Printing system, method for controlling the printing system, and program

Abstract

Even if the display area of ​​the printing device is too small to adequately display detailed manual information, the system will be able to present detailed manual information to the user in an easy-to-understand format. [Solution] The printer (printing device) 200 transmits a manual startup instruction signal from the printer 200's manual to a terminal device (information processing device) 100 with which it is connected, and displays information related to the manual startup instruction signal on a display unit (first display means). The terminal device 100 receives the manual startup instruction signal and displays the manual information from the printer 200's manual on a display unit (second display means) based on the received manual startup instruction signal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a printing system, a control method for a printing system, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, operation panels have been mounted on many printing devices such as printers. An information display unit composed of a liquid crystal display panel or the like is provided on the operation panel of this printing device, and various setting information in the printing device, information indicating the current state of the printing device, etc. are displayed on this information display unit. For example, when the printing device performs copying, copy setting information is displayed on the operation panel (information display unit), and information indicating the state of the printing device is displayed during the execution of copying.

[0003] Similarly, when printing is performed from an information processing device such as a personal computer (PC) or a smartphone, information during printing is displayed on the operation panel (information display unit) of the printing device. Further, when an error such as the paper running out occurs during printing, error information is displayed on the operation panel of the printing device. The user operates the printing device based on the information displayed on such an operation panel.

[0004] However, among users, there are also users who do not understand how to operate the printing device only from the information displayed on the operation panel (information display unit) of the printing device. For such users, there is a function to display information such as a manual that supplements the information displayed on the operation panel of the printing device. For example, a HELP button is provided near the information display unit on the operation panel of the printing device, and when the HELP button is pressed, explanatory information that supplements the information that has been displayed on the information display unit is displayed.

[0005] Furthermore, Patent Document 1 describes a technique in which, when an error occurs in a printing device, the error details are displayed on the control panel, and manual information corresponding to the error is printed out by pressing a manual print button provided on the printing device. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2008-145948 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] In technologies that display supplementary explanatory information on the control panel (information display unit) of a printing device, the display area of ​​the control panel may be small depending on the printing device, making it difficult to adequately present detailed manual information to the user. Furthermore, the technology described in Patent Document 1 requires paper to present manual information to the user, making it difficult to present detailed manual information to the user if, for example, paper is not available or the printout function of the printing device malfunctions.

[0008] This invention has been made in view of the above problems, and aims to provide users with easy-to-understand detailed manual information even when the display area of ​​the display unit of a printing device is small and cannot adequately display detailed manual information. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The present invention relates to a printing system comprising a printing device and an information processing device that is communicated with the printing device, wherein the printing device includes a transmitting means for transmitting a manual start instruction signal in the printing device's manual to the information processing device or to the information processing device via another device, and a first display means for displaying information related to the manual start instruction signal, and the information processing device includes a receiving means for receiving the manual start instruction signal, and a second display means for displaying manual information in the printing device's manual based on the manual start instruction signal when the receiving means receives the manual start instruction signal. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, even when the display area of ​​the printing device's display unit is small and detailed manual information cannot be adequately displayed, detailed manual information can be presented to the user in an easy-to-understand manner. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of a schematic configuration of a printing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of the hardware configuration of a terminal device (information processing device) according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the hardware configuration of a printer (printing device) according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of an operation panel for a printer (printing device) according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of the operation panel of a printer (printing device) according to the first embodiment, and is a diagram showing an example of the display on the information display unit when the OK button is pressed in the state shown in Figure 4. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of the operation panel of a printer (printing device) according to the first embodiment, and is a diagram showing an example of the display on the information display unit when the selection button is pressed in the state shown in Figure 4. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of the display on the display unit when the HELP button is pressed in the state shown in Figure 5, in the terminal device (information processing device) according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of the operation panel of a printer (printing device) according to the first embodiment, and an example of the display of the information display unit when an error occurs when printing or copying is performed in response to a print command from a terminal device (information processing device). [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of the display on the display unit when the HELP button is pressed in the state shown in Figure 8, in the terminal device (information processing device) according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] This flowchart shows a control method for a printing system according to the first embodiment, and is an example of the printer's processing when the HELP button on the printer's (printing device) operation panel is pressed. [Figure 11] This figure shows an example of a manual startup instruction signal that a printer (printing device) sends to a connected terminal device (information processing device) when the HELP button is pressed in the state shown in Figure 5, illustrating the first embodiment. [Figure 12] This flowchart shows a control method for a printing system according to the first embodiment, and is an example of the processing of a terminal device (information processing device) when a manual start instruction signal is transmitted from a printer (printing device) with which communication is connected. [Figure 13] This flowchart shows a control method for a printing system according to a second embodiment, and is an example of the printer's processing when the HELP button on the printer's (printing device) operation panel is pressed. [Figure 14] This figure shows a second embodiment and is an example of a manual startup instruction signal that a printer (printing device) sends to a terminal device (information processing device) with which it is communicating when the HELP button is pressed in the state shown in Figure 5. [Figure 15]It shows a control method of a printing system according to a second embodiment, and is a flowchart showing an example of the processing of a terminal device (information processing device) when a manual activation instruction signal is transmitted from a printer (printing device) connected by communication. [Figure 16] It shows a second embodiment, and is a diagram showing an example of a selection screen displayed on a display unit of a terminal device (information processing device) in order to allow a user to select a display language in step S1501 of FIG. 15. [Figure 17] It shows a third embodiment, and is a diagram showing an example of a manual activation instruction signal transmitted from a printer (printing device) to a terminal device (information processing device) with which the printer is communicatively connected when a HELP button is pressed in the state shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 18] It shows a control method of a printing system according to a third embodiment, and is a flowchart showing an example of the processing of a terminal device (information processing device) when a manual activation instruction signal is transmitted from a printer (printing device) connected by communication. [Figure 19] It shows a control method of a printing system according to a fourth embodiment, and is a flowchart showing an example of the processing of a printer when an error occurs in the printer (printing device). [Figure 20] It shows an example of an operation panel of a printer (printing device) according to a fifth embodiment, and is a diagram showing a display example in which a message for inputting a user ID is displayed on an information display unit. [Figure 21] It shows an example of an operation panel of a printer (printing device) according to a fifth embodiment, and is a diagram showing a display example in which a message for registering a terminal device (information processing device) used by the user and communicatively connected to the printer is displayed on an information display unit. [Figure 22] It shows an example of an association information table stored in a ROM of a printer (printing device) according to a fifth embodiment, which associates user information with information of the user's terminal device (information processing device). [Figure 23] It shows a control method of a printing system according to a fifth embodiment, and is a flowchart showing an example of the processing of a printer when a HELP button on an operation panel of the printer (printing device) is pressed. [Figure 24] This figure shows an example of the operation panel of a printer (printing device) according to the fifth embodiment, and illustrates an example of displaying error message information on the information display unit in step S2304 of Figure 23. [Figure 25] This figure shows an example of a schematic configuration of a printing system according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 26] This figure shows an example of displaying a push notification from a push notification server (server device) in the display unit of a terminal device (information processing device) according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 27] This flowchart shows a control method for a printing system according to a sixth embodiment, and is an example of the printer's processing when the HELP button on the printer's (printing device) operation panel is pressed. [Figure 28] This flowchart shows a control method for a printing system according to the sixth embodiment, and is an example of the processing of a push notification server (server device) when a manual start instruction signal is sent from a printer (printing device). [Figure 29] This flowchart shows a control method for a printing system according to the sixth embodiment, and is an example of the processing performed by a terminal device (information processing device) when a push notification is sent from a push notification server (server device). [Figure 30] This flowchart shows a control method for a printing system according to the seventh embodiment, and is a first example of the printer's processing when the HELP button on the printer's (printing device) operation panel is pressed. [Figure 31] This figure shows an example of the operation panel of a printer (printing device) according to the seventh embodiment, and is a display example in which message information is displayed on the information display unit in step S3001 of Figure 30. [Figure 32] This flowchart shows a control method for a printing system according to the seventh embodiment, and is a second example of the printer's processing when the HELP button on the printer's (printing device) operation panel is pressed. [Figure 33]This figure shows an example of the operation panel of a printer (printing device) according to the seventh embodiment, and is a display example showing the display of general manual information on the information display unit in step S3201 of Figure 32. [Figure 34] This flowchart shows a control method for a printing system according to the eighth embodiment, and is an example of the printer's processing when the HELP button on the printer's (printing device) operation panel is pressed. [Figure 35] This flowchart shows a control method for a printing system according to the ninth embodiment, and is an example of the printer's processing when the HELP button on the printer's (printing device) operation panel is pressed. [Figure 36] This figure shows an example of the operation panel of a printer (printing device) according to the ninth embodiment, and is a display example showing information guiding the communication connection between the printer and the terminal device on the information display unit in step S3503 of Figure 35. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] The embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiments described below are not intended to limit the scope of the claims, and not all combinations of features described in each embodiment are necessarily essential to the solution of the present invention.

[0013] (First embodiment) First, let me describe the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of the printing system 10 according to the first embodiment. In the following description, the printing system 10 according to the first embodiment will be referred to as "printing system 10-1" as shown in Figure 1, where necessary.

[0015] As shown in Figure 1, the printing system 10-1 has multiple terminal devices 100-1 to 100-3 and a printer 200. In the following description, items common to multiple terminal devices 100-1 to 100-3 will simply be referred to as "terminal device 100".

[0016] Each terminal device 100 in the multiple terminal devices 100-1 to 100-3 is an information processing device configured to communicate with the printer 200. For example, the terminal device (information processing device) 100 can communicate with the printer 200 via a LAN or USB cable. The terminal device 100 is also an information processing device such as a personal computer (PC) or a smartphone. As shown in Figure 1, the terminal device 100 has a software configuration consisting of an operating system (OS) 101, an application 102, and a printer driver 103.

[0017] The printer (printing device) 200 is a printing device that performs printing. The printer 200 is configured to communicate with each terminal device 100.

[0018] Figure 2 shows an example of the hardware configuration of a terminal device (information processing device) 100 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 2, the terminal device 100 has a hardware configuration comprising a CPU 110, a storage unit 120, an audio output unit 130, an operation unit 140, a display unit 150, a communication unit 160, and a bus 170.

[0019] The CPU 110 is a processor that controls the entire terminal device (information processing device) 100 and performs various processing tasks. The CPU 110 executes programs stored in the memory unit 120 to realize the functions of the OS 101, application 102, and printer driver 103 shown in Figure 1.

[0020] The memory unit 120 is composed of, for example, ROM or RAM, and stores programs and various information (including data) necessary for the CPU 110 to control the terminal device (information processing device) 100 as a whole and perform various processes. The memory unit 120 also stores various information (including data) obtained by the CPU 110 as a result of controlling the terminal device 100 as a whole and performing various processes. Examples of programs stored in the memory unit 120 include the OS 101, application 102, and printer driver 103 shown in Figure 1. Printing instructions and the transmission and reception of various information to the printer (printing device) 200, which is connected to the terminal device 100, are performed through the application 102 and printer driver 103 shown in Figure 1. Note that the printing instructions may be given by the application 102, which has printing functionality, instead of the printer driver 103. Furthermore, the application 102 can receive information from the printer 200 and display the content based on the received information on the display unit 150, or it can display the printer 200's manual information on the display unit 150.

[0021] The audio output unit 130 is composed of, for example, a speaker. The audio output unit 130 outputs sound based on the control of the CPU 110.

[0022] The operation unit 140 is composed of, for example, a mouse, keyboard, or touch control panel. The operation unit 140 receives operation input from the user and inputs the information of the received operation input to the CPU 110.

[0023] The display unit 150 is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal display. Based on the control of the CPU 110, the display unit 150 displays various images and various information.

[0024] The communication unit 160 is composed of, for example, a wireless LAN interface or a USB interface. Based on the control of the CPU 110, the communication unit 160 communicates with other devices (for example, a printer (printing device) 200).

[0025] Bus 170 is a system bus that connects the CPU 110, memory unit 120, audio output unit 130, operation unit 140, display unit 150, and communication unit 160 to each other.

[0026] Figure 3 shows an example of the hardware configuration of a printer (printing device) 200 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 3, the printer 200 has a hardware configuration of a CPU 210, a print engine 220, a ROM 230, a RAM 240, an input / output interface (input / output I / F) 250, an operation panel 260, and a bus 270.

[0027] The CPU 210 is a processor that controls the entire printer (printing device) 200 and performs various processing tasks.

[0028] The print engine 220 prints onto a recording medium such as paper, based on the control of the CPU 210. For example, the print engine 220 prints an image onto the recording medium using a recording medium such as ink, based on various information (including data) stored in the RAM 240 and a print job received from the terminal device 100, and outputs the recording medium with the print result.

[0029] ROM230 stores programs and various information (including data) necessary for the CPU210 to control the printer (printing device) 200 as a whole and perform various processes. Examples of the various information (including data) stored in ROM230 include fixed data such as data tables and manual information in the printer 200 manual.

[0030] RAM240 is composed of, for example, SRAM (Static Random Access Memory) that requires a backup power supply. RAM240 holds various information (including data) using, for example, a primary battery for data backup. RAM240 also stores, for example, program control variables whose information (including data) should not be erased. Furthermore, RAM240 is used, for example, as the work memory of CPU210 and is also used as a temporary storage buffer for various received information (including data).

[0031] The input / output interface 250 communicates with other devices (e.g., terminal devices (information processing devices) 100) via, for example, a LAN or USB cable, based on the control of the CPU 210.

[0032] The control panel 260 is, for example, a panel operated by the user, and is used to set various functions of the printer (printing device) 200 and display their status.

[0033] Bus 270 is a system bus that interconnects the CPU 210, print engine 220, ROM 230, RAM 240, input / output I / F 250, and control panel 260.

[0034] Figure 4 shows an example of the operation panel 260 of a printer (printing device) 200 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, the operation panel 260 includes an information display unit 410, an OK button 420, a Cancel button 430, a Select button 440, and a Help button 450.

[0035] The information display unit 410 displays, for example, function information, setting information, and status information of the printer (printing device) 200, as well as status information of the terminal device (information processing device) 100. For example, the information display unit 410 shown in Figure 4 displays "copy" as setting information (function information) for the printer 200.

[0036] By pressing the OK button 420, the user can authorize execution, allow settings, or proceed with processing based on the information displayed on the information display unit 410. For example, as shown in Figure 4, if "Copy" is displayed on the information display unit 410, pressing the OK button 420 will execute the copy function.

[0037] The user can stop the processing of information displayed on the information display unit 410 by pressing the Cancel button 430.

[0038] The user can switch the information displayed on the information display unit 410 by pressing the selection button 440. By pressing the selection button 440, the user can, for example, change the information displayed on the information display unit 410 to the next option.

[0039] By pressing the HELP button 450, the user can switch the display to show supplementary explanatory information, for example, that is displayed on the information display unit 410. By pressing the HELP button 450, the user can, for example, display the relevant manual information for the printer 200 on the display unit 150 of the terminal device (information processing device) 100, which is connected to the printer (printing device) 200 in communication.

[0040] Figure 5 shows an example of the operation panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 according to the first embodiment, and is a diagram showing an example of the display on the information display unit 410 when the OK button 420 is pressed in the state shown in Figure 4. In Figure 5, the same reference numerals are used for the same components as shown in Figure 4, and their detailed explanations are omitted.

[0041] When the OK button 420 is pressed in the state shown in Figure 4, the display on the information display unit 410 switches to the display shown in Figure 5, for example. When the OK button 420 is pressed in the state shown in Figure 5, the printer (printing device) 200 performs the copy process. Also, when the Cancel button 430 is pressed in the state shown in Figure 5, the state can be returned to the state shown in Figure 4.

[0042] Furthermore, when the selection button 440 is pressed in the state shown in Figure 4, the information displayed on the information display unit 410 can be changed from "copy" to the next option.

[0043] Figure 6 shows an example of the operation panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 according to the first embodiment, and is a diagram showing an example of the display on the information display unit 410 when the selection button 440 is pressed in the state shown in Figure 4. In Figure 6, the same reference numerals are used for components that are the same as those shown in Figures 4 and 5, and their detailed explanations are omitted.

[0044] When the selection button 440 is pressed in the state shown in Figure 4, the display on the information display unit 410 shown in Figure 6 will switch to "Scan" (the display will switch from "Copy" to "Scan" in Figure 4).

[0045] Furthermore, in the state shown in Figure 5, if the user does not know how to change the paper size or double-sided printing settings, they will press the HELP button 450. In this case, the display unit 150 of the terminal device (information processing device) 100, which is connected to the printer (printing device) 200 in communication, can display the relevant manual information for the printer 200.

[0046] Figure 7 shows an example of the display on the display unit 150 when the HELP button 450 is pressed in the state shown in Figure 5 in the terminal device (information processing device) 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0047] As shown in Figure 7, the display unit 150 of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 displays manual information, which is detailed information regarding the copy printing settings (what settings are available, how to set them, etc.). This detailed manual information cannot be fully displayed on the information display unit 410 of the operation panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 due to its small display area. Therefore, in this embodiment, by displaying this detailed manual information on the display unit 150 of the terminal device 100, which has a larger display area than the information display unit 410, the user can be presented with this detailed manual information.

[0048] Figure 8 shows an example of the operation panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 according to the first embodiment, and is a diagram showing an example of the display on the information display unit 410 when an error occurs when printing or copying is performed in response to a print command from the terminal device (information processing device) 100. In Figure 8, the same reference numerals are used for components that are the same as those shown in Figures 4 to 6, and their detailed explanations are omitted.

[0049] Specifically, the information display unit 410 of the control panel 260 shown in Figure 8 shows an example of a display when a paper jam occurs and an error occurs. More specifically, the information display unit 410 of the control panel 260 shown in Figure 8 displays the error number and a message indicating a brief description of the error. While the user can see from the message displayed on the information display unit 410 shown in Figure 8 that the paper needs to be removed, they may not know how to remove the paper. In this case, the user can press the HELP button 450 on the control panel 260 shown in Figure 8 to check the manual information, which contains detailed information.

[0050] Figure 9 shows an example of the display on the display unit 150 when the HELP button 450 is pressed in the state shown in Figure 8 in the terminal device (information processing device) 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0051] The display unit 150 of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 shown in Figure 9 displays manual information, which details how to remove paper jams depending on where the jam occurred in the printer (printing device) 200. This detailed manual information cannot be fully displayed on the information display unit 410 of the printer 200's operation panel 260 due to its small display area. Therefore, in this embodiment, by displaying this detailed manual information on the display unit 150 of the terminal device 100, which has a larger display area than the information display unit 410, the user can be presented with this detailed manual information. In addition, although the display unit 150 of the terminal device 100 shown in Figure 9 displays manual information with only messages, manual information using illustrations or videos may also be displayed. Furthermore, for example, displaying the manual information as a slideshow on the information display unit 410 of the printer 200's operation panel 260 would make the manual information easier for the user to understand.

[0052] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for the printing system 10 according to the first embodiment, showing an example of the processing performed by the printer 200 when the HELP button 450 on the operation panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 is pressed.

[0053] In the first embodiment, if the user presses the HELP button 450 on the control panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200, the process proceeds to step S1001 in Figure 10. When the process proceeds to step S1001 in Figure 10, the input / output interface 250 transmits a manual startup instruction signal from the printer 200's manual to the connected terminal device (information processing device) 100, based on the control of the CPU 210. Specifically, in step S1001, the input / output interface 250 transmits a manual startup instruction signal that includes manual ID information to identify which printer 200 manual it is. The input / output interface 250 of the printer 200 that transmits the manual startup instruction signal in step S1001 of Figure 10 constitutes a transmission means.

[0054] In this embodiment, during step S1001 in Figure 10, the information display unit 410 of the operation panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 displays the information related to the manual startup instruction signal described above, based on the control of the CPU 210. The information display unit 410 of the printer 200 that displays this information related to the manual startup instruction signal constitutes the first display means.

[0055] Once the process in step S1001 in Figure 10 is completed, the process shown in the flowchart in Figure 10 is finished.

[0056] Figure 11 shows a first embodiment and illustrates an example of a manual start instruction signal 1100 that the printer (printing device) 200 transmits to the terminal device (information processing device) 100 with which it is communicating when the HELP button 450 is pressed in the state shown in Figure 5.

[0057] The manual start instruction signal 1100 shown in Figure 11 includes not only the manual start instruction information "Manual Start" but also the information "Manual ID" which indicates which page of the manual to display. In the state shown in Figure 5, it is necessary to display the manual page related to copy settings, so the manual start instruction signal 1100 shown in Figure 11 sends "Manual ID:Copy_Config", which is the manual ID indicating that page.

[0058] Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for the printing system 10 according to the first embodiment, showing an example of the processing of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 when a manual start instruction signal 1100 is transmitted from a printer (printing device) 200 with which it is connected.

[0059] If a manual start instruction signal 1100 is sent from the connected printer (printing device) 200, the process proceeds to step S1201 in Figure 12. When the process proceeds to step S1201 in Figure 12, the communication unit 160 determines, based on the control of the CPU 110, whether or not it has received a manual start instruction signal 1100 from the connected printer 200. In this embodiment, for example, the processing of the communication unit 160 and CPU 110 of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 in step S1201 in Figure 12 is performed by the application 102 of the terminal device 100. At this time, the application 102 is always running (generally called "resident startup") so that it can receive the manual start instruction signal at any time, and it periodically repeats the determination of whether or not it has received the manual start instruction signal.

[0060] In step S1201 of Figure 12, if the communication unit 160 (application 102) determines that it has not received a manual start instruction signal 1100 from the connected printer (printing device) 200 (S1201 / No), it remains in standby mode at S1201.

[0061] Furthermore, in step S1201 of Figure 12, if the communication unit 160 (application 102) determines that it has received a manual start instruction signal 1100 from the connected printer (printing device) 200 (S1201 / Yes), the process proceeds to S1202. In this case, the communication unit 160 of the terminal device (information processing device) 100, which processes the reception of the manual start instruction signal 1100, constitutes a receiving means.

[0062] When the process proceeds to step S1202 in Figure 12, the display unit 150 displays manual information from the printer (printing device) 200 manual based on the manual activation instruction signal 1100 received by the communication unit 160. The display unit 150 of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 that displays this manual information constitutes a second display means. Specifically, in step S1202 in Figure 12, the display unit 150 displays the information of the page in the manual stored in the ROM 230 that is identified by the manual ID included in the manual activation instruction signal 1100, as manual information.

[0063] Once the process in step S1202 in Figure 12 is completed, the process shown in the flowchart in Figure 12 is finished.

[0064] The printing system 10 according to the first embodiment described above comprises a printer (printing device) 200 that performs printing and a terminal device (information processing device) 100 that communicates with the printer 200. The printer 200 is equipped with an input / output I / F 250 (transmission means) that transmits a manual startup instruction signal from its own manual to the terminal device 100, and an information display unit 410 (first display means) that displays information related to the manual startup instruction signal. The terminal device 100 is equipped with a communication unit 160 (receiving means) that receives the manual startup instruction signal, and a display unit 150 (second display means) that displays manual information from the printer 200's manual based on the received manual startup instruction signal. With this configuration, even if the display area of ​​the printer 200's information display unit 410 is too small to adequately display detailed manual information, the user can be presented with detailed manual information in an easy-to-understand manner. Specifically, by displaying the manual information on the display unit 150 of the user's terminal device 100, which is connected to the printer 200 in communication, the user can be presented with detailed manual information in an easy-to-understand manner.

[0065] Furthermore, in the first embodiment described above, the manual activation instruction signal 1100 shown in Figure 11 includes a manual ID for identifying which manual for the printer (printing device) 200 is being used. The display unit 150 (second display means) of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 displays the manual information for the manual identified by the manual ID included in the manual activation instruction signal 1100 (S1202 in Figure 12).

[0066] Furthermore, in the first embodiment described above, the input / output I / F 250 (transmission means) of the printer (printing device) 200 transmits a manual start instruction signal 1100 when a predetermined button, the HELP button 450, provided on the device is operated.

[0067] (Second embodiment) Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the description of the second embodiment below, matters common to the first embodiment described above will be omitted, and matters that differ from the first embodiment described above will be explained.

[0068] The schematic configuration of the printing system according to the second embodiment is the same as the schematic configuration of the printing system 10 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 1. The hardware configuration of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 according to the second embodiment is the same as the hardware configuration of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 2. The hardware configuration of the printer (printing device) 200 according to the second embodiment is the same as the hardware configuration of the printer (printing device) 200 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 3.

[0069] In the first embodiment described above, the HELP button 450 of the printer (printing device) 200 was operated to send a manual start instruction signal to a terminal device (information processing device) 100 that was connected to the printer 200 via communication. In the first embodiment described above, the terminal device 100 displayed manual information from the printer 200 manual based on the received manual start instruction signal. The first embodiment described above has the following two problems.

[0070] The first challenge is that when the HELP button 450 on the printer (printing device) 200 is pressed, the terminal device (information processing device) 100 cannot determine which printer model 200's manual information should be displayed. The functions supported by the printer 200 and the methods for resolving errors that occur differ depending on the printer model. Therefore, in order to present the user with the most appropriate manual information, it is necessary to display the manual information for the printer 200 model for which the HELP button 450 was pressed.

[0071] The second issue is that when the HELP button 450 of the printer (printing device) 200 is pressed, the terminal device (information processing device) 100 cannot determine which language to use for displaying the manual information. It is desirable to display the manual information in the language that is most suitable for the user.

[0072] Therefore, in the second embodiment, in addition to the method in the first embodiment described above, a configuration is described that enables the display of manual information for the optimal model in the optimal language.

[0073] Figure 13 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for the printing system 10 according to the second embodiment, showing an example of the processing performed by the printer 200 when the HELP button 450 on the operation panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 is pressed.

[0074] In the second embodiment, if the user presses the HELP button 450 on the control panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200, the process proceeds to step S1301 in Figure 13. When the process proceeds to step S1301 in Figure 13, the input / output interface 250 transmits a manual startup instruction signal from the printer 200's manual to the connected terminal device (information processing device) 100, based on the control of the CPU 210. Specifically, in step S1001, the input / output interface 250 transmits a manual startup instruction signal that includes the manual ID to identify which printer 200 manual it is, the model name of the printer 200, and information about the printer 200's display language. In this case, the printer 200's display language is, for example, the language of the information displayed on the printer 200's information display unit 410. The input / output interface 250 of the printer 200 that transmits the manual startup instruction signal in step S1301 in Figure 13 constitutes a transmission means.

[0075] In this embodiment, during step S1301 in Figure 13, the information display unit 410 of the operation panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 displays the information related to the manual startup instruction signal described above, based on the control of the CPU 210. The information display unit 410 of the printer 200 that displays this information related to the manual startup instruction signal constitutes the first display means.

[0076] Once the process in step S1301 in Figure 13 is completed, the process shown in the flowchart in Figure 13 is finished.

[0077] Figure 14 shows a second embodiment and illustrates an example of a manual start instruction signal 1400 that the printer (printing device) 200 transmits to the terminal device (information processing device) 100 with which it is communicating when the HELP button 450 is pressed in the state shown in Figure 5.

[0078] The manual start command signal 1400 shown in Figure 14 includes, in addition to the information of the manual start command signal 1100 shown in Figure 11, "Model" information indicating the model name of the printer 200 and "Language" information indicating the display language of the printer 200. Specifically, as an example, the manual start command signal 1400 shown in Figure 14 shows "Model:X5000," where the model name of the printer 200 is X5000. Also, as an example, the manual start command signal 1400 shown in Figure 14 shows "Language:France," where the display language of the printer 200 is French.

[0079] Figure 15 shows a control method for the printing system 10 according to the second embodiment, and is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 when a manual start instruction signal 1400 is transmitted from a connected printer (printing device) 200. Note that in the flowchart shown in Figure 15, the same step numbers are used for processes that are the same as those in the flowchart shown in Figure 12, and a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0080] When the process shown in the flowchart in Figure 15 is initiated, the same process as in step S1201 in Figure 12 is performed.

[0081] In step S1201 of Figure 15, if the communication unit 160 (application 102) determines that it has received a manual start instruction signal 1400 from the connected printer (printing device) 200 (S1201 / Yes), the process proceeds to S1501. At this time, the communication unit 160 of the terminal device (information processing device) 100, which processes the reception of the manual start instruction signal 1400, constitutes a receiving means.

[0082] When the process proceeds to step S1501 in Figure 15, the CPU 110 prompts the user to select whether the display language of the manual information displayed on the display unit 150 should be the display language of the terminal device 100 or the display language of the printer 200.

[0083] Figure 16 shows a second embodiment and is a diagram showing an example of a selection screen displayed on the display unit 150 of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 to allow the user to select a display language in step S1501 of Figure 15. The selection screen of the display unit 150 shown in Figure 16 is provided with a button 1601 that the user operates when selecting the display language of the terminal device 100 as the display language for manual information, and a button 1602 that the user operates when selecting the display language of the printer 200.

[0084] In this embodiment, the CPU 110 performs a process to select which display language—the display language of the terminal device 100 or the display language of the printer 200—to use to display the manual information, based on the user's selection operation using the selection screen shown in Figure 16. The CPU 110 of the terminal device (information processing device) 100, which performs this display language selection process, constitutes a selection means.

[0085] Now, let's return to the explanation of Figure 15. Once the process in step S1501 in Figure 15 is completed, the process proceeds to step S1502. When the process proceeds to step S1502 in Figure 15, the CPU 110 determines whether or not to set the display language of the manual information to the display language of the terminal device 100, based on the user's selection operation using the selection screen shown in Figure 16.

[0086] In step S1502 of Figure 15, if the CPU 110 determines that the display language of the manual information should be the display language of the terminal device 100 (S1502 / Yes), the process proceeds to step S1503. When the process proceeds to step S1503 in Figure 15, the display unit 150 displays the manual ID, the model name of the printer 200, and the printer 200 manual information in the display language of the terminal device 100, based on the manual start instruction signal 1400 received by the communication unit 160.

[0087] Furthermore, in step S1502 of Figure 15, if the CPU 110 determines that the display language of the manual information should not be the display language of the terminal device 100 (but rather the display language of the printer 200) (S1502 / No), the process proceeds to step S1504. When the process proceeds to step S1504 in Figure 15, the display unit 150 displays the manual ID, the model name of the printer 200, and the printer 200's display language, based on the manual start instruction signal 1400 received by the communication unit 160.

[0088] When the processing in step S1503 or step S1504 in Figure 15 is completed, the processing in the flowchart shown in Figure 15 is completed. Note that in step S1503 or step S1504 in Figure 15, the display unit 150 of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 that displays manual information constitutes a second display means.

[0089] In the printing system 10 according to the second embodiment described above, the manual start instruction signal 1400 includes a manual ID to identify which manual for the printer (printing device) 200, the model name of the printer 200, and information on the display language of the printer 200. The CPU 110 of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 then performs a process to select whether to display the manual information in the display language of the terminal device 100 or the display language of the printer 200. The display unit 150 of the terminal device 100 then displays the manual information in the display language selected by the CPU 110, and also displays the manual ID and the model name of the printer 200 included in the manual start instruction signal 1400. According to the second embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment described above, when displaying manual information on the display unit 150 of the terminal device 100, it becomes possible to display the manual information for the most suitable model in the most suitable language.

[0090] (Third embodiment) Next, a third embodiment will be described. In the description of the third embodiment below, matters common to the first and second embodiments described above will be omitted, and matters that differ from the first and second embodiments described above will be explained.

[0091] The schematic configuration of the printing system according to the third embodiment is the same as the schematic configuration of the printing system 10 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 1. The hardware configuration of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 according to the third embodiment is the same as the hardware configuration of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 2. The hardware configuration of the printer (printing device) 200 according to the third embodiment is the same as the hardware configuration of the printer (printing device) 200 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 3.

[0092] In the first embodiment described above, it was assumed that the ROM 230 of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 contained manual information for the printer (printing device) 200. However, there may be cases where the manual information for the printer 200 is not stored. Therefore, in the third embodiment, a configuration is described in which the manual information for the printer 200, which is available on a web page, is displayed even when the ROM 230 of the terminal device 100 does not contain the manual information for the printer 200.

[0093] Figure 17 shows a third embodiment and illustrates an example of a manual start instruction signal 1700 that the printer (printing device) 200 transmits to the terminal device (information processing device) 100 with which it is communicating when the HELP button 450 is pressed in the state shown in Figure 5.

[0094] The manual start instruction signal 1700 shown in Figure 17 includes, in addition to the information of the manual start instruction signal 1100 shown in Figure 11, the URL of the web page where the manual information to be displayed is located.

[0095] Figure 18 shows a control method for the printing system 10 according to the third embodiment, and is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 when a manual start instruction signal 1700 is transmitted from a connected printer (printing device) 200. Note that in the flowchart shown in Figure 18, the same step numbers are used for processes that are the same as those in the flowchart shown in Figure 12, and a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0096] When the process shown in the flowchart in Figure 18 is initiated, the same process as in step S1201 in Figure 12 is performed.

[0097] In step S1201 of Figure 18, if the communication unit 160 (application 102) determines that it has received a manual start instruction signal 1700 from the connected printer (printing device) 200 (S1201 / Yes), the process proceeds to S1801. At this time, the communication unit 160 of the terminal device (information processing device) 100, which processes the reception of the manual start instruction signal 1700, constitutes a receiving means.

[0098] When the process proceeds to step S1801 in Figure 18, the CPU 110 determines whether or not the ROM 230 of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 contains manual information for the printer (printing device) 200.

[0099] In step S1801 of Figure 18, if the CPU 110 determines that the ROM 230 of the terminal device 100 contains the manual information for the printer 200 (S1801 / Yes), the process proceeds to step S1802. When the process proceeds to step S1802 in Figure 18, the display unit 150 displays the information of the page in the manual stored in the ROM 230 that is identified by the manual ID included in the manual activation instruction signal 1700, as manual information.

[0100] In step S1801 of Figure 18, if the CPU 110 determines that the ROM 230 of the terminal device 100 does not contain manual information for the printer 200 (S1801 / No), the process proceeds to step S1803. When the process proceeds to step S1803 in Figure 18, the display unit 150 displays the manual information located in the URL of the web page included in the manual start instruction signal 1700.

[0101] When the processing in step S1802 or step S1803 in Figure 18 is completed, the processing in the flowchart shown in Figure 18 is completed. In step S1802 or step S1803 in Figure 18, the display unit 150 of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 that displays manual information constitutes a second display means.

[0102] In the printing system 10 according to the third embodiment described above, the manual start instruction signal 1700 includes a manual ID for identifying which printer (printing device) 200 manual it is and information about the URL of the web page where the manual information is located. The display unit 150 of the terminal device 100 displays the manual information located at the URL of the web page included in the manual start instruction signal 1700 if the printer 200 manual is not stored in the device. According to the third embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment described above, it is possible to display web-based manual information even if the terminal device 100 does not have the printer 200 manual stored on it.

[0103] The third embodiment may be implemented in combination with the second embodiment described above.

[0104] (Fourth embodiment) Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. In the description of the fourth embodiment below, matters common to the first to third embodiments described above will be omitted, and matters that differ from the first to third embodiments described above will be explained.

[0105] The schematic configuration of the printing system according to the fourth embodiment is the same as the schematic configuration of the printing system 10 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 1. The hardware configuration of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 according to the fourth embodiment is the same as the hardware configuration of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 2. The hardware configuration of the printer (printing device) 200 according to the fourth embodiment is the same as the hardware configuration of the printer (printing device) 200 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 3.

[0106] In the first embodiment described above, a manual start instruction signal was sent to a terminal device (information processing device) 100 that is connected to the printer 200 when the HELP button 450, a predetermined button on the printer 200, was pressed. In the fourth embodiment, a configuration is described in which a manual start instruction signal is automatically sent even if the HELP button 450 on the printer 200 is not pressed, for example, when an error such as no paper or a paper jam occurs while the printer 200 is printing.

[0107] Figure 19 shows a control method for the printing system 10 according to the fourth embodiment, and is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing performed by the printer (printing device) 200 when an error occurs in the printer 200. In the flowchart shown in Figure 19, the same step numbers are used for processes that are the same as those in the flowchart shown in Figure 10.

[0108] First, in step S1901 in Figure 19, the CPU 210 determines whether or not an error has occurred in the printer (printing device) 200 of its own device. If the CPU 210 determines in step S1901 in Figure 19 that no error has occurred in the printer 200 of its own device (S1901 / No), it waits in S1901.

[0109] Furthermore, in step S1901 of Figure 19, if the CPU 210 determines that an error has occurred in the printer 200 of its own device (S1901 / Yes), the process proceeds to S1001. When the process proceeds to step S1001 in Figure 19, the input / output interface 250 transmits a manual startup instruction signal from the printer 200's manual to the connected terminal device (information processing device) 100, based on the control of the CPU 210. Specifically, in step S1001, the input / output interface 250 transmits a manual startup instruction signal that includes manual ID information to identify which printer 200 manual it is. The input / output interface 250 of the printer 200 that transmits the manual startup instruction signal in step S1001 of Figure 19 constitutes a transmission means.

[0110] In this embodiment, during step S1001 in Figure 19, the information display unit 410 of the operation panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 displays the information related to the manual startup instruction signal described above, based on the control of the CPU 210. The information display unit 410 of the printer 200 that displays this information related to the manual startup instruction signal constitutes the first display means.

[0111] Once the process in step S1001 in Figure 19 is completed, the process shown in the flowchart in Figure 19 is finished.

[0112] In the printing system 10 according to the fourth embodiment described above, the input / output interface 250 of the printer (printing device) 200 transmits a manual start instruction signal to the terminal device 100 with which it is connected when an error occurs in the printer 200 of the device. According to the fourth embodiment, even if the user does not press the HELP button 450 on the printer 200, if an error occurs in the printer 200, a manual start instruction signal can be automatically sent to the connected terminal device 100. This makes it possible to automatically display the manual information for the printer 200 on the terminal device 100 without user intervention.

[0113] (Fifth embodiment) Next, a fifth embodiment will be described. In the description of the fifth embodiment below, matters common to the first to fourth embodiments described above will be omitted, and matters that differ from the first to fourth embodiments described above will be explained.

[0114] The schematic configuration of the printing system according to the fifth embodiment is the same as the schematic configuration of the printing system 10 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 1. The hardware configuration of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 according to the fifth embodiment is the same as the hardware configuration of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 2. The hardware configuration of the printer (printing device) 200 according to the fifth embodiment is the same as the hardware configuration of the printer (printing device) 200 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 3.

[0115] In the first embodiment described above, a manual start instruction signal was sent to a terminal device (information processing device) 100 that was connected to the printer (printing device) 200 via communication. In this case, for example, if multiple terminal devices 100-1 to 100-3 are connected to the printer 200 via communication, a manual start instruction signal is sent to all terminal devices 100-1 to 100-3, and the manual information for the printer 200 is displayed. In this case, the manual information for the printer 200 is also displayed to terminal devices 100 used by users other than the user using the printer 200. Therefore, the fifth embodiment describes an embodiment in which the manual information for the printer 200 is displayed only to the terminal device 100 used by the user using the printer 200. Specifically, in the fifth embodiment, the user enters a user ID into the printer 200 before using the functions of the printer 200.

[0116] Figure 20 shows an example of the operation panel 260 of a printer (printing device) 200 according to the fifth embodiment, and is a diagram showing an example of displaying a message for entering a user ID on the information display unit 410. In Figure 20, the same reference numerals are used for the same components as those shown in Figures 4 to 6 and Figure 8, and their detailed explanations are omitted.

[0117] The information display unit 410 shown in Figure 20 displays a message prompting the user to enter a user ID. Specifically, the information display unit 410 in Figure 20 shows the case where "AAA" is entered as the user ID. When the user presses the OK button 420 on the operation panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 shown in Figure 20, the user ID input (registration) is completed.

[0118] Figure 21 shows an example of the operation panel 260 of a printer (printing device) 200 according to the fifth embodiment, and is a diagram showing an example of displaying a message on the information display unit 410 to register a terminal device (information processing device) 100 that is used by the user and is connected to the printer 200. In Figure 21, the same reference numerals are used for the same components as those shown in Figures 4 to 6, Figure 8 and Figure 20, and their detailed explanations are omitted.

[0119] Figure 21 shows the information display unit 410, which displays the case where "PC-AAA" is entered as the terminal device (information processing device) 100 used by the user and connected to the printer (printing device) 200. When the user presses the OK button 420 on the operation panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 shown in Figure 21, the input (registration) of the terminal device 100 used by the user and connected to the printer 200 is completed.

[0120] Figure 22 shows an example of a mapping information table 2200, which is stored in the ROM 230 of a printer (printing device) 200 according to the fifth embodiment, and associates user information with information of the user's terminal device (information processing device) 100. In this embodiment, the ROM 230 of the printer (printing device) 200 that holds the mapping information table 2200 shown in Figure 22 constitutes a holding means.

[0121] Specifically, the mapping information table 2200 shown in Figure 22 illustrates an example where "User ID Name" is applied as user information and "Terminal Device" is applied as information for the user's terminal device (information processing device) 100. The printer (printing device) 200 updates and maintains the mapping information table 2200 shown in Figure 22 as needed. More specifically, the mapping information table 2200 shown in Figure 22 registers two sets of mapping information: "User ID Name: AAA, Terminal Device: PC-AAA" and "User ID Name: BBB, Terminal Device: PC-BBB".

[0122] Figure 23 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for the printing system 10 according to the fifth embodiment, showing an example of the processing performed by the printer 200 when the HELP button 450 on the operation panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 is pressed.

[0123] In the fifth embodiment, if the user presses the HELP button 450 on the control panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200, the process proceeds to step S2301 in Figure 23. When the process proceeds to step S2301 in Figure 23, the CPU 210 searches for a terminal device (information processing device) 100 belonging to a user currently using the printer 200, which is connected to the printer 200 in communication. Here, the user currently using the printer 200 is the user with the user ID entered and registered in the information display unit 410 shown in Figure 20. The CPU 210 then uses the mapping information table 2200 shown in Figure 22 to search for a terminal device 100 associated with the user ID entered and registered in the information display unit 410 shown in Figure 20.

[0124] Next, in step S2302 of Figure 23, the CPU 210 determines, based on the results of the search in step S2301, whether or not there is a terminal device 100 associated with the user ID of the user currently using the printer 200.

[0125] In step S2302 of Figure 23, if the CPU 210 determines that there is a terminal device 100 associated with the user ID of the user currently using the printer 200 (S2302 / Yes), the process proceeds to step S2303. When the process proceeds to step S2303 in Figure 23, the input / output interface 250 transmits a manual startup instruction signal from the printer 200's manual to the terminal device (information processing device) 100, which is associated with the user ID of the user currently using the printer 200. For example, in the association information table 2200 shown in 22, if the user ID of the user currently using the printer 200 is "AAA", the manual startup instruction signal is transmitted to the terminal device "PC-AAA". Specifically, in step S2303, the input / output interface 250 transmits a manual startup instruction signal that includes information about the manual ID to identify which manual for the printer 200 is being referred to. The input / output interface 250 of the printer 200 that transmits the manual startup instruction signal in step S2303 of Figure 23 constitutes a transmission means.

[0126] In this embodiment, during step S2303 in Figure 23, the information display unit 410 of the operation panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 displays the information related to the manual startup instruction signal described above, based on the control of the CPU 210. The information display unit 410 of the printer 200 that displays this information related to the manual startup instruction signal constitutes the first display means.

[0127] Furthermore, in step S2302 of Figure 23, if the CPU 210 determines that there is no terminal device 100 associated with the user ID of the user currently using the printer 200 (S2302 / No), the process proceeds to step S2304. When the process proceeds to step S2304 in Figure 23, the information display unit 410 of the control panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 displays an error message based on the control of the CPU 210.

[0128] Figure 24 shows an example of the operation panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 according to the fifth embodiment, and is a display example showing the display of error message information on the information display unit 410 in step S2304 of Figure 23. In Figure 24, the same reference numerals are used for the same components as those shown in Figures 4 to 6, 8, 20 and 21, and their detailed explanations are omitted.

[0129] The information display unit 410 shown in Figure 24 displays an error message indicating that the terminal device 100 of the user currently using the printer 200 cannot be found.

[0130] Now, let's return to the explanation of Figure 23. When the process in step S2303 or step S2304 in Figure 23 is completed, the process in the flowchart shown in Figure 23 is completed.

[0131] In the printing system 10 according to the fifth embodiment described above, the printer (printing device) 200 is equipped with a ROM 230 (holding means) that holds a mapping information table 2200 which associates user information with information on the user's information processing device. The input / output I / F 250 (transmission means) of the printer 200 uses the mapping information table 2200 to identify the terminal device (information processing device) 100 associated with the user information input to the printer 200. The input / output I / F 250 (transmission means) of the printer 200 then transmits a manual startup instruction signal from the printer 200 manual to the identified terminal device 100 (S2303 in Figure 23). The information display unit 410 (first display means) of the printer 200 displays error information if there is no terminal device 100 associated with the user information input to the printer 200 in the mapping information table 2200 (S2304 in Figure 23). According to the fifth embodiment, it is possible to display the printer 200's manual information only on the terminal device 100 of the user currently using the printer 200.

[0132] The fifth embodiment may be implemented in combination with the second to fourth embodiments described above.

[0133] (Sixth embodiment) Next, the sixth embodiment will be described. In the description of the sixth embodiment below, matters common to the first to fifth embodiments described above will be omitted, and matters that differ from the first to fifth embodiments described above will be explained.

[0134] In the sixth embodiment, a configuration is described in which a manual start instruction signal is transmitted from the printer (printing device) 200 to the terminal device (information processing device) 100 via a server device (specifically, a push notification server in this embodiment) that is connected to the Internet.

[0135] Figure 25 shows an example of the schematic configuration of the printing system 10 according to the sixth embodiment. In the following description, the printing system 10 according to the sixth embodiment will be referred to as "printing system 10-6" as needed, as shown in Figure 25. Also, in Figure 25, the same reference numerals are used for components that are the same as those shown in Figure 1, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0136] The printing system 10-6 includes a terminal device (information processing device) 100 and a printer (printing device) 200, similar to the components shown in Figure 1, as well as an internet 300 and a push notification server (server device) 400. The terminal device 100 and the printer 200 can communicate with the push notification server 400 via the internet 300. The internet 300 is an internet that connects the terminal device 100, the printer 200, and the push notification server 400 so that they can communicate with each other.

[0137] Here, the hardware configuration of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 according to the sixth embodiment is the same as the hardware configuration of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 2. The hardware configuration of the printer (printing device) 200 according to the sixth embodiment is the same as the hardware configuration of the printer (printing device) 200 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 3.

[0138] The push notification server 400 is a server device equipped with the function of delivering push notifications to, for example, a user's terminal device (information processing device) 100. When the user's terminal device 100 allows notifications to be sent to the application 102, identification information for the terminal device 100 is sent to and registered with the push notification server 400. As a result, the push notification server 400 sends a push notification to the registered terminal device 100, and the push notification is delivered to the registered terminal device 100. When the OS 101 of the terminal device 100 receives a push notification from the push notification server 400, it displays the push notification on the display unit 150 of the terminal device 100.

[0139] Figure 26 shows an example of the display of a push notification from a push notification server (server device) 400 in the display unit 150 of a terminal device (information processing device) 100 according to the sixth embodiment. Specifically, the display unit 150 of the terminal device 100 shown in Figure 26 displays a push notification 2601 received from the push notification server 400. When the user selects the push notification 2601 displayed on the display unit 150, the OS 101 of the terminal device 100 starts application 102, and application 102 processes the contents of the push notification 2601.

[0140] Figure 27 is a flowchart showing a control method for the printing system 10 according to the sixth embodiment, and is an example of the processing performed by the printer 200 when the HELP button 450 on the operation panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 is pressed.

[0141] In the sixth embodiment, if the user presses the HELP button 450 on the control panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200, the process proceeds to step S2701 in Figure 27. When the process proceeds to step S2701 in Figure 27, the input / output interface 250 transmits a manual startup instruction signal as a push notification to the push notification server (server device) 400, which is connected via the Internet 300. The manual startup instruction signal transmitted in step S2701 is the same as the manual startup instruction signal described in any of the first to fifth embodiments described above, so its explanation is omitted. The input / output interface 250 of the printer 200 that transmits the manual startup instruction signal in step S2701 of Figure 27 constitutes the transmission means.

[0142] In this embodiment, during step S2701 in Figure 27, the information display unit 410 of the operation panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 displays the information related to the manual startup instruction signal described above, based on the control of the CPU 210. The information display unit 410 of the printer 200 that displays this information related to the manual startup instruction signal constitutes the first display means.

[0143] Once the process in step S2701 in Figure 27 is completed, the process shown in the flowchart in Figure 27 is completed.

[0144] Figure 28 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for the printing system 10 according to the sixth embodiment, and shows an example of the processing of the push notification server (server device) 400 when a manual start instruction signal is sent from the printer (printing device) 200.

[0145] In step S2801 of Figure 28, the push notification server (server device) 400 determines whether or not it has received a manual start command signal from the printer 200, which is connected via the Internet 300. In step S2801 of Figure 28, if the push notification server 400 determines that it has not received a manual start command signal from the printer 200 via the Internet 300 (S2801 / No), it waits in S2801.

[0146] Furthermore, in step S2801 of Figure 28, if the push notification server 400 determines that it has received a manual start instruction signal from the printer 200 via the internet 300 (S2801 / Yes), the process proceeds to S2802. When the process proceeds to step S2802 in Figure 28, the push notification server (server device) 400 sends a manual startup instruction signal as a push notification to the terminal device (information processing device) 100, which is connected to the internet 300.

[0147] Once the process in step S2802 in Figure 28 is completed, the process shown in the flowchart in Figure 28 is completed.

[0148] Figure 29 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for the printing system 10 according to the sixth embodiment, showing an example of the processing performed by the terminal device (information processing device) 100 when a push notification is sent from the push notification server (server device) 400.

[0149] In step S2901 of Figure 29, the CPU 110 (application 102 launched from OS 101) determines the content of the push notification sent from the push notification server (server device) 400.

[0150] Next, in step S2902 of Figure 29, the CPU 110 determines whether the content of the push notification determined in step S2901 is a manual display process based on the manual activation instruction signal described above.

[0151] In step S2902 of Figure 29, if the CPU 110 determines that the content of the push notification determined in step S2901 is a manual display process based on the manual startup instruction signal described above (S2902 / Yes), the process proceeds to S2903. When the process proceeds to step S2903 in Figure 29, the display unit 150 displays the information of the page in the manual stored in the ROM 230 that is identified by the manual ID included in the manual activation instruction signal related to the push notification, as manual information. Note that in step S2903 in Figure 29, the display unit 150 of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 that displays the manual information constitutes a second display means.

[0152] When the process in step S2903 in Figure 29 is completed, the process in the flowchart shown in Figure 29 is completed. Also, in step S2902 in Figure 29, if the CPU 110 determines that the content of the push notification is not a manual display process based on the manual activation instruction signal described above (S2902 / No), the process in the flowchart shown in Figure 29 is completed. Note that in step S2902 in Figure 29, if a negative determination is made (S2902 / No), the process in the flowchart shown in Figure 29 is not completed, and other processes indicated by the content of the push notification are executed.

[0153] The printing system 10 according to the sixth embodiment described above includes, in addition to the terminal device (information processing device) 100 and printer (printing device) 200 in the first embodiment, an internet 300 and a push notification server (server device) 400. The input / output I / F 250 (transmission means) of the printer 200 transmits a manual startup instruction signal for the printer 200 to the terminal device 100 via the push notification server 400, which is another device (Figures 27 and 28). Specifically, in the sixth embodiment, the input / output I / F 250 (transmission means) of the printer 200 transmits a manual startup instruction signal to the push notification server 400, which is another device (S2701 in Figure 27). The push notification server 400 then transmits the manual startup instruction signal received from the printer 200 to the terminal device 100 (S2802 in Figure 28). The communication unit 160 (receiving means) of the terminal device 100 then receives the manual startup instruction signal from the push notification server 400. Then, the display unit 150 (second display means) of the terminal device 100 displays the manual information from the printer 200 manual based on the received manual start instruction signal. According to the sixth embodiment, similar to the first embodiment, even if the display area of ​​the information display unit 410 of the printer 200 is small and detailed manual information cannot be fully displayed, detailed manual information can be presented to the user in an easy-to-understand manner.

[0154] The sixth embodiment may be implemented in combination with the second to fifth embodiments described above.

[0155] (Seventh Embodiment) Next, the seventh embodiment will be described. In the description of the seventh embodiment below, matters common to the first to sixth embodiments described above will be omitted, and only matters that differ from the first to sixth embodiments described above will be explained.

[0156] The schematic configuration of the printing system according to the seventh embodiment is the same as the schematic configuration of the printing system 10 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 1. The hardware configuration of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 according to the seventh embodiment is the same as the hardware configuration of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 2. The hardware configuration of the printer (printing device) 200 according to the seventh embodiment is the same as the hardware configuration of the printer (printing device) 200 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 3.

[0157] In the first embodiment described above, a configuration was described in which the manual information for the printer 200 is displayed on the display unit 150 of the terminal device 100 when the HELP button 450 of the printer (printing device) 200 is operated. In the seventh embodiment, a configuration is described in which the information display unit 410 of the printer 200 also displays message information indicating that the manual information has been displayed on the terminal device 100, as well as summary manual information showing an overview of the manual information, thereby providing more user-friendly information.

[0158] Figure 30 is a flowchart showing a control method for the printing system 10 according to the seventh embodiment, and is a first example of the processing performed by the printer 200 when the HELP button 450 on the operation panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 is pressed. In the flowchart shown in Figure 30, the same step numbers are used for processes that are the same as those in the flowchart shown in Figure 10, and a detailed explanation of these is omitted.

[0159] When the flowchart shown in Figure 30 is initiated, the same process as in step S1001 in Figure 10 is performed. Specifically, in step S1001 in Figure 30, the input / output I / F 250 transmits a manual startup instruction signal containing manual ID information to the connected terminal device (information processing device) 100.

[0160] Next, in step S3001 of Figure 30, the information display unit 410 of the printer 200 displays message information indicating that manual information has been displayed on the terminal device 100, as information related to the manual startup instruction signal, based on the control of the CPU 210. In step S3001 of Figure 30, the information display unit 410 of the printer 200 that displays the message information constitutes the first display means.

[0161] Once the process in step S3001 in Figure 30 is completed, the process shown in the flowchart in Figure 30 is completed.

[0162] Figure 31 shows an example of the operation panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 according to the seventh embodiment, and is a diagram showing an example of displaying message information on the information display unit 410 in step S3001 of Figure 30. In Figure 31, the same reference numerals are used for the same components as those shown in Figures 4 to 6, 8, 20, 21 and 24, and their detailed explanations are omitted.

[0163] As shown in Figure 31, the information display unit 410 displays message information indicating that manual information has been displayed on the terminal device 100. As shown in Figure 31, by displaying the above-mentioned message information on the information display unit 410, the user can understand that manual information has been displayed on the terminal device 100.

[0164] Figure 32 is a flowchart showing a control method for the printing system 10 according to the seventh embodiment, and is a second example of the processing performed by the printer 200 when the HELP button 450 on the operation panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 is pressed. In the flowchart shown in Figure 32, the same step numbers are used for processes that are the same as those in the flowchart shown in Figure 10, and a detailed explanation of these is omitted.

[0165] When the flowchart shown in Figure 32 is initiated, the same process as in step S1001 in Figure 10 is performed. That is, in step S1001 in Figure 32, the input / output I / F 250 transmits a manual startup instruction signal containing manual ID information to the connected terminal device (information processing device) 100.

[0166] Next, in step S3201 of Figure 32, the information display unit 410 of the printer 200 displays a summary manual information, which is an outline of the manual information described above, as information related to the manual start instruction signal, based on the control of the CPU 210. In step S3201 of Figure 32, the information display unit 410 of the printer 200 that displays the summary manual information constitutes the first display means.

[0167] Once the process in step S3201 in Figure 32 is completed, the process shown in the flowchart in Figure 32 is completed.

[0168] Figure 33 shows an example of the operation panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 according to the seventh embodiment, and is a display example showing the display of general manual information on the information display unit 410 in step S3201 of Figure 32. In Figure 33, the same reference numerals are used for the same components as those shown in Figures 4 to 6, 8, 20, 21, 24 and 31, and their detailed explanations are omitted.

[0169] The information display unit 410 shown in Figure 33 displays summary manual information, which is an overview of the manual information for the printer 200 displayed on the display unit 150 of the terminal device 100. The summary manual information displayed on the information display unit 410 shown in Figure 33 is, for example, the information that is displayed when the printer 200 jams and an error occurs while printing or copying, and the user presses the HELP button 450.

[0170] In the seventh embodiment described above, the information display unit (first display means) 410 of the printer 200 displays summary manual information, which is an outline of the manual information displayed on the communication-connected terminal device 100, as information related to the manual startup instruction signal. The information display unit (first display means) 410 of the printer 200 also displays message information, which is an outline of the manual information displayed on the communication-connected terminal device 100, as information related to the manual startup instruction signal. According to the seventh embodiment, more user-friendly information can be provided to users of the printer 200.

[0171] The seventh embodiment may be implemented in combination with the second to sixth embodiments described above.

[0172] (Eighth embodiment) Next, the eighth embodiment will be described. In the description of the eighth embodiment below, matters common to the first to seventh embodiments described above will be omitted, and matters that differ from the first to seventh embodiments described above will be explained.

[0173] The schematic configuration of the printing system according to the eighth embodiment is the same as the schematic configuration of the printing system 10 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 1. The hardware configuration of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 according to the eighth embodiment is the same as the hardware configuration of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 2. The hardware configuration of the printer (printing device) 200 according to the eighth embodiment is the same as the hardware configuration of the printer (printing device) 200 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 3.

[0174] In the seventh embodiment described above, when the HELP button 450, a predetermined button on the printer (printing device) 200, was pressed, a manual start instruction signal was sent to the terminal device (information processing device) 100. Furthermore, in the seventh embodiment, when the HELP button 450 of the printer 200 was pressed, the information display unit 410 of the operation panel 260 displayed a summary of the manual information to be displayed on the connected terminal device 100. In this case, it is conceivable that the user could resolve the issue by looking at the summary manual information displayed on the information display unit 410 of the printer 200's operation panel 260. The eighth embodiment describes an embodiment in which the user is asked to first check the summary manual information displayed on the information display unit 410 before the manual information is displayed on the display unit 150 of the terminal device 100.

[0175] Figure 34 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for the printing system 10 according to the eighth embodiment, showing an example of the processing performed by the printer 200 when the HELP button 450 on the operation panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 is pressed.

[0176] First, in step S3401 of Figure 34, the information display unit 410 of the printer 200's operation panel 260 displays simplified summary manual information, which shows an overview of the manual information in the printer 200's manual, based on the control of the CPU 210.

[0177] Next, in step S3402 of Figure 34, the CPU 210 determines whether the user has pressed the HELP button 450 on the control panel 260 again.

[0178] In step S3402 of Figure 34, if the CPU 210 determines that the user has pressed the HELP button 450 on the control panel 260 again (S3402 / Yes), the process proceeds to S3403. When the process proceeds to step S3403 in Figure 34, the input / output interface 250 of the printer 200 transmits a manual activation instruction signal containing manual ID information to the connected terminal device (information processing device) 100. Subsequently, the display unit 150 of the terminal device 100 displays the information of the page in the manual stored in the ROM 230 that is identified by the manual ID included in the manual activation instruction signal related to the push notification, as manual information.

[0179] When the process in step S3403 in Figure 34 is completed, the process in the flowchart shown in Figure 34 is completed. Also, in step S3402 in Figure 34, if the CPU 210 determines that the user has not pressed the HELP button 450 on the operation panel 260 again (S3402 / No), the process in the flowchart shown in Figure 34 is completed. If a negative determination is made in S3402 in Figure 34 (S3402 / No), it can be assumed that the user has resolved the issue by looking at the simplified summary manual information displayed on the information display unit 410 of the printer 200, and unnecessary processing in the terminal device 100 can be avoided.

[0180] In the eighth embodiment described above, the printer 200 performs the following processing when the HELP button 450 (a predetermined button) of the printer 200 is operated before the input / output I / F 250 (transmission means) transmits the manual start instruction signal. Specifically, the information display unit 410 of the operation panel 260 of the printer 200 displays simplified summary manual information, which shows an outline of the manual information, as information related to the manual start instruction signal. Subsequently, when the HELP button 450 of the printer 200 is operated again, the input / output I / F 250 (transmission means) of the printer 200 transmits a manual start instruction signal to the terminal device (information processing device) 100 with which it is communicating. According to the eighth embodiment, the user can first check the summary manual information displayed on the information display unit 410 of the printer 200, and in some cases, unnecessary processing on the terminal device 100 can be avoided.

[0181] The eighth embodiment may be implemented in combination with the second to sixth embodiments described above.

[0182] (Ninth embodiment) Next, the ninth embodiment will be described. In the description of the ninth embodiment below, matters common to the first to eighth embodiments described above will be omitted, and only matters that differ from the first to eighth embodiments described above will be explained.

[0183] The schematic configuration of the printing system according to the ninth embodiment is the same as the schematic configuration of the printing system 10 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 1. The hardware configuration of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 according to the ninth embodiment is the same as the hardware configuration of the terminal device (information processing device) 100 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 2. The hardware configuration of the printer (printing device) 200 according to the ninth embodiment is the same as the hardware configuration of the printer (printing device) 200 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 3.

[0184] In the ninth embodiment, when the HELP button 450 of the printer (printing device) 200 is pressed, if there is no terminal device 100 that is already connected to the printer 200, a configuration is described in which the printer 200 is guided to establish a communication connection with the terminal device 100.

[0185] Figure 35 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for the printing system 10 according to the ninth embodiment, showing an example of the processing performed by the printer 200 when the HELP button 450 on the operation panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 is pressed.

[0186] First, in step S3501 of Figure 35, the CPU 210 of the printer 200 searches to see if there is a terminal device 100 that is currently communicating with the printer 200.

[0187] Next, in step S3502 of Figure 35, the CPU 210 determines, based on the search results of step S3502, whether or not there is a terminal device 100 that is currently communicating with the printer 200.

[0188] In step S3502 of Figure 35, if the CPU 210 determines that there is no terminal device 100 currently connected to the printer 200 (S3502 / No), the process proceeds to S3503. When the process proceeds to step S3503 in Figure 35, the information display unit 410 of the printer 200 displays information guiding the communication connection between the printer 200 and the terminal device 100, based on the control of the CPU 210.

[0189] Figure 36 shows an example of the operation panel 260 of the printer (printing device) 200 according to the ninth embodiment, and is a diagram showing an example of displaying information on the information display unit 410 that guides the communication connection between the printer 200 and the terminal device 100 in step S3503 of Figure 35. In Figure 36, the same reference numerals are used for the same components as those shown in Figures 4 to 6, 8, 20, 21, 24, 31 and 33, and their detailed explanations are omitted.

[0190] The information display unit 410 shown in Figure 36 displays information guiding users through the communication connection between the printer 200 and the terminal device 100.

[0191] Now, let's return to the explanation of Figure 35. Once the process in step S3503 in Figure 35 is completed, the process proceeds to step S3504. When the process proceeds to step S3504 in Figure 35, the CPU 210 determines whether or not the communication connection between the printer 200 and the terminal device 100 has been completed. If the CPU 210 determines in step S3504 of Figure 35 that the communication connection between the printer 200 and the terminal device 100 has not been completed (S3504 / No), it waits in step S3504.

[0192] In step S3504 of Figure 35, if the CPU 210 determines that the communication connection between the printer 200 and the terminal device 100 is complete (S3504 / Yes), the process proceeds to S3505. Also, in step S3502 of Figure 35, if the CPU 210 determines that there is a terminal device 100 currently connected to the printer 200 (S3502 / Yes), the process proceeds to S3505. When the process proceeds to step S3505 in Figure 35, the input / output interface 250 of the printer 200 transmits a manual activation instruction signal containing manual ID information to the connected terminal device (information processing device) 100. Subsequently, the display unit 150 of the terminal device 100 displays the information of the page in the manual stored in the ROM 230 that is identified by the manual ID included in the manual activation instruction signal related to the push notification, as manual information.

[0193] Once the process in step S3505 in Figure 35 is completed, the process shown in the flowchart in Figure 35 is finished.

[0194] In the ninth embodiment described above, the information display unit 410 (first display means) of the printer 200 displays information guiding the communication connection between the printer 200 and the terminal device 100 when there is no terminal device 100 connected to it (S3503 in Figure 35). Then, the input / output I / F 250 (transmission means) of the printer 200 transmits a manual start instruction signal to the terminal device 100 when the communication connection between the printer 200 and the terminal device 100 is completed (S3505 in Figure 35). According to the ninth embodiment, even if the display area of ​​the information display unit 410 of the printer 200 is small and detailed manual information cannot be fully displayed, detailed manual information can be reliably presented to the user in an easy-to-understand manner.

[0195] The ninth embodiment may be implemented in combination with the first to fifth embodiments and the seventh to eighth embodiments described above.

[0196] (Other embodiments) The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that implements one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and by having one or more processors in the computer of that system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., an ASIC) that implements one or more functions. This program and a computer-readable storage medium storing said program are included in the present invention.

[0197] The embodiments of the present invention described above are merely examples of how the invention can be implemented, and the technical scope of the invention should not be interpreted as being limited by them. In other words, the present invention can be implemented in various forms without departing from its technical concept or its main features.

[0198] This embodiment includes the following configurations, methods, and programs. [Configuration 1] A printing system comprising a printing device that performs printing, and an information processing device that communicates with the printing device, The aforementioned printing apparatus, A transmitting means for transmitting a manual start instruction signal in the manual for the printing device to the information processing device or to the information processing device via another device, The system includes a first display means for displaying information related to the manual start instruction signal, The aforementioned information processing device is Receiving means for receiving the manual start instruction signal, The receiving means includes a second display means that, when it receives the manual start instruction signal, displays manual information from the manual of the printing device based on the manual start instruction signal. A printing system characterized by the following features. [Configuration 2] The system further comprises a server device that communicates with the printing apparatus and the information processing apparatus, The transmitting means of the printing apparatus transmits the manual start instruction signal to the server device, which is the other device. The server device transmits the manual start instruction signal received from the printing device to the information processing device. The receiving means of the information processing device receives the manual startup instruction signal from the server device. The printing system according to configuration 1, characterized in that... [Configuration 3] The manual activation instruction signal includes a manual ID for identifying which manual of the printing device is being used. The second display means of the information processing device displays the manual information of the manual identified by the manual ID included in the manual start instruction signal. A printing system according to configuration 1 or 2, characterized by the above. [Structure 4] The manual start instruction signal includes a manual ID for identifying which manual of the printer is being used, the model name of the printer, and the display language of the printer. The information processing device further includes a selection means for selecting which of the display languages ​​of the information processing device and the display language of the printing device to display the manual information, The second display means of the information processing device displays the manual information in the display language selected by the selection means, and also displays the manual ID and the model name of the printing device. A printing system according to configuration 1 or 2, characterized by the above. [Composition 5] The manual activation instruction signal includes a manual ID for identifying which manual of the printing device it is, and the URL of the web page where the manual information is located. The second display means of the information processing device displays the manual information located in the URL of the web page included in the manual activation instruction signal when the information processing device does not have the manual for the printing device stored in it. A printing system according to configuration 1 or 2, characterized by the above. [Composition 6] The transmitting means of the printing apparatus transmits the manual start instruction signal when a predetermined button provided on the printing apparatus is operated. A printing system according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, characterized in that it is a printing system according to any one of these configurations. [Composition 7] The transmitting means of the printing apparatus transmits the manual start instruction signal when an error occurs in the printing apparatus. A printing system according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, characterized in that it is a printing system according to any one of these configurations. [Structure 8] The printing apparatus further comprises a holding means for holding correspondence information that associates user information with information on the user's information processing device, The transmitting means of the printing apparatus uses the correspondence information to identify the user's information processing device associated with the user's information input to the printing apparatus, and transmits the manual start instruction signal to the identified information processing device. A printing system according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, characterized by the above. [Composition 9] The first display means of the printing apparatus displays error information when there is no user information processing device associated with the user information input to the printing apparatus in the correspondence information. The printing system according to configuration 8, characterized in that [Configuration 10] The first display means of the printing apparatus displays summary manual information, which is an outline of the manual information, as information related to the manual start instruction signal. A printing system according to any one of configurations 1 to 9, characterized in that it is a printing system according to any one of these configurations. [Composition 11] The first display means of the printing apparatus displays message information indicating that the manual information has been displayed on the information processing device, as information related to the manual start instruction signal. A printing system according to any one of configurations 1 to 9, characterized in that it is a printing system according to any one of these configurations. [Composition 12] The first display means of the printing apparatus is Before the transmission means transmits the manual start instruction signal, if a predetermined button provided on the printing device is operated, the transmission means displays a summary of the manual information as information related to the manual start instruction signal. The transmitting means of the printing apparatus transmits the manual start instruction signal when the predetermined button provided on the printing apparatus is operated again. A printing system according to any one of configurations 1 to 11, characterized by the above. [Composition 13] The first display means of the printing apparatus displays information guiding the printing apparatus to establish a communication connection between the printing apparatus and the information processing apparatus when there is no information processing apparatus that is communicated with the printing apparatus. The transmitting means of the printing apparatus transmits the manual start instruction signal to the information processing device when the communication connection between the printing apparatus and the information processing device is completed. A printing system according to any one of configurations 1 to 12, characterized in that it is a printing system according to any one of configurations 1 to 12. [Method 1] A method for controlling a printing system having a printing device that performs printing and an information processing device that communicates with the printing device, The aforementioned printing apparatus, A transmission step of transmitting a manual start instruction signal in the manual for the printing device to the information processing device or to the information processing device via another device, A first display step is performed, which displays information related to the manual start instruction signal, The aforementioned information processing device is The manual start instruction signal is received, and the receiving step is as follows: If the manual start instruction signal is received in the receiving step, a second display step is performed in which the manual information in the manual of the printing device is displayed based on the manual start instruction signal. A method for controlling a printing system, characterized by the features described above. [Program 1] A program for causing a computer to function as one of the means of a printing system described in any one of configurations 1 to 13. [Explanation of symbols]

[0199] 10: Printing system, 100: Terminal device (information processing device), 101: Operating system (OS), 102: Application, 103: Printer driver, 110: CPU, 120: Memory unit, 130: Audio output unit, 140: Operation unit, 150: Display unit, 160: Communication unit, 170: Bus, 200: Printer (printing device), 210: CPU, 220: Print engine, 230: ROM, 240: RAM, 250: Input / output interface (input / output I / F), 260: Operation panel, 270: Bus, 410: Information display unit, 420: OK button, 430: Cancel button, 440: Select button, 450: Help button

Claims

1. A printing system comprising a printing device that performs printing, and an information processing device that communicates with the printing device, The aforementioned printing apparatus, A transmitting means for transmitting a manual start instruction signal in the manual for the printing device to the information processing device or to the information processing device via another device, It comprises a first display means for displaying information related to the manual start instruction signal, The aforementioned information processing device is Receiving means for receiving the manual start instruction signal, The receiving means includes a second display means that, upon receiving the manual start instruction signal, displays manual information from the manual of the printing device based on the manual start instruction signal. A printing system characterized by the following features.

2. The system further comprises a server device that communicates with the printing apparatus and the information processing apparatus, The transmitting means of the printing apparatus transmits the manual start instruction signal to the server device, which is the other device. The server device transmits the manual start instruction signal received from the printing device to the information processing device. The receiving means of the information processing device receives the manual startup instruction signal from the server device. The printing system according to feature 1.

3. The manual activation instruction signal includes a manual ID for identifying which manual of the printing device is being used. The second display means of the information processing device displays the manual information of the manual identified by the manual ID included in the manual start instruction signal. The printing system according to feature 1.

4. The manual activation instruction signal includes a manual ID for identifying which manual of the printer is being used, the model name of the printer, and the display language of the printer. The information processing device further includes a selection means for selecting which of the display languages ​​of the information processing device and the display language of the printing device to display the manual information, The second display means of the information processing device displays the manual information in the display language selected by the selection means, and also displays the manual ID and the model name of the printing device. The printing system according to feature 1.

5. The manual activation instruction signal includes a manual ID for identifying which manual of the printing device it is, and the URL of the web page where the manual information is located. The second display means of the information processing device displays the manual information located at the URL of the web page included in the manual activation instruction signal when the information processing device does not hold the manual for the printing device. The printing system according to feature 1.

6. The transmitting means of the printing apparatus transmits the manual start instruction signal when a predetermined button provided on the printing apparatus is operated. The printing system according to feature 1.

7. The transmitting means of the printing apparatus transmits the manual start instruction signal when an error occurs in the printing apparatus. The printing system according to feature 1.

8. The printing apparatus further comprises a holding means for holding correspondence information that associates user information with information on the user's information processing device, The transmitting means of the printing apparatus uses the correspondence information to identify the user's information processing device associated with the user's information input to the printing apparatus, and transmits the manual start instruction signal to the identified information processing device. The printing system according to feature 1.

9. The first display means of the printing apparatus displays error information when there is no user information processing device associated with the user information input to the printing apparatus in the correspondence information. The printing system according to feature 8.

10. The first display means of the printing apparatus displays summary manual information, which is an outline of the manual information, as information related to the manual start instruction signal. The printing system according to feature 1.

11. The first display means of the printing apparatus displays message information indicating that the manual information has been displayed on the information processing device, as information related to the manual start instruction signal. The printing system according to feature 1.

12. The first display means of the printing apparatus displays, as information relating to the manual start instruction signal, a summary manual information showing an outline of the manual information when a predetermined button provided on the printing apparatus is operated before the transmission means transmits the manual start instruction signal. The transmitting means of the printing apparatus transmits the manual start instruction signal when the predetermined button provided on the printing apparatus is operated again. The printing system according to feature 1.

13. The first display means of the printing apparatus displays information guiding the printing apparatus to establish a communication connection between the printing apparatus and the information processing apparatus when there is no information processing apparatus that is communicated with the printing apparatus. The transmitting means of the printing apparatus transmits the manual start instruction signal to the information processing device when the communication connection between the printing apparatus and the information processing device is completed. The printing system according to feature 1.

14. A method for controlling a printing system having a printing device that performs printing and an information processing device that communicates with the printing device, The aforementioned printing apparatus, A transmission step of transmitting a manual start instruction signal in the manual for the printing device to the information processing device or to the information processing device via another device, A first display step is performed, which displays information related to the manual start instruction signal, The aforementioned information processing device is The manual start instruction signal is received, and the receiving step is as follows: If the manual start instruction signal is received in the reception step, a second display step is performed in which the manual information in the manual of the printing device is displayed based on the manual start instruction signal. A method for controlling a printing system, characterized by the features described above.

15. A program for causing a computer to function as one of the means of a printing system according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

Images