Image processing device and control method

Abstract

To provide an image processing device and the like that enable users to efficiently select destination information received from a terminal device.SOLUTION: An image processing device includes: a receiving unit that communicates with a terminal device and receives destination information including information on groups from the terminal device; a selection unit that selects information on one group from the information on the groups included in the destination information based on a selection group history when a storage unit stores the selection group history indicating that the information on the groups was selected in the past; and a screen display unit that performs control to display destination information including the information on the one group selected by the selection unit on a display unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an image processing device and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, digital multifunction peripherals (MFPs; Multi-Function Peripheral / Printers) have been widely used, which have functions such as copying, printing, scanning, and email transmission. Some multifunction peripherals also have a function of transmitting an image of a document read by the scanner function to a destination designated by a user.

[0003] Also, a technique for acquiring destination information from another device has been proposed. For example, an image processing device has been proposed that acquires destination information from a mobile terminal, and switches the image processing function to be executed and sets the image processing function based on the acquired destination information (for example, see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2019-062349 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] When destination information is transferred (transmitted) to the image processing device, destination information stored in a device (e.g., a terminal device) operated by a user may be transmitted in a lump. In addition, after the image processing device executes a job to transmit an image, destination information acquired from another device may be deleted. This is because it is not appropriate to keep storing destination information received from another device in the image processing device in terms of security and the like. However, since information on destination information acquired from another device is not stored in the image processing device, operations input by the user (e.g., information on a group selected to narrow down destination information) are not stored in the image processing device. Therefore, the user needs to reselect destinations by narrowing down destinations, etc., every time destination information is transferred to the image processing device. As a result, there is a problem that the number of operations (the number of operation steps) required to select a destination increases, which impairs user convenience.

[0006] In view of the above-mentioned problems, an object of the present disclosure is to provide an image processing device and the like that can allow a user to efficiently select destination information received from a terminal device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the image processing device disclosed herein is characterized in that it comprises a receiving unit that communicates with a terminal device and receives destination information including group information from the terminal device, a selection unit that, when a selection group history indicating that the group information has been selected in the past is stored in a memory unit, selects one group of information from the group information included in the destination information based on the selection group history, and a screen display unit that controls the display of the destination information including the one group information selected by the selection unit on a display unit.

[0008] Furthermore, the control method according to the present disclosure is characterized in that it includes a receiving step of communicating with a terminal device and receiving destination information including group information from the terminal device; if a selection group history indicating that the group information has been selected in the past is stored in a memory unit, a selection step of selecting one group information from the group information included in the destination information based on the selection group history; and a display step of displaying the destination information including the one group information selected in the selection step on a display unit. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an image processing device or the like that is capable of allowing a user to efficiently select destination information received from a terminal device. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the overall configuration of a system in a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the functional configuration of a terminal device in the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] 4 is a diagram for explaining an example of a data structure of address book data stored in the terminal device in the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the image processing device according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] 4 is a diagram for explaining an example of a data structure of address book data stored in the image processing device in the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 6] 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure of a selection group history in the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 7] 5 is a diagram for explaining an example of a data structure of a selected destination history in the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 8] 4 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of a process executed by a terminal device in the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 9]FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of processing executed by the image processing device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating the flow of a destination selection process in the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an operation example in the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an operation example in the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an operation example in the first embodiment. [Figure 14] 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of an address book data structure stored in a terminal device in an application example of the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining an example of operation in an application example of the first embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating the flow of a destination selection process in the second embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining an operation example in the second embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining an operation example in the second embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a destination selection process in the third embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an operation example in the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, an embodiment for carrying out the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiment is an example for explaining the present disclosure, and the technical scope of the invention described in the claims is not limited to the following description.

[0012] [1. First embodiment] [1.1 Overall structure] A system 1 in this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 1, the system 1 in this embodiment includes a terminal device 10 and an image processing device 20. In addition, the terminal device 10 and the image processing device 20 have a function of performing short-distance wireless communication.

[0013] The terminal device 10 is an information processing device carried by a user. The terminal device 10 is, for example, a device such as a smartphone or a tablet. The terminal device 10 may also be a device such as a smart watch, a PC (Personal Computer), or a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant).

[0014] The image processing device 20 is a device having a copy function, a print function, a scanner function, an e-mail transmission function, etc., and is generally called a digital multifunction peripheral (MFP). Note that the image processing device 20 may be an image forming device equipped with a means for forming an image on recording paper such as paper or an OHP film by using a means such as an electrophotographic method.

[0015] [1.2 Functional configuration] [1.2.1 Terminal Equipment] The configuration of the terminal device 10 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 2. As shown in Fig. 2, the terminal device 10 includes a control unit 100, a display unit 140, an operation unit 150, a storage unit 160, a short-range wireless communication unit 180, and a communication unit 190.

[0016] The control unit 100 controls the entire terminal device 10. The control unit 100 realizes various functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 160, and is configured with one or more arithmetic units (for example, CPUs (Central Processing Units)).

[0017] The display unit 140 displays various types of information. The display unit 140 is configured with a display device such as an LCD (Liquid crystal display), an organic EL (electro-luminescence) panel, or a micro LED (Light Emitting Diode) display.

[0018] The operation unit 150 accepts operations by a user who uses the terminal device 10. The operation unit 150 is configured with an input device such as a touch sensor. The touch sensor may detect an input using a general detection method such as a resistive film method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, or a capacitive method. The terminal device 10 may be equipped with a touch panel in which the display unit 140 and the operation unit 150 are integrally formed.

[0019] The storage unit 160 stores various programs and various data necessary for the operation of the terminal device 10. The storage unit 160 is configured by a storage device such as a solid state drive (SSD) that is a semiconductor memory or a hard disk drive (HDD), for example.

[0020] The storage unit 160 secures an address book data storage area 162 as a storage area. The address book data storage area 162 stores information on destinations (destination information), such as the user's name, company name, destination of data, and group to which the user belongs. The destination information is information that is generally displayed or managed by a function called an address book or a phone book. In this embodiment, the destination information is described as address book data.

[0021] Fig. 3 shows an example of the data structure of the address book data stored in the address book data storage area 162. As shown in Fig. 3, the address book data stored in the address book data storage area 162 includes a user's name (e.g., "Customer 1"), the user's phone number (e.g., "03-1111-2222"), the user's email address (e.g., "info@a-sha.com"), and a group name (e.g., "Customer").

[0022] A group name is attribute information for a user stored in address book data, and specifically, is a value (attribute value) of a "group" attribute used to classify users. For example, the example shown in Fig. 3 shows that for each address book data, group names such as "clients" and "employees" are stored as specific values ​​(attribute values) of an attribute called "group" (attribute name).

[0023] The attribute may be, for example, a label, a tag, a category, or information on whether it is a favorite or not. Information on the label, tag, favorite, etc. is information used to classify (group) users and address book data. In other words, information on the label, tag, favorite, etc. is a type of group information.

[0024] When the attribute is a label or a favorite, the following information is stored as the attribute. · Labels (tags, categories) One or more pieces of classification information are stored as attribute values. Classification information is information for identifying a label (tag / category). Classification information is the name of a label or the like (label name), identification information for identifying the label name (label ID), and the like. When identification information is stored as classification information, the storage unit 160 stores information in which the identification information is associated with the name of the label or the like. In this manner, the terminal device 10 can identify the name of the label or the like from the identification information. ·favorite As the attribute value, information that can distinguish whether or not the address book data has been designated as a favorite by the user is stored. Specifically, information such as "yes" or "no" may be stored as the attribute value, or a flag may be stored. In addition, predetermined information may be stored in the attribute value of the address book data designated as a favorite, and no information may be stored in the attribute value of the address book data not designated as a favorite. In this case, whether or not it is a favorite is determined based on the presence or absence of the attribute value.

[0025] Note that a single piece of address book data may store a plurality of attributes, for example, a group attribute and a label attribute may be stored in a single piece of address book data.

[0026] Furthermore, a plurality of telephone passwords and e-mail addresses may be stored in the address book data stored in the address book data storage area 162. Furthermore, in addition to the above-mentioned information, the address book data stored in the address book data storage area 162 may store information such as phonetic names, facsimile numbers, addresses, company names, department names, and memos.

[0027] The short-range wireless communication unit 180 performs wireless communication with other devices located around the terminal device 10. The short-range wireless communication unit 180 is configured by, for example, a communication device equipped with an antenna. The wireless communication method used by the short-range wireless communication unit 180 may be any method that is generally used for short-range communication, such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC (Near Field Communication), ZigBee (registered trademark), or wireless USB.

[0028] The communication unit 190 communicates with an external device via a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN). The communication unit 190 is configured, for example, with a network interface card (NIC) used in a wired / wireless LAN, or a communication module connectable to a long term evolution (LTE) / LTE-Advanced (LTE-A) / License-Assisted Access using LTE (LAA) / 5G line.

[0029] [1.2.2 Image processing device] The configuration of the image processing device 20 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 4. As shown in Fig. 4, the image processing device 20 includes a control unit 200, an image input unit 220, an image forming unit 230, a display unit 240, an operation unit 250, a storage unit 260, a short-range wireless communication unit 280, and a communication unit 290.

[0030] The control unit 200 controls the entire image processing device 20. The control unit 200 realizes various functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 260, and is composed of one or more arithmetic units (e.g., CPUs).

[0031] The image input unit 220 reads an original document and inputs data of the read image. For example, the image input unit 220 is configured with a scanning device or the like equipped with a device that converts optical information such as a CIS (Contact Image Sensor) or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) into an electrical signal, and reads an original document placed on a placement table of the image processing device 20. The image input unit 220 may be configured with an interface (terminal) for reading an image stored in a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory.

[0032] The image forming unit 230 forms (prints) an image on a recording medium such as a recording paper, etc. The image forming unit 230 is configured, for example, by a laser printer or the like that utilizes an electrophotographic method.

[0033] The display unit 240 displays various information. The display unit 240 is configured with a display device such as an LCD, an organic EL panel, or a micro LED display.

[0034] The operation unit 250 accepts operations by a user who uses the image processing device 20. The operation unit 250 is configured with input devices such as hardware keys (physical keys, numeric keypad) and touch sensors. The touch sensor may detect an input using any common detection method, such as a resistive film method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, or a capacitive method. The image processing device 20 may be equipped with a touch panel in which the display unit 240 and the operation unit 250 are integrally formed.

[0035] The storage unit 260 stores various programs and various data necessary for the operation of the image processing device 20. The storage unit 260 is configured by a storage device such as an SSD, which is a semiconductor memory, or an HDD.

[0036] The storage unit 260 has an image data storage area 262, an address book data storage area 264, a received address book data storage area 266, a selected group history storage area 268, and a selected destination history storage area 270 secured as storage areas.

[0037] Image data storage area 262 stores image data of an image input by image input unit 220. The image data may be, for example, data (print data) expressing an image formed by image forming unit 230, or a file in a format readable by other devices.

[0038] The address book data storage area 264 stores data (address book data) that is generally displayed or managed by a function called an address book or a telephone book. An example of the data configuration of the address book data stored in the address book data storage area 264 is shown in Fig. 5. As shown in Fig. 5, the address book data stored in the address book data storage area 264 stores the name of a user (e.g., "Takagi XX"), the facsimile number of the user (e.g., "03-0987-6543"), and the email address of the user (e.g., "takagi@example.com").

[0039] A plurality of e-mail addresses and facsimile numbers may be stored in the address book data stored in the address book data storage area 264. In addition to the above-mentioned information, the address book data stored in the address book data storage area 264 may also store information such as an address, a company name, a department name, memos, and attribute information.

[0040] The received address book data storage area 266 stores address book data received from the terminal device 10. The data configuration of the address book data stored in the received address book data storage area 266 is similar to that of the address book data stored in the address book data storage area 162 shown in FIG.

[0041] The selected group history storage area 268 stores information (selected group history) of group names selected by the user when narrowing down the address book data received from the terminal device 10. Specifically, the selected group history is information on groups such as group names included in the address book data received from the terminal device 10, and is information indicating groups selected when an operation to narrow down the address book data received from the terminal device 10 in the past was performed.

[0042] An example of the data configuration of the selected group history is shown in Fig. 6. As shown in Fig. 6, the selected group history stores a terminal device ID (e.g., "35-123456-789012-3") for identifying the terminal device 10 and a group name (e.g., "Customer") selected by the user.

[0043] The terminal device ID is unique information related to the terminal device 10. For example, the terminal device ID is information such as an IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identifier) ​​associated with a SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card attached to the terminal device 10, a serial number, or a telephone number.

[0044] The selected destination history storage area 270 stores the history of destinations selected by the user (selected destination history). An example of the data configuration of the selected destination history is shown in FIG. 7. As shown in FIG. 7, the selected destination history stores a terminal device ID (e.g., "35-123456-789012-3") for identifying the terminal device 10, a destination (e.g., "eigyo@b-sha.com"), and a sending date and time (e.g., "January 15, 2021 19:02:21").

[0045] The destination is information indicating the destination of the image data, and for example, an email address or a facsimile number is stored.

[0046] In addition, there are cases where the terminal device ID is not stored in the selected destination history. Specifically, if the destination is a destination selected from the address book data acquired from the terminal device 10, the identification information of the terminal device 10 is stored as the terminal device ID. On the other hand, if the destination is a destination selected from the address book data stored in the image processing device 20, the terminal device ID is not stored.

[0047] The short-range wireless communication unit 280 performs wireless communication with other devices located around the image processing device 20. The short-range wireless communication unit 280 is configured by, for example, a communication device equipped with an antenna. The wireless communication method used by the short-range wireless communication unit 280 may be any method that is generally used for short-range communication, such as Bluetooth, NFC, ZigBee, or wireless USB.

[0048] The communication unit 290 communicates with other devices. For example, the communication unit 290 is configured with a communication device or a communication module such as a NIC used in a wired / wireless LAN, and communicates with external devices via a LAN or a WAN. The communication unit 290 may also be configured to be connectable to a communication network such as a public line network, a LAN, or the Internet, and to transmit and receive image data to and from external devices via the communication network by a communication method such as facsimile or e-mail.

[0049] [1.3 Processing flow] 1.3.1 Terminal Equipment The process executed by the terminal device 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 8. The process shown in Fig. 8 is executed by the control unit 100 reading out a program stored in the storage unit 160. It is also assumed that the terminal device 10 and the image processing device 20 are in a communicable state in advance by pairing or an operation equivalent to pairing.

[0050] First, the control unit 100 determines whether or not a request to transfer address book data (address book data transfer request) has been received from the image processing device 20 via the short-range wireless communication unit 180 (step S100).

[0051] When the control unit 100 determines that it has received an address book data transfer request, it reads out all of the address book data stored in the address book data storage area 162. Next, the control unit 100 transmits the terminal device ID (e.g., IMEI, serial number, or telephone number) and the read out address book data to the image processing device 20 that has sent the address book data transfer request via the short-range wireless communication unit 180 (step S100; Yes→step S102).

[0052] For example, the control unit 100 transmits (transfers) all of the address book data stored in the address book data storage area 162 to the image processing device 20 at once using a Bluetooth profile such as OPP (Object Push Profile) or PBAP (Phone Book Access Profile).

[0053] If the control unit 100 determines that the address book data transfer request has not been received, the control unit 100 repeats the process of step S100 (step S100; No).

[0054] [1.3.2 Image processing device] The process executed by the image processing device 20 will be described with reference to Fig. 9 and Fig. 10. The process shown in Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 is executed by the control unit 200 reading out a program stored in the storage unit 260, and is executed particularly when an instruction is given to execute a job for transmitting image data to another device. It is assumed that the image processing device 20 and the terminal device 10 are in a state in which they can communicate with each other in advance by pairing or an operation equivalent to pairing.

[0055] First, the process shown in Fig. 9 will be described. First, the control unit 200 acquires image data via the image input unit 220 (step S110). Note that the control unit 200 may store the image data of the image acquired in S110 in the image data storage area 262.

[0056] Next, the control unit 200 determines whether or not to use the address book data stored in the terminal device 10 (step S112). For example, the control unit 200 displays a button such as "Refer to the phone book of the external device" on the display unit 240, and when the button is selected by the user, determines that the address book data is to be used.

[0057] When the control unit 200 determines to use the address book data stored in the terminal device 10, it transmits an address book data transfer request to the terminal device 10 via the short-range wireless communication unit 280 (step S112; Yes->step S114). After that, the control unit 200 receives the address book data and the terminal device ID of the terminal device 10 from the terminal device 10 via the short-range wireless communication unit 280 (step S116).

[0058] Next, the control unit 200 stores the address book data received from the terminal device 10 in the received address book data storage area 266 (step S118). At this time, the control unit 200 extracts group names from the received address book data (step S120). For example, when the control unit 200 receives the address book data shown in Fig. 3 in step S118, it extracts the group names "Business Partners" and "Employees" stored in the received address book data.

[0059] Next, control unit 200 displays a destination selection screen on display unit 240 (step S122). The destination selection screen is a screen for allowing the user to select a destination (transmission destination) of the image data acquired in step S110. For example, control unit 200 executes a process of generating a screen including a selectable list of the address book data stored in step S118 and a selectable list of the group names extracted in step S120, and displays the screen on display unit 240.

[0060] Note that the control unit 200 may further add an item indicating that no group name is to be selected (for example, "not specified") to the list from which the group names extracted in step S120 can be selected.

[0061] Next, the control unit 200 executes a process for selecting a destination of the image data (destination selection process) based on a user's operation input via the screen displayed in step S122 (step S124). The destination selection process will be described with reference to FIG.

[0062] First, the control unit 200 determines whether or not there is a selected group history corresponding to the terminal device 10 that transmitted the address book data (step S160). For example, the control unit 200 searches the selected group history storage area 268 for a selected group history in which the same information as the terminal device ID received in step S116 is stored. If the control unit 200 can search for the selected group history, it determines that there is a selected group history corresponding to the terminal device 10 that transmitted the address book data.

[0063] When the control unit 200 determines that there is a selected group history, it selects a group name based on the selected group history (step S160; Yes->step S162). For example, the control unit 200 selects an item corresponding to the group name stored in the selected group history searched in step S160 from the selectable group name list included in the destination selection screen displayed in step S122.

[0064] On the other hand, when the control unit 200 determines that there is no selected group history, it selects one group name (for example, a default group name) by a predetermined method (step S160; No -> step S164). For example, the control unit 200 selects the first group name extracted from the group names extracted in step S120 as the default group name. Note that the control unit 200 may select an item indicating that no group name is selected (for example, "Not specified") as the default group name.

[0065] Next, the control unit 200 displays the address book data in which the selected group name is stored (step S166). For example, the control unit 200 reads out from the address book data storage area 264 the address book data in which the same group name as the group name selected in step S162 or step S164 is stored. The control unit 200 then displays the read out address book data in a list in which the address book data can be selected. Note that in this embodiment, displaying the address book data means performing a display based on the data stored in the address book data. For example, as a process of displaying the address book data, the control unit 200 executes a process of displaying the names stored in the address book data as characters at a predetermined position on the display unit 240 (for example, a list in which the address book data can be selected).

[0066] Next, the control unit 200 determines whether or not a group name has been selected by the user (step S168). For example, the control unit 200 determines that a group name has been selected by the user when the user performs an operation to change a selected item from a list of selectable group names displayed on the destination selection screen.

[0067] When the control unit 200 determines that a group name has been selected by the user, it updates the address book data displayed by the process in step S166 to display address book data in which the selected group name is stored (step S168; Yes->step S170). The process in step S170 is the same as the process in step S166. In this way, by executing the processes in steps S168 and S170, the control unit 200 can narrow down the address book data received from the terminal device 10 and display the narrowed down results on the destination selection screen.

[0068] On the other hand, when it is determined that the group name has not been selected, the control unit 200 determines whether or not the address book data has been selected (step S168; No->step S172). In this embodiment, the selection of the address book data means that one address book data is selected from the displayed address book data. For example, when a name stored in the address book data is displayed as characters at a predetermined position on the display unit 240, and the displayed characters are selected by the user, the control unit 200 determines that the address book data has been selected.

[0069] When the control unit 200 determines that the address book data has been selected, it selects the address corresponding to the selected address book data as the destination of the image data (step S172; Yes -> step S174). The address is a facsimile number or an e-mail address. When the control unit 200 transmits the image data acquired in step S110 to another device via a facsimile line, it selects the facsimile number as the destination. On the other hand, when the control unit 200 transmits the image data acquired in step S110 to another device by attaching it to an e-mail, it selects the e-mail address as the destination.

[0070] Next, the control unit 200 stores the selected group history (step S176). For example, the control unit 200 stores the selected destination history including the terminal device ID received in step S116 and the group name selected on the destination selection screen in the selected group history storage area 268. If the selected destination history storing the same information as the terminal device ID received in step S116 is stored in the selected group history storage area 268, the control unit 200 updates the group name included in the stored selected destination history to the group name selected on the destination selection screen.

[0071] If the control unit 200 determines in step S172 that the address book data has not been selected, the process returns to step S168 (step S172; No→step S168).

[0072] Through the above-described processing, the destination corresponding to the address book data selected by the user is selected as the destination of the image data, and the group name selected on the destination selection screen at that time is stored as the selected group history.

[0073] Returning to FIG. 9, the control unit 200 transmits the image data acquired in step S110 to the destination selected in step S124 via the communication unit 290 (step S126).

[0074] Next, the control unit 200 stores the selected destination history (step S128). For example, the control unit 200 stores the selected destination history including the terminal device ID received in step S116, the destination selected in step S174, and the date and time when the image data was transmitted in the selected destination history storage area 270.

[0075] Next, the control unit 200 deletes the address book data stored in step S118 (the address book data received from the terminal device 10) from the received address book data storage area 266 (step S130).

[0076] [1.4 Example of operation] Next, an operation example in this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 11 to Fig. 13. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing a case where address book data is transferred from a certain terminal device 10 (target terminal device) to the image processing device 20 for the first time.

[0077] 11(a) is an example showing a display screen W100 displayed on the display unit 240 when address book data T100 stored in a target terminal device is transferred to the image processing device 20. A message M100 indicating that the address book data is being transferred is displayed on the display screen W100.

[0078] Fig. 11(b) is an example showing a display screen W110 displayed on the display unit 240 when the transfer of the address book data from the target terminal device to the image processing device 20 is completed. As shown in Fig. 11(b), the display screen W110 includes a list E110 for selecting the address book data received from the target terminal device and a list E112 for selecting a group name.

[0079] Here, since the address book data is transferred from the target terminal device for the first time, the group name stored in the address book data received from the target terminal device has never been selected in the image processing device 20. In other words, the image processing device 20 does not store a selected group history corresponding to the target terminal device. As a result, a default group name (for example, "Not Specified") is selected in the list E112 for selecting a group name.

[0080] Fig. 12 is a diagram showing a case where a group name is selected on the display screen W110. Fig. 12(a) is an example showing a display screen W120 displayed on the display unit 240 when one group name is selected by the user. For example, Fig. 12(a) shows a case where "Customer" is selected as the group name by the user. As shown in Fig. 12(a), "Customer" is selected in the list E122 for selecting a group name. Furthermore, the list E120 for selecting address book data displays address book data in which "Customer" is stored as the group name (for example, names stored in the address book data).

[0081] Fig. 12(b) is an example showing a display screen W130 displayed on the display unit 240 when address book data is selected by the user. As shown in Fig. 12(b), for example, the user selects an item E132 of address book data (e.g., "Customer 2") from a list E130 for selecting address book data. In this case, Fig. 12(b) shows item E132 highlighted.

[0082] At this time, when the image data is transmitted, the image processing device 20 stores the group name selected by the user, that is, "Customers", as a selected group history corresponding to the target terminal device.

[0083] Fig. 13 is a diagram showing a case where address book data is transferred again from the target terminal device to the image processing device 20. Fig. 13(a) is an example showing a display screen W140 displayed on the display unit 240 when address book data T140 stored in the target terminal device is transferred to the image processing device 20. A message M140 indicating that the address book data is being transferred is displayed on the display screen W140.

[0084] Fig. 13(b) is an example showing a display screen W150 displayed on the display unit 240 when the transfer of the address book data from the target terminal device to the image processing device 20 is completed. As shown in Fig. 11(b), the display screen W150 includes a list E150 for selecting the address book data received from the target terminal device and a list E152 for selecting one group name from the group names stored in the address book data.

[0085] Here, the image processing device 20 stores a selection group history corresponding to the target terminal device. For example, if the group name "Customer" is stored in the selection group history corresponding to the target terminal device, "Customer" is selected in the list E152, and the address book data in which "Customer" is stored as the group name in the list E150 is displayed. This allows the user to confirm that the group name "Customer" has been selected in advance. Also, the user can select the address book data in which "Customer" is stored as the group name from the list E150 without performing an operation to select "Customer" from the list E152.

[0086] In the embodiment, one selected group history is stored for one terminal device 10. In this manner, when address book data is transferred from the terminal device 10 to the image processing device 20, the image processing device 20 can display the destination selection screen with the group with the most recent sending date (the group name last selected by the user) pre-selected. In other words, the image processing device 20 can preferentially display the group with the most recent sending date. However, multiple selected group histories may be stored for one terminal device 10.

[0087] In this case, in step S176 of FIG. 10, the control unit 200 stores, as selected group history information, information on the date and time when the group name was selected by the user, in addition to the terminal device ID and the group name.

[0088] 10, the control unit 200 extracts a predetermined number of selected group information items beginning with the most recent ones among the selected group information items corresponding to the terminal device 10 that transmitted the address book data, and counts the group names. Then, the control unit 200 selects the group name that is most frequently stored. In this way, the control unit 200 can select the group with the highest transmission frequency (the group name that is most frequently selected by users).

[0089] When a plurality of group names are found to be groups with high transmission frequencies as a result of tallying up the group names, the control unit 200 selects the group name last selected by the user from among the plurality of group names. The control unit 200 may select the group with the highest recent transmission frequency from among the plurality of group names (for example, the group name selected the most times in a predetermined period or the group name selected at the shortest interval).

[0090] [1.5 Application Examples] An application example of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 14 and 15. The application example is a case where attributes of a plurality of groups are assigned to the address book data stored in the terminal device 10.

[0091] An example of the data configuration of the address book data in the application example is shown in Fig. 14. The address book data stored in the address book data storage area 162 stores the user's name, the user's telephone number, the user's email address, and a group name (for example, "Customers"), as in Fig. 3. Here, in the application example, a plurality of group names can be stored in the group name, such as "Customers, Product A".

[0092] In the application example, in step S176 in Fig. 10, the control unit 200 stores the group name selected by the user as a selected group history. In step S162 in Fig. 10, the control unit 200 selects the group name stored in the selected group history corresponding to the terminal device 10 that transferred the address book data. In this manner, the control unit 200 can display the destination selection screen with the group name last selected by the user preselected.

[0093] An operation example in the application example will be described with reference to Fig. 15. Fig. 15(a) is an example showing a display screen W160 displayed on the display unit 240 when the transfer of address book data from the terminal device 10 to the image processing device 20 is completed. The display screen W160 includes a list E160 for selecting the address book data received from the terminal device 10, and a button E162 for selecting zero or more group names.

[0094] 15(a) shows a case where "Customer, Product A" is selected as the group name. In this case, list E160 displays address book data in which "Customer" and "Product A" are stored as group names. When multiple group names are selected, control unit 200 may display in list E160 address book data in which all selected group names are stored, or may display in list E160 address book data in which any selected group name is stored.

[0095] Fig. 15(b) is an example showing a display screen W170 displayed on display unit 240 when button E162 is selected. Display screen W170 displays a dialogue D170 that allows zero or more groups to be selected. Dialog D170 displays, for example, a list of group names extracted in step S120 of Fig. 9 and check boxes associated with the group names. The user selects zero or more group names by operating the check boxes.

[0096] In the present embodiment, the group name is stored as an attribute for a user stored in the address book data. However, the attribute may be a label, a tag, a category, or a favorite. For example, the address book data may store information such as an attribute value of "Yes" or "No" for an attribute name of "Favorite". In this case, the image processing device 20 allows the user to select whether to display only the address book data in which "Yes" is stored as the favorite attribute value or to display all the address book data on the destination selection screen, and displays the address book data based on the selected content. The control unit 200 also stores the selected content in the selection group information. In this way, when the address book data is transferred again from the terminal device 10, the control unit 200 can display either only the address book data in which "Yes" is stored as the favorite attribute value or all the address book data.

[0097] In this way, according to the image processing device of this embodiment, if the destination selected by the user for the second or subsequent time is a destination included in a group (group name) previously selected by the user, the group is preferentially displayed. Therefore, the user does not need to change the group to be displayed, and the number of operation steps is reduced. As a result, the image processing device of this embodiment allows the user to efficiently select a destination even if it is based on address book data transferred from a terminal device.

[0098] [2. Second embodiment] Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, an image processing device highlights (identifies) and displays destinations that have been selected by a user. In this embodiment, FIG. 10 of the first embodiment is replaced with FIG. 16. Note that the same processes are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0099] The flow of the destination selection process in this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 16. After displaying the address book data in step S166 or updating the address book data displayed in step S170, the control unit 200 acquires the selected destination history (step S260). For example, the control unit 200 searches the selected destination history storage area 270 for a selected destination history that stores the same information as the terminal device ID received in step S116. If the control unit 200 can search for the selected destination history, it acquires the searched selected destination history.

[0100] Next, the control unit 200 distinguishes and displays the address book data in which the same destination as the destination stored in the selected destination history acquired in step S260 is stored (step S262). For example, the control unit 200 distinguishes and displays the address book data in which the same information as the destination stored in the selected destination history acquired in step S260 is stored among the address book data displayed in step S166 or step S170, thereby enabling the control unit 200 to display the address book data in which the same information as the destination stored in the selected destination history is stored differently from other address book data.

[0101] The control unit 200 may identifiably display the address book data based on one or a predetermined number of selected destination histories among the selected destination histories acquired in step S260. In this way, by limiting the selected destination histories used in the identifiably display process, the control unit 200 can limit the address book data to be identifiably displayed.

[0102] The method of distinguishing the display may be, for example, displaying a background color different from the normal background color, decorating or blinking characters based on the address book data (e.g., a name), displaying a mark (icon) next to characters based on the address book data, etc. Note that a method other than the above-mentioned methods may be selected as the method of distinguishing the display.

[0103] Next, an example of operation in this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 17 and Fig. 18. Fig. 17(a) is an example showing a display screen W200 displayed on the display unit 240 when the transfer of address book data from the terminal device 10 to the image processing device 20 is completed. As shown in Fig. 17(a), the display screen W200 includes a list E200 for selecting the address book data received from the terminal device 10.

[0104] Here, if there is address book data corresponding to a destination previously selected by the user among the address book data displayed in list E200, that address book data is displayed in a distinctive manner. For example, as shown in area E202, the distinctive display may be performed by displaying the address book data in a background color different from other items or by displaying the name in bold.

[0105] The user can select address book data from the list E200. Fig. 17(b) is an example showing a display screen W210 displayed on the display unit 240 when address book data is selected by the user. As shown in item E212 of Fig. 17(b), the address book data selected by the user is displayed in an emphasized manner. Note that, as shown in Fig. 17(b), the address book data previously selected by the user and the address book data currently selected by the user may be displayed in different manners. This allows the user to distinguish between the address book data previously selected and the address book data currently selected.

[0106] The identification display may be performed in a manner other than that shown in Fig. 17. For example, as in a destination selection screen W220 shown in Fig. 18, a mark M220 may be displayed on the address book data previously selected by the user.

[0107] According to the image processing device of this embodiment, by displaying address book data based on selected destination information, it is possible to display destinations that the user has previously selected as destinations for sending image data in a way that makes it easier to select them than other destinations, thereby enabling the image processing device of this embodiment to display a highly convenient destination selection screen.

[0108] [3. Third embodiment] Next, a third embodiment will be described. In the third embodiment, an image processing device rearranges and displays destinations received from a terminal device. In this embodiment, Fig. 10 of the first embodiment is replaced with Fig. 19. Note that the same processes are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description will be omitted.

[0109] The flow of the destination selection process in this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 19. After displaying the address book data in step S166 or updating the displayed address book data in step S170, the control unit 200 acquires the selected destination history (step S360). The process in step S360 is the same as the process in step S260 in Fig. 16.

[0110] Next, the control unit 200 counts the number of times each destination has been selected by the user (step S362). Next, the control unit 200 rearranges the address book data displayed on the destination selection screen based on the results of the counting in step S362 (step S364). For example, the control unit 200 rearranges the address book data displayed in step S166 or step S170 so that address book data including destinations selected more frequently by users is displayed higher in the list. In this way, the control unit 200 can display address book data including destinations selected more frequently by users higher in the list, for a specified number of display columns.

[0111] Next, an example of operation in this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 20. Fig. 20 is an example showing a display screen W300 displayed on the display unit 240 when the transfer of address book data from the terminal device 10 to the image processing device 20 is completed. As shown in Fig. 20, the display screen W300 includes a list E300 for selecting the address book data received from the terminal device 10.

[0112] Here, the address book data displayed in the list E300 is displayed higher in accordance with the number of times the address information is selected by the user. In other words, the higher the address book data displayed in the list E300, the more frequently the address book data is selected by the user.

[0113] In this way, according to the image processing device of this embodiment, the address book data is rearranged based on the transmission history information, which allows the user to easily select frequently selected address book data without performing operations such as scrolling.

[0114] [4. Modifications] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible. In other words, the technical scope of the present invention also includes embodiments obtained by combining technical means that are appropriately modified within the scope of the gist of the present invention.

[0115] Although the above-mentioned embodiments are described separately for convenience of explanation, they may be combined within a technically feasible range. For example, the second embodiment and the third embodiment may be combined. In this case, the address book data displayed on the destination selection screen is displayed higher in the order of the number of times it has been selected, and the address book data that is frequently selected is displayed with distinction.

[0116] In addition, the programs that run on each device in the embodiments are programs that control the CPU and the like (programs that make a computer function) so as to realize the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments. Information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (e.g., RAM) during processing, and is then stored in various storage devices such as ROMs (Read Only Memories) and HDDs, and is read, modified, and written by the CPU as necessary.

[0117] Here, the recording medium for storing the program may be any of semiconductor media (e.g., ROM, non-volatile memory cards, etc.), optical recording media, magneto-optical recording media (e.g., DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), MO (Magneto Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), CD (Compact Disc), BD (Blu-ray Disc (registered trademark)), etc.), magnetic recording media (e.g., magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.), etc. Furthermore, not only are the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments realized by executing the loaded program, but the functions of the present invention may also be realized by processing in cooperation with an operating system or other application programs, etc., based on instructions from the program.

[0118] In addition, when distributing the program on the market, the program can be stored in 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 included in the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0119] 1 System 10 Terminal Equipment 100 Control section 140 Display section 150 Operation section 160 Storage section 162 Address book data storage area 180 Near Field Wireless Communication Department 190 Communications Department 20 Image processing device 200 Control section 202 Image processing section 220 Image input unit 230 Image forming section 240 Display section 250 Operation section 260 Storage section 262 Image data storage area 264 Address book data storage area 266 Receiving address book data storage area 268 Selection Group History Storage 270 Selected destination history storage area 280 Near Field Wireless Communication Department 290 Communications Department

Claims

1. a receiving unit that communicates with a terminal device and receives destination information including group information and identification information of the terminal device from the terminal device; a selection unit that selects, when a selection group history indicating that the group information associated with the identification information has been selected in the past is stored in a storage unit, information on one group from information on the group included in the destination information that matches the received identification information based on the selection group history; a screen display unit that controls displaying, on a display unit, destination information including information on one of the groups selected by the selection unit; An image processing device comprising:

2. A transmission unit that transmits image data to a destination based on destination information selected from the destination information displayed on the display unit; a deletion unit that deletes the destination information received from the terminal device after transmitting the image data; The image processing device according to claim 1 , further comprising:

3. 3. The image processing device according to claim 1, wherein the screen display unit displays a screen for selecting information of the group included in the destination information, and performs control to cause the information of the group selected by the selection unit to be in a selected state.

4. The storage unit further stores a selected destination history indicating the destination information selected in the past, 4. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the screen display unit displays the destination information based on the selected destination history.

5. The image processing apparatus according to claim 4 , wherein the screen display unit performs control to distinguish and display the previously selected destination information from among the destination information, based on the selected destination history.

6. 5 . The image processing apparatus according to claim 4 , wherein the screen display unit performs control to rearrange and display the destination information according to the number of times the destination information has been selected in the past, based on the selected destination history.

7. a receiving step of communicating with a terminal device and receiving destination information including group information and identification information of the terminal device from the terminal device; a selection step of selecting, in a case where a selection group history indicating that the group information associated with the identification information has been selected in the past is stored in a storage unit, information on one group from information on the group included in the destination information that matches the received identification information based on the selection group history; a display step of displaying, on a display unit, destination information including information on one of the groups selected in the selection step; A control method comprising:

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