Image communication apparatus and control method thereof

Abstract

To provide an image communication device and the like that facilitate execution of jobs based on setting history information via a setting screen desired by a user and are highly convenient.SOLUTION: An image communication device includes: a communication unit that communicates with another device according to an operation mode; a history management unit that manages the operation mode, and a history of the communication unit; and a control unit that performs control to display the history. When a first operation mode according to a setting screen through which a display instruction of the history is received and a second mode associated with the selected history are different, and when a job by the second operation mode associated with the history can be executed in the first mode, the control unit displays the setting screen according to the first operation mode.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Some image communication apparatuses such as multifunction printers execute each function such as fax and image transmission in units of jobs.

[0003] In general, the execution of a job is performed via a setting screen specialized for the function settings of the job. In recent years, with the increasing functionality of image communication apparatuses, the screen operations via the setting screen have become more complicated.

[0004] In order to improve the convenience of an image communication apparatus, there is also known an apparatus that separately provides a setting screen (simple setting screen) in which the display content of a setting screen (normal setting screen) enabling all settings is simplified (restricted).

[0005] In the simple setting screen, since the configurable items are limited, even a user who does not require high-functional processing or a user who is not good at screen operations on the normal setting screen can easily execute a job without performing unnecessary screen operations.

[0006] By the way, attempts have been made to read out as setting history information the set values set via the setting screen when executing a job and reuse the past setting history information (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0007] The image forming apparatus and the like according to Patent Document 1 are configured such that set values can be set via the setting screen and can be read out from the setting screen.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0008]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0009] Conventionally, for example, when the setting history information set and stored via a normal setting screen is read via a simple setting screen, the simple setting screen transitions to the normal setting screen. Therefore, it was not user-friendly for users who routinely execute jobs via the simple setting screen.

[0010] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an image communication apparatus or the like that enables easy execution of a job based on setting history information via a setting screen desired by the user and has high convenience.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0011] In order to solve the above problems, an image communication apparatus according to the present disclosure includes a communication unit that communicates with other devices according to an operation mode, the operation mode, a history management unit that manages the history of the communication unit, and a control unit that performs control to display the history. The control unit, when a first operation mode related to a setting screen that has received an instruction to display the history is different from a second operation mode associated with the selected history, and when a job associated with the history can be executed in the first operation mode, displays a setting screen corresponding to the first operation mode.

[0012] Also, an image communication apparatus according to the present disclosure includes a communication unit that communicates with other devices using a first transmission method and a second transmission method different from the first transmission method, a transmission method, a history management unit that manages the history of the communication unit, and a control unit that performs control to display the history. The control unit, when receiving an instruction to display the history, compares the destination in the first transmission method recorded in the history with the destination in the second transmission method, and displays a setting screen corresponding to the transmission method with more destinations.

[0013] In addition, the control method of the image communication apparatus according to the present disclosure includes a communication step of communicating with another apparatus according to an operation mode, an operation mode, a history management step of managing a history of the communication step, and a control step of displaying the history. In the control step, when a first operation mode related to a setting screen that has received an instruction to display the history is different from a second operation mode associated with the selected history, if a job associated with the history can be executed in the first operation mode, a setting screen corresponding to the first operation mode is displayed.

[0014] In addition, the control method of the image communication apparatus according to the present disclosure includes a communication step of communicating with another apparatus using a first transmission method and a second transmission method different from the first transmission method, a transmission method, a history management step of managing a history of the communication step, and a control step of performing control to display the history. In the control step, when an instruction to display the history is received, the destination in the first transmission method recorded in the history is compared with the destination in the second transmission method, and a setting screen corresponding to the transmission method with more destinations is displayed.

Advantages of the Invention

[0015] According to the present disclosure, it is easy to execute a job based on setting history information via a setting screen desired by the user, and an image communication apparatus or the like with high convenience can be provided.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0016]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0017] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the present disclosure, a multifunction peripheral that executes each function such as fax, image transmission, or copy in units of jobs will be described as one form of an image communication device. Note that the following embodiments are examples for explaining the present disclosure, and the technical scope of the description described in the claims is not limited to the following description.

[0018] [1 First Embodiment] In the first embodiment, when executing a job, the job can be executed via either a normal setting screen as a setting screen capable of all settings related to the execution of the job or a simple setting screen as a setting screen that simplifies (restricts) the display content of the normal setting screen. This is the form of a multifunction peripheral. Note that the execution (operation) mode of the job via the normal setting screen will be described as the "normal mode", and the execution (operation) mode of the job via the simple setting screen will be described as the "simple mode".

[0019] [1.1 Functional Configuration] FIG. 1 is an external perspective view schematically explaining the overall configuration of the multifunction peripheral 10 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction peripheral 10. The multifunction peripheral 10 includes a control unit 11, a display unit 13, an operation input unit 15, a communication unit 17, an image forming unit 19, an image reading unit 21, and a storage unit 23.

[0020] The control unit 11 controls the entire multifunction peripheral 10. The control unit 11 is configured by, for example, one or more arithmetic devices (such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit)). The control unit 11 realizes its functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 23.

[0021] The display unit 13 displays various information to the user or the like. The display unit 13 can be configured by, for example, an LCD (Liquid crystal display), an organic EL (Electro-luminescence) display, or the like.

[0022] The operation input unit 15 receives input of information by the user or the like. The operation input unit 15 can be configured by hard keys (for example, numeric keys) or buttons. Note that the operation input unit 15 can be configured as a touch panel capable of input via the display unit 13. In this case, as the input method of the touch panel, for example, methods such as a resistive film method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, and a capacitance method can be adopted.

[0023] The communication unit 17 includes a wired / wireless interface, either one or both, for communicating with other devices via a network (NW) such as a LAN (Local area network), a WAN (Wide area network), the Internet, a telephone line, or a fax line.

[0024] The image forming unit 19 forms an image based on image data on a sheet as a recording medium. The image forming unit 19 feeds a sheet from the sheet feeding unit 25, forms an image based on the image data on the sheet, and then discharges the sheet to the sheet discharging unit 27. The image forming unit 19 can be configured by, for example, a laser printer using an electrophotographic method. The image forming unit 19 performs image formation using toner supplied from a toner cartridge (not shown) corresponding to toner colors (for example, C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow), K (black)).

[0025] The image reading unit 21 generates image data by scanning and reading a document image to be read. The image reading unit 21 can be configured as, for example, a scanner device equipped with an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CIS (Contact Image Sensor). The image reading unit 21 is not limited to its configuration as long as it generates image data by reading a reflected light image from the document image with an image sensor.

[0026] The storage unit 23 stores various programs and various data necessary for the operation of the multifunction device 10. The storage unit 23 can be configured by, for example, a storage device such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or a ROM (Read Only Memory).

[0027] In the first embodiment, the storage unit 23 stores a job execution program 231, a setting history information processing program 232, a display processing program 233, and a mode determination program 234, and secures a setting value storage area 235, a setting history information storage area 236, and a display content storage area 237.

[0028] The job execution program 231 is a program read by the control unit 11 to perform processing associated with the execution of each function such as fax, image transmission, or copy in job units. The control unit 11 that reads the job execution program 231 executes a job by controlling each unit involved in the execution of the job, such as the display unit 13, the operation input unit 15, the communication unit 17, the image forming unit 19, and the image reading unit 21. Also, the control unit 11 that reads the job execution program 231 executes various jobs based on the setting values included in the setting history information described later.

[0029] The setting history information processing program 232 is a program that the control unit 11 reads out when, for example, acquiring setting values related to the execution of a job, generating setting history information, and performing various processes on the setting history information. The control unit 11 that has read out the setting history information processing program 232 acquires the setting values related to the execution of the job and stores them in the setting value storage area 235. Further, the control unit 11 generates setting history information based on the acquired setting values and stores it in the setting history information storage area 236. Note that the control unit 11 that has read out the setting history information processing program 232 also functions as a history management unit that manages the operation mode (normal mode or simple mode) and the history of the communication unit 17 as the job type (fax or image transmission).

[0030] The display processing program 233 is a program that the control unit 11 reads out when displaying a display screen for displaying setting history information, a setting screen such as a normal setting screen, a simple setting screen for accepting input of various setting values related to the execution of a job, or a home screen for accepting switching of each job function, etc. The control unit 11 that has read out the display processing program 233 configures each screen based on frame information (not shown) stored in the display content storage area 237, content arrangement information, etc., and displays it on the display unit 13.

[0031] The mode determination program 234 identifies whether the setting history information selected via the currently displayed setting screen is related to a job executed in the normal mode (normal setting screen) or a job executed in the simple mode (simple setting screen) when executing a job, and determines the mode of the job to be executed. The control unit 11 that has read out the mode determination program 234, for example, (1) When the currently displayed setting screen is a simple setting screen and the setting history information selected via the simple setting screen is related to a job executed via the simple setting screen, it determines that the mode of the job to be executed is the "simple mode". (2) The displayed setting screen is the simple setting screen, the setting history information selected through the simple setting screen relates to a job executed through the normal setting screen, and when execution in the simple mode is possible, the mode of the job to be executed is determined as the "simple mode". (3) When the displayed setting screen is the normal setting screen and the setting history information selected through the normal setting screen relates to a job executed through the simple setting screen, the mode of the job to be executed is determined as the "simple mode". (4) When the displayed setting screen is the normal setting screen, the setting history information selected through the normal setting screen relates to a job executed through the normal setting screen, and when execution in the simple mode is possible, the mode of the job to be executed is determined as the "simple mode". In addition, in the above (2) or (4), when the setting history information in which a function not in the simple mode (for example, compression ratio function, compression format function, etc.) is set is selected by the user, the control unit 11 can also determine the mode of the job to be executed as the "normal mode".

[0032] The setting value storage area 235 is a storage area that stores setting values related to the execution of a job. The setting values include, for example, setting values set by the user such as fax / image, original size, original orientation, density, image quality, etc., and setting values such as device initial values held by the device itself.

[0033] The setting history information storage area 236 is a storage area that stores setting history information in a data table format or the like. The setting history information according to the present disclosure can be configured as history information with an identifier such as a job ID for uniquely identifying information that is a combination of information related to the execution history of a job such as job type, executing user name, execution date and time, mode, etc., and part or all of the setting values stored in the setting value storage area 235. The setting history information stored in the setting history information storage area 236 is appropriately called when executing a job based on the setting history information, determining the mode, etc.

[0034] FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a configuration example of setting history information. For example, the setting history information of job ID "025" includes, as information related to the execution history, "job type": fax, "executing user name": Yamada, "document name": document03, "number of pages / sets": 002 / 001, "start date and time - end date and time": 2019 / 12 / 04 10:30:50 - 2019 / 12 / 04 10:32:50, "mode": normal (normal mode). The setting history information also includes setting values such as "fax / image": fax, "original size": A4, "original orientation": landscape, ···, "card scan": No. Note that the setting values in FIG. 3 are merely examples, and the setting values in the present disclosure are not limited to only the matters described in FIG. 3. For example, in a fax job or an image transmission job, when the destination of the generated fax data or image data is specified by an address book, a transmission history, or direct input, etc., these destination information can also be included as setting values.

[0035] The display content storage area 237 is a storage area that stores frame information (not shown) and content arrangement information, etc., which are used for displaying a display screen, a setting screen, or a home screen, etc. The control unit 11 that has read the display processing program 233 configures each screen based on the frame information (not shown) and content arrangement information, etc., stored in the display content storage area 237 and displays it on the display unit 13.

[0036] [1.2 Flow of processing] Next, the flow of processing according to the first embodiment will be described. First, as the overall processing by the multifunction machine 10, the processing related to the generation and storage of setting history information based on the executed job will be described using the flowchart of FIG. 4. In the following description, as one form of the job executed by the multifunction machine 10, a fax job or an image transmission job will be assumed for description, but this processing is also applicable to a copy job, etc.

[0037] The control unit 11 receives an input of an execution instruction for a job via a normal setting screen related to the normal mode or a simple setting screen related to the simple mode (step S10).

[0038] The control unit 11 reads out the job execution program 231. The control unit 11 executes a job by controlling each unit such as the image forming unit 19 based on the set value received via the normal setting screen or the simple setting screen (step S20).

[0039] After the execution of the job, the control unit 11 reads out the setting history information processing program 232. The control unit 11 acquires the set value related to the execution of the job. Then, the control unit 11 generates setting history information based on the acquired set value and stores it in the setting history information storage area 236. At this time, the control unit 11 attaches mode information (see FIG. 3) indicating whether the job was executed in the normal mode or the simple mode to the generated setting history information and stores it (step S30).

[0040] Next, the processing when executing a new job using the setting history information stored in the setting history information storage area 236 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 5.

[0041] When executing a job, the user selects whether to execute in the normal mode via the normal setting screen or in the simple mode via the simple setting screen. In this case, the user can also select either the normal mode or the simple mode via, for example, the home screen described later.

[0042] When either the normal mode or the simple mode is selected by the user, the control unit 11 accepts the selection of the mode (step S40).

[0043] The control unit 11 reads out the display processing program 233 and displays on the display unit 13 a setting screen (normal setting screen or simple setting screen) based on the accepted mode (step S50).

[0044] After the setting screen is displayed, the control unit 11 determines whether the execution of the job uses the stored setting history information (step S60). In this case, the control unit 11 may determine that the stored setting history information is to be used when an input for displaying the setting history information is received.

[0045] If it is determined that the setting history information is to be used, the control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13 a setting screen to which the setting values of the setting history information selected by the user are applied (step S70).

[0046] When the control unit 11 receives an execution instruction for a new job via the setting screen displayed on the display unit 13, it executes a job based on the setting history information (step S80).

[0047] If it is determined that the setting history information is not to be used (step S60; No), when the control unit 11 receives an execution instruction for a new job via the setting screen displayed in step S50, it executes the job (step S80).

[0048] Note that the setting values related to the job executed in step S80 can be generated and stored as setting history information by the same processing as step S30 in FIG. 4.

[0049] Next, the process of "displaying a setting screen to which the setting value is applied" according to step 70 in FIG. 5 will be described using the flowchart in FIG. 6.

[0050] The control unit 11 determines whether the setting screen displayed based on the mode selected by the user in step S50 of FIG. 5 is a simple setting screen (step S90).

[0051] If it is determined that the displayed setting screen is a simple setting screen (step S90; Yes), the control unit 11 determines whether the selected setting history information is setting history information related to a normal mode job (step S90; Yes → step S110).

[0052] Further, when the control unit 11 determines that the displayed setting screen is not the simple setting screen but the normal setting screen (step S90; No → step S100), it also determines whether the selected setting history information is the setting history information related to the normal mode job (step S100 → step S110).

[0053] When it is determined that the selected setting history information is the setting history information related to the normal mode job, the control unit determines whether the normal mode job related to the setting history information can be supported in the simple mode (step S110; Yes → step S120).

[0054] When it is determined that the normal mode job can be supported in the simple mode, the control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13 a simple setting screen to which the setting value of the setting history information is applied (step S120; Yes → step S130).

[0055] On the other hand, when it is determined that the normal mode job cannot be supported in the simple mode, the control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13 a normal setting screen to which the setting value of the setting history information is applied (step S120; No → step S140).

[0056] The control unit 11 executes a job based on the setting value displayed on either the simple setting screen or the normal setting screen and ends the process (step S150).

[0057] [1.3 Operation Example] Next, an operation example of the first embodiment will be described. In the present disclosure, the touch panel type operation input unit 15 provided on the screen of the display unit 13 detects pressing by the user on each button area partitioned on the screen, enabling each input by the user. FIG. 7(a) is a configuration example of a simple setting screen W10 related to a fax job. FIG. 7(b) is a configuration example of a normal setting screen W20 related to a fax job. The simple setting screen W10 can be displayed, for example, through the mode selection process by the user via the home screen in step S40 of FIG. 5, or via the normal setting screen W20. The normal setting screen W20 can be displayed, for example, in the same manner as the display of the simple setting screen W10, through the mode selection process by the user via the home screen, or via the simple setting screen W10.

[0058] Compared with the normal setting screen W20, the simple setting screen W10 has limited set value items that can be set by the user and has a simple screen configuration. The simple setting screen W10 includes a set value button B11a, an operation control button B13a, a start button B15a, a normal setting button B17a, a job status notification button B19a, a display switching button B21a, and a destination display area R11a.

[0059] The set value button B11a accepts the selection and input of set values that can be set by the user via the simple setting screen W10. For example, the user can press the address book button and set the destination of the fax transmission as a set value from the displayed address book (not shown). FIG. 7(a) shows an example of displaying three types of set value items, "address book", "transmission history", and "direct input", as settable set value items. Note that other set value items can be displayed by pressing the display switching button B21a.

[0060] The operation control button B13a includes, for example, a reset button, a preview button, a setting history display button B23a, a manual reception button, etc. For example, the reset button accepts the reset of the set value selected and input via the set value button B11a, etc. The preview button accepts an instruction to display a preview image prior to the execution of a fax job. The setting history display button B23a accepts an instruction to display a setting history display screen described later. The manual reception button accepts the input of manual reception of a fax by the user.

[0061] The start button B15a accepts the input of an execution instruction for a fax job. When the start button B15a is pressed, the control unit 11 executes the processing related to the fax job.

[0062] The normal setting button B17a accepts an instruction to switch the display to the normal setting screen W20.

[0063] The job status notification button B19a accepts an instruction to notify the execution status of a job.

[0064] The destination display area R11a is a display area that displays the destination of fax transmission selected and input via any one of the address book, transmission history, or direct input of the set value button B11a.

[0065] The normal setting screen W20 shown in FIG. 7(b) has a screen configuration that enables all settings related to the execution of a fax job. The normal setting screen W20 includes a set value button B11b, an operation control button B13b, a start button B15b, a job status notification button B19b, and a destination display area R11b.

[0066] The setting value button B11b accepts the selection and input of configurable setting values by the user. For example, the user can press the density button and select a desired setting value from items such as "darker", "normal", "lighter", and "automatic" (not shown) related to density selection to set the setting value related to density. Fig. 7(b) shows an example where seven setting value items of "density", "image quality", "original document", "batch original document mode", "thin paper reading", "thick paper reading", and "mixed original documents" are provided as configurable setting value items. Incidentally, each setting value shown on the surface of the setting value button B11b is displayed with the setting value of the applied setting history information reflected (Fig. 7(b) is an example where the setting value related to the setting history information of job ID "025" in Fig. 3 is applied). Note that the configuration of the setting value button B11b illustrated in Fig. 7(b) is merely an example and is not limited to only the matters described in Fig. 7(b).

[0067] In addition to the above setting value items, the setting value button B11b is provided with an "other functions" button. By pressing the "other functions" button, the user can call other setting value items other than the displayed setting value items and perform the selection and input of setting values.

[0068] In addition to the preview button and the reset button, the operation control button B13b is provided with extended function buttons such as a "search global address book" button, a "read by search number" button, and a "direct transmission" button. For example, by pressing the "search global address book" button, the user can select the destination of the fax transmission from the global address book.

[0069] Also, the operation control button B13b includes a setting history display button B23b and a simple setting button B17b. The setting history display button B23b receives an instruction to display a setting history display screen described later. Also, the simple setting button B17b receives an instruction to switch the display to the simple setting screen W10.

[0070] The start button B15b receives an input for an execution instruction of a fax job. When the start button B15b is pressed, the control unit 11 executes processing related to the fax job.

[0071] The job status notification button B19b receives a notification instruction for the execution status of a job.

[0072] The destination display area R11b is a display area that displays a fax destination selected and input via any of direct input by an address book, a transmission history, or a fax number input area R15 provided substantially at the center of the normal setting screen W20.

[0073] FIG. 8(a) is a configuration example of a simple setting screen W30 related to an image transmission job. FIG. 8(b) is a configuration example of a normal setting screen W40 related to an image transmission job. The simple setting screen W30 can be displayed, for example, through a mode selection process by the user via the home screen in step S40 of FIG. 5, which will be described later, or via the normal setting screen W40. The normal setting screen W40 can be displayed, for example, in the same manner as the display of the simple setting screen W30, through a mode selection process by the user via the home screen or via the simple setting screen W30.

[0074] Compared with the normal setting screen W40, the simple setting screen W30 has limited setting value items that can be set by the user and has a simple screen configuration. The simple setting screen W30 includes a setting value button B11c, an operation control button B13c, a start button B15c, a normal setting button B17c, a job status notification button B19c, a display switching button B21c, and a destination display area R11c.

[0075] The setting value button B11c accepts the selection and input of settable values by the user via the simple setting screen W30. For example, the user can press the address book button and set, as a set value, the destination of the image data generated by scanning from an address book (not shown) that is displayed. FIG. 8(a) shows an example in which four types of set value items, namely, "address book", "transmission history", "global address search", and "main body / device storage", are displayed as settable set value items. Note that other set value items can be displayed by pressing the display switching button B21c.

[0076] The operation control button B13c includes, for example, a reset button, a preview button, an automatic setting button, a setting history display button B23c, and the like. For example, the reset button accepts the reset of the set value selected and input via the setting value button B11c or the like. The preview button accepts an instruction to display a preview image prior to the execution of an image transmission job. The automatic setting button accepts the application of device settings set in the system settings. The setting history display button B23c accepts an instruction to display a setting history display screen described later.

[0077] The start button B15c includes a monochrome start button and a color start button. When the user desires to transmit in monochrome image, the user presses the monochrome start button. On the other hand, when the user desires to transmit in color image, the user presses the color start button. When either the monochrome start button or the color start button is pressed by the user, the control unit 11 executes processing related to the image transmission job.

[0078] The normal setting button B17c accepts an instruction to switch the display to the normal setting screen W40.

[0079] The job status notification button B19c accepts an instruction to notify the execution status of the job.

[0080] The destination display area R11c is a display area that displays the destination of the image data selected and input via any of the address book, transmission history, global address search, and main body / device storage of the setting value button B11c.

[0081] Next, the normal setting screen W40 shown in FIG. 8(b) has a screen configuration that enables all settings related to the execution of the image transmission job. The normal setting screen W40 includes a setting value button B11d, an operation control button B13d, a start button B15d, a job status notification button B19d, and a destination display area R11d.

[0082] The setting value button B11d accepts the selection and input of settable values by the user. For example, the user can press the color mode button and select a desired set value from items such as "Full Color", "Black and White", "Monochromatic Color", and "Automatic (Color / Black and White)" related to color mode selection to set the set value related to the color mode. FIG. 8(b) shows an example in which five set value items of "Color Mode", "Resolution", "Format", "Original", and "Density" are provided as settable set value items. By the way, each set value shown on the surface of the setting value button B11d is displayed with the set value of the selected setting history information reflected (FIG. 8(b) is an example in which the set value related to the setting history information of the job ID "023" in FIG. 3 is applied). Note that the configuration of the setting value button B11d illustrated in FIG. 8(b) is merely an example and is not limited to only the matters described in FIG. 8(b).

[0083] In addition to the above set value items, the setting value button B11d includes an "Other Functions" button. By pressing the "Other Functions" button, the user can call other set value items other than the displayed set value items and perform the selection and input of set values.

[0084] The operation control button B13d includes, in addition to the preview button and the reset button, extended function buttons such as, for example, a "search global address book" button, a "call by search number" button, and a "program call" button. For example, by pressing the "search global address book" button, the destination for image data transmission can be selected from the global address book.

[0085] Further, the operation control button B13d includes a setting history display button B23d and a simple setting button B17d. The setting history display button B23d receives an instruction to display a setting history display screen described later. Also, the simple setting button B17d receives an instruction to switch the display to the simple setting screen W30.

[0086] The start button B15d receives an input of an execution instruction for an image transmission job. When the start button B15d is pressed, the control unit 11 executes processing related to the image transmission job.

[0087] The job status notification button B19d receives an instruction to notify the execution status of the job.

[0088] The destination display area R11d is a display area that displays the destination as the destination of the image data selected / input via any of the address book, transmission history, or direct input.

[0089] FIG. 9 shows a configuration of the setting history display screen W50. The setting history display screen W50 can be displayed at an arbitrary timing by pressing, for example, the setting history display buttons B23a to d illustrated in FIG. 7 or FIG. 8, or the setting history display button on the home screen described later.

[0090] The setting history display screen W50 includes a setting history display area R13 and a full deletion button B25. The setting history display area R13 is configured to be able to display the setting history information related to each job in chronological order. Note that there is no particular limitation on the display form of the setting history information. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 9, it is possible to adopt display forms such as displaying the setting history information related to all jobs, displaying only the setting history information related to a certain specific job, when the multifunction machine 10 has a user authentication function, displaying only the setting history information related to the jobs of the logged-in user, displaying only the setting history information having the same set value, displaying only the setting history information related to the jobs executed within a specific period, and displaying only the setting history information related to a specific job execution user.

[0091] FIG. 9 is an example of displaying the setting history information related to five jobs, namely normal fax, simple fax, normal image transmission, simple image transmission, and simple copy, in chronological order from top to bottom. Note that the upper three types of setting history information in FIG. 9 are displayed as information corresponding to the setting history information related to the job IDs “025” to “023” illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0092] Here, in each display area (the part related to the fax job) in the setting history display area R13, the job type under a specific mode (for example, the fax job under the normal mode: normal fax), the start date and time of the job, and a part of the set value are displayed. FIG. 9 is an example of displaying three types of set value items, namely “density”, “image quality”, and “document”, as the set value items to be displayed, but the set value items to be displayed can be appropriately selected.

[0093] Each piece of setting history information displayed in the setting history display area R13 is configured to be selectable by the user. By selecting the desired setting history information, the user can easily execute a job based on the setting history information or a similar job. For example, when the setting history information related to the simple copy enclosed by the dotted line frame in the figure (corresponding to the job ID "024") is selected, the screen can be transitioned to the simple setting screen W10 illustrated in FIG. 7(a). In this case, the selected setting history information may be dimmed so that it is easy to grasp the selected setting history information.

[0094] The all-delete button B25 receives a deletion instruction for the setting history information from the setting history display area R13. When the all-delete button B25 is pressed by the user, the control unit 11 stops the display of the setting history information in the setting history display area R13.

[0095] Next, FIG. 10 shows an operation example in the case where, in step S40 of FIG. 5, the simple mode related to the fax job is selected by the user, and the selected setting history information is related to a job executed in the normal mode (normal setting screen W20) via the simple setting screen W10.

[0096] Note that this operation example corresponds to the processing described in the flowcharts of FIGS. 5 and 6. Here, the state in which the control unit 11 displays the simple setting screen W10 is referred to as "state 1", the state in which the setting history display screen W50 is displayed is referred to as "state 2", and the state in which the normal setting screen W20 is displayed is referred to as "state 3" for explanation.

[0097] When the setting history display button B23a is pressed from state 1 in which the simple setting screen W10 is displayed, the control unit 11 transitions the display screen to the setting history display screen W50 (arrow 1-2 in the figure, state 1 → state 2).

[0098] In state 2, when the user selects the setting history information related to the fax job, the control unit 11 determines whether the selected setting history information is a fax job executed in the normal mode (corresponding to the process of step S110 in FIG. 6). In this case, the control unit 11 can determine whether the selected setting history information is a fax job executed in the normal mode by referring to the "mode" item included in the selected setting history information.

[0099] When the control unit 11 determines that the setting history information selected by the user is a fax job executed in the normal mode, it further determines whether the fax job can be supported in the simple mode (step S110 in FIG. 6; Yes → corresponding to the process of step S120). In this case, the control unit 11 refers to the set values of the setting history information and checks the set values that cannot be changed by the user via the simple setting screen W10 (for example, the large number of originals function, the thin paper / thick paper reading function, etc.). The control unit 11 can determine that the corresponding in the simple mode is possible when these set values have not been changed.

[0100] When it is determined that the fax job can be supported in the simple mode, the control unit 11 changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the simple setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1). By the way, when the control unit 11 determines that the setting history information selected by the user is a fax job executed in the simple mode, it also changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the simple setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1).

[0101] Along with the transition of the display screen from state 2 to state 1, the control unit 11 displays the set values of the setting history information selected by the user on the display unit 13 in a state where they are applied to the simple setting screen W10.

[0102] On the other hand, when a change is made to a set value that cannot be changed by the user via the simple setting screen W10, the control unit 11 determines that it is impossible to handle in the simple mode. Then, the control unit 11 changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the normal setting screen W20 (arrow 2-3 in the figure, state 2 → state 3).

[0103] Along with the transition of the display screen from state 2 to state 3, the control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13 with the set value of the set history information selected by the user applied to the normal setting screen W20.

[0104] As illustrated in FIG. 10, the simple setting screen W10 and the normal setting screen W20 can be appropriately switched by pressing a display switching instruction button (normal setting button B17a or simple setting button B17b) provided on each setting screen. Therefore, for example, in the simple mode, when the user wants to change a set value that cannot be changed, the user can easily and flexibly execute a fax job by switching the display screen (mode) from the simple setting screen W10 to the normal setting screen W20.

[0105] FIG. 11 shows an operation example when, in step S40 of FIG. 5, the set history information selected via the normal setting screen W20 in the state where the normal mode is selected by the user relates to a job executed in the normal mode (normal setting screen W20).

[0106] When the setting history display button B23b is pressed in the state 3 where the normal setting screen W20 is displayed, the control unit 11 changes the display screen to the setting history display screen W50 (arrow 3-2 in the figure, state 3 → state 2).

[0107] In state 2, when the user selects the setting history information related to the fax job, the control unit 11 determines whether the selected setting history information is a fax job executed in the normal mode (corresponding to the process of step S110 in FIG. 6). In this case, the control unit 11 can determine whether the selected setting history information is a fax job executed in the normal mode by referring to the "mode" item included in the selected setting history information.

[0108] When the control unit 11 determines that the setting history information selected by the user is a fax job executed in the normal mode, it further determines whether the fax job can be handled in the simple mode (step S110 in FIG. 6; Yes → corresponding to the process of step S120). In this case, the control unit 11 refers to the set values of the setting history information and checks the set values that cannot be changed by the user via the simple setting screen W10 (for example, the mass document function, the thin paper / thick paper reading function, etc.). The control unit 11 determines that the simple mode can be used when these set values have not been changed. Then, the control unit 11 changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the simple setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1). Note that when the control unit 11 determines that the setting history information selected by the user is a fax job executed in the simple mode, it changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the simple setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1).

[0109] Along with the transition of the display screen from state 2 to state 1, the control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13 with the set values of the setting history information selected by the user applied to the simple setting screen W10.

[0110] By the way, when changes have been made to the set values that cannot be changed by the user via the simple setting screen W10, the control unit 11 determines that the simple mode cannot be used. Then, the control unit 11 changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the normal setting screen W20 (arrow 2-3 in the figure, state 2 → state 3).

[0111] When the display screen transitions from state 2 to state 3, the control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13 with the set value of the setting history information selected by the user applied to the normal setting screen W20.

[0112] As illustrated in FIG. 11, the simple setting screen W10 and the normal setting screen W20 can be appropriately switched by pressing the display switching instruction buttons (normal setting button B17a and simple setting button 17b) provided on their respective setting screens. Therefore, for example, in the simple mode, when the user wants to change a setting value that cannot be changed, the user can easily and flexibly execute a fax job by switching the display screen (mode) from the simple setting screen W10 (state 1) to the normal setting screen W20 (state 3).

[0113] FIG. 12 shows an operation example when, in step S40 of FIG. 5, the simple mode related to the image transmission job is selected by the user and the setting history information selected via the simple setting screen W30 is related to the job executed in the normal mode (normal setting screen W40).

[0114] This operation example corresponds to the processing described in the flowcharts of FIGS. 5 and 6. Here, the state in which the control unit 11 displays the simple setting screen W30 is described as "state 1", the state in which the setting history display screen W50 is displayed is described as "state 2", and the state in which the normal setting screen W40 is displayed is described as "state 3".

[0115] When the setting history display button B23c is pressed from state 1 in which the simple setting screen W30 is displayed, the control unit 11 transitions the display screen to the setting history display screen W50 (arrow 1-2 in the figure, state 1 → state 2).

[0116] In state 2, when the user selects the setting history information related to the image transmission job, the control unit 11 determines whether the selected setting history information is an image transmission job executed in the normal mode (corresponding to the process of step S110 in FIG. 6). In this case, the control unit 11 can determine whether the setting history information is an image transmission job executed in the normal mode by referring to the "mode" item included in the selected setting history information.

[0117] When the control unit 11 determines that the setting history information selected by the user is an image transmission job executed in the normal mode, it further determines whether the image transmission job can be supported in the simple mode (step S110 in FIG. 6; Yes → corresponding to the process of step S120). In this case, the control unit 11 refers to the setting values of the setting history information and checks the setting values that cannot be changed by the user via the simple setting screen W30 (for example, compression ratio function, compression format function, etc.). The control unit 11 can determine that the corresponding in the simple mode is possible when these setting values have not been changed.

[0118] When it is determined that the image transmission job can be supported in the simple mode, the control unit 11 changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the simple setting screen W30 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1). By the way, when the control unit 11 determines that the setting history information selected by the user is an image transmission job executed in the simple mode, it also changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the simple setting screen W30 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1).

[0119] Along with the transition of the display screen from state 2 to state 1, the control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13 with the setting values of the setting history information selected by the user applied to the simple setting screen W30.

[0120] On the other hand, when a setting value that cannot be changed by the user via the simple setting screen W30 is changed, the control unit 11 determines that it is impossible to handle in the simple mode. Then, the control unit 11 changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the normal setting screen W40 (arrow 2-3 in the figure, state 2 → state 3).

[0121] Along with the transition of the display screen from state 2 to state 3, the control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13 with the setting value of the setting history information selected by the user applied to the normal setting screen W40.

[0122] As illustrated in FIG. 12, the simple setting screen W30 and the normal setting screen W40 can be appropriately switched by pressing a display switching instruction button (normal setting button B17c or simple setting button B17d) provided on each setting screen. Therefore, for example, in the simple mode, when the user wants to change a setting value that cannot be changed, the user can easily and flexibly execute an image transmission job by switching the display screen (mode) from the simple setting screen W30 to the normal setting screen W40.

[0123] FIG. 13 shows an operation example in the case where, in step S40 of FIG. 5, the setting history information selected via the normal setting screen W40 in the state where the normal mode is selected by the user relates to a job executed in the normal mode (normal setting screen W40).

[0124] When the setting history display button B23d is pressed in the state 3 where the normal setting screen W40 is displayed, the control unit 11 changes the display screen to the setting history display screen W50 (arrow 3-2 in the figure, state 3 → state 2).

[0125] In state 2, when the user selects the setting history information related to the image transmission job, the control unit 11 determines whether the selected setting history information is an image transmission job executed in the normal mode (corresponding to the process of step S110 in FIG. 6). In this case, the control unit 11 can determine whether the selected setting history information is an image transmission job executed in the normal mode by referring to the "mode" item included in the selected setting history information.

[0126] When the control unit 11 determines that the setting history information selected by the user is an image transmission job executed in the normal mode, it further determines whether the image transmission job can be supported in the simple mode (step S100 in FIG. 6; Yes → corresponding to the process of step S110). In this case, the control unit 11 refers to the setting values of the setting history information and checks the setting values that cannot be changed by the user via the simple setting screen W30 (for example, the compression ratio function, the compression format function, etc.). The control unit 11 determines that the simple mode can be supported when these setting values have not been changed. Then, the control unit 11 changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the simple setting screen W30 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1). Note that when the control unit 11 determines that the setting history information selected by the user is an image transmission job executed in the simple mode, it changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the simple setting screen W30 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1).

[0127] Along with the transition of the display screen from state 2 to state 1, the control unit 11 displays the setting values of the setting history information selected by the user on the display unit 13 in a state where they are applied to the simple setting screen W30.

[0128] By the way, when a change has been made to the setting values that cannot be changed by the user via the simple setting screen W30, the control unit 11 determines that the simple mode cannot be supported. Then, the control unit 11 changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the normal setting screen W40 (arrow 2-3 in the figure, state 2 → state 3).

[0129] When the display screen transitions from state 2 to state 3, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 13 to display the set value of the setting history information selected by the user, with the set value applied to the normal setting screen W40.

[0130] As illustrated in FIG. 13, the simple setting screen W30 and the normal setting screen W40 can be appropriately switched by pressing the display switching instruction buttons (normal setting button B17c and simple setting button 17d) provided on their respective setting screens. Therefore, for example, in the simple mode, when the user wants to change a setting value that cannot be changed, the user can easily and flexibly execute the image transmission job by switching the display screen (mode) from the simple setting screen W10 (state 1) to the normal setting screen W20 (state 3).

[0131] As described above, according to the first embodiment, when the first operation mode related to the setting screen that has received the history display instruction is different from the second operation mode associated with the selected history, and when a job can be executed in the second operation mode associated with the history in the first operation mode, the setting screen corresponding to the first operation mode can be displayed. Therefore, it is easy for the user to execute a job based on the setting history information via the desired setting screen, and an image communication device with high convenience can be provided.

[0132] [2 Second Embodiment] The second embodiment is a form in which when selecting the setting history information via the home screen as the reception screen, it is possible to select whether to execute a job in the normal mode via the normal setting screen or to execute a job in the simple mode via the simple setting screen.

[0133] The functional configuration of the multifunction device according to the second embodiment can be the same as the functional configuration of the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of the functional configuration of the multifunction device according to the second embodiment is omitted, and the same reference numerals as those of the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment are used for the description.

[0134] [2.1 Flow of Processing] The flow of the process according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 14. In the second embodiment, processing related to a fax job or image transmission is started via the home screen. The home screen is displayed on the display unit 13, for example, when the power is turned on, during standby, or when resuming from the sleep state, and functions as a basic screen for receiving operation inputs from the user. In the following description, a transmission job, which is a type of job executed by the multifunction device 10 and is a fax job or an image transmission job, will be assumed for explanation. However, this process is applicable not only to transmission jobs but also to copy jobs and the like.

[0135] The control unit 11 displays the home screen on the display unit 13 by reading out the display processing program 233, for example, when the power is turned on, during standby, or when resuming from the sleep state (step S160).

[0136] When a display instruction for setting history information is input from the user (step S170), the control unit 11 displays the setting history display screen on the display unit 13.

[0137] Next, the control unit 11 receives a selection of the setting history information by the user (step S180). The control unit 11 determines whether the setting history information selected by the user relates to a transmission job (step S190).

[0138] When it is determined that the selected setting history information relates to a transmission job, the control unit 11 receives a selection of the transmission mode by the user (step S190; Yes → step S200).

[0139] The control unit 11 determines whether the transmission mode selected by the user is the simple mode (step S220). When the transmission mode selected by the user is the simple mode, the control unit 11 displays the simple setting screen on the display unit 13 (step 220; Yes → step S230). After the display of the simple setting screen, based on an execution instruction by the user, the control unit 11 executes the simple mode job and ends the process (step S240).

[0140] On the other hand, when the transmission mode selected by the user is not the simple mode, the control unit 11 displays the normal setting screen on the display unit 13 (step S220; No → step S250). After the display of the normal setting screen, based on the execution instruction by the user, the control unit 11 executes the normal mode job and ends the process (step S260).

[0141] Incidentally, in step S190, when it is determined that the setting history information selected by the user does not relate to the transmission job, the control unit 11 executes the job corresponding to the setting history information and ends the process (step S190; No → step S210).

[0142] [2.2 Operation Example] FIG. 15 is a configuration example of the home screen W60. The home screen W60 includes a job and the like selection button B27, a job status notification button B19e, and a display switching button B21e.

[0143] The job and the like selection button B27 accepts the selection of a job or various processes desired by the user. For example, the user can execute a fax job in the simple mode by pressing the simple fax button B29 included in the job and the like selection button B27. Also, the user can execute a fax job in the normal mode by pressing the fax button B31. The control unit 11 displays the simple setting screen W10 upon receiving the pressing of the simple fax button B29. Similarly, the control unit 11 displays the normal setting screen W20 upon receiving the pressing of the fax button B31. Note that the setting history display button B23e accepts the input for instructing the display of the setting history screen, similar to the first embodiment.

[0144] Incidentally, FIG. 15 shows an example in which eight job processing items, namely, "Simple Copy", "Simple Fax", "Simple Scan", "Print Resource", "Setting History", "Shared Folder", "Scan Save", and "Fax", are displayed as selectable job processing items. Other job processing items can be displayed by pressing the display switching button B21e. Note that the configuration of the job selection button B27 and the like exemplified in FIG. 15 is merely an example and is not limited to the matters described in FIG. 15.

[0145] The job status notification button B19e receives a notification instruction for the execution status of the job.

[0146] FIG. 16 relates to a fax job in which the setting history information selected by the user in step S190 of FIG. 14 is a transmission job, and is an operation example when receiving a mode selection as to whether to execute the fax job based on the setting history information in the normal mode or in the simple mode.

[0147] Note that this operation example corresponds to the process described in the flowchart of FIG. 14. Here, the control unit 11 will be described with the state of displaying the home screen W60 as "state 0", the state of displaying the simple setting screen W10 as "state 1", the state of displaying the setting history display screen W50 as "state 2", and the state of displaying the normal setting screen W20 as "state 3".

[0148] When the setting history display button B23e is pressed from state 0 in which the home screen W60 is displayed, the control unit 11 changes the display screen to the setting history display screen W50 (arrow 0-2 in the figure, state 0 → state 2).

[0149] In state 2, when the setting history information related to the fax job is selected by the user, the control unit 11 displays a mode selection screen W70 for receiving a mode selection as to whether to execute the fax job based on the setting history information in the normal mode or in the simple mode (corresponding to the processes of steps S190 to S220 in FIG. 14).

[0150] When the user selects the simple mode via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the simple setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1). If the setting history information selected by the user was a fax job executed in the normal mode and can be handled in the simple mode, it is also possible to configure the system so that the transition to the simple setting screen W10 is possible.

[0151] On the other hand, when the user selects the normal mode via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the normal setting screen W20 (arrow 2-3 in the figure, state 2 → state 3).

[0152] In the system settings, etc., if a setting is provided to prioritize either the simple mode or the normal mode, it is also possible to display the setting screen corresponding to the prioritized mode without displaying the mode selection screen W70 illustrated in FIG. 16. Further, if a setting value that cannot be changed by the user via the simple setting screen W10 is changed in the selected setting history information, that is, if the setting history information for which handling in the simple mode is not possible is selected, it is also possible to preferentially transition to the normal mode.

[0153] As illustrated in FIG. 16, the simple setting screen W10 and the normal setting screen W20 can be appropriately switched by pressing a switching instruction button (normal setting button B17a or simple setting button B17b) provided on each setting screen. Therefore, for example, when the user wants to change a setting value that cannot be changed in the simple mode, the user can easily and flexibly execute a fax job by switching the display screen (mode) from the simple setting screen W10 to the normal setting screen W20. FIG. 17 shows an example of operations when, in step S190 of FIG. 14, the setting history information selected by the user pertains to an image transmission job which is a transmission job, and a mode selection is received as to whether to execute the image transmission job based on the setting history information in the normal mode or in the simple mode.

[0154] Note that this example of operations corresponds to the processing described in the flowchart of FIG. 14. Here, the control unit 11 will be described with the state of displaying the home screen W60 as "state 0", the state of displaying the simple setting screen W30 as "state 1", the state of displaying the setting history display screen W50 as "state 2", and the state of displaying the normal setting screen W40 as "state 3".

[0155] When the setting history display button B23e is pressed from state 0 in which the home screen W60 is displayed, the control unit 11 changes the display screen to the setting history display screen W50 (arrow 0-2 in the figure, state 2, state 0 → state 2).

[0156] In state 2, when the user selects the setting history information related to the image transmission job, the control unit 11 displays a mode selection screen W70 for receiving a mode selection as to whether to execute the image transmission job based on the setting history information in the normal mode or in the simple mode (corresponding to the processing of steps S190 to S220 in FIG. 14).

[0157] When the simple mode is selected by the user via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the simple setting screen W30 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1). Note that when the setting history information selected by the user was an image transmission job executed in the normal mode, it is also possible to configure so that a transition to the simple setting screen W10 is possible when the simple mode can handle it.

[0158] On the other hand, when the normal mode is selected by the user via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the normal setting screen W40 (arrow 2-3 in the figure, state 2 → state 3).

[0159] In addition, in system settings or the like, when a setting is provided to prioritize either the simple mode or the normal mode, it is also possible to display the setting screen corresponding to the prioritized mode without displaying the mode selection screen W70 illustrated in FIG. 17. Further, in the selected setting history information, when a setting value that cannot be changed by the user via the simple setting screen W30 is changed, that is, when setting history information for which correspondence in the simple mode is impossible is selected, it is also possible to preferentially transition to the normal mode.

[0160] As illustrated in FIG. 17, the simple setting screen W30 and the normal setting screen W40 can be appropriately switched by pressing a switching instruction button (normal setting button B17c or simple setting button B17d) provided on each setting screen. Therefore, for example, when the user wants to change a setting value that cannot be changed in the simple mode, the user can easily and flexibly execute an image transmission job by switching the display screen (mode) from the simple setting screen W30 to the normal setting screen W40.

[0161] As described above, according to the second embodiment, when selecting the setting history information via the home screen as the reception screen, it is possible to select whether to execute a job in the normal mode via the normal setting screen or to execute a job in the simple mode via the simple setting screen. Therefore, it is easy for the user to execute a job based on the setting history information via the desired setting screen, and an image communication apparatus with high convenience can be provided.

[0162] [3 Third Embodiment] The third embodiment is a form in which when selecting setting history information via the simple setting screen, it is possible to select whether to execute a job in the normal mode via the normal setting screen or to execute a job in the simple mode via the simple setting screen.

[0163] The functional configuration of the multifunction device according to the third embodiment can be the same as the functional configuration of the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of the functional configuration of the multifunction device according to the third embodiment is omitted, and the same reference numerals as those of the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment are used for the description.

[0164] [3.1 Flow of processing] The flow of processing according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 18. FIG. 18 is a flowchart for explaining processing via the simple setting screen in which the simple mode related to the transmission job is selected by the user.

[0165] When the simple mode is selected by the user, the control unit 11 accepts the selection of the simple mode (step S270).

[0166] The control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13 a simple setting screen based on the accepted simple mode (step S280).

[0167] After the display of the simple setting screen, the control unit 11 accepts the selection of the setting history information by the user (step S290).

[0168] Next, the control unit 11 accepts the selection of the transmission mode for executing the transmission job related to the selected setting history information (step S290; Yes → step S300).

[0169] When the simple mode is selected by the user for executing the transmission job related to the setting history information, the control unit 11 displays the simple setting screen on the display unit 13 (step S310; Yes → step S320). Then, the control unit 11 executes a new transmission job and ends the processing (step S330).

[0170] On the other hand, when the simple mode is not selected by the user for the execution of the transmission job related to the setting history information, the control unit 11 displays the normal setting screen on the display unit 13 (step S310; No → step S340). Then, the control unit 11 executes a new transmission job and ends the process (step S330).

[0171] [3.2 Operation Example] FIG. 19 shows an operation example of selecting whether to execute a job in the normal mode via the normal setting screen W20 or in the simple mode via the simple setting screen W10 when the setting history information selected via the simple setting screen W10 is a job executed in either the normal mode or the simple mode in a state where the simple mode related to the fax job is selected by the user.

[0172] This operation example corresponds to the process described in the flowchart of FIG. 18. Here, the control unit 11 will be described with the state of displaying the simple setting screen W10 as "state 1" or "state 1a", the state of displaying the setting history display screen W50 as "state 2", and the state of displaying the normal setting screen W20 as "state 3".

[0173] When the setting history display button B23a is pressed from state 1 in which the simple setting screen W10 is displayed, the control unit 11 changes the display screen to the setting history display screen W50 (arrow 1-2 in the figure, state 1 → state 2).

[0174] In state 2, when the setting history information related to the fax job executed in either the normal mode or the simple mode by the user is selected, the control unit 11 displays a mode selection screen W70 that accepts a mode selection of whether to execute the fax job based on the setting history information in the normal mode or in the simple mode.

[0175] When the user selects the simple mode via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the simple setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1a in the figure, state 2 → state 1a). If the setting history information selected by the user was a fax job executed in the normal mode and can be handled in the simple mode, it is also possible to configure the system so that the transition to the simple setting screen W10 is possible.

[0176] On the other hand, when the user selects the normal mode via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the normal setting screen W20 (arrow 2-3 in the figure, state 2 → state 3).

[0177] In state 2, if the setting history information related to a fax job executed in the simple mode by the user is selected, the control unit 11 does not display the mode selection screen W70 and changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the simple setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1a in the figure, state 2 → state 1a).

[0178] FIG. 20 shows an example of an operation of selecting whether to execute a job in the normal mode via the normal setting screen W40 or a job in the simple mode via the simple setting screen W30 when the setting history information selected via the simple setting screen W30 is a job executed in either the normal mode or the simple mode in a state where the user has selected the simple mode related to image transmission.

[0179] This operation example corresponds to the process described in the flowchart of FIG. 18. Here, the state in which the control unit 11 displays the simple setting screen W30 is described as "state 1" or "state 1a", the state in which the setting history display screen W50 is displayed is described as "state 2", and the state in which the normal setting screen W40 is displayed is described as "state 3".

[0180] When the setting history display button B23c is pressed in state 1 where the simple setting screen W30 is displayed, the control unit 11 changes the display screen to the setting history display screen W50 (arrow 1-2 in the figure, state 1 → state 2).

[0181] In state 2, when the setting history information related to the image transmission job executed by the user in either the normal mode or the simple mode is selected, the control unit 11 displays a mode selection screen W70 for receiving a mode selection as to whether to execute the image transmission job based on the setting history information in the normal mode or in the simple mode.

[0182] When the simple mode is selected by the user via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the simple setting screen W30 (arrow 2-1a in the figure, state 2 → state 1a). Note that when the setting history information selected by the user is an image transmission job executed in the normal mode, it is also possible to configure so that the transition to the simple setting screen W30 is possible when the corresponding operation in the simple mode is possible.

[0183] On the other hand, when the normal mode is selected by the user via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the normal setting screen W40 (arrow 2-3 in the figure, state 2 → state 3).

[0184] Note that in state 2, when the setting history information related to the image transmission job executed by the user in the simple mode is selected, the control unit 11 does not display the mode selection screen W70 and changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the simple setting screen W30 (arrow 2-1a in the figure, state 2 → state 1a).

[0185] As described above, according to the third embodiment, when selecting the setting history information on the simple setting screen, it is possible to select whether to execute the job in the normal mode via the normal setting screen or to execute the job in the simple mode via the simple setting screen. Therefore, it is easy for the user to execute the job based on the setting history information via the desired setting screen, and an image communication apparatus with high convenience can be provided.

[0186] [4 Fourth Embodiment] The fourth embodiment is a form in which when selecting setting history information via the normal setting screen, it is possible to select whether to execute a job in the normal mode via the normal setting screen or to execute a job in the simple mode via the simple setting screen.

[0187] The functional configuration of the multifunction device according to the fourth embodiment can be the same as the functional configuration of the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of the functional configuration of the multifunction device according to the fourth embodiment is omitted, and the same reference numerals as those of the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment are used for the description.

[0188] [4.1 Flow of processing] The flow of processing according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 21. FIG. 21 is a flowchart for explaining the processing via the normal setting screen when the normal mode related to the transmission job is selected by the user. Note that the processing according to the fourth embodiment can be the same as the processing after step S290 described in FIG. 18 according to the third embodiment, except for some processing. Therefore, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same parts.

[0189] When the normal mode is selected by the user, the control unit 11 accepts the selection of the normal mode (step S350).

[0190] The control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13 the normal setting screen based on the accepted normal mode (step S360).

[0191] After the display of the normal setting screen, the control unit 11 accepts the selection of the setting history information by the user (step S290).

[0192] Next, the control unit 11 accepts the selection of the transmission mode for executing the transmission job related to the selected setting history information (step S300).

[0193] When the simple mode is selected for the execution of the transmission job related to the setting history information by the user, the control unit 11 displays the simple setting screen on the display unit 13 (step S310; Yes → step S320). Then, the control unit 11 executes a new transmission job and ends the process (step S330).

[0194] On the other hand, when the simple mode is not selected for the execution of the transmission job related to the setting history information by the user, the control unit 11 displays the normal setting screen on the display unit 13 (step S310; No → step S340). Then, the control unit 11 executes a new transmission job and ends the process (step S330).

[0195] [4.2 Operation Example] FIG. 22 shows an operation example of selecting whether to execute a job in the normal mode via the normal setting screen W20 or in the simple mode via the simple setting screen W10 when the setting history information selected via the normal setting screen W20 is a job executed in either the normal mode or the simple mode in a state where the normal mode related to the fax job is selected by the user.

[0196] This operation example corresponds to the process described in the flowchart of FIG. 21. Here, the control unit 11 will be described with the state of displaying the simple setting screen W10 as "state 1", the state of displaying the setting history display screen W50 as "state 2", and the state of displaying the normal setting screen W20 as "state 3" or "state 3a".

[0197] When the setting history display button B23b is pressed from the state 3 in which the normal setting screen W20 is displayed, the control unit 11 changes the display screen to the setting history display screen W50 (arrow 3-2 in the figure, state 3 → state 2).

[0198] In state 2, when the setting history information related to the fax job executed in either the normal mode or the simple mode by the user is selected, the control unit 11 displays a mode selection screen W70 that accepts a mode selection of whether to execute the fax job based on the setting history information in the normal mode or in the simple mode.

[0199] When the user selects the simple mode via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the simple setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1). If the setting history information selected by the user was a fax job executed in the normal mode and can be handled in the simple mode, it is also possible to configure it so that the transition to the simple setting screen W10 is possible.

[0200] On the other hand, when the user selects the normal mode via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the normal setting screen W20 (arrow 2-3a in the figure, state 2 → state 3a).

[0201] In state 2, when the setting history information related to a fax job executed by the user in the simple mode is selected, the control unit 11 does not display the mode selection screen W70 and changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the simple setting screen W10 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1).

[0202] FIG. 23 shows an operation example of selecting whether to execute a job in the normal mode via the normal setting screen W40 or a job in the simple mode via the simple setting screen W30 when the setting history information selected via the normal setting screen W40 is a job executed in either the normal mode or the simple mode in a state where the user has selected the normal mode related to image transmission.

[0203] This operation example corresponds to the process described in the flowchart of FIG. 21. Here, the state where the control unit 11 displays the simple setting screen W30 is described as "state 1", the state where the setting history display screen W50 is displayed is described as "state 2", and the state where the normal setting screen W40 is displayed is described as "state 3" or "state 3a".

[0204] When the setting history display button B23d is pressed from the state 3 in which the normal setting screen W40 is displayed, the control unit 11 changes the display screen to the setting history display screen W50 (arrow 3-2 in the figure, state 3 → state 2).

[0205] In state 2, when the setting history information related to the image transmission job executed in either the normal mode or the simple mode by the user is selected, the control unit 11 displays a mode selection screen W70 that accepts a mode selection of whether to execute the image transmission job based on the setting history information in the normal mode or in the simple mode.

[0206] When the simple mode is selected by the user via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the simple setting screen W30 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1). Note that when the setting history information selected by the user was an image transmission job executed in the normal mode, it is also possible to configure so that a transition to the simple setting screen W10 is possible when the simple mode can handle it.

[0207] On the other hand, when the normal mode is selected by the user via the mode selection screen W70, the control unit 11 changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the normal setting screen W40 (arrow 2-3a in the figure, state 2 → state 3a).

[0208] In state 2, when the setting history information related to the image transmission job executed in the simple mode by the user is selected, the control unit 11 does not display the mode selection screen W70 and changes the display screen from the setting history display screen W50 to the simple setting screen W30 (arrow 2-1 in the figure, state 2 → state 1).

[0209] As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, when selecting setting history information on the normal setting screen, it is possible to select whether to execute a job in the normal mode via the normal setting screen or to execute a job in the simple mode via the simple setting screen. Therefore, it is easy for the user to execute a job based on the setting history information via the desired setting screen, and an image communication apparatus with high convenience can be provided.

[0210] [5 Fifth Embodiment] The fifth embodiment is a form in which, when using the setting history information related to the function of sending the same report (the function of simultaneously sending to the destinations of different sending methods (for example, fax, image transmission, Internet fax, saving to a shared folder, etc.)), the display screen is transitioned to the setting screen of the sending method with the largest number of destinations stored in the setting history information according to the number of destinations stored in the setting history information. In the description of the fifth embodiment, a fax job is taken as an example of the first sending method, and an image transmission (E-mail transmission) job is taken as an example of the second sending method.

[0211] The functional configuration of the multifunction device according to the fifth embodiment can be the same as the functional configuration of the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of the functional configuration of the multifunction device according to the fifth embodiment is omitted, and the same reference numerals as those of the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment are used for the description.

[0212] [5.1 Flow of Processing] The flow of processing according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 24. The control unit 11 displays the home screen on the display unit 13 (step S370). When an instruction to display the setting history display screen is input from the user (step S380), the control unit 11 displays the setting history display screen on the display unit 13.

[0213] Next, the control unit 11 accepts the user's selection of the setting history information (step S390). The control unit 11 determines whether the setting history information selected by the user pertains to the broadcast transmission job (step S400). If the selected setting history information pertains to the broadcast transmission job, the control unit 11 checks and compares the number of destinations for fax as the first transmission method related to the broadcast transmission and image transmission (E-mail transmission) as the second transmission method (step S400; Yes → step S410).

[0214] As a result of comparing the number of destinations, if it is determined that the number of destinations related to fax is larger, the control unit 11 displays the fax setting screen (step S420; Yes → step S430). Then, the control unit 11 executes the fax job (step S440) and ends the process.

[0215] On the other hand, as a result of comparing the number of destinations, if it is determined that the number of destinations related to E-mail transmission is larger, the control unit 11 displays the E-mail setting screen (step S420; No → step S460). Then, the control unit 11 executes the E-mail transmission job (step S470) and ends the process.

[0216] If the selected setting history information does not pertain to the broadcast transmission job, the control unit 11 applies the setting history information to the setting screen of the job related to the selected setting history information and executes the job based on the user's instruction (step S400; No → step S450).

[0217] [5.2 Operation Example] FIG. 25 is an operation example in which, when using the setting history information related to the broadcast transmission, the display screen transitions to the setting screen of the transmission method with the largest number of destinations stored in the setting history information according to the number of destinations stored in the setting history information.

[0218] This operation example corresponds to the process described in the flowchart of FIG. 24. Here, the control unit 11 will explain the state of displaying the home screen W60 as "state 0", the state of displaying the setting history display screen W50 as "state 2", the state of displaying the fax setting screen (displayed as the normal setting screen) W20 as "state 4", and the state of displaying the E-mail setting screen (displayed as the normal setting screen) W40 as "state 5".

[0219] When the setting history display button B23e is pressed from state 0 in which the home screen W60 is displayed, the control unit 11 transitions the display screen to the setting history display screen W50 (arrow 0-2 in the figure, state 0 → state 2).

[0220] In state 2, when the user selects the broadcast transmission job, the control unit 11 transitions the display screen to either the fax setting screen W20 (arrow 2-4, state 2 → state 4) or the E-mail setting screen W40 (arrow 2-5, state 2 → state 5) according to the number of destinations for each transmission method (fax or E-mail).

[0221] [5.3 Modification Example] In the modification example, a form will be described in which the operation screen being operated by the user is preferentially displayed regardless of the number of destinations for each transmission method related to the broadcast transmission job.

[0222] FIG. 26 is an operation example when the operation screen being operated by the user is preferentially displayed regardless of the number of destinations for each transmission method related to the broadcast transmission job.

[0223] In this operation example, the control unit 11 does not compare the number of destinations for each transmission method related to the broadcast transmission job. The control unit 11 displays the setting screen for each transmission method that has received the setting history display instruction. In the description here, the state in which the control unit 11 displays the setting history display screen W50 will be explained as "state 2", the state in which the fax setting screen W20 is displayed as "state 4 or state 4a", and the state in which the E-mail setting screen W40 is displayed as "state 5".

[0224] When the setting history display button B23b is pressed from the state 4 in which the fax setting screen W20 is displayed, the control unit 11 changes the display screen to the setting history display screen W50 (arrow 4-2 in the figure, state 4 → state 2).

[0225] In state 2, when the user selects the broadcast transmission job, the control unit 11 changes the display screen to the fax setting screen W20 that has received the display instruction on the setting history display screen W50 regardless of the number of destinations for each transmission method related to the broadcast transmission job (arrow 2-4a, state 2 → state 4a), and does not change the display screen to the E-mail setting screen W40 (arrow 2-5, state 2 → state 5).

[0226] As described above, according to the fifth embodiment, when using the setting history information related to the broadcast transmission, the display screen is changed to the setting screen of each transmission method according to the number of destinations related to the setting history information or the operation screen operated by the user. Therefore, it is easy to execute a job based on the setting history information via the setting screen desired by the user, and an image communication apparatus with high convenience can be provided.

[0227] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible. That is, embodiments obtained by appropriately combining technical means modified within the scope not departing from the gist of the present invention are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0228] In addition, although the above-described embodiments have parts that are separately described for convenience of explanation, it goes without saying that they may be combined and executed within a technically possible range.

[0229] In addition, the program that operates in each device in the embodiment is a program that controls a CPU or the like (a program that causes a computer to function) so as to realize the functions of the above-described embodiments. The information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (for example, RAM) during the processing, and then stored in a storage device such as various ROMs and HDDs, and read out by the CPU as necessary for correction and writing.

[0230] Here, as the recording medium for storing the program, any of a semiconductor medium (e.g., ROM, non-volatile memory card, etc.), an optical recording medium or magneto-optical recording medium (e.g., DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), MO (Magneto Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), CD (Compact Disc), BD (Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disk, etc.)), a magnetic recording medium (e.g., magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.) may be used. Further, by executing the loaded program, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also the functions of the present invention may be realized by processing in cooperation with an operating system or other application programs, etc. based on the instructions of the program.

[0231] Also, when distributing to the market, the program can be stored in a portable recording medium for distribution, or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the storage device of the server computer is of course included in the present invention.

Explanation of Signs

[0232] 10 Multifunction device 11 Control unit 13 Display unit 15 Operation input unit 17 Communication unit 19 Image forming unit 21 Image reading unit 23 Storage unit 231 Job execution program 232 Setting history information processing program 233 Display processing program 234 Mode determination program 235 Set value storage area 236 Setting history information storage area 237 Display content storage area 25 Paper feeding unit 27 Paper discharging unit

Claims

1. A communication unit that communicates with other devices according to an operation mode; A history management unit that manages the operation mode and the history of the communication unit; And a control unit that performs control to display the history, The control unit, When the first operation mode related to the setting screen that has received the display instruction of the history is different from the second operation mode associated with the selected history, and when the job associated with the history can be executed in the first operation mode, the image communication apparatus is characterized in that a setting screen corresponding to the first operation mode is displayed.

2. The second operation mode is a normal mode for executing the job via a normal setting screen, and the first operation mode is a simple mode for executing the job via a simple setting screen that simplifies the display content of the normal setting screen. The image communication apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that.

3. The control unit displays a reception screen for receiving the display instruction of the history, and when the selected history is related to the job executed in either the normal mode or the simple mode, a selection screen for prompting selection of a setting screen of either the normal mode or the simple mode is displayed. The image communication apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that.

4. The reception screen has display instruction input means for the history. The image communication apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that.

5. The control unit displays the setting screen related to either the normal mode or the simple mode, and when the selected history via the setting screen is related to the job executed in either the normal mode or the simple mode, a selection screen for prompting selection of either the normal mode or the simple mode is displayed. The image communication apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that.

6. The image communication apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the setting screen includes a screen for accepting selection or input of a fax number.

7. The image communication apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the setting screen includes a screen for accepting selection or input of an email address.

8. The image communication apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the communication method of the communication unit is either facsimile communication or email transmission.

9. A communication unit capable of communicating with other devices using a first transmission method and a second transmission method different from the first transmission method, A history management unit that manages the history of the communication unit as the first transmission method or the second transmission method when broadcast transmission is performed, And a control unit that performs control to display the history, The control unit, When receiving a display instruction for the history related to the broadcast transmission, compares the destination in the first transmission method recorded in the history with the destination in the second transmission method, and displays a setting screen according to the transmission method with more destinations. An image communication apparatus characterized by the above.

10. A communication step of communicating with other devices according to an operation mode, A history management step of managing the history of the operation mode and the communication step, And a control step of displaying the history, In the control step, When the first operation mode related to the setting screen for receiving the display instruction of the history is different from the second operation mode associated with the selected history, and when a job can be executed in the second operation mode associated with the history in the first operation mode, a setting screen according to the first operation mode is displayed. A control method for an image communication apparatus characterized by the above.

11. A communication process capable of communicating with other devices using a first transmission method and a second transmission method different from the first transmission method, A history management process that manages the history of the communication process, using the first transmission method or the second transmission method as the transmission method when performing the broadcast transmission, And a control process that performs control to display the history regarding the broadcast transmission. In the control process, When receiving an instruction to display the history, compare the destination in the first transmission method and the destination in the second transmission method recorded in the history, and display a setting screen according to the transmission method with more destinations. A control method for an image communication device characterized by this.

Images