Information processing device, control method, and program

Abstract

To prevent secondary infection due to use of an information processing device of a second user after a first user uses the information processing device.SOLUTION: An information processing device 1 having a plurality of operation parts 8 operable by a user includes a user detection part 40 for detecting the user, an operation detection part 44 for detecting an operation part 8 operated by a first user among a plurality of operation parts 8 when the user detection part 40 detects the first user, a storage part 32 for storing operation information 34 obtained by recording the operation part 8 detected by the operation detection part 44, and a notification part 46 for reading the operation information 34 from the storage part 32 to notify the second user of the operation part 8 operated by the first user when the user detection part 40 detects the second user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device, a control method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Information processing devices such as MFPs (Multifunction Peripherals) installed in offices and other locations are commonly shared by multiple users. The basic specification for these types of information processing devices is that they are operated by direct hand contact. For example, when executing a scan job, copy job, or the like, the user operates an operation panel on the information processing device to set up the job. Furthermore, when an error occurs in the information processing device, such as when the paper tray is empty or the toner is empty, the user manually pulls out the paper feed tray to refill the paper or opens the front door of the device main body to replace the toner bottle. Furthermore, when copy paper is output onto the output tray during a copy job, the user reaches into the output tray to retrieve the output copy paper.

[0003] Conventionally, in the information processing device described above, for example, after a copy job is executed and the document is removed from the tray, if copy paper remains on the paper output tray even after a predetermined time has passed, a device has been proposed that warns the user that the copy paper has been forgotten (for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-250361 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] With the recent spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), it is necessary to prevent the spread of infection through information processing devices shared by multiple users. As described above, information processing devices are frequently operated by users who directly touch them with their hands, so there is a possibility that the infection will spread if another user touches the same operation unit that an infected person touched. On the other hand, if another user uses the information processing device without touching the operation unit that an infected person touched, the possibility of the infection spreading is reduced.

[0006] Although the above-mentioned conventional techniques issue a warning to the user, they do not issue any warning from the viewpoint of preventing the spread of infection, and therefore cannot prevent secondary infection via information processing devices.

[0007] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide an information processing device, a control method, and a program that can prevent secondary infection when a second user uses an information processing device after a first user has used it. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to achieve the above object, the invention of claim 1 is an information processing device having a plurality of operation units operable by users, the information processing device comprising: a user detection means for detecting users; an operation detection means for detecting an operation unit operated by the first user among the plurality of operation units when a first user is detected by the user detection means; a storage means for storing operation information that records the operation units detected by the operation detection means; and a notification means for reading the operation information from the storage means and notifying the second user of the operation unit operated by the first user when a second user is detected by the user detection means. The plurality of operation units include a door that can be opened and closed relative to the device body, and the operation detection means includes a door opening / closing detection sensor that detects whether the door is opened or closed. The configuration is characterized by the above.

[0009] The invention of claim 2 is an information processing device of claim 1, further comprising a display means for displaying various information, and the notification means displays the operation unit operated by the first user on the display means.

[0010] The invention according to claim 3 is An information processing device having a plurality of operation units operable by users, the information processing device comprising: a user detection means for detecting users; an operation detection means for detecting an operation unit operated by the first user among the plurality of operation units when a first user is detected by the user detection means; a storage means for storing operation information that records the operation units detected by the operation detection means; a notification means for reading the operation information from the storage means when a second user is detected by the user detection means, and notifying the second user of the operation unit operated by the first user; and a display means for displaying various information; The notification means is configured to display the remaining time until the predetermined period has elapsed on the display means when the second user is detected by the user detection means after the operation by the first user has ended and before the predetermined period has elapsed.

[0011] The invention of claim 4 is an information processing device of claim 2 or 3, wherein when the second user is detected by the user detection means before a predetermined period of time has elapsed after the first user has completed the operation, the notification means displays a warning on the display means to advise the user not to operate the operation unit operated by the first user until the predetermined period of time has elapsed.

[0012] The invention of claim 5 is an information processing device of any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that when the second user is detected by the user detection means before a predetermined period of time has elapsed after the first user has completed operation, the notification means displays a message on the display means instructing the first user to disinfect the operation unit operated by the first user before operating it.

[0013] The invention of claim 6 is an information processing device of any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the notification means is configured to display on the display means a guide message to operate an operation unit different from the operation unit operated by the first user when the second user is detected by the user detection means before a predetermined period of time has elapsed after the first user has completed the operation.

[0014] The invention of claim 7 is an information processing device according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that the notification means terminates the display of the operation section operated by the first user on the display means based on an operation by the second user.

[0015] The invention of claim 8 is an information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the notification means does not notify the second user of the operation unit operated by the first user when the second user detected by the user detection means is the same user as the first user.

[0016] The invention according to claim 9 is an information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the notification means, when the second user detected by the user detection means is the same user as the first user, notifies the user of an operation unit operated by the first user. Other than Operate the control panel. It is recommended not to guidance to the display means The configuration is characterized by displaying the information.

[0017] The invention of claim 10 is characterized in that, in the information processing device of claim 8 or 9, the user detection means includes an authentication means for authenticating a user, and the notification means determines whether the second user is the same user as the first user based on the authentication result by the authentication means.

[0018] The invention of claim 11 is an information processing device according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that the notification means determines that the second user is the same user as the first user when the interval between operations on at least one of the plurality of operation units is within a predetermined time.

[0019] The invention of claim 12 is an information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising a human detection sensor that detects a person present within a predetermined distance from the information processing device, and the user detection means detects the user according to the detection result of the human detection sensor.

[0020] The invention of claim 13 is an information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the multiple operation units include a paper feed tray that can be opened and closed relative to the device main body, and the operation detection means includes a tray open / close detection sensor that detects when the paper feed tray is opened or closed.

[0021] The invention of claim 14 is an information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the plurality of operation units include a document placement unit on which a document is placed, and the operation detection means includes a document detection sensor that detects that a document has been placed on the document placement unit.

[0022] The invention of claim 15 is an information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the plurality of operation units include a paper output tray for outputting sheets on which images are printed, and the operation detection means includes a sheet detection sensor for detecting the presence or absence of the sheets in the paper output tray.

[0024] Claim 16 The invention according to the present invention is as follows: 15 In any of the information processing devices, the plurality of operation units include an operation panel on which a user performs various setting operations, and the operation detection means includes a touch operation detection sensor that detects a touch operation by the user on the operation panel.

[0025] Claim 17 The invention according to the present invention is as follows: 16In any of the information processing devices described above, the information processing device further includes an image acquisition means that is connected to an imaging means that captures an image that includes the information processing device within a shooting range and acquires the image captured by the imaging means, and the operation detection means is configured to detect the operation unit operated by the first user by analyzing the image acquired by the image acquisition means.

[0026] Claim 18 The present invention relates to a control method for an information processing device having a plurality of operation units operable by users, the method comprising: a user detection step of detecting a user; an operation detection step of detecting an operation unit operated by the first user among the plurality of operation units when a first user is detected by the user detection step; a storage step of storing operation information recording the operation units detected by the operation detection step in a predetermined storage means; and a notification step of reading the operation information from the storage means and notifying the second user of the operation unit operated by the first user when a second user is detected by the user detection step. 、 The plurality of operation units include a door that can be opened and closed relative to the device body, and the operation detection step includes a door opening / closing detection step of detecting that the door is opened or closed. The configuration is characterized by the above. The invention of claim 19 is a control method for an information processing device having a plurality of operation units that can be operated by users, comprising: a user detection step for detecting users; an operation detection step for detecting an operation unit operated by the first user among the plurality of operation units when a first user is detected by the user detection step; a storage step for storing operation information recording the operation units detected by the operation detection step in a predetermined storage means; and a notification step for reading the operation information from the storage means and displaying the operation unit operated by the first user on a display means to notify the second user when a second user is detected by the user detection step after the operation by the first user has ended but before a predetermined period has elapsed, wherein the notification step displays the remaining time until the predetermined period has elapsed on the display means.

[0027] The invention of claim 20 is a program executed in an information processing device having a plurality of operation units operable by users, the program causing the information processing device to execute a user detection step of detecting a user, an operation detection step of detecting an operation unit operated by the first user among the plurality of operation units when a first user is detected by the user detection step, a storage step of storing operation information recording the operation units detected by the operation detection step in a predetermined storage means, and a notification step of reading the operation information from the storage means and notifying the second user of the operation unit operated by the first user when a second user is detected by the user detection step. The program, wherein the plurality of operation units include a door that can be opened and closed relative to the device body, and the operation detection step includes a door opening / closing detection step of detecting that the door is opened or closed. A program characterized by: The invention of claim 21 is a program executed in an information processing device having a plurality of operation units that can be operated by users, characterized in that the information processing device is configured to execute the following steps: a user detection step of detecting a user; an operation detection step of detecting an operation unit operated by the first user among the plurality of operation units when a first user is detected by the user detection step; a storage step of storing operation information recording the operation unit detected by the operation detection step in a predetermined storage means; a notification step of reading the operation information from the storage means when a second user is detected by the user detection step and displaying the operation unit operated by the first user on a display means to notify the second user; and a step of displaying the remaining time until the predetermined period has elapsed on the display means when the second user is detected by the user detection step after the operation by the first user has ended but before a predetermined period has elapsed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0028] According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent secondary infection caused by a second user using an information processing device after a first user has used the device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0029] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the overall configuration of an information processing device; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an outline of the operation of the information processing device. [Figure 3] 1 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration and a functional configuration of an information processing device; [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation information. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display unit. [Figure 6] 10A to 10C are diagrams showing examples of screens in different display modes. [Figure 7] 10A to 10C are diagrams showing examples of screens in different display modes. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen that provides guidance on how to operate an operation unit different from the operation unit operated by the first user. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen that provides guidance on how to operate the same operation unit as the operation unit operated by the first user. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen that guides a second user to disinfect before operating the device. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure performed in an information processing device. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure performed in an information processing device. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of an information processing device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example in which a terminal device is connected to an information processing device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Elements common to the embodiments described below are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant description thereof will be omitted.

[0031] (First embodiment) First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the overall configuration of an information processing device 1 in this embodiment. This information processing device 1 is configured by an image processing device such as an MFP installed in an office, for example, and executes scan jobs, copy jobs, print jobs, etc. based on instructions from a user. This type of information processing device 1 is a device that is shared and used by multiple users working in an office.

[0032] The information processing device 1 has a printer unit 2 at the bottom of the device main body 1a. When a copy job, print job, or the like is executed in the information processing device 1, the printer unit 2 forms an image on a sheet such as printing paper and outputs the sheet with the image formed on it onto a paper output tray 13 provided on the top surface of the printer unit 2. The printer unit 2 includes an image forming unit 10 that forms an image on a sheet and multiple paper feed trays 11 that feed sheets to the image forming unit 10. For example, the image forming unit 10 is configured to form an image on a sheet using an electrophotographic method, and forms an image by transferring a toner image onto the sheet and fixing it. Each paper feed tray 11 can hold multiple sheets. The information processing device 1 feeds a sheet stored in a paper feed tray 11 selected by the user from the multiple paper feed trays 11, transports the sheet along a predetermined transport path provided inside the device main body 1a, and then forms an image on the sheet in the image forming unit 10 and outputs the sheet onto the paper output tray 13.

[0033] Each of the multiple paper feed trays 11 can be opened and closed relative to the device main body 1a. For example, when the sheets stored in each paper feed tray 11 become empty, the user can refill the tray with sheets by pulling the paper feed tray 11 out toward the front and opening it. Therefore, each of the multiple paper feed trays 11 is one of the operation units 8 that the user can operate by directly touching it with their hands.

[0034] Furthermore, a front door 12 that can be opened and closed relative to the apparatus main body 1a is provided on the front side of the image forming unit 10. For example, when a toner bottle attached to the image forming unit 10 becomes empty, the user can replace the toner bottle with a new one by opening the front door 12. Therefore, the front door 12 is also one of the operation units 8 that the user can operate by directly touching it with their hands. The front door 12 can be opened by pulling forward either of its left or right ends, and each of the left and right ends can also be managed as an operation unit 8 that the user can operate.

[0035] A side door 14 that can be opened and closed relative to the device main body 1a is provided on the side of the printer unit 2. For example, if a jam occurs during sheet transport, the user can remove the jammed sheet by opening the side door 14. Therefore, the side door 14 is also one of the operation units 8 that the user can operate by directly touching it with their hands.

[0036] The side door 14 is provided with a manual feed tray 15 that can be opened and closed relative to the device main body 1a. The manual feed tray 15 is a tray that is separate from the paper feed tray 11 and allows the user to manually load a desired sheet. For example, when performing a copy job or a print job using the manual feed tray 15, the user can load a desired sheet onto the manual feed tray 15 by opening the manual feed tray 15. Therefore, the manual feed tray 15 is also one of the operation units 8 that the user can operate by directly touching it with their hands.

[0037] The information processing device 1 also includes a scanner unit 3 and an automatic document feeder (ADF) 4 on top of the device main body 1a. The scanner unit 3 optically reads an image of a document set by a user and generates image data. The automatic document feeder 4 is disposed on the upper side of the scanner unit 3 and includes a document placement unit 16 on which documents are placed. The automatic document feeder 4 then picks up documents placed on the document placement unit 16 one by one and, in conjunction with the reading operation of the scanner unit 3, automatically transports the documents to a predetermined reading position by the scanner unit 3.

[0038] The automatic document feeder 4 is equipped with an opening / closing door 17 that opens and closes the document feed path. For example, if a jam occurs during document feed, the user can remove the document that is causing the jam by opening the opening / closing door 17. Therefore, the opening / closing door 17 is one of the operation units 8 that the user can operate by directly touching it with their hands. The document placement unit 16 is also one of the operation units 8 that the user can operate by directly touching it with their hands.

[0039] Furthermore, the automatic document feeder 4 can rotate around a horizontal axis provided on the rear side of the device main body 1a, allowing the top side of the scanner unit 3 to be opened and closed. For example, a user can manually place a document on the platen glass provided on the top side of the scanner unit 3 by lifting the automatic document feeder 4. Therefore, the automatic document feeder 4 is also one of the operation units 8 that the user can operate by directly touching it with their hands.

[0040] The information processing device 1 also has an operation panel 5 serving as a user interface on the front side of the device body 1a. The operation panel 5 is configured with a color liquid crystal display or the like and has a display unit 9 that displays various operation screens to the user. The operation panel 5 also has a touch panel function that detects user operations on the display unit 9. For example, a user who intends to execute a scan job or a copy job using the information processing device 1 can perform various job setting operations by operating the operation panel 5. Therefore, the operation panel 5 is one of the operation units 8 that the user can operate by directly touching it with their hands.

[0041] The information processing device 1 also includes a card reader 6 and a human detection sensor 7, which are provided near the operation panel 5 (below the operation panel 5 in FIG. 1). The card reader 6 is a device that contactlessly reads card information, on which user information and the like is recorded, from, for example, an IC card carried by a user. The human detection sensor 7 is configured as a so-called human presence sensor, and detects people present within a predetermined distance from the information processing device 1 without contact.

[0042] As described above, the information processing device 1 includes multiple operation units 8 that users can operate by directly touching them with their hands. In order to prevent secondary infection of infectious diseases caused by pathogens such as COVID-19 from occurring through such an information processing device 1, when a first user uses the information processing device 1 and then a second user uses it, it is necessary to notify the second user of the operation units 8 that the first user touched and operated, and to warn the second user not to touch the operation units 8 that the first user touched. Therefore, the information processing device 1 operates as follows.

[0043] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an overview of the operation of the information processing device 1. As shown in FIG. 2(a), first, user A, a first user, uses the information processing device 1. At this time, the information processing device 1 detects the operation unit 8 operated by user A from among the multiple operation units 8 and stores information about that operation unit 8. Then, as shown in FIG. 2(b), after user A finishes using the information processing device 1 and leaves the information processing device 1, user B, a second user, approaches the information processing device 1 to use it. At this time, the information processing device 1 reads information about the operation unit 8 operated by user A before user B touches the information processing device 1 and notifies user B of the operation unit 8 operated by user A. This allows user B to know which operation unit 8 user A touched first and can use the information processing device 1 while avoiding touching the operation unit 8 touched by user A. User B can also decide to use a different information processing device 1 from the one used by user A. This makes it possible to prevent secondary infections caused by pathogens. The following describes the details of this information processing device 1.

[0044] Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration and functional configuration of the information processing device 1. As shown in Fig. 3, the information processing device 1 includes a sensor group 20 that detects that each of the multiple operation units 8 has been operated by a user, and a control unit 30.

[0045] The sensor group 20 includes a touch operation detection sensor 21, a tray open / close detection sensor 22, a door open / close detection sensor 23, a sheet detection sensor 24, a door open / close detection sensor 25, a tray open / close detection sensor 26, and a document detection sensor 27. The touch operation detection sensor 21 detects a user's touch operation on the operation panel 5. The tray open / close detection sensor 22 detects whether the paper feed tray 11 is open or closed, and can individually detect whether each of the multiple paper feed trays 11 is open or closed. The door open / close detection sensor 23 detects whether the front door 12 is open or closed. This door open / close detection sensor 23 may also be a sensor that can detect which of the left and right ends of the front door 12 is operated by the user. The sheet detection sensor 24 detects a sheet discharged onto the paper output tray 13. The door open / close detection sensor 25 detects whether the side door 14 is open or closed. The tray open / close detection sensor 26 detects whether the manual feed tray 15 is open or closed. The plurality of sensors provided in the sensor group 20 detects the operation unit 8 operated by the user. In addition to this, for example, the sensor group 20 may also include a sensor that detects that the automatic document feeder 4 has been opened or closed relative to the scanner unit 3.

[0046] The control unit 30 includes a CPU 31 and a storage unit 32, and controls the operation of each unit implemented in the information processing device 1. The CPU 31 is a hardware processor that reads and executes a program 33 stored in the storage unit 32. The storage unit 32 is a non-volatile storage device configured, for example, by a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD). In addition to the program 33 executed by the CPU 31, the storage unit 32 also stores operation information 34. The operation information 34 is information that records information related to the operation unit 8 operated by the user.

[0047] By executing the program 33, the CPU 31 functions as a user detection unit 40, an operation reception unit 42, a job control unit 43, an operation detection unit 44, and a notification unit 46.

[0048] The user detection unit 40 is a processing unit that detects a user who uses the information processing device 1. The human detection sensor 7 is connected to the user detection unit 40. Therefore, the user detection unit 40 detects a user when a person is detected by the human detection sensor 7. However, when the user detection unit 40 detects a user as a result of the human detection sensor 7 detecting a person, it is not possible to identify who the user is.

[0049] Furthermore, a card reader 6 is connected to the user detection unit 40. Therefore, the user detection unit 40 acquires card information read by the card reader 6. When an IC card held by a user is placed within a range where the card information can be read, the card reader 6 reads the card information from the IC card and outputs it to the CPU 31. The user detection unit 40 acquires the card information.

[0050] The user detection unit 40 includes an authentication unit 41. The authentication unit 41 performs user authentication based on the card information acquired from the card reader 6, and identifies the user who is attempting to use the information processing device 1. For example, when performing user authentication, the authentication unit 41 extracts user information contained in the card information and transmits the user information to an external authentication server. The authentication unit 41 then identifies the user based on the authentication result obtained from the authentication server. When the authentication unit 41 is able to identify the user through user authentication, it designates the identified user as a logged-in user and transitions the information processing device 1 to a logged-in state. This allows the logged-in user to use the information processing device 1.

[0051] As described above, the card reader 6 is capable of reading card information without contact, so the user can transition the information processing device 1 from a logged-out state to a logged-in state without touching the information processing device 1.

[0052] The operation reception unit 42 receives user operations such as job setting operations based on the user's touch operations detected by the touch operation detection sensor 21. For example, when the information processing device 1 is in a logged-in state, the operation reception unit 42 receives operations from the logged-in user, such as job setting operations and execution instructions.

[0053] The job control unit 43 controls the execution of jobs such as scan jobs and copy jobs in the information processing device 1. For example, when the operation reception unit 42 receives an instruction to execute a job from a user, the job control unit 43 controls the execution of the job specified by the user by operating the scanner unit 3 and the printer unit 2. Furthermore, when the job control unit 43 detects the occurrence of a jam, an empty sheet, an empty toner, or the like during or at the end of the job, it notifies the notification unit 46 of the occurrence.

[0054] The operation detection unit 44 detects an operation when a logged-in user or a user not logged in to the information processing device 1 touches any of the operation units 8 of the information processing device 1. For example, when a user touches the operation panel 5, the operation detection unit 44 detects that the user has touched the operation panel 5 based on the detection result of the touch operation detection sensor 21. When a user performs an operation to refill the paper feed tray 11 with sheets, the operation detection unit 44 detects that the user has opened or closed the paper feed tray 11 based on the detection result of the tray open / close detection sensor 22. When a user opens or closes the front door 12 or the side door 14, the operation detection unit 44 detects that the user has touched the front door 12 or the side door 14 based on the detection result of the door open / close detection sensors 23 and 25. When a user operates the paper output tray 13, the manual feed tray 15, or the document placement unit 16, the operation detection unit 44 can also detect the operation unit 8 operated by the user based on the information output from the sensor group 20.

[0055] The operation detection unit 44 includes an operation recording unit 45. The operation recording unit 45 records user operations detected by the operation detection unit 44 in operation information 34. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the operation information 34. As shown in FIG. 4, the operation information 34 includes information 34a about the user who performed the operation, information 34b about the operation unit 8 operated by the user, information 34c about the date and time of the user's operation, and information 34d indicating whether or not the operation is to be subject to a warning.

[0056] The user-related information 34a records information (such as name and user ID) that can identify the user who operated the operation unit 8. For example, when a logged-in user is identified by the user detection unit 40, the user-related information 34a records information that can identify the logged-in user. However, when the user detection unit 40 detects a user based on the detection result of the human detection sensor 7, it is not possible to identify the user who is present around the information processing device 1. If the operation detection unit 44 detects a user operation in this state, the operation recording unit 45 cannot obtain information that can identify the user, and therefore records in the field of the user-related information 34a that the user is an unspecified user.

[0057] Information 34b relating to the operation unit 8 records information that can identify the operation unit 8 operated by the user. Therefore, by referring to information 34b relating to the operation unit 8, it is possible to identify the operation unit 8 operated by the user.

[0058] The information 34c relating to operation date and time records the date and time when the user operates the operation unit 8. Therefore, by referring to the information 34c relating to operation date and time, it is possible to identify the elapsed time from when the user operated the operation unit 8 to the current time.

[0059] Furthermore, when recording a user's operation in the operation information 34, the operation recording unit 45 records "YES" as information 34d indicating whether or not the operation is to be subject to a warning. "YES" indicates that when another user subsequently uses the information processing device 1, the operation unit 8 operated by the previous user needs to be notified. Note that if the information 34d indicating whether or not the operation is to be subject to a warning is rewritten to "NO," the operation information does not need to be notified to the user.

[0060] Every time the operation detection unit 44 detects an operation on any of the operation units 8, the operation recording unit 45 records information about the operation in the operation information 34. Therefore, information indicating that an operation has been performed on the operation unit 8 by the user is accumulated and recorded in the operation information 34.

[0061] Incidentally, pathogens such as viruses and bacteria may die after a certain period of time even if they are attached to the operation unit 8. However, the period required for the pathogens to die varies depending on the type of pathogen, the material of the operation unit 8, and the like. Therefore, the administrator of the information processing device 1 may specify in advance the period required for the pathogens to die for each of the multiple operation units 8. In this case, if a predetermined period specified in advance by the administrator has elapsed since the date and time of operation of the operation unit 8 recorded in the operation information 34, the operation recording unit 45 can automatically delete the information from the operation information 34. In other words, if the pathogens attached to the operation unit 8 have died, the information about the operation unit 8 is automatically deleted from the operation information 34, which prevents unnecessary notifications from being sent to users who subsequently attempt to use the information processing device 1.

[0062] Furthermore, even if pathogens are attached to the operation unit 8, the pathogens can be killed by disinfecting the operation unit 8 with alcohol or the like. When the user disinfects the operation unit 8, the operation recording unit 45 may automatically delete information about the operation unit 8 from the operation information 34. Even in this case, it is possible to prevent unnecessary notifications from being sent to users who subsequently attempt to use the information processing device 1.

[0063] Note that the operation recording unit 45 may rewrite the information 34d indicating whether or not to issue a warning to "NO" instead of deleting the information about the operation unit 8 recorded in the operation information 34. However, in this case, the old information will remain recorded in the operation information 34. To prevent this, it is preferable to delete the information about the operation unit 8 from the operation information 34, as described above.

[0064] Returning to FIG. 3 , the notification unit 46 operates when a user is detected by the user detection unit 40 and performs processing to notify the second user of the operation unit 8 operated by the previous user before the first user touched the information processing device 1. In other words, when a second user attempts to use the information processing device 1 after a first user has used the information processing device 1, the notification unit 46 notifies the second user of the operation unit 8 operated by the first user. More specifically, when the user detection unit 40 detects the second user after the first user has finished using the information processing device 1, the notification unit 46 references the operation information 34 and notifies the second user of the operation unit 8 operated by the first user based on the operation information 34. For example, the notification unit 46 notifies the second user by displaying a notification screen on the display unit 9 of the operation panel 5. However, this is not limited thereto. For example, the notification unit 46 may notify the second user by outputting audio or the like. Note that in this embodiment, an example of displaying a notification screen on the display unit 9 will be described.

[0065] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen displayed on the display unit 9. For example, if the user detection unit 40 detects a second user before a predetermined period of time designated by an administrator has elapsed after a first user has completed an operation, the notification unit 46 displays a screen G2 as shown in FIG. 5 on the display unit 9. This screen G2 is displayed as a pop-up on, for example, the job setting screen G1 displayed on the display unit 9 of the information processing device 1. The screen G2 displayed on the display unit 9 by the notification unit 46 is a screen that notifies the second user of the operation unit 8 operated by the first user, thereby warning the second user not to operate the same operation unit 8. For example, the screen G2 includes an image 51 representing the information processing device 1. When displaying the screen G2, the notification unit 46 superimposes a pointer image 52 indicating the operation unit 8 operated by the first user on the image 51. 5 shows an example in which the period designated in advance by the administrator is 60 minutes, and the areas operated by the first user within 60 minutes and the areas operated within 15 minutes are indicated by different pointer images 52. These pointer images 52 clearly indicate to the second user the areas where operation is prohibited.

[0066] Therefore, a second user who approaches the information processing device 1 to use it can visually check the screen G2 displayed on the display unit 9 and recognize that the operation unit 8, which the first user previously touched and operated with his or her hand, is a prohibited area. As a result, the second user can operate the operation unit 8 that the first user has not touched. This makes it possible to prevent the second user from becoming infected with a pathogen by operating the information processing device 1, even if the first user is infected with the pathogen.

[0067] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 5, by displaying different pointer images 52 when the time elapsed since the first user performed an operation is different, the second user can estimate the survival rate of pathogens in each operation unit 8, and can be particularly careful not to operate the operation unit 8 that has been operated by the first user for a short time.

[0068] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen display mode different from that illustrated in FIG. 5. For example, if the user detection unit 40 detects a second user after a first user has finished operating the information processing device 1 and before a predetermined period designated by an administrator has elapsed, the notification unit 46 may display a screen G2 as illustrated in FIG. 6 on the display unit 9. Similar to FIG. 5, the screen G2 illustrated in FIG. 6 includes an image 51 representing the information processing device 1, and a pointer image 52 indicating the operation unit 8 operated by the first user is superimposed on the image 51. Furthermore, the pointer image 52 displayed on the screen G2 illustrated in FIG. 6 indicates the remaining time until pathogens adhering to the operation unit 8 operated by the first user are eliminated and the second user can operate the operation unit 8. Therefore, by viewing the screen G2 illustrated in FIG. 6, the second user can grasp the time required until the operation unit 8 operated by the first user becomes operable. Even the screen G2 illustrated in FIG. 6 can prevent secondary infections caused by the second user operating the information processing device 1.

[0069] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen having a different display mode from those illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6 . When the user detection unit 40 detects a second user after a first user has completed an operation and before a predetermined period designated by an administrator has elapsed, the notification unit 46 may display a screen G2 as illustrated in FIG. 7 on the display unit 9. The screen G2 illustrated in FIG. 7 includes an image 51 representing the information processing device 1, similar to those illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6 . A pointer image 52 indicating the operation unit 8 operated by the first user is superimposed on the image 51. The pointer image 52 displayed on the screen G2 illustrated in FIG. 7 indicates the remaining time until pathogens adhering to the operation unit 8 operated by the first user are eliminated and the second user can operate the operation unit 8. Furthermore, the screen G2 illustrated in FIG. 7 displays an operation button 53 that can be operated by the second user. For example, the operation button 53 is operated when the second user confirms the operation unit 8 operated by the first user.

[0070] When the second user operates the operation button 53, the notification unit 46 switches the screen G2 displayed on the display unit 9 to hidden. In other words, the display of the operation unit 8 operated by the first user is terminated. As a result, the job setting screen G1 is displayed on the display unit 9. Therefore, the second user can perform job setting operations by operating the operation panel 5. However, in this case, the second user may touch the same operation unit 8 that the first user touched. Therefore, if the second user operates the operation button 53 to use the information processing device 1 after checking the screen G2 of FIG. 7, the second user needs to prevent secondary infection by, for example, thoroughly washing their hands after using the information processing device 1.

[0071] If operations by a second user are completely prohibited when a predetermined period of time has not passed since use by a first user, the second user may not be able to use the information processing device 1, which may reduce convenience. Therefore, by displaying screen G2 as shown in Fig. 7 and terminating the display of screen G2 and accepting operations by the second user when the second user operates operation button 53, it is possible to prevent the convenience of the information processing device 1 from being reduced.

[0072] Furthermore, when the authentication unit 41 of the user detection unit 40 identifies the second user as a logged-in user, the notification unit 46 can identify the second user. On the other hand, if the first user is logged in to the information processing device 1 when using the information processing device 1, information 34a about the first user is recorded in the operation information 34. In this case, the notification unit 46 can also identify the first user. Therefore, when the second user is identified as a logged-in user, the notification unit 46 determines whether the second user is the same user as the first user. As a result, if the second user is a different user from the first user, the notification unit 46 guides the second user to perform an operation without touching the operation unit 8 operated by the first user.

[0073] FIG. 8 illustrates an example screen that guides the second user to operate an operation unit 8 different from the operation unit 8 operated by the first user. For example, when a second user logs in to the information processing device 1 and the job control unit 43 detects that the toner is empty, the notification unit 46 displays a screen G3 on the display unit 9, as shown in FIG. 8, that prompts the second user to replace the toner bottle. That is, the screen G3 guides the second user to open the front door 12 and replace the toner bottle. At this time, the notification unit 46 reads the operation information 34, and if the first user previously operated to open the front door 12, the notification unit 46 guides the second user to open the front door 12 by operating a location different from the location touched by the first user. Similar to the above-described screen G2, the screen G3 illustrated in FIG. 8 includes an image 51 representing the information processing device 1. A pointer image 52 indicating the operation unit 8 operated by the first user is superimposed on the image 51, and a pointer image 54 indicating an operation unit 8 not operated by the first user as a recommended operation location is superimposed on the image 51. To display such a message, it is necessary to mount a sensor capable of identifying the location of a user's operation as the door open / close detection sensor 23. By displaying screen G3 shown in FIG. 8, the second user can replace the toner bottle by operating a recommended operation location that is different from the location touched by the first user. Therefore, even if the first user is infected with a pathogen, it is possible to prevent the second user from becoming infected.

[0074] On the other hand, if the second user is the same user as the first user, the notification unit 46 may be configured not to notify the second user of the operation unit 8 operated by the first user. However, if the second user (first user) is infected with a pathogen and operates an operation unit 8 different from the operation unit 8 operated last time, the number of operation units 8 contaminated with pathogens in the information processing device 1 will increase, and there is a possibility that the number of operation units 8 that other users will not touch will increase.

[0075] Therefore, when the second user is the same user as the first user, it is preferable that the notification unit 46 guides the second user to the same operation unit 8 operated by the first user as the recommended operation area. This allows the second user (first user) to perform an operation without spreading the infection area, even if the second user (first user) is infected with a pathogen.

[0076] FIG. 9 illustrates an example screen that guides the user to operate the same operation unit 8 as the first user. For example, when the same user as the first user logs in to the information processing device 1 as a second user and detects that the toner bottle is empty, the notification unit 46 displays a screen G3 on the display unit 9, as shown in FIG. 9, that prompts the user to replace the toner bottle. At this time, the notification unit 46 reads the operation information 34, and if the first user previously opened the front door 12, the notification unit 46 guides the user to open the front door 12 by operating the same location as the first user. Similar to the above-described screen G2, the screen G3 illustrated in FIG. 9 includes an image 51 representing the information processing device 1. A pointer image 52 indicating the operation unit 8 operated by the first user is superimposed on the image 51. The pointer image 52 displays the operation unit 8 operated by the first user as a recommended operation location. Displaying the screen G3 illustrated in FIG. 9 allows the second user to replace the toner bottle by operating the same location as the first user. Therefore, the second user can perform operations without increasing the number of operation units 8 on which pathogens may be attached in the information processing device 1.

[0077] Furthermore, when notifying the second user of the operation unit 8 operated by the first user, the notification unit 46 may guide the second user to disinfect the operation unit 8 operated by the first user before operating it. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen guiding the second user to disinfect the operation unit 8 before operating it. For example, when the user detection unit 40 detects a second user, the notification unit 46 may display a screen G2 as shown in FIG. 10 on the display unit 9. The screen G2 shown in FIG. 10 includes an image 51 representing the information processing device 1, and a pointer image 52 indicating the operation unit 8 operated by the first user is superimposed on the image 51. The screen G2 shown in FIG. 10 also includes a message guiding the second user to disinfect the operation unit 8 operated by the first user before operating it. Therefore, the second user can understand that the operation unit 8 indicated by the pointer image 52 needs to be disinfected, and will disinfect it before using the information processing device 1.

[0078] Screen G3 shown in FIG. 10 displays operation button 55, which is operated by the second user after completing the disinfection work. Therefore, the second user operates operation button 55 when the disinfection work is completed. When operation button 55 is operated by the second user, notification unit 46 recognizes that the disinfection work is completed and hides screen G2 displayed on display unit 9. In other words, the display of operation unit 8 operated by the first user is terminated. As a result, job setting screen G1 is displayed on display unit 9. Therefore, the second user can perform job setting operations by operating operation panel 5. By guiding the second user to disinfect operation unit 8 in this way, it is possible to prevent the second user from becoming infected with pathogens.

[0079] Furthermore, when the second user performs the disinfection work, the notification unit 46 notifies the operation recording unit 45 of the operation unit 8 that has been disinfected. As a result, the operation recording unit 45 can update the operation information 34 by deleting information about the disinfected operation unit 8 from the operation information 34 or by rewriting information 34d corresponding to the disinfected operation unit 8 to "NO." By updating the operation information 34 in this way upon completion of the disinfection work, a notification is not issued when the first user operates the operation unit 8. However, if the second user newly operates the operation unit 8 after the disinfection work is performed, information about the second user's operation is recorded in the operation information 34. Therefore, when a third user uses the information processing device 1 after the second user has finished using the device, the operation unit 8 operated by the second user is notified.

[0080] Next, the operation of the information processing device 1 will be described. Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure performed in the information processing device 1. The processing procedure shown in Fig. 11 indicates a processing procedure performed when a user uses the information processing device 1, and is a processing procedure performed by, for example, the CPU 31 of the control unit 30 executing the program 33. Moreover, the processing procedure shown in Fig. 11 is a processing procedure repeatedly executed in the information processing device 1.

[0081] When the information processing device 1 starts this process, it performs a user detection process (step S10). When the information processing device 1 starts the user detection process (step S10), it first determines whether the human detection sensor 7 has detected a person (step S11). If the human detection sensor 7 does not detect a person (NO in step S11), the information processing device 1 does not detect a user. In this case, the processing by the information processing device 1 ends. On the other hand, if the human detection sensor 7 detects a person (YES in step S11), it means that a person is present around the information processing device 1, and the information processing device 1 detects that person as a user (second user) of the information processing device 1.

[0082] When the human detection sensor 7 detects a user (YES in step S11), the information processing device 1 determines whether or not card information has been acquired via the card reader 6 (step S12). If card information has not been acquired (NO in step S12), the processing by the information processing device 1 proceeds to step S13.

[0083] In step S13, the information processing device 1 performs a process of notifying a user (second user) in the vicinity of the information processing device 1 of the operation unit 8 operated by a user (first user) who previously used the information processing device 1. That is, the information processing device 1 reads the operation information 34 (step S13) and determines whether information regarding the operation of the user (first user) who previously used the information processing device 1 is recorded in the operation information 34 (step S14). If information regarding the operation of the user who previously used the information processing device 1 is recorded in the operation information 34 (YES in step S14), the information processing device 1 displays on the display unit 9 a screen G2 that displays the operation unit 8 operated by the user who previously used the information processing device 1 as an operation prohibited area, based on the operation information 34 (step S15). This allows a second user who is attempting to operate the information processing device 1 to be notified of the operation unit 8 operated by the user (first user) who previously used the information processing device 1, without logging in to the information processing device 1. On the other hand, if information about the operation of the user who previously used the information processing device 1 is not recorded in the operation information 34 (NO in step S14), the information processing device 1 does not display the screen G2 that displays the operation prohibited area.

[0084] Next, the information processing device 1 determines whether or not an operation by a second user who is not logged in to the information processing device 1 has been detected (step S16). If an operation by the second user has been detected (YES in step S16), the information processing device 1 records information about the operation in the operation information 34 and updates the operation information 34 (step S17). At this time, the information processing device 1 identifies the operation unit 8 operated by the second user, and records information about the operation unit 8, information about the date and time of the operation performed by the second user, and information indicating that the operation is subject to a warning in the operation information 34. However, because the second user has not been identified, no information that can identify the user is recorded in the operation information 34. Note that if an operation by the second user has not been detected (NO in step S16), the information processing device 1 does not update the operation information 34.

[0085] Thereafter, if the state in which the user is detected by the human detection sensor 7 continues (NO in step S18), the information processing device 1 repeatedly executes the processes of steps S16 to S17. Therefore, even if the second user is not logged in to the information processing device 1, if the second user repeatedly performs operations on the information processing device 1, information about those operations is recorded in the operation information 34. Then, when the user is no longer detected by the human detection sensor 7 (YES in step S18), the information processing device 1 ends the process.

[0086] On the other hand, after detecting a user with the human detection sensor 7 (YES in step S11), if card information is acquired via the card reader 6 (YES in step S12), the information processing device 1 performs user authentication to authenticate the second user based on the user information included in the card information (step S19), and identifies the second user who is attempting to use the information processing device 1 (step S20).Then, the information processing device 1 performs login processing with the identified second user as the login user, and transitions the information processing device 1 to a login state (step S21).

[0087] Next, the information processing device 1 reads out operation information from the storage unit 32 (step S22) and determines whether information regarding the operation of a user (first user) who previously used the information processing device 1 is recorded in the operation information 34 (step S23). If information regarding the operation of the first user who previously used the information processing device 1 is recorded in the operation information 34 (YES in step S23), the information processing device 1 performs a notification process to notify the second user of the operation unit 8 operated by the first user (step S24). Note that if information regarding the operation of the first user who previously used the information processing device 1 is not recorded in the operation information 34 (NO in step S23), the notification process (step S24) is not performed, and the process by the information processing device 1 proceeds to step S28.

[0088] When the information processing device 1 starts the notification process (step S24), it first determines whether the second user is the same user as the first user (step S25). If the second user is the same user as the first user (YES in step S25), the information processing device 1 displays a screen displaying the operation unit 8 operated by the first user as a recommended operation area, as shown in FIG. 9, for example (step S26). This allows the second user to know which operation unit 8 they operated first, and can prevent an increase in the number of operation units 8 to which pathogens may be attached by operating the same operation unit 8. Furthermore, if the second user is not the same user as the first user (NO in step S25), the information processing device 1 displays a screen displaying the operation unit 8 operated by the first user as a prohibited operation area, as shown in FIGS. 5 to 8, for example (step S27). At this time, the information processing device 1 may display an operation unit 8 not operated by the first user as a recommended operation area, as shown in FIG. 8. This allows the second user to perform an operation without touching the operation unit 8 that was previously operated by the first user, thereby preventing secondary infection via the information processing device 1.

[0089] Next, the information processing device 1 determines whether an operation by the second user has been detected (step S28). If an operation by the second user has been detected (YES in step S28), the information processing device 1 records information about the operation in the operation information 34 and updates the operation information 34 (step S29). At this time, the operation information 34 records information that can identify the second user, information about the operation unit 8 operated by the second user, information about the date and time of the operation performed by the second user, and information indicating that the operation is subject to a warning. Then, the information processing device 1 performs processing according to the operation by the second user (step S30). For example, the information processing device 1 performs processing to reflect the job setting operation performed by the second user or starts execution of the job. Note that if an operation by the second user has not been detected (NO in step S28), the information processing device 1 skips the processing of steps S29 and S30.

[0090] Thereafter, the information processing device 1 determines whether to transition from the login state to the logout state (step S31). For example, the information processing device 1 determines to transition to the logout state when it detects a logout operation by the second user, or when a predetermined time has passed without detecting an operation by the second user. If the information processing device 1 does not transition to the login state (NO in step S31), the processing by the information processing device 1 returns to step S28 and repeats the above-mentioned processing. On the other hand, if the information processing device 1 transitions to the logout state (YES in step S31), the information processing device 1 performs logout processing to transition to the logout state (step S32) and ends the processing.

[0091] Next, an operation of the information processing device 1 to automatically update the operation information 34 will be described. Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure performed in the information processing device 1. The processing procedure shown in Fig. 12 indicates a processing procedure repeatedly performed at regular time intervals in the information processing device 1, and is a processing procedure performed by, for example, the CPU 31 of the control unit 30 executing the program 33.

[0092] When the information processing device 1 starts this process, it reads out the operation information 34 from the storage unit 32 (step S40), and determines whether or not information about the operation of a first user who previously used the information processing device 1 is recorded in the operation information 34 (step S41). If information about the operation of the first user is not recorded (NO in step S41), the process by the information processing device 1 ends.

[0093] If information regarding the operation of the first user is recorded (YES in step S40), the information processing device 1 determines whether there is information regarding the time period designated in advance by the administrator that has elapsed since the operation by the first user (step S42). If the time period has elapsed (YES in step S42), it is assumed that any pathogens attached to the operation unit 8 have died, and the information processing device 1 deletes the information from the operation information 34 (step S43). Note that if there is no information regarding the time period that has elapsed since the operation by the first user (NO in step S42), the processing of step S43 is skipped.

[0094] Next, the information processing device 1 determines whether information about the operation unit 8 disinfected by the second user is recorded in the operation information 34 (step S44). As a result, if information about the operation unit 8 disinfected by the second user is recorded in the operation information 34 (YES in step S44), the information processing device 1 deletes the information from the operation information 34 (step S45). Note that if information about the operation unit 8 disinfected by the second user does not exist (NO in step S44), the processing of step S45 is skipped.

[0095] Then, the information processing device 1 updates the operation information 34 stored in the storage unit 32 (step S46), and ends the process.

[0096] In this way, when the time required for pathogens adhering to the operation unit 8 to die has passed or when the user has disinfected the operation unit 8, the information processing device 1 can delete and update the information recorded in the operation information 34, so that after the update, notification processing is not performed for the user when the user uses the information processing device 1. Therefore, when the user uses the information processing device 1 after the operation information 34 has been updated, the user can perform normal operations on the information processing device 1 without worrying about secondary infection, etc.

[0097] As described above, the information processing device 1 of this embodiment includes a user detection unit 40 that detects users; an operation detection unit 44 that, when a first user is detected by the user detection unit 40, detects the operation unit 8 operated by the first user among the multiple operation units 8; a storage unit 32 that stores operation information 34 recording the operation unit 8 detected by the operation detection unit 44; and a notification unit 46 that, when a second user is detected by the user detection unit 40 after an operation by the first user is performed, reads the operation information 34 from the storage unit 32 and notifies the second user of the operation unit 8 operated by the first user. In particular, the notification unit 46 is configured to notify the second user of the operation unit 8 operated by the first user before the second user performs an operation. This allows the second user to operate the operation unit 8 operated by the first user without directly touching it with their hands, which has the advantage of preventing secondary infection via the information processing device 1.

[0098] (Second embodiment) Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig. 13 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an information processing device 1 in this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 13, the information processing device 1 of this embodiment is connected to an externally installed camera 61. The camera 61 is an imaging means that captures an image that includes the information processing device 1 within its imaging range. The information processing device 1 also includes an image acquisition unit connected to the camera 61, and is capable of acquiring images captured by the camera 61.

[0099] The information processing device 1 configured as described above can detect whether or not a person is present around the information processing device 1 by analyzing an image captured by the camera 61. Therefore, the user detection unit 40 can detect a person present around the information processing device 1 as a user by analyzing an image captured by the camera 61, eliminating the need for the human detection sensor 7 described in the first embodiment. Furthermore, the user detection unit 40 can identify a user present around the information processing device 1 by extracting a facial image of a person captured in an image captured by the camera 61 and performing facial recognition. Therefore, in this embodiment, it is possible to reduce cases in which a notification process is performed for a second user without identifying the second user. In other words, the information processing device 1 has the advantage of being able to appropriately determine whether the second user is the same user as the first user and then appropriately display a prohibited operation area or a recommended operation area.

[0100] Furthermore, the information processing device 1 of this embodiment can identify the operation unit 8 operated by the first user by analyzing the image captured by the camera 61. Therefore, the operation detection unit 44 can be configured to detect the operation unit 8 operated by the first user by analyzing the image captured by the camera 61. Therefore, there is an advantage that it is not necessary to implement many sensors as the sensor group 20, as described in the first embodiment.

[0101] The configuration and operation of this embodiment other than those described above are the same as those described in the first embodiment. Therefore, the information processing device 1 connected to the camera 61 has the same effects as those of the first embodiment.

[0102] (Third embodiment) Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig. 14 is a diagram showing an example in which a terminal device 63 is connected to an information processing device 1. For example, as shown in Fig. 14(a), in this embodiment, the information processing device 1 is connected to a network 62 such as a LAN (Local Area Network), and a terminal device 63 used by a user is connected to the network 62. The terminal device 63 is a personal computer (PC), a tablet terminal, or the like.

[0103] 14(a), when a user uses terminal device 63 to send a print job to information processing device 1, a printer driver is started in terminal device 63. When the printer driver is started in terminal device 63, a setting screen for setting the print job is displayed on the display unit of terminal device 63. At this time, terminal device 63 communicates with information processing device 1, acquires the status of information processing device 1, and displays a setting screen that reflects the status.

[0104] When notifying the printer driver of the terminal device 63 of the status or the like, the information processing device 1 notifies the printer driver of information related to the operation unit 8 operated by the first user based on the operation information 34 stored in the storage unit 32. Then, the information processing device 1 notifies the user who is about to send a print job of the operation unit 8 operated by the first user by causing the printer driver to display the notification screen described in the first embodiment. Therefore, the user can know which operation units 8 cannot be operated on the information processing device 1 before sending the print job.

[0105] 14(b), if multiple information processing devices 1A and 1B are connected to network 62, and the user determines from the displayed notification screen when attempting to send a print job to information processing device 1A that touching information processing device 1A may result in secondary infection, the user can switch the destination of the print job from information processing device 1A to information processing device 1B before sending the print job. This makes it possible to prevent secondary infection of the user.

[0106] The configuration and operation of this embodiment other than those described above are the same as those described in the first embodiment. Therefore, the information processing device 1 that also displays a notification screen in the printer driver achieves the same effects as the first embodiment.

[0107] (Variation) Although several preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible.

[0108] For example, in the first embodiment, an example of card authentication has been described as the authentication method for performing user authentication. However, the authentication method is not limited to card authentication. For example, the authentication method may be voice authentication or biometric authentication.

[0109] In the first embodiment, an example has been described in which it is determined whether the first user and the second user are the same user based on the authentication result of user authentication. However, the determination of whether they are the same user is not limited to this. For example, the information processing device 1 may determine that the second user is the same user as the first user if the interval between operations on at least one operation unit 8 among the multiple operation units 8 is within a predetermined time. In this case, if the interval between operations on at least one operation unit 8 among the multiple operation units 8 exceeds the predetermined time, it is determined that the second user is a different user from the first user.

[0110] Although not specifically mentioned in the above embodiment, it is common for a plurality of operation buttons that can be operated by a user to be displayed on, for example, a job setting screen on the display unit 9 of the operation panel 5. Therefore, the information processing device 1 may employ a configuration in which, of the plurality of operation buttons displayed on the display unit 9, operation buttons operated by a first user and operation buttons not operated by the first user are displayed in a manner that distinguishes them from each other, and the second user is notified of the operation button operated by the first user.

[0111] In the above embodiment, the information processing device 1 is configured as an image processing device such as an MFP. However, the information processing device 1 is not limited to an MFP. For example, the information processing device 1 may be a dedicated scanner or a dedicated printer. In other words, the information processing device 1 may be any device that can be shared and used by multiple users.

[0112] In the above embodiment, the program 33 executed by the CPU 31 of the control unit 30 is pre-stored in the storage unit 32. However, the program 33 is not limited to being pre-stored in the storage unit 32. In other words, the program 33 may be installed in the information processing device 1 after shipping. In this case, the program 33 may be provided in a downloadable form via a network such as the Internet, or may be provided in a state recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM. [Explanation of symbols]

[0113] 1. Information processing equipment 5 Operation panel 7. Human detection sensor 8 Control section 9 Display section (display means) 11 Paper tray 12 Front door 13 Paper output tray 14 Side door 16 Document placement area 21 Touch operation detection sensor 22 Tray open / close detection sensor 23 Door opening / closing detection sensor 24 Sheet detection sensor 25 Door opening / closing detection sensor 27 Document detection sensor 33 Programs 34 Operation information 40 User detection unit (user detection means) 41 Authentication unit (authentication means) 44 Operation detection unit (operation detection means) 45 Operation Recording Section 46 Notification unit (notification means)

Claims

1. An information processing device having a plurality of operation units that can be operated by a user, A user detection means for detecting a user; an operation detection means for detecting an operation unit operated by the first user among the plurality of operation units when a first user is detected by the user detection means; a storage means for storing operation information that records the operation unit detected by the operation detection means; a notification means for reading the operation information from the storage means when a second user is detected by the user detection means, and notifying the second user of the operation unit operated by the first user; Equipped with the plurality of operation units include a door that can be opened and closed relative to the device body, The information processing apparatus is characterized in that the operation detection means includes a door opening / closing detection sensor that detects whether the door is opened or closed.

2. Display means for displaying various information; Further provided with 2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the notification means displays an operation part operated by the first user on the display means.

3. An information processing device having a plurality of operation units that can be operated by a user, A user detection means for detecting a user; an operation detection means for detecting an operation unit operated by the first user among the plurality of operation units when a first user is detected by the user detection means; a storage means for storing operation information that records the operation unit detected by the operation detection means; a notification means for reading the operation information from the storage means when a second user is detected by the user detection means, and notifying the second user of the operation unit operated by the first user; Display means for displaying various information; Equipped with The information processing device is characterized in that when the second user is detected by the user detection means before a predetermined period of time has elapsed after the first user has completed their operation, the notification means displays the remaining time until the predetermined period of time has elapsed on the display means.

4. The information processing device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that when the user detection means detects the second user before a predetermined period of time has elapsed after the first user has completed the operation, the notification means displays a warning on the display means to not operate the operation unit operated by the first user until the predetermined period of time has elapsed.

5. The information processing device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that when the user detection means detects the second user before a predetermined period of time has elapsed after the first user has completed operation, the notification means displays on the display means a message instructing the user to disinfect the operating unit operated by the first user before operating it.

6. The information processing device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that when the second user is detected by the user detection means before a predetermined period of time has elapsed after the first user has completed the operation, the notification means displays a guidance message on the display means to operate an operation unit different from the operation unit operated by the first user.

7. 7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the notification unit terminates the display of the operation unit operated by the first user on the display unit based on the operation by the second user.

8. An information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the notification means does not notify the second user of the operation unit operated by the first user when the second user detected by the user detection means is the same user as the first user.

9. The information processing device according to any one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that, when the second user detected by the user detection means is the same user as the first user, the notification means displays on the display means a guide recommending that the user not operate any operation unit other than the operation unit operated by the first user.

10. the user detection means includes authentication means for authenticating a user; 10. The information processing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the notification unit determines whether the second user is the same user as the first user based on the authentication result by the authentication unit.

11. 11. The information processing device according to claim 8, wherein the notification means determines that the second user is the same user as the first user when the interval between operations on at least one of the plurality of operation units is within a predetermined time.

12. further comprising a human detection sensor that detects a person present within a predetermined distance from the information processing device; 12. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the user detection means detects the user based on a detection result of the human detection sensor.

13. the plurality of operation units include a paper feed tray that can be opened and closed relative to the device body, 13. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the operation detecting means includes a tray open / close detection sensor that detects whether the paper feed tray is opened or closed.

14. the plurality of operation units include a document placement unit on which a document is placed, 14. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the operation detection unit includes a document detection sensor that detects that a document has been placed on the document placement unit.

15. the plurality of operation units include a paper output tray for outputting sheets on which images are printed, 15. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the operation detecting unit includes a sheet detecting sensor that detects the presence or absence of the sheet in the paper discharge tray.

16. the plurality of operation units include an operation panel on which a user performs various setting operations; 16. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the operation detection unit includes a touch operation detection sensor that detects a touch operation by a user on the operation panel.

17. an image acquisition means connected to an image capture means for capturing an image in which the information processing device is included in a capture range, and for acquiring the image captured by the image capture means; Further provided with 17. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the operation detection means detects an operation unit operated by the first user by analyzing the image acquired by the image acquisition means.

18. A control method for an information processing device having a plurality of operation units that can be operated by a user, comprising: a user detection step of detecting a user; an operation detection step of detecting an operation unit operated by the first user among the plurality of operation units when a first user is detected by the user detection step; a storage step of storing operation information recorded by the operation detection step in a predetermined storage means; a notification step of reading the operation information from the storage means when a second user is detected by the user detection step, and notifying the second user of the operation unit operated by the first user; Equipped with The control method is characterized in that the plurality of operation units include doors that can be opened and closed relative to the device body, and the operation detection step includes a door opening / closing detection step that detects that the doors have been opened or closed.

19. A method for controlling an information processing device having a plurality of user-operable operation units, comprising: a user detection step of detecting a user; an operation detection step of detecting an operation unit operated by the first user among the plurality of operation units when a first user is detected by the user detection step; a storage step of storing operation information recorded by the operation detection step in a predetermined storage means; a notification step of, when a second user is detected by the user detection step, reading the operation information from the storage means and displaying on a display means an operation unit operated by the first user to notify the second user; Equipped with When the second user is detected in the user detection step before a predetermined period of time has elapsed after the operation by the first user has been completed, the remaining time until the predetermined period of time has elapsed is displayed on the display means in the notification step. A control method comprising:

20. A program executed in an information processing device having a plurality of operation units operable by a user, the information processing device comprising: a user detection step of detecting a user; an operation detection step of detecting an operation unit operated by the first user among the plurality of operation units when a first user is detected by the user detection step; a storage step of storing operation information recorded by the operation detection step in a predetermined storage means; a notification step of reading the operation information from the storage means when a second user is detected by the user detection step, and notifying the second user of the operation unit operated by the first user; is a program that executes the plurality of operation units include a door that can be opened and closed relative to the device body, and the operation detection step includes a door opening / closing detection step of detecting that the door is opened or closed. A program characterized by:

21. A program executed in an information processing device having a plurality of user-operable operation units, the information processing device comprising: a user detection step of detecting a user; an operation detection step of detecting an operation unit operated by the first user among the plurality of operation units when a first user is detected by the user detection step; a storage step of storing operation information recorded by the operation detection step in a predetermined storage means; a notification step of, when a second user is detected by the user detection step, reading the operation information from the storage means and displaying on a display means an operation unit operated by the first user to notify the second user; a step of displaying, on the display means, a remaining time until the predetermined period of time elapses when the second user is detected by the user detection step after the operation by the first user has ended and before the predetermined period of time has elapsed; A program characterized by executing the following.

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