Image Processing Device

Abstract

This image processing device comprises an operation panel. In the operation panel, a main screen and a sub screen can be displayed. The main screen has a menu region in which a plurality of function buttons corresponding to the types of image processing are arranged. The sub screen has a reception region which is transitioned from the main screen after one of the function buttons is selected, and receives an instruction for image processing pertaining to the selected function button. In the sub screen, a history display region, which displays a plurality of history buttons that include information about image processing completed in the past, specialized for the image processing corresponding to the function button being selected, is displayed side by side with the reception region.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an image processing device. Image processing refers to various processes relating to the handling of images, such as printing an image, scanning an image, and sending and receiving an image file. [Background technology]

[0002] Image processing devices capable of displaying the history of image processing are known (for example, see Patent Document 1 below). For example, the image processing device of Patent Document 1 displays multiple buttons (history buttons) relating to the history of image processing on an operation panel, arranged in the order of the date and time the image processing was performed. Each history button displays the type of image processing (copy, scan, etc.), the conditions of the image processing (number of copies, color or monochrome printing, single-sided or double-sided printing, etc.), and the date and time the image processing was performed. When any of the history buttons is selected via an operation panel equipped with a touch panel, the conditions of the image processing corresponding to that history button are set as the conditions for the image processing to be performed. This allows previously set conditions to be easily used. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2018-125687 A Summary of the Invention

[0004] An image processing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes an operation panel capable of realizing a predetermined display form. The operation panel is capable of displaying a main screen and a sub-screen. The main screen has a menu area in which a plurality of function buttons corresponding to types of image processing are arranged. The sub-screen has a reception area which transitions from the main screen after one of the function buttons is selected and receives an instruction for image processing related to the selected function button. The sub-screen displays a first history display area, which is aligned with the reception area and displays a plurality of history buttons including information on image processing completed in the past, specialized for image processing corresponding to the selected function button. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0005] [Figure 1] 1 is an external view of an image processing apparatus according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of an image processing apparatus according to an embodiment. [Diagram 3] 2 is a view showing an example of a main screen displayed on an operation panel of the image processing apparatus in FIG. 1; [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a sub-screen (copy) transitioned to from the main screen in FIG. 3; [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a sub-screen (FAX) displayed after transition from the main screen in FIG. 3; [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a sub-screen (email) transitioned to from the main screen of FIG. 3; [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a main screen after user authentication. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a sub-screen (copy) transitioned to from the main screen in FIG. 7; [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a main screen when a fixed display is set on the main screen. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a sub-screen (copy) transitioned to from the main screen in FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a sub-screen when fixed display is set on the sub-screen (copy). [Figure 12]FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a main screen transitioned from the sub screen in FIG. 11. [Figure 13] 13 is a diagram showing an example of a main screen displayed from the main screen of FIG. 9 or FIG. 12 via the sub-screen (FAX) of FIG. 5. [Figure 14] 13 is a view showing another example of the main screen displayed from the main screen of FIG. 9 or FIG. 12 via the sub-screen (FAX) of FIG. 5. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a sub-screen (FAX) when a communication destination is input. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a sub-screen (email) when a communication destination is input. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0006] (Overview of image processing device) FIG. 1 is an external view of an image processing device 1 according to an embodiment, and FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the image processing device 1. As shown in FIG.

[0007] The image processing device 1 is configured as a multifunction device, and includes, for example, the following components: A printer 3 for printing; a scanner 5 for reading images; a communication unit 7 for communicating with the outside; an operation panel 9 for accepting user operations; a CPU 11 (Central Processing Unit) for performing various calculations; a storage unit 13 for storing various information; and a housing 15 for holding these components.

[0008] Operation panel 9 is provided on the upper part of housing 15 and includes a touch panel. Operation panel 9 may include operation objects other than the touch panel, such as physical buttons. However, in the description of the embodiment, some expressions are given on the premise that operation panel 9 is composed only of a touch panel.

[0009] 3 is a diagram showing an example of a main screen 101 displayed on the operation panel 9. Here, a home screen is shown as an example of the main screen 101.

[0010] The main screen 101 is a screen that is displayed, for example, when the user starts using the image processing device 1 or when the image processing device 1 is in standby mode. From another perspective, the main screen 101 is a screen that is launched when the image processing device 1 is powered on, when the image processing device 1 returns from a sleep mode, and / or when user authentication in the image processing device 1 is successful.

[0011] On the main screen 101, for example, a menu area 101a and a history display area (timeline display area) 101b are displayed side by side. The menu area 101a displays a partial area of ​​the main area 103. The range of the partial area in the main area 103 that is occupied by the partial area may be indicated by a scroll bar 111. Moreover, the history display area 101b displays a partial area of ​​the history area (timeline area) 105. The range of the partial area in the history area 105 that is occupied by the partial area may be indicated by a scroll bar 113.

[0012] In the menu area 101a (main area 103), a plurality of function buttons 107 corresponding to types of image processing are arranged. The plurality of function buttons 107 are for selecting one of different functions (image processing from another point of view). The function buttons 107 display information of the function corresponding to the button. In FIG. 3, functions such as "copy", "print", "scan", "FAX" (facsimile), "email" and "document box" are illustrated. When a predetermined operation (for example, a single touch (for example, a tap)) is performed on any of the function buttons 107, for example, the screen displayed on the operation panel 9 is switched to a screen (sub-screen 121 (for example, FIG. 4)) for performing an operation related to the function corresponding to the function button 107. That is, after one of the function buttons 107 is selected on the main screen 101, the main screen 101 transitions to the sub-screen 121. The operation related to the function is, for example, an operation for executing image processing and an operation for setting conditions for image processing (for example, the size of paper when making a copy).

[0013] The history area 105 has a plurality of history buttons 109. Each history button 109 includes (displays) information about image processing (functions) performed in the past. In FIG. 3, the information about image processing displayed on the history buttons 109 includes, for example, the date and time when the image processing was performed, the type of image processing (in FIG. 3, "copy", "FAX" or "email" is exemplified), and the conditions of the image processing (in FIG. 3, "color", "black and white" and the like are exemplified). In addition, the history buttons 109 may display a communication destination (hereinafter also referred to as a destination). When a predetermined operation (for example, a single touch (for example, a tap)) is performed on any of the history buttons 109, the screen displayed on the operation panel 9 is switched to, for example, a history use screen (not shown) for using the history information corresponding to that history button 109.

[0014] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a sub-screen 121 displayed on the operation panel 9. More specifically, an example of the sub-screen 121 when the function button 107 of "copy" is selected among the six function buttons 107 illustrated in FIG. 3 is shown. The sub-screen 121 is a screen related to image processing corresponding to the selected function button 107. The sub-screen 121 displays a reception area 121a for receiving an instruction for image processing related to the selected function button 107 and a history display area 121b including a plurality of history buttons 134 including information on image processing completed in the past, specialized for the image processing corresponding to the selected function button 107, side by side. The history display area 121b displays a part of the history area (timeline area) 135. The range of the part of the history area 135 that the part occupies may be indicated by a scroll bar 123.

[0015] The image processing device 1 may or may not have a function to identify a user (which includes a user group unless otherwise specified and unless there is a contradiction, etc.; the same applies below) (and furthermore, a function to authenticate the user). For ease of explanation, for convenience, an aspect in which the presence or absence of such identification and authentication functions does not matter is referred to as the first embodiment, and an aspect in which an authentication function is a prerequisite is referred to as the second embodiment, and they will be explained in order. However, for convenience, even in the explanation of the first embodiment, reference may be made to information, configuration, and operation that are based on the assumption that the image processing device 1 has a function to identify (and further authenticate) the user.

[0016] First Embodiment The image processing device 1 according to the first embodiment will be roughly described below in the following order. 1.1.Terminology 1.2. Configuration of image processing device 1 (FIGS. 1 and 2) 1.3. Operation of the image processing device 1 related to the main screen 101 (FIG. 3) 1.4. Operation of the image processing device 1 related to the sub-screen 121 (FIGS. 4 to 6)

[0017] (1.1. Terminology) An "image" may include only text. The format of the "image data" may be various, for example, a vector format or a raster format. In the description of the embodiment, for convenience, there may be no strict distinction between an "image" and "image data".

[0018] The format of the "image data" may be appropriately converted during image processing. For example, the image data may be different when stored in the image processing device 1 and when image processing (e.g., printing, scanning, faxing, sending / receiving an image file, etc.) is performed. However, in the description of the embodiment, for convenience, the description of such format conversion is omitted, and the image data before and after the conversion may be described as being the same. In addition, the image data may be modified such that the image quality is changed or a part of the image is cut out when image processing is performed. In such a case, in the description of the embodiment, for convenience, the image data before and after the modification may not be distinguished.

[0019] Information displayed in various portions of various screens of the operation panel 9 (e.g., history buttons 109, 134) may be displayed, for example, by text and / or by symbol images. In the description of the embodiments, for example, when it is said that information is displayed on the operation panel 9 or that a portion (such as a button) displayed on the operation panel 9 contains information, it is assumed that the information may be displayed by text and / or symbol images, unless a particular contradiction occurs. Portions where information is displayed include, for example, the history buttons 109, 134, as well as the function button 107, the execute button 125, the setting button 131 (described later), the back button 133 (described later), the areas surrounding these buttons, and the title bars 115 and 127 (described later).

[0020] "Text" may refer to, for example, information displayed as a character string and / or information displayed based on text data. Thus, for example, text may be a character string displayed based on image data, or a symbol or only one character displayed based on text data. "Symbol image" may refer to, for example, information displayed as a symbol or figure, etc., and / or information displayed based on image data. Thus, for example, a symbol image may be a symbol displayed based on text data, or one or more characters displayed based on image data. As can be understood from the above explanation, text and symbol image may be classified as partially overlapping.

[0021] The "buttons" displayed on the operation panel 9 do not have to imitate physical buttons. For example, the buttons may be indicated only by text and / or symbolic images, and may not have a border surrounding the text and / or symbolic images. From another perspective, for example, the boundary between the area where a user's operation is detected and the surrounding area does not have to be expressed by a border or a difference in color.

[0022] In the description of the embodiments, for convenience, terms indicating specific aspects of operations on the operation panel 9, such as "tap," "double tap," and "long tap," may be used. However, these terms may be generalized as "predetermined operations."

[0023] (1.2. Configuration of image processing device) The image processing device 1 shown in Figs. 1 and 2 has an operation panel 9 and is configured to be capable of performing one or more types of image processing. The specific configuration may be various, for example, a known configuration. In this embodiment, as described above, the printer 3, scanner 5, and communication unit 7 are provided as a configuration for performing image processing. Examples of aspects different from this embodiment include an aspect having only one of the printer 3 and the scanner 5, and an aspect not having the communication unit 7. In addition, the configurations of the various parts (3, 5, 7, 9, 11, and 13) of the image processing device 1 may also be various, for example, a known configuration.

[0024] The image processing device 1 has, for example, a housing 15 that houses the various components (3, 5, 7, 9, 11, and 13) described above. The size and shape of the image processing device 1 (or the housing 15 from another point of view) are arbitrary. For example, the image processing device 1 may have a size (mass) that can be carried by one person, such as a home multifunction device or printer, or may have a size (mass) that cannot be carried by one person, such as a commercial multifunction device or printer.

[0025] The image processing device 1 may be operated in any manner (or, from another perspective, may be positioned in society). For example, the image processing device 1 may be placed in a home and used domestically or personally, may be placed in a company and used by a specific number of users, or may be placed in a store such as a convenience store and used by an unspecified number of users. When it is assumed that the image processing device 1 will be used by an unspecified number of users, the image processing device 1 may authenticate the user and permit access only to image data related to that user.

[0026] The printer 3 may have any configuration. For example, the printer 3 may be configured to print on paper (sheets from another perspective) placed in a tray (not shown) and discharge the paper after printing. The printer 3 may have only one tray, or may have multiple trays. The multiple trays contribute to storing paper of different sizes, for example. From another perspective, the printer 3 may or may not have a function to select the size of the paper. Note that in the description of this embodiment, the former is taken as an example. Also, the printer 3 may be configured to be capable of color (as well as monochrome and grayscale) printing, may be configured to be capable of only grayscale (and monochrome) printing, or may be configured to be capable of only monochrome printing. Note that in the description of this embodiment, a configuration capable of color printing is taken as an example.

[0027] Also, for example, the printer 3 may be an inkjet printer that prints by ejecting ink, a thermal printer that prints by heating thermal paper or an ink ribbon, or an electrophotographic printer (e.g., a laser printer) that transfers toner attached to a photoreceptor irradiated with light. The inkjet printer may be a piezoelectric type that applies pressure to the ink by a piezoelectric body, or a thermal type that applies pressure to the ink by bubbles that are generated in the ink when heat is applied. Also, for example, the printer 3 may be a line printer whose head has a length spanning the width of the paper (a direction intersecting the paper transport direction), or a serial printer whose head moves in the width direction of the paper.

[0028] The scanner 5 scans the document placed on the document glass by capturing an image of the document using a plurality of image pickup elements (not shown) that move along the document glass below the document glass.

[0029] The communication unit 7 realizes communication between the image processing device 1 and other devices. Examples of the other devices include a personal computer (PC), a mobile terminal (such as a smartphone), other image processing devices, and servers. Examples of the servers include a file server, a mail server, and a Web server. The communication may be performed directly with the other devices, or indirectly via a network. Examples of the network include a telephone network, the Internet, a private network, and a LAN (Local Area Network). The communication may be wired communication, wireless communication, short-distance communication, or long-distance communication.

[0030] The image processing device 1 may be configured to be capable of any one or more of the various types of communication described above. In the description of this embodiment, an example is taken of an embodiment in which the image processing device 1 is capable of the various types of communication described above. Although not particularly shown, the communication unit 7 includes various components for realizing the various types of communication described above. The communication unit 7 may be considered to include only a hardware configuration (e.g., a connector, an antenna, an amplifier, a filter, and an RF (Radio Frequency) circuit), or may be considered to include a software configuration (a functional unit constructed by a CPU executing a program) in addition to the hardware configuration.

[0031] As described above, the operation panel 9 includes a touch panel. Although not shown in the figure, the touch panel has a display device and a position input device that overlaps the screen of the display device. The display device and the position input device may have any configuration.

[0032] For example, the display device may be configured with a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display. These displays have a relatively large number of regularly arranged pixels and can display images including any shape based on image data. The display device may be capable of displaying color images, may be capable of displaying only grayscale images (and monochrome images), or may be capable of displaying only monochrome images (binary images).

[0033] Also, for example, the position input device may be of an electrostatic type or a pressure-sensitive type. An electrostatic type detects a change in capacitance on the screen and / or in its vicinity due to contact or proximity of a finger or pen. A pressure-sensitive type detects pressure applied to the screen. Alternatively, the position input device may be one that uses surface acoustic waves, infrared light, or electromagnetic induction. Also, the position input device may or may not require a dedicated pen.

[0034] In the description of this embodiment, for convenience, operations on the operation panel 9 (operations on software buttons, etc.) may be expressed on the assumption that the operation is made by contact. However, as can be understood from the above description, an operation may be detected without contact.

[0035] The CPU 11 executes the programs stored in the storage unit 13 to construct functional units that execute various processes. An example of such functional units is a control unit. The control unit controls the operations of the printer 3, the scanner 5, the communication unit 7, and the operation panel 9. In addition to the parts constructed by the CPU 11, the control unit may also include a logic circuit configured to perform only certain operations.

[0036] The storage unit 13 includes various memories, such as a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and an auxiliary storage device, which are not particularly shown. The combination of the CPU 11 and the storage unit 13 may be regarded as a computer. The program for the CPU 11 to construct the control unit 17 is stored, for example, in the ROM and / or the auxiliary storage device of the storage unit 13.

[0037] The various components (3, 5, 7, 9, 11, and 13) described above are connected, for example, by a bus 21. In FIG. 2, all the components are connected to one bus 21 in a schematic manner. In an actual product, multiple buses may be connected in an appropriate format. For example, an address bus, a data bus, and a control bus may be provided. A crossbar switch and / or a link bus may also be applied. An interface (not shown) may be interposed between the bus 21 and each unit (3, 5, 7, 9, etc.).

[0038] 2 is merely a schematic diagram. Therefore, for example, the CPU and the storage unit (control unit from another point of view) may be provided in a distributed manner. For example, a CPU (control unit that controls each unit from another point of view) included in each unit (3, 5, 7, and / or 9) and a higher-level CPU (higher-level control unit that controls the control unit of each unit) may be provided. In such a case, the control unit referred to in the description of the embodiment may be regarded as a higher-level control unit, or may be regarded as a combination of the control unit of each unit and the higher-level control unit. As can be understood from the above, the control unit and each unit (3, 5, 7, and / or 9) may not necessarily be clearly distinguishable.

[0039] (1.3. Operation of the image processing device related to the main screen) 3 is displayed, for example, over the entire screen of the operation panel 9. The main screen 101 may include (or may display) the main area 103, the history area 105, and the scroll bars 111 and 113, for example, as described above.

[0040] A menu area 101a and a history display area 101b are displayed side by side on the main screen 101. The history display area 101b includes a plurality of history buttons 109 including information on image processing that has been completed in the past regarding a plurality of types of image processing that correspond to the function buttons 107 in the menu area 101a. In addition, the main screen 101 may include other appropriate portions such as a title bar 115 at the top.

[0041] The following will provide an outline of the process. 1.3.1. Operation of the image processing device 1 related to the main area 103 1.3.2. Operation of the image processing device 1 related to the history area 105 (mainly the operation before transition to the sub screen 121)

[0042] (1.3.1. Operation of the image processing device related to the main area) The display mode of the main area 103 and the process executed when any of the function buttons 107 is selected may be various, and may be the same as known methods, for example.

[0043] In the example of Fig. 3, as described above, a portion of the main area 103 is displayed in the menu area 101a. Unlike the illustrated example, the entire main area 103 may be displayed in the menu area 101a. From another perspective, the number of function buttons 107 provided may be greater than the upper limit number that can be displayed simultaneously (the illustrated example), or may be less than the upper limit. In the mode in which a portion of the main area 103 is displayed in the menu area 101a, the scrolling direction (left and right in the illustrated example) is arbitrary.

[0044] The number of the function buttons 107 and the types of functions corresponding to the function buttons 107 may be set appropriately. The number of the function buttons 107 may be increased or decreased by the user. The function buttons 107 illustrated in FIG. 3 are as follows.

[0045] In the following description, function button 107 may be referred to by the text displayed within function button 107. The same applies to the other buttons.

[0046] "Copy" is for setting and / or executing a function (copy function) for printing an image read by the scanner 5 with the printer 3.

[0047] "Print" is for setting and / or executing a function to print, by the printer 3, an image based on data stored in a recording medium (not shown), for example, connected to the image processing device 1. The storage medium is, for example, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. Note that in the description of the embodiment, when referring to printing, unless otherwise specified or unless there is any contradiction, it is not limited to printing by the "Print" function button 107 (for example, it may include printing by receiving a print job from outside).

[0048] "Scan" is for setting and / or executing a function of saving an image read by the scanner 5 as data. The save destination may be, for example, an auxiliary storage device (non-volatile memory from another point of view) included in the storage unit 13, a storage medium connected to the image processing device 1, or another device that communicates with the image processing device 1 via the communication unit 7. Note that when referring to "scan" in the description of the embodiment, unless otherwise specified or unless a contradiction occurs, it is not limited to "scan" performed by the function button 107 (for example, it may include scanning performed in copying).

[0049] "FAX" is for setting and / or executing FAX. In sending FAX, for example, the image of the transmission document is read by the scanner 5, and the read image data is transmitted by the communication unit 7. In receiving FAX, for example, the image data is received by the communication unit 7, and printing based on the received image data is performed by the printer 3.

[0050] "Mail" is for setting and / or executing e-mail, and is used for sending and confirming receipt of e-mail with an image file attached. In this function, for example, a part or all of the contents of an e-mail received by the communication unit 7 may be printed by the printer 3. And / or, image data read by the scanner 5 may be attached to an e-mail in the form of an image file and sent by the communication unit 7. Furthermore, image data stored in the document box may be attached in the form of an image file and included in the e-mail sent by the communication unit 7.

[0051] The "document box" is for setting and / or executing a function of browsing information on any number of image data stored in an auxiliary storage device (non-volatile memory from another point of view) included in the storage unit 13 and executing image processing on selected image data. Image processing is, for example, printing, sending by FAX, or sending by email.

[0052] As described above, for example, when any of the function buttons 107 is tapped, the screen displayed on the operation panel 9 switches to a sub-screen 121 (e.g., FIG. 4) for performing an operation related to the function corresponding to that function button 107. FIG. 4 shows a sub-screen to which transition occurs when the function button 107 corresponding to "Copy" is selected.

[0053] (1.3.2. Operation of image processing device related to history area) The display format of the history area 105 may be various, and may be the same as a known format, for example.

[0054] The position, shape and area of ​​the history display area 101b are arbitrary. In the example of FIG. 3, the history display area 101b is located on one side in the horizontal direction (the right side in the illustrated example) of the rectangular main screen 101 (or, from another point of view, the entire screen of the operation panel 9) with the horizontal direction as the long direction, and is rectangular with the vertical direction as the long direction. The width of the history display area 101b is less than 1 / 2 or 1 / 3 of the width of the main screen 101. Most of the main screen 101 (e.g., 80% or more) excluding the history display area 101b is the menu area 101a.

[0055] In the example of FIG. 3, as described above, a portion of the history area 105 is displayed in the history display area 101b. Unlike the illustrated example, the entire history area 105 may be displayed in the history display area 101b. From another perspective, the number of history buttons 109 provided may be greater than the upper limit number that can be displayed simultaneously (the illustrated example), or may be less than the upper limit. In a mode in which a portion of the history area 105 is displayed in the history display area 101b, the scrolling direction (up and down in the illustrated example) is arbitrary.

[0056] The history buttons 109 are arranged in a line in a predetermined direction, for example, in the order of the date and time when the image processing corresponding to the history buttons 109 was performed. The history buttons 109 may be arranged in any direction. In the example of FIG. 3, the arrangement direction is the vertical direction of the main screen 101, the longitudinal direction of the history display area 101b, and the direction in which the history area 105 is scrolled. The history buttons 109 may be arranged in order of newness (in the example shown) from one side to the other side of the arrangement direction (from top to bottom in the example shown), or may be arranged in order of oldness, or may be switchable between the newest and oldest orders by performing a predetermined operation on the operation panel 9. In the description of this embodiment, it is assumed for convenience that the buttons are arranged in order of newness.

[0057] When image processing is executed via an operation on the function button 107, or when image processing is executed via an operation on the history button 109, a new history button 109 related to the image processing is added. In the case where the image processing that caused the history button 109 to be added is the same as the new image processing executed via an operation on the history button 109, the history button 109 may be newly added, or the execution date and time of the image processing corresponding to the operated history button 109 may be updated (from another point of view, the display position of the history button 109 may be changed). The image processing being the same here may mean, for example, that the image processing is the same except for the execution date and time. However, there may be differences other than the execution date and time. Note that, unlike the description of this embodiment, the history button 109 may not be added to the image processing executed via the operation on the history button 109.

[0058] The type of image processing for which the history button 109 is generated is arbitrary. For example, even if the image processing device 1 has six functions exemplified on the main screen 101, it is not necessary to generate the history button 109 for all of them. For example, the history button 109 may be generated only for image processing in which printing is performed by the image processing device 1, such as "copy" and "print" (as well as printing in the "document box"). Also, the history button 109 may be generated only for image processing in which scanning is performed by the image processing device 1, such as "copy", "scan", "fax" and "email". Also, the history button 109 may be generated only for image processing in which communication is not performed, such as "copy", "print" and "scan" (as well as printing in the "document box").

[0059] For image processing performed by transmitting a signal including a print job or the like from another device (e.g., a PC) to the communication unit 7, the history button 109 may or may not be added. If the history button 109 is added, for example, when a user who transmitted a print job from a PC to the image processing device 1 confirms that printing has failed in front of the image processing device 1, the user can reprint via the history button 109. In the description of this embodiment, the addition of the history button 109 associated with such image processing whose execution is instructed by communication with the outside is basically omitted. In the case where the history button 109 is added, an instruction to execute image processing by an external signal may be added to the portion of the description of the embodiment in which an instruction to execute image processing is given to the operation panel 9, so long as no contradictions arise.

[0060] The number of history buttons 109 provided in the history area 105 is limited to a predetermined upper limit. In other words, the number of history buttons 109 (including those displayed by scrolling) that can be displayed in the history display area 101b is limited to a predetermined upper limit. Therefore, for example, as described above, when history buttons 109 are added and the number of history buttons 109 reaches the upper limit, if a new history button 109 is added, the oldest history button 109 is deleted. In other words, the oldest history button 109 cannot be displayed.

[0061] The specific value of the upper limit is arbitrary, and as an example, it is 5, 10, or 20. The upper limit may be set by the manufacturer of the image processing device 1 and may not be changeable by an administrator or user of the image processing device 1, or may be set by an administrator of the image processing device 1. In an aspect in which the display mode of the history area 105 can be made different for each user, the upper limit may be set by the user.

[0062] When the number of history buttons 109 does not reach the upper limit, the display mode is arbitrary. For example, only history buttons 109 less than the upper limit may be displayed, or dummy history buttons (e.g., history buttons that do not display information inside) may also be displayed, resulting in a total of the upper limit number of history buttons. In the former mode, the length of the history area 105 may or may not change depending on the number of history buttons 109.

[0063] The image processing device 1 may be capable of operations different from those described above regarding the addition, deletion, and arrangement of the history buttons 109. For example, by performing an operation (e.g., a long tap or a double tap) on any history button 109 that is different from the operation for using history information corresponding to that history button 109 (switching to a history use screen), the deletion of that history button 109 may be prohibited, that history button 109 may always be arranged above the newest history button 109, or that history button 109 may be deleted. Note that in the description of this embodiment, in order to simplify the description and make it easier to understand, the description or expression may be given on the assumption that such operations are not performed.

[0064] The multiple history buttons 109 may, for example, have the same shape and size (as shown in the example), or may have different shapes and / or sizes. An example of the latter is a mode in which the shapes and / or sizes of the multiple history buttons 109 differ depending on the type of image processing (such as copying or scanning).

[0065] Each history button 109 includes (displays) information on the corresponding image processing. As described above, this information may include, for example, the date and time when the image processing was performed, the type of image processing, the conditions of the image processing, and the user name who performed the image processing. Other examples include the communication destination (sender and / or receiver) in the FAX function and / or the e-mail function.

[0066] The information on the image processing may include information on the image data handled in the image processing. Examples of the information on the image data include the size of the image data, the type of image (e.g., whether it is a document or not) determined by the image processing device 1, and the name given to the image data by the image processing device 1. For convenience, in the description of this embodiment, the description of the information on the image data as the information on the image processing will be omitted.

[0067] Each history button 109 may display at least one of the various pieces of information related to the image processing described above (for example, date and time, type, processing conditions, user name, and communication destination). The image processing conditions include various specific conditions, as exemplified in the description of FIG. 3 and the description of FIGS. 4 to 6 described below. In a mode in which the image processing conditions are displayed within the history button 109, the specific conditions to be displayed may be appropriately selected. In FIG. 3, color conditions (examples include "color" or "black and white"), magnification settings (example includes "100%"), and paper conditions (example includes "A4") are exemplified.

[0068] The type of information on image processing included in history buttons 109 (in other words, the items displayed on history buttons 109) may be the same or different between history buttons 109. For example, the type of information displayed on history buttons 109 may differ depending on the type of image processing. More specifically, for example, history buttons 109 whose image processing type is copy may not have an item for displaying the communication destination, whereas history buttons 109 whose image processing type is fax or email may have an item for displaying the communication destination.

[0069] By performing a predetermined operation on the history button 109, the history information corresponding to the history button 109 can be used. For example, new image processing may be performed under image processing conditions included in the history information. Also, image processing of a type included in the history information may be performed. Various specific modes for realizing such use of the history information may be used. For example, as described above, a transition to a history use screen may be made. The history use screen may be, for example, the same as or similar to the sub-screen 121. At this time, the processing conditions included in the history information may be set as the processing conditions. Then, new image processing may be performed by operating the execute button (see execute button 125) as is, or after the processing conditions are adjusted by a setting button (see setting button 131).

[0070] (1.4. Operation of image processing device related to sub-screen) In the sub-screen 121 shown in FIG. 4, a reception area 121a for receiving image processing instructions related to the selected function button 107 and a history display area 121b including a plurality of history buttons 134 each including information on image processing that has been completed in the past and is specific to the image processing corresponding to the selected function button 107 are displayed side by side.

[0071] The sub-screen 121 includes (displays) an execution button 125, a setting button 131, and a history button 134. The history button 134 includes information on image processing that has been completed in the past, specializing in the image processing corresponding to the function button 107 selected on the main screen 101 (FIG. 3). In the example shown in FIG. 4, when the function button 107 of "copy" is selected on the main screen 101 (FIG. 3), the history button 134 indicates that it includes information on image processing that has been completed in the past, specializing in "copy". The history button 134 may be displayed by using a scroll. In a mode in which a part of the history area 135 is displayed in the history display area 121b, the scroll direction (up and down in the illustrated example) is arbitrary. The setting button 131 is for confirming and setting setting items such as image processing conditions. The setting button 131 may be used for confirming and setting setting items other than processing conditions (for example, communication destination). However, in the following, processing conditions may be taken as an example without special notice. The sub-screen 121 may also include (or display) the following, for example: A title bar 127 of the sub-screen 121. A back button 133 for returning to the main screen 101.

[0072] The layout of the various parts described above is arbitrary, and FIG. 4 is merely an example. In the example of FIG. 4, generally speaking, an area (reception area 121a) in which a plurality of setting buttons 131 are arranged and an area (history display area 121b) in which a plurality of history buttons 134 are arranged are provided. In the sub-screen 121, the history display area 121b is displayed side by side with the reception area 121a. In the example of FIG. 4, the reception area 121a and the history display area 121b are arranged in the above-mentioned order from the left side in the left-right direction. The position, shape and / or area of ​​the history display area 121b may be the same as the position, shape and / or area of ​​the history display area 101b of the main screen 101 (example shown), or may be different. In any case, the above-mentioned explanation regarding the position, shape and area of ​​the history display area 101b (and the menu area 101a) may be applied to the history display area 121b (reception area 121a).

[0073] A plurality of setting buttons 131 are provided corresponding to a plurality of setting items (e.g., processing conditions), for example. When a setting button 131 is tapped, for example, a screen or window for setting the corresponding item is displayed on the operation panel 9. This allows, for example, a change from the current setting for the corresponding item.

[0074] Setting button 131 displays information indicating the type of setting item corresponding to itself. Setting button 131 may also display information indicating the setting state of the item corresponding to itself. In the illustrated example, the type of setting item is displayed above setting button 131, and the current setting state of the item is displayed below setting button 131.

[0075] As will be understood from the above explanation, the number and types of setting buttons 131 are arbitrary. In the example of Fig. 4, "paper selection", "color / black and white", "density", "reduce / enlarge", "page combination" and "single-sided / double-sided" are exemplified as setting buttons 131 when history button 109 corresponding to copying is selected. Below setting buttons 131, "A4", "color", "normal", "100%", "not set" and "single-sided" are exemplified as the current settings of these items. These are common settings, so explanations will be omitted.

[0076] The history button 134 of the sub-screen 121 includes information on image processing completed in the past, specializing in the image processing corresponding to the function button 107 selected on the main screen 101. The information on the image processing displayed on the history button 134 includes text or symbol images related to at least one of the image processing type, processing conditions, processing date and time, user name, and communication destination, similar to the history button 109 on the main screen 101. The image processing type includes at least copy, scan, and fax. In the example of FIG. 4, specializing in the selected "copy" function, the image processing type of the history button 134 is exemplified as "copy". The processing conditions include at least one of image quality and page layout. In FIG. 4, the image processing conditions include color conditions ("color" or "black and white" are exemplified) for image quality, magnification settings ("100%" or "70%" are exemplified) for page layout, and paper conditions ("A4" or "automatic" are exemplified).

[0077] The specific display mode (position, shape, area, display contents, creation and disappearance, etc.) of the history button 134 may be the same as or different from the history button 109 of the main screen 101. For example, when the "copy" function button 107 is selected and the sub-screen 121 is displayed, it is clear that the history button 134 includes information specialized for "copy", and therefore, unlike the history button 109, it does not need to include information on "copy". In any case, the above-mentioned explanation regarding the specific display mode, etc. of the history button 109 may be applied to the history button 134 as long as no contradiction arises, except that it is specialized for image processing corresponding to the selected function button 107.

[0078] Fig. 5 shows an example of a sub-screen 121 transitioned from the main screen 101 after the "FAX" function button 107 is selected on the main screen 101 of Fig. 3. The example shown in Fig. 5 shows that when the "FAX" function button 107 is selected on the main screen 101 (Fig. 3), a history button 134 specialized for "FAX" is displayed. The setting buttons 131 of the sub-screen 121 also include an address book button or a numeric keypad for inputting a fax destination.

[0079] 6 shows an example of a sub-screen 121 transitioned from the main screen 101 after the "email" function button 107 is selected on the main screen 101 of FIG. 3. The example shown in FIG. 6 shows that when the "email" function button 107 is selected on the main screen 101 (FIG. 3), a history button 134 specialized for "email" is displayed. When image data is sent in this "email" function, the image data read by the scanner 5 may be included in the e-mail sent by the communication unit 7, and the image data stored in the document box may be included in the e-mail sent by the communication unit 7. The setting buttons 131 of the sub-screen 121 also include a "document box" button for accessing the document box.

[0080] In any of the sub-screens 121, by performing a predetermined operation on the history button 134, it is possible to use the history information corresponding to the history button 134. For example, new image processing may be performed under image processing conditions included in the history information. Various specific modes may be used to realize such use of the history information. For example, when a predetermined operation is performed on the history button 134 on the sub-screen 121, the currently set processing conditions may be changed to the processing conditions included in the history information corresponding to the history button 134 on which the operation was performed. Then, new image processing may be performed by operating the execute button 125 as is, or after the processing conditions are adjusted by the setting button 131.

[0081] In the image processing device according to the first embodiment, a history button 134 (e.g., a history button for "copy") specialized for image processing corresponding to a selected function button 107 (e.g., "copy") is displayed on the sub-screen 121. This makes it possible to eliminate the inconvenience of having history buttons for multiple types of image processing mixed together and making it difficult to find the history button for the type required, thereby improving user convenience.

[0082] <Second embodiment> In the description of the second embodiment, basically, only the differences from the first embodiment will be described. Similarly, in the description of the third and fourth embodiments described later, basically, only the differences from the previously described embodiments will be described. Matters that are not specifically mentioned may be considered to be the same as the previously described embodiments or may be inferred from the previously described embodiments.

[0083] The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that it is premised on a function for authenticating a user. However, the second embodiment may be regarded as a subordinate concept of the first embodiment. Therefore, the reference numerals and the like indicating the components are common to both embodiments.

[0084] The image processing apparatus according to the second embodiment further includes an authentication management unit that grants authority regarding image processing to each user based on the result of user authentication.

[0085] The main screen 101 in the second embodiment is shown in Fig. 7. Fig. 7 shows the main screen after user authentication, and a user name 117 is displayed in a title bar 115. In the example of Fig. 7, the user name is exemplarily shown as "xxxx". The user name is also displayed in the history button 109 in the second embodiment.

[0086] The sub-screen 121 in the second embodiment is shown in Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a sub-screen (copy) to which the main screen in Fig. 7 is transitioned.

[0087] The identification information for identifying a user may be, for example, the "user name" shown as the image processing information in the description of the first embodiment. In the first embodiment, the user name is used as information displayed for the user to identify or confirm the history button 109. In the present embodiment, furthermore, the image data that is permitted to be accessed differs and the history button 109 that is displayed differs depending on the user logged in to the image processing device 1.

[0088] The "user name" may be, for example, a character string set by a user or an administrator of the image processing device 1. The image processing device 1 may assign other types of identification information to the user name and store the two in association with each other to perform database searches, etc., using the other types of identification information. In other words, the identification information (user name) used externally and the identification information used internally may be different. However, since the two can be considered conceptually to be the same, the present embodiment will be described assuming that the user name is also used internally.

[0089] Authentication is an operation for confirming whether or not a user attempting to use the image processing device 1 (attempting to log in to the image processing device 1) is a user registered in advance (from another perspective, a user corresponding to a user name). The authentication method may be various methods, for example, a publicly known method.

[0090] For example, the authentication may be performed by inputting a user name and a password via the operation panel 9. Note that in the description of this embodiment, this aspect is mainly taken as an example. For example, the authentication may be biometric authentication performed based on biometric information of the user detected by a detection unit (not shown) of the image processing device 1. Examples of the biometric information include a fingerprint or an iris. For example, the authentication may be card authentication performed based on communication between a card reader (not shown) of the image processing device 1 and an IC (Integrated Circuit) card of the user. The card authentication may be static authentication or dynamic authentication. The authentication may be performed based on information read from a storage medium (e.g., a USB memory) connected to a connector (not shown) of the image processing device 1. For example, the authentication may be performed based on communication between a communication unit 7 of the image processing device 1 and a terminal (e.g., a mobile terminal) owned by the user.

[0091] Among the authentication methods exemplified above, the authentication methods excluding the authentication via the communication unit 7 can be said to be methods in which authentication is performed by a user's input action to a user interface unit (e.g., the operation panel 9, a detection unit for detecting biometric information, a card reader or a connector) of the image processing device 1. Also, among the authentication methods exemplified above, in the authentication methods excluding the authentication by password, input of a user name can be omitted.

[0092] A substantial part of the authentication (e.g., matching) may be performed by, for example, the image processing device 1 itself (authentication management unit). However, the image processing device 1 may transmit authentication information to a server (not shown) via the communication unit 7, have the server perform matching, and use the result to grant authority to the user. In other words, the image processing device 1 (authentication management unit) need only grant authority based on the result of user authentication, and need not perform user authentication itself. At least a part of the authentication management unit may be constructed, for example, by the CPU 11 executing a program stored in the storage unit 13, and may be regarded as part of the control unit described above.

[0093] The user name and authentication information (e.g., password or biometric information) are associated with each other and stored in advance in a database of the image processing device 1 (or server) by, for example, an operation by an administrator or an individual user of the image processing device 1. Then, when an operation for authentication is performed by a user, the image processing device 1 refers to the database and performs authentication.

[0094] In the image processing device of the second embodiment, only history buttons related to image processing previously completed by a user (user name "xxxx" in FIG. 8) who has been granted authority by the authentication management unit are displayed in the history display area 121b of the sub-screen 121. That is, when the "copy" function button 107 is selected on the main screen 101 after user authentication, the sub-screen 121 after transition displays history buttons 134 specializing in the history of "copy" previously completed by that user. This configuration can further improve the convenience when the user searches for the history button he or she needs.

[0095] <Third embodiment> The third embodiment relates to fixed display (preferential display) of the history button 109 on the main screen 101 and the history button 134 on the sub screen 121. Fixed display means that, for example, when multiple history buttons 109 (or 134) are displayed, a specific history button 109 (or 134) is arranged and displayed at the top.

[0096] More specifically, in the third embodiment, when a specific history button 109 is set to be fixedly displayed on the main screen 101, the specific history button 109 (shown as a history button 134 on the sub-screen 121) is also fixedly displayed on the sub-screen 121. Also, in the third embodiment, when a specific history button 134 is set to be fixedly displayed on the sub-screen 121, the specific history button 134 (shown as a history button 109 on the main screen 101) is also fixedly displayed on the main screen 101.

[0097] In the area (a) of FIG. 9, a plurality of history buttons 109a, 109b, and 109c are displayed on the main screen 101. For example, when the image processing setting related to the history button 109c among the plurality of history buttons 109 is frequently used, the history button 109c can be set to be fixedly displayed. In the area (b) of FIG. 9, the history button 109c set to be fixedly displayed is arranged at the top. When the function button 107 of "Copy" is selected on the main screen 101 shown in the area (b) of FIG. 9, the history button 134 is displayed specially for "Copy" on the sub-screen 121 shown in FIG. 10. Furthermore, on the sub-screen 121, the history button 109c (shown as the history button 134c on the sub-screen 121) set to be fixedly displayed on the main screen 101 is fixedly displayed. The setting of the fixed display made on the main screen 101 is also reflected on the sub-screen 121, improving the user's convenience.

[0098] In addition, in the area (a) of FIG. 11, a plurality of history buttons 134a, 134c, and 134d are displayed on the sub-screen 121. For example, when the image processing setting related to the history button 134c among the plurality of history buttons 134 is frequently used, the history button 134c can be set to be fixedly displayed. In the area (b) of FIG. 11, the history button 109c set to be fixedly displayed is arranged at the top. When the "Back" button 133 is pressed on the sub-screen 121 shown in the area (b) of FIG. 11, the screen transitions to the main screen 101 shown in FIG. 12. On the main screen 101, the history button 134c (shown as the history button 109c on the main screen 101) set to be fixedly displayed on the sub-screen 121 is fixedly displayed. The setting of the fixed display made on the sub-screen 121 is also reflected on the main screen 101, improving the user's convenience.

[0099] In this way, when a specific history button is set to be fixedly displayed on either the main screen 101 or the sub-screen 121, the corresponding history button is automatically fixedly displayed on the other screen. The fixed display is maintained, for example, until the setting of the fixed display is released on either the main screen 101 or the sub-screen 121 (which may be the screen on which the fixed display setting is made, or the screen on which the fixed display is made automatically). In other words, the fixed display is maintained even if the transition between the main screen 101 and the sub-screen 121 is repeated. And when the setting of the fixed display is released on either one of the screens, the fixed display on the other screen is no longer automatically made.

[0100] After the history button 109 or 134 is set to be fixedly displayed on the main screen 101 or the sub-screen 121, when transitioning to a sub-screen 121 corresponding to an image process (e.g., FAX) different from the image process (e.g., copy) corresponding to the history button, the history button 134 (copy) set to be fixedly displayed does not need to be displayed on the sub-screen 121 (FAX). Please refer to FIG. 5 for the sub-screen 121 in this case.

[0101] Thereafter, when returning from the sub-screen 121 (FAX) to the main screen 101, the history button 109 (Copy) that has been set to be fixedly displayed may be fixedly displayed again. An example of the main screen 101 at this time is shown in FIG. 13. In the main screen 101 in FIG. 13, a history button 109f corresponding to the image processing newly performed in the sub-screen 121 (FAX) is added to the main screen 101 in FIG. 12. However, in the main screen 101 in FIG. 13, the history button 109c is fixedly displayed as in the main screen 101 in FIG. 12. Note that when the function button 107 for "Copy" is selected on this main screen 101, the history button 134c is fixedly displayed as in the operation already described (see FIG. 10).

[0102] Fixed display may be set for only one history button 109 (134), or for any number of history buttons. In the latter case, the upper limit of the number of history buttons to be fixedly displayed may be set to, for example, a number equal to or less than the number of history buttons that can be displayed in the history display area 101b or 121b. The types of images corresponding to the multiple history buttons set to be fixedly displayed may be different from each other.

[0103] For example, FIG. 14 shows an example of a screen when transitioning from the main screen 101 shown in FIG. 12 to the sub-screen 121 ("FAX") shown in FIG. 5, setting fixed display for a specific history button 134 on this sub-screen 121 ("FAX"), and then returning to the main screen 101. On the main screen 101 in FIG. 14, the history button 109g newly set to fixed display is displayed following the history button 109c previously set to fixed display. Note that FIG. 14 assumes a case where image processing corresponding to the history button 109f shown in FIG. 13 was not performed on the sub-screen 121 in FIG. 5.

[0104] Fixed display may be not only displayed at the top of multiple history buttons, but may be displayed in various other ways. In more general terms, fixed display may be, for example, a way in which a specific history button 109 or 134 is displayed at a fixed position in the history display area 101b of the main screen 101 or the history display area 121b of the sub-screen 121 (please note that this is not the history area 105 or 135), or a way in which the user can recognize it as such. A typical example is a way in which a specific history button is displayed at the beginning or end of a row of multiple history buttons displayed in the history display area.

[0105] The above-mentioned "certain position" may be the same in the history display areas 101b and 121b, for example. In this case, the "certain position" does not necessarily have to be a strictly fixed position, and may be a position that the user can recognize. For example, as in the typical example above, in both the history display areas 101b and 121b, if the first or last of the multiple display positions to which the multiple history buttons are distributed is set as a fixed display position, there is no practical problem even if there is a slight positional deviation between the history display areas 101b and 121b, or the number of history buttons that can be displayed in the history display areas 101b and 121b differs. Unlike the explanation here, the "certain position" may be different between the history display areas 101b and 121b. In addition, the "certain position" does not have to be the first or last position, and may be, for example, the center position.

[0106] As described in the first embodiment, the direction of the row of multiple history buttons is arbitrary and is not limited to the vertical direction. In addition, in a mode in which two or more history buttons can be displayed in a fixed manner, the above-mentioned "first or last" may be replaced with "the display position of two or more consecutive history buttons including the first or last". The order of two or more history buttons to be displayed in a fixed manner may be set appropriately, and may be, for example, the order in which the fixed display is set, the chronological order (oldest or newest), the order set by the user, or the order determined according to the type of image processing.

[0107] The operation for setting and canceling the pinned display may be any appropriate one. For example, as mentioned in Section 1.3.2, the pinned display may be set (or the pinned display may be cancelled if the pinned display has already been set) by performing an operation (e.g., a long tap or a double tap) on the history button that is different from the operation (e.g., a tap) when using the history information corresponding to the history button.

[0108] When the history button 109 or 134 is fixedly displayed, information to that effect may be displayed on the history button. In the examples illustrated so far, a symbol image Sy resembling a pin is displayed within the history button to indicate that the history button is fixedly displayed. In addition, the presence or absence of a fixed display may be indicated, for example, by making the frame and / or interior color of the history button different from that of other history buttons, or by making the frame shape different.

[0109] Note that the above is merely an example of the operation related to the fixed display, and other operations may be performed in addition to or instead of the above operations. For example, the fixed display may be released under a condition (e.g., a new user logs in) different from an operation that directly instructs the release. Also, for example, the setting and release of the fixed display may be performed separately for the main screen 101 and the sub-screen 121, unlike the present embodiment, or the setting of the fixed display may be performed commonly for the main screen 101 and the sub-screen 121, while the release may be performed separately.

[0110] <Fourth embodiment> In the fourth embodiment, when the function button 107 selected on the main screen 101 relates to "fax" or "email" (i.e., communication), when a "communication destination" (also called "destination" or "access information") is entered on the sub-screen 121, only the history button 134 (i.e., a history button specialized for a specific communication partner) related to the entered "communication destination" is displayed in the history display area 121b.

[0111] 15 shows the sub-screen 121 when "FAX" is selected on the main screen 101. The sub-screen 121 displays a history button 134a with a destination of "000-000-1111", a history button 134b with a destination of "000-000-2222", and a history button 134c with a destination of "000-000-3333".

[0112] Area (b) of Fig. 15 shows the sub-screen 121 in a state where "000-000-1111" has been entered in "Destination". By entering "000-000-1111" in "Destination", only history buttons 134a, 134d, and 134e for the destination "000-000-1111" are displayed in the history display area 121b. By displaying only the history buttons 134 related to the entered "Destination", the history buttons 134 are narrowed down, improving user convenience.

[0113] 16 shows the sub-screen 121 when "Email" is selected on the main screen 101. The sub-screen 121 displays a history button 134a with a destination of "xxx@xx.com", a history button 134b with a destination of "yyy@yy.com", and a history button 134c with a destination of "zzz@zz.com".

[0114] Area (b) of Fig. 16 shows the sub-screen 121 in a state where "xxx@xx.com" has been entered in "Destination". By entering "xxx@xx.com" in "Destination", only history buttons 134a, 134d, and 134e for the destination "xxx@xx.com" are displayed in the history display area 121b. By displaying only the history buttons 134 related to the entered "Destination", the history buttons 134 are narrowed down, improving user convenience. [Explanation of symbols]

[0115] 1: image processing device, 9: operation panel, 101: main screen, 101a: menu area, 101b: history display area (second history display area), 107: function buttons, 121: sub-screen, 121a: reception area, 121b: history display area (first history display area), 134: history button

Claims

1. a main screen having a menu area in which a plurality of function buttons corresponding to types of image processing are arranged; a sub-screen which is switched from the main screen after one of the function buttons is selected and has a reception area for receiving an instruction for image processing related to the selected function button; An image processing device in which a first history display area is displayed on the sub-screen alongside the reception area, the first history display area displaying a plurality of history buttons including information on image processing completed in the past, the history buttons being specialized for image processing corresponding to a selected function button.

2. The image processing device according to claim 1, wherein the main screen includes a second history display area, which displays a plurality of history buttons containing information on image processing that has been completed in the past for multiple types of image processing corresponding to the function buttons in the menu area, alongside the menu area.

3. an authentication management unit that grants authority regarding image processing to each user based on a result of user authentication; The image processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the first history display area displays only history buttons relating to image processing previously completed by users authorized by the authentication management unit.

4. It is possible to set the history button selected by the user to be displayed permanently.

3. The image processing device according to claim 2, wherein when a specific history button is set to be fixedly displayed on either one of the main screen or the sub-screen, a corresponding history button is automatically fixedly displayed on the other screen.

5. When one of the function buttons is selected to transition to a first sub-screen, which is one of the plurality of sub-screens, if image processing corresponding to the first sub-screen and image processing corresponding to a history button set to be displayed in a fixed manner are different, the history button set to be displayed in a fixed manner is not displayed on the first sub-screen. The image processing device according to claim 4.

6. When returning from the first sub-screen to the main screen, the history button set to be fixedly displayed is fixedly displayed again on the main screen. The image processing device according to claim 5 .

7. When returning to the main screen after a setting is made to display a specific history button in a fixed manner on the first sub screen, both the history button that was set to be displayed in a fixed manner before transitioning to the first sub screen and the history button that was set to be displayed in a fixed manner on the first sub screen are displayed in a fixed manner on the main screen. The image processing device according to claim 6.

8. 5. The image processing device according to claim 4, wherein a plurality of history buttons are displayed in a row, and the history button set to be displayed fixedly is arranged at the beginning or end of the row.

9. 5. The image processing device according to claim 4, wherein when the history button is displayed in a fixed state, information to the effect that the history button is displayed in a fixed state is displayed on the history button.

10. 2 . The image processing device according to claim 1 , wherein when the sub-screen relates to communication, when access information for a specific communication partner is input, only a history button specialized for the specific communication partner is displayed in the first history display area.

11. 11. The image processing device according to claim 1, wherein the information on the image processing displayed on the history button includes text or a symbol image relating to at least one of the type of image processing, processing conditions, processing date and time, user name, and communication destination.

12. The image processing apparatus according to claim 11 , wherein the processing conditions include at least one of image quality and page layout.

13. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the types of image processing include at least copy, scan, and fax.

Images