Image processing device and control method for image processing device

Abstract

To provide an image processing device and the like that can handle destination information with consideration for security while ensuring convenience related to the use of the destination information obtained from a terminal device.SOLUTION: An image processing device includes a communication unit, a storage unit, and a control unit. The control unit stores, in the storage unit, destination information received from a terminal device through the communication unit and deletes the destination information from the storage unit in response to a trigger. At least the destination information is held until the trigger is input.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image processing device and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] Some image processing devices, such as multifunction peripherals, have a function of acquiring destination information, such as email addresses and fax numbers, managed by terminal devices, such as smartphones, tablets, mobile phones, or personal computers. Some of these image processing devices are known to be able to send image data to destinations that are not managed by the device itself by setting the destination information acquired from the terminal device as the destination for jobs, such as those with a fax transmission function or an image transmission function.

[0003] Generally, from a security standpoint, destination information acquired from a terminal device is erased after a job is executed. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an image processing device that erases the display and data of contact information acquired from a mobile terminal if a contact is not selected within a predetermined time after the contact information is displayed. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-186758 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In the prior art, after executing a job using destination information acquired from a terminal device, if the destination information is to be reused, it is necessary to again connect to the terminal device and acquire the destination information again. In addition, since the destination information used to execute a job is stored as a setting value in the history information, there is a problem in that the destination information may be leaked from the history information.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an image processing device or the like that is capable of handling destination information with security in mind while ensuring convenience in using destination information acquired from a terminal device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problem, the image processing device according to the present disclosure includes a communication unit, a memory unit, and a control unit, and the control unit stores destination information received from a terminal device via the communication unit in the memory unit, and erases the destination information from the memory unit in response to a trigger, and is characterized in that the destination information is retained at least until a trigger is input.

[0008] In addition, the control method for an image processing device according to the present disclosure includes a step of storing destination information received from a terminal device in a memory unit, and a step of deleting the destination information from the memory unit in response to a trigger, and is characterized in that the destination information is retained at least until a trigger is input. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an image processing device or the like that is capable of handling destination information with security in mind while ensuring convenience in using destination information acquired from a terminal device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an overall configuration according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating destination information. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating history information. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a processing flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a processing flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7]FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a functional configuration diagram of a multifunction peripheral according to a second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of the second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a functional configuration diagram of a multifunction peripheral according to a third embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of the third embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a functional configuration diagram of a multifunction peripheral according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of the fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In this disclosure, a multifunction peripheral that executes functions such as e-mail transmission, fax transmission, and copying on a job-by-job basis will be described as one form of an image processing device. Note that the following embodiment is an example for explaining the present disclosure, and the technical scope of the claims is not limited to the following description.

[0012] [1 First Embodiment] The first embodiment relates to a multifunction peripheral that stores destination information received from a terminal device in a storage unit and deletes the destination information from the storage unit in response to a trigger.

[0013] [1.1 Overall structure] Fig. 1 is a diagram illustrating the overall configuration of a multifunction device 10 according to a first embodiment. The multifunction device 10 is configured to be connected to a terminal device 30 and to be able to send and receive information to and from the terminal device 30. Fig. 1 illustrates an example in which the multifunction device 10 is directly connected to the terminal device 30 via wireless communication, but the multifunction device 10 can also be connected to the terminal device 30 via a network (not shown), such as a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), or the Internet.

[0014] The terminal device 30 is assumed to be, for example, a so-called mobile terminal device such as a smartphone, tablet, mobile phone, laptop computer, etc., but is not limited to these. Stationary terminal devices such as desktop computers are also included in the terminal device of the present disclosure as long as they are in an environment where they can communicate with the multifunction peripheral 10.

[0015] There is also no particular limit to the number of terminal devices 30 that can be connected to the multifunction device 10. When multiple terminal devices 30 are connected to the multifunction device 10, these terminal devices 30 may be of the same model or different model configurations.

[0016] [1.2 Functional Configuration] 2 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction device 10. 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, and a storage unit 23.

[0017] The control unit 11 controls the entire multifunction device 10. The control unit 11 is configured, for example, with one or more arithmetic units (CPUs (Central Processing Units) and the like). The control unit 11 realizes its functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 23.

[0018] The display unit 13 displays various types of information to the user, etc. The display unit 13 can be configured, for example, by an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro-luminescence) display, or the like.

[0019] The operation input unit 15 accepts information input by a user or the like. The operation input unit 15 can be configured with hard keys (for example, a numeric keypad), buttons, etc. The operation input unit 15 can also be configured as a touch panel that allows input via the display unit 13. In this case, the input method of the touch panel can be, for example, a resistive film method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, or a capacitance method.

[0020] The communication unit 17 includes a wireless communication interface such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC (Near field communication), Wi-fi (registered trademark), ZigBee (registered trademark), Irda, or wireless USB. The communication unit 17 may also include a wired or wireless interface, or both, for communicating with other devices via a network (not shown), such as a LAN, a WAN, the Internet, a telephone line, or a fax line. The multifunction peripheral 10 is connected to a terminal device 30 via the communication unit 17.

[0021] The image forming unit 19 forms an image based on image data on paper as a recording medium. The image forming unit 19 feeds paper from a paper feed unit, forms an image on the paper, and then discharges the paper to a paper discharge unit. The image forming unit 19 can be configured, for example, by a laser printer that uses an electrophotographic method. The image forming unit 19 forms an image using toner supplied from toner cartridges (not shown) that correspond to toner colors (e.g., cyan, magenta, yellow, and black).

[0022] The image reading unit 21 generates image data by scanning and reading the document image to be read. The image reading unit 21 can be configured as a scanner device equipped with an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CIS (Contact Image Sensor). There are no particular limitations on the configuration of the image reading unit 21, as long as it is configured to generate image data by reading a reflected light image from the document image with an image sensor.

[0023] The storage unit 23 stores various programs and various data such as image data required for the operation of the multifunction device 10. The storage unit 23 can be configured with a storage device such as a RAM (Random access memory), an HDD (Hard disk drive), an SSD (Solid state drive), or a ROM (Random access memory).

[0024] In the first embodiment, the memory unit 23 stores a job execution program 231, a destination information acquisition program 232, a history information processing program 233, an erasure determination program 234, a destination information erasure program 235, and a display processing program 236, and reserves a destination information storage area 237 and a history information storage area 238.

[0025] The job execution program 231 is a program that the control unit 11 reads out to perform processing for each job, such as e-mail transmission, fax transmission, or copying. The control unit 11 that reads out the job execution program 231 executes the job by controlling each unit involved in the execution of the job, such as the display unit 13, operation input unit 15, communication unit 17, image forming unit 19, or image reading unit 21. The control unit 11 that reads out the job execution program 231 can execute various jobs based on setting values ​​stored as history information, which will be described later.

[0026] The destination information acquisition program 232 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when a request to acquire destination information is received from the user. After reading the destination information acquisition program 232, the control unit 11 requests the terminal device 30 to output destination information, such as an email address, a fax number, or a telephone number, that is managed by the terminal device 30. There are no particular limitations on the means for acquiring the destination information. For example, when communicating with the terminal device 30 via Bluetooth, a phone book transfer profile such as the PBAP (Phone Book Access Profile) or the OPP (Object Push Profile) can be used. The control unit 11 stores the destination information output in, for example, a vCard format or a CSV format in the destination information storage area 237.

[0027] The history information processing program 233 is a program read by the control unit 11 when, for example, obtaining setting values ​​related to job execution, generating history information, and performing various processes on the history information. After reading the history information processing program 233, the control unit 11 stores the generated history information in the history information storage area 238.

[0028] The deletion determination program 234 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when determining whether to delete the retained destination information in response to a trigger. Note that the trigger in this disclosure refers to a cause or timing that causes the device state of the multifunction device 10 to change to a predetermined device state, and includes, for example, pressing a specific operation button, initialization processing, transition to energy saving mode, timing of a predetermined screen transition, etc.

[0029] The destination information erasure program 235 is a program that the control unit 11 reads out when the held destination information is to be erased.

[0030] The display processing program 236 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 when displaying a history information display screen, a setting screen related to job execution, an inquiry screen, a message screen, or the like (not shown) on the display unit 13. Having read the display processing program 236, the control unit 11 displays the history information display screen, the setting screen related to job execution, an inquiry screen, a message screen, or the like on the display unit 13 in accordance with frame information, content placement information, or the like (not shown).

[0031] The destination information storage area 237 is a storage area for storing destination information acquired from the terminal device 30. The destination information stored in the destination information storage area 237 is read out when a job that uses the destination information is executed or when determining whether to delete the destination information.

[0032] Here, the destination information according to the present disclosure will be described. Fig. 3 is a diagram illustrating one form of the data structure of the destination information (destination table) stored in the destination information storage area 237. In the present disclosure, the destination information may be simply referred to as an address.

[0033] For example, the destination information for ID "1" is an example in which the destination name "Aiueo" is associated with the e-mail address "aiueo@sample.com", the fax number "00-1111-2222", and the telephone number "aa-bbbb-cccc". For example, when an e-mail sending job for the destination name "Aiueo" for ID "1" is executed, the control unit 11 reads out the e-mail address "aiueo@sample.com" from the destination information stored in the destination information storage area 237. Then, the control unit 11 sets the read e-mail address as the destination, thereby enabling e-mail to be sent to the destination name "Aiueo".

[0034] It should be noted that the data structure of the destination information illustrated in Fig. 3 is merely an example and is not limited to the example illustrated in Fig. 3. For example, it is also possible to use the data structure adopted by the terminal device 30 from which the destination information is obtained in its original format.

[0035] The history information storage area 238 is a storage area that stores history information generated by the control unit 11 that reads out the history information processing program 233. The history information stored in the history information storage area 238 is read out when the history information is displayed on the display unit 13 or when a job that uses the history information is executed.

[0036] Here, the history information according to the present disclosure will be described. Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating one form of the data structure of the history information (history table) stored in the history information storage area 238.

[0037] For example, the history information for job ID "2" indicates a job whose job type is "Email transmission" and which was executed on the execution date and time "2020 / 04 / 01 11:00." The history information for job ID "2" includes setting values ​​mainly related to image scanning, such as color mode, resolution, and data format, as well as the setting value for the email destination of "aiueo@sample.com." Note that the setting values ​​shown in FIG. 4 are merely examples, and the setting values ​​in this disclosure are not limited to only the items described in FIG. 4.

[0038] [1.3 Processing flow] Next, the flow of processing according to the first embodiment will be described. Fig. 5 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of processing by the multifunction device 10. The multifunction device 10 realizes the processing at each step by appropriately reading out various programs stored in the storage unit 23.

[0039] First, the control unit 11 reads the destination information acquisition program 232 and determines whether or not the destination information has been acquired from the terminal device 30. If the destination information has been acquired, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the destination information is held (Step S10; Yes → Step S20).

[0040] Here, "destination information being held" refers to a state in which the destination information acquired from the terminal device 30 is stored in the destination information storage area 237, and the history information using the destination information is stored in the history information storage area 238, and means a state in which the destination information has not been explicitly erased.

[0041] If the destination information is stored, the control unit 11 displays a distinctive indication that the destination information is stored in the destination information storage area 237 of the storage unit 23 (step S20; Yes → step S30). The distinctive indication can be configured as, for example, a selection button that is distinctively displayed on the display unit 13 and can be selected by the user.

[0042] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the user has selected the identification display. If the user has selected the identification display, the control unit 11 displays a menu screen for accepting processing for the destination information (step S40; Yes→step S50).

[0043] Next, the control unit 11 accepts the selection of the process for the destination information via the menu screen (step S60).

[0044] When an instruction to erase destination information is received via the menu screen, the control unit 11 performs the process of erasing destination information by reading out the destination information erasing program 235 (step S60; "erase instruction" -> step S70).

[0045] After the control unit 11 has performed the process of erasing the destination information, the control unit 11 ends the identification display (step S80).

[0046] Furthermore, when an instruction to add destination information is received via the menu screen, the control unit 11 performs processing to add destination information (step S60; "addition instruction" → step S90). After the processing to add destination information, the control unit 11 returns the processing to step S10.

[0047] Furthermore, when an instruction to display destination information is received via the menu screen, the control unit 11 performs a process to display the destination information (step S60; "display instruction" → step S100). After the process to display the destination information, the control unit 11 proceeds to step S110 in FIG. 6.

[0048] If the control unit 11 has not acquired the destination information (step S10; No) or if the destination information is not held (step S20; No), the control unit 11 ends the process.

[0049] 6. If the user has not selected the identification display (step S40; No), the control unit 11 moves the process to step S110 in FIG.

[0050] Fig. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the process after the destination information display process in step S100 in Fig. 5 or when the user does not select the identification display in step S40. The process in Fig. 6 is executed by the control unit 11 mainly by reading out the erasure determination program 234.

[0051] After the destination information display process (step S100), or if the user has not selected the identification display (step S40; No), the control unit 11 determines whether the logout process, initialization process, or transition to energy saving mode has been performed when the use of the multifunction device 10 has ended.

[0052] When the control unit 11 determines that the user has performed any one of the logout process, the initialization process, or the transition to the energy saving mode, it displays a destination information deletion confirmation screen on the display unit 13 (step S110; Yes → step S170). After displaying the destination information deletion confirmation screen, the control unit 11 erases the destination information, ends the identification display, and ends the process.

[0053] On the other hand, if it is determined that the user has not performed any of the logout process, initialization process, or transition to energy saving mode, the control unit 11 determines whether a job was executed or canceled at the time the user finished using the destination information (step S110; No → step S120).

[0054] If the control unit 11 determines that the job has been executed or canceled by the user, it displays a destination information deletion confirmation screen on the display unit 13 (step S120; Yes → step S170). After displaying the destination information deletion confirmation screen, the control unit 11 deletes the destination information, ends the identification display, and ends the process.

[0055] On the other hand, if it is determined that the job has not been executed or canceled by the user, the control unit 11 determines whether the user has transitioned from the fax job screen or the image transmission job screen to another job screen, or from the simple scan mode screen or the simple fax mode screen to another mode screen (step S120; No → step S130).

[0056] When the control unit 11 determines that the user has transitioned from the fax job screen or the image transmission job screen to another job screen, or from the simple scan mode screen or the simple fax mode screen to another mode screen, the control unit 11 displays a destination information deletion confirmation screen on the display unit 13 (step S130; Yes → step S170). After displaying the destination information deletion confirmation screen, the control unit 11 erases the destination information, ends the identification display, and ends the process.

[0057] On the other hand, if it is determined that the user has not transitioned from the fax job screen or image transmission job screen to another job screen, or from the simple scan mode screen or simple fax mode screen to another mode screen, the control unit 11 retains the destination information (step S130; No → step S140).

[0058] Then, the control unit 11 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the identification display (step S150). If the predetermined time has elapsed since the identification display, the control unit 11 ends the identification display (step S150; Yes → step S160). On the other hand, the control unit 11 continues the identification display until the predetermined time has elapsed since the identification display (step S150; No).

[0059] [1.4 Example of operation] Next, an example of operation according to the first embodiment will be described. Fig. 7 shows an example of the configuration of the destination information deletion confirmation screen W10 that the control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13 in step S170 of Fig. 6 .

[0060] The destination information deletion confirmation screen W10 includes a message display area R10 that asks the user whether or not to delete the address as destination information obtained from the terminal device 30, an OK button B10 that accepts a deletion instruction, and a cancel button B12 that accepts cancellation of the deletion instruction.

[0061] If the user wishes to delete the address, they can do so by pressing the OK button B10. On the other hand, if they do not wish to delete the address, they can cancel the deletion of the address by pressing the Cancel button B12.

[0062] 8 shows an example of the configuration of an erasure status notification screen W20 that the control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13 in response to pressing the OK button B10 on the destination information erasure confirmation screen W10. The erasure status notification screen W20 includes an erasure status notification area R12 that notifies the user of the address erasure status, such as "The address and related history information obtained from the terminal device are being erased...". The user can understand the address erasure status by checking the content notified in the erasure status notification area R12.

[0063] 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a job execution screen W30 for an email sending job that uses history information. The job execution screen W30 includes an address retention button B14 as an identification display, a process selection button B16, a start button B18, a setting information display area R14, and a destination display area R16. The job execution screen W30 can be displayed, for example, via a home screen (not shown).

[0064] The Address Retained button B14 is configured to explicitly indicate that destination information is being retained and to allow the user to select an action to be taken on the address. When the Address Retained button B14 is pressed, the control unit 11 displays a menu screen W40 that allows the user to select an action to be taken on the address.

[0065] The process selection button B16 is a button that accepts the selection of a process desired by the user. The process selection button B16 includes buttons that accept the selection of a process desired by the user, such as "Destination List," "Send History," "Call by Search Number," "Done Stamp," "Program Registration," and "Send Link to Save Destination." For example, by pressing the "Destination List" button, the user can display addresses that the multifunction device 10 manages itself in addition to addresses acquired from the terminal device 30.

[0066] The start button B18 is a button that accepts input of an instruction to execute an e-mail sending job. After checking the settings on the job execution screen W30, the user can execute the e-mail sending job by pressing the start button B18.

[0067] The setting information display area R14 is an area for displaying each setting information related to an e-mail sending job. The setting values ​​included in the history information selected by the user are applied and displayed in the setting information display area R14. Fig. 9 shows an example in which setting values ​​such as color mode: full color, resolution: 200 dpi x 200 dpi, data format: PDF, etc., included in the history information related to job ID "2" shown in Fig. 4 are applied.

[0068] The destination display area R16 is an area that displays the destination address of the email sending job. In the destination display area R16, the destination information (destination address: aiueo@sample.com) included as a setting value in the applied history information (job ID "2") is set.

[0069] Fig. 10 shows an example of the configuration of a menu screen W40 that the control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13 in response to pressing of the Address Retention button B14 on the Job Execution screen W30 of Fig. 9. The menu screen W40 includes a menu display area R18, a Further Display button B20, a Delete Address button B22, and an Add Address button B24.

[0070] The menu display area R18 further secures a display area for the display button B20 and the like, and also has an address display area for displaying (a portion of) the addresses held by the multifunction device 10.

[0071] The display button B20 is a button that accepts an instruction input to further display the remaining (hidden) addresses when the addresses displayed in the address display area are only a portion of the addresses held by the multifunction device 10. When the display button B20 is pressed by the user, the control unit 11 displays the all address display screen W50, which will be described in Fig. 11, on the display unit 13. Note that if all addresses cannot be displayed in the address display area, it is also possible to display a scroll bar or the like to switch between all addresses.

[0072] 11 shows an example of the configuration of an all address display screen W50 that the control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13 in response to pressing of the further display button B20 on the menu screen W40. The all address display screen W50 includes an all address display area R20 and an OK button B26.

[0073] The all address display area R20 is a display area that displays all e-mail addresses (see FIG. 4) held by the multifunction device 10. Note that while FIG. 11 shows an example in which only e-mail addresses are displayed as addresses held by the multifunction device 10, it is also possible to display addresses other than e-mail addresses, such as fax numbers and telephone numbers. In the all address display area R20, it is sufficient to be able to identify addresses as destination information held by the multifunction device 10, and there are no restrictions on the types of addresses that can be displayed.

[0074] The OK button B26 is a button that is pressed by the user after confirming the addresses displayed in the all address display area R20. When the user presses the OK button B26, the control unit 11 returns the display to the menu screen W40.

[0075] Returning to Fig. 10 again, the Delete Address button B22 is a button that accepts input of an instruction to delete an address held by the multifunction device 10. When the user presses the Delete Address button B22, the control unit 11 deletes the address as destination information stored in the destination information storage area 237. Furthermore, when deleting the address, if history information using the address is stored in the history information storage area 238, the control unit 11 also deletes the corresponding history information. Note that when deleting the history information, only the address as destination information included in the history information may be deleted.

[0076] The Add Address button B24 is a button that accepts instruction input when adding an address. When the user presses the Add Address button B24, the control unit 11 displays an address addition screen W60, which will be described with reference to FIG. 12, on the display unit 13.

[0077] 12 shows an example of the configuration of an address addition screen W60 that the control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13 in response to pressing of the Add Address button B24 on the menu screen W40. The address addition screen W60 includes a source selection display area R22, a source selection check box C10, a path input box Bx10, and a terminal device designation button B28.

[0078] The source selection display area R22 displays a message prompting the user to select the source of the address to be added, and also secures an area for displaying source selection check boxes C10 and the like.

[0079] The source selection check box C10 is a check box that accepts the selection of a method for specifying the terminal device 30 that will be the source of the address to be added. In Fig. 12, selectable specification methods are "specify from connection history (for the multifunction device 10)", "specify a specific terminal device", and "display connectable terminal devices". The user can specify the terminal device 30 that will be the source of the address to be added by checking the desired item.

[0080] For example, when the user selects "Specify from connection history," the control unit 11 refers to the connection history information for the device itself. The control unit 11 then displays the terminal devices 30 with connection histories from the connection history information on a display screen (not shown). If there are multiple terminal devices 30 with connection histories, it is also possible to prioritize displaying the terminal devices with the most recent connection histories, or the connection histories of terminal devices 30 that are closest to the multifunction device 10. The control unit 11 then accepts the user's selection of a terminal device 30 and specifies the source of the address to be added.

[0081] Furthermore, when the user selects "Specify a specific terminal device", the control unit 11 designates the terminal device 30 that is connectable based on the connection path input in the path input box Bx10 as the source of the address to be added.

[0082] Furthermore, when the user selects "Display connectable terminal devices," the control unit 11 detects connectable terminal devices 30 located near the multifunction device 10 and displays them on a display screen (not shown). If there are multiple terminal devices 30 with connection histories, it is also possible to prioritize displaying the most recent connection history or the connection history of terminal devices 30 closest to the multifunction device 10. The control unit 11 then specifies the source of the address to be added by accepting the user's selection of a terminal device 30.

[0083] The terminal device designation button B28 is a button that accepts a confirmation input of the designation method for the terminal device 30 selected via the source selection checkbox C10. When the user checks the source selection checkbox C10 and presses the terminal device designation button B28, the control unit 11 designates the terminal device 30 as the address acquisition source based on the selected designation method. The control unit 11 then makes an address acquisition request to the designated terminal device 30. If the terminal device 30 that has received the address acquisition request has an address that can be added, the control unit 11 can acquire it and add the address.

[0084] As described above, according to the first embodiment, it is possible to provide an image processing device or the like that can handle destination information with security in mind while ensuring convenience in using destination information obtained from a terminal device.

[0085] [2 Second Embodiment] The multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment is configured to erase all addresses as destination information stored in the destination information storage area 237. The second embodiment is configured to erase only selected addresses, thereby providing a multifunction peripheral that can prevent addresses that the user plans to use from being unnecessarily erased.

[0086] [2.1 Functional Configuration] 13 is a functional configuration diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the multifunction device 50 according to the second embodiment. Note that the same components as those in the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof may be omitted.

[0087] The multifunction device 50 includes a control unit 11, a display unit 13, an operation input unit 15, a communication unit 17, an image forming unit 19, an image reading unit 21, and a storage unit 53.

[0088] In the second embodiment, the memory unit 53 stores a job execution program 231, a destination information acquisition program 232, a history information processing program 233, an erasure determination program 234, a destination information erasure program 535, and a display processing program 236, and reserves a destination information storage area 237 and a history information storage area 238.

[0089] The destination information erasure program 535 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 when erasing a stored address. The destination information erasure program 535 according to the second embodiment includes a destination information selection program 5351 that is read by the control unit 11 when accepting selection of an address that the user wishes to erase.

[0090] The control unit 11, which has read out the destination information selection program 5351, displays on the display unit 13 a destination information selection screen that accepts the selection of an address that the user wishes to erase.

[0091] [2.2 Processing flow] The processing flow according to the second embodiment can be substantially the same as the processing flow described in the flowcharts of Figures 5 and 6 for the first embodiment. The destination information selection screen W70 described in the next figure can be displayed, for example, as a pre-stage process for the address deletion process according to step S70 in Figure 5.

[0092] [2.3 Example of operation] 14 shows an example of the destination information selection screen W70 that accepts the selection of addresses that the user wishes to delete. The destination information selection screen W70 includes a selected address display area R24, selected address check boxes C12, an OK button B30, and a cancel button B32.

[0093] The selected address display area R24 displays a message prompting the user to select an address to be deleted, and also secures a display area for the selected address check box C12 and the like.

[0094] The selected address checkboxes C12 are checkboxes that accept the selection of addresses that the user wishes to erase. The user can select the addresses to be erased by checking the checkboxes corresponding to the addresses that the user wishes to erase.

[0095] The OK button B30 accepts an instruction to confirm the selection of the address to be deleted. On the other hand, the Cancel button B32 accepts an instruction to cancel the selection of the address to be deleted. When the user checks the checkbox corresponding to the address they wish to delete and presses the OK button B30, the control unit 11 deletes the address stored in the destination information storage area 237. Furthermore, when deleting the address, if history information using the address is stored in the history information storage area 238, the control unit 11 also deletes the corresponding history information. Note that when deleting the history information, only the address as destination information included in the history information may be deleted.

[0096] As described above, according to the second embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, it is possible to erase only the destination information that the user wishes to erase, thereby preventing destination information that the user plans to use from being erased unnecessarily.

[0097] [3 Third embodiment] The multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment is configured to immediately erase the address as destination information stored in the destination information storage area 237 after displaying the destination information deletion confirmation screen. The third embodiment is a multifunction peripheral that allows the timing of address deletion to be set, thereby making it possible to effectively use addresses that are scheduled to be deleted.

[0098] [3.1 Functional Configuration] 15 is a functional configuration diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the multifunction device 70 according to the third embodiment. Note that the same components as those in the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof may be omitted.

[0099] The multifunction device 70 includes a control unit 11, a display unit 13, an operation input unit 15, a communication unit 17, an image forming unit 19, an image reading unit 21, and a storage unit 73.

[0100] In the third embodiment, the memory unit 73 stores a job execution program 231, a destination information acquisition program 232, a history information processing program 233, an erasure determination program 234, a destination information erasure program 735, and a display processing program 236, and reserves a destination information storage area 237 and a history information storage area 238.

[0101] The destination information erasure program 735 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 when erasing a stored address. The destination information erasure program 735 according to the third embodiment includes an erasure timing selection program 7351 that is read by the control unit 11 when accepting selection of the timing to erase an address.

[0102] The control unit 11 that has read out the erase timing selection program 7351 displays on the display unit 13 an erase timing selection screen W80 that accepts the selection of the erase timing for erasing the address.

[0103] [3.2 Processing flow] The processing flow according to the third embodiment can be substantially the same as the processing flow described in the flowcharts of Figures 5 and 6 for the first embodiment. The erase timing selection screen W80 described in the next figure can be displayed, for example, as a pre-stage process for address erase processing according to step S70 in Figure 5.

[0104] [3.3 Example of operation] 16 shows an example of the configuration of an erase timing selection screen W80 that accepts the selection of the erase timing desired by the user. The erase timing selection screen W80 includes an erase timing display area R26, an erase timing selection check box C14, an OK button B34, and a cancel button B36.

[0105] The erase timing display area R26 displays a message prompting the user to select the erase timing of the address, and also secures a display area for the erase timing selection check box C14 and the like.

[0106] The erase timing selection checkbox C14 is a checkbox that accepts the selection of the erase timing for erasing the address. The user can select the erase timing by checking the checkbox that corresponds to the desired erase timing.

[0107] FIG. 18 shows examples of address erasure timing, including "erase immediately," "erase at the next erasure timing," and "specify the number of uses." For example, if the user selects "erase at the next erasure timing," the control unit 11 does not erase the address immediately but holds it until the next erasure timing. Also, if the user selects "specify the number of uses," the control unit 11 erases the address when the number of uses of the address to be erased reaches a predetermined number.

[0108] The OK button B34 accepts an instruction to confirm the selection of the erasure timing. On the other hand, the Cancel button B36 accepts an instruction to cancel the selection of the erasure timing. When the user checks the checkbox corresponding to the erasure timing desired and presses the OK button B34, the control unit 11 erases the address stored in the destination information storage area 237 at the selected erasure timing. Furthermore, when erasing the address, if history information using the address is stored in the history information storage area 238, the control unit 11 also erases the corresponding history information. Note that when erasing the history information, only the address as destination information included in the history information may be erased.

[0109] As described above, according to the third embodiment, the destination information can be erased at the erasure timing desired by the user. For example, even if it is necessary to send e-mails to the same destination multiple times, the destination information to be used is erased at the selected erasure timing, so that the destination information can be erased reliably while ensuring the convenience of using the destination information.

[0110] [4 Fourth embodiment] The multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment was configured to erase history information using an address stored in the destination information storage area 237 when that address is erased and the history information using that address is stored in the history information storage area 238. The fourth embodiment is configured to allow selection of history information to be erased when an address is erased, thereby enabling the multifunction peripheral to retain history information that the user does not want erased.

[0111] [4.1 Functional Configuration] 17 is a functional configuration diagram illustrating the functional configuration of a multifunction device 90 according to the fourth embodiment. Note that the same components as those in the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof may be omitted.

[0112] The multifunction device 90 includes a control unit 11, a display unit 13, an operation input unit 15, a communication unit 17, an image forming unit 19, an image reading unit 21, and a storage unit 93.

[0113] In the fourth embodiment, the memory unit 93 stores a job execution program 231, a destination information acquisition program 232, a history information processing program 233, an erasure determination program 234, a destination information erasure program 935, and a display processing program 236, and reserves a destination information storage area 237 and a history information storage area 238.

[0114] The destination information erasure program 935 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 when erasing a stored address. The destination information erasure program 935 according to the fourth embodiment includes a related history information selection program 9351 that is read by the control unit 11 when accepting the selection of history information to be erased.

[0115] The control unit 11, which has read out the related history information selection program 9351, displays on the display unit 13 a related history information selection screen for accepting the selection of the history information to be deleted.

[0116] [4.2 Processing flow] The processing flow according to the fourth embodiment can be substantially the same as the processing flow described in the flowcharts of Figures 5 and 6 of the first embodiment. The related history information selection screen W90 described in the next figure can be displayed, for example, as a process preceding the process of deleting destination information in step S70 of Figure 5.

[0117] [4.3 Example of operation] 18 shows an example of the related history information selection screen W90 that accepts the selection of history information that the user wishes to delete. The related history information selection screen W90 includes a history information to be deleted display area R28, a history information to be deleted selection check box C16, a history information display button B38, an OK button B40, and a cancel button B42.

[0118] The erasure target history information display area R28 displays a message prompting the user to select the history information to be erased, and also secures an area for displaying the erasure target history information selection checkbox C16 and the like.

[0119] The checkboxes C16 for selecting history information to be deleted are checkboxes that accept the selection of history information to be deleted. The user can select the history information to be deleted by checking the checkboxes corresponding to the history information to be deleted along with deleting the address.

[0120] Fig. 18 is an example in which history information using the address "aiueo@sample.com" to be deleted is displayed as history information to be deleted (see Fig. 4). For example, if the user selects history information related to "Job ID2: Send E-mail", the control unit 11 deletes the history information related to the selected "Job ID2: Send E-mail" in conjunction with deleting the address "aiueo@sample.com". At this time, "Job ID4: Send E-mail" has not been selected by the user, so that history information is not deleted.

[0121] If the content of the history information to be erased displayed in the history information to be erased display area R28 is unknown, the user can check the content (setting value) of the history information by pressing the history information display button B38.

[0122] The OK button B40 accepts an instruction to confirm the selection of history information to be deleted. On the other hand, the Cancel button B42 accepts an instruction to cancel the selection of history information. When the user checks the checkbox corresponding to the history information they wish to delete and presses the OK button B40, the control unit 11 deletes the address stored in the destination information storage area 237 and also deletes the selected history information from the history information storage area 238.

[0123] If the history information to be deleted is not selected via the related history information selection screen W90, the history information will include destination information. In this case, when displaying the history information, the security of the destination information can be ensured by hiding or partially obscuring the portion related to the destination information.

[0124] As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, it is possible to select the history information to be erased along with the erasure of destination information, and therefore it is possible to prevent, for example, history information of a job executed based on special settings or history information that is highly useful to the user from being unnecessarily erased along with the erasure of destination information.

[0125] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible. In other words, embodiments obtained by combining technical means that are appropriately modified within the scope of the present invention are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0126] Furthermore, although the above-described embodiments are described separately for the sake of convenience, they may of course be combined and executed within the scope of technical feasibility.

[0127] In addition, the programs that run on each device in the embodiments are programs that control the CPU, etc. (programs that make a computer function) so as to realize the functions of the above-described embodiments. Information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (e.g., RAM) during processing, and then stored in various storage devices such as ROMs (Read Only Memories) and HDDs, and is read, modified, and written by the CPU as needed.

[0128] Here, the recording medium for storing the program may be any of semiconductor media (e.g., ROM, non-volatile memory card, etc.), optical recording media / magneto-optical recording media (e.g., DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), MO (Magneto Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), CD (Compact Disc), BD (Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc, etc.)), magnetic recording media (e.g., magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.). Furthermore, not only are the functions of the above-described embodiments realized by executing the loaded program, but the functions of the present invention may also be realized by processing in cooperation with an operating system or other application programs, etc., based on instructions from the program.

[0129] Furthermore, when distributing the program on the market, the program can be stored on a portable recording medium and distributed, or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the storage device of the server computer is of course included in the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0130] 10, 50, 70, 90 multifunction device 11 Control section 13 Display section 15 Operation input section 17 Communications Department 19 Image forming unit 21 Image reading unit 23, 53, 73, 93 storage section 231 Job Execution Program 232 Destination Information Acquisition Program 233 History Information Processing Program 234 Erasure Judgment Program 235, 535, 735, 935 destination information erasure program 236 Display Processing Program 237 Destination information storage area 238 History information storage area 30 Terminal Equipment

Claims

1. The device includes a communication unit, a storage unit, a display unit, and a control unit, The control unit storing destination information received from the terminal device via the communication unit in the storage unit; a display unit that identifies a state in which the destination information is stored in the storage unit; The destination information is deleted from the storage unit in response to a trigger, The destination information is held at least until a trigger is input, The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the state in which the destination information is stored is identified by the display of a button that holds the destination information as the identification display.

2. The image processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit uses timing of a screen transition as the trigger.

3. 3. The image processing device according to claim 2, wherein the timing of the screen transition is a timing of a screen transition from a fax job screen or an image transmission job screen to another job screen, or a timing of a screen transition from a simple scan mode screen or a simple fax mode screen to another mode screen.

4. 2. The image processing device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit displays a menu screen on the display unit when the identification display is selected, and the menu screen includes an operation button for accepting deletion of the destination information.

5. The storage unit further stores a destination table, The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit adds the destination information to the destination table when the identification display is selected.

6. 2 . The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit performs a determination process of erasing the destination information from the storage unit in response to the trigger when the identification display is not selected.

7. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit accepts a designation of the destination information to be deleted.

8. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit receives a designation of a timing for erasing the destination information.

9. the storage unit further stores history information relating to a history of executed jobs; 9. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit, when deleting the destination information from the storage unit, deletes the history information relating to a job that used the destination information.

10. The image processing apparatus according to claim 9 , wherein the control unit accepts selection of the history information using the destination information.

11. A control method for an image processing device, comprising: storing the destination information received from the terminal device in a storage unit; a step of displaying, on a display unit, a state in which the destination information is stored in the storage unit; and deleting the destination information from the storage unit in response to a trigger. The destination information is held at least until a trigger is input, The control method according to claim 1, wherein the state in which the destination information is stored is identified by displaying a button that holds the destination information as the identification display.

Images