Image processing apparatus

Abstract

To provide, in an image processing system having a special function with a setting capable of switching validity and invalidity, a technique for notifying a user that a trial mode for the special function has been set.SOLUTION: An MFP 1 comprises function programs 22-24 which are additional functions, and stores function switches 25-27 that indicate whether to validate or invalidate the additional functions. A CPU 11, when accepting an enabling instruction to enable the additional functions, can utilize the additional functions by forcing the function switches to be validated, and within a validity period of the trial mode after accepting a start instruction of the trial mode, can utilize the additional functions even if the function switches are invalid. Furthermore, the CPU 11, when a home screen is displayed within the valid period of the trial mode, forces a user IF 13 to display trial mode information indicating that the trial mode is within the valid period.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technical field disclosed in this specification relates to an image processing apparatus equipped with a special function having a setting that can be switched between valid and invalid.

Background Art

[0002] Some image processing apparatuses are equipped with a special function (solution) having a setting that can be switched between valid and invalid. The special function is set to be invalid at the time of factory shipment of the image processing apparatus. Thereafter, for example, when a user who has purchased the image processing apparatus concludes a contract with the seller of the image processing apparatus to use the special function, a command to enable the special function is input to the image processing apparatus by the seller of the image processing apparatus, and processing based on the special function becomes executable. As a document disclosing a technique related to an image processing apparatus equipped with such a special function, for example, there is Patent Document 1.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Some users have a desire to try the special function before concluding a contract to use it. Therefore, it is conceivable to set a trial mode in the image processing apparatus to temporarily enable the special function. During the valid period of this trial mode, the special function becomes available, but it is difficult for the user to grasp whether the use of the special function is due to the trial mode. Patent Document 1 does not disclose a technique for trying a special function, and there is room for improvement.

[0005] This specification discloses a technique for notifying a user that a trial mode related to a special function is set in an image processing apparatus equipped with a special function having a setting that can be switched between valid and invalid.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0006] An image processing apparatus made for solving this problem is an image processing apparatus including an image processing unit, a user interface, a memory, and a computer. The image processing apparatus has a plurality of functions including a special function. Function information indicating whether to enable or disable the special function is stored in the memory. The function information indicates the invalidation of the special function at the time of factory shipment of the image processing apparatus. When the computer receives a valid instruction to enable the special function, the computer changes the function information stored in the memory to information indicating the enablement of the special function, thereby making the special function available. Further, when the computer receives a start instruction to start a trial mode, the computer executes a start process to start the trial mode, so that even if the function information indicates the invalidation of the special function, the special function is made available within the valid period of the trial mode. After starting the trial mode, the computer ends the trial mode based on the expiration of the valid period of the trial mode. Further, at a first timing within the valid period of the trial mode, the computer executes a first display process for causing the user interface to display trial mode information indicating that it is within the valid period of the trial mode. This is the gist of the invention.

[0007] An image processing system, a control method, a computer program, and a computer-readable storage medium storing the program for realizing the functions of the above image processing apparatus are also novel and useful.

Effects of the Invention

[0008] According to the image processing apparatus disclosed in this specification, trial mode information is displayed on the user interface at a first timing within the valid period of the trial mode. Thereby, the user can grasp that the special function is available because the trial mode is set in the image processing apparatus.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0009]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, a multifunction peripheral (hereinafter referred to as "MFP") according to an embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0011] The MFP1 of this embodiment is a device capable of executing various image processing functions such as printing and scanning. MFP1 is an example of an image processing device. As shown in FIG. 1, the MFP1 of this embodiment includes a controller 10 including a CPU 11 and a memory 12. The CPU 11 is an example of a computer. Further, the MFP1 includes a user interface (hereinafter referred to as "user IF") 13, a communication interface (hereinafter referred to as "communication IF") 14, a printing engine 15, and a scanner 16, and these are electrically connected to the controller 10. Both the printing engine 15 and the scanner 16 are examples of an image processing unit.

[0012] The CPU 11 executes various processes according to the program read from the memory 12 and based on the user's operation. As shown in FIG. 1, the memory 12 stores various programs and various information including a basic program 21, a plurality of function programs 22 to 24, a plurality of function switches 25 to 27, and a trial switch 28. The memory 12 is also used as a work area when various processes are executed. The buffer included in the CPU 11 is also an example of a memory.

[0013] The MFP1 of this embodiment includes a touch panel 131 having a screen display function and an operation reception function, a back key 132, a home key 133, and a stop key 134, and is provided with a user IF13. The back key 132, the home key 133, and the stop key 134 are hardware keys. The user IF13 may further include other hardware keys, LED lamps, speakers, etc. The display content displayed on the touch panel 131 will be described later.

[0014] The communication IF14 includes at least a configuration connectable to the Internet 200 and includes hardware for communicating with an external device. The communication standard of the communication IF14 is, for example, Ethernet (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), USB, etc. The MFP1 may be provided with a plurality of communication IF14 corresponding to a plurality of communication standards.

[0015] The printing engine 15 includes a configuration for printing an image based on image data on a printing medium such as a sheet. The image forming method of the printing engine 15 is, for example, an electrophotographic method or an inkjet method. The scanner 16 includes a configuration for reading an image of an original and acquiring image data.

[0016] The MFP1 of this embodiment can execute various functions using the printing engine 15 and the scanner 16 by executing the basic program 21 and the function programs 22 to 24. The basic program 21 is a program set to be executable since the factory shipment of the MFP1, and is a program for causing the MFP1 to execute basic functions which are basic functions of the MFP1. The basic functions include, for example, a copy function, a scan function, and a facsimile function.

[0017] On the one hand, the function programs 22 to 24 are programs for causing the MFP 1 to execute additional functions, which are special functions that can be added. The MFP 1 in this embodiment has the function programs 22 to 24 incorporated therein at the time of factory shipment and is equipped with a plurality of additional functions. Corresponding function switches 25 to 27 are provided for the function programs 22 to 24, and whether the additional functions by the corresponding function programs 22 to 24 are valid or invalid is set according to the states of the function switches 25 to 27. For example, if the state of the function switch 25 is on, the MFP 1 can receive an instruction to execute the function by the function program 22 and can execute the function. If the state of the function switch 25 is off, the MFP 1 does not receive an instruction to execute the function. The function switches 25 to 27 are an example of function information.

[0018] At the time of factory shipment of the MFP 1, all of the function switches 25 to 27 are off, and all of the additional functions are set to be invalid. Then, when receiving an instruction to activate the functions of the function programs 22 to 24 after factory shipment, the MFP 1 can execute the additional functions by switching the function switches 25 to 27 to on. By pre-installing the programs of the additional functions in the MFP 1 so that an activation instruction can be received, added value can be added to the MFP 1, and the additional procedure of the additional functions becomes simple. Also, by enabling only the functions necessary for the user who uses the MFP 1, complication of functions can be prevented.

[0019] Note that in order for the user of the MFP 1 to use the functions of the function programs 22 to 24, it is necessary to conclude a contract with a vendor or the like for each function to be used. For example, by the user concluding a contract with the vendor to use the additional function, an activation command for activating the function is provided from the vendor. When the provided activation command is input to the MFP 1, the MFP 1 turns on the switch corresponding to the activated function and can receive an execution instruction for the function.

[0020] Examples of additional functions that can be executed by the function programs 22 to 24 include a secure print function, a custom UI function, a barcode print function, and a cloud storage function. The secure print function is a function that does not start printing immediately when image data is received, but instead stores the image data in the memory 12 once and starts printing after successful authentication such as user authentication. The custom UI function is a function that changes the arrangement and display form of soft keys and the like displayed on the user IF 13 according to the user's preference. The barcode print function is a function that creates a barcode based on specified data and prints the created barcode. The cloud storage function is a function that reads the image of the document, acquires the image data, transmits it via the communication IF 14, and stores it in a storage area on the cloud. Note that the types of function programs installed in the MFP 1 at the time of factory shipment are determined in advance for each model of the MFP 1, but additional functions that can be installed after factory shipment may be provided.

[0021] The trial switch 28 is a switch that sets the state of the trial mode for trying additional functions in the MFP 1 of this embodiment. The trial mode is a mode that makes all the function programs 22 to 24 stored in the memory 12 available for use during the valid period even for functions for which the function switches 25 to 27 are off. If it is within the valid period of the trial mode, the user can try all the additional functions regardless of whether the function programs 22 to 24 are enabled. Note that the trial mode of this embodiment is a mode that can be accepted only once for each device. The states indicated by the trial switch 28 are "in execution", "not executed", and "executed". At the time of factory shipment of the MFP 1, the trial switch 28 is in the "not executed" state.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 1, the MFP 1 of this embodiment can be connected to the Internet 200 via the communication IF 14 and can be connected to the server 3 by using the Internet 200. The server 3 is managed by, for example, the vendor of the MFP 1 and manages the execution status of the trial mode in each device such as the MFP 1.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 1, the server 3 of this embodiment includes a controller 30 including a CPU 31 and a memory 32, and a communication IF 34. Note that the controllers 10 and 30 in FIG. 1 are general terms for the hardware and software used for controlling the MFP 1 and the server 3, and do not necessarily represent a single piece of hardware actually existing in the MFP 1 and the server 3.

[0024] The CPU 31 executes various processes according to the program read from the memory 32 and based on the operations of the operator. As shown in FIG. 1, the memory 32 stores various programs and various data including an OS 41, a trial management program 42, and a trial database (hereinafter referred to as "trial DB") 43. The OS 41 is, for example, Windows (registered trademark), macOS (registered trademark), or Linux (registered trademark). The buffer included in the CPU 31 is also an example of a memory. The server 3 of this embodiment manages the trials of additional functions in each device such as the MFP 1 by executing the trial management program 42.

[0025] Note that an example of the memories 12 and 32 is not limited to a ROM, a RAM, an HDD, etc. built in the MFP 1 and the server 3, and may be a storage medium readable and writable by the CPUs 11 and 31. A computer-readable storage medium is a non-transitory medium. Non-transitory media include, in addition to the above examples, recording media such as CD-ROMs and DVD-ROMs. Also, non-transitory media are tangible media. On the other hand, an electrical signal that conveys a program downloaded from a server on the Internet or the like is a computer-readable signal medium, which is a type of computer-readable medium, but is not included in non-transitory computer-readable storage media.

[0026] The communication IF34 includes hardware for communicating with external devices such as the MFP1 via the Internet 200. The communication standards of the communication IF34 are Ethernet (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), etc. The server 3 may be provided with a plurality of communication IFs 14 corresponding to a plurality of communication standards.

[0027] Next, the procedures of each process related to the trial mode of the MFP1 will be described with reference to a sequence diagram or the like. Note that the following processes basically show the processes of the CPUs 11 and 31 according to the instructions described in the program. That is, the processes such as "judgment", "extraction", "selection", "calculation", "decision", "specification", "acquisition", "reception", and "control" in the following description represent the processes of the CPUs 11 and 31. The processes by each CPU also include hardware control using the OS API. In this specification, the description of the OS is omitted and the operations of each program are described. That is, in the following description, the description to the effect that "program B controls hardware C" may refer to "program B controls hardware C using the OS API". Also, the processes of the CPUs 11 and 31 according to the instructions described in the program may be described in an abbreviated form of words. For example, it may be described as "performed by the CPU 11". Also, the processes of the CPUs 11 and 31 according to the instructions described in the program may be described in an abbreviated form of words omitting the CPU, such as "performed by program A".

[0028] Note that "acquisition" is used as a concept that does not necessarily require a request. That is, the process of the CPUs 11 and 31 receiving data without making a request is also included in the concept of "the CPU acquires data". Also, the "data" in this specification is represented by a bit string readable by a computer. And data having the same substantial meaning content but different formats shall be treated as the same data. The same applies to the "information" in this specification. Also, "request" and "instruct" are concepts indicating outputting information indicating what is being requested or what is being instructed to the other party. Also, the information indicating what is being requested or what is being instructed is simply referred to as "request" and "instruct".

[0029] Also, the process by which the CPUs 11 and 31 determine whether information A indicates that matter B is the case may be conceptually described as "determine whether matter B is the case from information A". The process by which the CPUs 11 and 31 determine whether information A indicates that matter B is the case or whether it indicates that matter C is the case may be conceptually described as "determine whether matter B or matter C is the case from information A".

[0030] First, the start procedure for starting the trial mode on the MFP 1 will be described with reference to the sequence diagram in FIG. 2. The user inputs a start instruction (A01), which is an instruction to start the trial mode, via the user IF 13 of the MFP 1. Note that in A01, the user who inputs the start instruction for the trial mode is not limited to the user who uses the MFP 1. For example, it may be a service person or a salesperson in charge of after-sales service for the sold MFP. The MFP 1 accesses the server 3 upon receiving the input of the start instruction and transmits a start request for the trial mode (A02). The MFP 1 also transmits its own device identification information and model information together with the start request in A02.

[0031] Upon receiving the start request for the trial mode, the server 3 sets the valid period of the trial mode on the MFP 1 based on the date and time at that point (A03). Note that the length of the valid period may be the same for all devices, or it may vary according to the model information, or according to the user of the device, the installation area, etc. When the length of the valid period is determined according to the user of the device, the installation area, etc., the MFP 1 adds the information necessary for determining the valid period to the start request and transmits it. Also, the server 3 may accept the specification of the start date of the trial mode as a start request for the trial mode, and in that case, sets the valid period based on the specified start date.

[0032] The server 3 associates the set expiration period with the identification information of the device targeted by the trial mode and stores it in the trial DB 43 in the memory 32 (A04). An example of the information stored in the trial DB 43 is shown in FIG. 3. In the trial DB 43, for example, for each sequential trial number, information such as device ID, model name, trial start date, and trial end date is stored in association. The device ID is identification information that distinguishes each individual device targeted by the trial mode, and is, for example, a MAC address or a serial number. The model name is information indicating the model of the device targeted by the trial mode. The trial start date is the date when the trial mode is started, and the trial end date is the date after a predetermined expiration period from the trial start date. That is, the expiration period of the trial mode in this device is the period from the trial start date to the trial end date.

[0033] The server 3 adds a new record to the trial DB 43 and stores the information of the MFP1 in A04. Further, the server 3 transmits a start command, which is a command to start the trial mode, to the MFP1 that is the transmission source of the start request (A05). The start command is a command that includes an instruction to set the trial switch 28 to "in execution" in the MFP1. The start command may include the identification information of the MFP1, which is the device to execute the trial. The MFP1 sets the trial switch 28 to "in execution" upon receiving the start command (A06) and enters the trial mode. A02 and A06 are an example of the start process. As a result, as described above, the user of the MFP1 can try the additional functions by the function programs 22 to 24.

[0034] Note that the MFP1 executes A06 when the state of the trial switch 28 is "not executed". If the MFP1 has already executed the trial mode, as will be described later, the state of the trial switch 28 is "executed". In that case, the MFP1 does not accept the instruction of A01, or does not transmit a start request to the server 3 even if it accepts it.

[0035] Instead of sending the start request for the A02 trial mode from the MFP1, it is also possible to send it using a dedicated application program (hereinafter referred to as the "dedicated app") incorporated in another device such as a personal computer or a smartphone. In that case, the device that executes the dedicated app sends a start request including the information of the MFP1 to the server 3, receives a start command including the information of the MFP1 from the server 3, and sends the received start command to the MFP1. Alternatively, the dedicated app may display the received start command and allow the person in charge who uses the dedicated app to input the displayed start command into the MFP1.

[0036] The MFP1 of this embodiment displays the home screen 50 as shown in FIG. 4 on the user IF13 as a screen waiting for an operation by the user. The home screen 50 is displayed on the entire surface of the touch panel 131 in a state of waiting for an operation by the user, such as after the MFP1 is started up, after a job is completed, or when returning from the power saving mode. Prior to displaying the home screen 50, the MFP1 checks whether the trial switch 28 is "in execution" or whether the function switches 25 to 27 are turned on (A10). Based on the state of each switch confirmed in A10, the MFP1 determines the display content of the home screen 50 and displays the determined home screen 50 on the user IF13 (A11). The home screen 50 is an example of the first standby screen and the second standby screen.

[0037] The home screen 50 shown in FIG. 4 includes a function icon area 501, a setting icon area 502, and a notification area 503, as shown by the dashed line in the figure. Note that the dashed line is attached for the purpose of explaining the area and is not included in the display of the home screen 50. Hereinafter, as shown by the arrows in the figure, the arrangement of each area will be described using the up, down, left, and right directions.

[0038] The function icon area 501 is located at the center of the touch panel 131 and is an area for displaying function icons that are icons for receiving settings or display instructions regarding executable functions. The function icon is an example of a first type of operator. The MFP1 displays function icons of available functions in the function icon area 501 based on the result of A10. The MFP1 of this embodiment can simultaneously display three function icons in the left - right direction of the function icon area 501. When the number of types of executable functions is more than three, the function icon area 501 is displayed so as to be scrollable in the left - right direction.

[0039] The setting icon area 502 is located below the function icon area 501 and is an area for displaying setting icons that are icons for receiving instructions for settings independent of functions or display instructions for information. The setting icon is an example of a second type of operator. The MFP1 of this embodiment accepts settings related to communication and trays and displays information related to the trial mode and the state of the device based on operations on the setting icons.

[0040] The notification area 503 is located above the function icon area 501 and is an area where characters and marks indicating information to be notified can be displayed. The MFP1 displays, as necessary, warnings to the user, notifications indicating the state of the MFP1, and information such as the current date and time in the notification area 503. The size of the notification area 503 of the MFP1 of this embodiment is about 10 characters for one line of text, and the MFP1 cannot simultaneously display a plurality of notifications and information in the notification area 503.

[0041] Note that, as shown in FIG. 4, the MFP1 of this embodiment includes a horizontally long rectangular touch panel 131 whose horizontal direction is longer than the vertical direction. The horizontal direction of each region is the longitudinal direction, and the vertical direction is the short direction. The longitudinal length of the function icon region 501 and the setting icon region 502 is equal to the longitudinal length of the home screen 50. Also, the short direction length of each region is the largest in the function icon region 501, followed by the setting icon region 502, and the notification region 503 is the smallest. And the ratio of the longitudinal length of the notification region 503 to the short direction length is larger than the ratio of the longitudinal length of the home screen 50 to the short direction length.

[0042] On the displayed home screen 50, the MFP1 receives (A12) the user's operations such as selection of the process to be executed via the user IF13. Note that the user who performs the operation of A12 may be a user different from the user who gives the instruction of A01. When one of the icons in the function icon region 501 is operated in A12, the MFP1 determines the display content of the setting screen for receiving the setting related to the function selected in A12 based on the state of each switch confirmed in A10, and displays the determined setting screen on the user IF13 (A13). The setting screen is an example of the first screen. Note that the additional functions include functions that are added to the settings related to each function and can be selected on the setting screen.

[0043] Regarding the basic functions and the additional functions for which the function switches 25 to 27 are on (alt: [functions that are on]), the MFP1 displays them selectably on the home screen 50 or each setting screen (A14). For example, when the trial switch 28 is "in execution" by A06, the MFP1 displays all the additional functions selectably in the same manner as when all the function switches 25 to 27 are on. The user can select the functions and settings to be executed from the selectably displayed functions and settings and input an execution instruction to the MFP1 (A15). The MFP1 executes the instructed function (A16).

[0044] On the other hand, when the trial switch 28 is set to "not executed" or "already executed", for the additional functions in which the function switches 25 to 27 are off (alt: [Off functions]), the MFP 1 does not display them on the home screen 50 or each setting screen (A17). Since the user cannot select the functions that are not displayed, the additional functions cannot be used. Note that instead of not displaying them, the MFP 1 may display them as unselectable.

[0045] Next, the procedure for enabling the additional functions of the MFP 1 will be described with reference to the sequence diagram in FIG. 5. When the user who uses the MFP 1 concludes a contract for enabling the additional functions, the salesperson or the like uses a dedicated program for the contract to perform the procedure for enabling the additional functions of the MFP 1. This contract program 5 may be a part of the aforementioned dedicated application for requesting the start of the trial mode, or may be incorporated in the MFP 1. Note that the MFP 1 in this embodiment can enable the additional functions even within the valid period of the trial mode, and the enabled additional functions can be continuously used even after the trial mode ends.

[0046] The salesperson or the like starts the contract program 5, specifies the types of additional functions to be enabled and the identification information of the MFP 1, and inputs an enable instruction (B01). The device executing the contract program 5 accesses the server 3 and transmits an enable request based on the received enable instruction (B02). The server 3 generates an enable command based on the received enable request and transmits the generated enable command to the device that is the source of the information (B03). The enable command includes the identification information of the MFP 1.

[0047] The device executing the contract program 5 transmits the received activation command to the MFP1 (B05). As a result, the activation command is input to the MFP1. The activation command may be input to the MFP1 via a USB memory or the like, or may be input to the MFP1 by manual input by the person in charge. Also, when the contract program 5 is incorporated in the MFP1, the MFP1 receives the activation command from the server 3. The MFP1 turns on the corresponding function switches 25 to 27 based on the received activation command (B06).

[0048] Next, the procedure for managing the validity period of the trial mode will be described with reference to the sequence diagram of FIG. 6. In this embodiment, the validity period of the trial mode of each device is managed by the server 3. The MFP1 executes a process for checking the validity period at a predetermined regular timing such as once a day or every few hours within the period of the trial mode.

[0049] As a process for period management, the MFP1 determines whether it is connected to the Internet 200 (C01). If it is determined that it is connected (alt: [Connected]), the MFP1 accesses the server 3 via the Internet 200 and transmits a confirmation command for checking whether it is within the validity period to the server 3 (C02). The confirmation command includes the identification information of the MFP1.

[0050] When the server 3 receives the confirmation command, it reads out the trial start date and the trial end date stored in the trial DB43 in association with the identification information included in the confirmation command, and compares the read date and time with the current date and time to determine whether it is within the validity period of the trial mode (C03). Then, the server 3 transmits response information indicating the determination result to the MFP1, which is the device that transmitted the confirmation command (C04).

[0051] When the server 3 of this embodiment receives a confirmation command, it transmits, as response information, any one of in-period information indicating that the remaining period of validity is not shorter than the threshold, out-of-period information indicating that the period of validity has already ended, and near-expiration information indicating that the remaining period of validity is shorter than the threshold. For example, when the period of validity is 60 days, the server 3 transmits in-period information from the first day to the 44th day from the start date of the trial, near-expiration information from the 45th day to the 59th day, and out-of-period information after the 60th day.

[0052] Based on the response information received from the server 3, the MFP1 detects the remaining information of the period of validity and stores, in the memory 12, status information which is information indicating any one of within the period, outside the period, or near the end (C05). When status information indicating within the period or near the end of the trial mode is stored in the memory 12, the MFP1 re-executes the process for confirming the period of validity at the next regular timing. Note that the status information is not stored in the memory 12 until a start command for starting the trial mode is received (A05 in FIG. 2).

[0053] When the response information received from the server 3 is out-of-period information (alt: [Outside the period]), the MFP1 displays an end notification screen for notifying that the trial mode has ended (C11). For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the end notification screen 51 includes a restart button 511 and is displayed on the entire surface of the touch panel 131. C11 is an example of the second display process, the timing for executing C11 is an example of the third timing, and the end notification screen 51 is an example of the end information.

[0054] Note that the MFP1 of this embodiment does not end the trial mode until it is restarted even when out-of-period information is received from the server 3. That is, even outside the period of validity, there is a period during which additional functions can be executed. However, outside the period of validity, the end notification screen 51 is displayed on the user IF13, so that the user can recognize that the period of validity of the trial mode has ended. Thereby, it is possible to reduce the user's confusion when the trial mode is ended and the additional functions become unavailable.

[0055] When the restart button 511 is operated by the user (C12), the MFP 1 ends the trial mode and restarts. Specifically, before restarting, the MFP 1 sends a notification of the end of the trial including its own identification information to the server 3 (C13). Based on the received notification of the end of the trial, the server 3 deletes the information of the MFP 1 stored in the trial DB 43 (C14). Also, the MFP 1 makes a setting to change the trial switch 28 to "executed" (C15), deletes the status information indicating outside the period stored in C05 (C16), and restarts (C17). By restarting, the change of the trial switch 28 is reflected, and the MFP 1 will not enter the trial mode again and will not check the validity period hereafter. As described above, even when all additional functions are enabled, the MFP 1 executes the procedure for ending the trial mode (C13 to C16). The timing of executing the procedure for ending the trial mode is an example of the second timing.

[0056] Note that in the procedure for ending the trial mode, the MFP 1 initializes the information regarding the functions that are not enabled among the various types of information set within the period of the trial mode. For example, when a trial instruction for the custom UI function is received during the trial mode, data for the custom UI provided by the vendor is acquired, and the acquired information is stored in the memory 12 as information on the custom UI function. If the custom UI function is enabled and the information on the custom UI function is stored in the memory 12, the MFP 1 reads out the data when displaying the home screen and displays the home screen using the read data.

[0057] If the custom UI function is used during the trial mode and the trial mode is ended without the custom UI function being enabled, the MFP 1 deletes the information on the custom UI function stored in the memory 12. On the other hand, if the custom UI function is enabled when ending the trial mode, the MFP 1 does not delete the information on the custom UI function stored in the memory 12. By not deleting the information, the information set during the trial mode can be used as it is even after the end of the trial mode.

[0058] On the other hand, when it is determined at C01 that the MFP1 cannot connect to the Internet 200 (alt: [Connection impossible]), the MFP1 stores in the memory 12 period-unknown information indicating that the effective period of the trial mode is unknown (C21). When the MFP1 cannot connect to the Internet 200, it cannot send a confirmation command and cannot receive response information from the server 3, so the effective period cannot be confirmed. Note that the MFP1 may also execute C21 when it cannot receive response information from the server 3 after sending a confirmation command or when the content of the received response information is unknown.

[0059] Furthermore, the MFP1 displays a connection-impossible screen for notifying that the connection to the Internet 200 is impossible (C22). For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the connection-impossible screen 52 includes a retry button 521 and is displayed on the entire surface of the touch panel 131 in the same manner as the end notification screen 51. When the user operates the retry button 521, the MFP1 retries the Internet connection, and if the connection is possible, it sends a confirmation command to the server 3 as described above. The connection-impossible screen 52 may further include a cancel button for receiving an instruction to cancel the display.

[0060] Note that when the period-unknown information is stored in the memory 12, the MFP1 periodically tries to connect to the Internet 200. In this case, it is preferable that the MFP1 tries to connect more frequently than the frequency of sending the confirmation command to the server 3. And when the connection to the Internet 200 is restored, the MFP1 sends a confirmation command to the server 3 regardless of the predetermined transmission timing of the confirmation command. And when it can receive response information from the server 3, the MFP1 deletes the period-unknown information and executes processing according to the received response information.

[0061] Next, the procedure of the screen display process, which is a process for displaying various screens on the touch panel 131, will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 9. The screen display process is, for example, the process executed at A11 in FIG. 2, and is executed by the CPU 11 of the MFP 1 when it becomes the timing to display various screens on the touch panel 131 based on a user operation. The trigger for starting the screen display process is, for example, when the MFP 1 is started up or when it resumes from the low power consumption mode.

[0062] The CPU 11 determines whether the state of the MFP 1 is an error state (S101). The error state is, for example, a state in which the functions cannot be executed as they are, such as cover open, paper jam, or ink depletion. If it is determined that it is an error state (S101: YES), the CPU 11 displays an error screen including error information on the entire surface of the touch panel 131 (S102). Then, the CPU 11 determines whether it has received any action for error resolution, such as closing the cover, removing the jammed paper, replenishing the ink, or an operation on the cancel key 134 (S103). If it is determined that neither an action for error resolution nor an operation on the cancel key 134 has been received (S103: NO), the CPU 11 maintains the display until either is received.

[0063] The error screen is a screen that displays only error information and does not include information regarding the trial mode. If it is determined that an action for error resolution or an operation on the cancel key 134 has been received (S103: YES), the CPU 11 returns to S101 and determines whether the error has been resolved. Since the job cannot be resumed if the error is not resolved, the CPU 11 continues to display the error information to alert the user until the error is resolved, and prompts the user to resolve the error. Note that there may be a button on the error screen for receiving an instruction to display detailed status, and if an operation on that button is received, the CPU 11 may perform the detailed display and then make the determination of S103 again.

[0064] If it is determined that the state is not an error state or the error has been resolved (S101: NO), the CPU 11 determines the function icon to be displayed (S105). The function icon is an icon displayed in the function icon area 501, and the CPU 11 determines the function icon according to the states of the trial switch 28 and the function switches 25 to 27. Note that the CPU 11 may make the determination in S105 before S101.

[0065] Then, the CPU 11 determines whether status information indicating outside the period of the trial mode or information with an unknown period is stored in the memory 12 (S111). The status information indicating outside the period is the information stored in C05 when the response information received from the server 3 in C04 of FIG. 6 described above is out-of-period information. The information with an unknown period is the information stored in C21 of FIG. 6 when a network error has occurred.

[0066] If it is determined that neither piece of information is stored (S111: NO), the CPU 11 executes notification processing (S112). That is, when it is not a network error and information indicating either within the period or near the end is stored in the memory 12 as status information, the CPU 11 executes notification processing. The notification processing is processing for determining the display content in the notification area 503 and displaying the home screen. The procedure of the notification processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 10. The case where the MFP 1 is within the valid period of the trial mode and the timing of starting the execution of the notification processing in the first screen display processing after startup or the timing of starting the execution of the notification processing after error resolution is an example of the first timing.

[0067] In the notification process, the CPU 11 determines whether there is notification information to be displayed in the notification area 503 (S201). There are multiple types of notification information. For example, when information indicating within the period or approaching the end is stored in the memory 12 as status information, the CPU 11 determines that there is notification information to be displayed. Specifically, when information indicating within the period is stored, the CPU 11 determines that the trial mode information indicating that it is within the valid period of the trial mode is the notification information to be displayed. Also, when information indicating approaching the end is stored, the CPU 11 determines that the approaching end information indicating that the expiration of the valid period of the trial mode is approaching is the notification information to be displayed.

[0068] Also, for example, in a situation where warning information regarding consumables such as a low remaining amount of the coloring material, the paper not being set in the paper feed tray, or approaching the usage limit of consumable members such as the photosensitive drum, etc., which are mounted on the MFP 1, the CPU 11 determines that there is notification information to be displayed. Also, the process execution information indicating that a predetermined process independent of the function, such as a process for entering the low power consumption mode or a process for detecting the size of the set original document, is being executed is also included in the notification information to be displayed. In S201, the CPU 11 determines whether there is one or more pieces of notification information.

[0069] When it is determined that there is notification information to be displayed (S201: YES), the CPU 11 determines the notification text of the notification information to be displayed (S202). Since the MFP 1 of this embodiment cannot display two or more pieces of notification information simultaneously due to the limitation of the size of the notification area 503, the priority of each piece of notification information is set in advance. In S202, the CPU 11, when there are multiple pieces of notification information to be displayed, selects the notification information with the highest priority among them and determines the notification text corresponding to that notification information as the first display target.

[0070] Specifically, the priority of each notification information is, for example, as shown in FIG. 11, in descending order: near-end information > consumable information > trial mode information > information during process execution. For example, when the near-end information is included in the notification information, since the priority of the near-end information is the first, the CPU 11 determines the notification text as "near the end of the trial". "Near the end of the trial" is an example of the second information. The near end of the trial mode is a state where although the job can be continued, there is a possibility that additional functions will soon become unavailable. The MFP 1 of this embodiment can notify the near-end information with a higher priority than the consumable information, so that the user can consider purchasing additional functions.

[0071] Also, for example, when the near-end information is not included in the notification information but the consumable information is included, the CPU 11 determines the notification text as "consumables". Although the shortage or deterioration of consumables allows the job to continue, it may affect the image quality. Therefore, it is desirable to have the user replenish or replace the consumables with a higher priority than the trial mode information.

[0072] Also, for example, when neither the near-end information nor the consumable information is included in the notification information but the trial mode information is included, the CPU 11 determines the notification text as "in trial". "In trial" is an example of the first information.

[0073] Then, the CPU 11 causes the home screen 50 including the function icon determined in S105 of the screen display process and the notification text determined in S202 to be displayed on the entire surface of the touch panel 131 of the user IF 13 (S204). For example, when information indicating near the end is stored as status information, the CPU 11 causes the home screen 50 including the near-end notification text 701 in the notification area 503 to be displayed as shown in FIG. 12(A). Then, the CPU 11 sets the notification area 503 as a button area capable of receiving operations.

[0074] The CPU 11 determines whether it has received an operation on any of the function icons displayed in the function icon area 501 or the setting icons displayed in the setting icon area 502 on the currently displayed home screen 50 (S211). If it is determined that no operation on the icon has been received (S211: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether it has received an operation on the notification area 503 (S212). If it is determined that no operation on the notification area 503 has been received either (S212: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether one minute has elapsed since the start of the display of the home screen 50 (S213). If it is determined that one minute has not elapsed (S213: NO), the CPU 11 waits until either an operation is received or one minute has elapsed. One minute is an example of a fixed period of time.

[0075] If it is determined that an operation on the notification area 503 has been received (S212: YES), the CPU 11 causes a detailed notification screen including detailed information regarding the notification currently displayed in the notification area 503 to be displayed across the entire touch panel 131 (S215). The detailed notification screen includes an OK button. For example, in S204, when the home screen 50 shown in FIG. 12(A) is displayed and an operation on the currently displayed notification area 503 is received, the CPU 11 causes, in S215, an end-imminent screen 71 including information on the trial end date to be displayed as the detailed notification screen as shown in FIG. 12(B). The end-imminent screen 71 includes an OK button 711.

[0076] The CPU 11 determines whether it has received an operation on the OK button or the cancel key 134 in the detailed notification screen, or whether one minute has elapsed after the detailed notification screen is displayed (S216). If it is determined that no operation has been received and one minute has not elapsed (S216: NO), the CPU 11 waits until either occurs. If it is determined that an operation has been received or one minute has elapsed (S216: YES), the CPU 11 determines whether there is any other notification information (S218). Even if it is determined in S213 that one minute has elapsed since the home screen 50 was displayed in S204 (S213: YES), the CPU 11 also proceeds to S218.

[0077] When it is determined that there is other notification information (S218: YES), the CPU 11 determines a notification text corresponding to the next notification information (S219). When there are a plurality of pieces of notification information to be displayed, the CPU 11 determines the notification text to be displayed next based on the priority order. Then, the CPU 11 returns to S204, and displays the home screen 50 including the notification text determined in S219 on the entire surface of the touch panel 131 in the notification area 503. That is, the CPU 11 makes the home screen 50 displayed in the previous S204 or the detailed notification screen displayed in S215 invisible, and newly displays the home screen 50 including the next notification text.

[0078] For example, when the notification information includes consumable information and trial mode information, the CPU 11 first displays the home screen 50 including the notification text for notifying the consumable information in the notification area 503, and after one minute has elapsed, displays the home screen 50 including the notification text for notifying the trial mode information in the notification area 503. Note that in the second and subsequent S204s, the CPU 11 may change only the display in the notification area 503 instead of redisplaying the entire home screen 50.

[0079] When notifying the trial mode information, the CPU 11 displays the home screen 50 including the in-period notification text 801 as shown in, for example, FIG. 13(A) in S204. When an operation on the notification area 503 is received in FIG. 13(A), the CPU 11 displays, in S215, as a detailed notification screen, the in-period screen 81 including information indicating that it is in the trial mode as shown in FIG. 13(B). The in-period screen 81 includes an OK button 811. In the in-period screen 81, information on the end date of the trial mode may also be displayed. S204 when displaying the home screen 50 including the in-period notification text 801 is an example of the first display process.

[0080] Note that the notification information with a higher priority than the trial mode information is not limited to consumable information and may be multiple. And when there are multiple pieces of notification information with a higher priority than the trial mode information, the CPU 11 causes those pieces of notification information to be displayed in order of priority before the trial mode information according to the priority. Specifically, the CPU 11 uses the information with the highest priority as the notification text in S202, and after displaying the home screen 50 in S204, if the conditions of S213 or S216 are met, the CPU 11 uses the next-priority information as the notification text in S219 and executes S204 again. Further, when the trial mode information is included in the notification information, after all the notification information with a higher priority than the trial mode information is displayed, the CPU 11 uses the trial mode information as the notification text in S202 and causes the home screen 50 shown in FIG. 13(A) to be displayed in S204.

[0081] When it is determined that the display of all the notification information to be displayed has ended and there is no other notification information (S218: NO), or when it is determined that there is no notification information to be displayed in the first place (S201: NO), the CPU 11 determines to notify the date and time information in the notification area 503 (S221). Then, the CPU 11 causes the home screen 50 (see FIG. 4) including the date and time information to be displayed on the user IF 13 in the notification area 503 (S222).

[0082] Then, the CPU 11 determines whether an operation on a function icon or a setting icon has been received on the currently displayed home screen 50 (S223). When it is determined that no operation on the icon has been received (S223: NO), the CPU 11 maintains the display of the home screen 50. Note that after the home screen 50 is displayed, if no operation has been received for a predetermined time or more, the MFP 1 may turn off the screen and enter the low power consumption mode.

[0083] When it is determined that an operation on a function icon or a setting icon has been received on the home screen 50 in the display (S211: YES, or S223: YES), the CPU 11 executes post-operation processing. The post-operation processing is processing that changes the display according to the icon on which the operation has been received and further receives the user's operation. The procedure of the post-operation processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 14.

[0084] In the post-operation processing, the CPU 11 determines whether the icon on which the operation has been received is a function icon or a setting icon (S301). When it is determined that it is a function icon (S301: function icon), the CPU 11 causes a setting screen for receiving settings regarding the function of the received function icon to be displayed on the entire surface of the touch panel 131 (S311), and receives instructions for various settings. Then, the CPU 11 determines whether an execution instruction for the function has been received (S312).

[0085] When it is determined that an execution instruction for the function has not been received (S312: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether an operation on the cancel key 134 has been received (S313). When it is determined that an operation on the cancel key 134 has not been received (S313: NO), the CPU 11 continues to display the setting screen and receives instructions for various settings and executions.

[0086] When it is determined that an execution instruction for the function has been received (S312: YES), the CPU 11 causes an execution screen including job information, which is information on the function being executed, to be displayed on the entire surface of the touch panel 131 (S315). Then, the CPU 11 determines whether the job has ended (S316). When it is determined that the job has not ended (S316: NO), the CPU 11 continues to display the execution screen until the job ends.

[0087] On the other hand, when it is determined that the received icon is the setting icon (S301: Setting Icon), the CPU 11 displays a menu screen for receiving selection of an item to be set or information-displayed corresponding to the operated setting icon on the entire surface of the touch panel 131 (S321). The CPU 11 determines whether or not it has received a selection operation by the user on the currently displayed menu screen (S322). If it is determined that no selection operation has been received (S322: NO), the CPU 11 continues to display the menu screen. If it is determined that a selection operation by the user has been received (S322: YES), the CPU 11 causes the user IF 13 to display a detailed screen showing detailed information about the selected item (S323).

[0088] For example, when an operation on all the setting icons 90 is received on the home screen 50 shown in FIG. 4, the CPU 11 causes the detailed setting screen 91 as shown in FIG. 15(A) to be displayed on the entire surface of the touch panel 131. The detailed setting screen 91 includes various setting buttons 911. When an operation on the various setting buttons 911 is received, the CPU 11 causes various setting screens 92 having a plurality of options to be displayed on the entire surface of the touch panel 131 as a menu as shown in FIG. 15(B). When status information of the trial mode is stored in the memory 12, the various setting screens 92 include a trial mode button 921. By including the trial mode button 921 in the options of the various setting screens 92, the user can recognize that it is the trial mode when viewing the various setting screens 92. On the other hand, when the status information of the trial mode is not stored, the various setting screens 92 do not include the trial mode button 921.

[0089] The various setting screens 92 including the trial mode button 921 are an example of the second screen. The timing when an operation to the various setting buttons 911 is received within the valid period of the trial mode is an example of the first timing, and S323 when displaying the various setting screens 92 including the trial mode button 921 is an example of the first display process. Note that the CPU 11 may also display, as information of the trial mode button 921, the status information of the trial mode and the period information which is the information of the valid period. By displaying the information of the trial mode on the various setting screens 92, the information displayed on the home screen 50 can be increased without making the home screen 50 complicated, and the information of the trial mode can be notified.

[0090] When an operation to the trial mode button 921 is received on the various setting screens 92 shown in FIG. 15(B), the CPU 11 displays, based on the status information of the trial mode, a detailed screen including information on whether it is within or outside the period of the trial mode on the entire surface of the touch panel 131. If it is within the period, as shown in FIG. 15(C), the in-period screen 93 is displayed. The in-period screen 93 is an example of the third screen. The timing when an operation to the trial mode button 921 is received is an example of the first timing, and S323 when displaying the in-period screen 93 is an example of the first display process. Note that when the status information indicates that the end is approaching, the CPU 11 determines that it is within the period.

[0091] The in-period screen 93 includes, for example, the period information indicating the valid period of the trial mode, and includes the status display button 931 and the trial cancel button 932. The status display button 931 is a button that receives an instruction to display the status information of the trial mode including information such as the period information of the trial mode. The trial cancel button 932 is a button that receives an instruction to end the trial mode even within the valid period. Note that the in-period screen 93 may not include the period information. By also displaying the period information on the in-period screen 93 or the status information of the trial mode, the user can grasp not only that the trial mode is set but also the valid period of the trial mode.

[0092] On the other hand, if the status information indicates out-of-period, the CPU 11 causes the out-of-period screen 94 to be displayed across the entire touch panel 131 as shown in FIG. 15(D). The out-of-period screen 94 includes a status display button 941. When an operation on the status display button 941 is received on the out-of-period screen 94 shown in FIG. 15(D), the MFP 1 causes the end notification screen 51 shown in FIG. 7 to be displayed and receives a restart instruction with the restart button 511.

[0093] When an operation on the trial cancel button 932 is received on the in-period screen 93 shown in FIG. 15(C), the CPU 11 causes the confirmation screen 95 to be displayed across the entire touch panel 131 as shown in FIG. 15(E). The confirmation screen 95 includes text for confirming the end of the trial mode, a "Yes" button 951, and a "No" button 952. The "Yes" button 951 is a button that receives an instruction to end the trial mode and restart the MFP 1. The "No" button 952 is a button that receives an instruction to return to the previous screen, the in-period screen 93, without ending the trial mode.

[0094] When an operation on the "Yes" button 951 is received, the MFP 1 executes the procedure for ending the trial mode shown in C13 to C16 of FIG. 6 and restarts. The operation on the "Yes" button 951 is an example of a change instruction, and the content of the change by this instruction is to shorten the valid period of the trial mode. By receiving an instruction to end the trial mode, a more flexible operation of the trial mode can be achieved. If it is possible to extend the valid period of the trial mode, the CPU 11 may receive an instruction to extend the valid period. Also, the CPU 11 may, for example, receive an instruction to change the valid period when it is a user having the change authority based on user authentication.

[0095] Upon receiving an operation on the "Yes" button 951 in the confirmation screen 95 or the restart button 511 in the end notification screen 51 and restarting, and also upon receiving an operation on all setting icons 90 on the home screen 50 displayed after the restart, the MFP1 displays the detailed setting screen 91 shown in FIG. 15(A). However, since the status information has been deleted by the procedure for ending the trial mode, the various setting screens 92 displayed when an operation on various setting buttons 911 is received on the detailed setting screen 91 after the restart do not include the trial mode button 921.

[0096] Return to the explanation of the post-operation processing. After displaying the detailed screen in S323, the CPU 11 determines whether an operation on the cancel key 134 is received (S324). If it is determined that no operation has been received (S324: NO), the CPU 11 continues to display the detailed screen. Note that when the CPU 11 receives an operation on the return key 132 during the display of each screen, it may return to the previous screen.

[0097] If it is determined that the job being executed has ended (S316: YES), or if it is determined that an operation on the cancel key 134 has been received (S313: YES or S324: YES), the CPU 11 ends the post-operation processing and returns to the notification processing. In the notification processing, as described above, if it is within the valid period of the trial mode, the CPU 11 causes the home screen 50 including the notification text 801 within the period to be displayed on the user IF 13. The timing of the start of execution of the notification processing after the job being executed has ended while the MFP1 is within the valid period of the trial mode is an example of the first timing.

[0098] Return to the explanation of the notification processing. The CPU 11 determines whether the end condition of the post-operation processing is the end of job execution (S232). If it is determined that it is not the end of job execution (S232: NO), the CPU 11 returns to S221 and causes the home screen 50 including the date and time notification to be displayed on the user IF 13. Even when an operation on a function icon is received and a setting screen is displayed, if the display of the setting screen is aborted without receiving a job execution instruction, the notification information is not displayed.

[0099] On the other hand, when it is determined that the job execution has ended (S232: YES), the CPU 11 ends the notification process and returns to the screen display process. In the screen display process, as shown in FIG. 9, after the notification process of S112, the CPU 11 returns to S101 and determines whether it is in an error state. If it is not in an error state and is not outside the trial period or the period is unknown, the CPU 11 executes the notification process again and notifies information regarding the trial mode.

[0100] Since it is assumed that the user is near the MFP 1 after the job execution, by displaying information regarding the trial mode on the home screen 50 displayed after the job execution ends, it is easier to notify the user that it is in the trial mode. On the other hand, when returning to the display of the home screen 50 without executing the job, since the home screen 50 has already been displayed once and the annoyance due to the display frequency becoming too high is reduced, the MFP 1 does not display the trial mode information.

[0101] Returning to the explanation of the screen display process. When it is determined that either status information indicating outside the trial period or unknown period information is stored (S111: YES), the CPU 11 displays a warning screen on the entire touch panel 131 based on the status information (S115). Specifically, the CPU 11 displays the end notification screen 51 shown in FIG. 7 or the connection unavailable screen 52 shown in FIG. 8.

[0102] Then, the CPU 11 determines whether an instruction to restart by operating the restart button 511 in the end notification screen 51 or an instruction to retry by operating the retry button 521 in the connection unavailable screen 52 has been received (S116). When it is determined that an operation on the button being displayed has not been received (S116: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether an operation on the cancel key 134 has been received (S117). When it is determined that an operation on the cancel key 134 has not been received (S117: NO), the display of the end notification screen 51 or the connection unavailable screen 52 is continued until an operation on either the buttons or the cancel key 134 is received.

[0103] When it is determined that an operation on a button in the display has been received (S116: YES), the CPU 11 executes restart or retry as processing corresponding to the operated button (S118), and ends the screen display processing. When it is determined that an instruction to restart has been received on the end notification screen 51, the CPU 11 starts processing for ending the trial (C13 to C17 in FIG. 6). Also, when an instruction to retry is received on the connection unavailable screen 52, the CPU 11 retries the network connection.

[0104] When it is determined that an operation on the cancel key 134 has been received (S117: YES), the CPU 11 determines the notification text to be displayed in the notification area 503 (S121). The notification text to be displayed is text indicating outside the period or unknown period of the current trial mode, and may be, for example, the same text as the title of the end notification screen 51 or the connection unavailable screen 52. Then, the CPU 11 displays the home screen 50 including the function icon determined in S105 and the notification text determined in S121 on the entire surface of the touch panel 131 (S122). The CPU 11 sets the notification area 503 as a button area where operations can be received.

[0105] That is, when an operation on the cancel key 134 is received while the end notification screen 51 or the connection unavailable screen 52 is being displayed, the CPU 11 temporarily hides the display of these screens and displays the home screen. However, in this case, the CPU 11 displays a home screen including the same notification text as the title of the end notification screen 51 or the connection unavailable screen 52, for example.

[0106] Furthermore, the CPU 11 determines whether an operation on a function icon or a setting icon has been received on the currently displayed home screen 50 (S125). When it is determined that no operation on the icon has been received (S125: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether an operation on the notification area 503 has been received (S126). When it is determined that no operation on the notification area 503 has been received (S126: NO), the CPU 11 continues to display the home screen 50.

[0107] When it is determined that an operation on the icon has been received (S125: YES), the CPU 11 executes the above-described post-operation processing (S127). After the completion of the post-operation processing, or when it is determined that an operation on the notification area 503 has been received (S126: YES), the CPU 11 returns to S115 to redisplay the warning screen. That is, when it is outside the trial mode period or the period is unknown, unlike in the case of the notification process, the CPU 11 does not change the notification information displayed in the notification area 503 even if a certain time such as one minute has elapsed, and continues to notify the information outside the trial mode period or the unknown period.

[0108] So far, the MFP 1 capable of displaying the home screen including the notification area 503 for displaying text has been described. However, there are also devices in which the size of the touch panel 131 is small and it is impossible to display notifications in text. Examples of the home screens displayed on such devices are shown in FIGS. 16 and 17. The home screen 110 shown in FIG. 16(A) and the home screen 120 shown in FIG. 17 include function icons 111 and 121 for receiving setting or display instructions regarding each function, and setting icons 112 and 122 for receiving setting or information display instructions regardless of the function, and do not include a notification area for displaying in text.

[0109] The home screen 110 shown in FIG. 16(A) further includes a notification icon 113 indicating that there is notification information. The area where the notification icon 113 is displayed is an example of the notification area. The notification icon 113 is an area capable of receiving a user's operation and notifies only the presence or absence of notification information. The home screen 110 is an example of the third standby screen. When the device displaying this home screen 110 receives an operation on the notification icon 113, it displays a notification screen 115 including a list of notification information as shown in FIG. 16(B). For example, when the status information of the trial mode is stored, the notification information displayed on the notification screen 115 also includes information regarding the trial mode. The timing when an operation on the notification icon 113 is received is an example of the first timing, and the process of displaying the notification screen 115 including information regarding the trial mode is an example of the first display process.

[0110] On the other hand, the home screen 120 shown in FIG. 17 includes not an icon but one notification image. Specifically, the home screen 120 shown in FIG. 17(A) includes a notification image 123, and the home screen 120 shown in FIG. 17(B) includes a notification image 124. The area where the notification images 123 and 124 are displayed is an example of a notification area. The notification images 123 and 124 are areas that do not accept user operations and are various images such as marks indicating the content of notification information. The device that displays the home screen 120 displays one of the notification images of the notification target according to the notification information of the notification target.

[0111] In this device, when the status information of the trial mode is stored and there is no consumable information of the notification target, as shown in FIG. 17(A), the home screen 120 including the notification image 123 indicating that it is in the trial mode is displayed. On the other hand, even when the status information of the trial mode is stored, if there is consumable information of the notification target, as shown in FIG. 17(B), the notification image 124 indicating that there is consumable information is displayed. Then, for example, when one minute has elapsed, the notification image 124 in the home screen 120 is changed to the notification image 123. That is, when there are a plurality of pieces of information of the notification target, the notification images corresponding to each piece of notification information are displayed in order based on the priority. The home screen 120 is an example of a fourth standby screen. The timing of displaying the home screen 120 including the notification image 123 is an example of the first timing, and the process of displaying the home screen 120 is an example of the first display process.

[0112] In this device, if the notification information with a higher priority than the trial mode information is the notification target, it should be in a state where the notification information with a higher priority is displayed, the notification image related to the trial mode is not displayed, and the notification image related to the notification information with a higher priority is displayed. When there is little information that can be displayed in the notification area, by displaying the notification images corresponding to each piece of notification information in the notification area, the user can grasp whether there is notification information related to the trial mode even without text display. Note that in a device capable of displaying a home screen including a plurality of notification images, when there are a plurality of pieces of notification information of the notification target, the plurality of notification images may be arranged and displayed.

[0113] As described in detail above, according to the MFP1 of this embodiment, when the home screen 50 is displayed within the valid period of the trial mode, the trial mode information is displayed. As a result, the user can grasp that the trial mode is set in the MFP1 and the additional functions are temporarily available. As a result, for example, it is possible to promote the conclusion of a contract for the user to use the additional functions. Further, the user can grasp that it is the trial mode on the target MFP1 without using tools of an external device or the like.

[0114] Furthermore, the MFP1 of this embodiment causes the trial mode information to be displayed on the home screen 50 that is displayed at timing based on operations by the user such as when the MFP1 is started up, when the execution of a job ends, and when an error is resolved. Since it is assumed that the user is near the MFP1 at these timings, by displaying the trial mode information on the home screen 50, it is easier to notify the user that it is the trial mode.

[0115] Furthermore, when the MFP1 of this embodiment displays the trial mode information in the notification area 503 of the home screen 50, the trial mode information is made non-displayed after one minute has elapsed. Therefore, the display of other notification information thereafter is not restricted, and the annoyance of the user can be avoided. On the other hand, since the display of various setting screens 92 and in-period screens 93 is less likely to restrict the display of other information and the display frequency is also low, the MFP1 does not make the trial mode information non-displayed even after a certain period of time has elapsed, so it is easy to notify the user that it is the trial mode.

[0116] Furthermore, when the remaining time of the valid period of the trial mode is short, the MFP1 of this embodiment displays information indicating that the end is approaching, which is different from the information displayed when the remaining time is not short. Therefore, it is also possible to notify the user that the expiration of the trial mode is approaching.

[0117] Note that this embodiment is merely an example and does not limit the present invention in any way. Therefore, the technology disclosed in this specification can naturally be variously improved and modified without departing from the gist thereof. For example, an example of the image processing apparatus is applicable as long as it has an image processing unit that forms an image or forms image data, such as a printer, scanner, FAX apparatus, computer machine, etc., and a connection function to the Internet 200, not limited to an MFP.

[0118] Also, the display modes of the various screens illustrated in this embodiment are all examples, and the arrangement of areas and the words displayed in each screen are not limited to these modes. For example, although the notification area 503 is one line of text and can display only one piece of notification information, it may be able to display multiple lines. In that case, the MFP1 may display one piece of notification information in multiple lines, or may display multiple pieces of notification information, for example, from the highest priority one at the upper position.

[0119] Also, for example, although the error information is assumed to be displayed on the entire surface of the touch panel 131, it does not have to be the entire surface. For example, the error information may be displayed in the notification area 503 with higher priority than the consumable information. Also, for example, notifications of approaching end or connection failure do not have to be made. In this case, the response information transmitted from the server 3 may be either in-period information or out-of-period information.

[0120] Also, in this embodiment, it is assumed that the period information is not displayed in the notification area 503 of the home screen 50, but it may be displayed. However, since displaying the period information within the home screen 50 may easily be confused with the current time by the user and may instead cause confusion, it is preferably displayed on the approaching end screen 71 or the in-period screen 81. Also, the period information may indicate, for example, the date and time of expiration or the remaining time until expiration.

[0121] Also, for example, the timing of displaying the home screen 50 is not limited to the example shown. For example, it may be displayed by detecting the approach of the user, or it may be displayed periodically. Also, although it was assumed that notification information is not displayed when returning from the setting screen to the home screen 50, it may be displayed. Further, in this embodiment, when an operation on all the setting icons 90 is received, the detailed setting screen 91 including the various setting buttons 911 is displayed, and when an operation on the various setting buttons 911 is received, the various setting screen 92 including the trial mode button 921 is displayed. However, the trial mode information may be included in the detailed setting screen 91, or the trial mode information may be included in the screen displayed after further receiving a selection operation on the various setting screen 92.

[0122] Also, for example, the expiration date may be stored in the MFP1, and the MFP1 may manage the expiration date. However, by managing it on the server 3, there is a high possibility of appropriate management. Also, in this embodiment, even if the communication with the server 3 is abnormal, the trial mode is not automatically terminated. However, when response information cannot be acquired continuously for a predetermined number of times, the trial mode may be forcibly terminated. In that case, it is preferable to notify that the trial mode has ended even after the trial mode has ended.

[0123] Also, when receiving an instruction to activate an additional function, it may be determined whether it is within the period of the trial mode. And if all the additional functions are activated within the period of the trial mode, the trial mode may be terminated. Also, for example, when the response information to the confirmation command for confirming the expiration date of the trial mode is outside the expiration date, if the activation state of the additional functions is confirmed and all the additional functions are activated, the trial mode may be terminated without notification. Also, in this embodiment, the MFP1 has a plurality of additional functions and can be individually activated, but there may be one additional function. Also, in the trial mode, it was assumed that all the additional functions can be tried, but trials may be accepted for each function.

[0124] Also, in this embodiment, although the trial switch 28 is provided separately from the function switches 25 to 27, it is not limited to this. For example, as the states of the function switches 25 to 27, there may be a state during the trial mode other than off and on. And when the trial mode is started, the MFP1 may switch all the function switches 25 to 27 that are not on to the state during the trial mode. Also, after the end of the trial mode, instead of changing the state of the trial switch 28 to "executed", the MFP1 may delete the trial switch 28. Also, the server 3 may store the information on the executed trial mode.

[0125] Also, for example, in this embodiment, the additional functions are assumed to be mounted on the MFP1 from the factory shipment as the function programs 22 to 24, but there may be functions that can be mounted after the factory shipment. For example, the MFP1 may be able to mount new additional functions by firmware update. Since the timing of the firmware update is independent of the effective period of the trial mode, for example, there is a possibility that new additional functions are mounted within the effective period of the trial mode. When the new additional functions can be tried due to the firmware update, the MFP1 receives a trial instruction with the setting information used by the function in an initialized state. However, the MFP1 does not transmit the information on the firmware update to the server 3, and the effective period of the trial mode is not changed.

[0126] Also, in any of the sequence diagrams disclosed in the embodiment, the multiple processes in any multiple steps can be arbitrarily changed in the execution order or executed in parallel within a range where there is no contradiction in the processing content.

[0127] Also, the processes disclosed in the embodiment may be executed by a single CPU, multiple CPUs, hardware such as an ASIC, or a combination thereof. Also, the processes disclosed in the embodiment can be realized in various forms such as a recording medium recording a program for executing the process, or a method.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0128] 1 MFP 11 CPU 12 Memory 13 User IF 15 Printing Engine 16 Scanner

Claims

1. An image processing unit, a user interface, a memory, a computer, An image processing apparatus comprising: The image processing apparatus has a plurality of functions including a special function, and the memory stores function information indicating whether to enable or disable the special function. The function information indicates the disablement of the special function at the time of factory shipment of the image processing apparatus. The computer: When receiving a valid instruction to enable the special function, makes the special function available by changing the function information stored in the memory to information indicating the enablement of the special function. Furthermore, the computer: When receiving a start instruction to start a trial mode, executes a start process to start the trial mode, and makes the special function available if it is within the valid period of the trial mode even if the function information indicates the disablement of the special function. After starting the trial mode, ends the trial mode based on the expiration of the valid period of the trial mode. Furthermore, the computer: At a first timing within the valid period of the trial mode, executes a first display process to cause the user interface to display a screen that can include trial mode information indicating that it is within the valid period of the trial mode as notification information. The information that can be included as the notification information has a priority set. Furthermore, in the first display process, the computer: At the first timing when the trial mode is within the valid period, if the state of the image processing apparatus is not a state where high-priority information, which is the notification information having a higher priority than the trial mode information, should be displayed, displays the screen including the trial mode information. If the state of the image processing apparatus is a state where the high-priority information should be displayed, displays the screen not including the trial mode information. An image processing apparatus characterized by the above.

2. An image processing unit, a user interface, a memory, a computer, An image processing apparatus comprising: The image processing apparatus has a plurality of functions including a special function, and the memory stores function information indicating whether to enable or disable the special function. The function information indicates the disablement of the special function at the time of factory shipment of the image processing apparatus. The computer: When receiving a valid instruction to enable the special function, the special function is made available by changing the function information stored in the memory to information indicating the enablement of the special function. Furthermore, the computer When receiving a start instruction to start the trial mode, by executing a start process to start the trial mode, even if the function information indicates the disablement of the special function, within the valid period of the trial mode, the special function is made available. After starting the trial mode, the trial mode is terminated based on the expiration of the valid period of the trial mode. Furthermore, the computer At a first timing within the valid period of the trial mode, the computer executes a first display process to display on the user interface a screen that can include trial mode information indicating that it is within the valid period of the trial mode as notification information. The information that can be included as the notification information has a priority set. Furthermore, in the first display process, the computer At the first timing when the trial mode is within the valid period, if the state of the image processing apparatus is not a state where high-priority information, which is the notification information with a higher priority than the trial mode information, should be displayed, the computer displays a screen that includes the trial mode information and does not include the high-priority information. If the state of the image processing apparatus is a state where the high-priority information should be displayed, the computer displays a screen that includes the trial mode information below the high-priority information. An image processing apparatus characterized by the above.

3. In the image processing apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, The computer When, within the valid period of the trial mode, the function information is changed to information indicating the enablement of the special function by receiving the valid instruction, thereby enabling the special function, after the trial mode ends, the special function remains enabled and the special function is made available. An image processing apparatus characterized by the above.

4. In the image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The computer At a second timing after the expiration of the valid period of the trial mode, the computer terminates the trial mode. Furthermore, the computer After the expiration of the valid period of the trial mode and at a third timing before reaching the second timing, a second display process is executed to display end information indicating the end of the trial mode on the user interface. An image processing apparatus characterized by the above.

5. In the image processing apparatus according to any one of Claims 1 to 4, The computer is able to display a first standby screen on the user interface, and the first standby screen includes a first type of operator corresponding to a display instruction for settings or information regarding each function, and a second type of operator corresponding to a display instruction for settings or information independent of the function. Furthermore, the computer is based on an operation on the first type of operator, a first screen is displayed on the user interface, and the first screen includes settings or information regarding the function corresponding to the operated first type of operator. Based on an operation on the second type of operator, a second screen is displayed on the user interface. Furthermore, the computer is in the first display process, the timing of displaying the second screen is set as the first timing, and the trial mode information is displayed on the second screen. An image processing apparatus characterized by the above.

6. In the image processing apparatus according to Claim 5, The computer is based on an operation on the second type of operator, a menu with a plurality of options is displayed as the second screen on the user interface. In the first display process, the trial mode information is displayed as one of the options included in the menu. An image processing apparatus characterized by the above.

7. In the image processing apparatus according to Claim 6, The computer is in the first display process, further, on a third screen displayed on the user interface based on the one option included in the menu or an operation on the one option, period information indicating the valid period of the trial mode is displayed. An image processing apparatus characterized by the above.

8. In the image processing apparatus according to Claim 6, The computer is In the first display process, on a third screen to be displayed on the user interface based on an operation on the one option included in the menu, an instruction to change the valid period of the trial mode is received, and when the change instruction is received, the valid period of the trial mode is changed according to the received change content. An image processing apparatus characterized by the above.

9. In the image processing apparatus according to any one of Claims 1 to 4, the computer is capable of displaying a second standby screen on the user interface, and the second standby screen includes a first type of operator corresponding to a display instruction of settings or information regarding each function, and a notification area for displaying notification information in text. Furthermore, the computer is configured to display a first screen on the user interface based on an operation on the first type of operator, and the first screen includes settings or information regarding the function corresponding to the operated first type of operator. Furthermore, the computer is in the first display process, configured to display on the user interface the second standby screen on which text corresponding to the trial mode information is displayed in the notification area. An image processing apparatus characterized by the above.

10. In the image processing apparatus according to Claim 9, the computer is in the first display process, with the timing of first displaying the second standby screen after the startup of the image processing apparatus as the first timing, configured to display on the user interface the second standby screen on which text corresponding to the trial mode information is displayed in the notification area. An image processing apparatus characterized by the above.

11. In the image processing apparatus according to Claim 9, the computer is when starting the execution of a job regarding each function using the image processing unit, configured to display on the user interface an execution screen including job information indicating that the job is being executed, and when the execution of the job is completed, configured to display the second standby screen on the user interface. Furthermore, the computer is in the first display process, with the timing of switching the display from the execution screen to the second standby screen after the execution of the job as the first timing, configured to display on the user interface the second standby screen on which text corresponding to the trial mode information is displayed in the notification area. Furthermore, the computer is At the timing of switching the display from the first screen to the second standby screen, text corresponding to the trial mode information is not displayed in the notification area. An image processing apparatus characterized by the above.

12. In the image processing apparatus according to claim 9, The computer, When an error occurs that restricts the execution of a job related to each function, an error screen including error information indicating that the error has occurred is displayed on the user interface. When the error is resolved, the second standby screen is displayed on the user interface. Furthermore, the computer, In the first display process, taking the timing of switching the display from the error screen to the second standby screen as the first timing, the second standby screen with text corresponding to the trial mode information displayed in the notification area is displayed on the user interface. An image processing apparatus characterized by the above.

13. In the image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 12, The computer, In the first display process, at the first timing within the valid period of the trial mode, the second standby screen with text corresponding to the trial mode information displayed in the notification area is displayed on the user interface, and then, after a certain time has elapsed, the trial mode information is made non-displayed. An image processing apparatus characterized by the above.

14. In the image processing apparatus according to claim 13, The second standby screen includes the first type of operator, the notification area, and the second type of operator corresponding to a display instruction for settings or information not depending on functions. The computer, Based on an operation on the second type of operator, a second screen is displayed on the user interface. Furthermore, the computer, In the first display process, when the second standby screen with text corresponding to the trial mode information displayed in the notification area is displayed on the user interface, and also when the second screen is displayed based on an operation on the second type of operator included in the second standby screen, the trial mode information is displayed on the second screen. Furthermore, the computer, In the first display process, when displaying the text corresponding to the trial mode information in the notification area, after displaying the second standby screen with the text corresponding to the trial mode information in the notification area on the user interface, if the fixed time has elapsed, the trial mode information is made non-displayed. On the other hand, when displaying the trial mode information on the second screen, the trial mode information is not made non-displayed even if the fixed time has elapsed. An image processing apparatus characterized by the above.

15. In the image processing apparatus according to any one of Claims 9 to 13, The computer is, In the first display process, when the remaining time of the effective period of the trial mode is not shorter than the threshold value, first information indicating that it is within the effective period of the trial mode is displayed in the notification area as the text corresponding to the trial mode information. When the remaining time of the effective period of the trial mode is shorter than the threshold value, second information indicating that the trial mode is about to expire is displayed in the notification area as the text corresponding to the trial mode information. An image processing apparatus characterized by the above.

16. In the image processing apparatus according to Claim 15, The second standby screen includes the first type of operator, the notification area, and the second type of operator corresponding to a display instruction of settings or information independent of functions. The computer is, Based on an operation on the second type of operator, a second screen is displayed on the user interface. Furthermore, the computer is, In the first display process, when displaying the second standby screen with the text corresponding to the trial mode information in the notification area on the user interface, and also when displaying the second screen based on an operation on the second type of operator included in the second standby screen, the trial mode information is displayed on the second screen. Furthermore, the computer is, In the first display process, when displaying the text corresponding to the trial mode information in the notification area, if the remaining time of the validity period of the trial mode is longer than the threshold value, the first information indicating that it is within the validity period of the trial mode is displayed in the notification area as the text corresponding to the trial mode information. If the remaining time of the validity period of the trial mode is not longer than the threshold value, the second information indicating that the trial mode is about to expire is displayed in the notification area as the text corresponding to the trial mode information. On the other hand, when displaying the trial mode information on the second screen, in addition to the trial mode information on the second screen, period information indicating the validity period of the trial mode is also displayed. An image processing apparatus characterized by the above.

17. In the image processing apparatus according to any one of Claims 1 to 4, the computer is capable of displaying a third standby screen on the user interface. The third standby screen includes a first type of operator corresponding to a display instruction of settings or information regarding each function, and a notification icon corresponding to a display instruction of notification information. Furthermore, the computer displays a first screen on the user interface based on an operation on the first type of operator. The first screen includes settings or information regarding the function corresponding to the operated first type of operator. Furthermore, the computer displays a notification screen on the user interface based on an operation on the notification icon. Furthermore, the computer In the first display process, the trial mode information is displayed on the notification screen with the timing of displaying the notification screen being the first timing. An image processing apparatus characterized by the above.

18. In the image processing apparatus according to any one of Claims 1 to 4, the computer is capable of displaying a fourth standby screen on the user interface. The fourth standby screen includes a first type of operator corresponding to a display instruction of settings or information regarding each function, and a notification image corresponding to the content of the notification information. Furthermore, the computer displays a first screen on the user interface based on an operation on the first type of operator. The first screen includes settings or information regarding the function corresponding to the operated first type of operator. Furthermore, the computer In the first display process, at a first timing within the valid period of the trial mode, the fourth standby screen on which the notification image corresponding to the trial mode information is displayed is caused to be displayed on the user interface. An image processing apparatus characterized by the above.

Images