Image processing apparatus and control method

Abstract

This aims to reduce the user's burden in selecting destination information obtained from external devices, thereby providing a more convenient image processing device. [Solution] An image processing device comprising an acquisition unit capable of acquiring destination information from an external device, a job execution unit that executes a transmission job using the acquired destination information, and a control unit, wherein the control unit controls the display of the destination information according to the screen mode of the transmission job that has received a request to acquire the destination information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus and the like.

Background Art

[0002] Some image processing apparatuses having a transmission job function such as image transmission or fax transmission have a function of acquiring destination information such as an email address or a fax number managed by an external device such as a smartphone.

[0003] The destination information acquired from the external device can be set as the destination of the transmission job executed by the image processing apparatus. The image processing apparatus can utilize the acquired destination information in the same manner as the destination information it manages itself.

[0004] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an image processing apparatus that performs destination setting of a selected function based on destination information acquired from an external device after any one of the Scan to E-mail function or the Scan to FAX function is selected by a user.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] Incidentally, when displaying destination information acquired from an external device on the image processing device side, there has been no practice of restricting the display of acquired destination information according to the operating mode of the transmission job at the time the acquisition request was made. For example, when an acquisition request for destination information was made via a dedicated screen specialized for fax transmission, conventional technology would display not only the fax number but also destination information related to other transmission jobs, such as email addresses, so the user had to search for the desired destination information from among the mixed destination information displayed.

[0007] The purpose of this disclosure is to reduce the burden on users in selecting destination information obtained from external devices and to provide a more convenient image processing device, etc. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To solve the above problems, the image processing apparatus according to this disclosure comprises an acquisition unit capable of acquiring destination information from an external device, a job execution unit that executes a transmission job using the acquired destination information, and a control unit, wherein the control unit restricts the display of the destination information according to the screen mode of the transmission job that received the request to acquire the destination information.

[0009] Furthermore, the control method relating to this disclosure comprises an acquisition step of acquiring destination information from an external device, a job execution step of executing a transmission job using the acquired destination information, and a control step, wherein the control step restricts the display of the destination information according to the screen mode of the transmission job that received the request to acquire the destination information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to this disclosure, it is possible to reduce the burden on users in selecting destination information obtained from external devices and to provide image processing devices and the like that offer greater convenience. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is a diagram illustrating the overall configuration according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a diagram for explaining the functional configuration of the multifunction device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] It is a diagram for explaining history information. [Figure 4] It is a diagram for explaining destination information. [Figure 5] It is a diagram for explaining the functional configuration of the terminal device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] It is a flowchart for explaining the processing flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a flowchart for explaining the processing flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] It is a flowchart for explaining the processing flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a diagram for explaining an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] It is a diagram for explaining an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] It is a diagram for explaining an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a diagram for explaining an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a diagram for explaining an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] It is a diagram for explaining an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 15] It is a diagram for explaining an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 16] It is a diagram for explaining an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 17] It is a flowchart for explaining an operation example according to the second embodiment. [Figure 18] It is a diagram for explaining an operation example according to the second embodiment. [Figure 19] It is a flowchart for explaining an operation example according to the second embodiment. [Figure 20] It is a diagram for explaining an operation example according to the third embodiment.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the present disclosure, a multifunction peripheral that executes each function such as fax, image transmission, or copy in job units will be described as one form of an image processing apparatus. Note that the following embodiments are examples for explaining the present disclosure, and the technical scope of the description described in the claims is not limited to the following description.

[0013] [1 First Embodiment] The first embodiment is a form of a multifunction peripheral that can execute a transmission job such as fax or image transmission through a normal setting screen that can set all settings related to the execution of the transmission job or a simplified setting screen that simplifies the normal setting screen. Hereinafter, the screen mode for displaying the normal setting screen will be described as the normal mode, the screen mode for displaying the simplified setting screen will be described as the simplified mode, and the screen mode for displaying the home screen will be described as the basic mode. Note that the image transmission (job) according to the present disclosure will be described as including email transmission (job) and / or IFAX transmission (job).

[0014] [1.1 Functional Configuration] FIG. 1 is a diagram for schematically explaining the overall configuration according to the first embodiment. The multifunction peripheral 10 is configured to be connected to a terminal device 30 as an external device and be able to transmit and receive information to and from each other.

[0015] Here, the connection method to the terminal device 30 is not particularly limited. For example, (short-range) wireless communication technologies such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC (Near field communication), Wi-fi (registered trademark), ZigBee (registered trademark), Irda, and wireless USB can be adopted. Note that in FIG. 1, the multifunction peripheral 10 shows an example of being directly connected to the terminal device 30 by wireless communication, but it is also possible to connect via a network (not shown) such as a LAN (Local area network), WAN (Wide area network), or the Internet.

[0016] Furthermore, there are no particular restrictions on the number of terminal devices 30 that can be connected to the multifunction printer 10. Note that the terminal devices 30 may have the same functional configuration or different functional configurations.

[0017] [1.1.1 About the Multifunction Printer 10] Figure 2 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction device 10. The multifunction device 10 comprises a control unit 11, a display unit 13, an operation input unit 15, a communication unit 17, an image forming unit 19, an image reading unit 21, and a storage unit 23.

[0018] The control unit 11 controls the entire multifunction device 10. The control unit 11 is composed of, for example, one or more arithmetic units (CPU (Central Processing Unit), etc.). The control unit 11 realizes its functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 23.

[0019] The display unit 13 displays various information to the user, etc. The display unit 13 can be configured, for example, with an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an OLED (Electro-Luminescence) display.

[0020] The operation input unit 15 accepts information input from the user or other party. The operation input unit 15 can be composed of hard keys (e.g., a numeric keypad) or buttons. The operation input unit 15 can also be configured as a touch panel that allows input via the display unit 13. In this case, the input method for the touch panel can be, for example, a resistive touch panel, an infrared touch panel, an electromagnetic induction touch panel, or a capacitive touch panel.

[0021] As mentioned above, the communication unit 17 is equipped with wireless communication interfaces such as Bluetooth, NFC, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Irda, and wireless USB. Furthermore, the communication unit 17 may also be equipped with either wired, wireless, or both interfaces for communicating with other devices via networks not shown, such as LAN, WAN, the Internet, telephone lines, and fax lines.

[0022] The image forming unit 19 forms an image based on image data onto paper used as a recording medium. The image forming unit 19 feeds paper from a paper feeding unit (not shown), forms an image based on image data on the paper, and then discharges the paper from a paper discharge unit (not shown). The image forming unit 19 can be configured, for example, by a laser printer using an electrophotographic method. The image forming unit 19 performs image formation using toner supplied from a toner cartridge (not shown) corresponding to a toner color (e.g., cyan, magenta, yellow, black).

[0023] The image reading unit 21 generates image data by scanning and reading the image of the document to be read. The image reading unit 21 can be configured as a scanner device equipped with an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge coupled device) or CIS (Contact image sensor). There are no particular restrictions on the configuration of the image reading unit 21, as long as it generates image data by reading the reflected light image from the document image with the image sensor.

[0024] The memory unit 23 stores various programs and data necessary for the operation of the multifunction printer 10. The memory unit 23 can be configured with storage devices such as RAM (Random access memory), HDD (Hard disk drive), SSD (Solid state drive), and ROM (Read only memory).

[0025] In the first embodiment, the storage unit 23 stores a job execution program 231, a history information processing program 232, a destination information acquisition program 233, a destination determination program 234, and a display processing program 235, and reserves a history information storage area 236 and a destination information storage area 237.

[0026] The job execution program 231 is a program read by the control unit 11 to execute various functions such as faxing, image transmission, or copying on a job-by-job basis. The control unit 11, having read the job execution program, executes the job by controlling the job execution units involved in job execution, such as the display unit 13, operation input unit 15, communication unit 17, image forming unit 19, and image reading unit 21. Furthermore, the control unit 11, having read the job execution program 231, can execute various jobs based on setting values ​​stored as history information, which will be described later.

[0027] The history information processing program 232 is a program that the control unit 11 reads, for example, when acquiring setting values ​​related to job execution, generating history information, and performing various processing on the history information. After reading the history information processing program 232, the control unit 11 generates history information based on the acquired setting values. The control unit 11 then stores the generated history information in the history information storage area 236.

[0028] The destination information acquisition program 233 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when it receives a request from a user to acquire destination information. After reading the destination information acquisition program 233, the control unit 11 functions as an acquisition unit and requests the terminal device 30 to output destination information, including email addresses, fax numbers, telephone numbers, or IFAX addresses, which are managed by the terminal device 30. There are no particular restrictions on the means of acquiring destination information, but for example, telephone book transfer profiles such as PBAP (Phone book access profile) and OPP (Object push profile) can be used.

[0029] The destination determination program 234 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when classifying destinations, determining the destination type corresponding to the job type from the destination information obtained from the terminal device 30. After reading the destination determination program 234, the control unit 11 refers to the obtained destination information and determines the destination type of the destinations included in that destination information. The control unit 11 classifies the destinations based on the determined destination type. The determination of destination types will be explained later.

[0030] The display processing program 235 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when displaying the normal settings screen, simplified settings screen, history information display screen, or home screen as the basic screen on the display unit 13 according to the screen mode. After reading the display processing program 235, the control unit 11 displays various screens such as the normal settings screen on the display unit 13 based on frame information (not shown), content placement information, etc.

[0031] The history information storage area 236 is a storage area that stores history information, for example, in a data table format. The history information relating to this disclosure can be configured as history information consisting of a combination of information relating to the execution history of a job, such as the execution date and time, job type, and operating mode, and some or all of the setting values ​​related to the execution of the job, with an identifier such as a job ID attached to the information to uniquely identify it. The history information stored in the history information storage area 236 is read out as appropriate by the control unit 11 and used to create a history information display screen and to execute a new job using the history information.

[0032] Figure 3 illustrates an example of the data structure of history information stored in the history information storage area 236. For example, the history information related to job ID "001" represents a job with the job type "copy" that was executed in simplified mode on the execution date and time "April 1, 2020, 9:00". The setting values ​​include, for example, setting values ​​related to image formation such as color mode, original / paper size, density, image quality, resolution, magnification, or data format. The history information for job ID "001" includes setting values ​​such as color mode: full color, original size: A4, paper size: A4, magnification: 100%. Note that the setting values ​​exemplified in Figure 3 are merely examples, and the setting values ​​in this disclosure are not limited to those described in Figure 3.

[0033] The history information for Job ID "002" indicates a job type of "email sending" that was executed in normal mode on April 1, 2020, at 11:00. The history information for Job ID "002" includes settings such as color mode: full color, resolution: 200x200dpi, format: PDF, and the recipient email address "aiueo@sample.com".

[0034] The history information for job ID "003" indicates that the job type was "Fax Transmission" and that the job was executed in normal mode on "April 1, 2020, 13:10". The history information for job ID "003" includes settings such as image quality: normal font, density: dark, and the destination fax number "12-3456-7890".

[0035] The history information for Job ID "004" indicates that the job type was "Send Email" and that the job was executed in simplified mode on April 2, 2020, at 13:30. The history information for Job ID "004" includes settings such as color mode: black and white, resolution: 200x200dpi, format: TIFF, and the recipient email address "aiueo@sample.com".

[0036] The history information for Job ID "005" indicates that the job type was "Send Email" and that the job was executed in simplified mode on April 2, 2020, at 13:40. The history information for Job ID "005" includes settings such as color mode: full color, resolution: 400x400dpi, format: PDF, as well as the recipient email address "aaaaa@sample.com".

[0037] The history information for job ID "006" indicates that the job type was "Fax Transmission" and that the job was executed in simplified mode on "April 2, 2020, 13:50". The history information for job ID "006" includes settings such as image quality: normal font, density: automatic, and the destination "22-3333-4444".

[0038] The history information for Job ID "007" indicates that the job type is "IFAX transmission" and that the job was executed in normal mode on "April 3, 2020, 10:00". The history information for Job ID "007" includes settings such as image quality: normal font, density: automatic, and the recipient's IFAX address "i-sashisu@sample.com".

[0039] The destination information storage area 237 is a storage area that stores destination information acquired from the terminal device 30, for example, in a data table format. The destination information stored in the destination information storage area 237 is read out as appropriate by the control unit 11 and used for destination display processing according to the operation mode of the transmission job.

[0040] Here, Figure 4(a) illustrates an example of the data structure of destination information stored in the destination information storage area 237. For example, the destination information for ID "01" is an example in which the destination name is "Aiueo", and depending on the destination type, the following are stored: email address: aiueo@sample.com, fax number: 00-1111-2222, telephone number: aa-bbbb-cccc, and IFAX address: i-aiueo@sample.com. Note that the destination information illustrated in Figure 4(a) is merely an example, and the destination information related to this disclosure is not limited to the items described in Figure 4(a).

[0041] The recipient information associated with ID "02" is an example where the recipient name is "Kakiku Keiko," and depending on the recipient type, the email address: kakiku@sample.com, fax number: 33-4444-5555, and telephone number: dd-eeee-ffff are stored.

[0042] The recipient information associated with ID "03" is an example where the recipient name is "Sashisu Seso", and depending on the recipient type, the following information is stored: email address: sashisu@sample.com, fax number: 66-7777-8888, telephone number: gg-hhhh-iiii, and IFAX address: i-sashisu@sample.com.

[0043] The recipient information for ID "04" is an example where the recipient name is "Tate Denjin," and depending on the recipient type, the fax number is stored as 99-0000-1111 and the telephone number as jj-kkkk-llll.

[0044] The recipient information associated with ID "05" is an example where the recipient name is "Nani Nureotono", and depending on the recipient type, the email address: nani@sample.com, fax number: 22-3333-4444, and telephone number: mm-oooo-pppp are stored.

[0045] Furthermore, it is preferable that the destination information stored in the destination information storage area 237 be deleted after the execution of a job using that destination information, from the viewpoint of preventing the leakage of destination information to a third party.

[0046] [1.1.2 Regarding terminal device 30] Figure 5 is a functional configuration diagram of the terminal device 30. The terminal device 30 in this disclosure is intended to be, for example, a so-called mobile terminal device such as a smartphone, tablet, mobile phone, or laptop computer, but is not limited to these. A stationary terminal device such as a desktop computer can also be included in the terminal device 30 in this disclosure, as long as it is configured to communicate with the multifunction printer 10.

[0047] Such a terminal device 30 includes a control unit 31, a display unit 33, an operation input unit 35, a communication unit 37, and a storage unit 39.

[0048] The control unit 31 controls the entire terminal device 30. The control unit 31 is composed of, for example, one or more arithmetic units (CPU, etc.). The control unit 31 realizes its function by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 39.

[0049] The display unit 33 displays various information to the user. The display unit 33 can be configured, for example, with an LCD or an organic EL display.

[0050] The operation input unit 35 accepts information input from the user or other party. The operation input unit 35 can be configured as a touch panel that allows input via the display unit 33. In this case, the input detection method for the touch panel can be, for example, a resistive touch method, an infrared touch method, an electromagnetic induction method, or a capacitive touch method.

[0051] The communication unit 37 is equipped with communication interfaces such as Bluetooth, NFC, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, Irda, and wireless USB. The communication unit 37 may also be equipped with either wired, wireless, or both interfaces for communicating with other devices via networks not shown, such as LAN, WAN, the Internet, telephone lines, and fax lines.

[0052] The memory unit 39 stores various programs and data necessary for the operation of the terminal device 30. The memory unit 39 can be composed of, for example, a storage device such as RAM, HDD, SSD, or ROM.

[0053] In the first embodiment, the storage unit 39 stores the application program 391 and the destination information management program 392, and reserves a destination information storage area 393.

[0054] The application program 391 is a program that the control unit 31 reads when executing various applications such as email, fax, phone calls, social networking services, video / music viewing, and games.

[0055] The destination information management program 392 is a program that the control unit 31 reads when managing destination information such as email addresses, fax numbers, telephone numbers, and IFAX addresses used in applications such as email, fax, and telephone calls. The control unit 31 performs processing related to destination information, such as new registration, editing, and deletion of destination information, based on user instructions. The control unit 31 also outputs the destination information to be managed in response to a request for destination information acquisition from the multifunction device 10. If the request for destination information acquisition is made based on a telephone directory transfer profile such as PBAP or OPP, the control unit 31 can output the destination information in vCard format, as illustrated in Figure 4(b). The destination information can also be exported in CSV format. The destination information management program 392 may be implemented as a management program incorporated into the application program 391.

[0056] The destination information storage area 393 is a storage area that stores destination information, such as email addresses, fax numbers, telephone numbers, and IFAX addresses, associating them with identification information such as destination names and IDs.

[0057] [1.2 Processing Flow] Next, the processing flow according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating the display control of the destination according to the screen mode of the transmission job when requesting the acquisition of destination information.

[0058] The control unit 11 accepts the user's selection of a screen mode (step S10). The user can, for example, select history information of jobs executed under each screen mode, or select the normal mode or simplified mode for job execution via the home screen, which is the basic mode.

[0059] Next, the control unit 11 displays a setting screen on the display unit 13 based on the screen mode selected by the user (step S20). In this case, the control unit 11 displays either the normal setting screen corresponding to the normal mode selected by the user or the simplified setting screen corresponding to the simplified mode on the display unit 13.

[0060] When the destination information acquisition button, provided on the normal settings screen or the simplified settings screen, is pressed, the control unit 11 reads the destination information acquisition program 233. After reading the destination information acquisition program 233, the control unit 11 requests the terminal device 30 to output the destination information.

[0061] The control unit 31 of the terminal device 30, in response to a request from the multifunction printer 10 to acquire destination information, reads the destination information management program 392 and outputs the destination information to be managed.

[0062] When destination information is output from the terminal device 30, the control unit 11 acquires it (step S30).

[0063] When the control unit 11 obtains destination information from the terminal device 30, it reads the destination determination program 234 to determine the destination type and classify the destination (step S40). Here, the determination of the destination type by the control unit 11 will be explained using Figure 4(b).

[0064] Figure 4(b) shows the output format of destination information related to the destination name "Aiueo" as exemplified in Figure 4(a). The control unit 11 determines the destination type by referring to the item values ​​of "TEL" and "EMAIL" in the acquired vCard format destination information. For example, "TYPE=VOICE:aa-bbbb-cccc" in "TEL" represents destination information based on voice communication. In this case, the control unit 11 determines the destination type as "telephone" and classifies the destination (aa-bbbb-cccc) as a telephone number. Similarly, "TYPE=FAX:00-1111-2222" in "TEL" represents destination information based on fax communication. In this case, the control unit 11 determines the destination type as "fax" and classifies the destination (00-1111-2222) as a fax number. On the other hand, "TYPE=INTERNET:aiueo@sample.com" in "EMAIL" represents destination information based on email communication. In this case, the control unit 11 determines the destination type as "email" and classifies the destination (aiueo@sample.com) as an email address. Also, "TYPE=IFAX:i-aiueo@sample.com" under "EMAIL" represents destination information based on IFAX communication. In this case, the control unit 11 determines the destination type as "IFAX" and classifies the destination (i-aiueo@sample.com) as an IFAX address.

[0065] Next, the control unit 11 checks whether the screen mode selected by the user is the simplified mode (step S50).

[0066] If the screen mode selected by the user is the simplified mode, the control unit 11 displays the destination corresponding to the destination type on the display unit 13 (step S50; Yes → step S60).

[0067] The control unit 11 then executes a new job using the destination selected by the user and terminates the process (step S70). If the system is configured to erase the destination information stored in the destination information storage area 237 after job execution, a step to erase the destination information may be provided after the completion of step S70.

[0068] On the other hand, if the screen mode selected by the user is the normal mode, the control unit 11 displays the destination corresponding to the destination type on the display unit 13 (step S50; No → step S80).

[0069] Then, the control unit 11 executes a new job using a destination of a different destination type selected by the user, and terminates the process (step 70).

[0070] Next, the display control of destinations according to the destination type in step S60 of Figure 6 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 7.

[0071] The control unit 11 determines whether the transmission job related to the screen mode selected by the user is a fax transmission job (step S6010).

[0072] If the transmission job is a fax transmission job, the control unit 11 displays only the fax number on the display unit 13 (step S6010; Yes → step S6020).

[0073] On the other hand, if the transmission job is not a fax transmission job, the control unit 11 displays only the email address and IFAX address on the display unit 13 (step S6010; No → step S6030).

[0074] Next, the destination display control unit corresponding to the destination type in step S80 of Figure 6 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 8.

[0075] First, the control unit 11 determines whether the transmission job related to the screen mode selected by the user is a fax transmission job (step S8010).

[0076] If the transmission job is a fax transmission job, the control unit 11 displays only the fax number on the display unit 13 (step S8010; Yes → step S8020).

[0077] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the user has entered an instruction to display an email address and an IFAX address as destinations of other destination types (step S8030).

[0078] If the user inputs an instruction to display an email address and IFAX address as destinations of a different type, the control unit 11 displays the email address and IFAX address on the display unit 13 (Step S8030; Yes → Step S8040). On the other hand, if the user does not input an instruction to display an email address and IFAX address as destinations of a different type, the control unit 11 terminates the process with the fax number displayed (Step S8030; No).

[0079] On the other hand, if the transmission job is not a fax transmission job, the control unit 11 displays only the email address and IFAX address on the display unit 13 (step S8010; No → step S8050).

[0080] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the user has entered an instruction to display a fax number as a destination of another destination type (step S8060).

[0081] If the user inputs an instruction to display the fax number as a destination of another type, the control unit 11 displays the fax number on the display unit 13 (Step S8060; Yes → Step S8070). On the other hand, if the user does not input an instruction to display the fax number as a destination of another type, the control unit 11 terminates the process with the email address and IFAX address displayed (Step S8060; No).

[0082] [1.3 Example of Operation] Next, an example of operation according to the first embodiment will be described. First, an example of operation related to the user's selection of a screen mode (corresponding to the process in step S10 of Figure 6) will be described. Examples of this operation include selecting history information of jobs executed under each screen mode or selecting a screen mode via the home screen.

[0083] Figure 9 shows an example configuration of a history information display screen W10 that displays job history information. The history information display screen W10 is a screen that accepts the user's selection of history information when executing a job that is the same as or similar to the job in question based on the job history information. In this disclosure, a touch panel type operation input unit 15 provided on the screen of the display unit 13 detects the user's press on each button area partitioned on the screen, enabling the user to make each input.

[0084] The history information display screen W10 includes a history information display area R10 and a job status notification button B10. The history information display area R10 can display the history of jobs executed under either normal mode or simplified mode as history information. Figure 9 is an example of a display where the history information exemplified in Figure 3 is displayed in a way that allows the user to select it.

[0085] For example, when the user selects history information A10 related to job ID "6", the control unit 11 displays a simplified setting screen that reflects the contents of the setting values ​​included in the history information. In other words, the user can select either normal mode or simplified mode by referring to "Normal" or "Simplified" displayed in the mode item on the history information display screen W10 and selecting history information corresponding to the mode item.

[0086] The Job Status Notification Button B10 is a button that accepts input for displaying the job execution status. When the Job Status Notification Button B10 is pressed, the control unit 11 displays the job execution status via a display screen (not shown).

[0087] Figure 10 illustrates an example of selecting a screen mode via the home screen W20. The home screen W20 is displayed on the display unit 13, for example, when the power is turned on, when in standby mode, when recovering from sleep mode, etc., and functions as a basic screen that accepts user input. The home screen W20 includes a job / process selection button B12 and a display switching button B26.

[0088] The Job / Process Selection button B12 accepts the user's selection of desired job type and various processes. For example, the user can also display the history information display screen exemplified in Figure 9 by pressing the “History Information” button B14, which is included in the Job / Process Selection button B12.

[0089] Furthermore, the user can execute a fax transmission job in simplified mode by pressing the "Simplified Fax" button B16. When the control unit 11 receives a press of the "Simplified Fax" button B16, it displays a simplified settings screen for the fax transmission job. Similarly, the user can execute a fax transmission job in normal mode by pressing the "Fax" button B18. When the control unit 11 receives a press of the "Fax" button B18, it displays a normal settings screen for the fax transmission job.

[0090] Furthermore, the user can execute an image transmission job (email transmission job or IFAX transmission job) in simplified mode by pressing the “Simplified Scan” button B20. When the control unit 11 receives a press of the “Simplified Scan” button B20, it displays a simplified settings screen related to the image transmission job. Similarly, the user can execute an email transmission job in normal mode by pressing the “Email” button B22. When the control unit 11 receives a press of the “Email” button B22, it displays a normal settings screen related to the email transmission job.

[0091] By the way, Figure 10 shows an example of displaying eight job / processing buttons that make up the job / processing selection button B12: the "Simple Copy" button, the "Simple Fax" button B16, the "Simple Scan" button B20, the "Mail" button B22, the "History Information" button B14, the "External Address Book" button B24, the "Scan and Save" button, and the "Fax" button B18. However, other job / processing buttons, such as the IFAX button that accepts the execution of an IFAX transmission job under normal mode, can be displayed by pressing the display switching button B26. Note that the example configuration of the job / processing selection button B12 shown in Figure 10 is just one example and is not limited to the items described in Figure 10.

[0092] Figure 11(a) shows an example configuration of the simplified settings screen W30 for fax transmission jobs. Figure 11(b) shows an example configuration of the normal settings screen W40 for fax transmission jobs. The simplified settings screen W30 can be displayed via the user's mode selection process through the history information display screen W10 in Figure 9, the home screen W20 in Figure 10, or via the normal settings screen W40. The normal settings screen W40 can be displayed, for example, via the user's mode selection process through the history information display screen W10 in Figure 9, the home screen W20 in Figure 10, or via the simplified settings screen W30. Note that this example operation corresponds to the process in step S20 of Figure 6.

[0093] The simplified settings screen W30 has fewer user-configurable settings than the standard settings screen W40, and has a simpler screen configuration. The simplified settings screen W30 includes a setting value button B28a, an operation control button B30a, a start button B32a, a standard settings button B34a, a display switching button B36a, and a destination display area R12a.

[0094] The setting value button B28a accepts the user's selection and input of configurable settings and various processing options via the simplified settings screen W30. For example, the user can press the address book button and set the fax destination as a setting value from the displayed address book (not shown). Figure 11(a) shows an example where four items are displayed as setting value buttons B28a: the "Address Book" button, the "Transmission History" button, the "Direct Input" button, and the "External Address Book" button B38a. Other setting value buttons B28a can be displayed by pressing the display switching button B36a.

[0095] When a user wants to obtain destination information from the terminal device 30, they press the “External Address Book” button B38a. Upon receiving the “External Address Book” button B38a, the control unit 11 reads the destination information acquisition program 233 and obtains destination information from the terminal device 30.

[0096] The operation control buttons B30a include, for example, a reset button, a preview button, a history information display button, and a manual receive button. For example, the reset button accepts a reset of a setting value selected and entered via a setting value button B28a, etc. The preview button accepts a command to display a preview image prior to executing a fax transmission job. The history information display button accepts a command to display the history information display screen W10, as exemplified in Figure 9. The manual receive button accepts input from the user for manual fax reception.

[0097] The start button B32a accepts input for executing a fax transmission job. When the start button B32a is pressed, the control unit 11 executes the processing related to the fax transmission job.

[0098] The normal settings button B34a accepts a command to switch the display to the normal settings screen W40.

[0099] The destination display area R12a is a display area that displays the destination of a fax transmission selected and entered via one of the following buttons on the setting value button B28a: the “Address Book” button, the “Transmission History” button, the “Direct Input” button, or the “External Address Book” button B38a.

[0100] The normal settings screen W40 shown in Figure 11(b) is configured to allow all settings related to the execution of a fax transmission job. The normal settings screen W40 includes a setting value button B28b, an operation control button B30b, a start button B32b, and a destination display area R12b. The setting value button B28b accepts the selection and input of configurable settings and the selection of various settings by the user via the normal settings screen W40. For example, the user can set the density setting value by pressing the density button and selecting the desired setting value from items related to density selection, such as "dark," "normal," "light," and "automatic" (not shown). Figure 11(b) shows an example where seven types of setting value items are provided as configurable setting value items: "density," "image quality," "original," "bulk original mode," "thin paper scanning," "thick paper scanning," and "mixed original." By the way, each setting value displayed on the surface of the setting value button B28b reflects the setting value from the applied setting history information (Figure 11(b) is an example where the setting value related to the history information of job ID "006" in Figure 3 is applied). However, the configuration of the setting value button B28b exemplified in Figure 11(b) is merely an example and is not limited to the items described in Figure 11(b).

[0101] In addition to the above-mentioned setting items, the setting button B28b also includes an "Other Functions" button. By pressing the "Other Functions" button, the user can access other setting items besides the displayed ones and select or input settings.

[0102] The operation control button B30b includes a preview button and a reset button, as well as extension function buttons such as the “External Address Book” button B38b, the “History Information” button, and the “Call by Search Number” button. When a user wants to obtain destination information from the terminal device 30, they press the “External Address Book” button B38b. Upon receiving the press of the “External Address Book” button B38b, the control unit 11 reads the destination information acquisition program 233 and acquires destination information from the terminal device 30.

[0103] Furthermore, the operation control button B30b includes the simple setting button B34b. The simple setting button B34b accepts a command to switch the display to the simple setting screen W30.

[0104] The start button B32b accepts input for executing a fax transmission job. When the start button B32b is pressed, the control unit 11 executes the processing related to the fax transmission job.

[0105] The destination display area R12b is a display area that displays fax destinations selected and entered via either the “External Address Book” button B38b, the “History Information” button, the “Call by Search Number” button, or direct input using the fax number input area R14 located approximately in the center of the normal settings screen W40.

[0106] Figure 12(a) shows an example configuration of the display screen W50 that displays the destination information of the terminal device 30 acquired after the “External Address Book” button B38a on the simplified setting screen W30 illustrated in Figure 11(a) is pressed. The display screen W50 includes the destination area R16. This example operation corresponds to the process in step S60 of Figure 6.

[0107] When obtaining destination information via the simplified settings screen W30 for a fax transmission job, only the fax number that is the destination for the fax transmission job is displayed in the destination area R16 as the destination type. Figure 12(a) is an example showing the destination name and fax number for destination information IDs "01" to "05" as exemplified in Figure 4.

[0108] Figure 12(b) shows an example configuration of the display screen W60 that displays the destination information of the terminal device 30 acquired after the "External Address Book" button B38b on the normal settings screen W40 illustrated in Figure 11(b) is pressed. The display screen W60 includes the destination area R18. This example operation corresponds to the process in step S80 of Figure 6.

[0109] When obtaining destination information via the normal settings screen W40 for a fax transmission job, in addition to the fax number which is the destination for the fax transmission job, a button B40 for displaying other destinations, which accepts input for destinations of other destination types, is displayed in the destination area R18. By pressing the button B40, the user can display destinations of other destination types in addition to the fax number, if any exist. Figure 12(b) is an example of displaying the destination name and fax number related to the destination information IDs "01" to "05" exemplified in Figure 4, similar to Figure 12(a).

[0110] Figure 13 shows an example configuration of the display screen W62 displayed by the control unit 11 in response to the pressing of the "Other Destinations" display button B40 on the display screen W60 in Figure 12. In the destination area R20 of the display screen W62, in addition to the configuration of the destination area R18, the email address and IFAX address related to the image transmission job for other destination types are displayed.

[0111] The destinations displayed in destination area R16 on display screen W50, destination area R18 on display screen W60, or destination area R20 on display screen W62 can be selected by the user. The selected destination can be set as the sending destination in destination display area R12a on the simple setting screen W30, destination display area R12b on the normal setting screen W40, etc.

[0112] Figure 14(a) shows an example configuration of the simplified settings screen W70 related to an image transmission job (email transmission job). Figure 14(b) shows an example configuration of the normal settings screen W80 related to an image transmission job. The simplified settings screen W70 can be displayed via the user's mode selection process through the history information display screen W10 in Figure 9, the home screen W20 in Figure 10, or via the normal settings screen W80. The normal settings screen W80 can be displayed, for example, via the user's mode selection process through the history information display screen W10 in Figure 9, the home screen W20 in Figure 10, or via the simplified settings screen W70. Note that this example operation corresponds to the process in step S20 of Figure 6.

[0113] The simplified settings screen W70 has fewer user-configurable settings than the standard settings screen W80, and has a simpler screen configuration. The simplified settings screen W70 includes a setting value button B28c, an operation control button B30c, a start button B32c, a standard settings button B34c, a display switching button B36c, and a destination display area R12c.

[0114] The setting value button B28c accepts the user's selection and input of configurable settings and various processing options via the simplified settings screen W70. For example, the user can press the address book button and set the destination for image transmission as a setting value from the displayed address book (not shown). Figure 14(a) shows an example where four items are displayed as setting value buttons: the "Address Book" button, the "Transmission History" button, the "External Address Book" button B38c, and the "Main Unit / Device Save" button. Note that the other setting value buttons B28c can be displayed by pressing the display switching button B36c.

[0115] When a user wants to obtain destination information from the terminal device 30, they press the “External Address Book” button B38c. Upon receiving the “External Address Book” button B38c, the control unit 11 reads the destination information acquisition program 233 and obtains destination information from the terminal device 30.

[0116] The operation control buttons B30c include, for example, a reset button, a preview button, an automatic setting button, and a history information display button. For example, the reset button accepts a reset of a setting value selected and entered via the setting value button B28c, etc. The preview button accepts a command to display a preview image prior to the execution of an image transmission job. The automatic setting button accepts the application of the device settings configured in the system settings. The history information display button accepts a command to display the history information display screen W10, as illustrated in Figure 9.

[0117] The start button B32c accepts input for executing an image transmission job. When the start button B32c is pressed, the control unit 11 executes the processing related to the image transmission job.

[0118] The normal settings button B34c accepts a command to switch the display to the normal settings screen W80.

[0119] The destination display area R12c is a display area that displays the destination of an image transmission selected and entered via one of the setting value buttons B28c: the “Address Book” button, the “Transmission History” button, or the “External Address Book” button B38c.

[0120] The normal settings screen W80 shown in Figure 14(b) is configured to allow all settings related to the execution of an image transmission job. The normal settings screen W80 includes a setting value button B28d, an operation control button B30d, a start button B32d, and a destination display area R12d.

[0121] The setting value button B28d accepts the selection and input of configurable settings and the selection of various settings by the user via the normal settings screen W80. For example, the user can set the color mode setting by pressing the color mode button and selecting the desired setting value from items related to color mode selection, such as "full color," "black and white," "monochromatic color," and "automatic (color / black and white)" (not shown). Figure 14(b) shows an example where five setting value items are provided as configurable setting value items: "color mode," "resolution," "format," "original," and "density." Incidentally, each setting value displayed on the surface of the setting value button B28d reflects the setting value from the selected setting history information (Figure 14(b) is an example where the setting value from the setting history information of job ID "002" in Figure 3 is applied). Incidentally, the configuration of the setting value button B28d exemplified in Figure 14(b) is merely an example and is not limited to the items described in Figure 14(b).

[0122] In addition to the above-mentioned setting items, the setting button B28d also includes an "Other Functions" button. By pressing the "Other Functions" button, the user can access other setting items besides the displayed ones and select or input settings.

[0123] The operation control button B30d includes a preview button and a reset button, as well as extension function buttons such as the “External Address Book” button B38d, the “History Information” button, and the “Call by Search Number” button. When a user wants to obtain destination information from the terminal device 30, they press the “External Address Book” button B38d. Upon receiving the press of the “External Address Book” button B38d, the control unit 11 reads the destination information acquisition program 233 and acquires destination information from the terminal device 30.

[0124] Furthermore, the operation control button B30d includes the simple setting button B34d. The simple setting button B34d accepts a command to switch the display to the simple setting screen W70.

[0125] The start button B32d accepts input for executing an image transmission job. When the start button B32d is pressed, the control unit 11 executes the processing related to the image transmission job.

[0126] The recipient display area R12d is a display area that displays email recipients selected or entered via the "External Address Book" button B38d, the "History Information" button, the "Recall by Search Number" button, or direct input.

[0127] Figure 15(a) shows an example configuration of the display screen W90 that displays the destination information of the terminal device 30 acquired after the “External Address Book” button B38c on the simplified setting screen W70 illustrated in Figure 14(a) is pressed. The display screen W90 includes the destination area R22.

[0128] When obtaining destination information via the simplified settings screen W70 for an image transmission job, only the email address or IFAX address that is the destination for the image transmission job is displayed in the destination area R22 as the destination type. Figure 15(a) is an example showing the destination name and email address or IFAX address for the destination information IDs "01", "02", "03", and "05" exemplified in Figure 4.

[0129] Figure 15(b) shows an example configuration of the display screen W100, which displays destination information of the terminal device 30 acquired after the "External Address Book" button B38d on the normal settings screen W80 illustrated in Figure 14(b) is pressed. The display screen W100 includes the destination area R24.

[0130] When obtaining destination information via the normal settings screen W80 for an image transmission job, in addition to the email address or IFAX address which is the destination for the image transmission job, a button B42 for displaying other destinations, which accepts input for destinations of other destination types, is displayed in the destination area R24. By pressing the button B42, the user can display destinations of other destination types in addition to the email address or IFAX address, if any exist. Figure 15(b) is an example of displaying the destination name and fax number for the destination information IDs "01", "02", "03", and "05" exemplified in Figure 4, similar to Figure 15(a).

[0131] Figure 16 shows one example of the configuration of the display screen W102 that the control unit 11 displays in response to the pressing of the other destination display button B42 on the display screen W100 in Figure 15. In the destination area R26 of the display screen W102, in addition to the configuration of the destination area R24, the fax number related to the other destination type is displayed.

[0132] The destinations displayed in destination area R22 on display screen W90, destination area R24 on display screen W100, or destination area R26 on display screen 102 can be selected by the user. The selected destination can be set as the sending destination in destination display area R12c on the simple setting screen W70, destination display area R12d on the normal setting screen W80, etc.

[0133] As described above, according to the first embodiment, by restricting the display of acquired destination information according to the operation mode of the transmission job when requesting the acquisition of destination information, the burden on the user regarding the selection of destination information can be reduced, and a more convenient image processing device can be provided.

[0134] [2 Second Embodiment] The first embodiment was a configuration in which the display of destination information was controlled in response to a request to acquire destination information via the normal settings screen related to normal mode or the simplified settings screen related to simplified mode. The second embodiment is a configuration in which the display of destination information was controlled in response to a request to acquire destination information via the home screen, which is one form of screen mode (basic mode).

[0135] [2.1 Functional Configuration] The configuration of the multifunction printer and terminal device according to the second embodiment can be the same as that of the multifunction printer 10 and terminal device 30 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of the functional configuration according to the second embodiment will be omitted, and the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment will be used for the description.

[0136] [2.2 Processing Flow] The processing flow according to the second embodiment will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 17. Note that for parts that are the same as those described in the flowchart in Figure 6 of the first embodiment, the same step numbers will be used, and their explanations may be omitted.

[0137] The control unit 11, for example, when the power is turned on, when in standby mode, when recovering from sleep mode, etc., reads the display processing program 235 and displays the home screen W20 exemplified in Figure 10 on the display unit 13 (step S90).

[0138] When the user presses the “external address book button” B24 on the home screen W20, the control unit 11 reads the destination information acquisition program 233. The control unit 11 then requests the terminal device 30 to output destination information. When the terminal device 30 outputs destination information, the control unit 11 acquires it (step S30).

[0139] When the control unit 11 obtains destination information from the terminal device 30, it reads the destination determination program 234 to determine the destination type and classify the destination (step S40).

[0140] Next, the control unit 11 determines the destination type to display based on the number of registered classified destinations (step S100). Specifically, the control unit 11 determines that the destination type with the most registered destinations in the terminal device 30 will be the destination type to display to the user.

[0141] The control unit 11 displays the display destination type determined in step S100 on the display unit 13 (step S110).

[0142] Then, the control unit 11 determines whether the destination type displayed on the display unit 13 has been selected by the user (step S120).

[0143] If the user selects a destination type displayed on the display unit 13, the control unit 11 displays the destination corresponding to that destination type on the display unit 13 (step S120; Yes → step S130).

[0144] The control unit 11 accepts the user's selection of a destination (step S140). Then, the control unit 11 executes a new job using the destination selected by the user and terminates the process (step S70).

[0145] Incidentally, if the destination type displayed on the display unit 13 is not selected by the user, the control unit 11 displays the next destination type on the display unit 13 (step S120; No → step S150). In this case, the control unit 11 determines the destination type with the most registered destinations among the destination types other than the destination type determined in step S100 as the next destination type and displays it on the display unit 13.

[0146] Then, the control unit 11 determines whether the destination information displayed on the display unit 13 has been selected by the user (step S160).

[0147] If the user selects a destination type displayed on the display unit 13, the control unit 11 displays the destination corresponding to that destination type on the display unit 13 (step S160; Yes → step S130).

[0148] The control unit 11 accepts the user's selection of a destination (step S140). Then, the control unit 11 executes a new job using the destination selected by the user and terminates the process (step S70). On the other hand, if the destination type displayed on the display unit 13 is not selected by the user, the control unit 11 repeats the process related to step S150 (step S160; No → step S150).

[0149] [2.3 Example of Operation] Next, an example of operation according to the second embodiment will be described. Figure 18(a) is an example of operation corresponding to the destination type display processing in step S110 of Figure 17, and is an example of the configuration of the destination type display screen W110 that the control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13. Figure 18(b) is an example of operation corresponding to the next destination type display processing in step S150 of Figure 17, and is an example of the configuration of the next destination type display screen W120 that the control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13. Note that Figure 18 shows an example of operation when, in the destination type determination processing related to step S100 of Figure 17, a fax transmission job is determined as the destination type, and then an image transmission job is determined as the next destination type following the fax transmission job.

[0150] The destination type display screen W110 includes the destination type display area R28. The destination type display area R28 includes the destination type selection inquiry screen M10, the "Yes" button B44, and the "No" button B46.

[0151] The destination type selection inquiry screen M10 is a screen that asks the user whether or not to select a destination type determined based on the number of registered destinations in step S120 of Figure 17.

[0152] The "Yes" button B44 is a button that accepts a press when the user selects a destination type (in this example, "Fax transmission job") displayed on the destination type selection inquiry screen M10. When the "Yes" button B44 is pressed, the control unit 11 displays a display screen W50 or display screen W60 on the display unit 13, with the fax number exemplified in Figure 12(a) or (b) as the destination.

[0153] The "No" button B46 is a button that is pressed when the user does not select a destination type displayed on the destination type selection inquiry screen M10. When the "No" button B46 is pressed, the control unit 11 displays the next destination type display screen W120 on the display unit 13.

[0154] The next destination type display screen W120 includes the next destination type display area R30. The next destination type display area R30 includes the next destination type selection inquiry screen M12, the "Yes" button B48, and the "No" button B50.

[0155] The next destination type selection inquiry screen M12 is a screen that asks the user whether or not to select the destination type with the most registered destinations among the destination types other than the destination type determined in step S100 as the next destination type.

[0156] The "Yes" button B48 is a button that accepts a press when the user selects the next destination type (in this example, "Image transmission job") displayed on the next destination type selection inquiry screen M12. When the "Yes" button B48 is pressed, the control unit 11 displays the display screen W90 or display screen W100 on the display unit 13, with the email address and IFAX address shown as examples in Figure 15(a) or (b) as the destination.

[0157] The "No" button B50 is a button that accepts a press if the user does not select the next destination type displayed on the next destination type selection inquiry screen M12. When the "No" button B50 is pressed, the control unit 11 displays the destination type with the next highest number of registered destinations after the next destination type on the display unit 13.

[0158] As described above, according to the second embodiment, when a request to acquire destination information is made via the home screen as the basic mode, the terminal device 30 can display destination types related to destinations with a large number of registered destinations in order, thereby reducing the burden on the user in selecting destination information and providing a more convenient image processing device, etc.

[0159] [3 Third Embodiment] The second embodiment was a configuration in which the terminal device 30 displayed destination types to the user in order from the destination with the most registered destinations. The third embodiment is a configuration in which it is possible to check the number of registered destinations as the number of acquired items for each destination type.

[0160] [3.1 Functional Configuration] The configuration of the multifunction printer and terminal device according to the third embodiment can be the same as that of the multifunction printer 10 and terminal device 30 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of the functional configuration according to the third embodiment will be omitted, and the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment will be used for the description.

[0161] [3.2 Processing Flow] The processing flow according to the third embodiment is such that the process of step S110, described in the flowchart of Figure 17 of the second embodiment, is replaced with the process of step S170 illustrated in Figure 19. Here, we will describe the process that differs from the flowchart of Figure 17.

[0162] In step S100, the control unit 11 determines the destination type to display based on the number of registered classified destinations, and then displays the number of destinations for each destination type (step S170).

[0163] Then, the control unit 11 determines whether the destination type displayed on the display unit 13 has been selected by the user (step S120).

[0164] If the user selects a destination type displayed on the display unit 13, the control unit 11 displays the destination corresponding to that destination type on the display unit 13 (step S120; Yes → step S130). On the other hand, if the user does not select a destination type displayed on the display unit 13, the control unit 11 returns to step S170 (step S120; No → step S170).

[0165] [3.3 Example of Operation] Next, an example of operation according to the third embodiment will be described. Figure 20 is an example of operation corresponding to the destination number display process in step S170 of Figure 19, and is an example of the configuration of the destination number display screen W130 that the control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13.

[0166] The destination number display screen W130 includes the destination number display area R32. The destination number display area R32 includes the destination number display areas R34 and R36 for each type, which serve as selection screens, and the destination type selection inquiry screen M14.

[0167] Areas R34 and R36, which display the number of destinations by type, are areas that display the number of registered destinations for each destination type. In the example in Figure 20, area R34 displays the number of registered destinations related to fax transmission jobs as the destination type. Similarly, area R36 displays the number of registered destinations related to image transmission jobs as the destination type.

[0168] Furthermore, the destination count display areas R34 and R36 for each destination type are configured to be selectable (pressable) by the user. When the user selects either destination count display area R34 or R36 for each destination type, the control unit 11 displays the destinations related to that destination type on the display unit 13.

[0169] The destination type selection inquiry screen M14 is a screen that prompts the user to select a destination type based on the number of registered destinations displayed in the destination count display areas R34 and R36 for each type.

[0170] As described above, according to the third embodiment, when a request to acquire destination information is made via the home screen, it is possible to check the number of registered destinations for each destination type, thereby reducing the burden on the user in selecting destination information and providing a more convenient image processing device, etc.

[0171] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible. That is, embodiments obtained by combining technical means that are appropriately modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0172] Furthermore, although the embodiments described above are explained separately for the sake of explanation, it goes without saying that they may be combined and implemented to the extent that is technically possible.

[0173] Furthermore, in the embodiments, the programs that run in each device are programs that control the CPU and the like (programs that make the computer function) in order to realize the functions of the embodiments described above. The information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (for example, RAM) during processing, and then stored in storage devices such as various ROMs and HDDs, and read, modified, and written by the CPU as needed.

[0174] Here, the recording medium for storing the program may be any of the following: semiconductor media (e.g., ROM or non-volatile memory card), optical recording medium / magneto-optical recording medium (e.g., DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), MO (Magneto Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), CD (Compact Disc), BD (Blu-ray® Disc), etc.), magnetic recording medium (e.g., magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.). Furthermore, in addition to realizing the functions of the above-described embodiment by executing the loaded program, the functions of the present invention may also be realized by processing in cooperation with the operating system or other application programs based on the instructions of the program.

[0175] Furthermore, when distributing the program to the market, it can be stored on a portable recording medium and distributed, or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the storage device of the server computer is, of course, also included in the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0176] 10 Multifunction device 11 Control Unit 13 Display section 15 Operation Input Section 17 Communications Department 19 Image forming unit 21 Image reading unit 23 Memory section 231 Job execution program 232 History Information Processing Program 233 Destination Information Acquisition Program 234 Destination Determination Program 235 Display Processing Program 236 History Information Storage Area 237 Destination information storage area 30 Terminal devices 31 Control Unit 33 Display section 35 Operation Input Section 37 Communications Department 39 Memory section 391 Application Programs 392 Destination Information Management Program 393 Destination information storage area

Claims

1. Display unit and Control unit and A memory unit that stores the job execution settings history, Equipped with, The control unit, When the job is executed in normal mode, the setting history is stored in the storage unit as the setting history for the job execution in normal mode. When the job is executed in a simplified mode with fewer setting items than the normal mode, the setting history is stored in the storage unit as the setting history for the job execution in the simplified mode. The setting history for job execution in normal mode and the setting history for job execution in simplified mode are displayed on the display unit in a selectable manner. If the setting history for job execution in normal mode is selected, the display unit will display a normal history information screen that reflects the setting history for job execution in normal mode. If the setting history for job execution in the simplified mode is selected, the simplified history information display screen reflecting the setting history for job execution in the simplified mode is displayed on the display unit. The aforementioned normal history information display screen shows information indicating that it is a job in normal mode. The aforementioned simplified history information display screen shows information indicating that it is in simplified mode. An image forming apparatus characterized by the following features.

2. The aforementioned normal history information reflection screen displays information indicating that the job's screen mode is normal mode. The aforementioned simplified history information display screen shows information indicating that the job's screen mode is simplified mode. The image forming apparatus according to feature 1.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the simplified history information reflection screen includes buttons for transitioning to screens corresponding to different screen modes.

Images