Image forming apparatus and control method thereof

Abstract

To provide an image forming apparatus that allows users using the apparatus to share setting history information and facilitates execution of a job based on the shared setting history information, and thereby can increase the efficiency of operations between the users sharing the setting history information, and a control method.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus comprises: a control unit that executes a job on the basis of a setting value; a storage unit that stores the setting value of the executed job as setting history information; and a display unit that displays a selection screen for selecting the setting history information stored in the storage unit. The control unit receives sharing settings for a user other than a user executing the job to share the selected setting history information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] There is known an image forming apparatus that stores setting values related to the execution of jobs such as printing, faxing, and scanning as setting history information.

[0003] Recently, attempts have been made to reuse setting history information. The setting history information includes setting values related to the execution of jobs. Therefore, a user who wants to re-execute the same or a similar job as the job related to the setting history information can save the time and effort of inputting the setting values related to the execution of the job by copying the setting values included in the setting history information.

[0004] The setting history information is presented to the user via a display device or the like provided in the image forming apparatus. For example, Patent Document 1 describes that when displaying an operation history setting screen, if personal authentication has already been performed, a personal history is set in the operation history, and if personal authentication has not yet been performed, an overall history is set in the operation history.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] As in Patent Document 1, there is known a technique for changing the display form of setting history information according to the presence or absence of user authentication for the apparatus. However, as part of the effective utilization of setting history information, there is no known technique related to the "sharing" of setting history information that enables a user other than the job execution user to use the setting history information related to the job.

[0007] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an image forming apparatus and a control method capable of enhancing work efficiency among users who share setting history information by enabling sharing of setting history information among users using the apparatus and facilitating execution of jobs based on the shared setting history information.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] The image forming apparatus according to the present disclosure includes a control unit that executes a job based on a set value, a storage unit that stores the set value of the executed job as setting history information, and a display unit that displays a selection screen for selecting the setting history information stored in the storage unit. The control unit is characterized in that it accepts a sharing setting in which other users other than the user who executes the job can share the selected setting history information.

[0009] Further, the control method according to the present disclosure is a control method for an image forming apparatus that executes a job based on a set value, and includes a storage step of storing the set value of the executed job as setting history information, a display step of displaying a selection screen for selecting the setting history information stored in the storage step, and a control step. The control step is characterized by including a step of accepting a sharing setting in which other users other than the user who executes the job can share the selected setting history information.

Effects of the Invention

[0010] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus and a control method capable of enhancing work efficiency among users who share setting history information by enabling sharing of setting history information among users using the apparatus and facilitating execution of jobs based on the shared setting history information.

Brief Description of the Drawings

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the description of the embodiments, as an image forming apparatus, a multifunction device having a printing function including copying, a fax function, a scanning function, a network communication function, etc., and executing jobs based on each function will be described as an example. Further, the following embodiments are examples for explaining the present disclosure, and the technical scope of the description described in the claims is not limited to the following description.

[0013] In the present disclosure, a user (executing user) who logs in to the multifunction device as a device and executes a job is referred to as a "logged-in user" and is distinguished from "other users". When there is no need to distinguish users, they may simply be referred to as "users, etc.".

[0014] [1. First Embodiment] The multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment is a form of a multifunction device capable of sharing setting history information based on a job executed by a logged-in user with other users. [1.1 Functional Configuration] The functional configuration of the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 1 is an external view for explaining the overall configuration of the multifunction device 10. FIG. 2 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction device 10.

[0015] The multifunction device 10 has a copying function of forming an image on a sheet of paper as a recording medium based on scan data generated by reading a document, and a printing function of forming an image on a sheet of paper based on an image signal received via a network or the like or image data stored in a portable storage medium or the like (the copying function and the printing function are collectively referred to as the printing function).

[0016] In addition, the multifunction device 10 has a facsimile function of performing facsimile transmission and reception via a general subscriber telephone line, a facsimile communication network, or the like. Further, the multifunction device 10 has a data temporary storage function of temporarily storing various data such as image data and facsimile data in a storage medium, and a data transmission function of transmitting various data via e-mail or the like.

[0017] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the multifunction device 10 includes a control unit 11, a display unit 13, an operation input unit 15, a communication unit 17, an image forming unit 19, an image reading unit 21, a storage unit 23, a paper feeding unit 25, and a paper discharging unit 27.

[0018] The control unit 11 controls the entire multifunction device 10. The control unit 11 is constituted by, for example, one or a plurality of arithmetic devices (such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit)). The control unit 11 realizes its functions by reading and executing a job execution program 231, a first authentication program 232, a setting history information processing program 233, a sharing setting program 234, a display processing program 235, etc. stored in the storage unit 23.

[0019] The display unit 13 displays various information to a user or the like. The display unit 13 can be constituted by, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, or the like.

[0020] The operation input unit 15 receives the input of information such as set values by the user or the like. The operation input unit 15 can be composed of hard keys (for example, numeric keys) and buttons or the like. Note that the operation input unit 15 can also be configured as a touch panel capable of input via the display unit 13. In this case, as the input detection method of the touch panel, for example, methods such as a resistive film method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, and a capacitance method can be adopted.

[0021] The communication unit 17 connects to other devices via a network (NW) such as a LAN (Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), the Internet, a general access telephone line, and a facsimile communication network, and transmits and receives various information such as image data and facsimile data, and electronic mail. The communication unit 17 is configured as, for example, a communicable interface, and as a connection method, either wired / wireless or both can be adopted.

[0022] The image forming unit 19 forms an image based on the image data on the paper. The image forming unit 19 feeds the paper from the paper feeding unit 25, forms an image based on the image data on the paper, and then discharges the paper to the paper discharging unit 27. The image forming unit 19 can be configured by, for example, a laser printer using an electrophotographic method. The image forming unit 19 performs image formation using toner supplied from a toner cartridge (not shown) corresponding to the toner color (for example, yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), black (K)).

[0023] The image reading unit 21 generates scan data by reading the image to be read. The image reading unit 21 can be configured by a scanner device or the like that converts an image into an electrical signal by an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or CIS (Contact Image Sensor), and generates digital data by quantizing and encoding the image signal.

[0024] The paper feeding unit 25 has a tray for storing a plurality of sheets of paper stacked. The tray can store sheets of paper having various sizes and thicknesses according to the application. The paper feeding unit 25 can be composed of, for example, a plurality of trays that individually store sheets of paper of different sizes such as A4 size, B5 size, and A3 size.

[0025] The paper discharging unit 27 includes a plate-shaped stacker for stacking the sheets of paper discharged to the outside of the apparatus after image formation. As shown in FIG. 1, a plurality of stackers may be provided at a plurality of locations so that sheets of paper of different sizes can be discharged.

[0026] The storage unit 23 stores various programs and various data necessary for the operation of the multifunction machine 10. The storage unit 23 can be composed of, for example, a volatile memory such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), a solid-state drive (SSD) which is a semiconductor memory, a hard disk drive (HDD), a non-volatile memory such as a ROM (Read Only Memory).

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

[0028] The job execution program 231 is a program read by the control unit 11 to perform processing associated with the execution of functions such as a print function, a fax function, a scan function, and a network communication function in units of jobs. The control unit 11 controls each unit involved in the execution of the job by reading the job execution program 231.

[0029] The first authentication program 232 is a program read by the control unit 11 when the logged-in user logs in to the multifunction machine 10. The control unit 11 that has read the first authentication program 232 performs authentication based on, for example, the logged-in user name and the login password input via the login screen.

[0030] The setting history information processing program 233 is a program that the control unit 11 reads out when performing various processes such as obtaining setting values related to the execution of a job, generating setting history information, and performing various processes on the setting history information. The control unit 11 obtains the setting values related to the execution of the job by reading out the setting history information processing program 233 and stores them in the setting value storage area 236. Further, the control unit 11 generates setting history information using the obtained setting values and stores it in the setting history information storage area 237.

[0031] The shared setting program 234 is a program that the control unit 11 reads out when performing operations such as allowing a login user who is the execution user of a job to permit other users to use the setting history information related to their own executed job (in this disclosure, this act is referred to as sharing). The control unit 11 reads out the shared setting program 234, for example, when an identifier for permitting sharing displayed on the display unit 13 is selected by the login user.

[0032] The display processing program 235 is a program that the control unit 11 reads out when performing display processing of setting history information and display processing of a common screen described later. The control unit 11 reads out the display processing program 235 and controls the display unit 13, thereby enabling display processing of the setting history information and the common screen.

[0033] The setting value storage area 236 is a storage area that stores various setting values related to the execution of a job. The setting values include setting values set by the login user in the execution of each job, device initial values held by the device itself, and the like.

[0034] Note that the setting value may be a value directly input by the login user via a touch panel or the like displayed on the operation input unit 15 or the display unit 13. Further, when the multifunction device 10 is connected to an external terminal device (not shown) via the communication unit 17, the control unit 11 can also obtain setting values input via a control program such as a printer driver introduced in the external terminal device. The control unit 11 stores the obtained setting values in the setting value storage area 236.

[0035] The setting history information storage area 237 is a storage area that stores setting history information in a data table format. The setting history information according to the first embodiment is information composed of a combination of part or all of the setting values stored in the setting value storage area 236 and history information related to the execution of a job such as a job function, an execution user name, and a start date / time / end date / time, and can be configured as history information with a job ID attached thereto for uniquely identifying the information.

[0036] FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a configuration example of setting history information. Here, for example, the job ID: JD000335 indicates that it is setting history information related to a simple copy with the user name: S000123 as the execution user. The job was executed by the execution user S000123 at 16:20 on November 14, 2019 and ended at 16:21 on the same day. Note that the installation values (items) included in the setting history information are not particularly limited as long as they are the setting values stored in the setting value storage area 236. Also, the setting values shown in FIG. 3 are merely examples, and the setting values in the present disclosure are not limited only by the content shown in FIG. 3.

[0037] [1.2 Flow of processing] Next, the flow of processing according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining the processing from the display of the common screen of the multifunction device 10 to the display of setting history information and the execution of jobs of other functions.

[0038] Note that the common screen is a screen that aggregates and arranges input buttons having a screen configuration in which these functions and information are illustrated by graphics, characters / numbers, or symbols in order to receive inputs such as selection of job functions and display instructions for setting history information. The common screen is a screen called a so-called home screen and functions as an interface for users and the like.

[0039] In this specification, the common screen displayed before a login user or the like logs in to the device or when the login authentication function is in an off state is referred to as the first common screen.

[0040] In addition, after the logged-in user logs in to the device, the common screen to be displayed is referred to as the second common screen.

[0041] First, in step S10, the control unit 11 reads the display processing program 235 and displays the first common screen on the display unit 13.

[0042] The control unit 11 displays the first common screen, for example, when the device is powered on, when recovering from the sleep state, before the logged-in user or the like logs in to the device, and when the login authentication function is in the off state.

[0043] When the control unit 11 receives a login request via the first common screen, the control unit 11 reads the first authentication program 232. Then, the control unit 11 displays a login screen for receiving inputs such as the login username and login password of the login user who attempts to log in on the display unit 13.

[0044] In step S20, the control unit 11 receives the input of the login username via the login screen and performs authentication. The control unit 11 can perform authentication, for example, by associating and storing the login username and the login password and comparing the login username and the login password input via the login screen.

[0045] Note that for the authentication of the logged-in user, in addition to knowledge authentication such as the login username and the login password, it is also possible to perform authentication using possession authentication such as tokens, keys, IC cards, smartphones, etc., and biometric authentication such as fingerprint authentication, palmprint authentication, and blood vessel authentication.

[0046] If the login authentication is successful, in step S30, the control unit 11 displays the second common screen.

[0047] On the other hand, when the authentication of the logged-in user fails or the screen operation is not a login operation, the control unit 11 returns the process to step S10 and keeps the display as the first common screen.

[0048] In step S40, the control unit 11 receives an input for instructing the display of setting history information. When there is an input for instructing the display of setting history information, the control unit 11 reads out the setting history information processing program 233 and the display processing program 235.

[0049] In step S50, the control unit 11 that has read out the display processing program 235 displays the setting history information related to the job executed by the logged-in user.

[0050] At this time, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the control unit 11 summarizes, for each logged-in user, the setting history information related to the job executed by the logged-in user, for example, in chronological order from the newest. The example in FIG. 5 shows an example in which the setting history information related to the jobs executed by the user names: S0000123, S0000065, and 0000222 is summarized. When the logged-in user is the user name: S0000123, the control unit 11 displays the result of summarizing the setting history information related to the job of the user name: S0000123.

[0051] On the other hand, when the input in step S40 is not an input for instructing the display of setting history information, the control unit 11 executes, in step S60, the job of other functions input by the logged-in user and ends the process.

[0052] Note that when the control unit 11 executes the job of other functions, it reads out the setting history information processing program 233 and acquires the setting values related to the execution of the job and generates the setting history information. In this case, the control unit 11 may generate the history related to the execution of the job as the job history.

[0053] Next, the processes from the display process of the setting history information to the job execution will be described using the flowchart of FIG. 6. Note that the process according to step S50 is the same as the process of step S50 in FIG. 4.

[0054] When the setting history information is displayed, in step S70, the control unit 11 determines whether an input instruction for the shared setting has been given. For example, the control unit 11 can determine that an input instruction for the shared setting has been given when an identifier for accepting a selection of whether to permit sharing of the setting history information is selected by the logged-in user.

[0055] When it is determined that an input instruction for the shared setting has been given, in step S80, the control unit 11 performs a shared setting process by reading out the shared setting program 234.

[0056] In step S90, the control unit 11 reflects the shared setting in the setting history information. That is, when the control unit 11 performs this process, other users can use the setting history information.

[0057] After reflecting the shared setting in the setting history information or when an input instruction for the shared setting is not received in step S70, in step S100, the control unit 11 determines whether the setting history information desired by the logged-in user has been selected.

[0058] When the setting history information is selected, in step S110, the control unit 11 accepts an input of an execution instruction for the job.

[0059] When an input of an execution instruction for the job is accepted, in step S120, the control unit 11 reads out the set value related to the setting history information.

[0060] In step S130, the control unit 11 executes the job based on the read set value and ends the process.

[0061] Note that when the control unit 11 executes a job, it reads out the setting history information processing program 233 and acquires setting values related to the execution of the job and generates setting history information. In this case, the control unit 11 may generate a history related to the execution of the job as a job history.

[0062] [1.3 Operation Example] Next, an operation example according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a configuration example of the first common screen. Note that this operation example corresponds to the operation in step S10 of FIG. 4.

[0063] The first common screen W10 is a home screen that is displayed when the device is powered on, when it resumes from the sleep state, before the logged-in user logs in to the device, and when the login authentication function is off.

[0064] The first common screen W10 includes a job function etc. display area R11, a job function etc. display area switching button B13, and a job function etc. display area indicator I11.

[0065] The job function etc. display area R11 is an area that aggregates and displays job function etc. input buttons B11 for receiving selection of each job function, display instruction of setting history information, etc. The job function etc. input button B11 is an input button having a screen configuration in which each job function and each piece of information etc. are illustrated with graphics, characters / numbers, or symbols etc.

[0066] The job function etc. display area R11 according to FIG. 7 is an example configured by job function etc. input buttons B11 that receive selection of each job function such as simple copy, simple fax, simple scan, print release, shared folder, One Drive, scan save, etc. and display instruction input of setting history information.

[0067] The job function display area switching button B13 accepts pressing by the user when switching the display content of the job function display area R11. When the job function display area switching button B13 is pressed by the user, the job function input button B11 is switched, and thus the display content of the job function display area R11 is switched.

[0068] The job function display area indicator I11 is an indicator that indicates whether any job function display area is being displayed. For example, when the job function display area being displayed is the content of the job function display area R11 illustrated in FIG. 7, the round mark at the left end is displayed in white. For example, when the display content of the job function display area R11 is switched by pressing the job function display area switching button B13 once, the round mark immediately to the right of the round mark at the left end will be displayed in white.

[0069] FIG. 8 is a configuration example of a setting history information display screen W20 that is displayed by the control unit 11 when the job function input button B11 related to the display instruction of the setting history information shown in FIG. 7 is pressed.

[0070] Since the setting history information display screen W20 displays the setting history information in a state where the login user has not been authenticated, the setting history information related to all users can be browsed.

[0071] The setting history information display screen W20 includes a setting history information display area R13, and the setting history information related to each job is displayed within the setting history information display area R13. FIG. 8 is an example in which the setting history information related to jobs executed based on four job functions, namely, simple copy by execution user name: S000123, simple copy by execution user name: S000065, simple scan (Scan to Email) by execution user name: S000123, and simple fax by execution user name: S000222, is displayed in chronological order from the newest.

[0072] Here, each setting history information includes a setting value display area R15, a user name display area R17, a job function display area R19, a job execution date and time display area R21, and a process selection button B15.

[0073] The setting value display area R15 is a display area that displays the setting values included in the setting history information illustrated in FIG. 3. There is no particular limitation on the setting value items to be displayed in the setting value display area R15, and any setting value items can be selected and displayed. Here, as an example of the setting value items for the simple copy as a job function, the finishing function: "yokotoji", "one place", and paper tray: "hand insertion" are displayed.

[0074] The user name display area R17 is a display area that displays the user name of the job executor. Here, an example is shown where the user with the user name: S000123 is displayed as the job executor user name.

[0075] The job function display area R19 is an area that displays an iconized or thumbnail image of the screen configuration of the job function input button B11 so that it can be intuitively grasped whether the displayed setting history information is based on any job function. By browsing the image displayed in the job function display area R19, the user can grasp the job function related to the setting history information.

[0076] The job execution date and time display area R21 is a display area that displays the job execution date and time.

[0077] The process selection button B15 accepts the selection of a predetermined process (for example, deletion or pinning) for the setting history information. For example, the logged-in user can delete the setting history information by selecting the trash can mark displayed as the process selection button B15.

[0078] Also, for example, the logged-in user can preferentially display the setting history information by selecting the pin mark displayed as the process selection button B15.

[0079] FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining a configuration example of a login screen displayed by the control unit 11. This operation corresponds to the operation of step S20 in FIG. 4.

[0080] The login screen W30 includes a login user name input box Bx11, a login password input box Bx13, an authentication destination selection button B17, an OK button B19, a cancel button B21, and a reset button B23.

[0081] The login user name input box Bx11 is an input box for receiving the input of the login user name of the login user who attempts to log in to the multifunction machine 10.

[0082] The login password input box Bx13 is an input box for receiving the input of the login password associated with the login user name of the login user who attempts to log in to the multifunction machine 10.

[0083] The authentication destination selection button B17 is a button for receiving the selection of the authentication destination of the login user. In the example shown in FIG. 9, an example is shown where the machine (multifunction machine 10) alone is selected as the authentication destination of the login user. When managing the login user with another device such as a management server via a network (NW), it is possible to select the name of the other device and the location information (e.g., IP address, etc.) of the other device on the network.

[0084] The OK button B19 is a button for receiving the login authentication operation by the login user. The cancel button B21 is a button for receiving the cancellation of the login authentication operation by the login user.

[0085] The reset button B23 is a button for receiving the press by the login user when resetting the input / operation content to the initial value.

[0086] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a configuration example of the second common screen W11. This operation corresponds to the operation of step S30 in FIG. 4.

[0087] The second common screen W11 is a home screen that is displayed when the authentication of the logged-in user is successful in step S20 of FIG. 4.

[0088] The configuration of the second common screen W11 can be the same as that of the first common screen W10, but is different in that it includes a logged-in user name display area R23.

[0089] The logged-in user name display area R23 is a display area that displays the logged-in user name for which the login to the multifunction device 10 has been successful. In FIG. 10, it is an example in which a user with the user name: S000123 is displayed as the logged-in user. In the example shown in FIG. 10, the display position of the logged-in user name display area R23 is at the upper part of the second common screen W11. However, as long as the logged-in user name can be recognized by the browsing user, the display position is not limited to this.

[0090] FIG. 11 is a configuration example of a setting history information display screen W21a that is displayed by the control unit 11 when a job function input button B11 related to the display instruction of the setting history information shown in FIG. 10 is pressed. This operation corresponds to the processing of steps S40 and S50 in FIG. 4.

[0091] The configuration of the setting history information display screen W21a can be the same as that of the setting history information display screen W20. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for the same configuration.

[0092] The setting history information display screen W21a includes a setting history information display area R25, similar to the setting history information display screen W20. In the setting history information display area R25, the setting history information related to each job is displayed, but as shown in the user name display area R17, the setting history information related to the jobs executed by the user related to the logged-in user name displayed in the logged-in user name display area R23 is displayed.

[0093] FIG. 11 is an example of collectively displaying setting history information related to jobs executed by the logged-in user with the user name: S000123. While logged in to the multifunction machine 10, when the job function input button B11 related to the display instruction of the setting history information on the second common screen W11 is pressed, the control unit 11 collectively displays the setting history information related to the jobs executed by the logged-in user, as exemplified in FIG. 5.

[0094] With the above configuration, the logged-in user can grasp the setting history information related to the jobs they have executed. At this time, in addition to the processing selection button B15, a sharing setting button B25 for selecting whether to permit other users to use the setting history information is displayed within the setting history information display area R25.

[0095] FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining the screen transition of the setting history information display screen W21a when the sharing setting button B25 is pressed. Note that this operation corresponds to the processing from step S50 to step S90 in FIG. 6.

[0096] When the logged-in user determines the setting history information to be shared, they press the sharing setting button B25 corresponding to the setting history information (FIG. 12(a)).

[0097] When the sharing setting button B25 is pressed, the control unit 11 selectively displays the sharing setting button B25 (for example, displays it in a predetermined selection color). The selective display of the sharing setting button B25 means that the setting history information related to the simple copy job by the executing user name: S000123 has been shared (FIG. 12(b)).

[0098] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing how the setting history information related to the simple copy job by the executing user name: S000123 has been shared by the processing related to steps S50 to S90 in FIG. 6 and the operation related to FIG. 12.

[0099] FIG. 13 is an example of a configuration when another user with the user name: S888888 logs in to the multifunction machine 10 and displays the setting history information display screen W21c.

[0100] On the setting history information display screen W21c, in addition to the setting history information related to the jobs executed by other users with the user name: S888888 as the logged-in user, the setting history information related to the simple copy job by the executing user name: S000123 is also displayed (within the dotted frame in the figure). As a result, other users with the user name: S888888 can execute jobs using the setting history information of the executing user name: S000123. Jobs based on the selection of the shared setting history information can be executed by the processing based on steps S100 to S130 in FIG. 6.

[0101] By the way, when a job is executed based on the shared setting history information, the setting history information becomes normal setting history information. At this time, the shared setting history information can be left displayed.

[0102] FIG. 14 is a configuration example of the setting history information display screen W21d after a job is executed based on the shared setting history information.

[0103] When the logged-in user with the user name: S888888 executes a job using the setting history information of the executing user name: S000123 from the state shown in FIG. 13, the used setting history information remains displayed at the topmost position. On the other hand, the setting history information corresponding to the job executed using the setting history information is displayed as the setting history information in a state where the shared setting is released (a state where normal sharing setting is not made), as shown within the dotted frame in the figure.

[0104] Note that the setting history information can be protected to enable reuse by the same executing user. When protected and shared, the shared setting history information is displayed at the topmost position of the setting history information display screen, just like in the case of normal protection. When temporarily using the setting history information, do not protect it, and if you want to keep it, protect it and then share it. In this case, it is preferable that the ON / OFF of the protection is interlocked among users.

[0105] In addition, the shared setting history information can be deleted after being unprotected. When the shared setting history information is deleted, it is preferable that the setting history information shared among users is deleted.

[0106] Furthermore, when sharing is cancelled, the setting history information related to sharing other than the other users who first shared is made non-displayed, while the shared setting history information of the other users who first shared is returned to the setting history information with no normal sharing settings, thereby preventing the use of the setting history information for which the sharing setting has been cancelled.

[0107] As described above, according to the first embodiment, it is possible to provide a multifunction machine capable of sharing setting history information based on jobs executed by a logged-in user who has logged in to the device with other users.

[0108] [2. Second Embodiment] The multifunction machine 30 according to the second embodiment is a form of a multifunction machine capable of selecting other users who disclose the setting history information to be shared when sharing the setting history information based on jobs executed by a logged-in user who has logged in to the device with other users. [2.1 Functional Configuration] The overall configuration of the multifunction machine 30 according to the second embodiment can be configured in the same manner as the multifunction machine 10 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the figure for explaining the overall configuration is omitted. FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining the functional configuration of the multifunction machine 30. Note that the same reference numerals are given to the same functions as those of the multifunction machine 10 and the description thereof is omitted.

[0109] The multifunction machine 30 includes a storage unit 33 instead of the storage unit 23 of the multifunction machine 10. The storage unit 33 stores a job execution program 231, a first authentication program 232, a setting history information processing program 233, a sharing setting program 234, a display processing program 235, and a user selection program 331, and secures a setting value storage area 236 and a setting history information storage area 237.

[0110] The user selection program 331 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when selecting other users (hereinafter referred to as public users) who will disclose the setting history information to be shared. At this time, the control unit 11 also reads the display processing program 235 and displays a selection screen for accepting the selection of public users.

[0111] [2.2 Flow of processing] Next, the flow of processing according to the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 16 is a flowchart for explaining the processing from the display processing of the setting history information to the execution of the job. The flow of processing according to the second embodiment is provided with a public user selection acceptance process between step S80 and step S90 in FIG. 6, and other processes can be performed as the same processes. Therefore, for other processes, the same step numbers are assigned and the description is omitted.

[0112] Note that whether to accept the selection of public users can be selected in the system settings.

[0113] In step S80, when performing the sharing setting process, the control unit 11 performs the selection acceptance of public users in step S140. Specifically, the control unit 11 reads the user selection program 331 and the display processing program 235.

[0114] When a public user is selected by the logged-in user via the displayed public user selection screen, the control unit 11 reflects the sharing settings and the public user in the setting history information in step S90.

[0115] The processing after step S100 can be performed in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0116] [2.3 Example of operation] Next, an example of operation according to the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 17 is a configuration example of the public user selection screen W40 displayed on the setting history information display screen W21e.

[0117] The public user selection screen W40 includes a user display area R27 that lists users other than the logged-in user of the multifunction device 30 so that the public user can be selected. Fig. 17(a) shows an example in which six user names from the user with the user name: S0000001 (Ue Imonao) to the user with the user name: S0000006 (Yohifu Tsuneho) are displayed in the user display area R27 as candidates for publicizing the shared setting history information.

[0118] From the state shown in Fig. 17(a), the logged-in user selects the user name of the public user of the shared setting history information. The selected user names (user name: S0000001 (Ue Imonao), user: S0000004 (Tatewaki Hito)) are selected and displayed as shown in Fig. 17(b). Note that the number of selectable users may be one or more. The control unit 11 sets the selected user as the public user and applies it to the shared setting history information.

[0119] As described above, according to the second embodiment, when sharing the setting history information based on the jobs executed by the logged-in user who has logged in to the device with other users, it is possible to limit the public users who publicize the shared setting history information. As a result, users other than the public users cannot view and use the shared setting history information, so the logged-in user can prevent the unintended use of the setting history information.

[0120] [3. Third Embodiment] The multifunction device 50 according to the third embodiment is a form of multifunction device that can set authentication information for authenticating the use of the shared setting history information when sharing the setting history information based on the jobs executed by the logged-in user who has logged in to the device with other users. [3.1 Functional Configuration] The overall configuration of the multifunction device 50 according to the third embodiment can be configured in the same manner as the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the figure for explaining the overall configuration is omitted. Fig. 18 is a diagram for explaining the functional configuration of the multifunction device 50. Note that the same reference numerals are given to the same functions as those of the multifunction device 10, and the description thereof is omitted.

[0121] The multi-function machine 50 includes a storage unit 53 instead of the storage unit 23 of the multi-function machine 10. The storage unit 53 stores a job execution program 231, a first authentication program 232, a setting history information processing program 233, a shared setting program 234, a display processing program 235, and a second authentication program 531, and secures a setting value storage area 236 and a setting history information storage area 237.

[0122] The second authentication program 531 is a program that the control unit 11 reads out during the setting and authentication process of the authentication information for the shared setting history information. At this time, the control unit 11 also reads out the display processing program 235 and displays an authentication information reception screen for receiving the setting or input of the authentication information.

[0123] [3.2 Flow of processing] Next, the flow of processing according to the third embodiment will be described. FIG. 19 is a flowchart for explaining the processing from the display processing of the setting history information to the execution of the job. The flow of processing according to the third embodiment is provided with an authentication information setting reception process between step S80 and step S90 and an authentication information input reception process between step S100 and step S110. Therefore, for other processes, the same step numbers are assigned and the description is omitted.

[0124] Note that whether to attach authentication information to the shared setting history information can be selected in the system settings.

[0125] In step S80, when the shared setting process is performed, the control unit 11 performs the reception of the setting of the authentication information in step S150. Specifically, the control unit 11 reads out the second authentication program 531 and the display processing program 235.

[0126] When the authentication information is set by the logged-in user via the displayed authentication information setting screen, the control unit 11 reflects the shared setting and the authentication information in the setting history information in step S90.

[0127] Next, in step S100, when the setting history information is selected by a login user (in this case, a login user different from the shared setting login user), the control unit 11 displays an authentication information input screen for authenticating the use of the setting history information in step S160.

[0128] When the control unit 11 receives the authentication information input in step S160, the control unit 11 receives the input of a job execution instruction in step S110.

[0129] The processing after step S120 can be performed in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0130] [3.3 Operation Example] Next, an operation example according to the third embodiment will be described. FIG. 20 is a configuration example of the authentication information setting screen W50 displayed on the setting history information display screen W21f.

[0131] As shown in FIG. 20(a), the authentication information setting screen W50 is a setting screen displayed by the control unit 11 upon receiving the pressing of the shared setting button B25. The authentication information setting screen W50 includes a password setting box Bx15 for receiving the setting of a password as authentication information, an OK button B27, and a reset button B29.

[0132] The password setting box Bx15 is an input box for receiving the setting input of a password as authentication information by the login user.

[0133] The OK button B27 is a button for receiving the password setting operation by the login user. The reset button B29 is a button for receiving the pressing by the user when the input / operation content is to be returned to the initial value.

[0134] When the user sets a password in the password setting box Bx15 and the OK button B27 is pressed, the control unit 11 selectively displays the shared setting button B25 related to the setting history information for which the password has been set, as shown in FIG. 20(b).

[0135] Figure 21 is a configuration example of a setting history information display screen W21g that is displayed when another user with the user name: S888888 logs in to the multifunction machine 50.

[0136] The setting history information display screen W21g illustrated in Figure 21(a) shows, similar to the example in Figure 13, in addition to the setting history information related to the jobs executed by the user with the user name: S888888, the setting history information related to the simple copy job by the executing user name: S000123 (inside the dotted line frame in the figure).

[0137] At this time, for the setting history information with a password set as authentication information, when using the setting history information, a key mark M10 indicating that authentication by password input is required is attached.

[0138] And when the setting history information with the key mark M10 attached is selected by another user, the control unit 11 displays an authentication information input screen W60 illustrated in Figure 21(b).

[0139] The authentication information input screen W60 includes a password input box Bx17 that accepts input of a password as authentication information, an OK button B31, and a reset button B33.

[0140] The password input box Bx17 is an input box that accepts input of the password set as authentication information.

[0141] The OK button B31 is a button that accepts a password input operation by another user. The reset button B33 is a button that accepts pressing by another user when the input / operation content is to be reset to the initial value.

[0142] When a password is entered into the password input box Bx17 by another user and the OK button B31 is pressed, the control unit 11 collates the entered password with the password set in the setting history information. When both passwords match, the control unit 11 authenticates the sharing of the setting history information.

[0143] As described above, according to the third embodiment, when sharing the setting history information based on the job executed by the logged-in user who has logged in to the device with other users, authentication information can be set for the shared setting history information. Thereby, unless the authentication information set for the shared setting history information is correctly input, the setting history information cannot be used, so that the security can be improved.

[0144] [4. Fourth Embodiment] The multifunction device 70 according to the fourth embodiment is a form of a multifunction device that can inquire whether to share the setting history information when the setting history information based on the job executed by the logged-in user who has logged in to the device is used a predetermined number of times or more. [4.1 Functional Configuration] The overall configuration of the multifunction device 70 according to the fourth embodiment can be configured in the same manner as the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the figure for explaining the overall configuration is omitted. FIG. 22 is a diagram for explaining the functional configuration of the multifunction device 70. Note that the same reference numerals are given to the same functions as those of the multifunction device 10 and the description thereof is omitted.

[0145] The multifunction device 70 includes a storage unit 73 instead of the storage unit 23 of the multifunction device 10. The storage unit 73 stores a job execution program 231, a first authentication program 232, a setting history information processing program 233, a sharing setting program 234, a display processing program 235, and an inquiry program 731, and secures a setting value storage area 236 and a setting history information storage area 237.

[0146] The inquiry program 731 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when determining whether the same setting history information has been used a predetermined number of times or more (when determining whether a job based on the same setting history information has been executed a plurality of times or more). The control unit 11 inquires whether to use the setting history information as a shared setting. At this time, the control unit 11 also reads the display processing program 235 to display an inquiry screen.

[0147] [4.2 Flow of Processing] Next, the flow of processing according to the fourth embodiment will be described. FIG. 23 is a flowchart for explaining the processing from the selection of the setting history information to the shared setting inquiry.

[0148] In step S170, when the user selects the setting history information related to the execution of the job, the control unit 11 receives an input of an execution instruction for the job in step S180.

[0149] In step S190, the control unit 11 reads the set value related to the setting history information.

[0150] In step S200, the control unit 11 executes the job based on the read set value.

[0151] In step S210, the control unit 11 reads the inquiry program 731 and determines whether the same setting history information has been used a predetermined number of times or more.

[0152] If the same setting history information has been used a predetermined number of times or more, in step S220, the control unit 11 inquires whether to use the setting history information as a shared setting and ends the process. Note that the predetermined number of times is not particularly limited. For example, when the predetermined number of times is set to 3, the control unit 11 displays an inquiry screen for inquiring whether to use the setting history information as a shared setting when the same setting history information has been used 3 times.

[0153] [4.3 Operation Example] Next, an operation example according to the fourth embodiment will be described. FIG. 24 is a configuration example of the inquiry screen W70 displayed on the setting history information display screen W21h.

[0154] As shown in FIG. 24(a), the inquiry screen W70 is an inquiry screen displayed by the control unit 11 when the same setting history information is used a predetermined number of times or more. The inquiry screen W70 includes an inquiry content display area R29, a "Yes" button B35, and a "No" button B37.

[0155] The inquiry content display area R29 is a display area for displaying the inquiry content (content prompting the sharing setting of the setting history information). FIG. 24(a) is an example in which "Do you want to share this setting history?" and "Inquiry time (2019 / 11 / 14 16:20)" are written together as the inquiry content, but the inquiry content is not limited to the content illustrated in FIG. 24(a). Any display mode may be used as long as it prompts the sharing setting of the setting history information.

[0156] The "Yes" button B35 is a button pressed by the logged-in user when accepting the inquiry content. The "No" button B37 is a button pressed by the logged-in user when not accepting the inquiry content.

[0157] When the inquiry content is accepted by the logged-in user and the "Yes" button B35 is pressed, the control unit 11, as shown in FIG. 24(b), selectively displays the sharing setting button B25 and notifies that the setting history information has been shared.

[0158] As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, when the setting history information based on the job executed by the logged-in user who has logged in to the device is used a predetermined number of times or more, it is possible to inquire whether to set the setting history information as a shared setting. As a result, the user can grasp the high usage frequency of the setting history information, and can be aware that it is possible to improve the convenience among users by setting the setting history information as a shared setting.

[0159] [5. Fifth Embodiment] The multi-function device 90 according to the fifth embodiment is in the form of a multi-function device capable of searching for shared setting history information. [5.1 Functional Configuration] The overall configuration of the multi-function device 90 according to the fifth embodiment can be configured in the same manner as the multi-function device 10 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the figure for explaining the overall configuration is omitted. FIG. 25 is a diagram for explaining the functional configuration of the multi-function device 90. For the same functions as those of the multi-function device 10, the same reference numerals are given and the description thereof is omitted.

[0160] The multi-function device 90 includes a storage unit 93 instead of the storage unit 23 of the multi-function device 10. The storage unit 93 stores a job execution program 231, a first authentication program 232, a setting history information processing program 233, a shared setting program 234, a display processing program 235, and a search program 931, and secures a setting value storage area 236 and a setting history information storage area 237.

[0161] The search program 931 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when searching for shared setting history information. At this time, the control unit 11 also reads the display processing program 235 together to display a search screen.

[0162] [5.2 Flow of Processing] Next, the flow of processing according to the fifth embodiment will be described. Note that the search process for setting history information according to the fifth embodiment can be performed at an arbitrary timing without special processing as long as the display process of the setting history information by the logged-in user is performed in steps S40 and S50 of FIG. 4.

[0163] FIG. 26 is a flowchart for explaining the processing from the display process of the setting history information to the display process of the setting history information based on the search result.

[0164] First, in step S230, according to the processing related to steps S40 and S50 of FIG. 4, the control unit 11 displays the setting history information.

[0165] In step S240, the control unit 11 determines whether an input of a search instruction has been received. Note that for the input of a search instruction, for example, by receiving the pressing of a specific button that receives the input of a search instruction, the control unit 11 can determine that the input of a search instruction has been received.

[0166] When an input of a search instruction is received, in step S250, the control unit 11 determines whether search conditions have been input.

[0167] When search conditions are input, in step S260, the control unit 11 searches for the setting history information shared based on the input search conditions (search values).

[0168] Then, in step S270, the control unit 11 displays the shared setting history information based on the search results and ends the process.

[0169] [5.3 Operation Example] Next, an operation example according to the fifth embodiment will be described. FIG. 27(a) is a configuration example of a setting history information display screen W21i including a search instruction input button B39 for receiving an input of a search instruction.

[0170] In the state shown in FIG. 27(a), when the user presses the search instruction input button B39, the control unit 11 displays a search screen W70 illustrated in FIG. 27(b).

[0171] The search screen W70 includes a user name input box Bx19, a job input box Bx21, a date and time (period) input box Bx23, a search start button B41, and a cancel button B43 for receiving an input of search conditions.

[0172] The user name input box Bx19 is an input box that receives an input of a user name as a search value when searching for the shared setting history information.

[0173] The job input box Bx21 is an input box that accepts the input of job functions as search values when searching for shared setting history information.

[0174] The date and time (period) input box Bx23 is an input box that accepts the input of the execution date and time or execution period of a job as search values when searching for shared setting history information.

[0175] The search start button B41 is a button that accepts pressing by a user or the like when the input of search values into each input box is completed and the search is to be started. When the search start button B41 is pressed, the control unit 11 searches for the shared setting history information based on the search values input into each input box. Note that each search value is not limited to the above-mentioned user name, job function, or execution date and time (period) of the job. It is of course possible to use specific setting values included in the setting history information as search values.

[0176] The cancel button B43 is a button that is pressed by a user or the like when canceling the search process.

[0177] The control unit 11 lists the setting history information that matches the search conditions and displays it on the setting history information display screen (not shown).

[0178] As described above, according to the fifth embodiment, even when a large amount of shared setting history information is accumulated, the shared setting history information can be efficiently searched using a predetermined search value. As a result, since a user or the like can surely acquire the desired setting history information, the shared setting history information can be effectively utilized.

[0179] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible. That is, embodiments obtained by appropriately combining technical means modified within the scope not departing from the gist of the present invention are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0180] In addition, for the sake of explanation, the above-described embodiments have parts that are separately explained, but it goes without saying that they may be combined and executed within the technically possible range.

[0181] Also, the program that operates in each device in the embodiment is a program that controls a CPU or the like (a program that causes a computer to function) so as to realize the functions of the above-described embodiments. And the information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (for example, RAM) during its processing, and then stored in a storage device such as various ROMs (Read Only Memory) and HDDs, and read out by the CPU as necessary for correction and writing.

[0182] Here, as the recording medium for storing the program, any of a semiconductor medium (for example, ROM, non-volatile memory card, etc.), an optical recording medium or a magneto-optical recording medium (for example, DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), MO (Magneto Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), CD (Compact Disc), BD (Blu-ray Disk (registered trademark), etc.)), a magnetic recording medium (for example, magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.) may be used. Also, by executing the loaded program, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but in some cases, the functions of the present invention are realized by processing in cooperation with an operating system or other application programs or the like based on the instructions of the program.

[0183] Also, when distributing on the market, the program can be stored in a portable recording medium for distribution, or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, it goes without saying that the storage device of the server computer is also included in the present invention.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0184] 10, 30, 50, 70, 90 Multifunction Device 11 Control Unit 13 Display Unit 15 Operation input unit 17 Communication unit 19 Image forming unit 21 Image reading unit 23, 33, 53, 73, 93 Memory unit 231 Job execution program 232 First authentication program 233 Setting history information processing program 234 Sharing setting program 235 Display processing program 236 Set value memory area 237 Setting history information memory area 531 Second authentication program 331 User selection program 731 Inquiry program 931 Search program

Claims

1. a control unit that executes jobs; a storage unit that stores the history of the executed jobs; a display unit that displays a history display screen for displaying the stored history, and comprising: the control unit: displays the history shared in the first history display screen for displaying the history of jobs executed by the first user, together with the history of jobs executed by the second user, on the second history display screen for displaying the history of jobs executed by the second user. An image forming apparatus characterized by the above.

2. the control unit: When the second user is set as a user who discloses the shared history, the image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the shared history is displayed on the second history display screen.

3. the control unit: On the first history display screen, a sharing setting button for performing a sharing setting related to the history of jobs executed by the first user is displayed, and the sharing setting button corresponding to the shared history is displayed in a selected state. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

4. the control unit: On the second history display screen, the image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the shared history is displayed with priority over the history of jobs executed by the second user.

5. the control unit: Even after the second user executes a job based on the shared history, the image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the shared history is displayed on the second history display screen.

6. the control unit: When the sharing setting for the shared history is cancelled, the image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the shared history is not displayed on the second history display screen.

7. the control unit: When the sharing setting for the shared history is cancelled, the image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the history for which the sharing setting has been cancelled is displayed on the first history display screen.

8. A control method for an image forming apparatus including a control unit that executes jobs, a storage unit that stores the history of the executed jobs, and a display unit that displays a history display screen for displaying the stored history. A control method for an image forming apparatus, the method including a step of displaying, on a second history display screen for displaying a history of jobs executed by a second user, shared history on a first history display screen for displaying a history of jobs executed by a first user, together with the history of jobs executed by the second user.

Images