the preview screen 150, as shown in Figure 9.

[0066] The final settings screen 160 is used to determine the operating conditions for the main service and to confirm the operating conditions set in the previous operation screens. It includes an exit key 160a, a transition key 160b, an operation guidance section 162, a settings section 164, and a print settings section (receipt print settings section) 166.

[0067] On the final settings screen 160, a message prompting the user to confirm the operating conditions is displayed on the operation guide unit 162, such as, "Please check the contents, and if everything is correct, press 'Start'." Additionally, the settings unit 164 displays setting keys for setting the number of copies to print and the payment method.

[0068] The print settings unit 166 is provided to allow the user to select whether or not to print (output) a receipt in the receipt issuance service, which is an example of an ancillary service (receipt printing settings). In other words, the print settings unit 166 is an example of a selection unit that allows the user to select whether or not to print an ancillary document, and the print settings unit 166 is also an example of a notification unit that provides notifications regarding ancillary services.

[0069] The print setting unit 166 includes a first setting key 166a assigned to the setting of not printing receipts, and a second setting key 166b assigned to the setting of printing receipts. The receipt printing setting is determined (selected) by operating either the first setting key 166a or the second setting key 166b. However, the receipt printing setting is initially set to not print receipts (default setting). That is, in the initial setting, the first setting key 166a, which is assigned to the setting of not printing receipts, is selected. Furthermore, when switching to the next operation screen, the receipt printing setting selected on the previous operation screen is maintained. Therefore, if the second setting key 166b was selected on the previous operation screen, the second setting key 166b will be selected when switching to the next operation screen, and if the first setting key 166a was selected on the previous operation screen, the first setting key 166a will be selected when switching to the next operation screen. These matters relating to the print settings unit 166 also apply to the print settings units 176 and 186, which will be described later.

[0070] On the final settings screen 160, once the operating conditions set in the settings unit 164 are configured, that is, once all operating conditions for the main service are configured, the transition key 160b is activated. However, in addition to the function of proceeding to the next operation screen, the transition key 160b is also assigned the function of starting (executing) a job related to the main service (in the case of the copy service, a copy job) based on the configured operating conditions. In other words, the transition key 160b is also a start key for accepting the operation to start a copy job. Therefore, when the transition key 160b is operated, the copy job is started, and the execution notification screen 170, which is the next operation screen after the final settings screen 160, is displayed on the display 14, as shown in Figure 10.

[0071] The execution notification screen 170 is a screen for notifying the user that a job is in progress, and includes an exit key 170a, a guidance section 172, a print settings section 176, and a forgotten item reminder section 178. On the execution notification screen 170, a message indicating that a copy job is in progress is displayed in the guidance section 172, for example, "Copying in progress. Please wait."

[0072] The Lost Item Reminder Unit 178 is provided to remind the user not to forget any items (hereinafter referred to as "items requiring attention") that were used in the main service, including personal belongings (such as original documents) and output materials related to the main service (to prompt the user to retrieve the items requiring attention). For example, when the execution notification screen 170 is displayed, that is, when a copy job has already been executed, the use of the original document has ended. Therefore, the Lost Item Reminder Unit 178 displays a warning image (still or moving image) to remind the user not to forget the original document. The warning image also includes an external view of the information processing device 10 and the image forming apparatus 70, with the portion of the external view corresponding to the location of the items requiring attention being highlighted. For example, if the item is an original document, the portion corresponding to the document tray will be highlighted. The warning image also displays a message to remind the user not to forget the items requiring attention, such as "Please be careful not to forget your original document."

[0073] On the execution notification screen 170, once the job is completed, the system automatically proceeds to the next operation screen. For example, when a copy job is completed, the display 14 shows the completion notification screen 180, which is the next operation screen after the execution notification screen 170, as shown in Figure 11.

[0074] The completion notification screen 180 is a screen for notifying the user that a job has been completed, and includes an end key 180a, a guidance section 182, a continuation key 184, and a print settings section 186.

[0075] On the completion notification screen 180, a message indicating that the copy job has been completed is displayed on the operation guide unit 182, such as "Copying is complete." Also on the completion notification screen 180, a message indicating that a receipt will be printed according to the receipt printing settings is displayed on the operation guide unit 182, such as "If you have set receipt printing to 'Yes,' it will be printed after the service ends."

[0076] The continuation key 184 is assigned the function of continuing the same service (executing another job in the same service). When the continuation key 184 is operated, the system returns to the color settings screen 120 shown in Figure 5. Therefore, it is possible to continue the same service. However, when the continuation key 184 is operated, the job executed before that is treated as finished. That is, when the continuation key 184 is operated and the next job is executed, it is treated as a different job from the job executed before it. Therefore, by operating the continuation key 184, multiple jobs in the same service may be executed.

[0077] Furthermore, on the completion notification screen 180, when the termination key 180a or continuation key 184 is operated, the receipt printing settings for each job are confirmed (determined). Therefore, when the termination key 180a or continuation key 184 is operated, if the first setting key 166a, which is assigned the setting not to print receipts, is selected (the setting is to not print receipts), it is confirmed that the receipt for that job will not be printed. On the other hand, when the termination key 180a or continuation key 184 is operated, if the second setting key 166b, which is assigned the setting to print receipts, is selected (the setting is to print receipts), it is confirmed that the receipt for that job will be printed.

[0078] Then, when the termination key 180a is pressed, the main service is terminated. At this time, if there are jobs configured to print receipts, the receipts are printed, and the receipt printing notification screen 190, one of the operation screens, is displayed on the display 14, as shown in Figure 12.

[0079] The receipt printing notification screen 190 is a screen for notifying the user that the receipt is being printed, and includes an information section 192 and a lost item reminder section 198. On the receipt printing notification screen 190, a message indicating that the receipt is being printed is displayed in the information section 192, for example, "Printing your receipt. Please wait."

[0080] When the receipt printing notification screen 190 is displayed, that is, when the main service has already been terminated, there may be output items related to the main service. For example, in the case of the copy service, there may be printed copies of the original document. Therefore, the lost item reminder section 198 of the receipt printing notification screen 190 displays a warning image (still or moving image) to remind the user not to forget any items that are subject to attention, such as output items related to the main service.

[0081] On the receipt printing notification screen 190, once the receipt printing is complete, the system automatically proceeds to the next operation screen. For example, once the receipt printing is complete, the display 14 shows the lost item notification screen 200, which is the next operation screen after the receipt printing notification screen 190, as shown in Figure 13. If there are no jobs set to print receipts when the main service ends, the receipt printing notification screen 190 will not be displayed, and the lost item notification screen 200 will be displayed after the completion notification screen 180.

[0082] The lost item notification screen 200 is a screen that alerts the user to forgetting an item that is subject to attention, and includes an exit key 200a and a lost item reminder section 202.

[0083] The lost item reminder unit 202 displays a message to remind users not to forget the items to be remembered, an external view 204 of the information processing device 10 and the image forming apparatus 70, and a number of operation keys 206 corresponding to each of the items to be remembered. For example, in the example shown in Figure 13, the six items to be remembered are a manuscript, printed materials, photographs, receipts, cards, and change, and six operation keys 206a to 206f corresponding to each of the items to be remembered are displayed. Furthermore, the lost item reminder unit 202 displays arrows extending from each of the operation keys 206 toward the external view 204. These arrows point to the part of the external view 204 corresponding to the location of the item corresponding to each operation key 206.

[0084] When the exit key 200a is pressed on the lost item notification screen 200, the home screen 110 shown in Figure 4 is displayed on the display 14.

[0085] As described above, in this embodiment, the print setting units 166, 176, and 186, which allow the user to select the print settings for receipts (accompanying printed materials), are displayed on two or more operation screens (final setting screen 160, execution notification screen 170, and completion notification screen 180) (see Figures 9 to 11). Note that the display configuration of the print setting units in the above embodiment is just one example and is not limited to this. However, the print setting units are displayed on operation screens from the screen that determines the content of the main service (final setting screen 160 in this embodiment) onwards. Furthermore, the print setting units are displayed on operation screens up to the screen that notifies that the job related to the main service has been completed (completion notification screen 180 in this embodiment). In other words, the print setting units are displayed on two or more operation screens from the screen that determines the content of the main service to the screen that notifies that the job related to the main service has been completed. For example, although the print setting units are displayed on all of the final setting screen 160, execution notification screen 170, and completion notification screen 180, it is sufficient for the print setting units to be displayed on any two of the operation screens. Furthermore, if there are any operation screens other than the execution notification screen 170 between the final settings screen 160 and the completion notification screen 180, the print settings section may be displayed on those operation screens.

[0086] Furthermore, each of the print settings sections 166, 176, and 186 is displayed in approximately the same position and size on each operation screen. In other words, when the operation screens are superimposed, the area where the print settings sections overlap is larger than the area where they do not overlap.

[0087] In this embodiment, as a lost item notification service for the user, lost item reminder units 178, 198, and 202, which remind users not to forget items of the designated item, are displayed on two or more operation screens (execution notification screen 170, receipt printing notification screen 190, lost item notification screen 200) (Figures 10, 12, and 13). Note that the display manner of the lost item reminder units in the above embodiment is just one example and is not limited to this. For example, when reminding users not to forget items used in the main service, the lost item reminder unit is displayed on the operation screen that is displayed after the use of the item in question is completed. A lost item reminder unit for reminding users not to forget output from the main service or supplementary printouts from supplementary services is displayed on the operation screen that is displayed after the output of the relevant deliverable is printed. In addition, a lost item reminder unit for comprehensively reminding users not to forget items of the designated item is displayed immediately after the provision of the main service is terminated.

[0088] The above-described operation of the information processing system 100 is achieved by the CPU 32 of the information processing device 10 executing the information processing program for the information processing device 10 stored in the RAM 34, and the CPU 82 of the image forming apparatus 70 executing the information processing program for the image forming apparatus 70 stored in the RAM 84. The specific processing will be explained later using a flowchart.

[0089] Figure 14 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of the memory map 300 of the RAM 34 of the information processing device 10 shown in Figure 2. As shown in Figure 14, the RAM 34 includes a program storage area 302 and a data storage area 304. As described above, the program storage area 302 of the RAM 34 stores the information processing program for the information processing device 10. This information processing program for the information processing device 10 includes a communication program 302a, an operation detection program 302b, a display program 302c, and a print setting program 302d.

[0090] The communication program 302a is a program for communicating (sending and receiving) data with the image forming apparatus 70, an external computer such as a server, or other devices via a network.

[0091] The operation detection program 302b is a program for detecting touch input. The CPU 32 acquires touch coordinate data output from the touch panel 12 according to this operation detection program 302b and stores the acquired touch coordinate data in RAM 34 in chronological order.

[0092] The display program 302c is a program that generates display image data, i.e., screen data such as the various operation screens described above, using the image generation data 304b described later, and outputs it to the display 14.

[0093] The print settings program 302d is a program for setting the print settings for supplementary printouts in response to user operations on the print settings unit.

[0094] Although not shown in the diagram, the program storage area 302 contains a program for setting service fees in the information processing system 100, a storage medium connection program for controlling the writing of data to various recording media attached to the storage medium connection unit 16 and the reading of data from various recording media, a paper print program for controlling the paper printer 18 to print strings, images, barcodes, etc. on roll paper, a code reading program for controlling the code reading unit 20 to extract code images from captured images taken by a laser scanner or camera and decode the extracted code images, and a photographic printer. The printer 10 also stores programs for controlling the printer 26 to print images onto photographic paper, a short-range communication unit 22 to control the short-range communication unit 22 to enable data communication with a communication target (such as an identification card, membership card, or electronic money medium), a currency processing program 302i to control the currency processing unit 24 to calculate the amount to be inserted, and a program to return coins from the coin return slot 24b or banknotes from the banknote slot according to the remaining amount after deducting predetermined service fees from the inserted amount, as well as programs for selecting and executing various functions provided by the information processing device 10.

[0095] Furthermore, the data storage area 304 of the RAM 34 stores operation input data 304a, image generation data 304b, and print setting data 304c, among other things.

[0096] The operation input data 304a is data that stores touch coordinate data detected according to the operation detection program 302b in chronological order. The image generation data 304b is data such as polygon data or texture data for generating display image data corresponding to various screens to be displayed on the display 14.

[0097] The print setting data 304c is the print setting data for the accompanying printed materials, which is set according to the print setting program 302d.

[0098] Although not shown in the diagram, the data storage area 304 stores other data necessary for executing the information processing program for the information processing device 10, and also contains timers (counters) and registers necessary for executing the information processing program for the information processing device 10.

[0099] Figure 15 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of the memory map 400 of the RAM 84 of the image forming apparatus 70 shown in Figure 3. As shown in Figure 15, the RAM 84 includes a program storage area 402 and a data storage area 404. As described above, the program storage area 402 of the RAM 84 stores the information processing program for the image forming apparatus 70. This information processing program for the image forming apparatus 70 includes a communication program 402a, an image reading program 402b, and an image forming program 402c.

[0100] The communication program 402a is a program for communicating with an external computer or other device, such as the information processing device 10 or a server, via a network.

[0101] The image reading program 402b is a program that controls the image reading unit 72 to read (scan) the image of the document placed on the document placement table and to output an image signal (scanned image data) corresponding to the read image.

[0102] The image forming program 402c is a program that controls the image forming unit 74 to form a multi-color or monochrome image on a recording medium (paper) according to the image data 404a, such as scanned image data or input image data.

[0103] Although not shown in the diagram, the program storage area 402 also stores programs for selecting and executing various functions provided by the image forming apparatus 70.

[0104] Furthermore, the data storage area 404 of the RAM 84 stores image data 404a, etc. Image data 404a includes image data read by the image reading unit 72 or image data input from an external computer such as a server.

[0105] Although not shown in the diagram, the data storage area 404 also stores other data necessary for executing the information processing program for the image forming apparatus 70, and is equipped with timers (counters) and registers necessary for executing the information processing program for the image forming apparatus 70.

[0106] Figure 16 is a flowchart showing an example of information processing performed by the CPU 32 of the information processing device 10 shown in Figure 2. This information processing is started when the main service is selected.

[0107] As shown in Figure 16, when the CPU 32 of the information processing device 10 starts information processing, in step S1 it displays the first of several operation screens for configuring the selected main service on the display 14, and in step S3 it determines whether to proceed to the next operation screen. Here, it determines whether a transition key has been operated or whether a predetermined process has been completed.

[0108] If the answer in step S3 is "YES," that is, if it is decided to proceed to the next operation screen, then in step S5, the next operation screen is displayed on the display 14 and the process proceeds to step S7. On the other hand, if the answer in step S3 is "NO," that is, if it is decided not to proceed to the next operation screen, the process proceeds to step S7 while remaining on the same operation screen.

[0109] In step S7, it is determined whether to terminate the job related to the main service. If the answer in step S7 is "NO," that is, if it is determined not to terminate the job related to the main service, the process returns to step S3. On the other hand, if the answer in step S7 is "YES," that is, if it is determined to terminate the job related to the main service, then in step S9, the print settings for that job are stored, and in step S11, it is determined whether to terminate the main service.

[0110] If the answer in step S11 is "NO," that is, if it is decided not to terminate the main service, the process returns to step S1. On the other hand, if the answer in step S11 is "YES," that is, if it is decided to terminate the main service, then in step S13, the print settings for each job included in the terminated main service are read, and in step S15, it is decided whether or not to print the accompanying documents.

[0111] If the answer in step S15 is "YES," that is, if it is decided to print the supplementary documents, then in step S17, the supplementary documents are printed and the information processing is terminated. On the other hand, if the answer in step S15 is "NO," that is, if it is decided not to print the supplementary documents, then the information processing is terminated without printing the supplementary documents.

[0112] In this first embodiment, a print settings section for allowing the user to select print settings for accompanying printed materials of the accompanying services is displayed on two or more operation screens, and a lost item reminder section for reminding the user not to forget items is displayed on two or more operation screens. As a result, the accompanying services can be reliably recognized and provided in accordance with the user's intentions.

[0113] [Second Example] In the second embodiment of the information processing device 10, we will explain the case where the fax transmission service is selected as an example, but we will explain the differences from the first embodiment and omit any redundant explanations.

[0114] An example of the operation of the information processing system 100 of the second embodiment will be explained with reference to Figures 17 to 20. When the key 112 assigned to the fax service is operated on the home screen 110 (the fax service is selected), several operation screens (fax setting screens) for setting the operating conditions of the fax service are displayed sequentially on the display 14. For example, first, a screen for selecting whether to send or receive a fax (send / receive selection screen) is displayed. If sending a fax is selected on the send / receive selection screen (the fax sending service is selected), the destination setting screen 210 shown in Figure 17 is displayed on the display 14. This destination setting screen 210 is the first screen displayed among the several operation screens for setting the operating conditions of the fax service.

[0115] The destination setting screen 210 is a screen for setting the destination (sender) for a fax, and includes an exit key 210a, a transition key 210b, an operation guide section 212, and a setting section 214. On the destination setting screen 210, a message prompting the user to enter the destination number for the fax is displayed in the operation guide section 212, for example, "Please enter the destination number and press 'Next'."

[0116] The setting unit 214 includes a numeric keypad, an erase key, and an input display field. The numeric keypad is used to directly input the destination number of the fax recipient into the input display field. When the numeric keypad is operated, the operated number is displayed in the input display field above the numeric keypad. The erase key is used to erase the number displayed in the input display field.

[0117] On the destination setting screen 210, once the fax destination is set, that is, once the destination number of the fax destination has been entered up to a predetermined number of digits, the transition key 210b is activated. When the activated transition key 210b is operated, the operation screens that follow the destination setting screen 210 are displayed sequentially on the display 14.

[0118] Although not shown in the diagram, for example, a screen to guide the user on how to set the document (corresponding to the guidance screen 140), a screen to check the scanned image data (corresponding to the preview screen 150), and so on are displayed sequentially. Furthermore, once the operating conditions necessary for executing a fax transmission service job (fax transmission job) are set on each operation screen, a screen to finalize the operating conditions for the fax transmission service (corresponding to the final settings screen 160) is displayed. When the start key (transition key) is operated on that screen, the fax transmission job is started, and a screen to notify the user that the fax transmission job is running (corresponding to the execution notification screen 170), a screen to notify the user of the transmission result of the fax transmission job (transmission result notification screen), a screen to notify the user that the fax transmission job has been completed (corresponding to the completion notification screen 180), and a screen to warn the user about forgetting an item (corresponding to the lost item notification screen 200), and so on are displayed sequentially.

[0119] Furthermore, if there is a job set to print a receipt, the receipt will be printed before the screen reminding the user about forgetting to pick up the items to be careful about is displayed, and a screen informing the user that the receipt is being printed (corresponding to receipt printing notification screen 190) will be displayed.

[0120] However, the multiple operation screens for setting the operating conditions of the fax service include the results table print settings screen 220 shown in Figure 18.

[0121] The results sheet print settings screen 220 is a screen that allows the user to select whether or not to print the fax transmission results sheet (hereinafter simply referred to as the "transmission results sheet") in the fax transmission results sheet printing service, which is an example of an ancillary service. It includes an exit key 220a, a guidance section 222, and a print settings section (transmission results sheet print settings section) 224. On the results sheet print settings screen 220, a message prompting the user to select the print settings for the transmission results sheet is displayed in the guidance section 222, for example, "Do you want to print the transmission results sheet? (Printing is free)."

[0122] The print settings unit 224 is provided to allow the user to select the print settings for the transmission result table. In other words, the print settings unit 224 is an example of a selection unit that allows the user to select whether or not to print the transmission result table, which is an accompanying printed document, and is also an example of a notification unit that provides notifications regarding the transmission result table printing service, which is an accompanying service.

[0123] The print settings unit 224 includes a first setting key 224a assigned to the setting of not printing the transmission result table, and a second setting key 224b assigned to the setting of printing the transmission result table. The print setting for the transmission result table is determined (selected) by operating either the first setting key 224a or the second setting key 224b. In addition, the first setting key 224a and the second setting key 224b are assigned the function of proceeding to the next operation screen, and when either the first setting key 224a or the second setting key 224b is operated, the system switches to the next operation screen. However, the print setting for the transmission result table is initially set to not print the transmission result table. Furthermore, when switching to the next operation screen, the print setting for the transmission result table is maintained as selected on the previous operation screen.

[0124] In this embodiment, the results table print settings screen 220 is displayed at least twice between the time the fax service is selected and the completion of the fax transmission job. That is, it is displayed at least twice between the time the initial fax settings screen is displayed and the screen that notifies the user that the fax transmission job is complete is displayed. More specifically, the results table print settings screen 220 is displayed at least twice before the screen that notifies the user of the transmission results of the fax transmission job is displayed. For example, the results table print settings screen 220 is displayed at least once before the screen for finally determining the contents of the main service and at least once after the screen for finally determining the contents of the main service.

[0125] Alternatively, instead of the results table print settings screen 220, the results table print settings unit, including the guidance unit 222 and the print settings unit 224, may be displayed as part of another operation screen. In other words, the results table print settings unit may be embedded in another operation screen. In this case, the results table print settings unit will be displayed on two or more operation screens.

[0126] According to this second embodiment, since the screen for selecting the print settings for the transmission result table is displayed multiple times, the fax transmission result table printing service is reliably recognized, and the fax transmission result table printing service can be performed in accordance with the user's intentions.

[0127] The transmission result table is basically printed by the image forming unit 74 (first image forming unit). However, the transmission result table may be printed by the paper printer 18 (third image forming unit) instead of the image forming unit 74. In addition, the transmission result table basically prints (includes) the transmission result, transmission date and time, recipient, and sender, but it may also include the title of the transmitted image or the transmitted image (if there are multiple transmitted images, one representative image).

[0128] The specific configurations and other details mentioned in the above-mentioned examples are merely illustrative and can be modified as appropriate depending on the actual product.

[0129] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the information processing device 10 is equipped with a display 14 with a touch panel 12, and the operation screen is displayed on the display 14, but it is not limited to this. For example, the image forming apparatus 70 may be equipped with a display with a touch panel (corresponding to the first display). In this case, the display 14 with the touch panel 12 of the information processing device 10 may be omitted, or the information processing device 10 may remain equipped with a display 14 with a touch panel 12 (a configuration in which both the information processing device 10 and the image forming apparatus 70 are equipped with displays with touch panels). However, if the display 14 with the touch panel 12 of the information processing device 10 is omitted, the operation screen will be displayed on the display of the image forming apparatus 70. Also, if both the information processing device 10 and the image forming apparatus 70 are equipped with displays with touch panels, the operation screen may be displayed on each display, or on either one of the displays. When the operation screen is displayed on the display of the image forming apparatus 70, the user can perform job settings, etc., on the operation screen by touch input to the touch panel of the image forming apparatus 70. [Explanation of symbols]

[0130] 10 ... Information Processing Device 12…Touch panel 14…Display 32 ...CPU 34...RAM 36 …ROM 70…Image forming apparatus

Claims

1. An information processing device that cooperates with an image forming apparatus, which has an image reading unit located above the paper discharge space for discharging printed materials and an image forming unit located below it, A display with a touch panel that can show a receipt issuance button, The receipt output unit that issues receipts, It includes a control unit, The receipt paper output unit is located below the display and within the vertical height range of the paper output space of the image forming apparatus. The control unit, after the image forming apparatus has discharged printed material into the paper output space, displays a screen on the display to notify the user that a receipt is being printed in response to the operation of the receipt issuance button displayed on the display, and when the receipt is issued, displays on the display a screen showing the appearance of the image forming apparatus and the information processing apparatus, along with a screen to prevent the user from forgetting to take the receipt.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the receipt paper output unit is arranged in the paper output space of the image forming apparatus in a direction for discharging printed material.

Images