Image processing device, control method for image processing device, and program

Abstract

This invention provides an image processing device, a control method for the image processing device, and a program for creating easy-to-understand instruction manuals for user operations. [Solution] The image processing apparatus 100, which is an image forming apparatus, includes a CPU 101 which is an execution means for executing functions, an operation panel 113 which is an acceptance means for receiving settings for the functions and a display means for displaying a screen corresponding to the accepted settings for executing the functions, and a printer 112 which is a printing means for printing a document that describes an image showing a screen corresponding to the accepted settings and an operation method for the image forming apparatus for executing the functions.

Description

Technical Field

[0007]

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

Background Art

[0002] In Patent Document 1, there is disclosed a technique capable of printing a procedure manual in which an image showing an operation procedure and an operation method for error elimination is published when a paper jam occurs in an image processing apparatus and an error occurs.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] When a user performs an operation to execute a function of an image forming apparatus, if the screen displayed depends on the set value, it is preferable that the operation procedure is described in the procedure manual using the screen corresponding to the set value.

[0005] However, in the technique described in Patent Document 1, only a procedure manual in which fixed operation procedures are described is created when the condition that a paper jam has occurred is satisfied. Therefore, the image showing the screen of the procedure manual is constant regardless of the set value, and a situation occurs where the operation screen and the image showing the screen of the procedure manual are different, and there is a problem that it is difficult for the user to understand the operation to be performed.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to create a procedure manual in which the operations performed by the user are easy to understand.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] To solve the above problems, the image forming apparatus of the present invention is characterized by comprising: an execution means for executing a function; a reception means for receiving the setting of the function; a display means for displaying a screen for executing the function that corresponds to the received setting; an image showing the screen corresponding to the received setting; and a printing means for printing a document that describes an operation method for the image forming apparatus for executing the function. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, an easy-to-understand instruction manual is created for the user to follow. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] A diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the image processing device 100. [Figure 2] A diagram showing an example of the software configuration of the image processing device 100. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of a software configuration for the image processing device 100 to perform its functions. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of a screen displayed by the image processing device 100. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of a procedure manual printed by the image processing device 100 in Example 1. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of a procedure manual printed by the image processing device 100 in Example 3. [Figure 7] Figure showing an example of a procedure manual printed by the image processing device 100 in Example 4. [Figure 8] Figure showing an example of a screen displayed by the image processing device 100 in Examples 1, 2, 3, and 4. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of the operation panel 113 of the image processing device 100 and the screen displayed on the display in Example 2. [Figure 10] A flowchart showing an example of the process by which the image processing device 100 in Example 1 creates printable data for the operation procedure. [Figure 11]Figure showing an example of the database managed by the image processing apparatus 100 in Example 1 [Figure 12] Flowchart showing an example of the process for creating print data of the operation procedure by the image processing apparatus 100 in Example 2 [Figure 13] Flowchart showing an example of the process for creating print data of the operation procedure by the image processing apparatus 100 in Example 3 [Figure 14] Flowchart showing an example of the process for creating print data of the operation procedure by the image processing apparatus 100 in Example 4

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the scope of the present invention is not limited to the configurations described in the examples. Modifications such as replacing or omitting a part of the configuration or a part of the process with an equivalent may be made within the range where the same effects can be obtained. Also, each button and each area described below are examples of objects.

[0011] <Example 1> The hardware and system configurations of the image processing apparatus 100 in the present invention will be described. Note that the image processing apparatus 100 is also, for example, an image forming apparatus such as a multifunction machine, a printer, or a printing device.

[0012] Hereinafter, CPU is an abbreviation for Central Control Unit, ROM is an abbreviation for Read Only Memory, and RAM is an abbreviation for Random Access Memory. Also, HDD is an abbreviation for Hard Disk Drive, SSD is an abbreviation for Solid State Drive, LAN is an abbreviation for Local Area Network, and USB is an abbreviation for Universal Serial Bus.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the image processing apparatus 100 in Example 1 of the present invention.

[0014] The CPU 101 executes the software programs of the image processing apparatus 100 and controls the entire apparatus. The ROM 102 stores the boot program of the apparatus, fixed parameters, and the like.

[0015] The RAM 103 is used for temporarily expanding and recording data when the CPU 101 controls the apparatus.

[0016] The Flash ROM 104 is a rewritable non-volatile memory and is an example of a storage medium (storage unit) used for storing various data such as installed applications, application data, and print data. For example, a storage medium such as an HDD or SSD may also be used.

[0017] The USB H I / F 105 is for controlling the USB host interface and controls communication with various USB devices. Note that the H in USB H indicates Host.

[0018] The scanner I / F control unit 106 is a device that controls the scanner 111. The printer I / F control unit 107 is a device that controls the printer 112.

[0019] The NVRAM 108 is a non-volatile memory and is used for storing various setting values of the image processing apparatus. Note that NV is an abbreviation for Non-volatile, meaning non-volatile.

[0020] The panel control unit 109 controls the operation panel 113, connects the CPU 101 and the operation panel 113 to mediate information transmission between both, and displays various information on the operation panel 113 or enables the CPU 101 to receive instruction inputs from the user.

[0021] The sensor control unit 110 is a device that controls various sensors 114 provided in the image processing apparatus. Examples of sensors include a human presence sensor that determines whether there is a person in front of the image processing apparatus.

[0022] The network interface control unit 115 controls the transmission and reception of data between the image processing device 100 and external devices connected to the LAN network 117 via the LAN network 117.

[0023] Bus 116 is a system bus through which control signals from the CPU 101 and data signals between devices are transmitted and received. The CPU 101, ROM 102, RAM 103, and FlashROM 104 are connected to Bus 116 in a communicative manner. Furthermore, the USBH I / F 105, scanner I / F control unit 106, printer I / F control unit 107, NVRAM 108, panel control unit 109, sensor control unit 110, and network I / F control unit 115 are connected, and each unit is able to communicate with the others.

[0024] The scanner 111 is, for example, an ADF (Automatic Document Feeder), a device that reads a document placed on the reading unit and converts it into data.

[0025] The printer 112 is used to print images based on image data onto a printing medium such as paper.

[0026] The control panel 113 is a display unit such as an LCD or touch panel, which displays various setting screens and input screens of the image processing device 100 to the user. The control panel 113 also includes buttons and keys, and the user can operate the image processing device 100 by operating the control panel 113.

[0027] Furthermore, the CPU 101 can function as various means by executing a program. Control circuits such as ASICs operating in cooperation with the CPU 101 may also function as these means. Alternatively, these means may be realized through the cooperation of the CPU 101 and a control circuit that controls the operation of the image processing device 100.

[0028] Furthermore, the CPU 101 does not need to be a single entity; there may be multiple CPUs. In this case, multiple CPUs 101 can perform processing in a distributed manner. Also, multiple CPUs 101 may be located in a single computer, or they may be located in physically different computers. The means by which the CPU 101 executes a program may also be implemented by a dedicated circuit.

[0029] Next, the system configuration to be built on the image processing device 100 will be explained using Figure 2. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the system configuration of the image processing device 100. Each part is controlled by the CPU 101 to perform its respective function.

[0030] Operating System 201 (hereinafter referred to as OS201) is the foundational software for the entire system. Program 202 is software that runs on OS201. The functions of OS201 and Program 202 are executed by the CPU 101 of the image processing device 100. The input unit 12 corresponds to the scanner I / F control unit 106, the printer I / F control unit 107, and the sensor control unit 110. The storage unit 13 corresponds to ROM 102, RAM 103, FlashROM 104, and NVRAM 108.

[0031] The display unit 14 corresponds to the panel control unit 109, and the external connection IF 15 corresponds to the network I / F control unit 115.

[0032] Figure 3 shows an example of the configuration of the functions of the image processing device 100. The image processing device 100 includes a printing unit 301 that performs printing, a UI management unit 302 that manages the display screen, and a setting unit 303 that manages various settings. Settings include, for example, the network settings, sleep settings, print paper settings, and settings for black and white or color for the image processing device 100. Each unit performs its respective function under the control of the CPU 101.

[0033] Figure 4 shows an example of a screen displayed by the image processing device 100. Figure 4a is an example of the home screen of the image processing device 100. The home screen displays the copy function icon 401 and the ID card copy function icon 402.

[0034] Icon 403 is the icon for selecting pages on the home screen. The number of circular icons indicates the number of home screens, and the black circular icon indicates the currently displayed screen (page) on the home screen. When the user touches the icon corresponding to the second page of icon 403, the screen shown in Figure 4b is displayed. Area 404 is an area that notifies the status of the image processing device. In the example shown in the figure, a string indicating that the image processing device 100 is copyable is displayed. Icon 405 for the settings function is a screen for displaying the settings screen. When selected, the settings screen shown in Figure 8 is displayed on the operation panel 113.

[0035] Furthermore, the home screen displays not only icons 401 and 402, but also icons corresponding to the functions that the image processing device 100 can perform. The number of screens (pages) on the home screen is also arbitrary.

[0036] The image processing device 100 often has a display with touch functionality, and it is common for these screens to be displayed.

[0037] Furthermore, the ID card copying function is one of the most frequently used features. For example, it is used in public facilities such as universities when students copy their student IDs, or when hotel guests copy their identification documents using image processing devices installed in hotels during check-in.

[0038] The ID card copying function requires the user to place the ID card with the front side facing the reader onto the scanner 111, then flip the ID card over and place it again.

[0039] The procedure for this operation will be specifically explained using the following diagrams, which illustrate examples of screens that the image processing device 100 displays on the operation panel 113 for the user.

[0040] First, the user selects (touches) icon 402 on the home screen shown in Figure 4a and activates the ID card copy function, which displays the screen shown in Figure 4c on the operation panel 113.

[0041] This screen displays image 406, the size of the paper to be printed, color settings, and other information. Image 406 is an image illustrating how the front and back of the ID card will be printed on the paper, illustrating the layout. When the user touches image 406, the layout selection screen shown in Figure 4d is displayed on the control panel 113.

[0042] Figure 4d shows the screen for selecting layout settings. There are several types of layouts that can be printed using the ID card copy function, as shown in Figure 4d. The user can select and set the layout they want to copy. When a setting is selected by the user, the CPU 101 accepts the setting (setting value) and saves it in the setting unit 303 (storage medium such as FlashROM 104). Specifically, for the layout setting item "layout", one of the following settings is set and saved: full, half, or halfLR.

[0043] When a user uses the ID card copy function for the first time, the default setting is saved as, for example, "full". If a procedure manual is created and printed at this point, the image IDcopy_layout_full.jpg will be used. On the other hand, if the user has used this function before, the setting from the last time the image processing device 100 executed this function is saved.

[0044] Subsequently, if, for example, the user changes the layout setting to "half" and uses the ID card copy function, the user's selected layout setting is saved, and when the instruction manual is created and printed, the image IDcopy_layout_half.jpg is used. In this way, the instruction manual is printed based on the saved settings. In other words, the image processing device 100 can print instruction manuals for each layout setting pattern, depending on the user's selection.

[0045] The image 406 displayed in Figure 4c shows the layout set in Figure 4d. In other words, the screen in Figure 4c will change depending on the layout settings for the ID card copy.

[0046] In the screen shown in Figure 4c, when the user touches the copy button, the screen shown in Figure 4e is displayed on the operation panel 113. This screen instructs the user on how to place the ID card on the scanner 111 (plate glass) of the image processing device 100. Image 408 of the dialog screen 407 instructs the orientation in which the ID card should be placed, and the figure shows that the user is instructed to place the ID card vertically. Depending on the layout selected (set) by the user in Figure 4d, some image processing devices 100 may require the user to change the orientation of the ID card placed on the scanner 111 during scanning.

[0047] In the screen shown in Figure 4e, when the user touches the "Next" button, the CPU 101 controls the scanner 111 to scan the placed ID card, and the screen shown in Figure 4g is displayed on the operation panel 113. This screen indicates that the image processing device 100 is in the process of scanning the ID card (document) placed on the scanner 111 (document glass). When the scanning process is complete, the screen shown in Figure 4f is displayed on the operation panel 113.

[0048] This screen instructs the user to flip the ID card of the image processing device 100 over and place it on the scanner 111 (document glass). When the user touches the "Next" button on this screen, the screen showing the scan in progress, as shown in Figure 4g, is displayed again on the operation panel 113. After the scan process is complete, the printing process is executed, and the front and back of the ID card are printed according to the layout set in Figure 4d, and the resulting printed paper is ejected from the image processing device 100.

[0049] Up to this point, we have described examples of screens displayed on the operation panel 113 when the image processing device 100 performs the ID card copying function. Users can copy ID cards by following the instructions displayed on these screens.

[0050] However, in low-cost image processing devices 100, for example, the display (operation panel 113) that shows the screen is often small, resulting in a small screen and making it difficult to see instructions for using the functions. In particular, image 408, shown in Figure 4e, which instructs the user to place the ID card vertically, is difficult to see due to the small display, and the user may make a mistake in the operation.

[0051] To address these issues, Patent Document 1 proposes a technology that allows printing of a procedure manual describing how to resolve a paper jam error in an image processing device. On the other hand, as shown in image 406 in Figure 4c of the present application, if the displayed screen changes depending on the settings, the printed procedure manual should also display a screen that reflects those settings.

[0052] Therefore, in Example 1, we will explain a method for creating print data by referring to the settings of the image processing device 100.

[0053] Figure 8 shows an example of a settings screen displayed on the operation panel 113 of the image processing device 100 according to Embodiment 1. When the setting function icon 405 on the screen shown in Figure 4b is touched, the screen showing a list of setting items shown in Figure 8a is displayed on the operation panel 113. When the print button for the screen operation procedure shown in Figure 8a is touched, the screen showing a list of operation types shown in Figure 8b is displayed on the operation panel 113.

[0054] When the button labeled "Print ID Card Copying Procedure" is touched on the screen shown in Figure 8b, the CPU 101 of the image processing device 100 starts the process of creating printable data for the procedure manual. Similarly, when the button labeled "Print Copying Procedure" is touched, the CPU 101 of the image processing device 100 starts the process of creating printable data for the procedure manual. When the user selects one of these predetermined buttons, it is an instruction to execute the procedure manual printing process, and when the CPU 101 receives the execution instruction, the procedure manual corresponding to the instruction (button) is printed.

[0055] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the process by which the CPU 101 of the image processing device 100 in Embodiment 1 creates printable data for an instruction manual that shows the operating procedures. Figure 10a is a flowchart showing the overall flow of this process, and Figure 10b is a flowchart showing the details of the process in step S1002.

[0056] When the button labeled "Print ID Card Copying Procedure" is touched on the screen shown in Figure 8b, the CPU 101 begins the process of creating printable data for the procedure manual. Note that the user can choose to print the procedure manual from among the print operation procedure buttons (not shown) for each function that the image processing device 100 can execute, rather than being limited to the "Print ID Card Copying Procedure" button.

[0057] The CPU 101 of the image processing device 100 obtains UI data for the specified operation from the UI management unit 302 (S1001). The specified operation is an operation to perform a copy function or an ID card copy function, as shown in Figure 8b.

[0058] Furthermore, the UI data is the data for the resources used to display the screens exemplified in Figures 4a, 4c, 4e, 4f, and 4g on the operation panel 103. Resources are, for example, HTML files, CSS files, and JPG files, but are not limited to these formats. If the UI screen is displayed by a program that generates the screen using the settings and parameters of the main unit as arguments, the resources may be those arguments and the program.

[0059] Next, the CPU 101 retrieves the UI screen (image) from the UI data (S1002). The details of the process in step S1002 will be explained using Figure 10b. It is assumed that the UI management unit 302 manages a database as shown in Figure 11.

[0060] The database in Figure 11 stores information about the screens displayed on the operation panel 113 when a user uses each function that the image processing device 100 can execute, along with various other information. This information includes, for example, setting-dependent screens, fixed UI screens, and setting-dependent UI screens. If a setting-dependent screen exists, information about that screen is stored; if there is no setting-dependent screen, information about a fixed UI screen is stored, corresponding to the screen's state. A setting-dependent screen is, for example, the screen shown in Figure 4c mentioned earlier.

[0061] From here, we will explain the details of the process in S1002 using Figure 10b.

[0062] First, the UI management unit 302, controlled by the CPU 101, refers to the database and obtains UI data corresponding to the function specified by the user (S1004). Using the obtained UI data, the CPU 101 checks whether the screen displayed to execute the function includes a setting-dependent image (screen) (S1005). For example, the UI data for ID card copy screen_1 includes a setting-dependent image, as shown in Figure 11.

[0063] If the processing in step 1005 confirms that no configuration-dependent images are included, the CPU 101 obtains a fixed UI screen (S1006). For example, if the UI data is for the home screen, the data in Figure 11 confirms that there are no configuration-dependent images, and the fixed UI screen, home.jpg, is obtained.

[0064] If the processing in step S1005 confirms that the image is dependent on the settings, the CPU 101 retrieves the setting value from the setting unit 303 (S1007). Then, the CPU 101 retrieves the UI screen that reflects the settings (S1008).

[0065] A simple way for CPU101 to identify a setting value and the corresponding image is to include the setting value in the image's filename. For example, the filename can be a string separated by underscores (underscores) containing the screen name, setting item, and setting value. In this example, the screen name is IDcopy and the setting item is layout.

[0066] In this embodiment, the screen shown in Figure 4d has one of three setting values ​​set for the layout setting item. Specifically, the setting value is one of full, half, or halfLR. In the example shown in Figure 11, the three image files IDcopy_layout_full.jpg, IDcopy_layout_half.jpg, and IDcopy_layout_halfLR.jpg correspond to the setting values ​​according to this rule.

[0067] Additionally, IDcopy_layout_full.jpg corresponds to the full-layout image on the left side of Figure 4d. IDcopy_layout_half.jpg corresponds to the half-layout image in the middle of Figure 4d. IDcopy_layout_halfLR.jpg corresponds to the left-right half-layout image on the right side of Figure 4d.

[0068] In step S1008, CPU101 selects a setting-dependent UI screen from the images IDcopy_layout_full.jpg, IDcopy_layout_half.jpg, and IDcopy_layout_halfLR.jpg and obtains the UI screen. Specifically, if the setting value of the setting item layout is full, CPU101 obtains IDcopy_layout_full.jpg. The explanation will now return to Figure 10a.

[0069] The CPU 101 creates printable data in the format of a procedure manual (S1003). For example, a text template showing each operation procedure in this function may be pre-stored in the Flash ROM 104 or a storage device that the image processing device can communicate with. In this case, the CPU 101 can create printable data in the format of a procedure manual by retrieving the text template and inserting the UI screen (image) obtained in S1006 and S1008.

[0070] Figure 5 shows an example of print data created by the CPU 101 in step S1003 being printed on paper (printing medium). Because the text and operation screens showing the operating procedures are printed on the paper, they are larger and easier for the user to see than when displayed on a small screen. For example, by posting this printed instruction manual near the image processing device, the user can make various settings even if the screen of the image processing device 100 is small.

[0071] The procedure manual is an example of a document describing how to operate the image processing device 100. The document also includes images showing the screens displayed in response to the layout settings accepted by the user, and instructions on how to operate the image processing device 100 to perform the ID card copying function. The operating instructions are described using images of the screens and text (strings of characters), as shown in the diagram.

[0072] Note that in Figure 11, for the sake of simplicity, it is assumed that there are no setting-dependent images on the home screen. However, in reality, the language displayed on the home screen may change depending on the setting language of the image processing device 100. Therefore, the image on the home screen may be treated not only as home.jpg, but also as setting-dependent UI screens such as home_en.jpg, home_jp.jpg, and home_ch.jpg.

[0073] The above describes how to create print data by referring to the settings, as Example 1.

[0074] <Example 2> In Example 1, the user selected the function for which to print the instruction manual from the settings menu. However, in reality, users often request instruction manuals when the image processing device 100 is displaying a screen for some function.

[0075] Therefore, in Example 2, we will describe a method for creating printable data for a procedure manual related to the screen currently displayed by the image processing device 100.

[0076] Figure 9 shows an example of the operation panel 113 and the displayed screen of the image processing device 100 in Embodiment 2. Figure 9a is a schematic diagram of the operation panel 113. The screen 905 is displayed in the display area in the center of the operation panel 113. A back button 901, a home button 902, and a help button 903 are arranged around the edge of the operation panel 113. An LED 904 indicating the power status is also provided. In the example in Figure 9a, the configuration allows the user to access frequently used functions at all times as buttons.

[0077] Figure 9b shows an example of the screen display. In this example, instead of buttons, icons for executing the functions corresponding to each of the above buttons are always displayed in the corner of the screen. In Figure 9b, the back icon 906, home icon 907, and help icon 908 are displayed in the upper right corner of the screen.

[0078] In the configuration shown in Figures 9a and 9b, if the user wants to print the procedure manual, they select the help button 903 or the help icon 908. When the image processing device 100 detects this selection, it not only displays help information (not shown) but also displays a menu for printing the operating procedure as shown in Figure 8b. In other words, the user can instruct the system to print the procedure manual by selecting the help button 903 or the help icon 908.

[0079] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the process by which the CPU 101 of the image processing device 100 according to Embodiment 2 creates printable data for an instruction manual that shows the operating procedures. This process starts when the function of the help button 903 or help icon 908 is enabled, for example, when the power is turned on.

[0080] The CPU 101 of the image processing device 100 detects a print instruction for the instruction manual when the help button 903 or the help icon 908 is selected (S1201). Then, the CPU 101 acquires UI data of the function currently displayed on the operation panel 113, similar to step S1001 (S1202). Next, the CPU 101 acquires the UI screen corresponding to the UI, similar to step S1002 (S1203). Then, the CPU 101 creates print data in the format of the instruction manual, similar to step S1003 (S1204).

[0081] Through the above process, when a UI screen corresponding to a function is displayed on the operation panel 113 of the image processing device 100, printable data for a procedure manual related to the displayed screen is created, and the user can print the procedure manual.

[0082] <Example 3> Example 1 shows an example where a procedure manual written in only one language (Japanese) is printed (Figure 5). However, since the image processing device 100 may be used by an unspecified number of people, it is preferable that the procedure manual be written in multiple languages. While it is difficult to display multiple languages ​​simultaneously on a small display, it is easy to display explanations in multiple languages ​​together in a procedure manual printed on a large sheet of paper, thus demonstrating the advantages of the present invention.

[0083] Therefore, in Example 3, a method for printing instruction manuals in multiple languages ​​will be described. In Example 1, an example was described in which the instruction manual corresponding to each button is printed immediately when each print button in Figure 8b is selected. On the other hand, in Example 3, when the print button for the ID card copying operation procedure in Figure 8b is pressed, the detailed settings screen for the instruction manual in Figure 8c is displayed on the operation panel 113.

[0084] The detailed settings screen in Figure 8c displays area 802 for selecting multiple languages ​​for the explanatory text in the procedure manual. The user can select (specify) the languages ​​they want to use for writing the explanations in the procedure manual from the languages ​​displayed in area 802.

[0085] Furthermore, the details screen displays area 803, which allows the user to choose whether to include all languages ​​selected in area 802 in a single printed document or to print multiple instruction manuals for each selected language. If the user selects in area 803 to include all languages ​​in a single printed document, a document like the one shown in Figure 6 will be printed.

[0086] Furthermore, area 804 is also displayed on the details screen, but this will be explained later.

[0087] When the print button in the details screen of Figure 8c is pressed, the CPU 101 of the image processing device 100 starts creating and printing the instruction manual. In other words, in the example where this screen is displayed, the user can instruct the execution of the printing process by selecting the print button on this screen.

[0088] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the process by which the image processing device 100 in Embodiment 3 creates printable data for an instruction manual that shows the operating procedures.

[0089] First, the CPU 101 of the image processing device 100 acquires UI data for the specified operation, similar to step S1001 (S1301). Then, the CPU 101 acquires the UI screen corresponding to the UI, similar to step S1002 (S1302). Next, the CPU 101 acquires the language specified in area 802 of Figure 8c (S1303). Then, the CPU 101 checks whether printing for each language has been specified in area 803 (S1304).

[0090] If, as a result of the processing in step 1304, it is confirmed that language-specific printing has not been specified, the CPU 101 creates print data using text in all specified languages ​​(S1305). Subsequently, the CPU 101 controls the printer 112 to print one copy of the instruction manual (S1306). Naturally, this printout contains the explanations written in each of the languages ​​selected by the user on the details screen. Figure 6 shows an example of the instruction manual printed in step S1306.

[0091] On the other hand, if the processing in step S1304 confirms that printing is specified for each language, the CPU 101 creates printable data for the procedure manual, with explanations written in each specified language (S1307). Subsequently, it prints the procedure manuals written in each language, one copy for each language (S1308). In this example, the procedure manuals printed in step S1308 are the Japanese version shown in Figure 5, and one English version of this procedure manual, one copy of each.

[0092] Through the above process, it is possible to print instruction manuals that support multiple languages.

[0093] <Example 4> Example 4 describes a method for adding emphasis effects to images within a procedure manual. This makes it easier for users who do not understand the language written in the printed procedure manual to understand what actions to take.

[0094] In Example 4, the detail screen in Figure 8c displays an area 804 where the user can select whether or not to highlight buttons and other elements of the operation screen that will be printed in the instruction manual. In other words, in the image showing the screen that will be included in the printed instruction manual, the areas that the user should pay attention to (such as the object or area to be operated on next) are highlighted, making it easier for the user to understand the next operation to be performed.

[0095] In this embodiment, the user can set the system to highlight the next button to be selected in the printed instruction manual by checking the checkbox displayed in area 804.

[0096] Figure 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the process by which the CPU 101 of the image processing device 100 in Embodiment 4 creates printable data for an instruction manual showing the operating procedures. This process is initiated when the print button is selected on the detailed screen in Figure 8c.

[0097] First, the CPU 101 of the image processing device 100 acquires UI data for the specified operation, similar to step S1001 (S1401). Then, the CPU 101 acquires the UI screen corresponding to the UI, similar to step S1002 (S1402). Next, the CPU 101 acquires the language specified in area 802 of the detail screen in Figure 8c (S1403). Furthermore, the CPU 101 checks whether the highlighting setting has been specified in area 804 (whether the checkbox has been checked) (S1404).

[0098] If step 1404 confirms that the setting to highlight has been specified, the CPU 101 adds the highlighting effect to the UI screen (S1405). For example, the UI management unit 302 holds data on buttons pressed in each operation and display areas of interest, along with a text template, and the CPU 101 can refer to this data to color these areas. For example, by assigning identification numbers to each object and area displayed on the screen, these objects and the contents of the text template can be matched. Then, the CPU 101 creates the print data for the procedure manual (S1406). Figure 7 shows an example of a procedure manual that is printed when highlighting is specified.

[0099] Through the above process, an instruction manual is printed that highlights objects and areas such as buttons that the user should operate, thereby helping users who cannot read the language displayed on the control panel 113 to understand the instructions.

[0100] <Example 5> In Example 1, when the user selects the print button for the operating procedure in Figure 8b, the CPU 101 of the image processing device refers to the currently saved settings and prints an instruction manual using images corresponding to those settings. Specifically in Example 1, if the user wants to print an instruction manual with images corresponding to a desired layout setting, they need to change the setting value once using the ID card copy function.

[0101] However, there are use cases where users want to print instruction manuals using images corresponding to different settings than the current settings, without changing any settings themselves. Therefore, Example 5 describes a method for users to select their desired settings to specify the images to be used in an instruction manual when a print command is issued.

[0102] In Example 5, when the print button for the ID card copying operation procedure shown in Figure 8b is selected, the CPU 101 of the image processing device 100 displays a setting selection screen as shown in Figure 8d on the operation panel 113. As described above, by selecting a setting on this selection screen, the image processing device 100 prints an instruction manual using an image corresponding to the selected setting.

[0103] In the example selection screen shown in Figure 8d, radio buttons are displayed for the user to specify settings. By selecting a radio button, the user can choose the layout, which is a setting item corresponding to the image displayed on the ID card copy function operation screen (Figure 4c). In other words, on the selection screen, the user selects the image they want to print in the instruction manual that corresponds to the setting.

[0104] In addition, the CPU 101 may be configured to store the setting value corresponding to the radio button selected by the user in the setting unit 303.

[0105] When the user selects the print button in Figure 8d, the CPU 101 of the image processing device 100 creates print data for the instruction manual, similar to when the print button was selected on the screen in Figure 8c in Example 1. The instruction manual is then printed using this print data. In other words, in the example where this screen is displayed, the user can initiate the printing process by selecting the print button on this screen.

[0106] In Example 1, in S1008, the CPU 101 obtained the setting value from the setting unit 303, but in Example 5, in S1008, the CPU 101 obtains the setting value corresponding to the radio button selected by the user in Figure 8d.

[0107] Furthermore, by combining this with the previous embodiment, a configuration may be possible in which the user can set both the language of the procedure manual, as set in Figure 8c, and the layout, as set in Figure 8d.

[0108] As a result, the user can have the image processing device 100 print instructions using images corresponding to any setting without changing any settings.

[0109] <Other examples> Although embodiments have been described in detail above, the present invention can take the form of, for example, a system, apparatus, method, program, or recording medium (storage medium). Specifically, it may be applied to a system consisting of multiple devices (for example, a host computer, interface devices, imaging devices, web applications, etc.), or to an apparatus consisting of a single device.

[0110] Furthermore, it goes without saying that the object of the present invention is achieved as follows: a recording medium (or storage medium) containing program code (computer program) of software that realizes the functions of the embodiments described above is supplied to a system or device. Such storage medium is, needless to say, a computer-readable storage medium.

[0111] Then, the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or device reads and executes the program code stored on the recording medium. In this case, the program code read from the recording medium itself realizes the function of the embodiment described above, and the recording medium on which the program code is recorded constitutes the present invention.

[0112] 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. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0113] 100 Image Processing Devices

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus, An execution means for performing a function, A receiving means for receiving the settings of the aforementioned function, A display means for displaying a screen for executing the aforementioned function, which displays a screen corresponding to the received settings, A printing means for printing a document containing an image showing a screen corresponding to the received settings and a method for operating the image forming apparatus to perform the function, An image forming apparatus characterized by having the following features.

2. The receiving means further receives the print execution instruction from the user, The printing means prints the document in accordance with the fact that the execution instruction has been received by the receiving means. The image forming apparatus according to feature 1.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that the receiving means receives the execution instruction when a predetermined object is selected by the user.

4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the printing means prints an image showing a screen corresponding to the settings received by the receiving means when the image forming apparatus last performed the function, and a document describing how to operate the image forming apparatus for performing the function.

5. The receiving means further receives from the user the language of the operating method of the image forming apparatus for performing the function described in the document, The printing means prints a document containing the operating method of the image forming apparatus for performing the function described in the accepted language, and an image showing a screen corresponding to the accepted settings. The image forming apparatus according to feature 1.

6. The receiving means receives multiple languages ​​from the user, The printing means prints a document containing the operating method of the image forming apparatus for performing the function described in the received multiple languages, and an image showing a screen corresponding to the received settings. The image forming apparatus according to feature 5.

7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the aforementioned document is displayed in an image showing the screen corresponding to the received settings, with the portion of the image that the user should pay attention to highlighted.

8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the aforementioned function is a card copying function.

9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the printing means prints the material onto a printing medium.

10. A method for controlling an image forming apparatus, The execution process that carries out the function, A reception process for accepting the settings of the aforementioned function, A display step that displays a screen for executing the aforementioned function, which corresponds to the received settings, A printing process for printing a document containing an image showing a screen corresponding to the received settings and a method for operating the image forming apparatus to perform the function, A control method for an image forming apparatus, characterized by having the following features.

11. The aforementioned reception process further receives the print execution instruction from the user, The printing process executes the printing of the material in accordance with the receipt of the execution instruction by the reception process. The control method for an image forming apparatus according to feature 10.

12. The control method for an image forming apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that the reception step receives the execution instruction when a predetermined object is selected by the user.

13. The control method for an image forming apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that the printing step prints an image showing a screen corresponding to the settings received by the reception step when the image forming apparatus last performed the function, and a document describing how to operate the image forming apparatus for performing the function.

14. The reception process further receives from the user the language of the operating method of the image forming apparatus for performing the function described in the document, The printing process prints a document containing the operating method of the image forming apparatus for performing the function described in the accepted language, and an image showing a screen corresponding to the accepted settings. The control method for an image forming apparatus according to feature 10.

15. The aforementioned reception process receives multiple languages ​​from the user, The printing process prints a document containing the operating method of the image forming apparatus for performing the function described in the multiple languages ​​received, and images showing screens corresponding to the received settings. The control method for an image forming apparatus according to feature 14.

16. The control method for an image forming apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that the image showing the screen corresponding to the received settings is displayed with the parts that the user should pay attention to highlighted.

17. The control method for an image forming apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that the aforementioned function is a card copying function.

18. The control method for an image forming apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that the printing step prints the material onto a printing medium.

19. A program characterized by causing an image forming apparatus to execute the control method described in any one of claims 10 to 18.

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