Printing System, Information Processing Apparatus, Control Program, and Control Method

Abstract

To make it possible to eliminate the effort involved in solving a problem when a printer driver is installed.SOLUTION: A printing system (10) comprises an image forming apparatus (12) and an information processing apparatus (14). Furthermore, the image forming apparatus stores custom data indicating setting values of printing conditions that can be realized by the image forming apparatus itself. The information processing apparatus comprises a CPU (60), and the CPU acquires the custom data stored in the image forming apparatus into the information processing apparatus and sets standard printing conditions in a printer driver in accordance with the custom data.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a printing system, an information processing apparatus, a control program, and a control method, and more particularly, for example, to a printing system, an information processing apparatus, a control program, and a control method capable of installing a printer driver.

Background Art

[0002] An example of this type of background art is disclosed in Patent Document 1. In the technique disclosed in this Patent Document 1, when a printer driver is installed on a client PC, customization data indicating a setting pattern of printing conditions previously generated by a customization tool in the client PC is stored in the registry of the client PC, and user operations are received via a GUI (Graphical User Interface) in which printing conditions frequently used by the user are preset according to this customization data.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the background art, the standard values of printing conditions in the printer driver are freely set by a customization tool. Therefore, in the printer driver installed in the information processing apparatus, the standard printing conditions are freely set. However, the standard printing conditions may correspond to characteristics of printed matter that cannot be realized by the image forming apparatus. When an image is printed based on this standard printing condition, an error may occur, or printed matter may be discharged based on printing conditions different from the user's intention, causing inconvenience to the user. Therefore, it takes time to eliminate the inconvenience.

[0005] Therefore, the main object of the present invention is to provide a novel printing system, information processing apparatus, control program, and control method.

[0006] Another object of the present invention is to provide a printing system, information processing apparatus, control program, and control method that can omit the trouble of resolving inconveniences when a printer driver is installed.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] First Embodiment A printing system including an image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus, wherein the image forming apparatus includes a first communication unit that communicates with the information processing apparatus, and a first storage unit that stores a custom value indicated by stam data as a set value of printing conditions, and the information processing apparatus includes a second communication unit that communicates with the image forming apparatus, an installation unit that installs a printer driver for controlling the image forming apparatus, a first display unit that displays a selection screen for selecting an image forming apparatus as an acquisition destination for acquiring a set value when the printer driver is installed by the installation unit, a data acquisition unit that acquires a set value from the selected image forming apparatus when the image forming apparatus is selected on the selection screen, and a setting unit that sets a standard value of printing conditions in the printer driver according to the set value acquired by the data acquisition unit when the image forming apparatus is selected on the selection screen, and sets a standard value of printing conditions in the printer driver according to a predetermined original value when the image forming apparatus is not selected on the selection screen. A control method in a printing system including an image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus according to a second embodiment. In the image forming apparatus, a first communication step of communicating with the information processing apparatus and a first storage step of storing a custom value indicated by custom data as a set value of a printing condition are executed. In the information processing apparatus, a second communication step of communicating with the image forming apparatus, an installation step of installing a printer driver for controlling the image forming apparatus, a first display step of displaying a selection screen for selecting an image forming apparatus as an acquisition destination for acquiring a set value when the printer driver is installed in the installation step, a data acquisition step of acquiring a set value from the selected image forming apparatus when the image forming apparatus is selected on the selection screen, and a setting step of setting a standard value of a printing condition in the printer driver according to the set value acquired in the data acquisition step when the image forming apparatus is selected on the selection screen, and setting a standard value of a printing condition in the printer driver according to a predetermined original value when the image forming apparatus is not selected on the selection screen.

[0010] A printing system according to a third embodiment includes an image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus. The image forming apparatus includes a first communication unit that communicates with the information processing apparatus and a first storage unit that stores a custom value indicated by custom data as a set value of a printing condition. The information processing apparatus includes a second communication unit that communicates with the image forming apparatus, an installation unit that installs a printer driver for controlling the image forming apparatus, a first display unit that displays a selection screen for selecting an image forming apparatus as an acquisition destination for acquiring a set value when the printer driver is installed in the installation unit, a data acquisition unit that acquires a set value from the selected image forming apparatus when the image forming apparatus is selected on the selection screen, a second storage unit that stores the set value acquired by the data acquisition unit, and a setting unit that sets a standard value of a printing condition in the printer driver according to the set value stored in the second storage unit when the image forming apparatus is selected on the selection screen. When the image forming apparatus detects the removal of the optional device, After a predetermined time has elapsedThe printing system further includes a second determination unit that determines whether the custom value is a custom value that cannot be realized by the own device. If the first storage unit determines, based on the determination by the second determination unit, that the custom value is a custom value that cannot be realized by the own device, the first storage unit changes the custom value to a custom value that can be realized by the own device and stores the changed custom value as a set value. A fourth embodiment is a control method for a printing system including an image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus. In the image forming apparatus, a first communication step of communicating with the information processing apparatus and a first storage step of storing a custom value indicated by custom data as a set value of a printing condition are executed. In the information processing apparatus, a second communication step of communicating with the image forming apparatus, an installation step of installing a printer driver for controlling the image forming apparatus, a first display step of displaying a selection screen for selecting an image forming apparatus as an acquisition destination for acquiring a set value when the printer driver is installed in the installation step, a data acquisition step of acquiring the set value from the selected image forming apparatus when the image forming apparatus is selected on the selection screen, a second storage step of storing the set value acquired in the data acquisition step, and a setting step of setting a standard value of a printing condition in the printer driver according to the set value stored in the second storage step when the image forming apparatus is selected on the selection screen are executed. The image forming apparatus further executes a second determination step of determining whether or not the custom value is a custom value that cannot be realized by the apparatus itself after a predetermined time has elapsed when the removal of the option apparatus is detected. In the first storage step, if it is determined by the second determination step that the custom value is a custom value that cannot be realized by the apparatus itself, the custom value is changed to a custom value that can be realized by the apparatus itself, and the changed custom value is stored as the set value. This is a control method in a printing system.

Advantages of the Invention

[0019] According to this invention, when the printer driver is installed, the trouble associated with resolving inconveniences can be omitted.

[0020] The above object, other objects, features, and advantages of this invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the embodiments with reference to the drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021]

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[0022] [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a printing system 10 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the printing system 10 includes an image forming apparatus 12 and a plurality of information processing apparatuses 14.

[0023] The image forming apparatus 12 is a multifunction machine having a copying function (copier function), a printer function, a scanner function, a facsimile function, etc., but is also applicable to other image forming apparatuses such as a printing apparatus (printer).

[0024] The information processing apparatuses 14 are a desktop PC, a notebook (laptop) PC, a tablet PC, etc.

[0025] The image forming apparatus 12 and the plurality of information processing apparatuses 14 are connected via a network 16 configured by the Internet. Note that the network 16 may be configured by a telephone network (public telephone network or mobile phone communication network) and the Internet. Also, the image forming apparatus 12 and the information processing apparatus 14 may be directly connected.

[0026] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the image forming apparatus 12 shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 2, the image forming apparatus 12 includes a CPU 20. The CPU 20 is connected via a bus 22 to a RAM 24, a storage unit 26, a display control circuit 28, a touch panel control circuit 30, an image reading unit 36, an image forming unit 38, a communication unit 40, a detection unit 42, and a conveyance unit 44.

[0027] The image forming apparatus 12 also includes a display 32 and a touch panel 34. The display control circuit 28 is connected to the display 32, and the touch panel control circuit 30 is connected to the touch panel 34.

[0028] The CPU 20 controls the overall operation of the image forming apparatus 12. The RAM 24 is used as a work area and a buffer area for the CPU 20.

[0029] The storage unit 26 is the main storage device of the image forming apparatus 12, and a non-volatile memory such as an HDD and an EPPROM is used. Also, the storage unit 26 may be configured to include the RAM 24. The storage unit 26 stores data regarding a control program for the CPU 20 to control the operations of the respective parts of the image forming apparatus 12, data of images (display images) for various screens, and data necessary for the execution of the control program, etc.

[0030] The display control circuit 28 includes a GPU, a VRAM, etc. Under the instruction of the CPU 20, the GPU generates a display image for displaying various screens on the display 32 in the VRAM using the image generation data 404b (see FIG. 7) stored in the RAM 24, and outputs the generated display image to the display 32. As the display 32, for example, an LCD or an EL (Electro-Luminescence) display can be used. This also applies to the display 72 (see FIG. 3) described later.

[0031] The touch panel control circuit 30 applies necessary voltages to the touch panel 34 and detects a touch operation (user operation) within the touch effective range of the touch panel 34, and outputs touch coordinate data indicating the position of the touch input to the CPU 20.

[0032] The touch panel 34 is a general-purpose touch panel, and any type such as a capacitance type, an electromagnetic induction type, a resistive film type, an infrared type, etc. can be used. As the touch panel 34, a capacitance type touch panel is used, and the touch panel 34 is provided on the display surface of the display 32. However, a touch panel display in which the display 32 and the touch panel 34 are integrally formed may also be used.

[0033] The image reading unit 36 includes a light source, a plurality of mirrors, an imaging lens, a line sensor, etc. This image reading unit 36 guides the reflected light reflected from the surface of the document to the imaging lens by a plurality of mirrors. Then, the reflected light is imaged on the light receiving element of the line sensor by the imaging lens. In the line sensor, the luminance or chromaticity of the reflected light imaged on the light receiving element is detected, and the luminance or chromaticity of the reflected light imaged on the light receiving element is detected, and a read image based on the image on the surface of the document is generated, thereby inputting the read image. Also, a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) etc. is used for the line sensor.

[0034] The image forming unit 38 includes a photoreceptor drum, a charging device, an exposure device, a developing device, a transfer device, a fixing device, etc., and forms an image on a recording medium using the dry electrophotographic method. An input image is used as the image (output image) to be formed on the recording medium. The input image includes a read image and an image (received image) sent from an external information processing device or the like. Furthermore, the recording medium is not limited to recording paper made of paper, and sheets other than paper such as OHP films are also used.

[0035] Also, the image forming unit 38 may include four photoreceptor drums, four charging devices, four developing devices, four intermediate transfer rollers, four cleaning devices, etc. for each of the colors Y (yellow), M (magenta), C (cyan), and K (black). In this case, an image forming station including a photoreceptor drum, a charging device, a developing device, an intermediate transfer roller, and a cleaning device is configured, and color image printing becomes possible.

[0036] The communication unit 40 includes a communication circuit for connecting to the communication module or the network 16 by wire or wirelessly, and performs communication via the network 16 according to the instruction of the CPU 20. As an example, the communication unit 40 transmits and receives data according to a wired communication method compliant with a communication standard such as Ethernet (registered trademark) and a wireless communication method compliant with a communication standard such as IEEE 802.11.

[0037] Also, the communication unit 40 has an external storage medium mounting unit (not shown) on which various media as external storage media (not shown) can be mounted, and transmits and receives data to and from the media mounted on this external storage medium mounting unit. Examples of the media mentioned here include semiconductor media such as SD (Secure Digital) memory cards and USB (Universal Serial Bus) memories, as well as disk media such as CDs (Compact Discs) and DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs).

[0038] The detection unit 42 includes a circuit or the like for detecting the attachment of the option device to the image forming apparatus 12 and the removal of the option device from the image forming apparatus 12.

[0039] The option device is a device for processing printed matter. For example, a punch unit for punching holes in printed matter, a staple unit for stapling printed matter, a paper folding unit for folding printed matter, and the like can be mentioned.

[0040] In addition, the detection of the removal and attachment of the option device is determined based on the presence or absence of communication with the option device. Note that the removal and attachment of the option device may be detected based on the detection results of sensors such as an optical sensor and a distance sensor. Since the detection method of the removal and attachment of the option device is well-known, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0041] The conveyance unit 44 includes a conveyance path and conveyance rollers or the like for conveying the paper placed on a paper feed cassette and a manual feed tray (not shown) through a transfer device and a fixing device or the like included in the image forming unit 38 to the paper discharge tray.

[0042] In addition, the conveyance unit 44 may include a conveyance path or the like for returning the paper on which single-sided printing has been performed to the conveyance path on the upstream side in the paper conveyance direction of the transfer device and the fixing device or the like. In this case, printing on both sides of the paper becomes possible.

[0043] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the information processing apparatus 14 shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 3, the information processing apparatus 14 includes a CPU 60. The CPU 60 is connected to a RAM 64, a storage unit 66, a display control circuit 68, an operation unit control circuit 70, and a communication unit 76 via a bus 62.

[0044] In addition, the information processing apparatus 14 includes a display 72 and an operation unit 74, the display control circuit 68 is connected to the display 72, and the operation unit control circuit 70 is connected to the operation unit 74.

[0045] The CPU 60 controls the overall operation of the information processing apparatus 14. The RAM 64 is used as a work area and a buffer area for the CPU 60.

[0046] The storage unit 66 is the main storage device of the information processing apparatus 14, and non-volatile memories such as an HDD and an EPPROM are used. Also, the storage unit 66 may be configured to include the RAM 64. In the storage unit 66, data regarding a control program for the CPU 60 to control the operations of the respective parts of the information processing apparatus 14, data of images (display images) regarding various screens, data necessary for the execution of the control program, a printer driver, etc. are appropriately stored.

[0047] The display control circuit 68 includes a GPU, a VRAM, etc. Under the instruction of the CPU 60, the GPU generates a display image for displaying various screens on the display 72 using the image generation data 504b (see FIG. 8) stored in the RAM 64 in the VRAM, and outputs the generated display image to the display 72.

[0048] The operation unit control circuit 70 outputs a signal or operation data corresponding to an input operation (user operation) to the operation unit 74 to the CPU 60.

[0049] Also, as the operation unit 74, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, etc. are used. When a touch panel is used as the operation unit 74, the touch panel is provided on the display surface of the display 72. Also, a touch panel display in which the display 72 and the operation unit 74 are integrated may be used.

[0050] Also, the communication unit 76 performs communication via the network 16 according to the instruction of the CPU 60, similar to the communication unit 40. Also, in particular, for example, the communication unit 76 transmits print image data according to the instruction of the CPU 60.

[0051] Note that the electrical configurations of the image forming apparatus 12 shown in FIG. 2 and the information processing apparatus 14 shown in FIG. 3 are merely examples, and are not necessarily limited thereto.

[0052] In the printing system 10 as described above, an information processing apparatus 14 and an image forming apparatus 12 are connected, and when a predetermined operation is received, a printer driver is installed in the information processing apparatus 14.

[0053] Note that the printer driver is a device driver of the image forming apparatus 12. Therefore, it can be said that the image forming apparatus 12 is an image forming apparatus 12 that can be controlled by the printer driver.

[0054] Furthermore, in the printer driver installed in the information processing apparatus 14, standard printing conditions (standard printing conditions) are set. Note that the printing conditions are conditions that are reflected in the operation of the image forming apparatus 12 during printing. The characteristics of the printed matter change according to the operation of the image forming apparatus 12 during printing. Therefore, the characteristics of the printed matter change according to the printing conditions. That is, the printing conditions correspond to the characteristics of the printed matter.

[0055] Also, the printing conditions include a plurality of setting items related to printing (related to the operation of the image forming apparatus 12 during printing) (hereinafter simply referred to as "setting items"). And the operation of the image forming apparatus 12 is determined by the set values of each setting item. That is, the characteristics of the printed matter are determined by the set values of each setting item.

[0056] In the printer driver, standard set values (standard values) are set for the set values of each setting item. The standard value of each setting item can also be referred to as the standard value of the printing conditions. Note that when the user gives a printing instruction, the set values of each setting item can be arbitrarily changed from the standard values.

[0057] Also, examples of the setting items include color mode, single-sided printing / double-sided printing, paper size, punching, stapling, and paper folding.

[0058] The color mode is a setting item related to the color of the image, that is, the color of the image printed on the paper. For example, "black and white (monochrome)" and "color" can be set for the color mode.

[0059] When the color mode is set to "black and white", a black and white image is printed on the paper. Also, when the color mode is set to "color", a color image is printed on the paper.

[0060] Single-sided printing / double-sided printing is a setting item related to the side of the paper on which the image is printed. Single-sided printing / double-sided printing can be set to, for example, "single-sided printing" and "double-sided printing".

[0061] When single-sided printing / double-sided printing is set to "single-sided printing", the image is printed on one side of the paper. Also, when single-sided printing / double-sided printing is set to "double-sided printing", the image is printed on both sides of the paper.

[0062] The paper size is a setting item related to the size of the paper on which the image is printed. The paper size can be set to, for example, "A4", "A3", "B5", etc.

[0063] When the paper size is set to "A4", an A4-sized paper image is printed. The same applies when set to other sizes.

[0064] Punching is a setting item related to the presence or absence of punching on the printed matter. Punching can be set to, for example, "no processing" and "with processing". When punching is set to "no processing", no punching is performed on the printed matter. When punching is set to "with processing", punching is performed at a predetermined position on the printed matter.

[0065] Staple is a setting item related to whether staple processing is applied to the printed matter. Staple can be set, for example, to "No processing", "With processing (stapled at one place)", or "With processing (stapled at two places)". When staple is set to "No processing", no staple processing is applied to the printed matter. When staple is set to "With processing (stapled at one place)", staple processing is applied to a predetermined position of the printed matter. When staple is set to "With processing (stapled at two places)", staple processing is applied to two predetermined places of the printed matter.

[0066] Paper folding is a setting item related to whether paper folding processing is applied to the printed matter. Paper folding can be set, for example, to "No processing", "With processing (folded in two)", or "With processing (folded in three)". When paper folding is set to "No processing", no paper folding processing is applied to the printed matter. When paper folding is set to "With processing (folded in two)", folding processing is applied to the printed matter at the position where the length of the paper in the longitudinal direction of the printed matter is bisected. When paper folding is set to "With processing (folded in three)", folding processing is applied to the printed matter at the position where the length in the longitudinal direction of the printed matter is trisected.

[0067] Note that actually, setting values corresponding to the setting contents are set. For example, for the color mode, setting values corresponding to "Black and white (monochrome)" and "Color" can be set.

[0068] For setting the standard printing conditions, original data indicating the setting values (original values) predetermined by the developer is used. Hereinafter, a series of processes until the standard printing conditions are set according to the original data will be described.

[0069] The original data and the printer driver, etc. are stored in a predetermined file in a data format. When the information processing apparatus 14 receives a predetermined operation, the original data and the printer driver, etc. are expanded.

[0070] Also, in response to the deployment of the original data and the printer driver, etc., the installation of the printer driver is started, and the original data is stored in the information processing apparatus 14.

[0071] Furthermore, when the installation of the printer driver is completed, standard printing conditions in the printer driver are set according to the original data.

[0072] That is, the standard values of the printing conditions in the printer driver are set according to the original values. Specifically, the standard values of each setting item are set according to the original values.

[0073] For example, in the first embodiment, after the standard printing conditions in the printer driver are set, in response to the information processing apparatus 14 receiving a predetermined operation, an operation screen corresponding to the printer driver is displayed on the display 72.

[0074] The operation screen here is a condition setting screen 100 (see FIG. 4) for setting printing conditions. However, the condition setting screen 100 displayed on the display 72 is a condition setting screen 100 corresponding to the standard printing conditions.

[0075] FIG. 4 is an example of the condition setting screen 100. In the example shown in FIG. 4, for example, the standard value of the color mode corresponds to the set value corresponding to "monochrome".

[0076] Also, it is possible to use custom data instead of the original data for setting the standard printing conditions. Note that the custom data is data indicating setting values (custom values) arbitrarily determined by a customization tool.

[0077] However, in order to set the standard printing conditions using custom data, when the printer driver is installed, in addition to the original data, it is necessary to store the custom data in the information processing apparatus 14.

[0078] Original data and custom data are stored in the information processing apparatus 14, and when the installation of the printer driver is completed, standard printing conditions in the printer driver are set according to the custom data.

[0079] However, in the customization tool, since custom values can be freely set, the standard printing conditions may correspond to characteristics of printed matter that cannot be realized by the image forming apparatus 12.

[0080] Also, when the standard printing conditions correspond to characteristics of printed matter that cannot be realized by the image forming apparatus 12, when an image is printed based on the standard printing conditions, inconveniences occur for the user.

[0081] For example, an error occurs. Also, printed matter is discharged based on printing conditions different from the printing conditions intended by the user.

[0082] Note that since the printing conditions correspond to the characteristics of the printed matter, the standard printing conditions corresponding to the characteristics of the printed matter that cannot be realized by the image forming apparatus 12 can also be said to be standard printing conditions that cannot be realized by the image forming apparatus 12.

[0083] Also, the standard printing conditions corresponding to the characteristics of the printed matter that can be realized by the image forming apparatus 12 can also be said to be standard printing conditions that can be realized by the image forming apparatus 12.

[0084] Furthermore, the standard printing conditions are freely set according to the custom values. That is, the custom values can also be classified into either custom values that can be realized by the image forming apparatus 12 or custom values that cannot be realized by the image forming apparatus 12.

[0085] In this embodiment, in order to avoid such inconveniences, the standard value of the printing conditions in the printer driver, that is, the standard printing conditions, are set according to the custom values that can be realized by the image forming apparatus 12.

[0086] First, in the printing system 10, the image forming apparatus 12 is made to store custom data in advance.

[0087] However, the custom value indicated by the custom data is a custom value that can be realized by the image forming apparatus 12.

[0088] That is, in this embodiment, the standard printing conditions set according to the custom value stored in a certain image forming apparatus 12 are standard printing conditions that can be realized by the image forming apparatus 12.

[0089] Furthermore, in the image forming apparatus 12, when custom data is input from the outside to the image forming apparatus 12 via the communication unit 40, the custom data is stored in the image forming apparatus 12.

[0090] For example, in response to the connection of a medium storing custom data to the image forming apparatus 12, the custom data stored in the medium is input to the image forming apparatus 12.

[0091] However, when the custom data input to the image forming apparatus 12 indicates a custom value that cannot be realized by the image forming apparatus 12, the custom value that cannot be realized by the image forming apparatus 12 is changed to a custom value that can be realized by the image forming apparatus 12 and then stored in the image forming apparatus 12. Note that when the custom value indicates a custom value that can be realized by the image forming apparatus 12, the custom value is not changed.

[0092] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the relationship between the custom data and the image forming apparatus 12. Note that the custom data A is the custom data before being stored in the image forming apparatus 12, and the custom data B is the custom data after being stored in the image forming apparatus 12.

[0093] Also, the image forming apparatus A is an image forming apparatus 12 capable of printing color images and monochrome images, and the image forming apparatus B is an image forming apparatus 12 capable of printing monochrome images.

[0094] As shown in FIG. 5, for example, custom data indicating a custom value corresponding to "color" is input to the image forming apparatus A and the image forming apparatus B.

[0095] Since the image forming apparatus A is an image forming apparatus 12 capable of printing color images and monochrome images, the custom data input to the image forming apparatus A is stored in the image forming apparatus A without the custom value being changed.

[0096] On the other hand, since the image forming apparatus B is an image forming apparatus 12 capable of printing monochrome images, the custom data input to the image forming apparatus B is stored in the image forming apparatus B after the custom value is changed. Specifically, the custom value corresponding to "color" is changed to the custom value corresponding to "monochrome".

[0097] Among the custom data stored in the image forming apparatus 12, the custom data to be used is the latest custom data. Also, the unused custom data may be appropriately deleted from the image forming apparatus 12.

[0098] Furthermore, in the image forming apparatus 12 of the present embodiment, after the option device is removed from the image forming apparatus 12, when a predetermined time (for example, 3 minutes) has elapsed, it is determined whether the custom value indicated by the custom data is a custom value that can (cannot) be realized by the image forming apparatus 12.

[0099] When the custom data indicates a custom value that cannot be realized by the image forming apparatus 12, the custom value is changed as described above. Also, when the custom data indicates a custom value that can be realized by the image forming apparatus 12, the custom value is not changed.

[0100] Note that if the option device is removed from the image forming apparatus 12 due to maintenance and error resolution, etc., there is a possibility that the option device will be attached to the image forming apparatus 12 again.

[0101] For example, if the custom value is changed immediately after the option device is removed from the image forming apparatus 12, it will be troublesome to return the custom value to the state before the change after the option device is attached to the image forming apparatus 12.

[0102] Therefore, in this embodiment, when a predetermined time (for example, 3 minutes) has elapsed after the optional device is removed from the image forming apparatus 12, the custom value is appropriately changed.

[0103] Note that the custom value may be changed immediately after the optional device is removed from the image forming apparatus 12. However, if the removed optional device is attached to the image forming apparatus 12 before a predetermined time (for example, 3 minutes) has elapsed, the custom value is changed to the custom value before the optional device was removed. Next, a series of processes until the standard printing conditions are set according to the custom data will be described.

[0104] In the information processing apparatus 14, when the installation of the printer driver is started, the acquisition destination of the custom data is selected. However, the image forming apparatus 12 that can be controlled by the printer driver is set as the acquisition destination.

[0105] Specifically, the image forming apparatus 12 that is communicably connected to the information processing apparatus 14 and operates in response to an instruction from the printer driver is set as the acquisition destination.

[0106] For example, when the installation of the printer driver is started, an acquisition destination selection screen 120, which is a screen for selecting the acquisition destination of the custom data, is displayed on the display 72.

[0107] FIG. 6 is an example of the acquisition destination selection screen 120. The acquisition destination selection screen 120 is provided with a device selection key 122 and a cancel key 124.

[0108] The device selection key 122 is provided for selecting the image forming apparatus 12 that stores the custom data among the image forming apparatuses 12 that can be controlled by the printer driver.

[0109] The device selection key 122 is assigned a function of acquiring custom data from a predetermined acquisition destination.

[0110] When the device selection key 122 is operated, the acquisition destination corresponding to the operated device selection key 122 of the information processing device 14, that is, custom data is acquired from the image forming device 12 to the information processing device 14.

[0111] In addition, the custom data acquired by the information processing device 14 is stored in the information processing device 14. Therefore, the standard printing conditions are set according to the custom data.

[0112] Specifically, an output instruction (output command) for outputting custom data is transmitted to the image forming device 12, which is the acquisition destination of the custom data.

[0113] In response to receiving the output command, the image forming device 12 outputs (transmits) the custom data to the transmission source of the output command.

[0114] The cancel key 124 is provided to cancel the acquisition of custom data.

[0115] A function of ending the selection of the acquisition destination of the custom data is assigned to the cancel key 124.

[0116] When the cancel key 124 is operated, the acquisition of custom data is canceled. Therefore, the standard printing conditions are set according to the original data.

[0117] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the memory map 400 of the RAM 24 of the image forming device 12 shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 7, the RAM 24 includes a program storage area 402 and a data storage area 404. Further, in the program storage area 402 of the RAM 24, a control program of the image forming device 12 is stored as an example of an information processing program.

[0118] The control program of the image forming apparatus 12 includes an operation detection program 402a, an image generation program 402b, a display program 402c, a communication program 402d, an input determination program 402e, a detection program 402f, a time determination program 402g, a custom value determination program 402h, a custom value change program 402i, and a data storage program 402j.

[0119] The operation detection program 402a is a program for detecting operation detection data corresponding to operations on each operation unit of the image forming apparatus 12. For example, when the touch panel 34 is touched, the CPU 20 acquires, according to the operation detection program 402a, the touch coordinate data output from the touch panel 34 as operation data 404a to be described later, and stores it in the buffer. Also, when a hardware button or key provided in the image forming apparatus 12 is pressed or operated, the CPU 20 acquires, according to the operation detection program 402a, the operation data 404a due to the pressing or operation of the button or key, and stores it in the buffer.

[0120] The image generation program 402b is a program for controlling the GPU to generate a display image for displaying various screens using image generation data 404b to be described later.

[0121] Also, the display program 402c is a program for outputting the display image generated according to the image generation program 402b to the display 32.

[0122] The communication program 402d is a program for controlling the communication unit 40 and communicating with an external device.

[0123] Also, the communication program 402d is a program for controlling the communication unit 40 and communicating with a medium.

[0124] The input determination program 402e is a program for determining whether custom data has been input to the own machine (own device) according to the communication program 402d.

[0125] The detection program 402f is a program for controlling the detection unit 42 to detect that the option device has been removed from the image forming apparatus 12.

[0126] Also, the detection program 402f is also a program for detecting that the option device has been attached to the image forming apparatus 12.

[0127] The time determination program 402g is a program for determining whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the removal of the option device was detected according to the detection program 402f.

[0128] The custom value determination program 402h is a program for referring to the set value data 404d in response to the input of custom data to the image forming apparatus 12 and determining whether the custom value indicated by the custom data is a custom value that can be realized by the own machine.

[0129] Also, the custom value determination program 402h is also a program for referring to the set value data 404d in response to the input of custom data to the image forming apparatus 12 and determining whether the custom value indicated by the custom data is a custom value that cannot be realized by the own machine.

[0130] Furthermore, the custom value determination program 402h is also a program for determining whether the custom value indicated by the custom data is a custom value that can be realized by the own machine when it is determined that a predetermined time has elapsed according to the time determination program 402g.

[0131] Furthermore, the custom value determination program 402h is also a program for determining whether the custom value indicated by the custom data is a custom value that cannot be realized by the own machine when it is determined that a predetermined time has elapsed according to the time determination program 402g.

[0132] The custom value change program 402i is a program for changing a custom value that cannot be realized by the own device to a custom value that can be realized by the own device based on the set value data 404d when it is determined according to the custom value determination program 402h that the custom value indicated by the custom data cannot be realized by the own device.

[0133] The data storage program 402j is a program for storing custom data when custom data is input to the image forming apparatus 12 and it is determined according to the custom value determination program 402h that the custom value indicated by the custom data can be realized by the own device.

[0134] Also, the data storage program 402j is a program for storing custom data when custom data is input to the image forming apparatus 12 and the custom value indicated by the custom data is changed according to the custom value change program 402i.

[0135] Although illustration is omitted, other programs necessary for controlling the image forming apparatus 12 and the like are also stored in the program storage area 402.

[0136] Operation data 404a, image generation data 404b, custom data 404c, and set value data 404d are stored in the data storage area 404.

[0137] The operation data 404a is operation data detected according to the operation detection program 402a and is stored in time series. Note that the operation data 404a is deleted after being used for the processing of the CPU 20.

[0138] The image generation data 404b is data including polygon data, texture data, etc. for generating a display image. Also, the image generation data 404b includes image data corresponding to software keys and the like.

[0139] The custom data 404c is data indicating custom values stored in the own device. The set value data 404d is data indicating set values that can be realized by the own device.

[0140] Although illustration is omitted, other data necessary for the execution of the information processing program is stored in the data storage area 404, and flags and counters (timers) necessary for the execution of the information processing program are also provided.

[0141] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the memory map 500 of the RAM 64 of the information processing apparatus 14 shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 7, the RAM 64 includes a program storage area 502 and a data storage area 504. Further, in the program storage area 502 of the RAM 64, a control program of the information processing apparatus 14 is stored as an example of the information processing program.

[0142] The control program of the information processing apparatus 14 includes an operation detection program 502a, an image generation program 502b, a display program 502c, a communication program 502d, an installation program 502e, an acquisition destination selection program 502f, a selection determination program 502g, an acquisition program 502h, a storage program 502i, a setting program 502j, and a driver program 502k.

[0143] The operation detection program 502a is a program for detecting operation detection data corresponding to operations on each operation unit of the information processing apparatus 14. For example, when the operation unit 74 is operated, the CPU 60 acquires, as operation data 504a described later, the touch coordinate data output from the operation unit 74 in accordance with the operation detection program 502a and stores it in a buffer. Further, when a button or key of hardware other than the operation unit 74 is pressed or operated, the CPU 60 acquires operation data 504a due to the pressing or operation of the button or key in accordance with the operation detection program 502a and stores it in a buffer.

[0144] The image generation program 502b is a program for controlling the GPU to generate a display image for displaying various screens using the image generation data 504b described later.

[0145] Also, the display program 502c is a program for outputting the display image generated according to the image generation program 502b to the display 72.

[0146] The communication program 502d is a program for controlling the communication unit 76 and communicating with an external device.

[0147] The installation program 502e is a program for installing a printer driver.

[0148] The acquisition destination selection program 502f is a program for selecting an acquisition destination of custom data according to user operations when a printer driver is installed according to the installation program 502e.

[0149] The selection determination program 502g is a program for determining whether an acquisition destination of custom data has been selected according to the acquisition destination selection program 502f.

[0150] The acquisition program 502h is a program for acquiring custom data from the acquisition destination when the acquisition destination of custom data is selected according to the selection determination program 502g.

[0151] The storage program 502i is a program for storing custom data in the storage unit 66 when the custom data is acquired according to the acquisition program 502h.

[0152] Also, the storage program 502i includes a program for storing original data in the storage unit 66 when a printer driver is installed according to the installation program 502e.

[0153] The setting program 502j is a program for setting the standard printing conditions in the printer driver according to the custom data when the custom data is stored in the storage unit 66 according to the storage program 502i.

[0154] Also, the setting program 502j includes a program for setting the standard printing conditions in the printer driver according to the original data when only the original data is stored in the storage unit 66 according to the storage program 502i.

[0155] The driver program 502k is a program corresponding to the printer driver.

[0156] Also, although not shown, other programs necessary for controlling the information processing apparatus 14 and the like are also stored in the program storage area 502.

[0157] The data storage area 504 stores operation data 504a, image generation data 504b, original data 504c, and custom data 504d.

[0158] The operation data 504a is operation data detected according to the operation detection program 502a and is stored in time series. Note that the operation data 504a is deleted after being used for the processing of the CPU 60.

[0159] The image generation data 504b is data including polygon data, texture data, etc. for generating a display image. Also, the image generation data 404b includes image data corresponding to software keys and the like.

[0160] The original data 504c is data indicating an original value. Also, the custom data 504d is custom data acquired from the image forming apparatus 12. Therefore, the custom data 504d corresponds to the custom data 404c.

[0161] Although illustration is omitted, other data necessary for the execution of the information processing program is stored in the data storage area 504, and flags and counters (timers) necessary for the execution of the information processing program are also provided.

[0162] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the storage process of the CPU 20 of the image forming apparatus 12. The CPU 20 starts the storage process, for example, in response to the main power being turned on.

[0163] In step S1, it is determined whether custom data has been input to the own device. If it is "NO" in step S1, that is, if the custom data has not been input to the own device, the process returns to step S1. On the other hand, if it is "YES" in step S1, that is, if the custom data has been input to the own device, the process proceeds to step S3.

[0164] In step S3, it is determined whether the custom value indicated by the custom data is a custom value that cannot be realized by the own device. If it is "NO" in step S3, that is, if the custom value is a custom value that can be realized by the own device, the process proceeds to step S7. If it is "YES" in step S3, that is, if the custom value is a custom value that cannot be realized by the own device, in step S5, the custom value that cannot be realized by the own device is changed to a custom value that can be realized by the own device, and the process proceeds to step S7.

[0165] In step S7, the custom data is stored in the storage unit 26, and the process returns to step S1.

[0166] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the device compatibility process of the CPU 20 of the image forming apparatus 12. The CPU 20 starts the device compatibility process, for example, when the removal of an optional device is detected.

[0167] In step S21, it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the removal of the option device was detected. If the result in step S21 is "NO", that is, if the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process returns to step S21. On the other hand, if the result in step S21 is "YES", that is, if the predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S23.

[0168] In step S23, it is determined whether the custom value indicated by the custom data is a custom value that cannot be realized by the own device. If the result in step S23 is "NO", that is, if the custom value is a custom value that can be realized by the own device, the device corresponding process ends. On the other hand, if the result in step S23 is "YES", that is, if the custom value is a custom value that cannot be realized by the own device, in step S25, the custom value that cannot be realized by the own device is changed to a custom value that can be realized by the own device, and the device corresponding process ends.

[0169] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the condition setting process of the CPU 60 of the information processing apparatus 14. The CPU 60 starts the condition setting process, for example, in response to the start of installation of a printer driver.

[0170] In step S41, the acquisition destination selection screen 120 is displayed on the display 72, and in step S43, it is determined whether the device selection key 122 has been operated. Here, it is determined whether the acquisition destination of the custom data has been selected.

[0171] If the result in step S43 is "NO", that is, if the device selection key 122 has not been operated, the process proceeds to step S53. On the other hand, if the result in step S43 is "YES", that is, if the device selection key 122 has been operated, the process proceeds to step S45.

[0172] In step S45, the custom data is acquired, and in step S47, the custom data is stored.

[0173] In step S49, the original data is stored, and in step S51, the standard printing conditions are set according to the custom data. When the standard printing conditions are set in step S51, the condition setting process ends.

[0174] In step S53, it is determined whether the cancel key 124 has been operated. Here, it is determined whether the acquisition of the custom data has been canceled.

[0175] If it is "NO" in step S53, that is, if the cancel key 124 has not been operated, the process returns to step S41. On the other hand, if it is "YES" in step S53, that is, if the cancel key 124 has been operated, the process proceeds to step S55.

[0176] In step S55, the original data is stored, and in step S57, the standard printing conditions are set according to the original data. When the standard printing conditions are set in step S57, the condition setting process ends.

[0177] According to the first embodiment, when the printer driver is installed, the trouble involved in resolving inconveniences can be omitted. [Second Embodiment] In the second embodiment, it is the same as the first embodiment except that the custom value can be set in the image forming apparatus 12, so duplicate explanations are omitted.

[0178] In the image forming apparatus 12 of the second embodiment, for example, when the main power supply is turned on, the home screen 140, which is the screen of the main menu of the image forming apparatus 12, is displayed on the display 32.

[0179] FIG. 12 is an example of the home screen 140. A plurality of function selection keys 142 and setting keys 144 are provided on the home screen 140.

[0180] The plurality of function selection keys 142 are provided for selecting the copy function, fax function, and scan function that the image forming apparatus 12 has.

[0181] Among the plurality of function selection keys 142, a function of displaying an operation screen corresponding to any one of the copy function, the fax function, and the scan function on the display 32 is assigned.

[0182] When a predetermined function selection key 142 is operated, an operation screen of the function corresponding to the operated function selection key 142 is displayed on the display 32.

[0183] The setting key 144 is provided for performing various settings of the image forming apparatus 12. A function of displaying an operation screen (setting screen) for performing various settings of the image forming apparatus 12 on the display 32 is assigned to the setting key 144. When the setting key 144 is operated, the setting screen is displayed on the display 32.

[0184] In the second embodiment, as the setting screen, a custom screen 160 which is a screen for setting custom values is displayed on the display 32.

[0185] FIG. 13 is an example of the custom screen 160. A schematic diagram 162 of the image forming apparatus 12 as viewed from the front is displayed on the custom screen 160.

[0186] In addition, a plurality of item keys 164, an end key 166, an acquisition key 168, and a determination key 170 are provided on the custom screen 160.

[0187] The plurality of item keys 164 are provided for setting custom values for each setting item.

[0188] A function of setting a custom value of a predetermined setting item is assigned to each of the plurality of item keys 164.

[0189] When a predetermined item key 164 is operated, a custom value corresponding to the operated item key 164 is set.

[0190] Specifically, a pull-down menu (not shown) is displayed on the display 32, and custom values are set according to user operations. Note that for each of the plurality of item keys 164, the setting content corresponding to the custom value is displayed.

[0191] However, on the custom screen 160, setting to a custom value that cannot be achieved by the own device is restricted. For example, options corresponding to custom values that cannot be achieved by the own device are not displayed in the pull-down menu. Also, operations on options corresponding to custom values that cannot be achieved by the image forming apparatus 12 are disabled.

[0192] The end key 166 is provided to end the setting of the custom value. The end key 166 is assigned a function of displaying an operation screen other than the setting screen on the display 32.

[0193] When the end key 166 is operated, for example, the home screen 140 is displayed on the display 32.

[0194] The acquisition key 168 is provided to acquire custom data from the outside. The acquisition key 168 is assigned a function of displaying an operation screen for acquiring custom data from the outside on the display 32.

[0195] When the acquisition key 168 is operated, the acquisition screen 180 (see FIG. 14) is displayed on the display 32.

[0196] The determination key 170 is provided to end the setting of the custom value. The determination key 170 is assigned a function of generating custom data.

[0197] When the determination key 170 is operated, custom data is generated according to the set custom value and stored in the image forming apparatus 12.

[0198] FIG. 14 is an example of the acquisition screen 180. The acquisition screen 180 is a screen for acquiring custom data from the outside.

[0199] The acquisition screen 180 includes a display area 182 indicating the acquisition destination of custom data. The acquisition screen 180 is provided with a reference key 184, a return key 186, and an execution key 188.

[0200] The reference key 184 is provided for referring to the acquisition destination of custom data. The reference key 184 is assigned a function of presenting a list of acquisition destinations of custom data to the user.

[0201] When the reference key 184 is operated, for example, a pop-up screen (not shown) is displayed on the display 32.

[0202] The pop-up screen displays a list of external devices (such as general-purpose servers) that are acquisition destinations of custom data, and the acquisition destination of custom data is selected according to user operations.

[0203] Also, when the acquisition destination of custom data is selected, the pop-up screen is made non-displayed, and a character string indicating the acquisition destination is displayed in the display area 182.

[0204] Furthermore, as the acquisition destination, a medium for storing custom data may be set.

[0205] The return key 186 is provided for returning to the previous screen. The return key 186 is assigned a function of displaying the previous screen on the display 32.

[0206] When the return key 186 is operated, the custom screen 160 is displayed on the display 32.

[0207] The execution key 188 is provided for acquiring custom data. The execution key 188 is assigned a function of acquiring custom data from a predetermined acquisition destination.

[0208] When the execution key 188 is operated, custom data is input into the image forming apparatus 12.

[0209] Also, when custom data is input to the image forming apparatus 12, the custom data is stored in the image forming apparatus 12 as described above.

[0210] Note that if the acquisition source of the custom data is not selected, the operation on the execution key 188 is invalidated.

[0211] Also, when the execution key 188 is operated and custom data is acquired by the image forming apparatus 12, the home screen 140 is displayed on the display 32.

[0212] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a memory map 400 of the RAM 24 of the image forming apparatus 12 according to the second embodiment.

[0213] The control program of the image forming apparatus 12 according to the second embodiment newly includes a data generation program 402k.

[0214] The data generation program 402k is a program for generating custom data when a predetermined user operation is detected according to the operation detection program 402a.

[0215] FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the generation process of the CPU 20 of the image forming apparatus 12. The CPU 20 starts the generation process, for example, in response to the custom screen 160 being displayed on the display 32.

[0216] In step S71, it is determined whether the decision key 170 has been operated. If the result in step S71 is "NO", that is, if the decision key 170 has not been operated, the process proceeds to step S77. On the other hand, if the result in step S71 is "YES", that is, if the decision key 170 has been operated, custom data is generated in step S73. In step S75, the generated custom data is stored and the generation process ends.

[0217] In step S77, it is determined whether to display a screen other than the custom screen 160 on the display 32. If the result in step S77 is "NO", that is, if a screen other than the custom screen 160 is not to be displayed on the display 32, the process returns to step S71. On the other hand, if the result in step S77 is "YES", that is, if a screen other than the custom screen 160 is to be displayed on the display 32, the generation process ends.

[0218] In the second embodiment, custom data can be generated by the image forming apparatus 12 even without a customization tool. That is, the trouble of preparing a customization tool in advance can be eliminated.

[0219] In the image forming apparatus 12, when a custom value that cannot be realized by the apparatus itself is changed to a custom value that cannot be realized by the apparatus itself, a notification may be given that the setting content of the setting item has been changed. For example, if the custom value of the color mode is changed, a notification is given that the color mode has been changed from "color" to "black and white (monochrome)".

[0220] Specifically, a message for notifying that the setting content has been changed is displayed on the display 32. Note that the notification method is not particularly limited.

[0221] According to this, the user can be notified that the setting content of the setting item has been changed.

[0222] Note that each of the above-described embodiments is an example, and can be appropriately changed in an actual product. Furthermore, the flowcharts shown in each of the above-described embodiments are examples, and the order of each step can be arbitrarily changed when the same effect can be obtained.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0223] 10... Printing system 12... Information processing apparatus 14... Image forming apparatus 16... Network 20... CPU 24 … RAM 26 … Memory unit 40 … Communication unit 42 … Detection unit 60 … CPU 64 … RAM 66 … Memory unit 76 … Communication unit

Claims

1. A printing system including an image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus, The image forming apparatus includes: A first communication unit that communicates with the information processing device; and a first storage unit that stores a custom value indicated by the custom data as a setting value of a printing condition; The information processing device includes: A second communication unit that communicates with the image forming apparatus; an installation unit that installs a printer driver for controlling the image forming apparatus; a first display unit that displays a selection screen for selecting an image forming apparatus from which the setting values ​​are to be acquired when the printer driver is installed by the installation unit; a data acquisition unit that acquires the setting values ​​from the selected image forming apparatus when the image forming apparatus is selected on the selection screen; and A printing system comprising a setting unit which, when the image forming device is selected on the selection screen, sets standard values ​​of the printing conditions in the printer driver according to setting values ​​acquired by the data acquisition unit, and, when the image forming device is not selected on the selection screen, sets standard values ​​of the printing conditions in the printer driver according to predetermined original values.

2. A control method for a printing system including an image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus, comprising: In the image forming apparatus, A first communication step of communicating with the information processing device; and A first storage step is executed to store the custom value indicated by the custom data as a setting value of the printing condition; In the information processing device, a second communication step of communicating with the image forming apparatus; an installation step of installing a printer driver for controlling the image forming apparatus; a first display step of displaying a selection screen for selecting an image forming apparatus from which the setting values ​​are to be acquired when the printer driver is installed in the installation step; a data acquisition step of acquiring the setting values ​​from the selected image forming apparatus when the image forming apparatus is selected on the selection screen; and A control method for a printing system, comprising: if the image forming device is selected on the selection screen, a setting step is executed to set standard values ​​of the printing conditions in the printer driver according to the setting values ​​acquired in the data acquisition step; and if the image forming device is not selected on the selection screen, a setting step is executed to set standard values ​​of the printing conditions in the printer driver according to predetermined original values.

3. A printing system comprising an image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus, The image forming apparatus includes: A first communication unit that communicates with the information processing device; and a first storage unit that stores a custom value indicated by the custom data as a setting value of a printing condition; The information processing device includes: A second communication unit that communicates with the image forming apparatus; an installation unit that installs a printer driver for controlling the image forming apparatus; a first display unit that displays a selection screen for selecting an image forming apparatus from which the setting values ​​are to be acquired when the printer driver is installed by the installation unit; a data acquisition unit that acquires the setting values ​​from the selected image forming apparatus when the image forming apparatus is selected on the selection screen; a second storage unit that stores the setting value acquired by the data acquisition unit; and a setting unit that sets standard values ​​of printing conditions in the printer driver in accordance with the setting values ​​stored in the second storage unit when the image forming apparatus is selected on the selection screen; the image forming apparatus further includes a second determination unit that, when detecting removal of an optional device, determines whether the custom value is a custom value that cannot be realized by the image forming apparatus after a predetermined time has elapsed; A printing system in which, if the second judgment unit determines that the custom value is a custom value that cannot be realized by the device, the first storage unit changes the custom value to a custom value that can be realized by the device, and stores the changed custom value as the setting value.

4. A control method for a printing system including an image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus, comprising: In the image forming apparatus, A first communication step of communicating with the information processing device; and A first storage step is executed to store the custom value indicated by the custom data as a setting value of the printing condition; In the information processing device, a second communication step of communicating with the image forming apparatus; an installation step of installing a printer driver for controlling the image forming apparatus; a first display step of displaying a selection screen for selecting an image forming apparatus from which the setting values ​​are to be acquired when the printer driver is installed in the installation step; a data acquisition step of acquiring the setting values ​​from the selected image forming apparatus when the image forming apparatus is selected on the selection screen; a second storage step of storing the setting value acquired in the data acquisition step; and When the image forming apparatus is selected on the selection screen, a setting step is executed to set standard values ​​of printing conditions in the printer driver in accordance with the setting values ​​stored in the second storage step; when the image forming apparatus detects removal of an optional device, after a predetermined time has elapsed, the image forming apparatus further executes a second determination step of determining whether the custom value is a custom value that cannot be realized by the image forming apparatus itself; A control method in a printing system, in which, in the first storage step, if it is determined by the second judgment step that the custom value is a custom value that cannot be realized by the device itself, the custom value is changed to a custom value that can be realized by the device itself, and the changed custom value is stored as the setting value.

Images