Image processing device, terminal device, program, and printing system

Abstract

This image processing device comprises: a storage unit; a communication unit that is communicatively connected to a terminal device in which one or a plurality of files are stored; an image processing unit that performs image processing including printing; a control unit that controls the image processing unit on the basis of communication by the communication unit; a housing in which the storage unit, the communication unit, the image processing unit, and the control unit are disposed; and a mounting mechanism unit that mounts the terminal device in the housing. The control unit, upon receiving a printing operation from a user with respect to a first file stored in the terminal device in a state in which the terminal device is mounted on the mounting mechanism unit, causes the image processing unit to: if a second file identical to the first file is not stored in the storage unit, perform printing by the communication unit receiving, from the terminal device, printing data obtained by conversion of the first file into a data format suitable for printing; and, if the second file is stored in the storage unit, perform printing by the communication unit receiving, from the terminal device, a printing instruction instructing printing of the second file, instead of receiving the printing data.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an image processing apparatus, a terminal device, a program, and a printing system.

Background Art

[0002] An image processing apparatus such as a printer generally has a display unit that displays an image including various types of information. The display unit of the image processing apparatus has a lower resolution, a lower refresh rate, and / or a smaller size compared to the display unit of a terminal device such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal. Therefore, the image processing apparatus often has lower operability compared to the terminal device.

[0003] In recent years, a printing system has been realized in which an operation screen of an image processing apparatus is displayed on a terminal device, and the terminal device operates the image processing apparatus through wireless communication between the image processing apparatus and the terminal device. Such an image processing apparatus may have a configuration having a minimum-sized display unit for displaying a two-dimensional code. Alternatively, such an image processing apparatus may have a configuration without a display unit (panel-less).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

[0005] An image processing apparatus according to a first aspect of the present disclosure includes a storage unit, a communication unit that is communicatively connected to a terminal device in which one or more files are stored, an image processing unit that performs image processing including printing, a control unit that controls the image processing unit based on communication from the communication unit, a housing in which the storage unit, the communication unit, the image processing unit, and the control unit are provided, and a mounting mechanism unit for mounting the terminal device to the housing. When the terminal device is mounted to the mounting mechanism unit and the control unit receives a print operation from a user regarding a first file stored in the terminal device, if a second file identical to the first file is not stored in the storage unit, the communication unit receives print data obtained by converting the first file into a data format suitable for printing from the terminal device, causing the image processing unit to perform printing. If the second file is stored in the storage unit, instead of receiving the print data, the communication unit receives a print instruction from the terminal device instructing the image processing unit to perform printing.

[0006] A terminal device according to a second aspect of the present disclosure includes: a storage unit for storing one or more files; a communication unit that is communicatively connected to an image processing device having a housing that performs image processing including printing and a mounting mechanism for mounting the terminal device; a display unit that displays an operation screen for operating the image processing device; an operation unit that receives an operation on the operation screen for printing a file selected by the user from the one or more files; and a control unit that controls the communication unit to communicate with the image processing device. When the terminal device is mounted on the mounting mechanism and the control unit receives a print operation from the user regarding a first file stored in the storage unit, if a second file identical to the first file is not stored on the image processing device side, the control unit causes the image processing device to perform printing by converting the first file into a data format suitable for printing and transmitting the resulting print data via the communication unit to the image processing device; and if the second file is stored on the image processing device side, instead of transmitting the print data, the control unit causes the image processing device to perform printing by transmitting a print instruction to print the second file via the communication unit to the image processing device.

[0007] A program according to a third aspect of the present disclosure causes a terminal device to perform the following steps: save one or more files in a storage unit; communicate with an image processing device having a housing that includes a mounting mechanism for mounting the terminal device and performs image processing including printing; display an operation screen for operating the image processing device; accept an operation on the operation screen for printing a file selected by the user from the one or more files; when the terminal device is mounted on the mounting mechanism and a print operation is accepted from the user regarding a first file stored in the storage unit, if a second file identical to the first file is not stored on the image processing device side, cause the image processing device to perform printing by converting the first file into a data format suitable for printing and sending the resulting print data to the image processing device; and if the second file is stored on the image processing device side, instead of sending the print data, cause the image processing device to perform printing by sending a print instruction to the image processing device instructing it to print the second file.

[0008] A printing system according to a fourth aspect of this disclosure comprises an image processing device according to a first aspect and a terminal device according to a second aspect.

[0009] An image processing apparatus according to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure comprises a storage unit in which a file is stored, a communication unit connected to a terminal device in which the file is stored in a communicative manner, an image processing unit that performs image processing including printing, a control unit that controls the image processing unit based on communication from the communication unit, a housing in which the storage unit, the communication unit, the image processing unit, and the control unit are provided, and a mounting mechanism unit for mounting the terminal device to the housing. When the terminal device is mounted to the housing and the control unit receives a print operation for a target file from a user of the terminal device, if the target file is stored in the terminal device, the communication unit receives print data obtained by converting the target file into a data format suitable for printing from the terminal device, causing the image processing unit to perform printing, and if the target file is stored in the storage unit, instead of receiving the print data, the control unit receives a print instruction from the terminal device instructing the image processing unit to perform printing. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a diagram showing an example configuration of a printing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example configuration of a terminal device according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example configuration of an image processing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of the external configuration of an image processing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of a mounting mechanism in which a terminal device according to the embodiment is propped up against an image processing device. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of a mounting mechanism in which a terminal device according to the embodiment is held vertically on an image processing device. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of a mounting mechanism in which a terminal device according to the embodiment is held horizontally on an image processing device. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of folders created individually for each user in the image processing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing an operation example of a printing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] It is a diagram showing a display example of an operation screen in a terminal device according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing a display example of an operation screen in a terminal device according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing a display example of an operation screen in a terminal device according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing a display example of an operation screen in a terminal device according to an embodiment. [Figure 14] It is a diagram showing an example of synchronization processing between an image processing device and a terminal device according to an embodiment. [Figure 15] It is a diagram for explaining a first modification example of an operation according to an embodiment. [Figure 16] It is a diagram showing a second modification example of an operation according to an embodiment. [Figure 17] It is a diagram showing a third modification example of an operation according to an embodiment.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] A printing system according to an embodiment will be described while referring to the drawings. In the description of the drawings, the same or similar parts are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals.

[0012] (Overview of the Embodiment) In a conventional printing system in which a terminal device operates an image processing device by wireless communication between the image processing device and the terminal device, a prior setting operation is required to establish a communication connection for wireless communication, which is a problem of being troublesome for the user. Further, although the terminal device can instruct the image processing device to perform printing by wireless communication, there is also a concern that another user may take away the printed paper (original document).

[0013] Furthermore, assume a case where a user performs an operation to print a file stored in a terminal device using an image processing device. Every time such printing is performed, it is conceivable that the terminal device converts the file to be printed into a data format suitable for printing to generate print data, and transmits the print data to the image processing device. Therefore, for example, when the communication bandwidth between the terminal device and the image processing device is narrow, the transfer time of the print data becomes long, and it takes a long time to complete the printing, which poses a problem of impairing the convenience of the user.

[0014] This embodiment provides a printing system capable of enhancing user convenience.

[0015] The image processing device according to this embodiment includes a storage unit, a communication unit communicably connected to a terminal device in which one or more files are stored, an image processing unit that executes image processing including printing, a control unit that controls the image processing unit based on the communication of the communication unit, a housing in which the storage unit, the communication unit, the image processing unit, and the control unit are provided, and a mounting mechanism unit that mounts the terminal device to the housing. When the control unit receives a print instruction from the user regarding a first file stored in the terminal device while the terminal device is mounted on the mounting mechanism unit, if a second file identical to the first file is not stored in the storage unit, the communication unit receives print data obtained by converting the first file into a data format suitable for printing from the terminal device, and causes the image processing unit to execute printing. If the second file is stored in the storage unit, instead of receiving the print data, the communication unit receives a print instruction for instructing printing of the second file from the terminal device, and causes the image processing unit to execute printing.

[0016] The terminal device according to this embodiment includes a storage unit for storing one or more files, a communication unit that is communicatively connected to an image processing device having a housing that performs image processing including printing and a mounting mechanism for mounting the terminal device, a display unit that displays an operation screen for operating the image processing device, an operation unit that receives an operation on the operation screen for printing a file selected by the user from the one or more files, and a control unit that controls the communication unit to communicate with the image processing device. When the terminal device is mounted on the mounting mechanism and the control unit receives a print command from the user regarding a first file stored in the storage unit, if a second file identical to the first file is not stored on the image processing device side, the control unit converts the first file into a data format suitable for printing and transmits the resulting print data to the image processing device via the communication unit to cause the image processing device to perform printing, and if the second file is stored on the image processing device side, instead of transmitting the print data, the control unit transmits a print command to the image processing device via the communication unit to instruct the image processing device to print the second file to cause the image processing device to perform printing.

[0017] Thus, according to this embodiment, the image processing device has a mounting mechanism for attaching the terminal device to the housing. This makes it easy for the terminal device to be connected to the image processing device by a physical connection, such as a mechanical connection, and for a communication connection to be established by a mechanical connection. Furthermore, since a print command is issued while the terminal device is mechanically connected to the image processing device, it is guaranteed that the user is in the vicinity of the image processing device, eliminating concerns that another user might take the printed paper (original). In addition, if the image processing device has a file identical to the file to be printed selected by the user, the terminal device sends a print command to the image processing device instructing it to print that file, instead of sending print data. This reduces the time it takes to complete printing compared to sending print data, thereby improving user convenience.

[0018] (Example system configuration) Figure 1 shows an example configuration of the printing system 1 according to this embodiment. The printing system 1 includes a terminal device 100 and an image processing device 200. In the illustrated example, there is only one terminal device 100, but the number of terminal devices 100 may be two or more.

[0019] Terminal device 100 is a device that performs wireless communication. Terminal device 100 may be a mobile terminal, such as a smartphone, tablet, or laptop computer (PC). In this embodiment, terminal device 100 is assumed to be a portable terminal that moves with the user. However, terminal device 100 may be an operating terminal used exclusively for operating the image processing device 200.

[0020] The image processing device 200 is a device that performs image processing, including printing. The image processing device 200 may be a printer, copier, fax machine, or a multifunction device having these functions. In this embodiment, the image processing device 200 has a wireless communication function.

[0021] In this embodiment, the image processing device 200 is a panelless image processing device that does not have a display unit for displaying images. Alternatively, the image processing device 200 may have a configuration that includes a small display unit that is minimal in size for displaying a two-dimensional code.

[0022] Terminal device 100 executes an operation application (also simply called "app") for operating the image processing device 200. Terminal device 100, which executes the operation application, displays the operation screen of the image processing device 200. This operation screen includes a connection screen used when connecting to the image processing device 200, a menu screen used after connecting to the image processing device 200, a selection screen for selecting the target of image processing, etc. On the menu screen, operation buttons for instructing the execution of image processing may be displayed for each type of image processing.

[0023] The terminal device 100 operates the image processing device 200 by communicating with the image processing device 200. In this embodiment, the terminal device 100 establishes a direct wireless communication connection with the image processing device 200 and performs direct wireless communication with the image processing device 200. Such direct wireless communication may be in the ad-hoc mode of a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) communication method (also referred to as "access point mode"). In that case, the image processing device 200 functions as a wireless LAN access point. The wireless LAN communication method may be a method compliant with the IEEE 802.11 standard. The wireless LAN communication method is sometimes referred to as Wi-Fi (registered trademark). Alternatively, the terminal device 100 may establish an indirect wireless communication connection with the image processing device 200 via an access point and perform indirect wireless communication with the image processing device 200.

[0024] Direct wireless communication may be via Bluetooth (registered trademark; hereinafter also referred to as "BT") wireless communication. Direct wireless communication may also be via NFC (Near Field Communication) wireless communication.

[0025] The terminal device 100 may be physically connected to the image processing device 200, for example, mechanically or electrically. For example, the terminal device 100 may communicate with the image processing device 200 using the USB (Universal Serial Bus) method. Such USB communication (also referred to as "USB communication") is an example of wired communication. However, wired communication is not limited to USB communication, and may be communication using other wired communication standards. As will be described in detail later, the terminal device 100 can be mechanically fixed and connected to the image processing device 200. When the terminal device 100 is mechanically connected to the image processing device 200, it may automatically start an operation application. When the terminal device 100 and the image processing device 200 are mechanically connected to each other, they may automatically start a synchronization process. Details of the synchronization process will be described later.

[0026] (Example of terminal device configuration) Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of the terminal device 100 according to this embodiment.

[0027] The terminal device 100 includes a communication unit 101, a display unit 102, an operation unit 103, a control unit 105, and a storage unit 106. The communication unit 101, display unit 102, operation unit 103, control unit 105, and storage unit 106 are electrically connected, for example, by a bus 110. Interfaces may be interposed between the bus 110 and each unit. The terminal device 100 may further include a battery and a camera, etc. The communication unit 101, display unit 102, operation unit 103, control unit 105, and storage unit 106 are housed in a casing 150 of the terminal device 100.

[0028] The communication unit 101 communicates with the image processing device 200. The communication unit 101 includes at least one of the following: a wireless LAN communication unit 101a (first communication unit), a BT / NFC communication unit 101b (second communication unit), and a USB communication unit 101c. The wireless LAN communication unit 101a performs wireless communication with the image processing device 200 using the wireless LAN communication method. The BT / NFC communication unit 101b performs wireless communication with the image processing device 200 using the BT method and / or the NFC method. The USB communication unit 101c performs communication with the image processing device 200 using the USB method. The terminal device 100 may further have a public network communication unit that performs communication via a public network. The public network may include a cellular communication network. The public network communication unit may be a cellular communication unit.

[0029] The display unit 102 displays an image under the control of the control unit 105. The operation unit 103 accepts user operations (user input). At least a portion of the operation unit 103 may be integrated with the display unit 102 to form a touch panel display unit 104. At least a portion of the operation unit 103 may be configured as one or more physical buttons. The display unit 102 is composed of a liquid crystal display unit or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display unit. The touch panel constituting the operation unit 103 detects the position of a touch operation on the display unit 102 and outputs the detection result.

[0030] The control unit 105 comprises one or more processors and controls the entire terminal device 100. The control unit 105 performs various processes by executing programs stored in the storage unit 106. These programs include operation applications for operating the image processing device 200. The control unit 105 controls the operation of the communication unit 101, the display unit 102, the operation unit 103, and the storage unit 106. The control unit 105 may also include logic circuits configured to perform only certain operations. The operations of the terminal device 100 described above and below may be operations controlled by the control unit 105.

[0031] The memory unit 106 is configured to include various types of memory, such as ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), and auxiliary storage devices. The combination of the control unit 105 and the memory unit 106 may be considered as a computer. The program executed by the control unit 105 is stored, for example, in the ROM and / or auxiliary storage devices of the memory unit 106.

[0032] Note that Figure 2 is merely a schematic diagram. For example, the control unit 105 and the storage unit 106 may be provided in multiple locations in a distributed manner. For example, each unit may have a processor (or, from another perspective, a control unit that controls each unit) and a higher-level processor (a higher-level control unit that controls the control units of each unit). In such a case, the control unit 105 may be considered as a higher-level control unit, or as a combination of the control units of each unit and the higher-level control unit.

[0033] In the terminal device 100 configured in this way, the storage unit 106 stores one or more files. The files may be image files, document files, or audio files. The storage unit 106 may include a removable storage medium such as a memory card. The storage unit 106 may also include local storage (for example, NAS (Network Attached Storage)) provided on the LAN.

[0034] Communications Department 101 teeth The image processing device 200 is connected in a communicative manner. A communicative connection means that at least one of the wireless LAN communication unit 101a, BT / NFC communication unit 101b, and USB communication unit 101c has established a communication connection with the image processing device 200. Display unit 102 teeth The control unit 105 displays an operation screen for operating the image processing device 200. For example, the control unit 105 controls the communication unit 101 to establish a connection with the image processing device 200 by executing an operation application, and also controls the display unit 102 to display the operation screen. The operation unit 103 accepts an operation on the operation screen for printing a file selected by the user from among the files stored in the storage unit 106.

[0035] If the image processing device 200 does not have a file identical to the selected file, the control unit 105 controls the communication unit 101 to send the print data obtained by converting the file into a data format suitable for printing to the image processing device 200. The print data generated in this way is also called a print job. The data format suitable for printing is not particularly limited, but for example, it may be PCL (Printer Command Language).

[0036] On the other hand, if the image processing device 200 has a file identical to the one selected by the user, the control unit 105 controls the communication unit 101 to send a print instruction to the image processing device 200 instructing it to print the file, instead of sending print data (print job). Such a print instruction requires significantly less data than print data.

[0037] In this embodiment, the control unit 105 When the terminal device 100 is mounted on the mounting mechanism of the image processing device 200 (i.e., the terminal device 100 is mechanically connected to the image processing device 200), and the system receives a print operation request from the user regarding the first file stored in the storage unit 106, the following control is performed. Specifically, the control unit 105If a second file identical to the first file is not stored on the image processing device 200 side, the first file is converted to a data format suitable for printing, and the resulting print data is sent to the image processing device 200 by the communication unit 101 (for example, the USB communication unit 101c), causing the image processing device 200 to perform printing. On the other hand, if a second file identical to the first file is stored on the image processing device 200 side, the control unit 105 Instead of sending print data, the communication unit 101 sends a print instruction to the image processing device 200 instructing it to print the second file, thereby causing the image processing device 200 to perform printing.

[0038] The control unit 105 may also detect when the terminal device 100 is attached to the image processing device 200 in response to the BT / NFC communication unit 101b or the USB communication unit 101c receiving a signal from the image processing device 200. Alternatively, a sensor (for example, a sensor provided on the connection terminal) may be separately provided to detect when the terminal device 100 is attached to the image processing device 200, and the control unit 105 may use this sensor to detect when the terminal device 100 is attached to the image processing device 200.

[0039] In this embodiment, when the operation unit 103 receives an operation to print a file selected by the user, the control unit 105 controls the communication unit 101 to transmit identification information indicating the selected file to the image processing device 200. This identification information may include any information that identifies the file, such as the file name. This identification information may also include file attribute information, such as the file format and file properties. The communication unit 101 receives a notification from the image processing device 200 indicating whether or not a file identical to the selected file is stored on the image processing device 200. Based on this notification, the control unit 105 determines whether or not a file identical to the selected file is stored on the image processing device 200. This allows for an appropriate determination of whether or not a file identical to the selected file is stored on the image processing device 200.

[0040] In this embodiment, the operation unit 103 receives user input on the operation screen to synchronize one or more files stored in the storage unit 106 with the image processing device 200. The control unit 105 performs the synchronization process by transmitting the one or more files and their save requests to the image processing device 200 via the communication unit 101. This allows the files stored in the storage unit 106 to be synchronized, making it easier to have the files stored in the storage unit 106 pre-saved on the image processing device 200. Note that when performing the synchronization process, it may be necessary to transmit a large number of files to the image processing device 200. Therefore, it is preferable to perform the synchronization process with the wireless LAN communication unit 101a or USB communication unit 101c connected to the image processing device 200.

[0041] In this embodiment, a save request includes a user identifier for identifying the user and is a request to save one or more files in a folder individually created for each user on the image processing device 200. This allows the user to save their own files in a folder dedicated to them on the image processing device 200. Since other users cannot access this dedicated folder, security and privacy can be enhanced.

[0042] The communication unit 101 may include a wireless LAN communication unit 101a, which is a first communication unit that performs wireless LAN communication, and a BT / NFC communication unit 101b, which is an example of a second communication unit that performs a predetermined narrowband wireless communication compared to wireless LAN communication. The control unit 105 may control the transmission of print data to the image processing device 200 via the wireless LAN communication unit 101a, and the transmission of print instructions to the image processing device 200 via the BT / NFC communication unit 101b. This allows the use of an appropriate communication method depending on the content to be transmitted. For example, even if the wireless LAN communication unit 101a is unavailable, print instructions can be transmitted to the image processing device 200 via the BT / NFC communication unit 101b. Alternatively, print data may be transmitted via the USB communication unit 101c. If either the wireless LAN communication unit 101a or the USB communication unit 101c is available, print instructions may be transmitted to the image processing device 200 via either the wireless LAN communication unit 101a or the USB communication unit 101c.

[0043] (Example of image processing device configuration) Figure 3 shows an example of the configuration of the image processing apparatus 200 according to this embodiment.

[0044] The image processing device 200 includes a communication unit 201, an image processing unit 202, a control unit 203, and a storage unit 204. The communication unit 201, the image processing unit 202, the control unit 203, and the storage unit 204 are electrically connected, for example, by a bus 210. Interfaces may be interposed between the bus 210 and each unit. The communication unit 201, the image processing unit 202, the control unit 203, and the storage unit 204 are housed in a housing 250 of the image processing device 200.

[0045] The communication unit 201 communicates with the terminal device 100. The communication unit 201 includes at least one of the following: a wireless LAN communication unit 201a (first communication unit), a BT / NFC communication unit 201b (second communication unit), and a USB communication unit 201c. The wireless LAN communication unit 201a performs wireless communication with the terminal device 100 using the wireless LAN communication method. The BT / NFC communication unit 201b performs wireless communication with the terminal device 100 using the BT method and / or the NFC method. The USB communication unit 201c performs communication with the terminal device 100 using the USB method.

[0046] The image processing unit 202 performs image processing, including printing. For example, the image processing unit 202 includes a printing unit 202a, a scanner unit 202b, and a public network communication unit 202c. For example, the types of image processing include "printing," "copying," "scanning," and "FAX (facsimile)." Here, "copying" is a function in which the scanner unit 202b scans a document and prints the resulting image data onto paper using the printing unit 202a. "Printing" is a function in which the communication unit 201 prints an image based on data received from the terminal device 100 or an image based on data stored on a recording medium (not shown) connected to the image processing unit 200 using the printing unit 202a. "Scanning" is a function in which the scanner unit 202b scans a document and saves the resulting image data. The storage location may be, for example, an auxiliary storage device (non-volatile memory in another view) included in the storage unit 204 or a storage medium connected to the image processing unit 200. "FAX" refers to the function of printing image data received from an external source via a telephone line by the public network communication unit 202c onto paper using the printing unit 202a, and the function of transmitting image data obtained by scanning a document with the scanner unit 202b to an external source via a telephone line using the public network communication unit 202c. Note that "image" may contain only text. The format of "image data" can be various; for example, it may be in vector format or raster format. In the description of this embodiment, for convenience, "image" and "image data" may not be strictly distinguished. "Image data" may be converted in format as appropriate during the image processing process. For example, the image data may be different when it is stored in the image processing device 200 and when image processing (e.g., printing or FAX) is performed.

[0047] The printing unit 202a performs printing under the control of the control unit 203. For example, the printing unit 202a prints on paper set in the paper feed tray and discharges the printed paper into the output tray. The printing unit 202a may have only one paper feed tray or may have multiple paper feed trays. From another viewpoint, the printing unit 202a may have a function to select the paper size. The printing unit 202a may be configured to print in color (as well as monochrome and grayscale), or to print only in grayscale (and monochrome), or to print only in monochrome. Furthermore, for example, the printing unit 202a may be an inkjet printer that prints by ejecting ink, a thermal printer that prints by heating thermal paper or an ink ribbon, or an electrophotographic printer (e.g., a laser printer) that transfers toner attached to a photosensitive material that has been irradiated with light. Furthermore, for example, the printing unit 202a may be a line printer in which the head has a length that spans the width of the paper (in a direction intersecting the paper transport direction), or it may be a serial printer in which the head moves in the width direction of the paper.

[0048] The scanner unit 202b performs scanning under the control of the control unit 203. The scanner unit 202b captures (scans) an image of a document placed on the document glass or ADF (Auto Document Feeder) using an imaging device that moves along the document glass, and generates image data.

[0049] The public network communication unit 202c performs image data communication over the public network under the control of the control unit 203. The public network includes the telephone network and / or the Internet. The public network communication unit 202c may also communicate with file servers, mail servers, and / or web servers. Such communication may be wired or wireless.

[0050] The control unit 203 is configured to include one or more processors and controls the entire image processing device 200. For example, the control unit 203 performs various processes by executing a program stored in the storage unit 204. In this embodiment, the control unit 203 controls the communication unit 201, the image processing unit 202, and the storage unit 204. The control unit 203 may also include logic circuits and the like configured to perform only certain operations. The operation of the image processing device 200 described above and below may be an operation controlled by the control unit 203.

[0051] The memory unit 204 is configured to include various types of memory, such as ROM, RAM, and auxiliary storage devices. The combination of the control unit 203 and the memory unit 204 may be considered as a computer. The program executed by the control unit 203 is stored, for example, in the ROM and / or auxiliary storage devices of the memory unit 204. 204 This may include removable storage media such as memory cards. The storage unit 204 may also include local storage (e.g., NAS) provided on the LAN.

[0052] Note that Figure 3 is merely a schematic diagram. For example, the control unit 203 and the storage unit 204 may be provided in multiple locations in a distributed manner. For example, each unit may have a processor (or, from another perspective, a control unit that controls each unit) and a higher-level processor (a higher-level control unit that controls the control units of each unit). In such a case, the control unit 203 may be considered as a higher-level control unit, or as a combination of the control units of each unit and the higher-level control unit.

[0053] Figure 4 shows an example of the external configuration of the image processing apparatus 200 according to this embodiment.

[0054] In the example shown in Figure 4, the image processing device 200 includes a paper feed tray 26, a paper output tray 27, a document cover 28, and a document tray 29. Paper placed in the paper feed tray 26 is transported one sheet at a time to the printing unit 202a (see Figure 3), where printing is performed, and the paper is ejected from the paper output tray 27. The document cover 28 can be opened upwards using the end of the document tray 29 as a pivot point. Paper is placed on the document tray 29 with the document cover 28 open, and scanning is performed with the document cover 28 open or closed. The operation panel 22 is provided at the upper corner of the image processing device 200. The operation panel 22 is provided with a mounting mechanism 221 for attaching the terminal device 100 to the housing 250 of the image processing device 200. By attaching the terminal device 100 to the mounting mechanism 221, the terminal device 100 is mechanically connected to the image processing device 200. For example, the terminal device 100 may be propped up on the mounting mechanism 221, and various operations related to the image processing device 200 from the user may be received by the terminal device 100.

[0055] A mounting mechanism 221 may be provided on the edge of the operation panel 22. For example, the mounting mechanism 221 is formed by cutting out a part of the edge of the operation panel 22. The mounting mechanism 221 may be provided as a place for leaning the terminal device 100 against it. By leaning the terminal device 100 against the mounting mechanism 221 and connecting the terminal device 100 and the image processing device 200 via a wired or wireless medium, it becomes possible to display the execution screen of the operation application on the terminal device 100. This makes it possible to use the terminal device 100 as the operation screen of the image processing device 200 even if there is no configuration to display an operation screen on the image processing device 200.

[0056] Figure 5 shows an example of a mounting mechanism 221 in which the terminal device 100 (see Figure 1) according to this embodiment is propped up on the image processing device 200 (see Figure 1).

[0057] In the example shown in Figure 5, an NFC antenna 221a is embedded in the mounting mechanism 221. This allows the terminal device 100, equipped with NFC functionality, to communicate with the image processing device 200 via the NFC antenna 221a when the terminal device 100 is placed on the mounting mechanism 221. Therefore, communication between the terminal device 100 and the image processing device 200 via the NFC antenna 221a enables the display of the printer operation application screen on the terminal device 100. Furthermore, information necessary for establishing a wireless LAN connection (such as an SSID) may be transmitted and received between the terminal device 100 and the image processing device 200 via communication through the NFC antenna 221a. Subsequently, the terminal device 100 and the image processing device 200 may establish a wireless LAN connection, enabling the display of the printer operation application screen on the terminal device 100 via wireless LAN communication. Additionally, a Bluetooth® antenna may be embedded in the mounting mechanism 221. In this case, a terminal device 100 equipped with a Bluetooth antenna is propped up on the mounting mechanism 221, and after pairing has been performed, the terminal device 100 and the image processing device 200 may send and receive various signals. This may enable the display of the execution screen of the printer operation application by the terminal device 100 via Bluetooth communication.

[0058] Figure 6 shows an example of a mounting mechanism 221 in which the terminal device 100 (see Figure 1) according to this embodiment is held vertically on the image processing device 200 (see Figure 1).

[0059] In the example shown in Figure 6, the terminal device 100 is placed vertically on the mounting mechanism 221, and the terminal device 100 is held by the holding parts 221b and 221c with the connection terminal 221d inserted into the bottom of the terminal device 100 and electrically connected. Specifically, the holding part 221b holds the upper and lower left edge of the terminal device 100 from the left side of the mounting mechanism 221, preventing, for example, the pressing of the volume adjustment button. The holding part 221c holds the upper and lower right edge of the terminal device 100 from the right side of the mounting mechanism 221, preventing, for example, the pressing of the power button. The holding parts 221b and 221c may be rotated 90 degrees, and the terminal device 100 may be held in a horizontal position. In this case, the connection terminal 221d itself may also be rotated 90 degrees, and the cord at the end of the connection terminal 221d may be extended.

[0060] Figure 7 shows an example of a mounting mechanism 221 in which the terminal device 100 (see Figure 1) according to this embodiment is held horizontally on the image processing device 200 (see Figure 1).

[0061] In the example shown in Figure 7, the terminal device 100 is placed horizontally on the mounting mechanism 221, and with the connection terminal 221d inserted into the lower part of the terminal device 100 for electrical connection, it is held by the holding parts 221e and 221f. Specifically, the holding part 221f holds the upper and lower left edges of the terminal device 100. The holding part 221e holds the back side of the holding part 221f.

[0062] As described above, by attaching the terminal device 100 to the mounting mechanism 221, a wireless communication connection can be established via the NFC antenna 221a, or a communication connection can be established via a mechanical connection through the connection terminal 221d. Although an example has been shown in which the mounting mechanism 221 is provided on the edge of the operation panel 22, it is not limited to this. The mounting mechanism 221 may be provided on the housing 250 of the image processing device 200, for example, on the top plate, side plate, or front of the housing 250. Also, although an example has been shown in which a part of the operation panel 221 is cut out as the mounting mechanism 221, it is not limited to this. As the mounting mechanism 221, a recess may be provided in the housing 250 and the terminal device 100 may be attached to the recess, or a base for leaning the terminal device 100 may be provided in the housing 250.

[0063] The control unit 203 may also detect when the terminal device 100 is attached to the mounting mechanism 221 in response to the BT / NFC communication unit 201b or the USB communication unit 201c receiving a signal from the terminal device 100. Alternatively, a sensor (for example, a sensor provided on the connection terminal) may be separately provided to detect when the terminal device 100 is attached to the mounting mechanism 221, and the control unit 203 may use this sensor to detect when the terminal device 100 is attached to the mounting mechanism 221.

[0064] In the image processing device 200 configured in this way, the communication unit 201 is connected to the terminal device 100 for communication. The image processing unit 202 performs image processing, including printing. The control unit 203 controls the image processing unit 202 based on the communication from the communication unit 201. If the storage unit 204 does not contain a file identical to the file selected by the user of the terminal device 100 from the files stored on the terminal device 100, the communication unit 201 receives print data obtained by converting the file into a data format suitable for printing from the terminal device 100. On the other hand, if the storage unit 204 contains a file identical to the selected file, instead of receiving print data, the communication unit 201 receives a print instruction from the terminal device 100 instructing it to print the file. When the communication unit 201 receives print data, the control unit 203 controls the image processing unit 202 to perform printing using the print data (i.e., execute a print job). When the communication unit 201 receives a print command, the control unit 203 retrieves the same file as the selected file from the storage unit 204, converts the retrieved file into print data (print job), and then controls the image processing unit 202 to perform printing using the print data.

[0065] In this embodiment, when the terminal device 100 is mounted on the mounting mechanism 221 and the control unit 203 receives a print operation request from the user regarding a first file stored in the terminal device 100, it performs the following control. Specifically, if a second file identical to the first file is not stored in the storage unit 204, the control unit 203 converts the first file into a data format suitable for printing, and the resulting print data is received from the terminal device 100 by the communication unit 201 (for example, the BT / NFC communication unit 201b or the USB communication unit 201c), causing the image processing unit 202 (printing unit 202a) to perform printing. On the other hand, if a second file identical to the first file is stored in the storage unit 204, the control unit 203, instead of receiving print data, causes the image processing unit 202 (printing unit 202a) to perform printing when the communication unit 201 (for example, the BT / NFC communication unit 201b or the USB communication unit 201c) receives a print instruction from the terminal device 100 to print the second file.

[0066] In other words, when the terminal device 100 is mounted on the housing 250, the control unit 203 receives a print operation for a target file from the user of the terminal device 100 and performs the following control. Specifically, when the terminal device 100 is mounted on the housing 250 of the image processing device 200, the control unit 203 receives a print operation for a target file from the user of the terminal device 100 and performs the following control. Specifically, if the target file is stored in the terminal device 100, the control unit 203 converts the target file into a data format suitable for printing, and the communication unit 201 receives the resulting print data from the terminal device 100, causing the image processing unit 202 to perform printing. On the other hand, if the target file is stored in the storage unit 204, instead of receiving print data, the control unit 203 receives a print instruction from the terminal device 100 instructing it to print the target file, causing the image processing unit 202 to perform printing.

[0067] Furthermore, the communication unit 201 receives identification information indicating the selected file from the terminal device 100. Based on this identification information, the control unit 203 generates a notification indicating whether or not a file identical to the selected file is stored in the storage unit 204, and controls the communication unit 201 to send this notification to the terminal device 100. If a file identical to the selected file is stored in the storage unit 204, the control unit 203 may immediately start the printing process using that file. In that case, the identification information indicating the selected file may be considered as a print instruction to print that file.

[0068] In this embodiment, the communication unit 201 receives a request from the terminal device 100 to save one or more files. Based on the save request, the control unit 203 performs synchronization processing by saving the files that have not yet been saved in the storage unit 204 to the storage unit 204. That is, the control unit 203 does not save all the files received from the terminal device 100 to the storage unit 204, but only saves the files corresponding to the differences. This saves the storage capacity of the storage unit 204.

[0069] The control unit 203 may start the synchronization process when the terminal device 100 is mounted on the mounting mechanism 221. That is, the control unit 203 may automatically start the synchronization process when the terminal device 100 is mechanically connected to the image processing device 200, even without any user operation indicating that the synchronization process should be started. This makes it possible to automatically synchronize files between the terminal device 100 and the image processing device 200 by having the image processing device 200 save any files stored in the terminal device 100 that have not yet been saved in the image processing device 200 when the terminal device 100 is mechanically connected to the image processing device 200. The control unit 203 may stop the synchronization process when the terminal device 100 is removed from the mounting mechanism 221. That is, the control unit 203 may automatically stop the synchronization process when the mechanical connection between the terminal device 100 and the image processing device 200 is released, even without any user operation indicating that the synchronization process should be stopped. Here, even if the synchronization process is stopped, the control unit 203 may have the communication unit 201 maintain wireless communication with the terminal device 100.

[0070] Alternatively, when the terminal device 100 is mounted on the mounting mechanism 221, the control unit 203 may prompt the terminal device 100 via the communication unit 201 to display an inquiry regarding whether or not synchronization processing is possible. In this case, the control unit 203 starts the synchronization processing based on the terminal device 100 receiving a user operation indicating that the synchronization processing should be started.

[0071] In this embodiment, the control unit 203 may manage folders created individually for each user, as shown in Figure 8. A save request from the terminal device 100 may include a user identifier to identify the user. The control unit 203 saves the file to the storage unit 204 in association with the user's folder indicated by the user identifier. This allows each file to be saved in a separate folder for each corresponding user. The control unit 203 will refuse or not disclose the contents of a folder even if another user requests to access a folder belonging to a particular user.

[0072] As described above, the communication unit 201 includes a wireless LAN communication unit 201a, which corresponds to a first communication unit that performs wireless LAN communication, and a BT / NFC communication unit 201b, which is an example of a second communication unit that performs a predetermined narrowband wireless communication compared to wireless LAN communication. The wireless LAN communication unit 201a receives print data from the terminal device 100. The BT / NFC communication unit 201b receives print instructions from the terminal device 100. Alternatively, print data may be received from the terminal device 100 by the USB communication unit 201c. If the wireless LAN communication unit 201a or the USB communication unit 201c is available, print instructions may be received from the terminal device 100 by the wireless LAN communication unit 201a or the USB communication unit 201c.

[0073] (Example of system operation) An example of the operation of the printing system 1 according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of the operation of the printing system 1 according to this embodiment.

[0074] In step S101, the terminal device 100 launches an operation application used to operate the image processing device 200 in response to user input. Alternatively, the terminal device 100 may automatically launch the operation application without user input when it is mounted on the mounting mechanism 221 of the image processing device 200. Here, the terminal device 100 displays an operation screen (printer selection screen in the illustrated example) as shown in Figure 10(1) on the display unit 102.

[0075] In step S102, the terminal device 100 receives an operation from the user to select the image processing device 200 to connect to. For example, the terminal device 100 receives an operation from the user to select the printer "PR1" shown in Figure 10 (1). Alternatively, when the terminal device 100 is mounted on the mounting mechanism 221 of the image processing device 200, the terminal device 100 may automatically select the image processing device 200 to connect to by receiving type (model) information from the image processing device 200.

[0076] In step S103, the terminal device 100 establishes a communication connection with the selected image processing device 200. Here, the terminal device 100 displays a menu screen as shown in Figure 10(2) as an operation screen on the display unit 102. The terminal device 100 may obtain information from the image processing device 200 indicating the type (model) of the connected image processing device 200 and display an optimized menu screen on the display unit 102 according to that type. For example, the terminal device 100 may maintain information that associates the type with a menu screen and use this information to display the optimal menu screen on the display unit 102. Alternatively, the terminal device 100 may obtain menu screen data from the connected image processing device 200 and use this data to display the optimal menu screen on the display unit 102. The menu screen has buttons for each type of image processing. In the illustrated example, the menu screen has a "Copy" button, a "Scan" button, a "Print" button, and a "FAX" button. In this embodiment, the menu screen further includes a "File" synchronization button. When the user selects (operates) the "File" sync button on terminal device 100, the operation screen transitions to a selection screen for selecting the files to be synced. Here, we will proceed with the explanation assuming that the user has selected (operated) the "Print" button and that the terminal device 100 has received an operation to print a file.

[0077] In step S104, the terminal device 100 receives an operation from the user to select a file to be printed from the files stored on it. Here, the terminal device 100 displays a file selection screen as shown in Figure 11 (3) as the operation screen on the display unit 102. In the illustrated example, an image file with the file name "Abc3.jpg" is selected. Then, the terminal device 100 displays a print settings screen as shown in Figure 11 (4) as the operation screen on the display unit 102. On the print settings screen, for example, the size, paper size, and number of copies can be selected. When the "Execute" button on the print settings screen is operated, the process proceeds to the next step.

[0078] In step S105, the terminal device 100 transmits the identification information of the file selected in step S104 to the image processing device 200. Alternatively, the terminal device 100 may transmit the identification information of the file to be printed to the image processing device 200 when the file to be printed is selected on the file selection screen, before the "Execute" button is pressed.

[0079] In step S106, the image processing device 200 compares the identification information received from the terminal device 100 with each file stored in its storage unit 204 to confirm whether or not the file to be printed is already stored in the storage unit 204.

[0080] In step S107, the image processing device 200 generates a notification indicating the confirmation result from step S106 and transmits the notification to the terminal device 100.

[0081] In step S108, the terminal device 100 determines, based on the notification, whether or not the file to be printed has already been saved on the image processing device 200.

[0082] If the image processing device 200 determines that the file to be printed is not already saved (step S108: NO), in step S109, the terminal device 100 generates print data from the file to be printed that is saved on its own. Then, in step S112, it sends the generated print data to the image processing device 200. In that case, in step S113, the image processing device 200 executes printing using the print data from the terminal device 100.

[0083] On the other hand, if the image processing device 200 determines that the file to be printed is already saved (step S108: YES), in step S110, the terminal device 100 sends a print command to the image processing device 200. The print command may include identification information for the file to be printed. In that case, in step S111, the image processing device 200 generates print data from the file to be printed that is saved on its own. Then, in step S113, the image processing device 200 executes printing using the print data it has generated.

[0084] As described above, according to this embodiment, if the file to be printed is stored on the image processing device side, the terminal device 100 sends a print instruction to the image processing device instructing it to print the file, instead of sending print data. This reduces the time required to complete printing compared to sending print data, thereby improving user convenience.

[0085] Figure 12 shows an example of a selection screen displayed on the terminal device 100 for selecting files to be synchronized. In the example shown, multiple files can be selected as synchronization targets on a folder basis, such as the "Photos" folder, the "Documents" folder, and the "Other" folder. The terminal device 100 identifies each file belonging to the folder selected by the user as a file to be synchronized.

[0086] Figure 13 shows an example of an error screen, which is an operation screen displayed on the terminal device 100 when an error occurs on the image processing device 200. The example shown displays the error screen when there is no paper. The error screen includes a "Details" button to display the details of the error and a "Solution" button to display how to deal with the error.

[0087] Figure 14 shows an example of synchronization processing between the image processing device 200 and the terminal device 100. Here, we will explain an example of operation in which synchronization processing is performed when the terminal device 100 is mounted on the mounting mechanism 221 of the image processing device 200.

[0088] In step S151, the terminal device 100 is attached to the mounting mechanism 221. Once the terminal device 100 is attached to the mounting mechanism 221, the attachment of the terminal device 100 is detected, for example, by a sensor provided on the connection terminal.

[0089] In step S152, the terminal device 100 transmits the information of the terminal device 100 to the image processing device 200. The information of the terminal device 100 may include identification information of the terminal device 100 and / or user identification information, and may also include communication-related information for establishing a communication connection. The image processing device 200 receives the information of the terminal device 100. As a result, the image processing device 200 establishes a communication connection due to the wearing of the terminal device 100 (step S153).

[0090] In step S154, once the terminal device 100 establishes a communication connection with the image processing device 200 by mounting, it displays a synchronization execution inquiry screen on the display unit 102 based on the communication with the image processing device 200, and accepts user operations for synchronization on the operation screen (inquiry screen).

[0091] If the terminal device 100 receives a user operation on the operation screen to synchronize (step S155: YES), in step S156, it determines that there is a command to execute synchronization and sends a file and save request signal to the image processing device 200. On the other hand, if the terminal device 100 receives a user operation on the operation screen indicating that it does not want to synchronize (step S155: NO), it determines that there is no command to execute synchronization and does not execute the synchronization process.

[0092] In step S157, when the image processing device 200 receives a file and save request signal from the terminal device 100, it performs a synchronization process. In this way, when the terminal device 100 establishes a communication connection with the image processing device 200 by connecting, it displays a request for synchronization on the display unit 102, making it less likely for the terminal device 100 to forget to synchronize the files it has saved with the image processing device 200.

[0093] In step S158, the image processing device 200 performs the synchronization process and then transmits information indicating the completion of the synchronization process to the terminal device 100.

[0094] In step S159, when the terminal device 100 receives information indicating the completion of the synchronization process, it displays a screen on the display unit 102 indicating that the synchronization process with the image processing device 200 has been completed. This allows the user to easily recognize that the synchronization process with the image processing device 200 has been completed.

[0095] Although the example shown displays a synchronization execution inquiry screen on the display unit 102 of the terminal device 100, it is also possible to display the files to be synchronized and an operation screen that allows the user to select those files.

[0096] Furthermore, while the example in Figure 14 shows a display on the terminal device 100's display unit asking for synchronization feasibility after the terminal device 100 has been mounted on the mounting mechanism 221 and the mounting of the terminal device 100 to the image processing device 200 has been established, the example is not limited to this. When the terminal device 100 is mounted on the image processing device 200, the terminal device 100 may perform synchronization processing by sending the file and save request to the image processing device 200 without displaying the synchronization execution inquiry screen on the display unit 102. In other words, the image processing device 200 may start synchronization processing as soon as the terminal device 100 is mounted on the mounting mechanism 221. This makes it less likely to forget to synchronize the files saved on the terminal device 100 to the image processing device 200.

[0097] Furthermore, if the terminal device 100 is disconnected from the image processing device 200 while the files from the terminal device 100 are being synchronized to the image processing device 200, the synchronization process may be stopped. Also, even if the terminal device 100 is disconnected from the image processing device 200, the communication connection (wireless connection) between the image processing device 200 and the terminal device 100 may be maintained.

[0098] (Example of first modification) Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating a first modified example of the operation according to the above embodiment.

[0099] In this modified example, the image processing device 200 is connected to a plurality of terminal devices 100 (in the illustrated example, terminal devices 100A to 100D) in a communicative manner. Each of the plurality of terminal devices 100 may be connected to the image processing device 200 by direct wireless communication such as wireless LAN, or by mechanical and electrical connection via wired communication such as USB. In addition, one of the plurality of terminal devices 100 may be mounted on the mounting mechanism 221 of the image processing device 200.

[0100] When multiple terminal devices 100 are connected to the image processing device 200 in a communicative manner, each of the terminal devices 100 can perform synchronization processing. As shown in Figure 8, the image processing device 200 has a storage unit 204 with folders created individually for each user. Each terminal device 100 (each user) can save its own files to its dedicated folder by sending a file, user identifier, and save request to the image processing device 200 in response to the synchronization processing.

[0101] Furthermore, the image processing device 200 may stop the synchronization process of other terminal devices 100 depending on the image processing status of one of the multiple terminal devices 100. For example, if terminal devices 100A and 100B are connected to the image processing device 200 in a communication manner, and terminal device 100A is performing synchronization processing with the image processing device 200, and terminal device 100B starts image processing such as printing, the image processing device 200 may stop the synchronization process of terminal device 100A. In other words, the image processing device 200 (control unit 203) may stop the synchronization process with the other terminal devices 100 if the image processing unit 202 starts image processing by one of the multiple terminal devices 100. This can suppress an increase in the load on the image processing device 200.

[0102] Furthermore, in the image processing device 200, the communication unit 201 can communicate with multiple terminal devices 100 simultaneously. The control unit 203 performs synchronization processing individually with each of the multiple terminal devices 100. Since synchronization processing places a heavy load on the image processing device 200, the image processing device 200 (control unit 203) performs synchronization processing individually with each of the multiple terminal devices 100, preventing simultaneous synchronization processing with multiple terminal devices 100 and suppressing an increase in the load on the image processing device 200.

[0103] Here, in the image processing device 200, the communication unit 201 may have a USB communication unit 201c (wired communication unit) that performs wired communication with one terminal device 100 mounted on the mounting mechanism unit 221 among a plurality of terminal devices 100, and a wireless LAN communication unit 201a (wireless communication unit) that performs wireless communication with other terminal devices 100 among the plurality of terminal devices 100. The control unit 203 may perform synchronization processing with one terminal device 100 via the USB communication unit 201c (wired communication unit). That is, the image processing device 200 (control unit 203) may perform synchronization processing only with the terminal device 100 connected to the USB communication unit 201c (wired communication unit) among the plurality of terminal devices 100. As a result, wired communication is faster and more stable than wireless communication, and synchronization processing can be performed smoothly and quickly.

[0104] (Example of second modification) Figure 16 shows a second modified example of the operation according to the above embodiment.

[0105] In this modified example, in the terminal device 100, the control unit 105 uses the communication unit 101 to acquire a file stored on the image processing device 200, and processes the acquired file to generate a processed file. The control unit 105 then controls the communication unit 101 to send the print data obtained by converting the processed file into a data format suitable for printing to the image processing device 200.

[0106] Meanwhile, in the image processing device 200, the control unit 203 controls the communication unit 201 to send the file stored on the image processing device 200 to the terminal device 100. The communication unit 201 processes the file and receives the resulting print data from the terminal device 100, which has been converted into a data format suitable for printing.

[0107] As shown in Figure 16, in step S201, the image processing device 200 sends a file to the terminal device 100. For example, the image processing device 200 sends a file generated by scanning (scan file) to the terminal device 100.

[0108] In step S202, the terminal device 100 processes the file from the image processing device 200 according to user operations. For example, the terminal device 100 draws objects (lines or shapes) on the scanned file and generates a processed file.

[0109] In step S203, the terminal device 100 generates print data (print job) from the processed file that has been created.

[0110] In step S204, the terminal device 100 transmits the generated print data to the image processing device 200.

[0111] In step S205, the image processing device 200 performs printing using the print data from the terminal device 100.

[0112] (Example of the third modification) Figure 17 shows the operation of the above embodiment. 3 The diagram shows an example of the changes.

[0113] In this modified example, the terminal device 100 uses the communication unit 101 to retrieve a file stored on the image processing device 200, processes the retrieved file to generate processing data representing the processing content, and controls the communication unit 101 to transmit the processing data to the image processing device 200. In other words, in this modified example, the terminal device 100 does not transmit print data to the image processing device 200, but transmits the processing content performed on the terminal device 100 to the image processing device 200. For example, the terminal device 100 transmits data of objects (lines and shapes) drawn on the scanned file to the image processing device 200 as processing data. As a result, the amount of data that needs to be transmitted to the image processing device 200 can be significantly reduced compared to the first modified example described above.

[0114] In this modified example, the control unit 203 of the image processing device 200 controls the communication unit 201 to send a file stored on the image processing device 200 to the terminal device 100. The communication unit 201 receives processing data from the terminal device 100 that represents the processing performed on the file on the terminal device 100. The control unit 203 applies the processing data to the file to generate a processed file, converts the processed file into print data, and then controls the image processing unit 202 to perform printing using the print data. In other words, in this modified example, the generation of print data (print job) is performed on the image processing device 200 side.

[0115] As shown in Figure 17, in step S301, the image processing device 200 sends the file to the terminal device 100. For example, the image processing device 200 sends the file generated by the scan (scan file) to the terminal device 100.

[0116] In step S302, the terminal device 100 processes the file from the image processing device 200 according to user operations. For example, the terminal device 100 draws objects (lines or shapes) on the scanned file and generates a processed file.

[0117] In step S303, the terminal device 100 extracts (generates) data of objects corresponding to the processed parts included in the processed file as processed data.

[0118] In step S304, the terminal device 100 transmits the generated processing data to the image processing device 200.

[0119] In step S305, the image processing device 200 applies the processing data from the terminal device 100 to the file (scan file). Specifically, the image processing device 200 superimposes the objects indicated by the processing data onto the file to generate a processed file.

[0120] In step S306, the image processing device 200 generates print data (print job) from the processed file generated in step S305.

[0121] In step S307, the image processing device 200 performs printing using the print data generated in step S306.

[0122] (Other embodiments) In the embodiments described above, "printing" may include 3D printing. That is, the image processing apparatus 200 may have a 3D printing function. For example, the printing unit 202a may be a 3D printer that forms three-dimensional objects using resin and / or metal powder.

[0123] The operation flow in the above-described embodiment does not necessarily have to be executed chronologically in the order shown in the flowchart. For example, the steps in the operation may be executed in a different order than that shown in the flowchart, or they may be executed in parallel. Also, some of the steps in the operation may be deleted, or further steps may be added to the process.

[0124] A program may be provided that causes a computer (image processing device 200, terminal device 100) to perform the operations according to the above embodiment. The program may be recorded on a computer-readable medium. Using a computer-readable medium, it is possible to install the program on a computer (information processing device). Here, the computer-readable medium on which the program is recorded may be a non-transient recording medium. The non-transient recording medium is not particularly limited, but may be a recording medium such as a CD-ROM or DVD-ROM.

[0125] As used in this disclosure, the phrases “based on” and “depending on / in response to” do not mean “based solely on” or “depending solely on” unless otherwise specified. “Based on” means both “based solely on” and “at least partially on.” Similarly, “depending on” means both “at least partially on” and “at least partially on.” Furthermore, the terms “include,” “comprise,” and variations thereof do not mean that only the listed items are included; they may include only the listed items, or they may include additional items in addition to the listed items. Also, the term “or” as used in this disclosure is not intended to mean exclusive OR. Moreover, any reference to elements using designations such as “first,” “second,” etc., as used in this disclosure does not generally limit the quantity or order of those elements. These designations may be used herein as a convenient way to distinguish between two or more elements. Therefore, references to the first and second elements do not imply that only two elements may be adopted therein, or that the first element must precede the second element in any way. In this disclosure, where articles are added by translation, such as a, an, and the in English, these articles shall be plural unless it is clearly indicated by the context that they are not.

[0126] Although the embodiments have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to those described above, and various design changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention.

[0127] (Note) The features of the above-described embodiment are noted below.

[0128] (Note 1) Memory unit and, A communication unit that is communicatively connected to a terminal device on which one or more files are stored, An image processing unit that performs image processing including printing, A control unit that controls the image processing unit based on the communication of the communication unit, A housing comprising the storage unit, the communication unit, the image processing unit, and the control unit, The terminal device is mounted on the housing, When the terminal device is mounted on the mounting mechanism, the control unit receives a print operation request from the user regarding the first file stored in the terminal device. If a second file identical to the first file is not stored in the storage unit, the communication unit receives the print data obtained by converting the first file into a data format suitable for printing from the terminal device, causing the image processing unit to perform printing. If the second file is stored in the storage unit, instead of receiving the print data, the communication unit receives a print command from the terminal device instructing the image processing unit to print the second file, thereby causing the image processing unit to execute the print command. Image processing device.

[0129] (Note 2) The communication unit receives a request to save one or more files from the terminal device, The control unit performs synchronization processing based on the save request by saving the files that have not yet been saved to the storage unit from the one or more files to the storage unit. The image processing device described in Appendix 1.

[0130] (Note 3) The control unit starts the synchronization process when the terminal device is attached to the mounting mechanism. The image processing apparatus described in Appendix 2.

[0131] (Note 4) When the terminal device is attached to the mounting mechanism, the control unit causes the terminal device to display an inquiry via the communication unit regarding whether or not the synchronization process can be performed. The image processing apparatus described in Appendix 2.

[0132] (Note 5) The communication unit is capable of communicating simultaneously with multiple terminal devices, including the terminal device. The control unit performs the synchronization process individually with each of the plurality of terminal devices. An image processing apparatus as described in any of Appendix 2 to 4.

[0133] (Note 6) The aforementioned communications unit is A wired communication unit that performs wired communication with one of the multiple terminal devices attached to the mounting mechanism, It has a wireless communication unit that performs wireless communication with other terminal devices among the plurality of terminal devices, The control unit performs the synchronization process with the one terminal device via the wired communication unit. The image processing apparatus described in Appendix 5.

[0134] (Note 7) When the image processing unit starts the image processing using one of the multiple terminal devices, the control unit stops the synchronization process with the other terminal devices. The image processing apparatus described in Appendix 5 or 6.

[0135] (Note 8) When the communication unit receives the print data, the control unit controls the image processing unit to perform the print using the print data. When the communication unit receives the print command, the control unit retrieves the second file from the storage unit, converts the retrieved second file into print data, and then controls the image processing unit to perform the print using the print data. An image processing apparatus as described in any of Appendix 1 to 7.

[0136] (Note 9) The communication unit receives identification information indicating the first file from the terminal device, The control unit generates a notification indicating whether or not the second file is stored in the storage unit based on the identification information, and controls the communication unit to transmit the notification to the terminal device. An image processing apparatus as described in any of Appendix 1 to 8.

[0137] (Note 10) The control unit manages folders created individually for each user, The aforementioned save request includes a user identifier for identifying the user, The control unit saves the file to the storage unit in association with the folder of the user indicated by the user identifier. The image processing apparatus described in Appendix 2.

[0138] (Note 11) The aforementioned communications unit is The first communication unit performs wireless LAN communication, It includes a second communication unit that performs a predetermined wireless communication with a narrower bandwidth than the aforementioned wireless LAN communication, The first communication unit receives the print data from the terminal device, The second communication unit receives the print instruction from the terminal device. An image processing apparatus as described in any of Appendix 1 to 10.

[0139] (Note 12) The control unit controls the communication unit to transmit the file stored on the image processing device to the terminal device. The communication unit receives print data obtained by processing the file and converting it into a data format suitable for printing from the terminal device. An image processing device as described in any of Appendix 1 to 11.

[0140] (Note 13) The control unit controls the communication unit to transmit the file stored on the image processing device to the terminal device. The communication unit receives processing data from the terminal device that represents the details of the processing performed on the file on the terminal device side. The control unit applies the processing data to the file to generate a processed file, converts the processed file into print data, and then controls the image processing unit to perform the printing using the print data. An image processing device as described in any of Appendix 1 to 11.

[0141] (Note 14) A storage unit in which one or more files are stored, A communication unit that is communicatively connected to an image processing device having a housing that includes a mounting mechanism for attaching the terminal device, which performs image processing including printing, A display unit that displays an operation screen for operating the image processing device, An operation unit that accepts an operation on the operation screen for printing a file selected by the user from the one or more files mentioned above, The system comprises a control unit that controls the communication unit to communicate with the image processing device, When the terminal device is mounted on the mounting mechanism, the control unit receives a print operation request from the user regarding the first file stored in the storage unit. If a second file identical to the first file is not stored on the image processing device, the first file is converted to a data format suitable for printing, and the resulting print data is transmitted to the image processing device via the communication unit, thereby causing the image processing device to perform printing. If the second file is stored on the image processing device, instead of sending the print data, the communication unit sends a print command to the image processing device instructing it to print the second file, thereby causing the image processing device to perform printing. Terminal device.

[0142] (Note 15) The control unit, in response to the operation unit receiving an operation to print the first file, controls the communication unit to transmit identification information indicating the first file to the image processing device. The communication unit receives a notification from the image processing device indicating whether or not the second file is stored on the image processing device side. Based on the notification, the control unit determines whether or not the second file is stored on the image processing device. The terminal device described in Appendix 14.

[0143] (Note 16) On the terminal device, The steps include saving one or more files to the storage unit, The steps include: performing image processing including printing and communicating with an image processing device having a housing that includes a mounting mechanism for attaching the terminal device; The steps include: displaying an operation screen for operating the image processing device; The steps include accepting an operation on the operation screen for the user to print a file selected from the one or more files mentioned above, When the terminal device is mounted on the mounting mechanism, and the user requests a print operation with respect to the first file stored in the storage unit, If a second file identical to the first file is not stored on the image processing device, the image processing device is instructed to perform printing by converting the first file into a data format suitable for printing and sending the resulting print data to the image processing device. If the second file is stored on the image processing device, the process involves sending a print instruction to the image processing device to print the second file, instead of sending the print data, thereby causing the image processing device to perform printing. Make it run program.

[0144] (Note 17) The system comprises the image processing device described in Appendix 1 and the terminal device described in Appendix 14. Printing system.

[0145] (Note 18) The storage unit where the file is saved, A communication unit that is connected to a terminal device where files are saved in a communicative manner, An image processing unit that performs image processing including printing, A control unit that controls the image processing unit based on the communication of the communication unit, A housing comprising the storage unit, the communication unit, the image processing unit, and the control unit, The terminal device is mounted on the housing, When the terminal device is mounted to the housing, the control unit receives a print operation request for the target file from the user of the terminal device, If the target file is stored in the terminal device, the communication unit receives the print data obtained by converting the target file into a data format suitable for printing from the terminal device, thereby causing the image processing unit to execute printing. If the target file is stored in the storage unit, instead of receiving the print data, the image processing unit will execute the print operation by receiving a print instruction from the terminal device instructing it to print the target file. Image processing device. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0146] 1: Printing System 22: Control Panel 26: Paper feed tray 27: Paper output tray 28: Manuscript stand cover 29: Manuscript stand 100: Terminal device 101: Communications Department 101a:Wireless LAN communication department 101b:NFC communication department 101c: USB communication unit 102: Display section 103:Operation unit 104: Touch panel display 105: Control Unit 106: Storage section 110: Bus 150: Cabinet 200: Image processing device 201: Communications Department 201a:Wireless LAN Communication Department 201b:NFC Communication Department 201c:USB communication section 202: Image Processing Unit 202a:Printing Department 202b: Scanner section 202c: Public Network Communications Department 203: Control Unit 204: Storage section 210: Bus 221: Mounting mechanism 221a: NFC antenna 221b: Holding part 221c: Holding part 221d: Connection terminal 221e: Holding part 221f: Holding section 250: Enclosure

Claims

1. Memory unit and, A communication unit that is communicatively connected to a terminal device on which one or more files are stored, An image processing unit that performs image processing including printing, A control unit that controls the image processing unit based on the communication of the communication unit, A housing comprising the storage unit, the communication unit, the image processing unit, and the control unit, The terminal device is mounted on the housing, When the terminal device is mounted on the mounting mechanism, the control unit receives a print operation request from the user regarding the first file stored in the terminal device. If a second file identical to the first file is not stored in the storage unit, the communication unit receives the print data obtained by converting the first file into a data format suitable for printing from the terminal device, causing the image processing unit to perform printing. If the second file is stored in the storage unit, instead of receiving the print data, the communication unit receives a print instruction from the terminal device instructing the image processing unit to print the second file, thereby causing the image processing unit to perform printing. When the terminal device is attached to the mounting mechanism, the control unit starts a synchronization process to save any files that have not yet been saved to the storage unit from among the one or more files to the storage unit. Image processing device.

2. The communication unit receives a request to save one or more files from the terminal device. The control unit performs the synchronization process based on the save request. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The communication unit is capable of communicating simultaneously with multiple terminal devices, including the terminal device. The control unit performs the synchronization process individually with each of the plurality of terminal devices. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The aforementioned communications unit is A wired communication unit that performs wired communication with one of the multiple terminal devices attached to the mounting mechanism, It has a wireless communication unit that performs wireless communication with other terminal devices among the plurality of terminal devices, The control unit performs the synchronization process with the one terminal device via the wired communication unit. The image processing apparatus according to claim 3.

5. When the image processing unit starts the image processing using one of the multiple terminal devices, the control unit stops the synchronization process with the other terminal devices. The image processing apparatus according to claim 3.

6. When the communication unit receives the print data, the control unit controls the image processing unit to perform the print using the print data. When the communication unit receives the print command, the control unit retrieves the second file from the storage unit, converts the retrieved second file into print data, and then controls the image processing unit to perform the print using the print data. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1.

7. The communication unit receives identification information indicating the first file from the terminal device, The control unit generates a notification based on the identification information indicating whether or not the second file is stored in the storage unit, and controls the communication unit to transmit the notification to the terminal device. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1.

8. The control unit manages folders created individually for each user, The aforementioned save request includes a user identifier for identifying the user, The control unit saves the file to the storage unit in association with the folder of the user indicated by the user identifier. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2.

9. A memory unit, A communication unit that is communicatively connected to a terminal device on which one or more files are stored, An image processing unit that performs image processing including printing, A control unit that controls the image processing unit based on the communication of the communication unit, A housing comprising the storage unit, the communication unit, the image processing unit, and the control unit, The terminal device is mounted on the housing, When the terminal device is mounted on the mounting mechanism, the control unit receives a print operation request from the user regarding the first file stored in the terminal device. If a second file identical to the first file is not stored in the storage unit, the communication unit receives the print data obtained by converting the first file into a data format suitable for printing from the terminal device, causing the image processing unit to perform printing. If the second file is stored in the storage unit, instead of receiving the print data, the communication unit receives a print instruction from the terminal device instructing the image processing unit to print the second file, thereby causing the image processing unit to perform printing. The aforementioned communications unit is The first communication unit performs wireless LAN communication, It includes a second communication unit that performs a predetermined wireless communication with a narrower bandwidth than the aforementioned wireless LAN communication, The first communication unit receives the print data from the terminal device, The second communication unit receives the print instruction from the terminal device. Image processing device.

10. The control unit controls the communication unit to transmit the file stored on the image processing device to the terminal device. The communication unit receives print data obtained by processing the file and converting it into a data format suitable for printing from the terminal device. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1.

11. The control unit controls the communication unit to transmit the file stored on the image processing device to the terminal device. The communication unit receives processing data from the terminal device that represents the details of the processing performed on the file on the terminal device side. The control unit applies the processing data to the file to generate a processed file, converts the processed file into print data, and then controls the image processing unit to perform the printing using the print data. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1.

12. A terminal device, A storage unit in which one or more files are stored, A communication unit that is communicatively connected to an image processing device having a housing that includes a mounting mechanism for mounting the terminal device, which performs image processing including printing, A display unit that displays an operation screen for operating the image processing device, An operation unit that accepts an operation on the operation screen for printing a file selected by the user from the one or more files mentioned above, The system comprises a control unit that controls the communication unit to communicate with the image processing device, When the terminal device is mounted on the mounting mechanism, the control unit receives a print operation request from the user regarding the first file stored in the storage unit. If a second file identical to the first file is not stored on the image processing device, the first file is converted to a data format suitable for printing, and the resulting print data is transmitted to the image processing device via the communication unit, thereby causing the image processing device to perform printing. If the second file is stored on the image processing device, instead of transmitting the print data, the communication unit transmits a print command to the image processing device instructing it to print the second file, thereby causing the image processing device to perform printing. When the terminal device is attached to the mounting mechanism, the control unit causes the image processing device to perform a synchronization process to save the unsaved file among the one or more files. Terminal device.

13. The control unit, in response to the operation unit receiving an operation to print the first file, controls the communication unit to transmit identification information indicating the first file to the image processing device. The communication unit receives a notification from the image processing device indicating whether or not the second file is stored on the image processing device side. Based on the notification, the control unit determines whether or not the second file is stored on the image processing device. The terminal device according to claim 12.

14. On the terminal device, The steps include saving one or more files to the storage unit, The steps include: performing image processing including printing and communicating with an image processing device having a housing that includes a mounting mechanism for attaching the terminal device; The steps include: displaying an operation screen for operating the image processing device; The steps include accepting an operation on the operation screen for the user to print a file selected by the user from the one or more files mentioned above, When the terminal device is mounted on the mounting mechanism, and the user requests a print operation with respect to the first file stored in the storage unit, If a second file identical to the first file is not stored on the image processing device, the image processing device is instructed to perform printing by converting the first file into a data format suitable for printing and sending the resulting print data to the image processing device. If the second file is stored on the image processing device, the process involves sending a print instruction to the image processing device to print the second file, instead of sending the print data, thereby causing the image processing device to perform printing. When the terminal device is attached to the mounting mechanism, the image processing device is instructed to perform a synchronization process to save the unsaved file among the one or more files. Make it run program.

15. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 and the terminal device according to claim 12 are provided. Printing system.

16. The storage unit where the file is saved, A communication unit that is communicatively connected to a terminal device on which one or more files are stored, An image processing unit that performs image processing including printing, A control unit that controls the image processing unit based on the communication of the communication unit, A housing comprising the storage unit, the communication unit, the image processing unit, and the control unit, The terminal device is mounted on the housing, When the terminal device is mounted on the mounting mechanism, the control unit receives a print operation request for the target file from the user of the terminal device. If the target file is stored in the terminal device, the communication unit receives the print data obtained by converting the target file into a data format suitable for printing from the terminal device, thereby causing the image processing unit to execute printing. If the target file is stored in the storage unit, instead of receiving the print data, the image processing unit is instructed to print the target file by receiving a print instruction from the terminal device. When the terminal device is attached to the mounting mechanism, the control unit starts a synchronization process to save any files that have not yet been saved to the storage unit from among the one or more files to the storage unit. Image processing device.

17. A terminal device, A storage unit in which one or more files are stored, A communication unit that is communicatively connected to an image processing device having a housing that includes a mounting mechanism for mounting the terminal device, which performs image processing including printing, A display unit that displays an operation screen for operating the image processing device, An operation unit that accepts an operation on the operation screen for printing a file selected by the user from the one or more files mentioned above, The system comprises a control unit that controls the communication unit to communicate with the image processing device, When the terminal device is mounted on the mounting mechanism, the control unit receives a print operation request from the user regarding the first file stored in the storage unit. If a second file identical to the first file is not stored on the image processing device, the first file is converted to a data format suitable for printing, and the resulting print data is transmitted to the image processing device via the communication unit, thereby causing the image processing device to perform printing. If the second file is stored on the image processing device, instead of transmitting the print data, the communication unit transmits a print command to the image processing device instructing it to print the second file, thereby causing the image processing device to perform printing. The aforementioned communications unit is The first communication unit performs wireless LAN communication, It includes a second communication unit that performs a predetermined wireless communication with a narrower bandwidth than the aforementioned wireless LAN communication, The first communication unit transmits the print data to the image processing device, The second communication unit transmits the print instruction to the image processing device. Terminal device.

18. A storage unit in which files are stored, A communication unit that is connected to a terminal device where files are saved in a communicative manner, An image processing unit that performs image processing including printing, A control unit that controls the image processing unit based on the communication of the communication unit, A housing comprising the storage unit, the communication unit, the image processing unit, and the control unit, The terminal device is mounted on the housing, When the terminal device is mounted on the mounting mechanism, the control unit receives a print operation request for the target file from the user of the terminal device. If the target file is stored in the terminal device, the communication unit receives the print data obtained by converting the target file into a data format suitable for printing from the terminal device, thereby causing the image processing unit to execute printing. If the target file is stored in the storage unit, instead of receiving the print data, the image processing unit is instructed to print the target file by receiving a print instruction from the terminal device. The aforementioned communications unit is The first communication unit performs wireless LAN communication, It includes a second communication unit that performs a predetermined wireless communication with a narrower bandwidth than the aforementioned wireless LAN communication, The first communication unit receives the print data from the terminal device, The second communication unit receives the print instruction from the terminal device. Image processing device.

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