Processing device, configuration system, configuration method, and configuration program

Abstract

To suppress unintended (erroneous) operation when automating, using RPA, an operation performed on a setting screen displayed by a web browser.SOLUTION: A processing apparatus 100 includes: a providing unit for providing a setting screen G to set one or more items related to the processing apparatus 100; and a setting unit for setting one or more items in response to operation performed on the setting screen G. The setting screen G includes: a first setting screen for manual operation; and a second setting screen for receiving operation automated by RPA (Robotic Process Automation).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

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[0005]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a processing device, a setting system including the processing device and an external device that displays a setting screen of the processing device, a setting method for the processing device, and a setting program.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, Robotic Process Automation (RPA) software (hereinafter referred to as "RPA") has attracted attention for automating office work using a personal computer (PC). RPA is a technology that records human operations on a PC and realizes automation of the operations by re-executing the operations. Since the operations are automated, the same operations can be repeated without a person having to perform the operations again.

[0003] As an example of automation by RPA, it is known to automate data processing and operations on web pages displayed by a web browser using RPA. When automating data processing and operations on a web page using RPA, it is necessary to pre-register identifiers (ID (Identifier), XPATH (XML Path Language), Name, etc.) of elements (characters, images, buttons, tables, input fields, etc.) within the web page with RPA. However, the work of registering identifiers of elements within a web page has been laborious and problematic for humans.

[0004] In contrast, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2021-43479 discloses a technique for simplifying the work of pre-registering identifiers of elements within a web page with RPA.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005] ​​​​​​​​​

[0006] The technology disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-43479 simplifies the pre-registration work required when automating data processing and operations on web pages displayed by a web browser using RPA. However, when automating operations performed on a settings screen displayed by a web browser using RPA, a new problem arises: because the settings screen is configured to be easy for humans to use, even if the automated operation replicates a human operation, unintended operations (errors) may occur.

[0007] One of the purposes of this disclosure is to prevent unintended operations (errors) from occurring when operations performed on a settings screen displayed by a web browser are automated using RPA. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A processing device according to a certain aspect of this disclosure includes a providing unit that provides a setting screen for setting one or more items relating to the processing device, and a setting unit that sets one or more items in response to an operation on the setting screen. The setting screen includes a first setting screen for accepting operations by a human and a second setting screen for accepting automated operations by RPA.

[0009] Preferably, the processing apparatus includes an image processing apparatus.

[0010] Preferably, the first settings screen includes an element for switching to the second settings screen. The service provider provides the second settings screen in response to an operation on the elements of the first settings screen.

[0011] Preferably, the second settings screen consists of a single hierarchical structure.

[0012] Preferably, the first settings screen is composed of multiple layers.

[0013] Preferably, one or more items include multiple items. The first settings screen consists of multiple levels, each displaying multiple items, while the second settings screen consists of a single level, each displaying multiple items.

[0014] Preferably, one or more items include an item in which the user selects one or more options from a set of multiple options. The multiple options include a first option relating to currently available functions and a second option relating to functions that are not currently available but can be added. The first settings screen displays the first option but not the second option. The second settings screen displays both the first and second options.

[0015] Preferably, the second settings screen has fewer displays to assist with the setting operation than the first settings screen.

[0016] Preferably, the second setting screen has multiple types. The processing device further includes a receiving unit that receives a specification of the type of second setting screen to be provided from among the multiple types.

[0017] A configuration system according to other aspects of this disclosure comprises the above-described processing unit and an external device that displays the configuration screen of the processing unit.

[0018] A method for configuring a processing device according to other aspects of this disclosure comprises the steps of providing a configuration screen for configuring one or more items relating to the processing device, and configuring one or more items in response to an operation on the configuration screen. The configuration screen includes a first configuration screen for accepting human operation and a second configuration screen for accepting automated operation by RPA.

[0019] A configuration program that follows other aspects of this disclosure causes a computer to perform the configuration method described above. [Effects of the Invention]

[0020] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to suppress an unintended operation (erroneous operation) from being performed when an operation performed on a certain setting screen displayed by a web browser is automated by RPA.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing a setting system in Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] It is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a processing device in Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] It is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an external device in Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] It is a diagram showing an example of a first setting screen in Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] It is a diagram showing an example of a second setting screen in Embodiment 1. <000已0093>It is a diagram for explaining the outline of setting processing by a processing device in Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] It is a flowchart showing a part of the procedure of setting processing by a processing device in Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] L>It is a flowchart showing the remaining part of the procedure of setting processing by a processing device in Embodiment 1. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing a first modification example of the second setting screen in Embodiment 1. [Figure 10] It is a diagram showing a second modification example of the second setting screen in Embodiment 1. [Figure 11] It is a diagram for explaining the outline of setting processing by a processing device in Embodiment 2. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing an example of a conversion table in Embodiment 2. [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing an example of a second setting screen in Embodiment 2. [Figure 14] It is a diagram showing another example of the second setting screen in Embodiment 2.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0022] Hereinafter, embodiments and modifications according to the present disclosure will be described while referring to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts and components are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof will not be repeated. Note that the embodiments and modifications described below may be selectively combined as appropriate.

[0023] [Embodiment 1] [A. Setting System]

[0024] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the configuration of the setting system in Embodiment 1 will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the setting system in Embodiment 1.

[0025] The setting system 1 in Embodiment 1 includes a processing device 100 and an external device 500 that displays a setting screen G for setting one or more items related to the processing device 100. The processing device 100 and the external device 500 are configured to be communicable with each other. As an example, the processing device 100 and the external device 500 communicate with each other via a network 300.

[0026] The processing device 100 is a device that provides a setting screen G that can be displayed by a web browser 532 to the external device 500 and enables setting in response to an operation on the setting screen G displayed on the external device 500. For example, the processing device 100 is a device used in an office, a device used in a factory, a household appliance, or a communication device such as a router. In the present embodiment, an image processing device that forms an image on paper by an electrophotographic method is adopted as the processing device 100.

[0027] The external device 500 is a general-purpose computer equipped with a display device 550. The external device 500 is equipped with a web browser 532 and RPA software 533 (hereinafter referred to as "RPA533"). The display device 550 displays the settings screen G provided by the processing device 100 via the web browser 532. RPA533 is software that automates operations by recording operations on the settings screen G and re-executing the recorded operations.

[0028] The settings screen G includes a first settings screen for accepting human input and a second settings screen for accepting automated operations by RPA533. One or more items related to the processing unit 100 can be set from either the first or second settings screen. The first settings screen is configured for ease of human operation. In contrast, the second settings screen is configured for easy recording of operations. This is because the second settings screen also functions as a screen for registering operations to be automated by RPA533 to the external device 500. The external device 500 records (registers) human operations on the second settings screen and re-executes those operations when instructed to do so.

[0029] Operations on the first settings screen, which is designed for human operation, can be difficult to record. Therefore, when operations on the first settings screen are automated using RPA533, there is a possibility of unintended operations (errors). In contrast, the second settings screen is designed to be easy to record. Therefore, when operations on the second settings screen are automated using RPA533, it is possible to suppress unintended operations (errors).

[0030] The setting system 1 may include multiple external devices that provide the setting screen G via the processing unit 100.

[0031] Figure 2 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the processing unit in Embodiment 1. Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the processing unit 100 includes a control unit 10, an image forming unit 30, a fuser unit 40, a scanner 50, an operation panel 60, a communication interface 70, a paper feed tray 81, a transport roller 82, a paper output tray 83, a transport path 27, and a bus 90. The control unit 10, the image forming unit 30, the fuser unit 40, the scanner 50, the operation panel 60, and the communication interface 70 are connected by the bus 90.

[0032] The control unit 10 includes a processor 11, memory 12, and storage 13. The processor 11 is composed of, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit). The memory 12 is composed of, for example, a volatile storage device such as DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) or SRAM (Static Random Access Memory). The storage 13 is composed of, for example, a non-volatile storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), or flash memory.

[0033] The storage 13 stores a program 131, a group of screen elements 132, and main unit information 133. The program 131 includes computer-readable instructions for controlling the processing unit 100. The program 131 includes a screen creation program (a so-called web server) for creating a setting screen G based on the group of screen elements 132 and the main unit information 133, and for providing the setting screen G to an external device 500. The program 131 is an example of a "setting program" in this disclosure. The setting program may be installed on the processing unit 100 from a storage medium such as a memory card, or it may be downloaded from a distribution server and installed on the processing unit 100.

[0034] Program 131 may be provided not as a standalone program, but incorporated as part of any other program. In this case, processing according to this embodiment is realized in cooperation with the other program. Even if a program does not include such a partial module, it does not deviate from the spirit of the processing unit 100 according to this embodiment. Furthermore, some or all of the functions provided by program 131 may be implemented by dedicated hardware.

[0035] The processor 11 controls each part of the processing unit 100 by executing the program 131. For example, the processor 11 operates the image forming unit 30, the transport roller 82, and the fixing unit 40 based on the image data to form an image on the paper. The image data may be image data generated by the scanner 50, or image data received from a device that can communicate with the processing unit 100 (for example, an external device 500).

[0036] The screen element group 132 includes elements that constitute the settings screen G. The main unit information 133 includes information indicating the optional configuration of the processing unit 100 (for example, information that it has a scanner function or information that it has a fax function).

[0037] The image forming unit 30 applies toner (colorant) to paper supplied from the paper feed tray 81 to form an image. The image forming unit 30 includes an intermediate transfer belt 31, an image forming unit 32, and a transfer roller 33. The intermediate transfer belt 31 is an endless, strip-shaped member that is stretched around a plurality of rollers and moves in a circular motion. The image forming unit 32 is positioned along the intermediate transfer belt 31 and forms toner images of each color, Y (yellow), M (magenta), C (cyan), and K (black), on the intermediate transfer belt 31 based on image data. As the paper passes through the nip formed between the intermediate transfer belt 31 and the transfer roller 33, the toner image is transferred to the paper and an image is formed.

[0038] The fuser unit 40 heats and pressurizes the paper onto which the toner image has been transferred to fix the toner image to the paper. The fuser unit 40 includes a pair of rollers consisting of a heating roller and a pressurizing roller that hold the paper. The paper on which the toner image has been fixed is transported by the transport roller 82 and discharged into the output tray 83.

[0039] The scanner 50 includes an optical system such as a light source and a reflector, and an image sensor. It reads an image of paper being transported along a predetermined transport path or placed on a platen glass, and generates bitmap image data for each color: R (red), G (green), and B (blue).

[0040] The operation panel 60 includes a display device such as a liquid crystal display and an input device such as a touch panel superimposed on the screen of the display device. The operation panel 60 displays various information such as the operating status and processing results of the processing device 100, and converts input operations into signals and outputs them to the processor 11.

[0041] The communication interface 70 is comprised of a network card or the like. The communication interface 70 is connected to a communication network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) and transmits and receives information with devices on the communication network (e.g., external device 500). In one scenario, the processor 11 receives an instruction from the external device 500 to provide the setting screen G via the communication interface 70. In another scenario, the processor 11 provides the setting screen G to the external device 500 via the communication interface 70. In yet another scenario, the processor 11 receives an operation signal from the external device 500 via the communication interface 70 that corresponds to an operation on the setting screen G.

[0042] The paper feed tray 81 holds paper before image formation. The transport roller 82 rotates while gripping a single sheet of paper, transporting the paper along the transport path 27. The paper with the formed image is placed on the output tray 83.

[0043] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an external device in Embodiment 1. The external device 500 includes a processor 510, a memory 520, a storage 530, an input device 540, a display device 550, and a communication interface 560. The processor 510, the memory 520, the storage 530, the input device 540, the display device 550, and the communication interface 560 are connected by a bus 590.

[0044] The processor 510 is composed of, for example, a CPU or an MPU. The memory 520 is composed of a volatile storage device such as a DRAM or an SRAM. The storage 530 is composed of a non-volatile storage device such as an HDD, an SSD, or a flash memory.

[0045] The storage 530 stores a web browser 532, an RPA 533, and a program for controlling each part of the external device 500.

[0046] The input device 540 (for example, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch sensor, etc.) receives an operation on the setting screen G displayed on the display device 550 and outputs an operation signal corresponding to the operation to the processor 510. The display device 550 (for example, a display) displays the setting screen G received from the processing device 100.

[0047] The communication interface 560 is connected to a communication network such as a LAN and transmits and receives information to and from devices on the communication network (for example, the processing device 100, etc.). In one aspect, the processor 510 transmits an instruction to provide the setting screen G to the processing device 100 via the communication interface 560. In another aspect, the processor 510 receives the setting screen G from the processing device 100 via the communication interface 560. In another aspect, the processor 510 transmits an operation signal corresponding to an operation on the setting screen G to the processing device 100 via the communication interface 560.

[0048] <B. Setting Screen> Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the settings screen G (first settings screen and second settings screen) in Embodiment 1 will be described.

[0049] Figure 4 shows an example of the first setting screen in Embodiment 1. The first setting screen GP is created based on the screen element group 132 and the main unit information 133 and is stored in the storage 13 of the processing unit 100. When the processing unit 100 receives a request from the external device 500 to provide a setting screen, it provides the first setting screen GP to the external device 500. The first setting screen GP is displayed on the display device 550 of the external device 500.

[0050] The first setting screen GP is a setting screen that accepts user input. The first setting screen GP consists of multiple layers. The first layer screen includes one or more items related to the mode reset function among the items related to the processing unit 100. The second layer screen includes one or more items related to the system auto-reset function among the items related to the processing unit 100. The third layer screen includes one or more items related to the auto-reset function among the items related to the processing unit 100. When tab P8a is clicked, the first layer screen of the first setting screen GP is displayed on the display device 550. When tab P8b is clicked, the second layer screen of the first setting screen GP is displayed on the display device 550. When tab P8c is clicked, the third layer screen of the first setting screen GP is displayed on the display device 550.

[0051] In the example shown in Figure 4, the second-level screen of the first settings screen GP is displayed on the display device 550. "System auto-reset function," "System auto-reset time," and "Screen to display after reset" in Figure 4 are examples of one or more items related to the system auto-reset function. Also, "Screen to display after reset" in Figure 4 is an example of an item in which one or more options are selected from multiple options. The multiple options include first-level options related to currently available functions (for example, "Copy," "Scan," and "Web Browser" in Figure 4) and second-level options related to functions that are not currently available but can be added (for example, "FAX," etc.). The first settings screen GP displays the first-level options related to currently available functions (for example, "Copy," "Scan," and "Web Browser" in Figure 4), but does not display the second-level options related to functions that are not currently available but can be added (for example, "FAX," etc.).

[0052] The first settings screen GP uses a user interface designed to improve operability, as an element for setting one or more items related to the processing unit 100, making it easier for people to operate. The user interface designed to improve operability includes, for example, at least one of a slide switch, an increase / decrease button, and a pull-down menu.

[0053] In the first setting screen GP shown in Figure 4, a slide switch P2 is used to set the on / off state of the system auto-reset function, an increment / decrement button P3 is used to set the system auto-reset time, and a pull-down menu P4 is used to set the screen to be displayed after the reset.

[0054] The slide switch P2 is a user interface that switches a function on and off in response to a sliding operation on the switch. When the slide switch P2 is used as the element for switching a function on and off, the function can be switched on and off simply by sliding the switch, thus improving usability.

[0055] The increase / decrease button P3 is a user interface that accepts numerical input in response to clicks on the increase / decrease button P3. The increase / decrease button P3 includes a first button P3a for increasing the value and a second button P3b for decreasing the value. When the increase / decrease button P3 is used as an element for inputting numerical values, it eliminates the need to switch from the mouse to the keyboard and manually input the values, thus improving usability.

[0056] The pull-down menu P4 is a user interface for selecting one or more options from multiple choices. As mentioned above, the multiple choices include a first choice regarding currently available functions and a second choice regarding functions that are not currently available but can be added. However, only the first choice is displayed on the first settings screen GP. Therefore, even people unfamiliar with settings operations can use it without confusion.

[0057] Since the options are only visible when the pull-down menu P4 is open, if the pull-down menu P4 is used as an element for selecting one or more options from multiple options, the amount of information that is always displayed on the first settings screen GP is reduced. As a result, scrolling is reduced and usability is improved.

[0058] The first setting screen GP further includes button P1 and button P9. Button P1 is an example of an element for switching the first setting screen GP to the second setting screen GQ shown in Figure 5. When button P1 is operated (for example, clicked), the second setting screen GQ is displayed on the display device 550 instead of the first setting screen GP. Note that the element for switching the first setting screen GP to the second setting screen GQ may also be a tab or a switch.

[0059] Button P9 is an element for applying the items set on the first setting screen GP to the processing unit 100. When button P9 is clicked, the processing unit 100 sets the items set on the first setting screen GP.

[0060] Furthermore, to ensure that even those unfamiliar with the settings process can perform the settings without difficulty, the first settings screen GP may include displays to assist with the settings process. These displays may include, for example, at least one of the following: a description of a setting item, an illustration of a setting item, a description of an operation, and an illustration of an operation. These displays may always be displayed on the first settings screen GP, ​​or they may only be displayed when a specific operation (for example, clicking a specific button) is performed.

[0061] Furthermore, the first settings screen GP may also include a button for opening a pop-up window. The pop-up window may include elements for setting some items related to the processing unit 100 (e.g., a slide switch, increase / decrease buttons, a pull-down menu, etc.). By using a pop-up window, the amount of information that is always displayed on the first settings screen GP is reduced. As a result, scrolling operations are reduced and usability is improved.

[0062] Figure 5 shows an example of the second setting screen in Embodiment 1. The second setting screen GQ is created based on the screen element group 132 and the main unit information 133 and stored in the storage 13 of the processing unit 100. When the processing unit 100 receives a command to switch to the second setting screen GQ, it provides the second setting screen GQ to the external device 500. For example, when the processing unit 100 receives an operation signal from the external device 500 indicating that the button P1 shown in Figure 4 has been clicked, it determines that it has received a command to switch to the second setting screen GQ. The second setting screen GQ is displayed on the display device 550 of the external device 500.

[0063] The second settings screen GQ is a settings screen for accepting automated operations by RPA. The second settings screen GQ is also composed of multiple layers. The first-layer screen includes one or more items related to the mode reset function among the items related to the processing unit 100. The second-layer screen includes one or more items related to the system auto-reset function among the items related to the processing unit 100. The third-layer screen includes one or more items related to the auto-reset function among the items related to the processing unit 100. When tab Q8a is clicked, the first-layer screen of the second settings screen GQ is displayed on the display device 550. When tab Q8b is clicked, the second-layer screen of the second settings screen GQ is displayed on the display device 550. When tab Q8c is clicked, the third-layer screen of the second settings screen GQ is displayed on the display device 550.

[0064] In the example shown in Figure 5, the second-level screen of the second settings screen GQ is displayed on the display device 550. "System auto-reset function," "System auto-reset time," and "Screen to display after reset" in Figure 5 are examples of one or more items related to the system auto-reset function. Also, "Screen to display after reset" in Figure 5 is an example of an item in which one or more options are selected from multiple options. The multiple options include first-level options related to currently available functions (for example, "Copy," "Scan," and "Web Browser" in Figure 5) and second-level options related to functions that are not currently available but can be added (for example, "FAX," etc.). The second settings screen GQ displays the first-level options related to currently available functions (for example, "Copy," "Scan," and "Web Browser" in Figure 5), and does not display the second-level options related to functions that are not currently available but can be added (for example, "FAX," etc.).

[0065] In the second settings screen GQ, a user interface that facilitates recording operations is used as an element for setting one or more items related to the processing unit 100, in order to facilitate recording operations. The user interface that facilitates recording operations includes, for example, at least one of radio buttons, checkboxes, and text boxes.

[0066] In the second settings screen GQ shown in Figure 5, radio button Q2 is used to set whether the system auto-reset function is on or off, text box Q3 is used to set the system auto-reset time, and radio button Q4 is used to set the screen to be displayed after the reset.

[0067] Radio buttons Q2 and Q4 are user interfaces for selecting one option from multiple choices. With radio buttons, the options are always displayed on the screen, and an option can be selected by clicking the corresponding button or text string. Checkboxes are user interfaces for selecting two or more options from several choices. With checkboxes, the options are always displayed on the screen, and an option can be selected by clicking the corresponding button or text string. Text box Q3 is a user interface that accepts numerical input in response to keyboard input.

[0068] The user interface operations used on the first settings screen GP can be difficult to record and may not be suitable for automation. For example, the operation of the slide switch P2 involves pressing and holding the switch while sliding it, which is difficult to record. Also, when inputting values ​​using the increase / decrease button P3, the number of operations tends to increase, making the operation of the increase / decrease button P3 difficult to record. Furthermore, the screen layout differs depending on whether the pull-down menu P4 is open or closed, making the operation of the pull-down menu P4 difficult to record.

[0069] In contrast, radio buttons Q2 and Q4 do not change the screen layout like pull-down menu P4. Similarly, checkboxes do not change the screen layout like pull-down menu P4. Furthermore, text box Q3 only requires recording keyboard input. Therefore, operations on radio buttons Q2 and Q4, checkboxes, and text box Q3 are easy to record and suitable for automation.

[0070] The second settings screen GQ further includes buttons Q1, Q7, and Q9. Buttons Q1 and Q7 are examples of elements for switching the second settings screen GQ to the first settings screen GP shown in Figure 4. When button Q1 or button Q7 is clicked, the first settings screen GP is displayed on the display device 550 instead of the second settings screen GQ. Note that the elements for switching the second settings screen GQ to the first settings screen GP may also be tabs or switches.

[0071] Button Q9 is an element for applying the items set on the second settings screen GQ to the processing unit 100. When button Q9 is clicked, the processing unit 100 sets the items set on the second settings screen GQ.

[0072] In addition, in order to record the operations to be automated in the external device 500, those who perform the operations to be automated using the second setting screen GQ are often familiar with the setting operations of the processing device 100. Therefore, on the second setting screen GQ, the display for assisting the setting operations may be reduced compared to the first setting screen GP. Also, by reducing the display for assisting the setting operations compared to the first setting screen GP, the second setting screen GQ may be configured with fewer hierarchies than the first setting screen GP.

[0073] <C. Setting Process> Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, the setting process by the processing device 100 will be described. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the setting process by the processing device in Embodiment 1.

[0074] The processing device 100 includes a providing unit 111, a setting unit 112, and a storage 13. The providing unit 111 and the setting unit 112 are realized by the processor 11 executing the program 131.

[0075] The provisioning unit 111 provides a setting screen G for setting one or more items related to the processing unit 100. More specifically, when the provisioning unit 111 receives a request from the external device 500 to provide a setting screen G (screen request), it creates a first setting screen GP based on the screen element group 132 and the main unit information 133, and provides the first setting screen GP to the external device 500. Furthermore, when the provisioning unit 111 receives a request from the external device 500 to switch to a second setting screen GQ (for example, when button P1 is clicked), it creates a second setting screen GQ based on the screen element group 132 and the main unit information 133, and provides the second setting screen GQ to the external device 500. Furthermore, when the provisioning unit 111 receives a request from the external device 500 to switch to a first setting screen GP (for example, when button Q1 or button Q7 is clicked), it creates a first setting screen GP based on the screen element group 132 and the main unit information 133, and provides the first setting screen GP to the external device 500. Furthermore, when the supply unit 111 receives a hierarchical switching instruction from the external device 500, it creates a screen corresponding to the hierarchical level indicated by the switching instruction based on the screen element group 132 and the main unit information 133, and provides the created screen to the external device 500.

[0076] The setting unit 112 sets one or more items that have been set on the setting screen G when a setting operation is performed. More specifically, when button P9 is clicked, the processing unit 100 sets the items that have been set on the first setting screen GP. Also, when button Q9 is clicked, the processing unit 100 sets the items that have been set on the second setting screen GQ.

[0077] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing a portion of the setting process procedure performed by the processing unit in Embodiment 1. Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the remaining portion of the setting process procedure performed by the processing unit in Embodiment 1. The setting process is performed by the processor 11.

[0078] In step S1, the processor 11 determines whether or not it has received a request to provide the settings screen. The processor 11 determines that it has received a request to provide the settings screen if a login has been performed on the web page indicated by a predetermined URL (Uniform Resource Locator). If the request to provide the settings screen has been received (YES in step S1), the processor 11 proceeds to step S2.

[0079] In step S2, the processor 11 provides the first setting screen GP to the external device 500. As a result, the first setting screen GP is displayed on the display device 550 of the external device 500.

[0080] In step S3, the processor 11 determines whether or not it has received an instruction to switch to the second setting screen GQ. The processor 11 determines that it has received an instruction to switch to the second setting screen GQ if it receives a signal from the external device 500 indicating that button P1 on the first setting screen GP has been clicked. If the instruction to switch to the second setting screen GQ has been received (YES in step S3), the processor 11 proceeds to step S4. On the other hand, if the instruction to switch to the second setting screen GQ has not been received (NO in step S3), the processor 11 proceeds to step S10.

[0081] In step S4, the processor 11 provides the second setting screen GQ to the external device 500. As a result, the second setting screen GQ is displayed on the display device 550 of the external device 500.

[0082] In step S5, the processor 11 determines whether or not it has received a hierarchy switching instruction. The processor 11 determines that it has received a hierarchy switching instruction if it receives a signal from the external device 500 indicating that a tab in the second setting screen GQ (for example, tab Q8a, tab Q8b, tab Q8c, etc.) has been clicked. If the hierarchy switching instruction has been received (YES in step S5), the processor 11 proceeds to step S6. On the other hand, if the hierarchy switching instruction has not been received (NO in step S5), the processor 11 proceeds to step S7.

[0083] In step S6, the processor 11 provides the external device 500 with a second setting screen GQ corresponding to the tab indicated by the switching instruction received in step S5.

[0084] In step S7, the processor 11 determines whether or not a setting operation has been accepted. The processor 11 determines that a setting operation has been accepted if it receives a signal from the external device 500 indicating that button Q9 in the second setting screen GQ has been clicked. If a setting operation has been accepted (YES in step S7), the processor 11 proceeds to step S8. On the other hand, if a setting operation has not been accepted (NO in step S7), the processor 11 proceeds to step S9.

[0085] In step S8, the processor 11 sets the items configured on the second settings screen GQ.

[0086] In step S9, the processor 11 determines whether or not it has received an instruction to switch to the first setting screen GP. The processor 11 determines that it has received an instruction to switch to the first setting screen GP if it receives a signal from the external device 500 indicating that button Q1 or button Q7 on the second setting screen GQ has been clicked. If the instruction to switch to the first setting screen GP has been received (YES in step S9), the processor 11 proceeds to step S2. On the other hand, if the instruction to switch to the first setting screen GP has not been received (NO in step S9), the processor 11 proceeds to step S5.

[0087] In step S10, the processor 11 determines whether or not it has received a hierarchy switching instruction. The processor 11 determines that it has received a hierarchy switching instruction when it receives a signal from the external device 500 indicating that a tab in the first setting screen GP (for example, tab P8a, tab P8b, tab P8c, etc.) has been clicked. If the hierarchy switching instruction has been received (YES in step S10), the processor 11 proceeds to step S11. On the other hand, if the hierarchy switching instruction has not been received (NO in step S10), the processor 11 proceeds to step S12.

[0088] In step S11, the processor 11 provides the external device 500 with a first setting screen GP corresponding to the tab indicated by the switching instruction received in step S10.

[0089] In step S12, the processor 11 determines whether or not a setting operation has been accepted. The processor 11 determines that a setting operation has been accepted if it receives a signal from the external device 500 indicating that button P9 in the first setting screen GP has been clicked. If a setting operation has been accepted (YES in step S12), the processor 11 proceeds to step S13. On the other hand, if a setting operation has not been accepted (NO in step S12), the processor 11 proceeds to step S3.

[0090] In step S13, the processor 11 sets the items configured on the first setting screen GP. After step S8 or step S13, the setting process is completed.

[0091] Thus, the processing unit 100 in this embodiment can provide the external device 500 with a first setting screen GP that is easy for humans to operate and a second setting screen GQ that is easy to record operations on. Therefore, humans can use the setting screens according to their needs. More specifically, if a human wants to automate the setting operation for setting one or more items related to the processing unit 100 using the RPA 533, they can use the second setting screen GQ, which is easy to record operations on, to perform the setting operation. Since operations on the second setting screen GQ are easy for the external device 500 to record, it is possible to suppress unintended operations (errors) that occur in operations automated by the RPA 533.

[0092] On the other hand, if the setup process is not automated, users can perform the setup using the user-friendly first settings screen (GP). Therefore, the setup process can be performed efficiently.

[0093] Furthermore, setting screen G can be any setting screen for configuring one or more items related to the processing unit 100. Therefore, it could be the system settings screen for the processing unit 100, a function settings screen for the processing unit 100 (for example, a settings screen for the copy function, a settings screen for the scan function, etc.), or a screen for registering an address book in the processing unit 100.

[0094] [First modified example of the second settings screen in Embodiment 1] A first modified example of the second settings screen in Embodiment 1 will be described. The second settings screen GQ shown in Figure 5 was composed of multiple layers, similar to the first settings screen GP shown in Figure 4. When the first settings screen is composed of multiple layers, the amount of information displayed in each layer is reduced, making it easier for users to operate.

[0095] On the other hand, if the second settings screen consists of multiple layers, the screen layout will change before and after switching layers, which may lead to unintended operations (errors) when the operation is automated by RPA533. Also, the person who registers the operations to be automated using the second settings screen is often familiar with the settings operations. Therefore, in the second settings screen, it may be preferable to prioritize ease of operation automation over ease of operation. Accordingly, the processing unit 100 may provide the external device 500 with a second settings screen consisting of a single layer, as shown in Figure 9, instead of the second settings screen GQ.

[0096] Figure 9 shows a first modified example of the second settings screen in Embodiment 1. The second settings screen GQ11 consists of a single layer.

[0097] The second settings screen GQ11 combines the first-level screen, the second-level screen, and the third-level screen of the second settings screen GQ (see Figure 5) into a single level. More specifically, the second settings screen GQ11 includes setting fields Q81, Q82, and Q83. Setting field Q81 includes items that were included in the first-level screen of the second settings screen GQ (one or more items related to the mode reset function). Setting field Q82 includes items that were included in the second-level screen of the second settings screen GQ (one or more items related to the system auto-reset function). Setting field Q83 includes items that were included in the third-level screen of the second settings screen GQ (one or more items related to the auto-reset function).

[0098] Settings fields Q81, Q82, and Q83 employ a user interface that facilitates recording operations. More specifically, settings field Q81 uses radio buttons Q111 and Q112, settings field Q82 uses radio button Q113, text box Q114, and radio button Q115, and settings field Q83 uses radio button Q116 and text box Q117.

[0099] Thus, the second settings screen GQ11 uses a user interface that makes it easy to record operations. Therefore, when operations are automated by RPA533, it is possible to suppress unintended operations (errors).

[0100] Furthermore, in the second settings screen GQ11, one or more items related to the processing unit 100 are grouped together and displayed in a single hierarchy, eliminating the need to switch between hierarchical levels. Therefore, when operations are automated using RPA533, unintended operations (errors) can be suppressed.

[0101] [Second modified example of the second settings screen in Embodiment 1] A second modification of the second settings screen in Embodiment 1 will now be described. In the second settings screen GQ shown in Figure 5, similar to the first settings screen GP shown in Figure 4, the first options for currently available functions ("Copy," "Scan," and "Web Browser" in Figure 5) are displayed, and the second options for functions that are not currently available but can be added (e.g., "FAX") are not displayed.

[0102] Therefore, if an option is added to the processing unit 100 to add a function (for example, a fax function), the layout of the second setting screen may change. For example, in the layout before the option was added, the second option from the top of radio button Q4 was "Scan," whereas in the layout after the option was added, the second option from the top of radio button Q4 might be "Copy." If the layout of the second setting screen changes due to the addition of an option, the user will need to re-register the operations registered with the external device 500 before the option was added using the second setting screen provided after the option was added. To avoid this hassle of re-registration, the processing unit 100 may provide the external device 500 with a second setting screen like the one shown in Figure 10, instead of the second setting screen GQ.

[0103] Figure 10 shows a second modified example of the second settings screen in Embodiment 1. The difference between the second settings screen GQ12 and the second settings screen GQ shown in Figure 5 is the multiple options for "screen to display after reset" (multiple options included in radio button Q4). The second settings screen GQ12 displays multiple options for "screen to display after reset," including a first option for currently available functions ("Copy," "Scan," and "Web Browser"), and a second option for functions that are not currently available but can be added ("FAX").

[0104] Therefore, even if a new function ("FAX") becomes available due to the addition of an option, the layout of the second settings screen GQ12 will not change. As a result, operations registered to the external device 500 before the option was added do not need to be re-registered to the external device 500 after the option was added. This reduces the burden on the person who has to re-register the operations to be automated.

[0105] Furthermore, users who register operations to be automated using the second settings screen are often familiar with the settings process. Therefore, even if a second option for a feature that is currently unavailable but could be added is displayed, they can operate it without confusion.

[0106] [Embodiment 2] Embodiment 2 describes a case in which a second settings screen is provided to the external device that is suited to the user environment (for example, the specifications of the RPA software installed on the external device or the specifications of the input device of the external device). In the description of Embodiment 2, the same reference numerals are used for components that are the same as in Embodiment 1, and the description is not repeated.

[0107] Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating the overview of the setting process by the processing unit in Embodiment 2. The setting system in Embodiment 2 comprises a processing unit 100A and an external device 500. The processing unit 100A has the same hardware configuration as the processing unit 100.

[0108] The processing unit 100A includes a supply unit 111A, a setting unit 112, a reception unit 113A, and a storage unit 13. The supply unit 111A, the setting unit 112, and the reception unit 113A are realized by the processor 11 executing a program 131. The storage unit 13 stores a group of screen elements 132, main unit information 133, and a conversion table 134.

[0109] The reception unit 113A receives the specification of the type of second setting screen to be provided to the external device 500. A person specifies the type of second setting screen using the input device 540 of the external device 500. The reception unit 113A stores the received type in the conversion table 134.

[0110] Here, the conversion table 134 will be described with reference to Figure 12. Figure 12 is a diagram showing an example of a conversion table in Embodiment 2. The conversion table 134 includes the identification number of the external device 500 and the type of the second setting screen.

[0111] Referring again to Figure 11, the providing unit 111A provides a setting screen G for setting one or more items related to the processing unit 100A. More specifically, when the providing unit 111A receives a request (screen request) from the external device 500 to provide a setting screen G, it creates a first setting screen GP based on the screen element group 132 and the main unit information 133, and provides the first setting screen GP (see Figure 4) to the external device 500. The first setting screen provided to the external device 500 is the same in both Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2.

[0112] Furthermore, when the providing unit 111A receives a switching instruction from the external device 500 to switch to the second setting screen (for example, when button P1 is clicked), it refers to the conversion table 134 to identify the type of second setting screen corresponding to the external device 500, creates a second setting screen corresponding to that type based on the screen element group 132 and the main unit information 133, and provides the second setting screen corresponding to that type to the external device 500. Also, when the providing unit 111A receives a switching instruction from the external device 500 to switch to the first setting screen GP (for example, when button Q1 or button Q7 in Figures 13 and 14 is clicked), it creates a first setting screen GP based on the screen element group 132 and the main unit information 133, and provides the first setting screen GP to the external device 500. Furthermore, when the supply unit 111A receives a hierarchy switching instruction from the external device 500, it creates a screen corresponding to the hierarchy indicated by the switching instruction based on the screen element group 132 and the main unit information 133, and provides the created screen to the external device 500.

[0113] The procedure for setting by the processing device 100A in Embodiment 2 is the same as the procedure shown in Figures 7 and 8.

[0114] Referring to Figures 13 and 14, two types of second settings screens in Embodiment 2 will be described. Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example of the second settings screen in Embodiment 2. Figure 14 is a diagram showing another example of the second settings screen in Embodiment 2.

[0115] In the second settings screen GQ21, radio buttons and text boxes are used as elements for setting one or more items related to the processing unit 100A. More specifically, the second settings screen GQ21 uses radio button Q211, text box Q212, radio button Q213, radio button Q214, radio button Q215, radio button Q216, and text box Q217.

[0116] In contrast, the second settings screen GQ22 uses only text boxes as elements for setting one or more items related to the processing unit 100A. More specifically, the second settings screen GQ22 uses text boxes Q221, Q222, Q223, Q224, Q225, Q226, and Q227.

[0117] In some cases, the RPA533 installed on the external device 500 may not support radio button operations. In such cases, if operations on the second setting screen GQ21 are recorded by the external device 500, radio button operations will not be recorded, or even if they are recorded, the intended operations will not be performed when the process is re-executed. Therefore, if operations on the second setting screen GQ21, which uses radio buttons, are automated using RPA533, which does not support radio button operations, unintended operations (errors) will be performed as a result.

[0118] If the RPA533 installed in the external device 500 does not support radio button operation, a human can specify the second setting screen GQ22, which uses only text boxes, and have all operations automated by the RPA533. This prevents unintended operations (errors) from occurring during operations automated by the RPA533.

[0119] Furthermore, if the input device 540 of the external device 500 consists only of a mouse and a numeric keypad, the user can specify a second settings screen (for example, second settings screen GQ21) where text boxes are used for numerical input and radio buttons are used for selecting options, thereby enabling RPA533 to automate all operations. This helps to prevent unintended operations (errors) from occurring during operations automated by RPA533.

[0120] Thus, the processing unit 100A in Embodiment 2 accepts a specification of the type of second setting screen to be provided to the external device 500, and provides the external device 500 with the second setting screen corresponding to that type. Therefore, the external device 500 is provided with a second setting screen that is suitable for the user environment. Consequently, it is possible to suppress unintended operations (errors) that occur during operations automated by the RPA 533.

[0121] Furthermore, the types of second settings screens are not limited to just two: second settings screen GQ21 and second settings screen GQ22. It is sufficient to have two or more types of second settings screens.

[0122] Furthermore, while the second settings screen GQ21 and the second settings screen GQ22 were composed of a single layer, the second settings screen in Embodiment 2 may also be composed of multiple layers.

[0123] Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, the second setting screen may display the first option for currently available functions, but may not display the second option for functions that are not currently available but can be added. Alternatively, in Embodiment 2, the second setting screen may display both the first option for currently available functions and the second option for functions that are not currently available but can be added.

[0124] Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, the setting screen G can be any setting screen for setting one or more items related to the processing unit 100A. It can be a system setting screen for the processing unit 100A, a function setting screen for the processing unit 100A (for example, a setting screen for the copy function, a setting screen for the scan function, etc.), or a screen for registering an address book in the processing unit 100A.

[0125] [Note] The embodiments and variations described above include the following technical concepts.

[0126] [Configuration 1] Processing apparatus, A provisioning unit that provides a setting screen for setting one or more items related to the processing device, It includes a setting unit that allows setting one or more items in response to operations on the settings screen, The configuration screen of the processing unit includes a first configuration screen for accepting human input and a second configuration screen for accepting automated operations by RPA (Robotic Process Automation).

[0127] [Configuration 2] The processing apparatus is the processing apparatus according to configuration 1, which includes an image processing apparatus.

[0128] [Configuration 3] The first settings screen includes elements for switching to the second settings screen. The processing device according to configuration 1 or 2 provides a second setting screen in response to an operation on an element of the first setting screen.

[0129] [Structure 4] The second settings screen is a single-layered processing unit described in one of the configurations 1 to 3.

[0130] [Composition 5] The first settings screen is a processing device described in one of the configurations 1 to 4, consisting of multiple layers.

[0131] [Composition 6] One or more items include multiple items. The first settings screen consists of multiple levels, each displaying multiple items. The second settings screen is a processing unit described in one of configurations 1 to 5, consisting of a single hierarchical structure displaying multiple items.

[0132] [Composition 7] One or more items include items where you select one or more options from multiple choices. Multiple options include a first option regarding currently available features and a second option regarding features that are not currently available but can be added. The first settings screen displays the first option, but not the second option. The processing device described in any one of configurations 1 to 6, wherein both the first and second options are displayed on the second setting screen.

[0133] [Structure 8] The second settings screen has fewer displays to assist with the setting operation than the first settings screen, and is a processing device described in any one of configurations 1 to 7.

[0134] [Composition 9] The second settings screen has several variations. The processing device is the processing device according to any one of configurations 1 to 8, further comprising a receiving unit that accepts the selection of the type of second setting screen to be provided from among several types.

[0135] [Configuration 10] A setting system comprising a processing device described in any one of items 1 to 9, and an external device that displays the setting screen of the processing device.

[0136] [Composition 11] A method for configuring the processing unit, A step of providing a settings screen for setting one or more items related to the processing device, The system includes a step of setting one or more items in response to an operation on the settings screen. The configuration screen includes a first configuration screen for accepting human input and a second configuration screen for accepting automated operations by RPA (Robotic Process Automation).

[0137] [Composition 12] A configuration program that causes the computer to execute the configuration method described in Configuration 11.

[0138] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than by the foregoing description, and all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are intended to be included. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0139] 1 Setting System, 10 Control Unit, 11,510 Processor, 12,520 Memory, 13,530 Storage, 27 Transport Path, 30 Image Forming Unit, 31 Intermediate Transfer Belt, 32 Image Forming Unit, 33 Transfer Roller, 40 Fixing Unit, 50 Scanner, 60 Operation Panel, 70,560 Communication Interface, 81 Paper Feed Tray, 82 Transport Roller, 83 Paper Output Tray, 90,590 Bus, 100,100A Processing Unit, 111,111A Supply Unit, 112 Setting Unit, 113A Reception Unit, 131 Program, 132 Screen Elements, 133 Main Unit Information, 134 Conversion Table, 300 Network, 500 External Devices, 532 Web Browser, 533 RPA Software, 540 Input Device, 550 Display Device, G Setting Screen, GP First settings screen: GQ, GQ11, GQ12, GQ21, GQ22 Second settings screen: P1, P9, Q1, Q7, Q9 buttons, P2 slide switch, P3 increase / decrease button, P3a first button, P3b second button, P4 pull-down menu, P8a, P8b, P8c, Q8a, Q8b, Q8c tabs, Q2, Q4, Q111, Q112, Q113, Q115, Q116, Q211, Q213, Q214, Q215, Q216 radio buttons, Q3, Q114, Q117, Q212, Q217, Q221, Q222, Q223, Q224, Q225, Q226, Q227 text boxes, Q81, Q82, Q83 settings field.

Claims

1. Processing apparatus, A providing unit that provides a setting screen for setting one or more items related to the aforementioned processing device, The system includes a setting unit that sets one or more items in response to operations on the setting screen, The aforementioned settings screen includes a first settings screen for accepting human input and a second settings screen for accepting automated input by RPA (Robotic Process Automation), and is a processing device.

2. The processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processing apparatus includes an image processing apparatus.

3. The first settings screen includes elements for switching to the second settings screen. The processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the providing unit provides the second setting screen in response to the operation of the elements of the first setting screen.

4. The processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second settings screen is composed of a single hierarchy.

5. The processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first setting screen is composed of multiple layers.

6. The above-mentioned items 1 or more include multiple items, The first settings screen consists of multiple levels in which the multiple items are displayed, The processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second setting screen is composed of a single hierarchy in which the multiple items are displayed.

7. The above-mentioned items, one or more in total, include items in which one or more options are selected from multiple options. The aforementioned multiple options include a first option concerning currently available features and a second option concerning features that are not currently available but can be added. The first setting screen displays the first option, and the second option is not displayed. The processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein both the first option and the second option are displayed on the second setting screen.

8. The processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second setting screen has fewer displays to assist in setting operations than the first setting screen.

9. The aforementioned second settings screen has multiple types, The processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a receiving unit that receives a specification of the type of second setting screen to be provided from among the plurality of types.

10. A setting system comprising a processing device according to claim 1 or 2, and an external device for displaying a setting screen of the processing device.

11. A method for configuring the processing unit, The steps include providing a settings screen for setting one or more items related to the aforementioned processing device, The system includes the step of setting one or more items in response to an operation on the settings screen, The aforementioned configuration method includes a first configuration screen for accepting human input and a second configuration screen for accepting automated input by RPA (Robotic Process Automation).

12. A setting program that causes a computer to execute the setting method described in claim 11.

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