JP2011077988A - Composite machine, job processing system, and printer driver - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To assure easier setting manipulations for each function by making possible for a user to execute setting manipulations with reference to information to be displayed and without procedures for searching the related items. <P>SOLUTION: The composite machine has at least a couple of functions selected from copying function, printing function, FAX receiving function, FAX transmitting function, mail function and scanning data storing function. The couple of functions are different at least in a part of the setting conditions for each function. The composite machine includes a first setting unit for setting the setting conditions for the first function, a first job processing unit for executing jobs under the setting conditions set by the first setting unit, a setting history storing unit for storing history of the setting conditions set by the first setting unit, a second setting unit for setting the setting conditions for the second function, and a second job processing unit for executing jobs under the setting conditions set by the second setting unit. The second setting unit generates and displays a setting image for presentation to users based on a part of the setting conditions of the first function stored in the setting history storing unit. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus (multifunction peripheral), a job processing system, and a printer driver having a plurality of functions.

  In recent years, an image forming apparatus integrally includes a document reading apparatus, a printing apparatus, a FAX transmission / reception apparatus, a network communication apparatus, and the like, and by using them in combination, a copy function, a printer function, a FAX transmission / reception function, and a scanning function are used. Various functions such as a Scan to mail function for sending image data obtained by e-mail are provided.

  For example, in the copy function, an image of a document is input by a document reading device and printed by a printing device. In the FAX reception function, image data received by the FAX reception device is printed by a printing device. In the FAX transmission function and the Scan to mail function, an image of a document is input by a document reading device, and image data is transmitted by a FAX transmission device or a mail transmission device.

  In such an image forming apparatus (multi-function peripheral) having a plurality of functions, the setting operation for each function becomes complicated, and thus a proposal for facilitating the setting operation has been made. For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-151620 discloses a technique for recording a setting history on an operation panel and presenting frequently used setting items to a user to reduce the setting operation. Also, in Patent Documents 2 and 3 below, setting history is recorded in the setting in the printer driver, and the display mode of the screen is changed according to the use frequency of the setting to reduce the setting operation. Technology is disclosed.

  Further, Patent Document 4 below discloses a technique for storing printing conditions set in a printing apparatus main body and making the history of the printing conditions available for setting in a printer driver of a PC.

JP 2005-10603 A JP 2007-79720 A JP 2007-279894 A JP 2005-297488 A

  However, since the conventional technology uses the setting history of a function when performing a setting operation of a predetermined function, for example, when using a function that is frequently used, the setting operation is performed based on the setting history. However, when using a function that is not frequently used, there is a problem in that improvement in operability cannot be expected because the setting history of the function is small.

  SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is that it provides a multifunction peripheral, a job processing system, and a printer driver capable of facilitating the setting operation of each function.

  In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides a copy function, a function for printing data received from a computer device, a function for printing FAX received data, a function for FAX transmission of scanned data, and the scanned data into an e-mail. A multi-function peripheral having at least two functions selected from a function for sending attached data and a function for saving scanned data, wherein the two functions are different in at least part of setting conditions for each function. A first setting unit that sets a setting condition related to the first function, a first job processing unit that executes a job under the setting condition set by the first setting unit, and a setting set by the first setting unit A setting history storage unit that stores a history of conditions, a second setting unit that sets setting conditions related to the second function, and the second setting unit. A second job processing unit that executes a job under a setting condition, wherein the second setting unit is configured to be based on a part of the setting condition related to the first function stored in the setting history storage unit. A setting screen to be presented is generated and displayed.

  According to the present invention, in a job processing system in which a computer device that generates and transmits a job and an image forming device that executes the job are connected via a communication network, the image forming device receives the computer device from the computer device. Print function for printing data, copy function, function for printing fax received data, function for sending scanned data by fax, function for sending scanned data by attaching to an email, function for saving scanned data At least one other function selected from the above, and the print function and the other function are different in at least a part of setting conditions relating to each function, and the computer device includes the print function A setting unit for setting the setting conditions for the job and a setting condition set by the setting unit. And a history processing unit that acquires a history of setting conditions related to the other function set in the image forming apparatus, and the setting unit sets the acquired setting related to the other function. A setting screen to be presented to the user is generated and displayed based on a part of the conditions.

  The present invention also relates to a printer driver that operates on a computer device connected to the image forming apparatus via a communication network, the image forming device including a print function for printing data received from the computer device, a copy function, At least one other function selected from the function of printing the received data by FAX, the function of transmitting the scanned data by FAX, the function of attaching the scanned data to an e-mail, and the function of storing the scanned data The print function and the other function are different from each other in at least some of the setting conditions relating to the respective functions, and the setting unit for setting the setting conditions relating to the print function, the setting Generating unit for generating a job with setting conditions set by the copying unit, the image forming apparatus A setting screen that functions as a history processing unit that acquires a history of setting conditions related to the other function that has been set, and that the setting unit presents to the user based on part of the acquired setting conditions related to the other function Is generated and displayed.

  According to the MFP, the job processing system, and the printer driver of the present invention, the setting operation of each function can be facilitated.

  The reason is that, even when setting functions that are rarely used or functions that are rarely used, items that are frequently used and their setting values are displayed based on the setting history of functions that are different from the functions that are used. Therefore, the user can perform the setting operation with reference to the displayed information.

  In addition, since the items related to the function to be used are extracted and presented to the user from the setting history of another function, the user can perform the setting operation without searching for the related item.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a job processing system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the computer apparatus which concerns on 1st Example of this invention. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows schematic operation | movement of the job processing system which concerns on 1st Example of this invention. FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an overall operation (operation at the time of setting by a panel) of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an operation (history recording process) of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation (first history process) of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation (second history process) of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an overall operation of the printer driver according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation (first history processing) of the printer driver according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation (second history process) of the printer driver according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation (processing for a history request) of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an operation (processing at the time of job reception) of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a table (common setting history table) stored in the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a table (function-specific setting history table) stored in the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a table (function-specific setting history table) stored in the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen (default screen) displayed on the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen (default screen when an entire history button is operated) displayed on the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen (default screen when operating a function-specific history button) displayed on the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention (operation when setting BOX output by a panel). FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an operation (BOX storage process) of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a table (BOX related history table) stored in the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen (BOX output mode folder selection screen) displayed on the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen (BOX output mode function selection screen) displayed on the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows schematic operation | movement of the job processing system which concerns on 2nd Example of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the table (A setting item-function corresponding | compatible table and a setting item total table) memorize | stored in the image forming apparatus which concerns on 2nd Example of this invention.

  As shown in the background art, recent image forming apparatuses have various functions such as a copy function, a printer function, a FAX function, and a Scan to mail function, so that the setting operation of each function becomes very complicated. Therefore, there is a need for a user interface that allows easy setting intended by the user.

  To deal with this problem, conventionally, the setting operation of each function is stored as history information, and when the function is used, control such as changing the display form of the setting screen based on the history information is performed. It was.

  However, some functions are frequently used, and some functions are rarely used or have not been used. When using the latter function, the setting operation is performed even if the history information of the function is used. Can not be easy.

  On the other hand, the setting items of each function of the image forming apparatus are not irrelevant. If there are setting items unique to each function, setting items common to other functions (for example, the print setting item and the copy function in the copy function and the print function). In the function, FAX transmission function, and Scan to mail function, there are document reading setting items.

  Therefore, in one embodiment of the present invention, focusing on the fact that each function setting item includes a setting item specific to each function and a common setting item, the setting screen display is based on the setting history of the function to be used. In addition to controlling the form, the display form of the setting screen is controlled based on the history information of common setting items used in other functions, so that the setting history can be easily used between the functions.

  In order to describe the above-described embodiment of the present invention in more detail, the multifunction peripheral, the job processing system, and the printer driver according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration of a job processing system according to the present exemplary embodiment, FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a computer apparatus, and FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus. . FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a schematic operation of the job processing system, and FIGS. 5 to 13, 20, and 21 are flowcharts showing specific operations of each device. FIGS. 14 to 16 and 22 are diagrams showing examples of tables stored in the DB, and FIGS. 17 to 19, 23 and 24 are examples of screens displayed on the image forming apparatus. FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the job processing system according to the present embodiment includes one or more computer apparatuses 10 for instructing a job and one or more image forming apparatuses (MFP: Multi Function Peripheral or FAX) 20 for processing the job. These are connected by a communication network 30 such as a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), or a telephone line. Hereinafter, each device will be described in detail.

[Computer device]
As shown in FIG. 2A, the computer apparatus 10 includes a control unit 11, a display unit 12, an operation unit 13, and the like.

  The control unit 11 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11a, a ROM (Read Only Memory), a memory 11b such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 11c, a communication I / F unit 11d, and the like. Are connected via a bus. The CPU 11a controls each part. The memory 11b is a part that temporarily stores various data read from the HDD 11c and the communication I / F unit 11d, and the stored data is processed by the CPU 11a, and the HDD 11c and the communication I / F unit 11d as necessary. Forwarded to The HDD 11c stores a program for the CPU 11a to control each unit, information on the processing function of the own apparatus, setting history information acquired from the image forming apparatus 20, and the like, read by the CPU 11a as necessary, and stored on the memory 11b. It is executed. The communication I / F unit 11d establishes a connection with a device connected via the communication network 30, and executes transmission / reception of data.

  The control unit 11 functions as an application for creating a document and a printer driver that instructs printing of the document. The printer driver, as shown in FIG. 2B, converts document data created by an application into a language (PCL (Printer Control Language), PS (Post Script), or other PDL (Page Description) that can be read by the image forming apparatus 20. (Language)) for generating a job, a history processing unit for acquiring setting history information from the image forming apparatus 20, and setting conditions (setting items and setting values) regarding the print function. It functions as a setting unit that controls the screen displayed on the display unit 12 based on the setting history information acquired from the image forming apparatus 20.

  The display unit 12 includes a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic EL (electroluminescence) display, and the like, and displays a setting screen related to printing.

  The operation unit 13 includes a pointing device, a keyboard, a trackball, a trackpad, a tablet, a stylus pen, and the like, and enables an instruction for a screen displayed on the display unit 12.

  FIG. 2 shows a basic configuration of the computer apparatus 10, and the configuration can be appropriately changed as long as the printer driver can be executed.

[Image forming apparatus]
As shown in FIG. 3A, the image forming apparatus 20 is a multi-function machine having a plurality of functions, and includes a control unit 21, a display unit 22, an operation unit 23, an image reading unit 24, and a printing unit 25. A FAX transmission / reception unit 26, a mail transmission unit 27, and the like.

  The control unit 21 controls each component, and includes a CPU 21a, a memory 21b such as a ROM and a RAM, an HDD 21c, a communication I / F unit 21d, and the like, which are connected via a bus. The CPU 21a controls each part. The memory 21b is a part that temporarily stores various data read from the HDD 21c, the image reading unit 24, and the communication I / F unit 21d. The stored data is subjected to image processing by the CPU 21a, and the HDD 21c or print is performed as necessary. Is transferred to the unit 25. The HDD 21c stores a program for the CPU 21a to control each unit and various data, and is read by the CPU 21a as necessary and executed on the memory 21b. The communication I / F unit 21d establishes a connection with a device connected via the communication network 30, and executes data transmission / reception.

  The HDD 21c includes an image storage unit that stores image data to be subjected to job processing in a preset hierarchical structure, and a setting history DB that stores information (setting history) input on the setting screen of each function. In the setting history DB, setting history information (referred to as common setting history) of items common to a plurality of functions (referred to as common setting items) and items specific to each function (referred to as function-specific setting items). Setting history information (referred to as function-specific setting history) and item setting history information (referred to as function-specific setting history) that can be set in each function as necessary.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 3B, the control unit 21 generates a job based on the data read by the image reading unit 24, the data received by the FAX transmitting / receiving unit 26, and the data read from the image storage unit. Based on the job generation unit and the job acquired from the job generation unit or the job generation unit of the computer apparatus 10, processing such as printing, FAX transmission, mail transmission, and data storage (hereinafter referred to as BOX storage) is executed. Judges whether the items set in the job processing section and setting screen are common setting items or function-specific setting items, and sorts and saves the set items and their setting values in the common setting history or function-specific setting history Function setting unit for controlling the screen displayed on the display unit 22 based on the setting history when setting the setting condition regarding the history processing unit and each function. To.

  The display unit 22 includes a liquid crystal display device, an organic EL display device, and the like, and displays a screen and the like for operating the image forming apparatus 20. The operation unit 23 includes buttons and switches, and performs various settings and instructions. The display unit 22 and the operation unit 23 may be separate devices, or may be an integrated device provided with a pressure-sensitive operation unit (touch panel) 23 in which transparent electrodes are arranged in a grid pattern on the display unit 22. In the case of a touch panel, the XY coordinates of a force point pressed with a finger or a touch pen are detected by a voltage value, and the detected position signal is output to the control unit 21 as an operation signal.

  The image reading unit 24 is a part that optically reads image data from a document sheet on a document table, a light source that scans the document, a CCD (Charge Coupled Devices) that converts light reflected from the document into an electrical signal, and the like. Image sensor and an A / D converter for A / D converting electrical signals.

  The printing unit 25 includes constituent elements necessary for image formation using an image forming process such as an electrophotographic method or an electrostatic recording method, and the image data read by the image reading unit 24 or the communication I / F unit 21d. An image is formed on the designated paper based on the image data (including PDL data) received through the network.

  The FAX transmitting / receiving unit 26 causes the printing unit 25 to print the image data received by FAX, and transmits the image data read by the image reading unit 24 to a set destination by FAX.

  The mail transmission unit 27 converts the image data read by the image reading unit 24 into a file such as PDF (Portable Document Format), TIFF (Tagged Image File Format), or JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group), and transmits the file attached to the mail. To do.

  In FIG. 3, four functions of the image forming apparatus 20 are illustrated as a print function, a FAX function, a mail function, and a data storage function. However, in the image forming apparatus 20 of this embodiment, some of the setting items are set. What is necessary is just to provide the several function which overlaps. In FIG. 1, the job processing system includes the computer apparatus 10 and the image forming apparatus 20, but a control apparatus such as a RIP (Raster Image Processor) controller that converts print data into image data is connected to the communication network 30. May be. In that case, the control apparatus may receive the setting history from the image forming apparatus 20 and transmit it to the computer apparatus 10.

  Next, a schematic operation of the job processing system configured as described above will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, when a function is selected on the screen displayed on the display unit 22 of the image forming apparatus 20 and setting conditions are input on the setting screen for each function, the control unit 21 (job generation unit) According to the setting value, a job is generated based on the image data read by the image reading unit 24, the image data received by FAX, and the image data read from the image storage unit. Further, when a printing condition is input on the setting screen displayed on the display unit 12 of the computer apparatus 10, the control unit 11 (job generation unit) generates a job according to the printing condition and transmits the job to the image forming apparatus 20. Then, the control unit (job processing unit) of the image forming apparatus 20 executes processing such as printing, FAX transmission, mail transmission, and BOX storage based on the job received from the job generation unit.

  Further, the setting conditions of the setting screen of the image forming apparatus 20 are sorted into a common setting history and a function-specific setting history by the control unit 21 (history processing unit) and stored in the setting history DB. And the control part 21 (setting part) displays a common setting item and its setting value with high use frequency based on a common setting log | history on a default setting screen, or high use frequency based on a function specific setting log | history. Display function-specific setting items and their setting values, and display frequently used setting items and their setting values based on the function-specific setting history that integrates the common setting history and function-specific setting history. Control the display of.

  Further, the control unit 11 (history processing unit) of the computer apparatus 10 acquires the common setting history, the function-specific setting history, and the function-specific setting history as necessary from the setting history DB of the image forming apparatus 20, and the control unit 11. The (setting unit) displays, on the default setting screen, common setting items and their setting values that are frequently used based on the acquired common setting history, and functions that are frequently used based on the acquired function-specific setting history. The display of the screen is controlled by displaying frequently used setting items and their setting values based on the acquired function-specific setting history displaying the unique setting items and their setting values.

  In FIG. 4A, the common setting history and the function-specific setting history are stored in the setting history DB. For example, in the case of an apparatus having two functions of the first function and the second function, FIG. As shown in b), the function-specific setting history is divided into a first function-specific setting history that is a function-specific setting history of the first function and a second function-specific setting history that is a function-specific setting history of the second function. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 4 (c), the common setting history is a first function common setting history that is a function common setting history of the first function and a second function that is a function common setting history of the second function. It may be stored separately from the common setting history.

  The history information stored in the setting history DB will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. Note that the image forming apparatus 20 has four functions of a copy function, a FAX transmission function, a print function, and a Scan to mail function.

  The setting items for the copy function include items relating to general copying (printing forms of originals and output materials, etc.), items relating to scanning of originals to be copied (double-sided / single-sided, color / monochrome, original image quality, resolution, etc.), and items relating to printing ( Double-sided / single-sided, page aggregation, color / monochrome, output paper, staple, stamp, etc.).

  The setting items of the FAX transmission function include items related to FAX transmission in general (FAX dedicated destination, FAX type, password setting, transmission source information addition, etc.), and items related to scanning of a document to be faxed (both sides / single side, color / monochrome). , Document image quality, resolution, etc.) and items related to data transmission (such as a destination when linking FAX transmission and mail transmission).

  In addition, print setting items include items relating to printing (double-sided / single-sided, page aggregation, color / monochrome, output paper, staple, stamp, and the like).

  The setting items for the Scan to mail function include items related to Scan to mail in general (mail recipients, file formats, email text, etc.), and items related to scanning email documents (double-sided / single-sided, color / monochrome, original image quality) , Resolution, etc.) and items related to data transmission (such as a destination when linking FAX transmission and mail transmission).

  As described above, in the image forming apparatus 20, the items that can be set for each function are not completely independent, and there are many overlapping items. For example, in the copy function, the FAX transmission function, and the Scan to mail function, since the original is scanned, items related to the original scan are common. In addition, since both the copy function and the print function perform printing, items related to printing are common. In addition, since the FAX transmission function and the Scan to mail function both transmit data, items related to data transmission are common.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, a setting item common to a plurality of functions, a setting value for the setting item, and the number of selections of the setting value (count, preferably count for each user ID) are described. The common setting history table is provided, and setting items specific to each function, setting values for the setting items, and the number of selections of the setting values (count, preferably count for each user ID) are described as shown in FIG. A function-specific history table is provided.

  Also, depending on the user, for example, there may be a difference between the printing conditions at the time of copying and the printing conditions at the time of printing. In this case, it is desirable to present a history that is tabulated by function. Therefore, in this embodiment, in addition to the common setting history table and the function-specific setting history table, as shown in FIG. 16, setting items that can be set by each function and setting values for the setting items are set as necessary. A function-specific setting history table describing the number of times (count, preferably count for each user ID) selected when the function is used is provided.

  The function-specific setting history table may be provided as an independent table, or may be obtained from the common setting history table and the function-specific setting history table when the history totaled by function is required. In this case, in the common setting history table, the number of times set by each function may be individually stored in addition to the count value obtained by summing the times set by a plurality of functions.

  The detailed operation of each device of the job processing system will be described below.

  First, operations when setting functions in the image forming apparatus 20 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 (Flowchart 1) shows the overall operation, FIG. 6 (Flowchart 1a) shows the detailed operation of S110, FIG. 7 (Flowchart 2) shows the detailed operation of S105, and FIG. 8 (Flowchart 3) shows the detailed operation of S107. Yes.

  The control unit 21 causes the display unit 22 to display a user authentication screen, and the user operates the operation unit 23 to input a user ID, a password, and the like. The control unit 21 performs user authentication by comparing the input information with information stored in advance in the HDD 21c or the like (S101).

  Next, the control unit 21 displays a function selection screen on the display unit 22, and the user operates the operation unit 23 to select a desired function (S102). Here, in order to simplify the description, it is assumed that one of printing, FAX transmission, FAX reception, and mail transmission is selected, and the case where the BOX output is selected will be described later.

  Next, the control unit 21 displays the default screen of the selected function on the display unit 22 (S103). The default screen 40 is configured as shown in FIG. 17, for example. When the copy function is selected, items (basic settings, aggregation / original, image quality / density, application settings, etc.) that can be set in the copy mode are tabbed. Sorted by and displayed. In addition, a button for instructing BOX storage, a button for instructing reference to the entire history, a button for instructing reference to history by function, and the like are displayed. The case where BOX storage is designated will be described later.

  At this stage, normal settings (input of setting conditions on the default setting screen and the setting screen switched on each tab) are also possible. However, in this embodiment, control is performed to enable setting based on the history. The unit 21 determines whether or not the entire history reference is instructed on the default screen 40 (S104), and when instructed, the frequently used setting item and its setting value based on the common setting history and the function-specific setting history The first history processing for presenting is performed (S105).

  The first history process will be specifically described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the control unit 21 (history processing unit) determines the function selected in step S102 (S201).

  When the copy function is selected, the control unit 21 (history processing unit) reads the common setting history related to printing and the common setting history related to document scanning from the setting history DB (S202, S203), and then the function related to copying. The unique setting history is read (S204). Thereafter, the control unit 21 (setting unit) presents common setting items and function-specific setting items that are frequently used and their setting values on the default screen based on the read history information (S213). For example, as shown in FIG. 18, the default screen when the copy mode is selected clearly indicates that items set in other modes are included, and common setting items that are frequently used (document reading setting and print setting in the figure) Field) and function-specific setting items (copy mode setting field in the figure) and a history screen displaying a list of the setting values are displayed in an overlapping manner.

  The number of items to be displayed on the history screen is arbitrary, and items having a usage frequency equal to or higher than a predetermined value may be displayed, or a predetermined number may be displayed in descending order of usage frequency. In the figure, three common setting items related to document scanning, three common setting items related to printing, and two function-specific setting items related to copying are displayed. It is sufficient that at least one item is displayed.

  Similarly, when the FAX transmission function is selected, the common setting history related to transmission and the common setting history related to document scanning are read from the setting history DB (S205, S206), and then the function-specific setting history related to FAX is read (S205, S206). S207). Thereafter, based on the read history information, common setting items and function-specific setting items that are frequently used and their setting values are presented on the default screen (S213).

  If the Scan to mail function is selected, the common setting history related to transmission and the common setting history related to document scanning are read from the setting history DB (S208, S209), and then the function-specific setting history related to Scan to mail is read. Read (S210). Thereafter, based on the read history information, common setting items and function-specific setting items that are frequently used and their setting values are presented on the default screen (S213).

  If the FAX reception function is selected, the common setting history related to printing is read from the setting history DB (S211), and then the function-specific setting history related to FAX is read (S212). Thereafter, based on the read history information, common setting items and function-specific setting items that are frequently used and their setting values are presented on the default screen (S213).

  Next, the control unit 21 (history processing unit) determines whether an item is selected on the history screen (S214, S215), and if an item is selected, the setting is reflected (setting contents are stored in the memory). (S216). Thereafter, the control unit 21 (setting unit) deletes the history screen (S217), and ends the first history process.

  Returning to FIG. 5, the control unit 21 determines whether the function-specific history reference is instructed on the default screen 40 (S <b> 106), and when instructed, the control unit 21 frequently uses the function based on the setting history of the selected function. A second history process for presenting setting items and setting values is performed (S107).

  The second history process will be specifically described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the control unit 21 (history processing unit) determines the function selected in step S102 (S301).

  When the copy function is selected, the control unit 21 (history processing unit) reads the function-specific setting history related to copying from the setting history DB (S302). Thereafter, the control unit 21 (setting unit) presents setting items and their setting values that are frequently used on the default screen based on the read history information (S306). For example, as shown in FIG. 19, on the default screen when the copy mode is selected, a history screen that clearly displays that the item is selected in the copy mode and displays a list of frequently used setting items and their setting values is displayed. Overlapping display.

  Similarly, when the FAX transmission function is selected, the setting history for each function related to FAX is read from the setting history DB (S303), and based on the read history information, the frequently used setting items and their settings are displayed on the default screen. A value is presented (S306).

  If the Scan to mail function is selected, the function-specific setting history related to Scan to mail is read from the setting history DB (S304). Based on the read history information, frequently used setting items and The set value is presented (S306).

  If the FAX reception function is selected, the setting history for each function related to FAX is read from the setting history DB (S305), and the setting items frequently used on the default screen and their setting values are read based on the read history information. Is presented (S306).

  Next, the control unit 21 (history processing unit) determines whether an item is selected on the history screen (S307, S308), and if an item is selected, reflects the setting (stores the setting content in the memory). (S309).

  Thereafter, the control unit 21 (setting unit) deletes the history screen (S310), and ends the second history process.

  Referring back to FIG. 5 again, the control unit 21 determines whether or not the start button has been pressed (S108). If not, the control unit 21 returns to step S104 and repeats the same processing. On the other hand, when the start button is pressed, the control unit 21 (job processing unit) executes the job (S109) and updates the count of the item selected on the history screen (S110). Note that “history recording” in S110 may be performed immediately after S108 when the setting condition is fixed. However, since the user may notice an error in the setting condition during job execution and may interrupt the job, It should be recorded after execution is complete.

  Next, the control unit 21 (history processing unit) records the date and setting contents of each job as a history (S111), extracts job records within a predetermined period (for example, one week) (S112), and extracts them. Based on the job record, the number of settings for each setting item is totaled, and the common setting history table, the function-specific setting history table, and the function-specific setting history table are updated (S113). In the processing of FIG. 6, each setting history table is updated every time the job is executed in S112 and S113. However, the setting history table may be updated periodically, for example, when the power is turned on.

  Next, operations when setting functions in the computer apparatus 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 13. 9 (Flowchart 4) shows the overall operation of the printer driver, FIG. 10 (Flowchart 5) shows the detailed operation of S404, and FIG. 11 (Flowchart 6) shows the detailed operation of S406. 12 (flowchart 7) and FIG. 13 (flowchart 8) show the operation of the image forming apparatus 20.

  The control unit 11 (printer driver) displays a user authentication screen on the display unit 12, and the user operates the operation unit 13 to input a user ID, a password, and the like. The control unit 11 performs user authentication by comparing the input information with information stored in advance in the HDD 11c or the like (S401).

  Next, the control unit 11 displays a default screen for the print function on the display unit 12 (S402). This default screen has the same configuration as that shown in FIG. 17, and items that can be set by the print function are classified and displayed by tabs. In addition, a button for instructing reference to the entire history, a button for instructing reference to function-specific history, and the like are displayed.

  At this stage, normal settings (input of setting conditions on the default setting screen and the setting screen switched on each tab) are also possible. However, in this embodiment, control is performed to enable setting based on the history. The unit 11 determines whether the entire history reference is instructed on the default screen (S403), and if so, presents frequently used setting items and setting values based on the common setting history and the function-specific setting history. The first history processing is performed (S404).

  The first history process will be specifically described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 10 and 12.

  First, the control unit 11 (history processing unit) acquires a common setting history related to printing (S501). Specifically, a history request command for requesting a common setting history regarding printing is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 20. As shown in FIG. 12, when receiving the history request command, the image forming apparatus 20 determines whether the request is a common setting history related to printing (S701). Here, since it is a request for a common setting history related to printing, the common setting history related to printing is read from the HDD 21c or the like (S703) and transmitted to the driver (S704).

  Next, based on the read history information, the control unit 11 (setting unit) causes the default screen to superimpose and display a history screen displaying a list of frequently used common setting items and their setting values (S502).

  Next, the control unit 11 determines whether an item is selected on the history screen (S503, S504), and when an item is selected, reflects the setting (stores the setting content in the memory) (S505). Thereafter, the control unit 11 (setting unit) deletes the history screen (S506), and ends the first history process.

  Returning to FIG. 9, the control unit 11 determines whether function-specific history reference is instructed on the default screen (S405), and if specified, setting items that are frequently used based on the setting history of the used function and A second history process for presenting a set value is performed (S406).

  The second history process will be specifically described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

  First, the control unit 11 (history processing unit) acquires a function-specific setting history related to printing (S601). Specifically, a history request command for requesting a setting history for each function related to printing is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 20. As shown in FIG. 12, when receiving the history request command, the image forming apparatus 20 determines whether the request is a common setting history related to printing (S701). Here, since it is not a request for a common setting history relating to printing, the setting history for each function relating to printing is read from the HDD 21c or the like (S702) and transmitted to the driver (S704).

  Next, based on the read history information, the control unit 11 (setting unit) causes the default screen to display a history screen displaying a list of frequently used setting items and their setting values in a superimposed manner (S602).

  Next, the control unit 11 determines whether an item is selected on the history screen (S603, S604), and when an item is selected, reflects the setting (stores the setting content in a memory) (S605).

  Thereafter, the control unit 11 (setting unit) deletes the history screen (S606) and ends the second history process.

  Returning to FIG. 9 again, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the OK button has been pressed on the default screen (S407). If not, the control unit 11 returns to step S403 and repeats the same processing. On the other hand, when the OK button is pressed, the control unit 11 generates job data (S408), adds setting information (the selected setting item and its setting value) to the job data (S409), and forms an image. A job is transmitted to the apparatus 20 (S410).

  In S408 and S409, settings relating to image processing (for example, enlargement, reduction, 2in1, stamping, etc.) are processed on the driver side to generate image data for printing. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 20 cannot distinguish whether the received image data is the original document image or the image data processed by the user setting. Accordingly, in step S409, setting information including not only setting conditions processed by the image forming apparatus 20 but also setting conditions already processed (settings related to image processing) is given.

  On the other hand, in the image forming apparatus 20, as shown in FIG. 13, upon receiving a job, the control unit 21 executes the job (S801), and counts each setting history table based on the setting information given to the job. Is updated (S802).

  Next, the operation when the BOX output is selected in the function selection in S102 of FIG. 5 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  Note that BOX output and BOX storage may be output and stored in the same folder as in the case of output or storage in separate folders, respectively. A history table (a folder history (save + output) as a common setting history table and a folder history (save) and a folder history (output) as function-specific setting history tables) is recorded in advance.

  First, the control unit 21 reads history information from the folder history (storage + output) table and the folder history (output) table (S901).

  Next, the control unit 21 displays the folder selection screen 43 in the BOX output mode as shown in FIG. 23 on the display unit 22 (S902). In the folder selection screen 43, a field for inputting a file name and a folder name frequently used based on the folder history (output) are displayed, and a frequently used folder name is displayed based on the folder history (save + output). The folder name is also displayed.

  Next, the control unit 21 determines whether a folder has been selected (S903), and if selected, reflects the folder name (stores it in the memory) (S904). On the other hand, if not selected, it is determined whether or not the history has been switched (S905). If the history has been switched, storage + output and output are switched (S906). Then, it is determined whether or not the OK button on the folder selection screen 43 has been pressed (S907). If not, the process returns to step S903 and the same processing is repeated.

  On the other hand, when the OK button is pressed, a function selection screen 44 as shown in FIG. 24 is displayed on the display unit 22 to allow the user to select a function (S909, S910).

  When one of the functions of printing, FAX transmission, and Scan to mail is selected, a default screen is displayed on the display unit 22 as in FIG. 5 (S911). At this stage, normal settings (input of setting conditions on the default setting screen and the setting screen switched in each tab) are also possible, but in this embodiment, in order to enable setting based on the history, When the history reference is instructed (Yes in S912), the first history processing is performed (S913). When the function-specific history reference is instructed (Yes in S914), the second history processing is performed (S915). Is pressed (Yes in S916), the job is executed (S917), and the folder history is updated (S918).

  The first history process and the second history process are the same as those in FIG. 7 (flow chart 2) and FIG. 8 (flow chart 3), but the target functions are print, FAX, and scan to mail. The difference is that there are three.

  Next, an operation when BOX storage is designated on the setting screen in S103 of FIG. 5 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  The control unit 21 reads history information from the folder history (save + output) table and the folder history (save) table (S1001).

  Next, the control unit 21 causes the display unit 22 to display a folder selection screen in the BOX storage mode (S1002). In this folder selection screen, a field for inputting a file name, a folder name frequently used based on the folder history (save), and a folder frequently used based on the folder history (save + output) are displayed. The name is displayed.

  Next, the control unit 21 determines whether a folder has been selected (S1003), and if selected, reflects the folder name (stores it in the memory) (S1004). On the other hand, if it is not selected, it is determined whether or not history switching has been performed (S1005). If switching has been performed, storage + output and storage are switched (S1006). When the OK button on the folder selection screen is pressed (Yes in S1007), the process ends.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the setting history DB includes setting history of items common to a plurality of functions (common setting history), setting history of items specific to each function (function-specific setting history), and necessary. Accordingly, the setting history of items that can be set for each function (setting history for each function) is stored, and when the setting screen for each function is displayed, the setting history is set based on the function-specific setting history or the setting history for each function. Not only the setting items and their setting values that are frequently used by functions, but also the setting items and their setting values that are frequently used by other functions based on the common setting history. Can be done effectively.

  Next, a multifunction peripheral, a job processing system, and a printer driver according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 25 and 26. FIG. FIG. 25 is a diagram showing a schematic operation of the job processing system, and FIG. 26 is a diagram showing an example of a table stored in the DB.

  In the first embodiment described above, the setting items for each function are classified into common setting items and function-specific setting items, and the setting results of each setting item are divided into a common setting history table and a function-specific setting history table and aggregated. However, it is also possible to store these together and extract the history information necessary for the history processing.

  Therefore, in the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 26, a table (setting item-function correspondence table) for associating setting items with functions in the setting history DB, and a table (settings for each setting item) (settings). Item summary tables), and history information is managed in these tables.

  The configuration of the job processing system in this case is the same as that of the first embodiment. However, as shown in FIG. 25, when the setting screen for each function is displayed, the control unit 21 (history processing unit) of the image forming apparatus 20 is displayed. ) Extracts setting items related to the function to be set based on the setting item-function correspondence table, and performs history extraction processing for obtaining a total value for the setting item based on the setting item totaling table. In addition, the control unit 21 (setting unit) of the image forming apparatus 20 performs control to display frequently set items and setting values on the default setting screen based on the history extraction result. Further, the control unit 11 (history processing unit) of the computer apparatus 10 acquires the history extraction result from the image forming apparatus 20, and the control unit 11 (setting unit) displays the frequency on the default setting screen based on the history extraction result. Control to display high setting items and setting values.

  As described above, when the setting screen of each function is displayed by storing the setting item-function correspondence table and the setting item totaling table in the setting history DB, the setting item frequently used in the function and its function Since not only the set value is displayed but also the setting items frequently used by other functions and the set values thereof can be displayed, the function can be set more effectively.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to the said Example, The structure and control can be changed suitably, unless it deviates from the meaning of this invention.

  For example, in each of the above embodiments, the setting history DB is provided in the image forming apparatus 20, but the setting history DB may be provided in an external server or the like. In this case, in S110 of the flowchart 1 in FIG. 5, the setting result is notified to the server every time the job is executed, and the process of the flowchart 1a in FIG.

  In each of the above embodiments, the configuration history of one image forming apparatus 20 is aggregated. However, the aggregation results of the configuration histories of other image forming apparatuses connected to the network are acquired, and the own history is aggregated. You may make it integrate into a value. Further, when the setting history DB is provided in the server as described above, the server may acquire setting histories from a plurality of image forming apparatuses and aggregate them in a unified manner.

  In the above embodiment, the history information is acquired from the image forming apparatus 20 every time setting is performed by the printer driver. May use the saved setting history DB. The former embodiment is preferable when it is not desired to consume the storage capacity of the storage unit in the computer apparatus 10, but when the storage capacity is sufficient, the latter can reduce communication traffic and communication time. Is unnecessary, it is possible to present history information quickly.

  Further, when the printer driver is configured to always reside in the computer apparatus 10 in a state where the printer driver is started up, the setting history is periodically obtained and a copy of the DB is stored in the computer apparatus 10. May be. Alternatively, the DB may be periodically obtained by a resident application different from the printer driver and a copy of the DB may be saved.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the count is totaled for each setting item. However, the count may be similarly totaled for a combination of a plurality of setting items.

  The present invention can be used for an image forming apparatus (multifunction peripheral) having a plurality of functions, a job processing system including the image forming apparatus, and a printer driver that operates on a computer device that transmits a job to the image forming apparatus.

10 Computer Device 11 Control Unit 11a CPU
11b Memory 11c HDD
11d Communication I / F unit 12 Display unit 13 Operation unit 20 Image forming apparatus 21 Control unit 21a CPU
21b Memory 21c HDD
21d Communication I / F part 22 Display part 23 Operation part 24 Image reading part 25 Printing part 26 FAX transmission / reception part 27 mail transmission part 30 Communication network 40 Default screen 41 Default screen at the time of whole history button operation 42 When the history button by function is operated Default screen 43 Folder selection screen in BOX output mode 44 Function selection screen in BOX output mode

Claims (11)

Copy function, function to print data received from computer device, function to print FAX received data, function to send scanned data by FAX, function to send scanned data attached to e-mail, and to send scanned data A multifunction device having at least two functions selected from the functions to be stored;
The two functions are different in at least part of the setting conditions for each function,
A first setting unit for setting a setting condition related to the first function;
A first job processing unit that executes a job under the setting conditions set by the first setting unit;
A setting history storage unit for storing a history of setting conditions set by the first setting unit;
A second setting unit for setting setting conditions related to the second function;
A second job processing unit that executes a job under the setting conditions set by the second setting unit,
The second setting unit generates and displays a setting screen to be presented to the user based on a part of the setting conditions related to the first function stored in the setting history storage unit.
A multi-function machine characterized by this. The second setting unit displays a setting condition related to the second function among setting conditions related to the first function stored in the setting history storage unit on the setting screen.
The multifunction device according to claim 1. The second setting unit displays a setting condition having a relatively high setting frequency on the setting screen among the setting conditions related to the first function stored in the setting history storage unit.
The multifunction device according to claim 1, wherein the multifunction device is a multi-function device. History processing for separating the setting condition set by the first setting unit from the setting condition unique to the first function and the setting condition common to the second function and storing the setting condition in the setting history storage unit Having a part,
The multifunction device according to claim 1, wherein the multifunction device is a multi-function device. Copy function, function to print data received from computer device, function to print FAX received data, function to send scanned data by FAX, function to send scanned data by attaching it to e-mail, and to scan data A multifunction device having at least two functions selected from the functions to be stored;
A first setting unit for setting a setting condition related to the first function;
A first job processing unit for executing a job under the setting conditions set by the first setting unit;
A second setting unit for setting setting conditions related to the second function;
A second job processing unit that executes a job under the setting conditions set by the second setting unit;
A setting history storage unit for storing a history of setting conditions set by the first setting unit and a history of setting conditions set by the second setting unit;
The first setting unit includes a setting condition common to the first function and the second function among setting conditions stored in the setting history storage unit, and a setting condition unique to the first function. And generating and displaying a setting screen to be presented to the user based on
The second setting unit includes a setting condition common to the first function and the second function among setting conditions stored in the setting history storage unit, and a setting condition specific to the second function. And generating and displaying a setting screen to be presented to the user based on
A multi-function machine characterized by this. In a job processing system in which a computer apparatus that generates and transmits a job and an image forming apparatus that executes the job are connected via a communication network.
The image forming apparatus includes:
A print function for printing data received from the computer device, a copy function, a function for printing data received by FAX, a function for FAX sending scanned data, a function for sending scanned data attached to an e-mail, and scanning At least one other function selected from among the functions for storing the selected data,
The print function and the other function are different in at least a part of the setting conditions for each function,
The computer device includes:
A setting unit for setting setting conditions regarding the print function;
A job generation unit that generates a job with the setting conditions set by the setting unit;
A history processing unit that acquires a history of setting conditions related to the other functions set in the image forming apparatus,
The setting unit generates and displays a setting screen to be presented to the user based on a part of the acquired setting conditions related to the other functions.
A job processing system characterized by that. The setting unit displays the setting condition related to the print function among the acquired setting conditions related to the other function on the setting screen.
The job processing system according to claim 6. The setting unit displays a setting condition having a relatively high setting frequency among the acquired setting conditions related to the other function on the setting screen.
The job processing system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein A printer driver that operates on a computer device connected to an image forming apparatus via a communication network,
The image forming apparatus includes:
A print function for printing data received from the computer device, a copy function, a function for printing data received by FAX, a function for FAX sending scanned data, a function for sending scanned data attached to an e-mail, and scanning At least one other function selected from among the functions for storing the selected data,
The print function and the other function are different in at least a part of the setting conditions for each function,
Said computer device,
A setting unit for setting a setting condition relating to the print function;
A job generation unit that generates a job with the setting conditions set by the setting unit;
Function as a history processing unit that acquires a history of setting conditions related to the other functions set in the image forming apparatus;
The setting unit generates and displays a setting screen to be presented to the user based on a part of the acquired setting conditions related to the other functions.
A printer driver characterized by that. The setting unit displays the setting condition related to the print function among the acquired setting conditions related to the other function on the setting screen.
The printer driver according to claim 9. The setting unit displays a setting condition having a relatively high setting frequency among the acquired setting conditions related to the other function on the setting screen.
The printer driver according to claim 9, wherein the printer driver is a printer driver.

Images