Image processing device

Abstract

To provide an image processing device and an image processing method capable of suppressing deterioration in convenience in using a shortcut to execute image processing.SOLUTION: An "output size" is extracted as a specific setting item from a plurality of setting items included in shortcut information 351 (S5), and whether a sheet of the "output size" exists is determined (S7). Unless the sheet of the "output size" exists, the size of the "output size" is changed to display a change UI screen D4 for executing a shortcut.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Conventionally, there have been image processing devices with a function that allows pre-registered setting values ​​for image processing to be called up by shortcut. Patent Document 1 describes an image forming device that determines whether an image can be formed according to image formation conditions (setting values), such as the paper size for image formation, and if the image can be formed, displays a key section (shortcut) corresponding to the image formation conditions on a display unit at a first density that is easy for the user to see, and if the image cannot be formed, displays the key section corresponding to the image formation conditions at a density lighter than the first density. This allows the user to understand that if there is a shortage of paper of the desired size, image formation using the corresponding key section cannot be performed. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-150009 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In addition to paper size, there are several other image processing parameters whose values ​​are called up by selecting a shortcut, such as the color, image quality, and magnification of the image output. For example, as described above, if there is a shortage of paper of a size corresponding to the value called up by selecting a shortcut, the image processing cannot be performed. The user can enable the image processing using the shortcut by replenishing paper of the missing size. However, rather than replenishing paper of the missing size, if the image processing device is capable of using paper of other sizes, the user may want to execute image formation using the values ​​associated with the shortcut for the parameters other than paper size, and change only the paper size used for image formation to an available size. In this case, if a shortcut is registered in which only the paper size parameter is set to a different size available on the image processing device that is different from the size associated with the shortcut, and the values ​​set for the parameters other than paper size are the same as those set for the shortcut, the user can select the other shortcut to perform the image processing. However, if the shortcut is not registered, the user must set multiple parameters, including paper size, before executing the image processing, which may be cumbersome for the user.

[0005] This embodiment This has been proposed in view of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide an image processing device and an image processing method that can suppress a decrease in convenience when performing image processing using shortcuts. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] This embodimentThe image processing device according to the present invention comprises a housing, a touch panel provided in the housing, an image processing unit provided inside the housing, a control unit, and a memory, and the control unit performs the following operations: a process of storing information used to control the image processing unit in the memory, each corresponding to a plurality of setting items related to the control of the image processing unit, in response to an instruction received from the touch panel; a process of displaying a shortcut on the touch panel; an extraction process of extracting a specific setting item from the plurality of setting items set in the shortcut displayed on the touch panel; a process of displaying a screen on the touch panel that prompts the user to select whether or not to use change information, which is information different from the information stored in the memory in correspondence with the extracted specific setting item, when a signal indicating selection of the shortcut is detected while the shortcut is being displayed; and a control process of controlling the image processing unit using the change information and information stored in the memory in correspondence with setting items other than the specific setting item, when an instruction from the touch panel is to use change information while the screen is being displayed.

[0007] In this way, the user can easily execute a function for a specific setting item among the multiple setting values ​​set in the shortcut by using information different from the information stored in memory in correspondence with the specific setting item. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] This embodiment According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an image processing device and an image processing method that can suppress a decrease in convenience when executing image processing using a shortcut. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the MFP. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the MFP. [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart showing the processing content of shortcut generation processing according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4]It is a flowchart showing the processing content of the shortcut execution process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] It is a diagram for explaining the transition of the display screen of the touch panel according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] It is a flowchart showing the processing content of the shortcut update process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a diagram for explaining the transition of the display screen of the touch panel related to the shortcut update process of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] It is a flowchart showing the processing content of the shortcut generation execution process according to the second embodiment.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] [First Embodiment] <Configuration of MFP> Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present application will be described with reference to the drawings. The MFP (Multi Function Peripheral) 10 is a multifunctional device having a printing function, a copying function, a scanner function, a FAX transmission function, and a FAX reception function. In the following description, the directions are described based on the user who uses the MFP 10. That is, in FIG. 1, the front right side is “front”, the left back side is “rear”, the diagonal right side is “right”, the diagonal left side is “left”, the upper side is “upper”, and the lower side is “lower”. As shown in FIG. 1, the MFP 10 includes a housing 11, a document cover 21, an ADF (Auto Document Feeder) 23, paper feed trays 17, 18, a paper discharge tray 19, an operation panel 12, and a USB receptacle 43, etc. The housing 11 is substantially box-shaped, and a document cover 21 that covers a document table (not shown) is installed on the upper part thereof. The document cover 21 has a rotation axis (not shown) at the rear and can rotate upward. The MFP has an image sensor (not shown) below the document table, and moves the image scanner relative to the document supported by the document table to read the document.

[0011] The ADF 23 is installed on the upper left surface of the platen cover 21. The ADF 23 has an ADF cover 23a and an image scanner (not shown). The ADF cover 23a has a rotation axis (not shown) at its right end and can rotate upward. The ADF cover 23a can be positioned at the closed position shown in FIG. 1 and the open position where it rotates upward and is slightly inclined upward from the rotation axis. The ADF cover 23a in the open position supports the original document on its upper surface. The ADF 23 takes in the original document supported by the ADF cover 23a in the open position from an opening (not shown), relatively moves the original document with respect to the image scanner, reads the original document, and discharges the original document onto the upper surface of the platen cover 21.

[0012] The operation panel 12 has operation buttons such as a touch panel 41, a power button (not shown), and a numeric keypad (not shown). The operation panel 12 and the USB receptacle 43 are installed on the front side of the upper surface of the housing 11. The USB receptacle 43 is a receptacle conforming to the USB standard.

[0013] The paper feed trays 17 and 18 are installed vertically side by side and detachably at the lower side of the front surface of the housing 11. The paper discharge tray 19 is installed recessed inward with respect to the front surface of the housing 11. Further, a paper feed unit (not shown), an image forming unit 37 (FIG. 2), and a discharge unit (not shown) are installed inside the housing 11. The sheet supported by the paper feed tray 17 or the paper feed tray 18 is conveyed to the image forming unit 37 by the paper feed unit. The image forming unit 37 forms an image on the sheet. The discharge unit discharges the sheet on which the image has been formed to the paper discharge tray 19. It is assumed that the paper feed tray 17 has A4-sized sheets and the paper feed tray 18 has B5-sized sheets.

[0014] <Electrical Configuration of the MFP> Next, the electrical configuration of MFP 10 will be described using FIG. 2. In addition to the components shown in FIG. 1, MFP 10 also includes a CPU 32, RAM 33, ROM 34, NVRAM (non-volatile memory) 35, image forming unit 37, image reading unit 38, FAX communication unit 39, user interface 40, USB interface 42, network interface 44, document sensor, first sheet sensor, second sheet sensor, etc. Note that in FIG. 2, the document sensor, first sheet sensor, and second sheet sensor are collectively referred to as sensor 50. ROM 34 stores programs for executing processes such as shortcut generation processing and shortcut execution processing, which will be described later. CPU 32 controls each component connected via bus 31 in accordance with the programs read from ROM 34 while storing the processing results in RAM 33. NVRAM 35 stores shortcut information 351 (described later), tray information 352, and a change count counter value 353. The tray information 352 includes information that the size of the sheets in the paper feed tray 17 is A4 size and the size of the sheets in the paper feed tray 18 is B5 size. The change count counter value 353 is a value used in the shortcut update process described later.

[0015] The image forming unit 37 prints a color or monochrome image on a sheet by electrophotography, for example, according to a print job. The image forming unit 37 has four process cartridges corresponding to the four colors of black, cyan, magenta, and yellow, an exposure unit, a transfer roller, a fixing unit, etc. (not shown). Each process cartridge has a photosensitive drum, a developing roller, a toner storage chamber, etc. (not shown). The exposure unit forms an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum. The developing roller supplies toner to the electrostatic latent image to form a toner image. The transfer roller transfers the toner image to the sheet. The fixing unit thermally fixes the toner to the sheet.

[0016] The image reading unit 38 reads the image of the document using an image scanner under the document platen or an image scanner included in the ADF 23, and generates read data.

[0017] The FAX communication unit 39 sends and receives FAX data to and from other FAX communication devices via a connected telephone line (not shown). The user interface 40 displays various setting screens and the operating status of the device on a touch panel 41. It also outputs signals to the CPU 32 in response to user operations on the touch panel 41 and operation buttons. The USB interface 42 reads and writes data in accordance with the USB standard from and to a USB-compatible storage medium connected to a USB receptacle 43. An example of a USB-compatible storage medium is a USB memory. The network interface 44 performs, for example, wireless LAN communication, and communicates with PCs and servers (not shown) connected to the wireless LAN.

[0018] The document sensor detects whether or not a document is present in the opening of the ADF 23, for example, at predetermined time intervals, and when it detects that a document is present, it outputs a detection signal indicating that a document has been set to the CPU 32. The first sheet sensor and the second sheet sensor output detection signals to the CPU 32 according to the number of sheets remaining in the paper feed trays 17 and 18, respectively.

[0019] The printing function is, for example, a function of printing a print job transmitted from, for example, a PC via the network interface 44, or recording data read from a USB memory or the like via the USB interface 42, onto a sheet by the image forming unit 37. The copying function is, for example, a function of printing scanned data generated by the image reading unit 38 onto a sheet by the image forming unit 37. The scanning function is, for example, a function of transmitting scanned data generated by the image reading unit 38 to, for example, a PC or a server via the network interface 44, or writing the scanned data to a USB memory or the like via the USB interface 42. The fax receiving function is a function of printing fax received data received via the fax communication unit 39 onto a sheet by the image forming unit 37, transmitting the data to, for example, a PC via the network interface 44, or writing the data to a USB memory or the like via the USB interface 42. The fax sending function is, for example, a function of transmitting scanned data generated by the image reading unit 38, transmission data transmitted from, for example, a PC via the network interface 44, or recording data read from a USB memory or the like via the USB interface 42, via the fax communication unit 39.

[0020] The shortcut information 351 is information configured as a set of information including a "shortcut name," "function," and values ​​for multiple setting items. The CPU 32 creates shortcut information 351 in response to a user's operation on the touch panel 41 and stores it in the NVRAM 35 (an example of a "process for storing information used to control the image processing unit in memory, each corresponding to multiple setting items related to the control of the image processing unit, in response to a command received from the touch panel" and an example of a "shortcut registration process"). The "shortcut name" is a name given by the user to identify the shortcut. The "function" refers to the above-mentioned print function, copy function, scan function, fax sending function, fax receiving function, etc. The multiple setting items specifically include "size," "quality," "color," etc., and the specific items vary depending on the value of the "function." For example, if the value of the "function" is (copy), the setting items include "output size," "quality," "color," "number of copies," and "double-sided printing." For example, if the value of the "function" is (scan), the setting items include "scan size," "quality," "color," "enlargement / reduction," etc. The change count counter value 353 is information configured as a set of values ​​for the items "shortcut name" and "count value," and the "shortcut name" is associated with the "shortcut name" of the shortcut information 351. When a set of information of the shortcut information 351 is created, the value of the "count value" of the corresponding change count counter value 353 is set to an initial value.

[0021] Here, it is assumed that eight sets of information are included in the shortcut information 351. The values ​​of the "shortcut name" of the eight sets of information are (color copy of A4 original) (monochrome copy of 100 sheets) (fax to XX) (color original scan) (original scan to USB) (double-sided copy high quality) (print from USB) (print received fax).

[0022] The shortcut for (Color copy of A4 original) has a "Function" value of (Copy), a "Output size" value of (A4), a "Quality" value of (Beautiful), a "Color" value of (Color), a "Number of copies" value of (1), and a "Double-sided printing" value of (Yes). The shortcut for (100 monochrome copies) has a "Function" value of (Copy), a "Output Size" value of (B5), a "Quality" value of (Normal), a "Color" value of (Monochrome), a "Number of Copies" value of (100), and a "Double-Sided Printing" value of (None). The shortcut for (Fax to Mr. / Ms. XX) has a "Function" value of (Send Fax) and a "Destination" value of (Ms. / Ms. XX). The shortcut for (Scan color document) has a "Function" value of (Scan), a "Read size" value of (A4), a "Quality" value of (Bright), a "Color" value of (Color), a "Zoom" value of (None), and a "Destination" value of (Server). For the shortcut (Scan original to USB), the "Function" value is (Scan), the "Read size" value is (A4), the "Quality" value is (Bright), the "Color" value is (Color), the "Zoom" value is (None), and the "Destination" value is (USB memory). The shortcut for (High-quality double-sided copying) has a "Function" value of (Copy), a "Output size" value of (B5), a "Quality" value of (Beautiful), a "Color" value of (Color), a "Number of copies" value of (1), and a "Double-sided printing" value of (Yes). The shortcut for (Print from USB) has a "Function" value of (Print) and a "Destination" value of (USB memory). The shortcut for (Print received faxes) has a "Function" value of (Receive faxes) and an "Output" value of (Print).

[0023] <Shortcut generation process> Next, the shortcut generation process executed by the CPU 32 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 5. The CPU 32 starts the shortcut generation process when the power of the MFP 10 is turned on. First, the CPU 32 instructs the user interface 40 to display the main menu screen D1 shown in FIG. 5 on the touch panel 41. On the main menu screen D1, a "Copy" button, a "Scan" button, and a "Fax" button are displayed in an area D11. A "Shortcut" button D12 is also displayed. By selecting a button, the user can execute the function corresponding to the selected button. Note that when the user selects the "Shortcut" button D12, a list of shortcuts included in the shortcut information 351 is displayed. Here, it is assumed that the user does not select a button but places a document in the ADF 23 for copying.

[0024] The CPU 32 checks at predetermined time intervals whether it has received a detection signal output from the document sensor, and when it receives a detection signal from the document sensor (FIG. 3, S1), it determines which shortcuts to display from the information included in the shortcut information 351 based on the detection signal (S3). Because the detection signal is output from the document sensor, it determines which shortcuts require the operation of the image reading unit 38. Specifically, it determines that (A4 document color copy), (100-sheet monochrome copy), (FAX to Mr. / Ms. XX), (color document scan), (document scan to USB), and (double-sided copy, high quality) are shortcuts that require the operation of the image reading unit 38.

[0025] Next, CPU 32 extracts a specific setting item from the multiple setting items included in shortcut information 351 (S5). Here, because MFP 10 is equipped with a first sheet sensor and a second sheet sensor, "output size" is extracted as a specific setting item from the multiple setting items. Next, CPU 32 determines whether a sheet of the "output size" is present in order to determine whether the shortcut can be executed without error. First, based on the detection signal of the first sheet sensor, it determines whether an A4-sized sheet is present in paper feed tray 17 (S7). If it is determined that an A4-sized sheet is present (S7: YES), then it determines whether a B5-sized sheet is present in paper feed tray 18 based on the detection signal of the second sheet sensor (S8). If it is determined that a B5-sized sheet is present (S8: YES), display information indicating that all of the shortcuts identified in step S3 are executable is stored in RAM 33 (S12), and the process proceeds to step S9. On the other hand, if it is determined that there are no B5-sized sheets (S8: NO), display information indicating that shortcuts with an "output size" value of (A4) are executable and shortcuts with an "output size" value of (B5) are not executable is stored in RAM 33 (S10), and the process proceeds to step S9.

[0026] On the other hand, if it is determined that there are no A4 sheets (S7: NO), the CPU 32 next determines whether there are B5-sized sheets in the paper feed tray 18 based on the detection signal of the second sheet sensor (S11). If it is determined that there are B5-sized sheets (S11: YES), display information indicating that shortcuts with an "output size" value of (A4) are inoperable and shortcuts with an "output size" value of (B5) are operable is stored in the RAM 33 (S13), and the process proceeds to step S9. On the other hand, if it is determined that there are no B5-sized sheets (S11: NO), display information indicating that all shortcuts determined in step S3 are inoperable is stored in the RAM 33 (S15), and the process proceeds to step S9. In step S9, the CPU 32 generates UI (User Interface) screen data to be displayed on the touch panel 41 based on the display information stored in the RAM 33, transmits the UI screen data to the user interface 40 (S9), and ends the process. Upon receiving the UI screen data, the user interface 40 displays a screen based on the UI screen data on the touch panel 41.

[0027] For example, when step S15 is executed, the CPU 32 generates UI screen data for displaying the shortcut selection screen D2 shown in FIG. 5. In the case of step S15, there are no A4-sized sheets or B5-sized sheets, so on the shortcut selection screen D2, buttons D21, D22, and D26 corresponding to the shortcuts (A4 original color copy), (100-sheet monochrome copy), and (double-sided copy high-quality), whose "function" value is (copy), are displayed in gray to indicate that they are unavailable for selection, i.e., grayed out. Furthermore, buttons D23, D24, and D25 corresponding to the shortcuts (Fax to Mr. / Ms. XX), (Scan color original), (Scan original to USB), and (double-sided copy high-quality), which can be executed even without sheets, are displayed in black to indicate that they are available for selection. Also, a "Main Menu" button D27 is displayed.

[0028] Furthermore, for example, when step S13 is executed, the CPU 32 generates UI screen data for displaying the shortcut selection screen D3 shown in FIG. 5. The case of step S13 corresponds to a case where there are no A4-sized sheets but there are B5-sized sheets. Therefore, on the shortcut selection screen D3, a difference mark D311 is added to the button D31 corresponding to (A4 original color copy) for which the "output size" value is (A4) among the shortcuts for which the "function" value is (copy). Here, the difference mark D311 is an exclamation mark. Furthermore, among the shortcuts for which the "function" value is (copy), buttons D32 and D36 corresponding to (100-sheet monochrome copy) (double-sided copy high quality) for which the "output size" value is (B5) are displayed in black. Furthermore, buttons D33, D34, and D35 corresponding to (Fax to Mr. / Ms. XX), (Scan color original), and (Scan original to USB), which are shortcuts that can be executed even without sheets, are displayed in black. Also, a "Main Menu" button D37 is displayed.

[0029] The difference mark D311 is a mark indicating that the target shortcut can be executed by changing a part of the value of the shortcut information 351 related to the target shortcut. In this case, the shortcut can be executed by changing the value of "output size" of the target shortcut (color copy of A4 original) from (A4) to (B5). Therefore, the CPU 32 creates UI screen data in which the difference mark D311 is added to the button D31 corresponding to (color copy of A4 original). This allows the user to recognize that although copying cannot be performed at the preset "output size," copying can be performed by changing the value.

[0030] Next, the shortcut execution process executed by the CPU 32 when a user who wants to change the value of "output size" and make a copy in B5 size selects button D31 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0031] When button D31, which is a button with a difference mark, is selected, CPU 32 starts the shortcut execution process shown in FIG. 4. First, CPU 32 generates change UI screen data for displaying change UI screen D4 shown in FIG. 5 and outputs it to user interface 40 (S23). When user interface 40 receives the change UI screen data, it displays the change UI screen. On change UI screen D4, area D41 displays messages such as "Do you want to change the following items and execute?" and "Output paper size: A4 → B5," along with a "Change and execute" button and a "Cancel" button. In addition, a "Main menu" button D42 is displayed in the lower right corner of change UI screen D4.

[0032] Next, the CPU 32 determines whether the "Change and Execute" button has been selected (S25). If the "Change and Execute" button has been selected within a predetermined time, the CPU 32 determines that the "Change and Execute" button has been selected (S25: YES). When the CPU 32 determines that the "Change and Execute" button has been selected (S25: YES), the CPU 32 changes the value of "Output Size" to B5, executes the shortcut (S27), and terminates the process. Executing the shortcut means, in detail, that the CPU 32 sets the value of "Output Size" to (B5) and the values ​​of the other items to the values ​​related to (A4 Original Color Copy) included in the shortcut information 351, and executes a process to cause the image forming unit 37 to form an image using the scanned data generated by the image reading unit 38. By selecting the change UI screen D4, the user can execute a copy operation by changing only the "Output Size" of the shortcut information 351 that was previously registered. This allows the user to execute a copy operation more easily than by resetting all of the multiple copy-related items.

[0033] On the other hand, if it is determined that the "Change and execute" button was not selected (S25: NO), the CPU 32 instructs the user interface 40 to return to the shortcut selection screen D3 (FIG. 5) (S31) to allow the user to select a shortcut again, and ends the processing.

[0034] Next, the shortcut update process will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. When the CPU 32 executes step S27 of the shortcut execution process, it starts the shortcut update process for the executed shortcut. First, the CPU 32 determines whether the number of times the shortcut has been executed with a changed value is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, based on the change count counter value 353 (S63). If the CPU 32 determines that the value of the "count value" corresponding to the change count counter value 353 is equal to or greater than the predetermined number (S63: YES), it generates UI screen data for displaying the update UI screen D5 shown in FIG. 7 and outputs it to the user interface 40 (S65). Upon receiving the UI screen data, the user interface 40 displays the update UI screen D5 on the touch panel 41. The update UI screen D5 displays the messages "Do you want to update the 'A4 original color copy' setting?" and "Output paper size: A4 → B5," as well as a "Change" button and a "Don't change" button.

[0035] Next, it is determined whether the "Change" button has been selected (S67). If the "Change" button has been selected within a predetermined time, the CPU 32 determines that the "Change" button has been selected (S67: YES). If it determines that the "Change" button has been selected (S67: YES), the changes are saved in the RAM 33, which is the internal memory (S69). Specifically, information indicating that the value of "Output Size" is (B5) is stored in the RAM 33. Next, the value of the corresponding "Count Value" of the change count counter value 353 is reset (S71). Next, UI screen data for displaying the shortcut name change UI screen D6 shown in FIG. 7 is generated and output to the user interface 40 (S73). Upon receiving the UI screen data, the user interface 40 displays the shortcut name change UI screen D6 on the touch panel 41. The shortcut name change UI screen D6 displays a message saying, "Do you want to update the shortcut name of 'A4 Original Color Copy'?", a text box D61, a "Change" button, and a "Don't Change" button. 7 shows an example in which the value of "Shortcut name" in shortcut information 351, (A4 original color copy), is pre-entered and displayed in text box D61. A user who wants to change the value of "Shortcut name" operates touch panel 41 or the like to enter, for example, "B5 original color copy" in text box D61, and then selects the "Change" button.

[0036] Next, CPU 32 determines whether the "Change" button has been selected (S75). If the "Change" button has been selected within a predetermined time, CPU 32 determines that the "Change" button has been selected (S75: YES). If it determines that the "Change" button has been selected (S75: YES), the value of "Shortcut Name" related to the target shortcut is set to the value entered in text box D61, the value of "Output Size" is set to (B5) based on the information stored in step S69, and shortcut information 351 is updated (S77), and processing ends. On the other hand, if it determines that the "Change" button has not been selected (S75: NO), the value of "Output Size" related to the target shortcut is set to (B5), and shortcut information 351 is updated, and the value of "Shortcut Name" is not updated (S79), and processing ends. The user can easily update shortcut information 351 to frequently used values ​​for shortcuts that are frequently changed and used.

[0037] On the other hand, if it is determined that the value of the "count value" corresponding to the change count counter value 353 is not equal to or greater than the predetermined number (S63: NO), the value of the "count value" corresponding to the change count counter value 353 is incremented (S81), and the process proceeds to step S83. Also, if it is determined that the "Change" button on the update UI screen D5 has not been selected (S67: NO), the process proceeds to step S83. In step S83, the CPU 32 instructs the user interface 40 to display the main menu screen D1 (FIG. 5), and ends the process.

[0038] Here, MFP 10 is an example of an image processing device, image forming unit 37, image reading unit 38, and FAX communication unit 39 are examples of an image processing unit, and NVRAM 35 is an example of a memory. Also, step S9 is an example of "processing for displaying a shortcut on a touch panel," steps S5, S7, S8, S10, S11, S12, S13, and S15 are examples of extraction processing, step S23 is an example of "processing for displaying on a touch panel a screen prompting a user to select whether or not to use change information that is information different from information stored in memory corresponding to the extracted specific setting item," and step S27 is an example of control processing. Also, the first and second sheet sensors are examples of detectors, and paper feed trays 17 and 18 are examples of sheet support units.

[0039] According to the first embodiment described above, the following effects are achieved. (1) The user can easily execute copying by changing the value of the specific setting item "output size" among the shortcut items with the shortcut name (A4 color copy) preset in the shortcut information 351 from a sheet of size (A4) that does not have a sheet to a sheet of size (B5) that does have a sheet on the change UI screen D4.

[0040] (4) (5) In step S5, the CPU 32 extracts "output size," an item whose value can be detected using the first and second sheet sensors, as a specific setting item from among the items related to shortcuts. Furthermore, in steps S7, S8, and S11, the CPU 32 determines whether a shortcut can be executed without error using the value of "output size" based on the detection signals of the first and second sheet sensors. This allows the CPU 32 to add a difference mark D311 to shortcuts whose shortcut information 351 contains a value that is the size of a sheet not in the paper feed trays 17 and 18, and display the shortcut selection screen D3.

[0041] (8) When there is no sheet of size (A4) in the paper feed tray 17, which is the value of "output size," the CPU 32 displays a difference mark D311 on the button D31 corresponding to (A4 original color copy) for which the value of "output size" is (A4). This makes it easier for the user to recognize that a shortcut can be executed by changing the value of a specific setting item.

[0042] (9) In the shortcut update process, CPU 32 updates the value of shortcut information 351 for shortcuts that have been changed a predetermined number of times or more and executed. This allows the user to easily update the value of shortcut information 351 for shortcuts whose values ​​change frequently and use the updated shortcuts. (10) Also, in step S77 of the shortcut update process, CPU 32 accepts an update to the value of "shortcut name." This allows the user to easily update the value of "shortcut name" to an optimal value.

[0043] [Second embodiment] Next, the shortcut generation execution process of the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 8. The MFP 10 of the second embodiment does not have a first sheet sensor or a second sheet sensor, and the document sensor also detects the size of the document. In detail, the document sensor detects whether or not a document is present in the opening of the ADF 23, for example, at predetermined time intervals, and if a document is present, outputs a detection signal corresponding to A4 size or B5 size to the CPU 32. The other configurations are the same as those of the MFP 10 of the first embodiment, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0044] The CPU 32 starts the shortcut creation execution process when the power of the MFP 10 is turned on. First, the CPU 32 instructs the user interface 40 to display the main menu screen D1 shown in Fig. 5 on the touch panel 41. Here, it is assumed that the user has placed a B5-sized document in the ADF 23 to be scanned without selecting a button on the touch panel 41.

[0045] The CPU 32 checks at predetermined time intervals whether it has received a detection signal output from the document sensor. When it receives a detection signal from the document sensor (FIG. 8, S41), it determines, based on the detection signal, which shortcuts to display from the information included in the shortcut information 351, similar to step S3 (S43). Next, the CPU 32 extracts a specific setting item from the multiple setting items included in the shortcut information 351 (S45). Here, because the MFP 10 is equipped with a document sensor capable of detecting size, the CPU 32 extracts "read size" from the multiple setting items as the specific setting item. Next, the CPU 32 determines whether the document size is B5 based on the detection signal (S47). If it determines that the document size is B5 (S47: YES), it stores display information in the RAM 33 indicating that a difference mark should be added to shortcuts whose "read size" value is (A4) (S49), and proceeds to step S51. On the other hand, if it is determined that the document size is not B5 (S47: NO), display information indicating that a difference mark should be added to the shortcut whose "read size" value is (B5) is stored in RAM 33 (S50), and the process proceeds to step S51.

[0046] In step S51, the CPU 32 generates UI screen data to be displayed on the touch panel 41 based on the display information stored in the RAM 33, and transmits the generated data to the user interface 40 (S51). When the user interface 40 receives the UI screen data, it displays a UI screen based on the UI screen data on the touch panel 41. On the UI screen, buttons corresponding to each shortcut are displayed, similar to the shortcut selection screen D3. Also, based on the display information, difference marks are added to the corresponding buttons. For example, when step S49 is executed, difference marks are added to the "Scan Color Document" button and the "Scan Document to USB" button corresponding to the shortcuts (Scan Color Document) and (Scan Document to USB) whose "Read Size" value is (A4). Here, it is assumed that the user has selected the "Scan Color Document" button.

[0047] When the "Color Document Scan" button is selected, the CPU 32 generates change UI screen data and outputs it to the user interface 40 (S51). When the user interface 40 receives the change UI screen data, it displays a change UI screen. The change UI screen displays a "Change the following items and execute?" message and a "Scan size: A4 → B5" message, along with a "Change and execute" button and a "Execute without changes" button. Note that because the function of the shortcut is scanning, the CPU 32 determines that the shortcut can be executed without error even if the "Scan size" value remains at (A4), and therefore displays the "Execute without changes" button. Next, the CPU 32 determines whether the "Change and execute" button was selected (S53). If the "Change and execute" button was selected within a predetermined time, the CPU 32 determines that the "Change and execute" button was selected (S53: YES). If the CPU 32 determines that the "Change and execute" button was selected (S53: YES), the CPU 32 changes the value of the "Scan size" to B5, executes the shortcut (S55), and ends the processing. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "Change and execute" button was not selected (S53: NO), the shortcut is executed (S57) with the "reading size" value remaining as A4, and the process ends. Note that changing the "reading size" value to B5 and executing the shortcut means, in detail, that the CPU 32 sets the "reading size" value to (B5), sets the values ​​of the other items to the values ​​related to (color document scan) included in the shortcut information 351, and executes a process to transmit the read data generated by the image reading unit 38 to the network interface 44.

[0048] Here, the document sensor is an example of a detector, and the ADF 23 is an example of a document support unit. Also, step S51 is an example of "processing for displaying a shortcut on a touch panel," steps S45, S47, S49, and S50 are examples of extraction processing, step S51 is an example of "processing for displaying on a touch panel a screen prompting the user to select whether to use information stored in memory corresponding to the extracted specific setting item, or to use information different from the information stored in memory corresponding to the extracted specific setting item," and step S55 is an example of control processing.

[0049] According to the second embodiment described above, the following effects are achieved. (1) The user can easily perform scanning by changing the value of the specific setting item "Reading size" among the shortcut items with the shortcut name (Color document scan) pre-set in the shortcut information 351 from (A4) size to (B5) size on the change UI screen.

[0050] (2) (3) In step S45, the CPU 32 extracts, from among the shortcut-related items, "read size," an item whose value can be detected using the document sensor, as a specific setting item. Furthermore, in steps S47, S49, and S50, it determines, based on the detection signal of the document sensor, whether the value of "document size" corresponds to the size detected by the detection signal. As a result, on the UI screen, if the value of "read size" is (B5), the CPU 32 can add a difference mark to the button corresponding to the shortcut whose "read size" is (A4), and if the value of "read size" is not (B5), the CPU 32 can add a difference mark to the button corresponding to the shortcut whose "read size" is (B5). [Variations]

[0051] It goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various improvements and modifications are possible within the scope of the present invention. In the first embodiment, the MFP is described as having a first sheet sensor and a second sheet sensor, and thus, in step S5, the "output size" is designated as a specific setting item. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The specific setting items among the items in the shortcut information 351 may be stored in advance, for example, in the NVRAM 35. This allows the user to change the value of the specific setting item each time a shortcut is executed. In particular, in an MFP without a sensor, the user can check whether the value set in the shortcut information 351 matches the desired value for an item that cannot be detected using a sensor. The specific setting items may be stored in advance before shipping the MFP, or may be set by the user. For example, the CPU 32 may execute a setting acceptance process that displays a setting screen on the touch panel 41 displaying a message "Please select a specific setting item" along with buttons corresponding to multiple setting items, and then execute a storage process that stores the item corresponding to the button selected by the user in the setting acceptance process as a specific setting item in the NVRAM 35. This allows the user to freely store, as a specific setting item, any setting item they want to check when using a shortcut key.

[0052] In the first embodiment, the number of remaining sheets when copying was described as an example of "restricting the execution of image processing." However, this is not limiting. For example, if the MFP is configured to include a toner sensor that detects the amount of remaining toner in the toner storage chamber, when the remaining toner is low and printing, such as copying, is restricted, the "number of copies" may be a specific setting item. Also, when the remaining amount of toners other than black is high and the remaining amount of black toner is low, the "color" may be a specific setting item, and a difference mark may be displayed based on whether the color is (color) or (monochrome). Also, when the supplied power is limited, the "image quality" may be a specific setting item. Also, when a USB memory is not inserted, the "output destination" may be a specific setting item.

[0053] Also, step S1 has been described as processing based on detection in the ADF 23, but it may also be processing based on detection on the platen, or a configuration may be adopted in which both are detected.

[0054] Furthermore, although the first embodiment describes a configuration including a first sheet sensor and a second sheet sensor, and the second embodiment describes a configuration including a document sensor, the present invention is not limited to this. If the MFP is equipped with multiple sensors, all detectable items may be extracted as specific setting items, or only specific items may be extracted.

[0055] Although the shortcut selection screen D3 has been described as displaying a difference mark as an example of a different display mode, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the difference mark may be displayed in a different color, or may be displayed in a blinking manner.

[0056] Also, although it has been explained that the shortcut is executed when the "Change and execute" button is selected on the change UI screen D4, the shortcut may also be executed after the "Change and execute" button is selected and then, for example, an operation button (such as the start button) is pressed.

[0057] Although it has been described that the buttons D21, D22, and D26 are displayed in a grayed-out state on the shortcut selection screen D2, this is not intended to limit the display format. For example, the buttons D21, D22, and D26 may be displayed with a cross mark superimposed on them.

[0058] Although the example has been described with a CPP32, the present invention is not limited to this. It may be configured with multiple CPUs, or with multiple ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits). Furthermore, it may be configured with any combination of CPUs and ASICs.

[0059] Furthermore, although the MFP 10 has been described as printing by an electrophotographic method, it can also be applied to other image processing devices that print by, for example, an inkjet method. Furthermore, although the MFP 10 has been described as a multifunction device that has a printing function, a copying function, a scanning function, etc., it is not limited to these, and can also be applied to an image processing device that has at least one of these functions. [Explanation of symbols]

[0060] 10 MFP 11. Housing 32 CPU 33 RAM 34 ROM 35 NVRAM 37 Image forming unit 38 Image reading unit 39 Fax Communication Department 41 Touch Panel 50 sensors

Claims

1. Touch panel and A control unit; Memory and An image processing device comprising: The control unit shortcut information including setting values ​​used for processing including printing can be stored in the memory; A shortcut image corresponding to the shortcut information can be displayed on the touch panel, an operation to select a shortcut image displayed on the touch panel is accepted via the touch panel, and when the number of remaining sheets is such that printing needs to be limited, a screen for accepting an operation to instruct a change of setting values ​​relating to sheets among setting values ​​included in shortcut information corresponding to the selected shortcut image can be displayed on the touch panel; An image processing device characterized in that, in response to receiving an operation via the touch panel to instruct a change to the setting value, the image processing device is capable of executing processing including printing using shortcut information corresponding to the selected shortcut image using the changed setting value.

2. Touch panel and A control unit; Memory and An image processing device comprising: The control unit shortcut information including setting values ​​used for processing including printing can be stored in the memory; A shortcut image corresponding to the shortcut information can be displayed on the touch panel, an operation to select a shortcut image displayed on the touch panel is accepted via the touch panel, and when the remaining amount of image forming material is such that printing needs to be limited, a screen for accepting an operation to instruct a change of a setting value related to the image forming material among setting values ​​included in shortcut information corresponding to the selected shortcut image can be displayed on the touch panel; An image processing device characterized in that, in response to receiving an operation via the touch panel to instruct a change to the setting value, the image processing device is capable of executing processing including printing using shortcut information corresponding to the selected shortcut image using the changed setting value.

3. Touch panel and A control unit; Memory and An image processing device comprising: The control unit shortcut information including setting values ​​used for processing including printing can be stored in the memory; A shortcut image corresponding to the shortcut information can be displayed on the touch panel, an operation to select a shortcut image displayed on the touch panel is accepted via the touch panel, and when the remaining amount of image forming material of a specific color is such that printing needs to be limited, a screen for accepting an operation to instruct a change of a setting value for the image forming material of the specific color among setting values ​​included in shortcut information corresponding to the selected shortcut image is displayed on the touch panel; An image processing device characterized in that, in response to receiving an operation via the touch panel to instruct a change to the setting value, the image processing device is capable of executing processing including printing using shortcut information corresponding to the selected shortcut image using the changed setting value.

4. Touch panel and A control unit; Memory and An image processing device comprising: The control unit shortcut information including setting values ​​used for processing including printing can be stored in the memory; A shortcut image corresponding to the shortcut information can be displayed on the touch panel, an operation to select a shortcut image displayed on the touch panel is accepted via the touch panel, and when a setting value relating to image quality among the setting values ​​included in shortcut information corresponding to the selected shortcut image is a setting value that requires a printing restriction, a screen for accepting an operation to instruct a change of the setting value relating to image quality among the setting values ​​included in the shortcut information corresponding to the selected shortcut image is displayed on the touch panel; An image processing device characterized in that, in response to receiving an operation via the touch panel to instruct a change to the setting value, the image processing device is capable of executing processing including printing using shortcut information corresponding to the selected shortcut image using the changed setting value.

5. Touch panel and A control unit; Memory and An image processing device comprising: The control unit shortcut information including setting values ​​used for processing including printing can be stored in the memory; A shortcut image corresponding to the shortcut information can be displayed on the touch panel, An operation to select a shortcut image displayed on the touch panel is accepted via the touch panel, and when a storage medium is not attached to the image processing device and therefore it is necessary to restrict the output of image data to the storage medium, a screen for accepting an operation to instruct a change of a setting value, among setting values ​​included in shortcut information corresponding to the selected shortcut image, related to output to the storage medium, can be displayed on the touch panel; An image processing device characterized in that, in response to receiving an operation via the touch panel to instruct a change to the setting value, it is possible to execute processing including outputting image data to a storage medium using shortcut information corresponding to the selected shortcut image using the changed setting value.

6. Touch panel and A control unit; Memory and An image processing device comprising: The control unit shortcut information including setting values ​​used for processing including printing can be stored in the memory; A shortcut image corresponding to the shortcut information can be displayed on the touch panel, An operation to select a shortcut image displayed on the touch panel is accepted via the touch panel, and when a setting value included in shortcut information corresponding to the selected shortcut image, which relates to output to a storage medium attached to the image processing device, is a setting value that requires restriction on image data output to the storage medium, a screen for accepting an operation to instruct a change of the setting value included in the shortcut information corresponding to the selected shortcut image, which relates to output to the storage medium, can be displayed on the touch panel; An image processing device characterized in that, in response to receiving an operation via the touch panel to instruct a change to the setting value, it is possible to execute processing including outputting image data to the storage medium using shortcut information corresponding to the selected shortcut image using the changed setting value.

7. The control unit displaying on the touch panel a screen including an operator indicating approval for using the change information as a screen for receiving an instruction to change the setting value; An image processing device as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that after displaying a screen for accepting an operation to instruct a change of the setting value, in response to accepting an operation on the operator via the touch panel, a process including printing using shortcut information corresponding to the selected shortcut image is executed using the changed setting value.

8. The control unit displaying on the touch panel a screen including an operator indicating approval for using the change information as a screen for receiving an instruction to change the setting value; 7. The image processing device of claim 5, wherein after displaying a screen for accepting an operation to instruct a change to the setting value, in response to accepting an operation on the operator via the touch panel, a process including outputting image data to the storage medium using shortcut information corresponding to the selected shortcut image is executed using the changed setting value.

9. The control unit displaying on the touch panel a screen including an operator indicating approval for using the change information as a screen for receiving an instruction to change the setting value; An image processing device as described in any one of claims 1 to 4 and claim 7, characterized in that after displaying a screen for accepting an operation to instruct a change to the setting value, in response to accepting an operation on the operator via the touch panel, it is possible to execute processing including printing by an electrophotographic method using shortcut information corresponding to the selected shortcut image using the changed setting value.

10. The control unit displaying on the touch panel a screen including an operator indicating approval for using the change information as a screen for receiving an instruction to change the setting value; An image processing device as described in any one of claims 1 to 4 and claim 7, characterized in that after displaying a screen for accepting an operation to instruct a change of the setting value, in response to accepting an operation on the operator via the touch panel, it is possible to execute a process including printing by inkjet method using shortcut information corresponding to the selected shortcut image using the changed setting value.

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