Image processing device and computer program for the image processing device

Abstract

To provide a technique for suppressing an unnecessarily increasing data size of setting data in the memory, in an image processing device having the memory for storing the setting data related to image processing.SOLUTION: An image processing device transmits at least one piece of setting data stored in the memory to a first terminal device when an acquisition request is received from the first terminal device, receives an execution request of image processing indicated by specific setting data from the first terminal device when the specific setting data is selected from the at least piece of one setting data in the first terminal device, and causes an image processing execution unit to execute image processing according to the execution request. The image processing device includes a determination unit for determining whether there is target setting data whose unused period exceeds a predetermined period among a plurality of pieces of setting data stored in the memory, and a deletion unit for deleting the target setting data from the memory when it is determined that there is target setting data.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This specification discloses a technique for registering setting data in an image processing device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an image forming system including a host terminal and a printer. When the printer receives a print preset registration request conforming to IPP (abbreviation of Internet Printing Protocol) from the host terminal, the printer stores the print preset in the printer's memory. Then, when the printer receives an acquisition request from the host terminal, it transmits the print preset to the host terminal. The host terminal reflects the print settings corresponding to the print preset on a print setting screen. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2019-119089 A [Non-patent literature]

[0004] [Non-Patent Document 1] Internet Printing Protocol / 1.1: Model and Semantics, January 2017, Internet "https: / / tools.ietf.org / html / rfc8011" Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] A printer has a finite memory capacity. This specification provides a technique for preventing an unnecessary increase in the data size of setting data in an image processing device that includes a memory for storing setting data related to image processing. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The image processing device disclosed in this specification includes an image processing execution unit for executing image processing, a memory capable of storing multiple setting data related to the image processing, a setting data transmission unit for transmitting at least one of the multiple setting data stored in the memory to the first terminal device when an acquisition request is received from a first terminal device, an execution request receiving unit for receiving from the first terminal device a request to execute the image processing including one or more setting values ​​indicated by the specific setting data when a specific setting data is selected in the first terminal device from the at least one setting data after the at least one setting data is transmitted to the first terminal device, an image processing control unit for causing the image processing execution unit to execute the image processing in accordance with the one or more setting values ​​included in the execution request when the execution request is executed from the first terminal device, a judgment unit for judging whether or not a target setting data exists among the multiple setting data stored in the memory, the target setting data being setting data whose period of non-use exceeds a predetermined period, and a deletion unit for deleting the target setting data from the memory when it is judged that the target setting data exists.

[0007] According to the above configuration, the image processing device determines whether or not there is target setting data that has not been used for a predetermined period of time, and if it is determined that the target setting data exists, deletes the target setting data from the memory. This makes it possible to prevent the data size of the setting data in the memory from increasing unnecessarily.

[0008] A control method for implementing the above-described image processing device, a computer program, and a computer-readable recording medium storing the computer program are also novel and useful. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 shows the configuration of a communication system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 13 shows a sequence diagram of a process for saving preset data. [Diagram 3] FIG. 11 shows a sequence diagram of a process for executing printing using preset data. [Figure 4] 13 shows a flowchart of a usage determination process. [Diagram 5] 1 shows a flowchart of an automatic deletion main process. [Figure 6] 13 shows a flowchart of an automatic deletion sub-process. [Figure 7] A specific case A1 is shown. [Figure 8] A specific case A2 is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] (First embodiment) (Configuration of communication system 2; Figure 1) 1, the communication system 2 includes a printer 10 and a terminal 100. The printer 10 and the terminal 100 belong to the same LAN (abbreviation of Local Area Network) 4, and can communicate with each other via the LAN 4. The LAN 4 may be a wired LAN or a wireless LAN.

[0011] (Configuration of terminal 100) The terminal 100 is a stationary terminal device such as a PC. In a modified example, the terminal 100 may be a portable terminal device such as a smartphone, a tablet PC, or a notebook PC. The terminal 100 stores a user name UN1 for identifying a user who uses the printer 10.

[0012] The terminal 100 includes an IPP (abbreviation of Internet Printing Protocol) program (not shown) installed from a server on the Internet. The IPP program is a program for generating an IPP command conforming to HTTP (abbreviation of Hyper Text Transfer Protocol) and transmitting the command to the printer 10. In this embodiment, the server is provided by a business entity different from the vendor of the printer 10. However, in a modified example, the server may be provided by the vendor of the printer 10. The terminal 100 may already support IPP without installing an IPP program from the server.

[0013] (Printer 10 Configuration) The printer 10 is a peripheral device (i.e., a peripheral device of the terminal 100) capable of executing a printing process. The printer 10 can also execute a web server function. The web server function is a function of transmitting web page data corresponding to a web page to an external device (e.g., the terminal 100) in response to the external device accessing a web server in the printer 10. The web page is, for example, a page for managing the settings of the printer 10 (e.g., settings of firmware, Internet connection, etc.). Note that the printer 10 may be a multi-function device capable of executing a scanning process, a FAX process, etc. in addition to the printing process and web server function. The printer 10 includes an operation unit 12, a display unit 14, a print execution unit 16, a LAN interface (hereinafter, the interface will be referred to as "I / F") 20, and a control unit 30.

[0014] The operation unit 12 has a plurality of keys. A user can input various instructions to the printer 10 by operating the operation unit 12. The display unit 14 is a display for displaying various information. The display unit 14 also functions as a so-called touch panel (i.e., an operation unit). The print execution unit 16 is a printing mechanism such as an inkjet type or a laser type. The LAN I / F 20 is connected to the LAN 4.

[0015] The control unit 30 includes a CPU 32 and a memory 34. The CPU 32 executes various processes in accordance with a program 40 stored in the memory 34. The memory 34 is composed of a volatile memory, a non-volatile memory, etc. The memory 34 stores a user table 42, a preset table 44, and a deletion flag 46.

[0016] The user table 42 stores the user name, password, access date and time, and Get date and time in association with each other for one or more users who use the printer 10. The user name and password are registered by an administrator of the printer 10. The access date and time indicates the most recent date and time when a specific HTTP command, described below, was received. The Get date and time indicates the most recent date and time when a Get-Printer-Attributes command (hereinafter referred to as "GPA"), which is one of the IPP commands, was received.

[0017] Here, the "specific HTTP command" is an HTTP command that includes a user name and a password. In other words, the "specific HTTP command" is an HTTP command that includes an instruction to execute authentication using a user name and a password. For example, when accessing a web server in the printer 10, authentication using a user name and a password is executed. Also, when acquiring preset data in the preset table 44, authentication using a user name and a password is executed. For example, a management screen request (see FIG. 8) for accessing a web server in the printer 10 and GPA, which is one of the IPP commands, are examples of the "specific HTTP command."

[0018] For example, when a GPA is received, the printer 10 stores the date and time when the GPA was received as the access date and time and the Get date and time in the user table 42. On the other hand, when a management screen request is received, the printer 10 stores the date and time when the management screen request was received as the access date and time in the user table 42, but does not store the date and time in the user table 42 as the Get date and time.

[0019] The preset table 44 stores preset data in association with a user name. The preset data includes a preset name for identifying the preset data and setting data for the preset data. The setting data includes a plurality of setting values ​​corresponding to a plurality of setting items (e.g., number of colors, number of copies, image quality, size, etc.) for executing a print process.

[0020] The preset table 44 also stores an execution date and time and a storage date and time in association with the preset data. The execution date and time indicates the date and time when printing using the preset data is estimated to have been performed. The storage date and time indicates the date and time when the preset data was stored in the preset table 44.

[0021] The deletion flag 46 indicates either "ON" indicating that execution of the automatic deletion main process (see FIG. 5) described later is permitted, or "OFF" indicating that execution of the automatic deletion main process is not permitted. The default value of the deletion flag 46 is "OFF." The deletion flag 46 is set by the user.

[0022] (Saving new preset data; Fig. 2) The process of saving new preset data PD2 will be described with reference to FIG. 2. In the initial state of FIG. 2, preset data PD1 (i.e., preset name "Preset1", setting data D1) is saved in the preset table 44 in association with the user name UN1. In the following, unless otherwise specified, the process executed by the CPU 32 of the printer 10 will be described mainly with the printer 10, not the CPU 32, from the viewpoint of ease of understanding. In the following, the printer 10 and the terminal 100 communicate with each other via the LAN 4 and the LAN I / F 20. In the following, unless otherwise specified, the descriptions "via the LAN 4" and "via the LAN I / F 20" will be omitted.

[0023] When the terminal 100 accepts an operation to display a print setting screen for inputting setting values ​​for print processing in T10, the terminal 100 transmits a GPA (i.e., a Get-Printer-Attributes command) conforming to IPP to the printer 10 in T20. The GPA includes a capability acquisition request for acquiring capability information indicating all print conditions that the printer 10 can execute (e.g., "monochrome", "color", "single-sided", "long-edge binding on both sides", "short-edge binding on both sides", etc.), and a data acquisition request for acquiring preset data. The GPA also includes a user name UN1 and a password PW1. Note that the GPA may include a capability acquisition request and not include a data acquisition request. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the GPA is assumed to include a capability acquisition request and a data acquisition request.

[0024] When the printer 10 receives the GPA from the terminal 100 in T20, the printer 10 authenticates the user name UN1 and password PW1 in the GPA in T22. In the case of Fig. 2, the authentication of the user name UN1 and password PW1 is successful. If the GPA does not include at least one of the user name and password, the printer 10 sends a screen request to the terminal 100 to cause the terminal 100 to display an input screen for inputting the user name and password.

[0025] When the authentication of the user name UN1 and the password PW1 is successful in T22, the printer 10 identifies the preset data PD1 associated with the user name UN1 from the preset table 44. Then, in T24, the printer 10 transmits a capability response, which is a response to the GPA, to the terminal 100. The capability response includes capability information and the identified preset data PD1.

[0026] Furthermore, in T26, the printer 10 saves the current date and time (i.e., the date and time when the GPA of T20 was received) as the access date and time AD1 in the user table 42, and in T28, saves the current date and time as the Get date and time in the user table 42. Note that the process of T26 may be executed after the process of T28. In another example, the processes of T26 and T28 may be executed before the process of T24.

[0027] When the terminal 100 receives the capability response from the printer 10 in T24, it displays a print setting screen (not shown) and a preset screen in T30. The print setting screen includes an input field for inputting setting values ​​that match the capability information included in the capability response. The preset screen also includes a list of registered preset data and a "New" button for registering new preset data. At the moment, the list includes the preset name "Preset1" associated with the user name UN1.

[0028] In T32, the terminal 100 accepts the selection of the "New" button from the user. In T34, the terminal 100 displays a registration screen for registering new preset data. The registration screen includes a preset name input field for inputting a preset name, a plurality of setting input fields for inputting setting values ​​conforming to the capability information included in the capability response, and an "OK" button. For example, the plurality of setting value input fields include a field for inputting the number of colors, a field for inputting the number of copies, a field for inputting the image quality, and a field for inputting the print side. Note that, in the registration screen, it is sufficient to input a value in at least one field of the plurality of setting value input fields. In this case, the user inputs the preset name "Preset2", the number of colors "monochrome", the number of copies "1", the image quality "High", and the print side "single-sided" in the registration screen. Then, the user selects the "OK" button in T36.

[0029] In T38, the terminal 100 generates setting data D2 including the input setting values ​​(that is, number of colors "monochrome", number of copies "1", image quality "High", and print side "single-sided").

[0030] In T40, the terminal 100 sends a Set-Printer-Attributes command (hereinafter, referred to as "SPA") conforming to IPP to the printer 10. The SPA is a command that requests the printer 10 to register preset data. The SPA includes a user name UN1 and preset data PD2. The preset data PD2 includes the preset name "Preset2" and setting data D2 that were input on the registration screen.

[0031] When the printer 10 receives the SPA from the terminal 100 in T40, in T42, the printer 10 associates the preset data PD2 in the SPA with the user name UN1 in the SPA and stores the preset data PD2 in the preset table 44. Furthermore, the printer 10 stores the current date and time in the user table 42 as the storage date and time SD2, which is the date and time when the preset data PD2 was stored.

[0032] At T44, the printer 10 transmits to the terminal 100 a storage completion notification indicating that the preset data PD2 identified by the preset name “Preset2” has been stored in the printer 10.

[0033] (Print; Figure 3) Printing using preset data will be described with reference to Fig. 3. This case is a continuation of Fig. 2. In the initial state of this case, two pieces of preset data PD1 and PD2 are stored in the preset table 44.

[0034] T100 to T130 are the same as T10 to T30 in FIG. 2. In this case, the list in the preset screen includes preset names "Preset1" and "Preset2" corresponding to the preset data PD1 and PD2. The user selects the preset name "Preset2" from the list in the preset screen. In this case, the terminal 100 displays a print screen including a "Print" button that accepts an instruction to execute printing. The print screen further includes the number of colors "monochrome", the number of copies "1", the image quality "High", and the print side "single-sided" indicated by the preset data PD2 of the preset name "Preset2". This allows the user to check the setting values ​​saved under the preset name "Preset2". Although details are omitted, the setting values ​​in the print screen can be changed. In addition, on the print screen, it is possible to additionally set setting values ​​corresponding to setting items (e.g. size) different from the setting items indicated by the preset data PD2.

[0035] In T140, the terminal 100 accepts the selection of the "Print" button on the print screen. In T150, the terminal 100 transmits a print execution request to the printer 10 to request printing of the image to be printed. The print execution request includes the user name UN1, four setting values ​​indicated by the preset data PD2 (i.e., the number of colors "monochrome", the number of copies "1", the image quality "High", and the print side "single-sided"), one or more other setting values, and image data corresponding to the image to be printed. The one or more other setting values ​​are setting values ​​(e.g., size "A4", etc.) different from the four setting values ​​indicated by the preset data PD2. Each of the one or more other setting values ​​is, for example, a setting value additionally set by the user and a default value of the printer 10. The default value is, for example, included in the capability response of T124. In a modified example, the print execution request does not need to include one or more other setting values.

[0036] In addition, the print execution request does not include the preset name "Preset2." Therefore, the printer 10 cannot know that the preset name "Preset2" has been selected on the preset screen, that is, that the preset data PD2 has been used.

[0037] When the printer 10 receives a print execution request from the terminal 100 in T150, the printer 10 executes a usage determination process (see FIG. 4) described later in T152. The usage determination process is a process for determining whether printing using preset data selected by the user has been executed. In this case, the printer 10 determines in the usage determination process that printing using the preset data PD2 will be executed, and saves the current date and time in the preset table 44 as the execution date and time ED2 of the preset data PD2.

[0038] In T154, the printer 10 causes the print execution unit 16 to execute printing processing of an image corresponding to the image data included in the print execution request, in accordance with a plurality of setting values ​​included in the print execution request.

[0039] (Usage decision process; Figure 4) The usage determination process executed by the CPU 32 of the printer 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. The process of Fig. 4 is started when a print execution request is received.

[0040] In S5, the CPU 32 identifies N1 pieces of setting data stored in association with the user name included in the print execution request from the preset table 44 (N1 is an integer equal to or greater than 1). Then, the CPU 32 identifies N2 pieces of target setting data (N2 is an integer equal to or greater than 1 and equal to or less than N1) that are target setting data to be determined in S10, which will be described later, from among the identified N1 pieces of setting data. Here, all setting items indicated by the target setting data are included in the multiple setting items indicated by the print execution request. In other words, all setting items indicated by the target setting data match some of the multiple setting items indicated by the print execution request. That is, the CPU 32 determines whether or not all setting items indicated by the setting data match some of the multiple setting items indicated by the print execution request, for each of the identified N1 pieces of setting data. Then, the CPU 32 identifies the setting data determined to match as the target setting data. On the other hand, the CPU 32 does not identify the setting data determined not to match as the target setting data.

[0041] In S10, the CPU 32 selects one target setting data from among the specified N2 pieces of target setting data. Then, the CPU 32 judges whether all the setting values ​​included in the one selected target setting data match a part of the multiple setting values ​​included in the print execution request. If all the setting values ​​included in the target setting data match a part of the multiple setting values ​​included in the print execution request, it means that the print execution request is highly likely to be a request transmitted due to the setting data (i.e., preset data) being selected by the user. For example, in the case of FIG. 3, four setting values ​​(i.e., number of colors "monochrome", number of copies "1", image quality "High", and print side "single-sided") included in the setting data D2 match four setting values ​​(i.e., number of colors "monochrome", number of copies "1", image quality "High", and print side "single-sided") among the multiple setting values ​​included in the print execution request of T150. Therefore, the CPU 32 judges YES in S10 and proceeds to S12. On the other hand, if all the setting values ​​included in the selected one target setting data do not match some of the multiple setting values ​​included in the print execution request, the CPU 32 selects another target setting data from the N2 pieces of target setting data. That is, the CPU 32 executes the above-mentioned judgment for each of the N2 pieces of target setting data. Then, if the CPU 32 judges that all the setting values ​​included in the target setting data do not match some of the multiple setting values ​​included in the print execution request for all of the N2 pieces of target setting data (NO in S10), it skips S12 and ends the processing of FIG. 4.

[0042] In a modified example, there may be setting data A that indicates only the same setting items as all the setting items indicated by the print execution request. In other words, there may be cases where all the setting items indicated by the print execution request match all the setting items indicated by the setting data A. In this case, the setting data A is identified as the above-mentioned target setting data.

[0043] In another modified example, there may be setting data B indicating more setting items than all setting items indicated by the print execution request. In this case, setting data B is not identified as the target setting data. In a further modified example, setting data B may be identified as the target setting data when some of all setting items indicated by setting data B match all setting items indicated by the print execution request.

[0044] In S12, the CPU 32 associates the current date and time (i.e., the date and time when the print execution request is received) with the target setting data determined to match in S10, and stores the date and time as the execution date and time in the preset table 44. When S12 ends, the process in FIG. 4 ends.

[0045] (Automatic deletion main process; Figure 5) The automatic deletion main process executed by the CPU 32 of the printer 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. The automatic deletion main process is a process for automatically deleting unused preset data from the memory 34. The process of Fig. 5 is started with the arrival of a regular time (for example, 17:00 every Friday) as a trigger.

[0046] In S20, the CPU 32 determines whether the deletion flag 46 in the memory 34 indicates "ON". If the CPU 32 determines that the deletion flag 46 indicates "ON" (YES in S20), the process proceeds to S22. On the other hand, if the CPU 32 determines that the deletion flag 46 indicates "OFF" (NO in S20), the process skips S22 and thereafter, and ends the process of FIG. 5. With this configuration, the user can select whether or not to automatically delete unused preset data by setting the deletion flag 46. This improves user convenience.

[0047] In S22, the CPU 32 selects from the preset table 44 target preset data that is the target of the processing from S30 onwards.

[0048] In S30, the CPU 32 judges whether the difference period between the storage date and time of the target preset data and the current date and time exceeds a predetermined period (for example, December). The difference period can be said to be the period that has elapsed since the target preset data was stored. When the CPU 32 judges that the difference period between the storage date and time and the current date and time does not exceed the predetermined period (NO in S30), it skips the processing from S40 onwards and ends the processing in FIG. 5. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent preset data that has been stored for only a relatively short period of time from being automatically deleted.

[0049] Furthermore, when the CPU 32 determines that the difference period between the saved date and time and the current date and time exceeds a predetermined period (YES in S30), the process proceeds to S40. In S40, the CPU 32 determines whether or not there is an execution date and time stored in association with the target preset data. When the CPU 32 determines that there is no execution date and time stored in association with the target preset data (NO in S40), the CPU 32 determines that printing using the target preset data has never been performed, and the process proceeds to S50.

[0050] In S50, the CPU 32 deletes the target preset data from the preset table 44.

[0051] In the next S54, the CPU 32 judges whether or not there is any unselected preset data in the preset table 44. When the CPU 32 judges that there is any unselected preset data in the preset table 44 (YES in S54), the CPU 32 returns to S22. On the other hand, when the CPU 32 judges that all the preset data in the preset table 44 have been selected (NO in S54), the CPU 32 ends the processing of FIG.

[0052] Furthermore, when the CPU 32 determines that there is an execution date and time stored in association with the target preset data (YES in S40), the process proceeds to S42. In S42, the CPU 32 determines whether the difference period between the execution date and time stored in association with the target preset data and the current date and time exceeds a predetermined period (e.g., February). When the CPU 32 determines that the difference period between the execution date and time and the current date and time exceeds the predetermined period (YES in S42), the CPU 32 determines that although printing using the target preset data has been performed in the past, the period during which the target preset data was not used has exceeded the predetermined period, and the process proceeds to S50.

[0053] Furthermore, when the CPU 32 determines that the difference period between the execution date and time and the current date and time does not exceed the predetermined period (NO in S42), the CPU 32 executes an automatic deletion sub-process (see FIG. 6) described later in S52. After completing S52, the CPU 32 proceeds to S54.

[0054] (Automatic deletion sub-process; Figure 6) The automatic deletion sub-processing will be described with reference to Fig. 6. In S60, the CPU 32 identifies a user name (hereinafter, referred to as a "target user name") stored in association with the target preset data.

[0055] In S62, the CPU 32 judges whether or not there is an access date and time stored in association with the target user name. When the CPU 32 judges that there is no access date and time stored in association with the target user name (NO in S62), it judges that a specific HTTP command including the target user name has never been received since the target preset data was saved (i.e., authentication of the target user name has never been performed), and proceeds to S80. S80 is the same as S50 in Fig. 5. When S80 ends, the processing in Fig. 6 ends.

[0056] Furthermore, when the CPU 32 determines that there is an access date and time stored in association with the target user name (YES in S62), the process proceeds to S64. In S64, the CPU 32 determines whether or not the difference in time between the access date and time stored in association with the target user name and the current date and time exceeds a predetermined period (e.g., June). When the CPU 32 determines that the difference in time between the access date and time and the current date and time exceeds the predetermined period (YES in S64), the CPU 32 determines that authentication of the target user name has not been performed even once for a long period of time after a specific HTTP command including the target user name was received, and proceeds to S80. Such a situation is, for example, a situation in which the target user name has been deleted from the user table 42.

[0057] Furthermore, when the CPU 32 determines that the difference period between the access date and time and the current date and time does not exceed a predetermined period (NO in S64), the process proceeds to S66. In S66, the CPU 32 determines whether or not there is a Get date and time stored in association with the target user name. When the CPU 32 determines that there is no Get date and time stored in association with the target user name (NO in S64), the CPU 32 determines that a GPA including the target user name has never been received since the target preset data was saved (i.e., the target preset data has never been acquired by the terminal 100), and proceeds to S80.

[0058] Furthermore, when the CPU 32 determines that there is a Get date and time stored in association with the target user name (YES in S66), the process proceeds to S68. In S68, the CPU 32 determines whether the difference period between the Get date and time stored in association with the target user name and the current date and time exceeds a predetermined period (e.g., 2 months). Here, the predetermined period in S68 is shorter than the predetermined period in S64. When the CPU 32 determines that the difference period between the Get date and time and the current date and time exceeds the predetermined period (YES in S68), the CPU 32 determines that the target preset data has not been acquired even once for a long period of time after the target preset data was acquired by the terminal 100, and proceeds to S80.

[0059] Moreover, when the CPU 32 determines that the difference period between the Get date and time and the current date and time does not exceed the predetermined period (NO in S68), it ends the processing in FIG.

[0060] (Specific case A1; Figure 7) A specific case A1 realized by the processes in Fig. 4 to Fig. 6 will be described with reference to Fig. 7. This case is a continuation of Fig. 3.

[0061] T200 to T252 are the same as T100 to T152 in FIG. 3. In T300, the user operates the operation unit 12 of the printer 10 to set the deletion flag 46 to "ON". In this case, a period of "2 months" has passed since the execution date and time ED2 was saved in T252, without printing being performed using the preset data PD2. Furthermore, in this case, a period of "12 months" has passed since the preset data PD2 was saved (i.e., the date and time indicated by the saved date and time SD2). Then, the arrival of the regular time is used as a trigger to execute the automatic deletion main process.

[0062] In T302, the printer 10 selects the preset data PD2 as the target preset data (S22 in FIG. 5). In T304, the printer 10 determines that the difference between the storage date and time SD2 exceeds the predetermined period "December" (YES in S30). In T306, the printer 10 determines that the difference between the execution date and time ED2 exceeds the predetermined period "February" (YES in S42). In T320, the printer 10 deletes the preset data PD2 (S50).

[0063] According to this configuration, the printer 10 estimates that printing using the preset data PD2 has not been performed for a predetermined period of time (2 months) since the last printing using the preset data PD2, and deletes the preset data PD2 that has not been used for a predetermined period of time from the memory 34. The capacity of the memory 34 of the printer 10 is finite. According to the above configuration, it is possible to prevent the data size of the preset data (i.e., setting data) in the memory 34 from increasing unnecessarily.

[0064] (Specific case A2; Figure 8) A specific case A2 realized by the processes in Fig. 4 to Fig. 6 will be described with reference to Fig. 8. This case is a continuation of Fig. 3.

[0065] T400 to T428 are the same as T100 to T128 in Fig. 3. Next, at T500, the terminal 100 transmits a top screen request to the printer 10. The top screen request is an HTTP command for requesting top screen data. The top screen data is web page data corresponding to the top screen for accessing the web server in the printer 10. The top screen request includes the IP address of the printer 10.

[0066] When the printer 10 receives a top screen request from the terminal 100 in T500, the printer 10 transmits top screen data to the terminal 100 in T502.

[0067] When the terminal 100 receives the top screen data from the printer 10 in T502, it displays the top screen. The top screen includes input fields for inputting a user name and a password. The terminal 100 accepts input of the user name UN1 and the password PW1 in T504. Then, the terminal 100 transmits an administration screen request including the user name UN1 and the password PW1 to the printer 10 in T506. The administration screen request is an HTTP command for requesting administration screen data. The administration screen data is web page data corresponding to an administration screen for managing the settings of the printer 10. In other words, the administration screen request is a specific HTTP command.

[0068] When the printer 10 receives the management screen data from the terminal 100 in T506, the printer 10 executes authentication of the user name UN1 and the password PW1 in the management screen data in T522. In case A2 in Fig. 8, authentication of the user name UN1 and the password PW1 is successful. Then, the printer 10 transmits the management screen data to the terminal 100 in T524.

[0069] Furthermore, in T526, the printer 10 stores the current date and time (i.e., the date and time when the management screen request of T506 was received) as the access date and time AD1 in the user table 42. That is, the access date and time AD1 is updated from the date and time in T426 to the date and time in T526. Here, the printer 10 does not store the current date and time as the Get date and time in the user table 42. That is, the Get date and time GD1 is maintained as the date and time in T428.

[0070] The next T600 is the same as T300 in Fig. 7. In this case, a period of "two months" has passed since the Get date and time GD1 was saved in T428, without a GPA being received. Furthermore, in this case, a period of "one month" has passed since the access date and time AD1 was saved in T526 (i.e., the date and time indicated by the access date and time AD1). Then, the arrival of the regular time is used as a trigger to execute the automatic deletion main process.

[0071] In T602, the printer 10 selects the preset data PD2 as the target preset data (S22 in FIG. 5). In T604, the printer 10 determines that the difference period from the storage date and time SD2 exceeds the predetermined period "December" (YES in S30). For example, a situation is assumed in which the terminal 100 receives capability information from the printer 10 by transmitting a GPA including a capability acquisition request but not including a data acquisition request between the timing of T428 and the present time, displays a print setting screen, and transmits a print execution request including a setting value input on the print setting screen. In this situation, although a data acquisition request is not received, it may be erroneously assumed that printing using the preset data PD2 has been executed in the usage determination process in FIG. 4, and the execution date and time ED2 may be updated between the timing of T428 and the present time. In such a situation, in T606, the printer 10 determines that the difference period from the execution date and time ED2 does not exceed the predetermined period "February" (NO in S42).

[0072] In T608, the printer 10 determines that the difference period from the access date and time AD2, "January", does not exceed the predetermined period "June" (NO in S64). In T610, the printer 10 determines that the difference period from the Get date and time GD1 exceeds the predetermined period "February" (YES in S68). In T620, the printer 10 deletes the preset data PD2 (S80). .

[0073] According to this configuration, the printer 10 determines that the target preset data has not been acquired again during the predetermined period of time "two months" since the target preset data was last acquired by the terminal 100, and deletes the preset data PD2 that has not been used for a period exceeding the predetermined period from the memory 34. This makes it possible to prevent the data size of the preset data (i.e., the setting data) in the memory 34 from increasing unnecessarily.

[0074] Furthermore, with this configuration, the printer 10 can determine that although authentication of the user name UN1 and password PW1 has been recently performed, there is a high possibility that the situation in which the preset data PD2 has not been acquired by the terminal 100 continues, and can delete from the memory 34 the preset data PD2 that has not been used for a period exceeding a predetermined period.

[0075] Furthermore, with this configuration, even if it is erroneously assumed that printing has been performed using the preset data PD2, the printer 10 can determine that there is a high possibility that the situation in which the preset data PD2 has not been acquired by the terminal 100 continues, and can delete from the memory 34 the preset data PD2 that has not been used for a period exceeding a predetermined period.

[0076] (Correspondence) The printer 10, the print execution unit 16, and the memory 34 are examples of an "image processing device," an "image processing execution unit," and a "memory," respectively. The terminal 100 is an example of a "first terminal device (and a second terminal device)." The deletion flag 46 is an example of a "deletion flag." A specific HTTP command and a GPA including a data acquisition request are examples of a "specific request" and an "acquisition request," respectively. The setting data D2 corresponding to the preset name "Preset2" in T130 of FIG. 3 is an example of a "specific setting data." The four setting values ​​(i.e., the number of colors "monochrome," the number of copies "1," the image quality "High," and the print side "single-sided") indicated by the preset data PD2 in T150 of FIG. 3 are examples of "related information." The Get date and time is an example of "received information (and first type of received date and time information)." The access date and time is an example of "second type of received date and time information." The predetermined period of S68 and the predetermined period of S64 in FIG. 6 are examples of a "first type of predetermined period" and a "second type of predetermined period," respectively. The execution date and time is an example of "selection information (and execution date and time information)". The specified period of S42 in FIG. 5 is an example of a "third type of specified period". The specified period of S30 is an example of a "specific period". The user name UN1 and password PW1 are examples of "first user information".

[0077] T124, T150, and T154 in Fig. 3 are examples of processing realized by a "setting data transmission unit," an "execution request reception unit," and an "image processing control unit," respectively. The automatic deletion main processing in Fig. 5 is an example of processing realized by a "determination unit." S50 in Fig. 5 and S80 in Fig. 6 are examples of processing realized by a deletion unit.

[0078] (Second Example) This embodiment is similar to the first embodiment, except that the contents of the usage determination process are different.

[0079] (Usage decision process; Figure 4) The usage determination process of this embodiment is similar to that of the first embodiment, except for the difference in the content of the determination in S10.

[0080] In S10, the CPU 32 selects one target setting data from among the N2 target setting data identified in S5. Then, the CPU 32 judges whether or not one or more setting values, excluding the specific setting value, among all setting values ​​included in the one selected target setting data, match one or more setting values, excluding the specific setting value, among all or a part of the multiple setting values ​​included in the print execution request. Then, the CPU 32 executes the above judgment for each of the N2 target setting data, as in the first embodiment. Here, the "specific setting value" is, for example, a setting value corresponding to the setting item "number of copies." For example, in the case of FIG. 3, a situation is assumed in which the number of copies "1" in the print screen (see T130 in FIG. 3) is changed to the number of copies "2." In this situation, three setting values ​​(i.e., number of colors "monochrome", image quality "High", and print side "single-sided") included in the setting data D2 except for the number of copies "1" match three setting values ​​(i.e., number of colors "monochrome", image quality "High", and print side "single-sided") included in the print execution request of T150 except for the number of copies "2". Therefore, the CPU 32 determines YES in S10 and proceeds to S12.

[0081] The setting value corresponding to the setting item "number of copies" is a setting value that is likely to be changed by the user. Even if the setting value that is likely to be changed by the user does not match, if setting values ​​other than the setting value match, it is likely that the received print execution request is a request that was sent as a result of the preset data being selected by the user. This makes it possible to prevent a mistaken determination that printing using the preset data selected by the user has not been performed due to a mismatch in the setting value that is likely to be changed by the user.

[0082] (Correspondence) A setting value corresponding to the setting item "number of copies" is an example of a "specific setting value." In a modified example, the "specific setting value" may be a setting value corresponding to another setting item (e.g., number of colors, image quality, print surface, size, etc.).

[0083] (Third Example) This embodiment is similar to the first embodiment, except that the contents of the usage determination process are different.

[0084] (Usage decision process; Figure 4) The usage determination process of this embodiment is similar to that of the first embodiment, except that the process of S5 is not executed and the contents of the determination of S10 are different.

[0085] In this embodiment, the print execution request includes the preset name (e.g., "Preset2") selected on the preset screen (see T130 in FIG. 3). In this embodiment, the print request does not need to include setting values. Specifically, the print execution request may or may not include one or more setting values ​​corresponding to the selected preset name (e.g., "Preset2") (i.e., the four setting values ​​corresponding to the preset name "Presets2", namely, the number of colors "monochrome", the number of copies "1", the image quality "High", and the print side "single-sided"). In addition, the print execution request may or may not include other setting values ​​than the one or more setting values ​​corresponding to the selected preset name (i.e., a setting value different from the four setting values ​​corresponding to the preset name "Presets2" (e.g., size "A4")).

[0086] In S10, the CPU 32 determines whether or not there is preset data stored in association with both the user name and preset name included in the print execution request. If the CPU 32 determines that there is preset data stored in association with both the user name and preset name included in the print execution request (YES in S10), the process proceeds to S12. On the other hand, if the CPU 32 determines that there is no preset data stored in association with both the user name and preset name included in the print execution request (NO in S10), the process skips S12 and ends the process of FIG.

[0087] The inclusion of a preset name in a print execution request means that the preset data identified by the preset name has been selected by the user. In the configuration of this embodiment, as in the first embodiment, it is possible to determine whether printing has been performed using the preset data selected by the user. The preset name is an example of "identification information." In addition, the preset name is an example of "related information."

[0088] Although specific examples of the present invention have been described above in detail, these are merely examples and do not limit the scope of the claims. The technology described in the claims includes various modifications and alterations of the specific examples exemplified above. Modifications of the above-mentioned embodiments are listed below.

[0089] (Variation 1) "Image processing" is not limited to printing processing, but may be, for example, scanning processing. "Image processing execution unit" is not limited to printing execution unit 16, but may be, for example, a scanning mechanism such as CCD or CIS. In this case, "setting data" includes multiple setting values ​​corresponding to multiple setting items (for example, image quality, data format, size, etc.) for executing scanning processing.

[0090] (Modification 2) The determination in S20 in Fig. 5 does not have to be performed. In this modification, the "deletion flag" can be omitted.

[0091] (Modification 3) In each of the above embodiments, the printer 10 stores the access date and time and the Get date and time (T26, T28, etc. in FIG. 2). Instead of this, when the printer 10 receives the GPA, the printer 10 may store in the memory 34 a first reception flag indicating that the GPA has been received, in association with the user name UN1, and store in the memory 34 a second reception flag indicating that a specific HTTP command has been received. Furthermore, when the printer 10 receives a management screen request, the printer 10 may not store the first reception flag, but may store in the memory 34 a second reception flag. Then, the first reception flag may be automatically deleted when a predetermined period (for example, February) has passed, and the second reception flag may be automatically deleted when a predetermined period (for example, June) has passed. In this case, the printer 10 may determine NO in S64 in FIG. 6 when the second reception flag is stored in the memory 34, and may determine YES when the second reception flag is not stored in the memory 34. 6, the printer 10 may determine NO if the first reception flag is stored in the memory 34, and may determine YES if the first reception flag is not stored in the memory 34. According to this modification, the first reception flag and the second reception flag are examples of "reception information."

[0092] (Variation 4) The GPA (see T420 in FIG. 8) and the management screen request (see T506) may include the user name UN1 but not the password PW1. That is, authentication using the password PW1 may not be performed in the printer 10. According to this variation, the user name UN1 is an example of "first user information."

[0093] (Modification 5) The access date and time and the Get date and time do not have to be saved. Also, S52 in Fig. 5 (i.e., the automatic deletion sub-process) does not have to be executed. In this modification, the "first save control unit" can be omitted.

[0094] (Variation 6) In each of the above embodiments, the access date and time and the Get date and time are stored. Instead of this, only the Get date and time may be stored. Then, the judgment of S68 in FIG. 6 may be executed, and the judgment of S64 may not be executed. According to this variation, the "second type of reception date and time information" can be omitted.

[0095] (Variation 7) In each of the above embodiments, the access date and time and the Get date and time are stored. Alternatively, only the access date and time may be stored. Then, the judgment of S64 in FIG. 6 may be executed, and the judgment of S68 may not be executed. According to this variation, the access date and time is an example of "received information (and first type of received date and time information)."

[0096] (Variation 8) The specific HTTP command in each of the above embodiments is not limited to a GPA and a management screen request, but may be, for example, an SPA or a GPA that does not include a data acquisition request. In this case, when the printer 10 receives a GPA that does not include an SPA or a data acquisition request, it may store the current date and time as the access date and time, and may not store the current date and time as the Get date and time. In this variation, an SPA or a GPA that does not include a data acquisition request is an example of a "different request."

[0097] (Modification 9) In each of the above embodiments, the printer 10 stores the execution date and time (S12 in FIG. 4). Alternatively, when a print execution request is received, the printer 10 may store in the memory 34 a selection flag indicating that the preset data has been selected by the user, in association with the preset data. The first selection flag may then be automatically deleted when a predetermined period (e.g., two months) has elapsed. In this case, in S42 in FIG. 5, the printer 10 may determine NO if the selection flag is stored in the memory 34, and may determine YES if the selection flag is not stored in the memory 34. According to this modification, the selection flag is an example of "selection information."

[0098] (Modification 10) The processes of S40, S42, and S50 in Fig. 5 may not be executed. In this case, the printer 10 may execute the process of S52 when determining YES in S30. In this modification, the "third storage control unit" can be omitted.

[0099] (Modification 11) The determination in S30 in Fig. 5 does not have to be executed. In this modification, the "storage date and time" can be omitted.

[0100] (Modification 12) The determinations of S40 in FIG. 5 and S62 and S66 in FIG. 6 do not have to be executed.

[0101] (Modification 13) In the above embodiments, the processes in FIGS. 2 to 8 are implemented by software (for example, program 40), but at least one of these processes may be implemented by hardware such as a logic circuit.

[0102] In addition, the technical elements described in this specification or drawings exert technical utility alone or in various combinations, and are not limited to the combinations described in the claims at the time of filing. In addition, the technologies exemplified in this specification or drawings achieve multiple objectives simultaneously, and achieving one of those objectives is itself technically useful. The features of the technology disclosed in this specification are listed below. (Item 1) An image processing device, an image processing execution unit for executing image processing; a memory capable of storing a plurality of setting data related to the image processing; a setting data transmission unit that transmits at least one of the plurality of setting data stored in the memory to the first terminal device when an acquisition request is received from the first terminal device; an execution request receiving unit that receives, when specific setting data is selected from the at least one setting data in the first terminal device after the at least one setting data is transmitted to the first terminal device, an execution request for the image processing including related information related to the specific setting data from the first terminal device; an image processing control unit that, when the execution request is executed from the first terminal device, causes the image processing execution unit to execute the image processing in accordance with one or more setting values ​​corresponding to the related information included in the execution request; a determination unit that determines whether or not there is target setting data among the plurality of setting data stored in the memory, the target setting data being setting data that has not been used for a period exceeding a predetermined period; a deletion unit that deletes the target setting data from the memory when it is determined that the target setting data exists; An image processing device comprising: (Item 2) The memory is further capable of storing a deletion flag indicating a flag value that can be set by a user; the deletion flag indicates either a first flag value indicating that deletion of the configuration data is permitted or a second flag value indicating that deletion of the configuration data is not permitted; the deletion unit deletes the target setting data from the memory when it is determined that the deletion flag in the memory indicates the first flag value and the target setting data exists; 2. The image processing device according to item 1, wherein when the deletion flag in the memory indicates the second flag value, the target setting data is not deleted from the memory. (Item 3) The memory is capable of storing, for each of one or more pieces of user information, the user information and one or more pieces of setting data in association with each other; The image processing device further comprises: a request receiving unit for receiving a specific request including the first user information from a second terminal device; a first storage control unit that, when the specific request is received, stores reception information indicating reception of the specific request in the memory in association with the first user information; The image processing device according to item 1 or 2, wherein the determination unit determines whether or not the target setting data associated with the first user information exists based on the received information associated with the first user information. (Item 4) the reception information includes reception date and time information indicating a date and time when the specific request was received; The image processing device according to item 3, wherein the determination unit determines that the target setting data associated with the first user information exists when a difference period between the date and time indicated by the reception date and time information associated with the first user information and the current date and time exceeds a first type of predetermined period. (Item 5) the specific request is any one of a plurality of requests including the acquisition request including the first user information and a request different from the acquisition request and including the first user information; The first storage control unit includes: When the acquisition request is received as the specific request, a first type of reception date and time information indicating a date and time when the acquisition request was received and a second type of reception date and time information indicating a date and time when any of the plurality of requests was received are stored in the memory; When the different request is received as the specific request, the first type of reception date and time information is not stored in the memory, and the second type of reception date and time information is stored in the memory; The image processing device according to item 4, wherein the determination unit further determines that the target setting data associated with the first user information exists when a differential period between the date and time indicated by the second type of reception date and time information associated with the first user information and the current date and time does not exceed the second type of specified period, and when a differential period between the date and time indicated by the first type of reception date and time information associated with the first user information and the current date and time exceeds the first type of specified period. (Item 6) 6. The image processing device according to item 5, wherein the first type of predetermined period is shorter than the second type of predetermined period. (Item 7) The image processing device further comprises: a third storage control unit that stores selection information in the memory, when the execution request is received from the first terminal device, and when at least a portion of the plurality of setting items indicated by the execution request matches all of the setting items indicated by one of the at least one setting data, and when one or more setting values ​​corresponding to the at least a portion match one or more setting values ​​corresponding to the one setting data, in association with the specific setting data that is the one setting data, and indicates that the specific setting data has been selected; 7. The image processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the determination unit determines whether or not the target setting data exists based on the selection information associated with the specific setting data. (Item 8) The image processing device further comprises: a fourth storage control unit that stores selection information indicating that the specific setting data has been selected in the memory in association with the specific setting data, when the execution request is received from the first terminal device, and when at least a portion of the multiple setting items indicated by the execution request match all of the setting items indicated by one of the at least one setting data, and when one or more setting values, excluding a specific setting value, among two or more setting values ​​corresponding to the at least a portion match one or more setting values, excluding the specific setting value, among two or more setting values ​​corresponding to the one setting data, 7. The image processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the determination unit determines whether or not the target setting data exists based on the selection information associated with the specific setting data. (Item 9) the memory is capable of storing, for each of the plurality of pieces of setting data, the setting data and identification information for identifying the setting data in association with each other; the setting data transmission unit transmits the at least one piece of setting data and at least one piece of identification information corresponding to the at least one piece of setting data to the first terminal device; The execution request includes specific identification information that identifies the specific setting data, The image processing device further comprises: When the execution request is executed from the first terminal device and the specific identification information included in the execution request matches the identification information in the memory, selection information indicating that the specific setting data has been selected is associated with the specific setting data and stored in the memory. a fifth storage control unit for storing the 7. The image processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the determination unit determines whether or not the target setting data exists based on the selection information associated with the specific setting data. (Item 10) the selection information includes execution date and time information indicating a date and time when the execution request was received; The image processing device according to any one of items 7 to 9, wherein the judgment unit judges that the specific setting data is the target setting data when a difference period between the date and time indicated by the execution date and time information associated with the specific setting data and the current date and time exceeds a third type of predetermined period. (Item 11) The image processing device according to any one of items 1 to 8, wherein the deletion unit does not delete the target setting data from the memory even if the target setting data exists, if the period of time since the target setting data was registered does not exceed a specific period. (Item 12) 10. The image processing device according to any one of items 1 to 9, wherein each of the plurality of setting data is data conforming to IPP (abbreviation of Internet Printing Protocol). (Item 13) A computer program for an image processing device, comprising: The image processing device includes: an image processing execution unit for executing image processing; a memory capable of storing a plurality of setting data related to the image processing; A computer, Equipped with The computer program causes the computer to operate in the following manner: a setting data transmission unit that transmits at least one of the plurality of setting data stored in the memory to the first terminal device when an acquisition request is received from the first terminal device; an execution request receiving unit that receives, when specific setting data is selected from the at least one setting data in the first terminal device after the at least one setting data is transmitted to the first terminal device, an execution request for the image processing including related information related to the specific setting data from the first terminal device; an image processing control unit that, when the execution request is executed from the first terminal device, causes the image processing execution unit to execute the image processing in accordance with one or more setting values ​​corresponding to the related information included in the execution request; a determination unit that determines whether or not there is target setting data among the plurality of setting data stored in the memory, the target setting data being setting data that has not been used for a period exceeding a predetermined period; a deletion unit that deletes the target setting data from the memory when it is determined that the target setting data exists; A computer program that functions as a [Explanation of symbols]

[0103] 2: communication system, 10: printer, 12: operation unit, 14: display unit, 16: print execution unit, 30: control unit, 32: CPU, 34: memory, 40: program, 42: user table, 44: preset table, 46: deletion flag, 100: terminal, SD2: storage date and time, ED2: execution date and time, AD1, AD2: access date and time, GD1: get date and time, D1, D2: setting data, PD1, PD2: preset data, UN1: user name, PW1: password

Claims

1. An image processing device, an image processing execution unit for executing image processing; a memory capable of storing a plurality of setting data related to the image processing, the memory being capable of storing, for each of one or more pieces of user information, one or more pieces of setting data in association with the user information; a setting data transmission unit that transmits at least one of the plurality of setting data stored in the memory to the first terminal device when an acquisition request is received from the first terminal device; an execution request receiving unit that receives, when specific setting data is selected from the at least one setting data in the first terminal device after the at least one setting data is transmitted to the first terminal device, a request to execute the image processing, the request including related information related to the specific setting data, from the first terminal device; an image processing control unit that, when the execution request is executed from the first terminal device, causes the image processing execution unit to execute the image processing in accordance with one or more setting values ​​corresponding to the related information included in the execution request; a request receiving unit that receives a specific request including the first user information from a second terminal device, the specific request being any one of a plurality of requests including the acquisition request including the first user information and the different request that is different from the acquisition request and includes the first user information; a first storage control unit that, when the specific request is received, stores reception information indicating reception of the specific request in the memory in association with the first user information, the reception information includes reception date and time information indicating a date and time when the specific request was received; When the acquisition request is received as the specific request, a first type of reception date and time information indicating a date and time when the acquisition request was received and a second type of reception date and time information indicating a date and time when any of the plurality of requests was received are stored in the memory; when the different request is received as the specific request, the first type of reception date and time information is not stored in the memory, and the second type of reception date and time information is stored in the memory. The first storage control unit; a determination unit that determines whether or not there is target setting data that is setting data that has not been used for a period exceeding a predetermined period among the plurality of setting data stored in the memory, based on the received information associated with the first user information, determining that the target setting data associated with the first user information exists when a differential period between a date and time indicated by the second type of reception date and time information associated with the first user information and a current date and time does not exceed the second type of predetermined period, and a differential period between a date and time indicated by the first type of reception date and time information associated with the first user information and a current date and time exceeds the first type of predetermined period; The determination unit; a deletion unit that deletes the target setting data from the memory when it is determined that the target setting data exists; An image processing device comprising:

2. The image processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the first type of predetermined period is shorter than the second type of predetermined period.

3. The image processing device further comprises: a third storage control unit that stores selection information in the memory, when the execution request is received from the first terminal device, and when at least a portion of the plurality of setting items indicated by the execution request matches all of the setting items indicated by one of the at least one setting data, and when one or more setting values ​​corresponding to the at least a portion match one or more setting values ​​corresponding to the one setting data, in association with the specific setting data that is the one setting data, and indicates that the specific setting data has been selected; The image processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the determination unit determines whether or not the target setting data exists based on the selection information associated with the specific setting data.

4. An image processing device, an image processing execution unit for executing image processing; a memory capable of storing a plurality of setting data related to the image processing; a setting data transmission unit that transmits at least one of the plurality of setting data stored in the memory to the first terminal device when an acquisition request is received from the first terminal device; an execution request receiving unit that receives, when specific setting data is selected from the at least one setting data in the first terminal device after the at least one setting data is transmitted to the first terminal device, a request to execute the image processing, the request including related information related to the specific setting data, from the first terminal device; an image processing control unit that, when the execution request is executed from the first terminal device, causes the image processing execution unit to execute the image processing in accordance with one or more setting values ​​corresponding to the related information included in the execution request; a fourth storage control unit that stores selection information indicating that the specific setting data has been selected in the memory in association with the specific setting data, when the execution request is received from the first terminal device, and when at least a portion of the multiple setting items indicated by the execution request match all of the setting items indicated by one of the at least one setting data, and when one or more setting values, excluding a specific setting value, among two or more setting values ​​corresponding to the at least a portion match one or more setting values, excluding the specific setting value, among the two or more setting values ​​corresponding to the one setting data; a determination unit that determines whether or not there is target setting data among the plurality of setting data stored in the memory, the target setting data being setting data that has not been used for a period exceeding a predetermined period, based on the selection information associated with the specific setting data; a deletion unit that deletes the target setting data from the memory when it is determined that the target setting data exists; An image processing device comprising:

5. An image processing device, an image processing execution unit for executing image processing; a memory capable of storing a plurality of pieces of setting data related to the image processing, the memory being capable of storing, for each of the plurality of pieces of setting data, the setting data and identification information for identifying the setting data in association with each other; a setting data transmission unit that transmits, when an acquisition request is received from a first terminal device, at least one piece of setting data among the plurality of setting data stored in the memory and at least one piece of identification information corresponding to the at least one piece of setting data to the first terminal device; an execution request receiving unit that receives, when specific setting data is selected from the at least one setting data in the first terminal device after the at least one setting data is transmitted to the first terminal device, a request to execute the image processing including related information related to the specific setting data from the first terminal device, the execution request including specific identification information that identifies the specific setting data; an image processing control unit that, when the execution request is executed from the first terminal device, causes the image processing execution unit to execute the image processing in accordance with one or more setting values ​​corresponding to the related information included in the execution request; a fifth storage control unit that, when the execution request is executed from the first terminal device and the specific identification information included in the execution request matches the identification information in the memory, stores selection information in the memory in association with the specific setting data, the selection information indicating that the specific setting data has been selected; a determination unit that determines whether or not there is target setting data among the plurality of setting data stored in the memory, the target setting data being setting data that has not been used for a period exceeding a predetermined period, based on the selection information associated with the specific setting data; a deletion unit that deletes the target setting data from the memory when it is determined that the target setting data exists; An image processing device comprising:

6. the memory is capable of storing, for each of one or more pieces of user information, the user information and one or more pieces of setting data in association with each other; The image processing device further comprises: a request receiving unit for receiving a specific request including the first user information from a second terminal device; a first storage control unit that, when the specific request is received, stores reception information indicating reception of the specific request in the memory in association with the first user information; The image processing device according to claim 4 , wherein the determination unit determines whether or not the target setting data associated with the first user information exists based on the received information associated with the first user information.

7. the reception information includes reception date and time information indicating a date and time when the specific request was received; 7. The image processing device of claim 6, wherein the determination unit determines that the target setting data associated with the first user information exists when a difference period between the date and time indicated by the reception date and time information associated with the first user information and the current date and time exceeds a first type of predetermined period.

8. the specific request is any one of a plurality of requests including the acquisition request including the first user information and a request different from the acquisition request and including the first user information; The first storage control unit is When the acquisition request is received as the specific request, a first type of reception date and time information indicating a date and time when the acquisition request was received and a second type of reception date and time information indicating a date and time when any of the plurality of requests was received are stored in the memory; When the different request is received as the specific request, the first type of reception date and time information is not stored in the memory, and the second type of reception date and time information is stored in the memory; 8. The image processing device of claim 7, wherein the determination unit further determines that the target setting data associated with the first user information exists when a differential period between the date and time indicated by the second type of reception date and time information associated with the first user information and the current date and time does not exceed the second type of specified period, and when a differential period between the date and time indicated by the first type of reception date and time information associated with the first user information and the current date and time exceeds the first type of specified period.

9. The image processing device according to claim 8 , wherein the first type of predetermined period is shorter than the second type of predetermined period.

10. the selection information includes execution date and time information indicating a date and time when the execution request was received; 10. An image processing device according to claim 4, wherein the determination unit determines that the specific setting data is the target setting data when a differential period between the date and time indicated by the execution date and time information associated with the specific setting data and the current date and time exceeds a third type of predetermined period.

11. 11. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of setting data is data conforming to IPP (abbreviation of Internet Printing Protocol).

12. The memory is further capable of storing a deletion flag indicating a flag value that can be set by a user; the deletion flag indicates either a first flag value indicating that deletion of the setting data is permitted or a second flag value indicating that deletion of the setting data is not permitted; the deletion unit deletes the target setting data from the memory when it is determined that the deletion flag in the memory indicates the first flag value and the target setting data exists; The image processing device according to claim 1 , wherein when the deletion flag in the memory indicates the second flag value, the target setting data is not deleted from the memory.

13. A computer program for an image processing device, comprising: The image processing device includes: an image processing execution unit for executing image processing; a memory capable of storing a plurality of setting data related to the image processing, the memory being capable of storing, for each of one or more pieces of user information, one or more pieces of setting data in association with the user information; A computer, Equipped with The computer program causes the computer to operate in the following manner: a setting data transmission unit that transmits at least one of the plurality of setting data stored in the memory to the first terminal device when an acquisition request is received from the first terminal device; an execution request receiving unit that receives, when specific setting data is selected from the at least one setting data in the first terminal device after the at least one setting data is transmitted to the first terminal device, a request to execute the image processing, the request including related information related to the specific setting data, from the first terminal device; an image processing control unit that, when the execution request is executed from the first terminal device, causes the image processing execution unit to execute the image processing in accordance with one or more setting values ​​corresponding to the related information included in the execution request; a request receiving unit that receives a specific request including the first user information from a second terminal device, the specific request being any one of a plurality of requests including the acquisition request including the first user information and the different request that is different from the acquisition request and includes the first user information; a first storage control unit that, when the specific request is received, stores reception information indicating reception of the specific request in the memory in association with the first user information, the reception information includes reception date and time information indicating a date and time when the specific request was received; When the acquisition request is received as the specific request, a first type of reception date and time information indicating a date and time when the acquisition request was received and a second type of reception date and time information indicating a date and time when any of the plurality of requests was received are stored in the memory; when the different request is received as the specific request, the first type of reception date and time information is not stored in the memory, and the second type of reception date and time information is stored in the memory. The first storage control unit; a determination unit that determines whether or not there is target setting data that is setting data that has not been used for a period exceeding a predetermined period among the plurality of setting data stored in the memory, based on the received information associated with the first user information, determining that the target setting data associated with the first user information exists when a differential period between a date and time indicated by the second type of reception date and time information associated with the first user information and a current date and time does not exceed the second type of predetermined period, and a differential period between a date and time indicated by the first type of reception date and time information associated with the first user information and a current date and time exceeds the first type of predetermined period; The determination unit; a deletion unit that deletes the target setting data from the memory when it is determined that the target setting data exists; A computer program that functions as a

14. A computer program for an image processing device, comprising: The image processing device includes: an image processing execution unit for executing image processing; a memory capable of storing a plurality of setting data related to the image processing; A computer, Equipped with The computer program causes the computer to operate in the following manner: a setting data transmission unit that transmits at least one of the plurality of setting data stored in the memory to the first terminal device when an acquisition request is received from the first terminal device; an execution request receiving unit that receives, when specific setting data is selected from the at least one setting data in the first terminal device after the at least one setting data is transmitted to the first terminal device, a request to execute the image processing, the request including related information related to the specific setting data, from the first terminal device; an image processing control unit that, when the execution request is executed from the first terminal device, causes the image processing execution unit to execute the image processing in accordance with one or more setting values ​​corresponding to the related information included in the execution request; a fourth storage control unit that stores selection information indicating that the specific setting data has been selected in the memory in association with the specific setting data, when the execution request is received from the first terminal device, and when at least a portion of the multiple setting items indicated by the execution request match all of the setting items indicated by one of the at least one setting data, and when one or more setting values, excluding a specific setting value, among two or more setting values ​​corresponding to the at least a portion match one or more setting values, excluding the specific setting value, among the two or more setting values ​​corresponding to the one setting data; a determination unit that determines whether or not there is target setting data among the plurality of setting data stored in the memory, the target setting data being setting data that has not been used for a period exceeding a predetermined period, based on the selection information associated with the specific setting data; a deletion unit that deletes the target setting data from the memory when it is determined that the target setting data exists; A computer program that functions as a

15. A computer program for an image processing device, comprising: The image processing device includes: an image processing execution unit for executing image processing; a memory capable of storing a plurality of pieces of setting data related to the image processing, the memory being capable of storing, for each of the plurality of pieces of setting data, the setting data and identification information for identifying the setting data in association with each other; A computer, Equipped with The computer program causes the computer to operate in the following manner: a setting data transmission unit that transmits, when an acquisition request is received from a first terminal device, at least one piece of setting data among the plurality of setting data stored in the memory and at least one piece of identification information corresponding to the at least one piece of setting data to the first terminal device; an execution request receiving unit that receives, when specific setting data is selected from the at least one setting data in the first terminal device after the at least one setting data is transmitted to the first terminal device, a request to execute the image processing including related information related to the specific setting data from the first terminal device, the execution request including specific identification information that identifies the specific setting data; an image processing control unit that, when the execution request is executed from the first terminal device, causes the image processing execution unit to execute the image processing in accordance with one or more setting values ​​corresponding to the related information included in the execution request; a fifth storage control unit that, when the execution request is executed from the first terminal device and the specific identification information included in the execution request matches the identification information in the memory, stores selection information in the memory in association with the specific setting data, the selection information indicating that the specific setting data has been selected; a determination unit that determines whether or not there is target setting data among the plurality of setting data stored in the memory, the target setting data being setting data that has not been used for a period exceeding a predetermined period, based on the selection information associated with the specific setting data; a deletion unit that deletes the target setting data from the memory when it is determined that the target setting data exists; A computer program that functions as a

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