Control method for a program and information processing device.

Abstract

To provide a program for setting values ​​in an image processing device, and a technique for improving the display in a dropdown list. [Solution] The printer setting program 22 is executable on PC1 and has the function of sending commands from PC1 to printer 3 to set the setting values ​​of various items. The printer setting program 22 can obtain the currently set setting values ​​from printer 3 and display a setting screen 50, which includes a drop-down list where the obtained setting values ​​are displayed, to user IF13. After the setting screen 50 is displayed, if an operation is performed on the drop-down list, the printer setting program 22 will display the current setting value of printer 3 if the displayed setting value is included in the first group, and if the displayed setting value is not included in the first group, it will replace it with one of the setting values ​​included in the first group and display that value.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technical field disclosed in this specification relates to a program for setting set values in an image processing apparatus connected to an information processing apparatus and a control method for the information processing apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a program for setting set values from an information processing apparatus to an image processing apparatus is known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration of a setting screen provided by a printer driver for controlling a printer, which accepts selection of a set value via a combo box.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In a setting screen, as an object for accepting one selection from a plurality of predetermined set values, a combo box or a drop-down list (also called a pull-down list, a pop-up list, or a pop-up menu) is known. When a program accepts selection of a set value using, for example, a drop-down list, the drop-down list may serve as both the display of the main body set value, which is the set value currently set in the image processing apparatus, and the display of a new set value to be set from the information processing apparatus to the image processing apparatus. In that case, there is room for improvement in the display in the drop-down list.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The program created to solve this problem is executable by an information processing device and has a setting function that causes the information processing device to send a setting command, which is a command to set a setting value for a predetermined item, to an image processing device connected via the communication interface of the information processing device, wherein the image processing device can set one of a plurality of pre-prepared setting values ​​for the predetermined item, and the plurality of settable setting values ​​include setting values ​​included in a first setting value group and setting values ​​included in a second setting value group different from the first setting value group, and when setting the predetermined item by operating the user interface of the image processing device, at least the setting values ​​included in the second setting value group can be set, and when setting the predetermined item using the setting command, the setting values ​​included in the first setting value group can be set, while the setting values ​​included in the second setting value group cannot be set, and the information processing device has a drop that accepts the selection of the setting value for the predetermined item on the user interface of the information processing device. It is possible to execute a screen display process that displays a settings screen including a dropdown list, the dropdown list having a list section that displays a list of settings included in the first setting value group, and a setting value display section that displays one of the multiple setting values, the list section of the dropdown list is not displayed when no predetermined operation is performed, the list section is displayed when the predetermined operation is performed and accepts the selection of one of the multiple setting values ​​displayed in the list section, when one of the multiple setting values ​​is selected the list section is hidden and the selected setting value is displayed in the setting value display section, the information processing device is further made to execute an acquisition process when the settings screen is started, which is to acquire the main unit setting value which is the setting value currently set for the predetermined item from the image processing device, and a first display process which is to display the main unit setting value acquired in the acquisition process in the setting value display section of the dropdown list, and the information processing device is further made to execute an acquisition process when the predetermined operation is performed on the dropdown list after the execution of the first display process,If the setting value displayed in the setting value display section of the dropdown list is a setting value included in the first setting value group, the main unit setting value obtained in the acquisition process is displayed in the setting value display section. If the setting value displayed in the setting value display section of the dropdown list is a setting value not included in the first setting value group, a second display process is executed to replace the setting value displayed in the setting value display section with one of the setting values ​​included in the first setting value group.

[0006] The program disclosed herein, upon startup of the settings screen, displays the main unit setting value in the setting value display section of a dropdown list for selecting a setting value for a predetermined item, regardless of whether the setting value is included in the first setting value group or the second setting value group. Thus, the user can understand the current main unit setting value of the image processing device. Subsequently, if a predetermined operation to display the list section is performed, a setting command transmission instruction may be given. Therefore, if the setting value displayed in the setting value display section is not included in the first setting value group, the program replaces the display in the setting value display section with one of the setting values ​​included in the first setting value group. Consequently, if a transmission instruction is given thereafter, the setting command transmitted from the information processing device to the image processing device will be a setting command for setting a setting value in the first setting value group.

[0007] The control methods for realizing the functions of the above program, the information processing device into which the program is incorporated, and the storage medium readable by the computer that stores the program are all novel and useful. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the technology disclosed herein, a program for setting values ​​in an image processing device is provided, which enables a technique for improving the display in a dropdown list. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This block diagram shows the general configuration of a PC. [Figure 2] This is a sequence diagram showing an example of a printer setup procedure. [Figure 3] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a settings screen. [Figure 4] This is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of a regulatory compliance procedure. [Figure 5] This is an explanatory diagram showing examples of the choice groups. [Figure 6] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notification message. [Figure 7] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a settings screen. [Figure 8] This flowchart shows an example of the procedure for applying settings. [Figure 9] This is an explanatory diagram showing examples of confirmation messages and notification messages. [Figure 10] This flowchart shows an example of the procedure for applying settings. [Figure 11] This flowchart shows an example of the procedure for applying settings. [Figure 12] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a settings screen. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The program of the embodiment and the control method by that program will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. This specification discloses a program incorporated into a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as "PC").

[0011] As shown in Figure 1, the PC1 of this embodiment includes a CPU 11 and a controller 10 that includes memory 12. The PC1 also includes a user interface (hereinafter referred to as "user IF") 13 and a communication interface (hereinafter referred to as "communication IF") 14, which are electrically connected to the controller 10. The PC1 is an example of an information processing device. Note that the example of an information processing device may be, for example, a tablet computer or a smartphone instead of the PC1.

[0012] The CPU 11 executes various processes according to the program read from the memory 12 and based on the user's operations. The memory 12 stores various programs and various data including an operating system (hereinafter referred to as "OS") 21 and a printer setting program 22. The printer setting program 22 is an example of a program. Details of the programs and data will be described later. Note that the controller 10 in FIG. 1 is a general term for the hardware and software used for the control of the PC 1, and does not necessarily represent a single hardware actually existing in the PC 1.

[0013] The memory 12 is also used as a work area when various processes are executed. The buffer included in the CPU 11 is also an example of a memory. Note that the CPU 11 may read and use programs and data such as the printer setting program 22 from a storage medium readable by the CPU 11. As the storage medium readable by the CPU 11, for example, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, a USB memory, etc. can be used.

[0014] The user IF 13 includes hardware for displaying a screen for notifying the user of information and hardware for receiving operations by the user. The user IF 13 may include a combination of a display and a mouse, a keyboard, etc., or may include a touch panel.

[0015] The communication IF 14 includes hardware for communicating with an external device. The communication IF 14 includes functions corresponding to communication standards such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Ethernet (registered trademark), and USB. The PC 1 may be provided with a plurality of communication IF 14 corresponding to a plurality of communication standards.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 1, the PC1 is connected to the printer 3 via the communication IF14. The printer 3 is a device having at least an image processing function and a communication function. The printer 3 is an example of an image processing device. Note that an example of the image processing device is not limited to a printer, and may be a scanner, a copier, a multifunction device, or a facsimile device. A plurality of image processing devices may be connected to the PC1.

[0017] The printer 3 includes, for example, a CPU 31, a memory 32, a user IF 33, a communication IF 34, and a printing engine 35. Various programs and data including the device setting information 321 are stored in the memory 32. The device setting information 321 is information indicating various setting values related to the control of the printer 3. The device setting information 321 includes, for example, setting values of various items related to print settings and setting values of various items related to power control. The printer 3 determines setting values of various items according to a setting instruction received by an operation via the user IF 33 of the device itself or a setting instruction described in a command received from an external device such as the PC1, stores the setting values in the device setting information 321, and uses the setting values for the control of the device itself.

[0018] The printer setting program 22 of the PC1 has a setting function for causing the PC1 to transmit a command including a setting instruction of a setting value to a device such as the printer 3 connected to the PC1 via the communication IF14. The printer 3 stores, as the current setting value, the setting value based on the instruction received last among the instructions via the user IF 33 and the instructions by the commands received from the PC1 or the like, in the device setting information 321. When no instruction has been received, the printer 3 stores default setting values in the device setting information 321.

[0019] For example, depending on the regulations in the country or region where printer 3 is installed, the range of settings that can be set for certain items when issuing setting instructions to printer 3 via command may be limited. For example, in Europe, for the purpose of saving power in printer 3, there are restrictions on the range of settings that can be set via command for the automatic power-off item that printer 3 has. The automatic power-off item is an example of a specified item. The setting value that can be set for the automatic power-off item is an example of the auto power-off time. Note that the specified item is not limited to the automatic power-off item; for example, it could be the auto sleep time.

[0020] On the other hand, even if there are restrictions on settings for items that can be set via commands, there may be cases where the settings that can be set for that item are not restricted when the instruction is given via the user IF33 of printer 3. Such settings can be set by setting instructions made through operation of the user IF33 of printer 3, but cannot be set by setting instructions via commands. If the setting value currently stored in the machine setting information 321 is a setting value received via instruction through the user IF33, then it is possible that the current setting value is a setting value that cannot be set by setting instructions via commands.

[0021] The setting value for the automatic power-off item includes information indicating whether the automatic power-off function of printer 3 is enabled or disabled, and, if enabled, information about the time set in the automatic power-off item. The automatic power-off function of printer 3 is a function that automatically turns off the power of the machine if the period without the next operation or image processing exceeds the setting value set in the automatic power-off item. In other words, the setting value set in the automatic power-off item is the time from the last operation or image processing until the power is automatically turned off. If a long time is set as the setting value for the automatic power-off item, the time spent waiting in the power-on state will increase, which may be contrary to power saving.

[0022] The printer setting program 22 on PC1 has the function of obtaining the current settings, which are the main unit settings, stored in the self-configuration information 321 from the printer 3, etc., and displaying them on the user interface 13 of PC1. The main unit settings include information on the setting value set for the automatic power off item. As will be described in detail later, the printer setting program 22 can display the setting values ​​for the automatic power off item and other items on the user interface 13 using a drop-down list and accept the user's selection.

[0023] A dropdown list includes a setting field that displays the current value and a list field that displays the selectable options for the setting field. When the dropdown list is displayed and no user interaction is being accepted, only the setting field is shown. When interaction is accepted with the setting field, the list field appears below the setting field, displaying the selectable options for the setting value. When an operation is accepted to select one of the options in the list field, the list field disappears, and the selected option is displayed in the setting field. Note that even when only the setting field is displayed in the dropdown list, the set of options to be displayed in the list field must be configured, and values ​​not included in that set of options cannot be displayed in the setting field.

[0024] As mentioned above, for certain items, the current setting value stored in the printer 3's machine setting information 321 may be a setting value for which setting instructions via command are restricted. Even if the current setting value cannot be set by command, it is desirable that the current machine setting value can be displayed in the setting value field of the drop-down list. On the other hand, the printer setting program 22 can accept command transmission instructions from the user while displaying various setting values. However, in order to comply with the restrictions, regardless of what value is displayed when a command transmission instruction is received, PC1 is required not to send a command to printer 3 that includes a setting instruction for a value for which setting by command is restricted.

[0025] Next, the printer setup procedure using the printer setup program 22 in this configuration of PC1 will be explained with reference to the sequence diagram in Figure 2. Note that, in this configuration, processes other than user operations basically represent the processing of the CPU 11 according to instructions written in programs such as the printer setup program 22. The processing by the CPU 11 also includes hardware control using the OS 21 API. In this specification, a detailed description of the OS 21 will be omitted, and the operation of each program will be explained.

[0026] The printer setup procedure is a set of settings for controlling printer 3. This procedure is initiated when the user starts the printer setup program 22 (A01). When the printer setup program 22 is started, the printer to be configured is specified. Figure 2 shows the sequence diagram illustrating the case where printer 3 is specified as the device to be configured.

[0027] When started, the printer setting program 22 attempts to obtain device information, including various currently set settings, from the printer 3 designated as the target for configuration (A02). In A02, the printer setting program 22 requests the printer 3 to send device information, and the printer 3, in response to the request from the PC 1, sends the device information, including information on various settings currently stored in its own device setting information 321, to the PC 1. The device information includes at least information on the current setting values ​​for each item, and restriction information indicating the presence or absence of various restrictions, such as restrictions on the automatic power-off item, and may also include model information and status information of the printer 3, and location information indicating the location where the printer 3 is installed. A02 is an example of the acquisition process and an example of the acquisition step.

[0028] The printer configuration program 22 displays a configuration screen on the PC1's user interface 13 based on information obtained from the printer 3. The configuration screen includes the items displayed in the aforementioned drop-down list. Before displaying the configuration screen, the printer configuration program 22 determines the configuration value and the set of options for each item to be displayed in the drop-down list (A05).

[0029] Furthermore, based on the information determined in A05, the printer setting program 22 displays the setting screen 50 on the user interface 13 (A06), for example, as shown in Figure 3, and becomes capable of accepting user input. A06 is an example of screen display processing and an example of screen display steps. The first A06 after acquiring information in A02 is an example of first display processing and an example of first display steps.

[0030] For example, the settings screen 50 shown in Figure 3 includes a device selection field 51, a "Get Current Value" button 52, an "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53, a settings button 54, and an exit button 55. The device selection field 51 and the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53 are selection fields that accept user selections via the aforementioned dropdown lists. The "Get Current Value" button 52, the settings button 54, and the exit button 55 are buttons that accept user press operations.

[0031] The settings screen 50 shown in Figure 3 also includes other selection options: a selection field 56 for print settings (command-based) and a selection field 57 for other (print history saving). Note that the selection fields 56 for print settings (command-based) and 57 for other (print history saving) are optional, and a detailed explanation of them is omitted.

[0032] The settings screen 50 displayed by the printer settings program 22 is a screen that allows the user to specify setting values ​​for various items that can be set on the printer 3. In the first A06 after the startup of A01, the printer settings program 22 displays the settings screen 50 based on the main unit information obtained from the printer 3 in A02. To this end, in A05, the printer settings program 22 determines the group of options that can be displayed in the list column to include the current setting values ​​of the printer 3, based on the obtained main unit information. As a result, the printer settings program 22 can display the current setting values ​​included in the main unit information obtained from the printer 3, that is, the setting values ​​based on the information stored in the printer 3's own unit setting information 321, in each setting value column of the settings screen 50. Details of the group of options will be described later.

[0033] The printer setting program 22 can repeatedly accept user input on the displayed setting screen 50 (loop(1,*)). The printer setting program 22 accepts input on various selection fields and buttons on the displayed setting screen 50 via the user IF 13 (A11), and executes processing according to the accepted user input.

[0034] If there are restrictions on the instructions in the commands sent to printer 3 (alt:[Restrictions apply]), the printer configuration program 22 executes the restriction handling procedure (A21). The following explanation uses the restrictions on the automatic power-off item mentioned above as an example, but restrictions may apply to other items as well. Information indicating the presence or absence of restrictions may be included in the main unit information obtained from printer 3, or it may be registered in the printer configuration program 22 as information from printer 3. The restriction handling procedure will be explained with reference to the sequence diagram in Figure 4.

[0035] When the printer accepts an operation to the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53 on the settings screen 50 (alt: "Automatic Power Off"), the printer setting program 22 first determines a set of options for the automatic power off item of printer 3, including multiple options that can be displayed in the list field (B01). Because printer 3 is subject to restrictions, the printer setting program 22 determines the set of options for the setting value that can be set for the automatic power off item by sending a command, based on the restriction information, which is information about the restrictions. The printer setting program 22 can determine the range of setting values ​​that can be set by command instructions based on the restriction information.

[0036] The printer setting program 22 provides multiple sets of options for the automatic power-off item, including, for example, a first group 61 and a second group 62, as shown in Figure 5. The first group 61 is a set of options that includes only setting values ​​within the range that satisfy the regulations. For example, if the regulatory information indicates that the setting value for the automatic power-off item should be a time longer than 0 minutes but within 20 minutes, then the PC1 is pre-configured with a first group 61 that includes 10 minutes and 20 minutes as options, as shown in Figure 5. The first group 61 is an example of a first set value group. 20 minutes is an example of a predetermined time. Note that the first group 61 may also include other options that are between 0 minutes and within 20 minutes.

[0037] Group 2 62 is a set of options that includes all setting values ​​that can be accepted by the printer 3 via the user IF 33. Group 2 62 includes setting values ​​that do not meet the regulations as options. Group 2 62 may or may not include setting values ​​within the range that meet the regulations as options. The printer setting program 22 may obtain the information of Group 2 62 from the printer 3, or it may have this information pre-configured as information corresponding to the model of the printer 3. For example, as shown in Figure 5, Group 2 62 includes OFF, 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, 8 hours, and 12 hours as options. Group 2 62 is an example of a second set value group. 0 minutes or OFF is an example of information indicating that auto power off is disabled.

[0038] Printer 3 stores information about the range of settings it can accept via User IF33 in memory 32 beforehand. Furthermore, the default settings of Printer 3 at the factory may be outside the restricted range. The default settings are one of the settings that can be accepted via User IF33.

[0039] The current setting value included in the main unit information acquired in A02 could be a setting value received via setting instructions via the user IF33 of printer 3, a setting value received via command-based setting instructions, or a default setting value. Therefore, in A05, the printer setting program 22 determines a set of options that includes all of the options included in the first group 61 and the options included in the second group 62. As a result, if the current setting value of the automatic power off item of printer 3 is outside the range of the regulatory information, for example, "4 hours", the printer setting program 22 can display "4 hours" in the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53 in the initial A06, as shown in Figure 3. In this case, the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53 is an example of a setting value display unit.

[0040] Then, in B01, the printer setting program 22 determines a first group 61 as the group of options, which includes only setting values ​​within the range that meet the regulations. As a result, the option "4 hours," which is not included in the first group 61, will not be displayed in the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53. If the current setting value is not included in the first group 61, the printer setting program 22 changes the setting value displayed in the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53 to one of the options included in the first group 61 (B02). The printer setting program 22 replaces the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53 with, for example, the setting value from among the options included in the first group 61 that is closest to the current setting value included in the main unit information, in this example, "20 minutes."

[0041] When replacing one of the settings included in the first group 61, the printer setting program 22 should change it to the setting that is closest to the current setting displayed in the original setting field 531 from among the multiple settings included in the first group 61. This increases the likelihood that the most suitable setting for the user of printer 3 will be displayed within the range that can be set by commands sent from PC1.

[0042] Furthermore, the printer setting program 22 notifies the user via the user interface 13, for example, as shown in Figure 6 (B03), that the setting value has been changed. B03 is an example of a display notification process and an example of a display notification step. The printer setting program 22 may display the notification message within the setting screen 50, in a separate window from the setting screen 50, or as a pop-up message. By notifying the user that the setting value displayed in the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53 has been automatically changed, the user can easily notice that the setting value has been changed, and user distrust regarding the automatic change can be reduced.

[0043] The printer setting program 22 then displays the changed setting value and a list of selectable options in the drop-down list that constitutes the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53, based on the determined information (B04). Specifically, as shown in Figure 7, the printer setting program 22 displays the selection field 53, which includes a setting value field 531 and a list field 532. The setting value field 531 displays one of the options included in the first group 61, and the list field 532 displays a list of each option included in the first group 61. The setting value field 531 is an example of the setting value display section, and the list field 532 is an example of the list section. B04 is an example of the second display process and an example of the second display step. Note that B03 and B04 may be in the reverse order.

[0044] The user selects one of the options displayed in list column 532 (B06). Upon receiving the user's selection, the printer setting program 22 displays the selected option in setting value column 531 and hides list column 532 (B07). The printer setting program 22 then becomes available to receive further user input.

[0045] The printer setting program 22, in the initial setting screen 50 after acquiring the main unit information, makes the currently set main unit information value for printer 3 available in the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53 by including all the options from the first group 61 and the second group 62. After the setting screen 50 is displayed, if the printer setting program 22 receives an operation on the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53, it changes the selection group to include only the options from the first group 61 and displays the setting value included in that selection group in the setting value field 531. Therefore, the user selects a setting value from the options of the first group 61 displayed in the list field 532.

[0046] In this case, since options not included in the first group 61 are not displayed in the list column 532, the user cannot select a value not included in the first group 61 as the setting value. If a command transmission instruction is received after this, the printer setting program 22 will send a command to the printer 3 that includes an instruction to set the value currently displayed in the setting value column 531, i.e., a value included in the first group 61, as the setting value for the automatic power off item, thereby complying with the regulations.

[0047] Furthermore, if the current setting value included in the main unit information obtained in A02 is a setting value included in the first group 61, the printer setting program 22 will determine the selection group to the first group 61 in B01, skip B02 and B03, and in B04 display the current setting value as is in the setting value field 531. The printer setting program 22 will not change the current setting value if it is within the range that satisfies the regulations.

[0048] Note that the second group 62 shown in Figure 5 is an example that does not include setting values ​​within the range that satisfy the regulations as options. However, depending on the model of printer 3, the setting values ​​that can be accepted via the user IF 33 of printer 3 may include setting values ​​within the range that satisfy the regulations. For example, the third group 63 shown in Figure 5 includes OFF, 10 minutes, 20 minutes, 30 minutes, 40 minutes, 50 minutes, and 60 minutes as options. The third group 63 is an example of the second setting value group. If the setting values ​​that can be accepted via the user IF 33 are in the third group 63, then in A05 of Figure 2, the printer setting program 22 may decide on a set of options that includes all the options in the third group 63. Even if the model of printer 3 corresponds to the third group 63, in B01, the printer setting program 22 decides on the first group 61 as the set of options, which includes only setting values ​​within the range that satisfy the regulations as options.

[0049] Furthermore, if the user operation received in A11 in Figure 2 is an operation on the "Get Current Value" button 52 (alt: "Get Current Value"), the printer setting program 22 retrieves the main unit information from the printer 3 again (B11). Then, based on the main unit information obtained in B11, the printer setting program 22 determines the setting value to be displayed and the group of options (B12). B11 is the same process as A02 in Figure 2, and B12 is the same process as A05. The "Get Current Value" button 52 is an example of a button that accepts a command to display the setting value set on the printer 3, and is an example of a current value command object.

[0050] For example, if the printer settings program 22 accepts an operation on the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53, the list field 532 shown in Figure 7 is displayed, and after the setting value displayed in the setting value field 531 is changed, and then the "Get Current Value" button 52 is pressed, the printer settings program 22, similar to A05 in Figure 2, adds the first group 61 and the second group 62 to the selection group of the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53, and determines the setting value to the current setting value. Then, the printer settings program 22 displays the setting screen 50 based on the current setting value (B13), and becomes ready to accept user operations. The printer settings program 22 similarly displays the current setting values ​​for other items.

[0051] For example, if the display changes as shown in Figure 7 due to an operation on the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53, the printer setting program 22 will no longer be able to display the current setting value in the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53. Even after this, by operating the "Get Current Value" button 52, the current setting value obtained from the printer 3 will be displayed, just as at startup, so the user can understand the current setting value of the printer 3.

[0052] Furthermore, if the user operation received at A11 in Figure 2 is an operation on the setting button 54 (alt:[Settings]), the printer setting program 22 executes the setting application process (B21). The setting button 54 is an example of a transmission instruction object. The procedure for the setting application process will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 8. The setting application process is executed by the CPU 11 of PC1 based on the description in the printer setting program 22. The following section will explain the process when there are restrictions.

[0053] During the setting application process, the CPU 11 determines whether the setting value displayed for each item on the setting screen 50 is one of the options included in the first group 61 (C01). If it is included in the first group 61, the setting value satisfies the conditions indicated in the regulatory information. If the CPU 11 determines that there is an item where the set value is not one of the options included in the first group 61, that is, the setting value does not satisfy the conditions indicated in the regulatory information (C01:NO), the CPU 11 displays a confirmation message to ask the user whether or not to change the setting value (C02).

[0054] For example, as shown in Figure 3, when "4 hours" is displayed in the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53 and the setting button 54 is pressed, the CPU 11 displays a confirmation message 70 asking whether to replace the setting value of the "Automatic Power Off" item with one of the options included in the first group 61, as shown in Figure 9(A), and accepts the user's selection (C03). The CPU 11 may also notify the user of the replacement setting value. By allowing the user to choose whether or not to send an instruction to set a setting value different from the currently displayed setting value, it is possible to prevent the setting value from being set unintended by the user.

[0055] Then, if the option to replace the setting value is accepted (C03:YES), the CPU 11 sets the group of options for the "Automatic Power Off" item as Group 1 61 (C11) and changes the setting value to be set (C12). The CPU 11 may or may not change the display on the setting screen 50. For example, the CPU 11 replaces the setting value with the one that is closest to the currently displayed setting value from the group of options included in Group 1 61. By replacing it with the setting value that is closest to the setting value displayed in the setting value field 531, the likelihood of displaying the most suitable setting value for the user using printer 3 within the range that satisfies the conditions indicated in the regulatory information increases.

[0056] Furthermore, the CPU 11 notifies the user by displaying a notification message on the user IF 13 indicating that the setting value to be set has been changed to one of the options included in the first group 61, as shown in Figure 9(B) (C13). C13 is an example of the first setting notification process. Note that if the user requests information about the setting value to be replaced in C02, as shown in Figure 9(A), the CPU 11 may skip C13.

[0057] If a setting value is changed, a command including instructions to set the new setting value is sent to the printer 3 in a later step. In particular, if the setting value displayed on the setting screen 50 is not included in the first group 61, the CPU 11 replaces it with an option included in the first group 61 using C12 and generates a command instructing the user to set the new setting value. Therefore, the printer setting program 22 can send commands that comply with regulations. On the other hand, since a setting command instructing the user to set a setting value different from the setting value displayed on the setting screen 50 is sent, the user can understand that a setting value different from the displayed one will be set by notifying the user of the change in the setting value using C02 or C13, and the user's distrust regarding the setting value being set unintentionally is reduced.

[0058] After C13, or if it is determined that one of the options included in the first group 61 is set for all items (C01:NO), the CPU 11 generates a command to instruct each item to set its respective setting value (C21). Furthermore, the CPU 11 sends the generated command to the printer 3 (C22). C22 is an example of the first command transmission process. When the printer 3 receives a command instructing it to set a setting value, it stores the information in its own machine setting information 321 based on the command's instructions and uses that information for subsequent control.

[0059] After C22, or if the option to cancel the settings is accepted (C03:NO), the CPU 11 terminates the setting application process and returns to the procedure in Figure 4. If the option not to perform the replacement settings is accepted, no commands are generated or sent, so the printer setting program 22 does not send commands that do not meet the conditions indicated in the regulatory information.

[0060] Next, another example of the setting application process performed at B21 in Figure 4 will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 10. In this setting application process as well, the CPU 11 determines whether the setting value displayed for each item on the setting screen 50 is one of the options included in the first group 61 (D01). If the displayed setting value for all items is included in the first group 61 (D01: YES), the CPU 11 generates a command that includes setting instructions for all items included on the setting screen 50 (D02).

[0061] On the other hand, if the CPU determines that there are items among the displayed settings that are not included in the first group 61 (D01:NO), the CPU 11 generates a command to instruct the setting of the items other than the displayed setting that is not included in the first group 61 (D05). For example, as shown in Figure 3, if the setting displayed in the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53 is not an option included in the first group 61, and there is no regulatory information for other items such as print settings or print history saving, the CPU 11 generates a command to instruct the setting of the items other than the automatic power off item.

[0062] In other words, the commands generated by D05 do not include instructions to set values ​​for items that do not meet the conditions indicated in the regulatory information, while for items that do meet the conditions indicated in the regulatory information, or items that do not correspond to the regulatory information, instructions to set the values ​​displayed on the settings screen are included. Items that do not correspond to the regulatory information are examples of items other than the specified items, and these items are not subject to regulation regardless of the settings entered. Note that selecting from options is also an example of input. Selection fields other than the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53, such as the print settings selection field 56 and the print history saving selection field 57 shown in Figure 3, are examples of separate item objects.

[0063] Then, for items whose commands generated in D05 do not include setting instructions, the CPU 11 notifies the user by displaying a notification message on the user interface 13 indicating that the setting value will not be set (D06). D06 is an example of the second setting notification process. The CPU 11 may also notify the user of information about certain items for which the setting value will not be set. This allows the user to understand that the setting value displayed on the setting screen 50 will not be set, and reduces any distrust regarding the fact that the setting value will not be set.

[0064] After D02 or D06, the CPU 11 sends the generated command to the printer 3 (D11). D11 is an example of the second command transmission process. The printer 3 can store the information in its own machine configuration information 321 according to the received command. After D11, the CPU 11 finishes the configuration application process and returns to the procedure in Figure 4.

[0065] The command sent in D11 does not include instructions to set a setting value for a predetermined item whose setting value is not included in the first group 61. In other words, the printer setting program 22 complies with the regulations by not sending a command that instructs the setting of a setting value that does not satisfy the regulatory information. The command sent in D11 is a command to set a setting value for an item other than the predetermined item, and is a command that instructs the setting of only setting values ​​within the regulatory range. The command sent in D11 is an example of a command to set a different item. The CPU 11 may generate and send a command that includes the setting instructions for each item together, or it may generate a command for each item and send them separately.

[0066] For example, as shown in Figure 5, in the second group 62, the settings accepted via the user IF33 do not include the settings in the first group 61, and in printers that have not undergone a firmware update, it may not be possible to set the settings in the first group 61 even if the printer accepts a setting command. According to the setting application process in Figure 10, even with such printers, it is possible to set only the settings that can be set while complying with regulatory information, thus improving user convenience.

[0067] Next, another example of the setting application process performed at B21 in Figure 4 will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 11. In this setting application process as well, the CPU 11 determines whether the setting value displayed for each item on the setting screen 50 is one of the options included in the first group 61 (E01).

[0068] If the displayed setting values ​​for all items are included in the first group 61 (E01: YES), the CPU 11 generates a command that includes setting instructions for all items included in the setting screen 50 (E02). Then, the CPU 11 sends the generated command to the printer 3 (E03). In this case, E02 and E03 are examples of the third command transmission process.

[0069] On the other hand, if the CPU 11 determines that there are items with setting values ​​that are not included in the first group 61 (E01:NO), the CPU 11 disables the operation on the setting button 54 (E11). E11 is an example of a disable process. The CPU 11 may, for example, display a message indicating that the operation is invalid when it receives an operation on the setting button 54.

[0070] Alternatively, when the printer setting program 22 displays the setting screen 50 in A06 of Figure 2 or B13 of Figure 4, if it determines that the setting values ​​do not meet the regulations, it may display the setting screen 50 including a setting button 54 that will be disabled, for example, as shown in Figure 12. The printer setting program 22 may, for example, display the setting button 54 grayed out, or it may display the setting screen 50 without the setting button 54. In this case, A06 and B13 are examples of invalidation processing.

[0071] After E03 or E11, the CPU 11 terminates the setting application process and returns to the procedure shown in Figure 4. Even in this way, the printer setting program 22 can comply with the regulations because it does not generate or send commands that instruct the setting to a value that does not meet the conditions indicated in the regulatory information.

[0072] After completing the setting application process shown in Figure 8, Figure 10, or Figure 11, the printer setting program 22 returns to the procedure in Figure 4, and then to the procedure in Figure 2, after which it becomes possible to accept user input.

[0073] On the other hand, if the printer setting program 22 determines that there is no restriction information regarding printer 3 based on the information obtained in A02 (alt:[No Restrictions]), it executes the no-restriction procedure (A31). In the no-restriction procedure, the printer setting program 22 sets the group of options in the selection field to the group of options included in the second group 62, and displays the current setting value obtained in A02 in the setting value field. In this case, there is no need to automatically replace the group of options or the setting value, so the printer setting program 22 can send a command to printer 3 to set the specified setting value based on the user's operation.

[0074] Furthermore, when the settings screen 50 displayed in A06 of Figure 2 (see Figure 3) accepts an operation in the device selection field 51 (alt: [Change Device]), the printer settings program 22 obtains the main unit information from the other device specified as the destination (A41). Then, the printer settings program 22 displays the settings screen 50 based on the obtained main unit information (A42).

[0075] The printer configuration program 22 may be capable of executing procedures to set the same settings on multiple devices in response to user instructions. In that case, the printer configuration program 22 may, for example, not change the display contents of the settings screen 50 other than the device selection field 51 in the case of A42. The printer configuration program 22 may also be capable of sending a setting command to instruct the same settings if the newly selected device is a device of the same model as printer 3. In this way, the user can easily set the same settings on multiple devices.

[0076] Furthermore, if the user operation received at A11 in Figure 2 is an operation to the exit button 55 (alt:[Exit]), the printer setting program 22 terminates the repeating procedure (loop), ends the display of the setting screen 50 (A51), and terminates the execution of the program.

[0077] In the printer setup procedure shown in Figure 2, if information is requested from printer 3 at step A02 but no response is received from printer 3, the printer setup program 22, at step A05, determines that the group of options in the selection field includes all the options in the first group 61 (see Figure 5) and the options in the second group 62, and then determines that one of the options in that group will be displayed as the setting value in the setting value field. For example, if printer 3 is offline, PC1 cannot communicate with printer 3. Then, at step A06, the printer setup program 22 displays the setting screen 50 as shown in Figure 3. Step A06 in this case is an example of offline display processing.

[0078] If the printer settings program 22 is unable to obtain the main unit information from printer 3, it may display, for example, the default setting value for each model in the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53. Then, after receiving an operation on the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53, the printer settings program 22 may include all the options included in the first group 61 and the second group 62 in the selection group and display them as a list in the list field 532 (see Figure 7).

[0079] By displaying the settings screen 50, the user can access the settings screen 50 even when the printer 3 is offline, which is highly convenient for the user. However, since commands cannot be sent, the printer settings program 22 may either not allow operation of the settings button 54, or it may display an error message if it receives an operation of the settings button 54.

[0080] As explained in detail above, when the printer setting program 22 starts up, it displays the setting value based on the main unit information in the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53, regardless of whether the setting value set for printer 3 is included in the first group 61 or the second group 62. Therefore, the user can understand the current status of printer 3. Subsequently, if an operation is performed on the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53, a command transmission instruction may be made. Therefore, if the setting value displayed in the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53 is not included in the first group 61, the printer setting program 22 replaces the display with one of the setting values ​​included in the first group 61. As a result, the transmitted command will include a setting instruction for a setting value included in the first group 61, and the setting value of printer 3 can be appropriately updated by the command sent from PC1 while complying with regulations. Therefore, the printer setting program 22 can appropriately display both the current setting value of printer 3 and the setting value to be set for printer 3 using the "Automatic Power Off" selection field 53, which is composed of a drop-down list.

[0081] This embodiment is merely illustrative and does not limit the present invention in any way. Therefore, the technology disclosed herein can naturally be improved and modified in various ways without departing from its essence.

[0082] Furthermore, various notifications are optional. The printer setting program 22 may, for example, highlight the changed setting value instead of notifying the user of the change. Also, the wording of the messages is merely an example and is not limited to the examples shown.

[0083] Furthermore, although the embodiment described an example where there are restrictions on the automatic power-off item, the items subject to restrictions are not limited to the automatic power-off item. Also, there may be restrictions on multiple items, and in that case as well, the printer setting program 22 only needs to perform processing according to whether or not the user's operation is an operation on a restricted item.

[0084] Furthermore, in the embodiment, for example, in B02 of Figure 4 and C02 of Figure 8, when the printer setting program 22 automatically replaces the setting value, it replaces it with the setting value closest to the current setting value, but this is not limited to this. For example, the printer setting program 22 may replace it with a setting value that is more power-efficient, or it may accept user selection. Also, the printer setting program 22 may, for example, display a message including the reason for replacing the setting value in response to a user request.

[0085] Furthermore, although the printer setting program 22 is said to display the setting screen 50 even if the printer 3 is offline, it may also notify the user that the printer is offline instead of displaying the setting screen 50.

[0086] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the printer setting program 22 displays the selection fields for each item as drop-down lists. However, there may be items that display the current setting value and the selection field that accepts selections separately. In this case, the printer setting program 22 should display the current setting value based on the information obtained from the printer 3 in the current setting value display field, and in the selection field, it should only display the setting values ​​that can be set based on the regulatory information as options.

[0087] Furthermore, in any flowchart disclosed in the embodiments, the execution order of any multiple processes in any multiple steps can be arbitrarily changed or executed in parallel, as long as no inconsistencies arise in the processing content.

[0088] Furthermore, the processes disclosed in the embodiments may be executed by a single CPU, multiple CPUs, hardware such as an ASIC, or a combination thereof. Also, the processes disclosed in the embodiments can be implemented in various forms, such as a recording medium or method that stores a program for executing the process. [Explanation of symbols]

[0089] 1 PC 3. Printer 13, 33 User IF 14 Communication IF

Claims

1. A program that is executable by an information processing device and has a setting function that causes the information processing device to send a setting command, which is a command to set a setting value for a predetermined item, to an image processing device connected via the communication interface of the information processing device, wherein the image processing device can set one of a plurality of pre-prepared setting values ​​for the predetermined item, and the plurality of settable setting values ​​include setting values ​​included in a first setting value group and setting values ​​included in a second setting value group different from the first setting value group, and when setting the predetermined item by operating the user interface of the image processing device, at least the setting values ​​included in the second setting value group can be set, and when setting the predetermined item using the setting command, the setting values ​​included in the first setting value group can be set, while the setting values ​​included in the second setting value group cannot be set. The aforementioned information processing device, The user interface of the information processing device can be made to execute a screen display process that displays a setting screen including a dropdown list that accepts the selection of a setting value for a predetermined item, the dropdown list having a list section that displays a list of setting values ​​included in the first group of setting values, and a setting value display section that displays one of the plurality of setting values, the list section of the dropdown list is not displayed when no predetermined operation is performed, the list section is displayed when the predetermined operation is performed and accepts the selection of one of the plurality of setting values ​​displayed in the list section, and when one of the plurality of setting values ​​is selected, the list section is hidden and the selected setting value is displayed in the setting value display section. The aforementioned information processing device further includes the following when the settings screen is launched: An acquisition process to acquire the main unit setting value, which is the setting value currently set for the predetermined item, from the image processing device, A first display process that displays the main unit setting value obtained in the acquisition process in the setting value display section of the dropdown list, Make it run, Furthermore, if the predetermined operation is performed on the dropdown list after the execution of the first display process, the information processing device shall If the setting value displayed in the setting value display section of the dropdown list is a setting value included in the first group of setting values, the main unit setting value obtained in the acquisition process is displayed in the setting value display section. If the setting value displayed in the setting value display section of the dropdown list is a setting value not included in the first group of setting values, a second display process is executed to replace the setting value displayed in the setting value display section with one of the setting values ​​included in the first group of setting values. A program configured in such a way.

2. A program according to claim 1, The predetermined item is the auto power-off time, and the setting values ​​included in the first setting value group include a time longer than 0 minutes and within a predetermined time, and the setting values ​​included in the second setting value group include a time longer than the predetermined time or a time indicating that the auto power-off is disabled. In the aforementioned screen display process, The user interface of the information processing device displays a settings screen that includes a dropdown list for accepting the auto power-off time as a predetermined item. A program that is structured in such a way.

3. A program according to claim 2, The aforementioned predetermined time is 20 minutes. A program configured in such a way.

4. A program according to claim 1, In the first display process, The main unit setting values ​​obtained in the acquisition process, including the setting values ​​included in the first setting value group and the setting values ​​included in the second setting value group, are displayed in the setting value display section of the dropdown list. In the second display process described above, The list portion of the dropdown list includes setting values ​​included in the first setting value group but excludes setting values ​​included in the second setting value group. If the setting value displayed in the setting value display portion of the dropdown list is a setting value included in the first setting value group, the display in the setting value display portion is not changed. If the setting value displayed in the setting value display portion of the dropdown list is a setting value not included in the first setting value group, the setting value displayed in the setting value display portion is replaced with one of the setting values ​​included in the first setting value group. A program configured in such a way.

5. A program according to claim 4, When the settings screen is launched, the information processing device is configured as follows: If the main unit setting value cannot be obtained from the image processing device, an offline display process is executed to display one of the setting values ​​included in the list section of the dropdown list, including both the setting values ​​included in the first setting value group and the setting values ​​included in the second setting value group, in the setting value display section of the dropdown list. A program configured in such a way.

6. A program according to claim 1, The aforementioned information processing device, When the second display process replaces the display of the setting value display section of the dropdown list with one of the setting values ​​included in the first group of setting values, the user interface of the information processing device is used to execute a display notification process that notifies the user of the change in the setting value displayed in the setting value display section. A program configured in such a way.

7. A program according to claim 1, There are multiple setting values ​​included in the first group of setting values, In the second display process described above, If the setting value displayed in the setting value display section of the dropdown list is not included in the first group of setting values, the setting value displayed in the setting value display section is replaced with the setting value that is closest to the setting value displayed in the setting value display section from among the multiple setting values ​​included in the first group of setting values. A program configured in such a way.

8. A program according to claim 1, The aforementioned settings screen includes a transmission instruction object corresponding to the transmission instruction of the aforementioned settings command, When an operation is performed on the transmission instruction object, the information processing device, If the setting value displayed in the setting value display section of the dropdown list is a setting value included in the first setting value group, the first command transmission process is executed, which involves replacing the setting value displayed in the setting value display section with one of the setting values ​​included in the first setting value group, and then sending the setting command to the image processing device to set the replaced setting value. A program configured in such a way.

9. A program according to claim 8, There are multiple setting values ​​included in the first group of setting values, In the first command transmission process, If the setting value displayed in the setting value display section of the dropdown list is not included in the first group of setting values, the setting value displayed in the setting value display section is replaced with the setting value closest to the setting value displayed in the setting value display section from among the multiple setting values ​​included in the first group of setting values, and the setting command to set the replaced setting value is sent to the image processing device. A program configured in such a way.

10. A program according to claim 8, When an operation is performed on the transmission instruction object, the information processing device, If the setting value displayed in the setting value display section of the dropdown list is not included in the first group of setting values, the user interface is used to execute a first setting notification process that notifies the user of a change to a setting value included in the first group of setting values. A program configured in such a way.

11. A program according to claim 8, In the first command transmission process, If the setting value displayed in the setting value display section of the dropdown list is not included in the first group of setting values, the user interface of the information processing device accepts a choice of whether or not to send the setting command to set the replaced setting value. If the selection to send is accepted, the setting command to set the replaced setting value is sent to the image processing device. If the selection not to send is accepted, the transmission instruction is canceled. A program configured in such a way.

12. A program according to claim 1, The aforementioned settings screen includes a transmission instruction object corresponding to the transmission instruction of the aforementioned settings command, When an operation is performed on the transmission instruction object, the information processing device, If the setting value displayed in the setting value display section of the dropdown list is a setting value included in the first setting value group, the setting command to set the setting value displayed in the setting value display section is sent to the image processing device; if the setting value displayed in the setting value display section is a setting value not included in the first setting value group, a second command transmission process is executed which does not send the setting command to set the setting value of the predetermined item. A program configured in such a way.

13. A program according to claim 12, The aforementioned settings screen includes a separate item object that accepts input of setting values ​​for items other than the predetermined items. When an operation is performed on the transmission instruction object, the information processing device, If the setting value displayed in the setting value display section of the dropdown list is a setting value included in the first setting value group, the image processing device is sent a setting command to set the setting value displayed in the setting value display section and a separate item setting command to set the setting value entered in the separate item object. If the setting value displayed in the setting value display section is not a setting value included in the first setting value group, the image processing device is not sent the setting command to set the setting value of the predetermined item, but the image processing device is sent the separate item setting command to set the setting value entered in the separate item object, thereby executing the second command transmission process. A program configured in such a way.

14. A program according to claim 12, When an operation is performed on the transmission instruction object, the information processing device, If the setting value displayed in the setting value display section of the dropdown list is not included in the first group of setting values, the user interface of the information processing device is used to execute a second setting notification process that notifies that the setting value for the predetermined item has not been set. A program configured in such a way.

15. A program according to claim 1, The aforementioned settings screen includes a transmission instruction object corresponding to the transmission instruction of the aforementioned settings command, The aforementioned information processing device, If the setting value displayed in the setting value display section of the dropdown list is not included in the first group of setting values, then an invalidation process is executed to disable the operation on the transmission instruction object. If the setting value displayed in the setting value display section of the dropdown list is a setting value included in the first group of setting values, then, when an operation is performed on the transmission instruction object, the image processing device is instructed to execute a third command transmission process that transmits the setting command to set the setting value displayed in the setting value display section of the dropdown list. A program configured in such a way.

16. A program according to claim 1, The aforementioned settings screen includes a current value indicator object that corresponds to the display instruction for the setting value set in the image processing device, When an operation is performed on the current value indicator object in the information processing device, The acquisition process and the first display process are executed. A program configured in such a way.

17. A control method for an information processing device connected to an image processing device via a communication interface, wherein the image processing device can set one of a plurality of pre-prepared setting values ​​for a predetermined item, and the plurality of setting values ​​that can be set include setting values ​​included in a first setting value group and setting values ​​included in a second setting value group different from the first setting value group, and when setting the predetermined item by operating the user interface of the image processing device, at least the setting values ​​included in the second setting value group can be set, and when setting the predetermined item using a setting command transmitted from the information processing device, the setting values ​​included in the first setting value group can be set, while the setting values ​​included in the second setting value group cannot be set. The user interface of the information processing device includes a screen display step that displays a setting screen including a dropdown list that accepts the selection of a setting value for a predetermined item that can be set on the image processing device, wherein the dropdown list has a list section that displays a list of setting values ​​included in the first group of setting values, and a setting value display section that displays one of the plurality of setting values, wherein the list section of the dropdown list is not displayed when no predetermined operation is performed, the list section is displayed when the predetermined operation is performed and accepts the selection of one of the plurality of setting values ​​displayed in the list section, and when one of the plurality of setting values ​​is selected, the list section is hidden and the selected setting value is displayed in the setting value display section. Furthermore, the following steps are performed when the aforementioned settings screen is launched: An acquisition step of obtaining the main unit setting value, which is the setting value currently set for the predetermined item, from the image processing device, The first display step includes displaying the acquired main unit setting value in the setting value display section of the drop-down list, Furthermore, after the first display step, if the predetermined operation is performed on the dropdown list, the next step is: The second display step includes, if the setting value displayed in the setting value display section of the dropdown list is a setting value included in the first setting value group, the main unit setting value acquired in the acquisition step is displayed in the setting value display section; and if the setting value displayed in the setting value display section of the dropdown list is a setting value not included in the first setting value group, the setting value displayed in the setting value display section is replaced with one of the setting values ​​included in the first setting value group. A control method for the information processing device configured as described above.

18. A control method according to claim 17, The predetermined item is the auto power-off time, and the setting values ​​included in the first setting value group include a time longer than 0 minutes and within a predetermined time, and the setting values ​​included in the second setting value group include a time longer than the predetermined time or a time indicating that the auto power-off is disabled. In the aforementioned screen display step, The user interface of the information processing device displays a settings screen that includes a dropdown list for accepting the auto power-off time as a predetermined item. A control method for the information processing device configured as described above.

19. A control method according to claim 18, The aforementioned predetermined time is 20 minutes. A control method for the information processing device configured as described above.

20. A control method according to claim 17, The second display step replaces the display of the setting value display unit in the dropdown list with one of the setting values ​​included in the first group of setting values, and includes a display notification step that uses the user interface of the information processing device to notify the user of the change in the setting value displayed in the setting value display unit. A control method for the information processing device configured as described above.

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