JP2012252473A - Printing apparatus, printing system, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a printing apparatus and a related technique capable of flexibly determining recommended setting without depending on a uniformed criterion.SOLUTION: A printing system includes a setting history management unit 17 and a recommended setting determination unit 18. The setting history management unit 17 stores print setting data BSi used for printing in the past in a print setting data storage unit 5b. Then, the recommended setting determination unit 18 determines recommended setting corresponding to the print setting at a time of new print processing, on the basis of the print setting data stored in the print setting data storage unit 5b.

Description

  The present invention relates to a printing apparatus and related technology.

  In the printing apparatus, print processing is executed based on various print settings.

  For example, there is a print setting called “Nin1” setting. The “Nin1” setting is a print setting in which N documents are arranged on one print sheet.

  In such Nin1 setting, if a large value N is set, printing paper can be saved. However, if a value that is too large is set as the value N, there are also problems such as the characters becoming too small and difficult to see. Therefore, it is preferable to determine an appropriately large value N.

  For example, Patent Document 1 describes a technique for detecting an inappropriate value N.

  Patent Document 1 describes a technique for determining whether or not the “Nin1” setting is inappropriate based on the criteria described in the determination table. More specifically, the determination table describes reference values relating to the number of documents, the character size, etc. for each “Nin1” setting (for each value N). For example, for “2 in 1”, reference values such as “1” for the number of documents and “8 points or less” for the character size are described. Then, when the print instruction is 2 in 1 and the number of pages of the original is 1 and / or the character size included in the print data is 8 P (points) or less, it is determined that the “2 in 1” instruction is inappropriate. Is done.

JP-A-2005-67131

  By the way, in the technique described in Patent Document 1, a fixed value is used as a reference value for detecting an inappropriate value N. Therefore, only a uniform judgment can be obtained.

  However, an inappropriate value N (in other words, an appropriate value N) may differ depending on various characteristics at the delivery destination of the printing apparatus. For example, an appropriate value for a customer that prints many documents that contain characters with a relatively large number of points (font size) and a customer that prints many documents that contain characters with a relatively small number of points. N is different.

  Alternatively, the appropriate value N may differ depending on the age group of the user of the printing apparatus. For example, it is felt that the print output by “4 in 1” is difficult for an elderly user (“2 in 1” is the minimum magnification while ensuring visibility), while for a young user, May be felt to be sufficiently easy to see even with a print output of “4 in 1”.

  As described above, when the value N is determined based on the fixed reference value as described above, the recommended value N (in other words, the recommended setting “Nin1”) may not always be appropriately determined.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a printing apparatus and related technology capable of more flexibly determining recommended settings without relying on uniform judgment criteria.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the invention of claim 1 is a printing system, a setting history management means for storing print setting data used for past printing in a print setting data storage means, and the print setting data storage. Determining means for determining a recommended setting relating to a print setting at the time of new print processing based on at least one print setting data stored in the means.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the printing system according to the first aspect of the invention, the setting history management means is a series of print processes for each print target data, and is a series of print outputs that are performed a plurality of times or once. The print setting data relating to each print target data is stored as needed each time the print process is performed.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the printing system according to the second aspect of the invention, the setting history management unit evaluates the print setting data at the time of the first printing of the past print target data, and the print setting The data is stored by classifying into good setting data and bad setting data.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the printing system according to the third aspect of the invention, the setting history management unit, when the series of printing processes is completed without changing the settings, print settings for the series of printing processes. The print setting data that is data and does not need to be changed is classified and stored as good setting data, and when reprinting is performed with the setting change in the series of print processing, the print setting data that needs to be changed The pre-change data that is the pre-change print setting data is classified and stored as defect setting data, and the post-change data that is the post-change print setting data with respect to the pre-change print setting data is used as the improvement setting data. It is stored in association with the defect setting data.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the printing system according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the determination means includes at least one reference data extracted as satisfying one or more conditions from the at least one print setting data. Based on the above, the recommended setting is determined.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the printing system according to the fifth aspect, the at least one print setting data includes a plurality of print setting data related to printing by a plurality of users classified into a plurality of age groups. The determination unit satisfies the first condition that the print setting data relates to a user of the same age group who is a user who belongs to the same age group as the age group of the print setter who executes the new print process. The print setting data to be extracted is extracted as the at least one reference data, and the recommended setting is determined based on the at least one reference data.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the printing system according to the fifth aspect of the invention, each of the at least one print setting data includes a setting content related to a Nin1 setting item, and the determining means is Nin1 in the new printing process. Print setting data satisfying a second condition that the print setting data has the same setting content as the setting content related to the setting item is extracted as the at least one reference data, and the print data is extracted based on the at least one reference data. The recommended setting is determined.

  The invention of claim 8 is the printing system according to the invention of claim 7, wherein the at least one print setting data includes a plurality of print setting data related to printing by a plurality of users classified into a plurality of age groups. The determination means includes a first condition that the print setting data relates to a user of the same age group who is a user who belongs to the same age group as the age group of the print setter who executes the new print process, and Print setting data that satisfies both of the second condition is extracted as the at least one reference data, and the recommended setting is determined based on the at least one reference data.

  According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the printing system according to any one of the sixth to eighth aspects, the determining means is a representative having the same representative font size as the character in the print target data in the new printing process. Extracting the print setting data that also satisfies the third condition that the print setting data relates to the font size as the at least one reference data, and determining the recommended setting based on the at least one reference data; Features.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the printing system according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, when the all of the at least one reference data is the good setting data, the determining unit performs printing by the user at the time of the new print processing. The setting is determined as the recommended setting as it is.

  According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the printing system according to the seventh aspect of the invention, the at least one reference data includes a plurality of reference data, and the determination unit sets the defect setting among the plurality of reference data. When the evaluation value of the data occupation ratio is larger than a predetermined reference value, the Nin1 setting content in the improvement setting data associated with the defect setting data among the plurality of reference data is determined as the recommended setting. And

  According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, in the printing system according to the seventh aspect of the invention, the at least one reference data includes a plurality of reference data, and the determination unit sets the defect setting among the plurality of reference data. When the evaluation value of the data occupancy rate is larger than a predetermined reference value, the Nin1 setting content of the minimum magnification in the improvement setting data associated with the defect setting data among the plurality of reference data is determined as the recommended setting. It is characterized by that.

  According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the printing system according to the fifth aspect of the invention, the at least one reference data has a plurality of reference data, and the determining means is the good setting of the plurality of reference data. When the evaluation value of the data occupation ratio is larger than a predetermined reference value, the print setting at the time of the new print process is determined as the recommended setting as it is.

  According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in the printing system according to the fifth aspect of the invention, the at least one reference data has a plurality of reference data, and the determination means sets the good setting of the plurality of reference data. The evaluation value of the data occupancy rate is presented to the user as a satisfaction degree regarding the print setting at the time of the new print process.

  According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, in the printing system according to the seventh aspect of the invention, the at least one reference data has a plurality of reference data, and the determining means is the defect setting of the plurality of reference data. The evaluation value of the data occupancy rate is presented to the user as the degree of dissatisfaction regarding the print setting at the time of the new print processing.

  According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, in the printing system according to the fifteenth aspect of the invention, the determining means sets the minimum magnification Nin1 setting content in the improvement setting data associated with the defect setting data among the plurality of reference data. Is determined as the recommended setting.

  According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, in the printing system according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the setting history management unit further includes an importance level acquisition unit that acquires the importance level of new print target data related to the new print process. Manages information on the font size before and after the change when the reprinting is performed with the change of the font size of the character for each print target data, and the determining means includes the new print target The recommended setting is determined using information related to the font size of the type corresponding to the importance of the data and stored as the improvement setting data.

  According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, in the printing system according to the seventeenth aspect of the invention, the pre-change data has information on a maximum font size that is a size of the largest character in the print target data corresponding to the pre-change data. The post-change data has information on a maximum font size that is the size of the largest character in the print target data corresponding to the post-change data, and the determining means determines that the importance of the new print target data is first. If it is smaller than the reference value of 1, the maximum font size changed in the post-change data is recommended as the maximum font size of characters after correction of the new print target data.

  According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, in the printing system according to the eighteenth aspect of the invention, the pre-change data includes information on a minimum font size that is a size of a smallest character in print target data corresponding to the pre-change data. The post-change data has information on a minimum font size that is the size of the smallest character in the print target data corresponding to the post-change data, and the determining means determines that the importance of the new print target data is first. If it is larger than the reference value of 2, the minimum font size changed in the post-change data is recommended as the minimum font size of characters after correction of the new print target data.

  According to a twentieth aspect of the invention, in the printing system according to the nineteenth aspect of the invention, the pre-change data includes information on a representative font size that is a representative character size in print target data corresponding to the pre-change data. The post-change data includes information on a representative font size that is a representative character size in the print target data corresponding to the post-change data, and the determination unit determines the importance of the new print target data. Is present between the first reference value and the second reference value, the representative font size changed in the changed data is set as the representative font size of the character after the correction of the new print target data. It is recommended that

  According to a twenty-first aspect of the invention, in the printing system according to the fourth aspect of the invention, the setting history managing means performs reprinting with a change in the font size of the characters for each print target data. Information on the font size before and after the change is also managed, and the pre-change data has information on the maximum font size that is the size of the largest character in the print target data corresponding to the pre-change data, and the post-change data Has information on the maximum font size, which is the size of the largest character in the print target data corresponding to the changed data, and the determining means sets the maximum font size changed in the changed data to the new font size. Recommended as the maximum font size of characters after correction of new print target data related to print processing

  According to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, in the printing system according to the third aspect of the invention, the determining means is smaller than the number of printed sheets according to the print setting of the user with respect to the new print processing among the print settings of the good setting data. A print setting for realizing the number of prints is determined as the recommended setting.

  According to a twenty-third aspect of the present invention, in the printing system according to the third aspect of the invention, the setting history managing means outputs the first copy when generating a plurality of copies of printed output in the series of printing processes. In the confirmation print mode in which the print output result is confirmed and whether or not the remaining number of copies is continuously printed with the same print settings is determined. When print setting data at the time of printing the first copy is classified into the defect setting data, and no setting change is made to the print setting at the first copy, the print setting data at the time of printing the first copy Are classified into the good setting data.

  According to a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, in the printing system according to the third aspect of the invention, the setting history managing means defines a certain print target data when generating a printed output in the series of printing processes. It is determined whether or not reprinting has been performed within a time period, and when the second printing, which is reprinting with a setting change for the print setting at the time of the first printing, has been performed within a specified time, When the print setting data at the time of the first printing is classified into the defect setting data, and reprinting with a setting change for the print setting at the time of the first printing is not performed within the specified time, The print setting data at the time of printing 1 is classified into the good setting data.

  According to a twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a printing apparatus, a setting history management unit for storing print setting data used for past printing in a print setting data storage unit, and at least stored in the print setting data storage unit. And determining means for determining a recommended setting related to a print setting at the time of a new print process based on one print setting data.

  According to a twenty-sixth aspect of the present invention, in a computer, a) a step of storing print setting data used for past printing in a print setting data storage unit; b) at least one stored in the print setting data storage unit And a step of determining a recommended setting related to a print setting at the time of a new print process based on the print setting data.

  According to the first to twenty-sixth aspects of the present invention, the recommended setting for the print setting at the time of a new print process is determined based on the print setting data used for the past printing. It is possible to determine recommended settings more flexibly without relying on criteria.

  In particular, according to the second aspect of the present invention, since past print setting data can be automatically accumulated, an increase in user burden can be suppressed.

  In particular, according to the fourth aspect of the invention, the recommended setting can be determined based on the improvement setting data.

  In particular, according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the reference data reflecting the elements of the user's age group can be extracted. Therefore, the recommended setting is determined by appropriately reflecting the elements of the user's age group. It is possible.

  In particular, according to the invention described in claim 11, since the Nin1 setting content in the improvement setting data is determined as a recommended setting, printing paper saving is appropriately promoted while preventing the reduction ratio from becoming excessive. It is possible.

  In particular, according to the seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the recommended setting is determined using information related to the font size of the type corresponding to the importance of the new print target data and stored as the improvement setting data. Therefore, characters of various sizes according to the importance can be printed easily.

  In particular, according to the invention described in claim 21, since the maximum font size changed in the post-change data is recommended as the maximum font size of the character after the new print target data is corrected, At least, it is possible to make the largest character easy to see.

  In particular, according to the invention described in claim 22, among the print settings of the good setting data, a print setting that realizes a print number smaller than the number of prints by the user print setting for the new print processing is determined as the recommended setting. Therefore, economical print settings are preferentially recommended. Therefore, it is particularly useful for users who place importance on economy.

1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a printing system. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of an MFP (printing apparatus). 5 is a flowchart illustrating an operation for accumulating print setting data. 5 is a flowchart showing a part of the operation of FIG. 4 (in the confirmation print mode). 5 is a flowchart showing a part of the operation of FIG. 4 (in normal printing mode). It is a figure which shows the classification | category of an age group. It is a figure which shows accumulation | storage data. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation for determining a print setting for new print target data. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement in normal mode. 10 is a flowchart showing a part of the operation of FIG. 9. 10 is a flowchart showing a part of the operation of FIG. 9. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement in importance mode. It is a flowchart which shows a part of operation | movement of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows a part of operation | movement of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement in the maximum point priority mode. It is a flowchart which shows the one part operation | movement of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the one part operation | movement of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement in eco mode. It is a flowchart which shows the one part operation | movement of FIG. It is a figure which shows the screen which sets the importance of a printing object document. It is a figure which shows the display screen of recommended setting. It is a figure which shows the display screen of recommended setting. It is a figure which shows the display screen of the satisfaction with respect to present setting. It is a figure which shows the display screen (including dissatisfaction degree display) of a recommended setting. It is a figure which shows the display screen of recommended setting. It is a figure which shows the display screen of recommended setting. It is a figure which shows the display screen (eco-mode) of recommended setting. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement which concerns on the modified example of normal mode. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement which concerns on another modified example of normal mode. It is a figure which shows the other example of accumulation | storage data. It is a figure which shows the display screen of the recommended setting which concerns on a modification.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

<1. System overview>
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of the printing system 100.

  As illustrated in FIG. 1, the printing system 100 includes a printing apparatus 10 having a print output mechanism and the like, and a computer 90 that transmits print output data and the like related to print target data to the printing apparatus 10.

  The computer 90 includes a CPU, a semiconductor memory (RAM, etc.), a hard disk, and the like. The computer 90 implements various functions by executing various software programs (hereinafter also simply referred to as programs) using the CPU or the like. The computer 90 includes a display unit (display, etc.) and an operation input unit (keyboard, mouse, etc.), and can perform display output operations and operation input operations of various types of information.

  Specifically, a predetermined OS (operating system) is installed in the computer 90, and the computer 90 can execute various application software programs (also simply referred to as “programs”) PG1 on the OS. It is. For example, the computer 90 can execute a program PG1 such as document creation software. The computer 90 can also perform a creation operation and an editing operation (an operation for changing the character size (character font size), etc.) for the print target document (print target file) in the program PG1.

  The computer 90 can also execute an application software program (printer driver program (also simply referred to as a printer driver)) PG2 for controlling the printing operation. For example, the printer driver PG2 is called from the application software program PG1 and executed. The printer driver PG2 performs various print settings related to the print target file based on a setting operation from the user, and causes the printing apparatus 10 to print out the print target file based on a print instruction from the user.

  The programs PG1 and PG2 may be downloaded and acquired via a network, or may be acquired via various portable recording media (CD-ROM, USB memory, etc.). May be.

<1-1. Configuration>
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a printing apparatus (also referred to as an image forming apparatus) 10. Here, it is assumed that the printing apparatus 10 is configured as a multi-function peripheral (also abbreviated as MFP). The MFP is a device (also referred to as a multifunction device) having a scanner function, a printer function, a copy function, a data communication function, and the like.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the MFP 10 includes an image reading unit 2, a print output unit 3, a communication unit 4, a storage unit 5, an input / output unit 6, a controller 9, and the like, and these units are operated in a complex manner. Various functions are realized.

  The image reading unit 2 is a processing unit that optically reads a document placed at a predetermined position of the MFP 10 and generates image data (also referred to as a document image) of the document.

  The print output unit 3 is an output unit that prints an image on various media such as paper based on image data related to the target image.

  The communication unit 4 is a processing unit capable of performing facsimile communication via a public line or the like. Further, the communication unit 4 can perform network communication via the network NW. In this network communication, various protocols such as TCP / IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol) and FTP (File Transfer Protocol) are used. By using the network communication, the MFP 10 can communicate with a desired destination. Various data can be exchanged between them.

  The storage unit 5 includes a storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD) and a nonvolatile memory. The storage unit 5 is provided with a print setting data storage unit 5b (described later).

  The input / output unit 6 includes an operation input unit 6a that receives input to the MFP 10 and a display unit 6b that displays and outputs various types of information. The input / output unit 6 is also referred to as an operation unit.

  Specifically, the MFP 10 is provided with an operation panel unit that functions as the input / output unit 6. The operation panel unit includes various hard keys and a touch screen 63 (not shown).

  The touch screen 63 is configured by embedding a piezoelectric sensor or the like in a liquid crystal display panel, and functions as a part of the display unit 6b and also functions as a part of the operation input unit 6a. Specifically, the touch screen 63 can display various types of information on the liquid crystal display panel, and can also detect various types of input by detecting the operation position of the operator's fingers with respect to the liquid crystal display panel. It is. For example, when a virtual button displayed on the touch screen 63 is touched by an operator's finger, such an operation is regarded as a pressing operation on the virtual button.

  The controller 9 is a control unit that controls the MFP 10 in an integrated manner, and includes a CPU and various semiconductor memories (such as a RAM and a ROM). Various functions of the MFP 10 are realized by various processing units operating under the control of the controller 9. The controller 9 implements various processing units by executing a predetermined software program (hereinafter also simply referred to as a program) PG3 stored in a ROM (for example, an EEPROM) in the CPU. The program PG3 or the like may be downloaded and acquired via a network, or may be acquired via various portable recording media (USB memory or the like).

  Specifically, the controller 9 includes various processing units including an input control unit 11, a display control unit 12, a print target data acquisition unit 15, an importance level acquisition unit 16, a setting history management unit 17, a recommended setting determination unit 18, and the like. Is realized.

  The input control unit 11 is a processing unit that accepts various instruction inputs from the user.

  The display control unit 13 is a processing unit that controls display operations for displaying various screens and the like on the touch screen 63.

  The setting history management unit 17 is a processing unit that stores print setting data BSi (print setting history) used for past printing in the print setting data storage unit. The setting history management unit 17 stores print setting data related to each print target data as needed every time a series of print processes (consisting of a plurality of times or one print output) is performed on each print target data. In other words, the setting history management unit 17 automatically stores each print setting data each time a series of print processing is executed for each print target data (one or a plurality of print target data). To do.

  The recommended setting determination unit 18 is a processing unit that determines a recommended setting (recommended print setting) for a print setting at the time of a new print process, based on the print setting data BSi stored in the print setting data storage unit 5b. The recommended setting determination unit 18 satisfies one or a plurality of conditions from among a plurality of print setting data (past data) corresponding to each of a plurality of print target data as a recommended setting regarding a print setting at the time of new print processing. To be determined based on at least one reference data extracted.

  The print target data acquisition unit 15 acquires information about the print target data BDi and ND at each printing (in the past and current printing). In particular, the print target data acquisition unit 15 also acquires corrected print target data that accompanies a change in the font size (number of points) of characters for the print target data.

  The importance level acquisition unit 16 acquires the importance level of the print target data at the time of each printing. The importance level acquisition unit 16 acquires both the importance level of the print target data BDi related to the past print processing and the importance level of the new print target data ND related to the new print processing.

<2. Operation>
<2-1. Print setting data storage operation (accumulation operation)>
<2-1-1. Overview>
The operation in the printing system 100 is roughly divided into a print setting data BSi accumulation stage for each print target data BDi and a print setting NS decision stage for new print target data ND.

  Hereinafter, the former (the accumulation stage of the print setting data BSi for each print target data BDi) will be described first. In this accumulation stage, print setting data relating to each print target data BDi is stored as needed every time a series of print processes (consisting of a plurality of times or one print output) is performed on each print target data BDi.

  3 to 5 are flowcharts in the accumulation stage.

  First, the user creates a print target document (print target data BDi) using the application software program PG1 on the computer 90, and calls the printer driver PG2 from the application software program PG1.

  Then, various setting operations are performed using a setting screen (not shown) of the printer driver PG2 (step S11). For these various setting operations, specify the setting contents related to the setting items of “Nin1” (setting operation) and the setting contents related to the print output mode (“confirmation printing mode” / “normal printing mode”). In addition, an operation for changing (setting operation) or the like may be included.

  Here, the “Nin1” setting is a print setting in which N documents are arranged on one print sheet. According to the “Nin1” setting, reduced printing is realized, and printing paper or the like can be saved. For example, the “2 in 1” setting is a print setting for placing two originals on one print sheet, and the “4 in 1” setting is a print setting for placing four originals on one print sheet. According to the “2 in 1” setting, reduced printing at a scaling ratio of about 70% is realized, and according to the “4 in 1” setting, reduced printing at a scaling ratio of about 50% is realized.

  In addition, the “confirmation printing mode” of the print output modes, when generating a plurality of copies of printed output, first outputs only the first copy and confirms the print output result, and the remaining number of copies is set as it is with the print settings. In this mode, it is determined whether to continue printing. If the user determines that the printout result is good, the remaining number of copies is continuously printed out with the print settings unchanged. If the user determines that the print output result is not good, only one copy of the print output is executed again after the print setting is changed. On the other hand, the “normal print mode” of the print output modes is a so-called normal print mode. In the normal print mode, the designated number of copies is continuously output based on the print instruction content.

  Thereafter, when the “OK button” in the setting screen of the printer driver PG2 is pressed, the print setting content is confirmed, and it is considered that a print instruction based on the print setting content is given (step S12).

  Note that the printer driver PG2 acquires the user name of the print instruction giving user regarding the print target data BDi based on login information to the computer 90 or the like. Thereby, the information of the instructor of the print instruction (including age group information described later) is obtained. The information is transferred from the computer 90 to the MFP 10 along with the print instruction.

  The processes in steps S11 and S12 described above are performed mainly using the computer 90. On the other hand, the subsequent processing (steps S13 to S15) is mainly executed by the MFP 10 that is the print instruction transmission destination.

  In the next step S13, branch processing according to the print output mode is performed. When the print output mode is the “confirmation print mode”, the process proceeds from step S13 to step S14. On the other hand, when the print output mode is the “normal print mode”, the process proceeds from step S13 to step S15.

<2-1-2. Confirmation print mode>
In step S14, the operation shown in FIG. 4 is executed.

  First, in step S21, the MFP 10 prints out only one copy according to the print setting contents of the print instruction.

  Thereafter, the user visually recognizes the print output result of the one copy and determines whether or not a resetting operation relating to the print setting data BSi is necessary based on whether the character is too small (step S22). .

  If it is determined that the resetting operation is unnecessary, the process proceeds from step S22 to step S25, and the remaining number of copies are continuously output without changing the print setting.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the resetting operation is necessary, the user changes the print setting (“Nin1” setting, etc.) (step S23), and one copy of the print output is performed again with the changed print setting. (Step S24), the process proceeds again to step S22. In step S23, in addition to (or instead of) changing the “Nin1” setting, the font size related to the print target data BDi may be changed. For example, the font size of all or some characters in the print target data BDi may be changed (enlarged or the like) using an application software program PG1 such as document creation software.

  When the print output in step S25 is completed, it is determined in step S26 whether or not the print settings have been changed between the initial printing time and the final printing time. If it is determined that the print setting or the like has not been changed, the process proceeds to step S27. On the other hand, if it is determined that the print setting or the like has been changed, the process proceeds to step S28.

  When the print process for the print target data BDi is completed without changing the setting, the setting history management unit 17 prints the print setting data BSi (the print setting data BSi at the time of the print process that did not need to be changed). Non-change data) is classified and stored as “good setting data” (step S27). For example, in FIG. 7, the determination column for the print setting data BSi of “No. 1” is “OK”, and the print setting data BSi of “No. 1” is stored as “good setting data”.

  When the reprinting is performed with the setting change regarding the print target data BDi, the setting history management unit 17 is the print setting data BSi (change required data) that has been changed and the print setting data BSi before the change. Are classified and stored as “defective setting data”, and “improvement setting data” (resetting data), which is the print setting data BSi after the change with respect to the print setting data BSi before the change, is stored in association with the defect setting data. (Step S28). For example, in FIG. 7, the determination columns of the print setting data BSi for “No. 2” to “No. 7” are all “NG”, and the print setting data for “No. 2” to “No. 7”. BSi is stored as “defective setting data”.

  In this way, in step S27 and step S28, the setting history management unit 17 evaluates the print setting data BSi at the time of the first printing of each past print target data BDi, and sets the print setting data BSi as the good setting data (“ It is classified and stored into “OK data”) and failure setting data (also referred to as “NG data”).

  In FIG. 7, each print setting data BSi for each print target data BDi is recorded in units of one line.

  For any one line of print setting data BSi, accompanying information regarding the corresponding print target data BDi and the like is stored. Specifically, the data number (“No.”) of each print target data BDi, attribute information of each print target data BDi (specifically, age group information (Ga to Gd) regarding the instructing user of the print target data BDi), The importance of the print target data BDi, the determination result in step S22 (presence / absence of setting change), etc. are stored as accompanying information, which is information (related information) about each print setting data BSi. It is also expressed as being.

  For example, in the print setting data BSi of “No. 1”, “OK” is stored in the determination column (fourth column from the left end), indicating that no change is necessary. In the data, the age group of the instructing user is “30s” (Gb (see FIG. 6)), and the importance of the print target data BDi is “low” (1.0). Is also recorded.

  Further, in the print setting data BSi of “No. 2”, “NG” is stored in the determination column, which indicates that the change is necessary (the initial setting was insufficient). Has been. In the data, the age group of the instructing user is “50s or more” (Gd (see FIG. 6)), and the importance of the print target data BDi is “medium” (1.3). This is also recorded.

  Here, the user's age group is classified into four stages: an age group Ga under 20s, an age group Gb in the 30s, an age group Gc in the 40s, and an age group Gd in the 50s and above (see FIG. 6). ).

  Further, the importance of the print target data BDi is “high” (or “large”) (= index value “1.5”), “medium” (= index value “1.3”), “low” (or “Small”) (= index value “1.0”). When the index value indicating the importance is smaller than the threshold (reference value) TH1 (= 1.1), the importance is determined to be “low”, and the index value indicating the importance is the threshold (reference value) TH2 ( = 1.4) If it is greater, the importance is determined to be “high”. Further, when the index value indicating the importance is not less than the threshold TH1 and not more than the threshold TH2 (when the index value exists between the threshold TH1 and the threshold TH2), the importance is determined to be “medium”.

  The importance may be specified by the user using, for example, the setting screen GB1 (FIG. 20) displayed on the computer 90 by operating the screen of the printer driver PG2. Specifically, an appropriate option may be selected from the three options in the list (specifically, importance “high”, importance “medium”, importance “low”). Then, the MFP 10 may detect the specified content (importance). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the importance is specified using an appropriate setting screen (same setting screen as in FIG. 20) in the application software program PG1, and the “importance” is embedded in the document to be printed. It may be. Then, the designated content may be detected by the MFP 10.

  The print setting data BSi in which “OK” is stored in the determination column (fourth column from the left end) is “good setting data”, and the print setting in which “NG” is stored in the determination column. The data BSi is “defective setting data”.

  Regarding “good setting data”, in addition to the accompanying information described above, the print settings before the change (specifically, the print settings that did not need to be changed) are stored.

  Specifically, the “Nin1” setting and the font size of the character (specifically, the representative font size (re-occurring font size), the maximum font size, and the minimum font size) are stored.

  Various font sizes related to characters are obtained by the print target data acquisition unit 15 or the like based on a plurality of characters included in the print target data BDi. The print target data acquisition unit 15 or the like acquires information related to the representative font size and the like before correction (before change).

  The “maximum font size” related to the print setting before the change is the largest character size in the print target data (print target data at the first printing) corresponding to the print setting data before the change. The “minimum font size” related to the print setting before the change is the smallest character size in the print target data (print target data at the first printing) corresponding to the print setting data before the change. The “representative font size” related to the print setting before the change is a typical character size (re-appearance size) in the print target data (print target data at the first printing) corresponding to the print setting data before the change. . Here, each font size is represented by the number of character points. “Representative font size” is also expressed as “Representative point (number)”, “Maximum font size” is also expressed as “Maximum point (number)”, and “Minimum font size” is also expressed as “Minimum point (number)” The

  For example, in the print setting data BSi of “No. 1” that is “good setting data”, the setting contents “2 in 1” of the “Nin 1” setting item, the font size of the character (in detail) , Representative font size “11P (point)”, maximum font size “15P (point)”, and minimum font size “9P (point)”) are stored.

  On the other hand, regarding “defective setting data”, in addition to the accompanying information described above, print settings before the change (specifically, print settings that require a change) are stored, and the print settings after the change are also included in the “ It is stored in association with “defective setting data”. As described above, when reprinting is performed on the print target data with a setting change, the print setting after the change (also referred to as “improvement setting” or “improvement setting data”) is also included in the “defective setting data”. Is stored in association with "."

  Specifically, the “Nin1” setting after the change, the font size of the character after the change (specifically, the representative font size, the maximum font size, the minimum font size) and the like are also stored.

  Various font sizes related to characters are obtained by the print target data acquisition unit 15 or the like based on a plurality of characters included in the print target data BDi. The print target data acquisition unit 15 or the like acquires information on the representative font size and the like after correction (after change).

  The “maximum font size” related to the changed print setting is the size of the largest character in the print target data (print target data at the time of final printing) corresponding to the changed print setting data. The “minimum font size” related to the print setting after change is the smallest character size in the print target data (print target data at the time of final printing) corresponding to the print setting data after change. The “representative font size” related to the changed print setting is a representative character size (re-appearance size) in print target data (print target data at the time of final printing) corresponding to the changed print setting data. . In this way, information related to the character font size before and after the change is managed.

  For example, regarding the print setting data BSi of “No. 2” (“defective setting data”), the setting contents “4in1” of the “Nin1” setting item, the font size of the character (for details) , Representative font size “10P (points)”, maximum font size “15P (points)”, and minimum font size “8P (points)”) are stored. In addition, regarding the print setting data BSi of “No. 2” (“defective setting data”), the setting contents “2in1” of the “Nin1” setting item, the font of the character, as the print setting contents (improvement setting data) after the change The size (specifically, representative font size “10P (points)”, maximum font size “15P (points)”, minimum font size “8P (points)”) is stored. That is, it is stored that the setting content related to the “Nin1” setting has been changed from “4in1” to “2in1”. In this way, the “Nin1” setting content and the like related to before and after the change are managed.

  In addition, regarding the print setting data BSi of “No. 5” (“defective setting data”), the setting contents “2in1” of the “Nin1” setting item, the font size of the character (in detail) , Representative font size “8P (point)”, maximum font size “13P (point)”, minimum font size “8P (point)”). In addition, regarding the print setting data BSi of “No. 5” (“defective setting data”), the setting contents “2in1” of the “Nin1” setting item, the font of the character, as the print setting contents after improvement (improvement setting data) The size (specifically, representative font size “11P (point)”, maximum font size “13P (point)”, minimum font size “11P (point)”) is stored. That is, it is stored that the representative font size and the minimum font size are changed from “8P” to “11P”. In this way, information related to the various font sizes of characters (here, the representative font size and the minimum font size) before and after the change is managed.

  In this embodiment, the character size (font size) is not changed by the printer driver, but since it is a setting relating to the character size at the time of printing, the “number of character points” is also “print setting”. Expressed as one. Thus, in the present application, “print setting” includes various setting items at the time of printing. For example, not only settings that can be changed by the printer driver (such as “Nin1”) but also settings that are changed by the document creation software (such as font size of characters in the document) are included in the “print settings”. To do.

  As described above, in the accumulation stage of the print setting data BSi, the setting history management unit 17 evaluates the print setting data BSi at the time of the first printing of each past print target data BDi, and sets the print setting data BSi to “good”. It is classified and stored in “setting data” and “defective setting data”.

  As described above, in the confirmation print mode in which the confirmation printout is performed before printing a plurality of copies, the print setting for the first copy and the print setting for the second and subsequent copies (especially the final print) Categorization processing (classification processing) for the print setting data BSi is executed based on whether or not the print settings are different.

<2-1-3. Normal printing mode>
On the other hand, in step S15, the operation shown in FIG. 5 is executed. FIG. 5 shows an operation of accumulating print setting data BSi in the normal print mode (not the confirmation print mode).

  In the normal print mode, it is determined whether or not reprinting has been performed for the same print target data BDi within a specified time. Based on the determination result, a classification process (classification process) for the print setting data BSi is performed. Executed. This is because a user who is not satisfied with the first print result related to the print target data BDi changes the print settings related to the print target data BDi within a relatively short period of time and executes the print instruction related to the print target data BDi again. It is a technique that uses that.

  First, in step S31, the MFP 10 executes a first print output process related to certain print target data BDi in accordance with the print setting contents of the print instruction.

  Thereafter, the user visually recognizes the first print output result, and needs to perform reprint output (that is, re-execution of print output) accompanied by a resetting operation regarding the print setting data BSi based on whether the character is too small. Judge whether there is.

  When the user determines that the reprint output accompanied by the resetting operation is unnecessary, the user does not execute the reprint output regarding the print target data BDi. On the other hand, when the user determines that the resetting operation is necessary, the user changes the print setting, and causes the MFP 10 to execute the reprint output with the changed print setting. At this time, for example, the print setting relating to “Nin1” is changed. In addition to or instead of this, the font size relating to the print target data BDi is changed. Note that reprinting is repeatedly performed a plurality of times as necessary at the discretion of the user.

  The MFP 10 determines whether reprinting has been performed on the same print target data BDi within a specified time (for example, within 10 minutes) (step S32). If it is determined that reprinting is being performed for the same print target data BDi within the specified time, the process proceeds to step S33. In step S <b> 33, the MFP 10 determines whether the print setting or the like has been changed between the first printing time (first printing time) and the final printing time (second printing time). If the print setting has been changed, the process proceeds to step S35. On the other hand, if the print settings have not been changed, the process proceeds to step S34.

  When the print processing for the print target data BDi is completed without changing the setting, the setting history management unit 17 prints the print setting data BSi that is the print setting data BSi at the time of the print processing and does not need to be changed. The data is classified and stored as “good setting data” (step S34). In step S34, the same process as step S27 is performed.

  On the other hand, when reprinting is performed on the print target data BDi with a setting change within a specified time, the setting history management unit 17 prints the print setting data BSi that needs to be changed and the print before the change. The setting data BSi is classified and stored as “defective setting data”. “Improvement setting data” (reset data), which is print setting data BSi after change (print setting data BSi after final change) with respect to the print setting data BSi before change, is stored in association with the defect setting data ( Step S35). In step S35, the same process as step S28 is performed.

  As described above, in the accumulation stage of the print setting data BSi, the setting history management unit 17 evaluates the print setting data BSi at the time of the first printing of each past print target data BDi, and sets the print setting data BSi to “good”. It is classified and stored in “setting data” and “defective setting data”.

  Further, as described above, in the normal print mode (unconfirmed print mode), it is determined whether or not reprinting has been performed for the same print target data BDi within a specified time, and based on the determination result. Then, a classification process (classification process) for the print setting data BSi is executed.

  As described above, as shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the operation in the accumulation stage of the print setting data BSi for each print target data BDi is executed. As a result, the print setting data BSi related to the plurality of print target data BDi is accumulated. Further, print setting data BSi at the time of printing by a plurality of users classified into a plurality of age groups is accumulated. In particular, since the MFP 10 automatically accumulates the print setting data BSi in accordance with the normal print instruction operation (print instruction operation in both the confirmation mode and the normal print mode) by the user, the print setting data is not conscious of the user. BSi is accumulated. In other words, since no special operation other than the normal print instruction operation by the user is required, past print setting data (print history data) can be accumulated with almost no increase in the burden on the user.

<2-2. New print output operation>
<2-2-1. Overview>
Next, the operation of determining the print setting NS for the new print target data ND will be described with reference to FIGS.

  In the computer 90, the user creates a new print target document (print target data ND) using the application software program PG1, selects a print menu in the application software program PG1, and executes the printer driver PG2.

  Various setting operations are performed using the setting screen of the printer driver PG2 (step S41 (FIG. 8)). The various setting operations may include setting operations related to setting items such as “Nin1”, “importance”, and “print processing mode”.

  Thereafter, when the “OK button” in the setting screen of the printer driver is pressed, the print setting contents are provisionally determined, and it is considered that a print instruction based on the print setting contents is given (step S42). Then, the computer 90 creates print output data related to the print target data BDi, and transmits the print output data to the MFP 10 together with a print instruction.

  Note that, based on login information to the computer 90 or the like, the user name of the print instruction giving user regarding the print target data ND is acquired via the printer driver PG2. Thereby, information (including age group information etc.) regarding the instructor of the print instruction is obtained. The information is transferred to the MFP 10 along with the print instruction and print output data. In addition, various font sizes (maximum font size, minimum font size, representative font size) related to characters included in the print target data BDi are obtained by the print target data acquisition unit 15 and the like based on the print output data. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the computer 90 may obtain various font sizes and transmit the various font sizes to the MFP 10 along with (or embedded in) the print output data.

  The processes in steps S41 and S42 described above are performed mainly using the computer 90. On the other hand, the subsequent processes (steps S43, S50, S60, S70, and S80) are mainly executed by the MFP 10 that is the print instruction transmission destination.

  Specifically, in step S43, branch processing according to the print processing mode (also referred to as “print setting change mode”) is performed. If the print setting change mode is “normal mode”, the process proceeds from step S43 to step S50. If the print setting change mode is “importance level mode”, the process proceeds from step S43 to step S60. If the print setting change mode is “maximum point priority mode”, the process proceeds from step S43 to step S70. If the print setting change mode is “ecology mode (also referred to as eco mode)”, step S43 is performed. To step S80. In each mode, recommended settings and the like by the MFP 10 are appropriately presented to the user, and the user appropriately performs a setting change operation and the like based on the presented recommended settings and the like. Each mode will be described in detail later.

  When new print target data ND is subjected to print output processing according to these setting change processing (steps S50, S60, S70, S80), the print setting data BSi (= NS) as described above. The accumulation operation (steps S11 to S15) is further executed. As a result, a preparation process (data accumulation process) is executed with respect to the printing process of new new print target data after the new print target data ND.

<2-2-2. Normal mode>
“Normal mode” is a basic mode. 9 to 11 are flowcharts showing the operation in the normal mode (step S50).

  First, in step S501 (FIG. 9), the MFP 10 creates new print target data from a plurality of print setting data BSi (also referred to as print history data) BSi accumulated in the print setting data storage unit 5b. Data having the same attribute (age group attribute) as the ND attribute (age group attribute) is extracted. For example, when the age group of the new print target data ND is “30s” (Gb), the MFP 10 stores the data of “30s” (Gb) from the accumulated print history data BSi (FIG. 7). Extract.

  If the number of data extracted in step S501 is zero, the process proceeds from step S502 to step S509 without determining recommended settings, and printout is performed according to the print settings specified by the user.

  On the other hand, if there is one or more data extracted in step S501, the process proceeds from step S502 to step S503.

  In step S503, the MFP 10 extracts print history data having the same setting contents as the setting contents of the new print target data ND with respect to the “Nin1” setting item from the extraction result obtained in step S501. For example, when “Nin1” setting content of the print target data ND is “2in1”, the MFP 10 further narrows down and extracts print history data having the setting content of “2in1”.

  If the number of data extracted in step S503 is zero, the process proceeds from step S504 to step S509 without determining the recommended setting, and printout is performed according to the print setting specified by the user.

  On the other hand, if there is one or more data extracted in step S503, the process proceeds from step S504 to step S505.

  In step S505, the MFP 10 extracts print history data having the same representative font size as the representative font size of the new print target data ND from the extraction result obtained in step S503. For example, when the representative font size of the print target data ND is 11P (points), the MFP 10 further narrows down and extracts the print history data BSi whose representative font size is 11P (points).

  As described above, the recommended setting determination unit 18 selects the condition CN1 related to the “age group”, the condition CN2 related to the “Nin1” setting, and the conditions CN2 from the plurality of print setting data BSi accumulated in the print setting data storage unit 5b. Data that satisfies the three (plural) conditions with the condition CN3 regarding the “representative font size” is extracted.

  Here, a case where print setting data BSi that satisfies all three conditions CN1, CN2, and CN3 is extracted as “reference data” is illustrated, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, print setting data BSi that satisfies a single condition, two conditions, or four or more conditions may be extracted as reference data.

  Thereafter, a branching process according to the number of print setting data BSi (hereinafter also referred to as “reference data”) extracted in step S505 is executed.

  If the number of data extracted in step S505 is zero, the process advances from step S506 to step S509, and printout is performed according to the print settings designated by the user.

  On the other hand, if the number of data extracted in step S505 is one, the process advances from step S506 to step S510 via step S507.

  If the number of data extracted in step S505 is two or more, the process advances from step S506 to step S520 via step S507.

  In steps S510 and S520, based on the print setting data BSi (reference data) extracted in step S505, a determination operation related to recommended settings is performed. The recommended setting is determined based on the post-change data (“improvement setting data”) stored in association with the print setting data BSi extracted in step S505. Thereafter, in principle, the process returns to step S509, and print output is performed in accordance with the changed print setting (or original print setting).

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the detailed operation of step S510.

  First, in step S511, it is determined whether or not the “determination” column (see FIG. 7) of one extracted print setting data BSi (reference data) is “OK”.

  If the determination column is “OK”, the process advances from step S511 to step S509, where the current print setting designated by the user is determined as the recommended setting as it is, and print output is performed according to the print setting.

  On the other hand, if the determination field is “NG”, the process advances from step S511 to step S515. In step S515, the MFP 10 determines the setting content of the changed data associated with the one print setting data BSi extracted in step S505 as the recommended setting content. Then, the MFP 10 creates display data for displaying the screen GA having the recommended setting content and the like, and transmits the display data to the computer 90 via the network NW. The computer 90 displays the screen GA (GA1, GA2, etc.) on the display unit based on the received display data.

  FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of the screen GA (specifically, the screen GA1). For example, when only “No. 2” print setting data BSi (NG data) is extracted as reference data from a plurality of print setting data BSi, the screen GA1 is displayed. In this screen GA1, the current setting (setting by the user) is “4 in 1”, and “the character is too small in the current setting” is displayed. Then, “2 in 1” is presented based on the improvement setting data as the recommended setting content regarding the print setting (specifically, “Nin 1” setting). In addition, “2 in 1” is provisionally selected by a radio button. In this way, it is recommended to change the setting to “2 in 1”.

  When approving the recommended setting, the user presses the print button BN11 as it is. When the print button BN11 is pressed, the computer 90 confirms the changed recommended setting as the print setting, generates print output data based on the changed recommended setting, and displays the print output data and the print instruction. It transmits to the MFP 10 (step S518). In step S509 (FIG. 9), the MFP 10 performs print output. That is, print output is performed according to the recommended setting.

  On the other hand, when the user does not approve the recommended setting, the user performs an operation to return the print setting to the original “4 in 1” using a radio button or the like. Thereafter, when the print button BN11 is pressed, the computer 90 confirms the recommended setting before the change as the print setting, generates print data based on the print setting before the change, and displays the print output data and the print instruction. It transmits to the MFP 10 (step S518). In step S509 (FIG. 9), print output is performed. That is, print output is performed according to the original setting.

  When the user presses the cancel button BN12 on the screen GA, the process proceeds from step S517 to step S519, and printing is stopped.

  In step S515 described above, depending on the extracted reference data, a screen GA (GA2) as shown in FIG. 22 is displayed instead of screen GA (GA1) in FIG.

  FIG. 22 is a diagram showing another example of the screen GA (specifically, the screen GA2). In this screen GA2, “characters are too small in the current setting” or the like is displayed. In this example, the character font size (representative font size) is changed from the current “10P” to “11P” based on the improvement setting data (representative point size = “11P”) corresponding to the extracted reference data (NG data). It is recommended to change to. The recommended setting content regarding the print setting (specifically, “Nin1” setting) is “4in1”, which is the same as the setting content before the change.

  When the user approves such a change in font size, the user once presses the cancel button BN14 (FIG. 22). When the user presses the cancel button BN14 on the screen GA2, the process proceeds from step S517 to step S519, and printing is stopped. Thereafter, the print setting operation and the like are executed from the beginning (step S41 (FIG. 8)). Specifically, the user uses a program (document creation software or the like) PG1 to execute an operation for editing the print target data ND so that the representative font size is changed to “11P”.

  On the other hand, when the user wants to execute printing with the original font size (representative font size = “10P”), the user presses the print button BN13. In response to this, the print output operation is executed with the current print settings.

  In step S510, the operation as described above is executed.

  Next, the operation in step S520 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the detailed operation of step S520. As described above, if there are two or more data extracted in step S505 (FIG. 9), the process proceeds from step S506 to step S520.

  First, in step S521 (FIG. 11), it is determined whether or not all the determination columns of all (two or more) print setting data BSi (reference data) extracted in step S505 are “OK”. .

  If all the reference data determination fields are “OK”, the process proceeds from step S521 to step S509, where the current print setting designated by the user is determined as the recommended setting as it is, and the print output is performed according to the print setting. Done.

  On the other hand, if all the reference data determination fields are “NG”, the process advances from step S521 to step S524 via step S522. In step S524, it is further determined whether or not the changed print settings for each reference data BSi are the same (mutually). For example, when the plurality of changed “Nin1 settings” are all “2in1”, it is determined that the plurality of changed print settings (improvement setting data) are the same.

  When the changed print settings (improvement setting data) are the same, the process proceeds to step S525. In step S525, the (same) setting content (for example, “2 in 1”) of the changed data is determined as the recommended setting content. Then, the MFP 10 creates display data for displaying the screen GA (GA1, GA2, etc.) having the recommended setting contents and transmits the display data to the computer 90 via the network NW. The computer 90 displays the screen GA (see FIG. 21) on the display unit based on the received display data. Thereby, the only “print setting after change” in the past print setting data BSi is presented to the user as a recommended setting.

  If any of the changed print settings (improvement setting data) is different, the process advances from step S524 to step S526.

  In step S526, the setting content (such as “Nin1”) described in the “improvement setting data” corresponding to the reference data (“defective setting data”) is determined as the recommended setting content. Specifically, among a plurality of post-change data (“improvement setting data”) relating to a plurality of “defective setting data”, the minimum scaling ratio setting content (maximum value N) (for example, “4 in 1”) is used as the recommended setting content. decide. In addition, when there are a plurality of data of the minimum scaling factor, the minimum “representative point” data is determined as the recommended setting content.

  Then, the MFP 10 creates display data for displaying the screen GA (GA1, GA2, etc.) having the recommended setting contents and transmits the display data to the computer 90 via the network NW. The computer 90 displays the screen GA on the display unit based on the received display data.

  As a result, the setting contents determined by the person of the same age at least once as being the data after the change and being a good output result are presented to the user as the recommended setting. Here, the “Nin1” setting of the minimum magnification (value N is maximum) determined to be a favorable output result by any person is determined as the recommended setting. According to this, it is possible to appropriately improve saving of paper and the like while preventing the reduction magnification from becoming excessive (characters becoming too small). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other setting contents of the plurality of improvement setting data may be determined as recommended settings.

  After steps S525 and S526, the processes of steps S527 to S529 are executed. The process of steps S527 to S529 is the same as the process of steps S517 to S519 (FIG. 10).

  If it is determined that “OK” and “NG” are mixed in the plurality of determination fields regarding the plurality of reference data extracted in step S505, the process proceeds from step S521 to step S522 through step S523. Proceed to

  In step S523, it is determined which of “OK” and “NG” occupies a large number in a plurality of determination fields related to a plurality of reference data. Note that determining whether or not “OK” occupies a large number is also expressed as determining whether or not a satisfaction degree SV described later exceeds a reference value TV1 (for example, 0.5). .

  If “NG” occupies the majority, the process proceeds to step S526. In step S526, the above-described operation is executed.

  On the other hand, if “OK” occupies the majority, the process proceeds to step S531.

  In step S531, first, a satisfaction degree SV for the current print setting is calculated.

  The satisfaction degree SV (also referred to as SV1) is calculated by the following equation, for example.

  Here, the value NB1 represents the number of “good setting data” among the plurality of reference data, and represents the number of “defective setting data” among the plurality of reference data. That is, the value NB1 is the number of “OK” data, and the value NB2 is the number of “NG” data.

This satisfaction degree SV is also expressed as an occupancy rate (or an evaluation value (occupation rate evaluation value) regarding the occupancy rate) of “good setting data” among a plurality of reference data.
For example, when NB1 = 9 and NB2 = 1, the value SV1 is calculated as 90%.

  Then, display data for the screen GA3 (see FIG. 23) for displaying the satisfaction degree SV is created, and the screen GA3 is presented to the user based on the display data. FIG. 23 shows that the satisfaction degree SV is “90%”.

  The user checks the satisfaction degree SV with respect to the current print setting, and presses the print button BN11 when selecting to print as it is. When the print button BN11 is pressed, it is determined that the current print setting is approved, and the process returns from step S532 to step S509 (FIG. 9), and print output is performed according to the current print setting.

  Note that the user can interrupt printing by pressing the cancel button BN12. When the cancel button BN12 is pressed, the process proceeds from step S532 to step S529, and printing is stopped.

  According to the operation as described above, the recommended setting for the print setting at the time of new print processing is determined based on the print setting data BSi stored in the print setting data storage unit 5b and the improvement setting data associated therewith. Is done. Therefore, it is possible to determine the recommended setting more flexibly according to the print setting data BSi and the like stored in the print setting data storage unit 5b without relying on uniform determination criteria. In particular, it is possible to easily reflect various characteristics (situations) at the delivery destination of the printing apparatus.

  Further, the recommended setting determination unit 18 determines the recommended setting based on the reference data extracted as satisfying one or more conditions from the print setting data BSi regarding the print setting at the time of a new print process. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately determine the recommended setting reflecting one or more conditions.

  In particular, in the above-described embodiment, the print setting data is related to “same age group user” (same user) who is a user who belongs to the same age group as the age group of the print setter who executes a new print process. Is set as reference data from the print setting history (step S501). Therefore, reference data reflecting elements of the user's age group can be extracted. As a result, it is possible to determine the recommended setting appropriately reflecting the elements of the user's age group.

  In the above embodiment, for the “Nin1” setting item in the new printing process, reference data having the same setting contents as the user setting contents in the new printing process is extracted from the printing setting history (step S503). . Accordingly, it is possible to determine the recommended setting by appropriately reflecting the past evaluation for the “Nin1” setting that is the same as the user setting content.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, print setting data related to the same representative font size as the representative font size (re-appearance font size) of characters in the new printing process is extracted from the print setting history as reference data (step). S505). Therefore, it is possible to determine the recommended setting by appropriately reflecting the past evaluation with respect to the print setting data having the same “representative font size” as the user setting content.

  In the above embodiment, if all the reference data determination fields extracted in step S505 are “OK”, the process advances from step S521 (, S511) to step S509, and is designated by the user. The current print settings are determined as recommended settings as they are, and print output is performed according to the print settings. Therefore, after confirming that the current print setting is good based on the past print setting data, the recommended setting can be determined and the print output can be made.

  Further, in the above embodiment, when the satisfaction degree SV is larger than the reference value TV1 (= 0.5), the print setting at the time of a new print process is determined as the recommended setting as it is (steps S523 and S531). Therefore, the recommended setting is determined after confirming that the current print setting is good based on the past print setting data. Further, when the satisfaction degree SV is larger than the reference value TV1 (= 0.5), the occupation rate evaluation value is presented to the user as the satisfaction degree regarding the print setting at the time of the new printing process (steps S523 and S531). The user can determine the print setting after knowing the degree to which the print setting has been evaluated to be good at the time of past printing.

  In the above embodiment, when the satisfaction degree SV is smaller than the reference value TV1, “Nin1” setting content in “improvement setting data” associated with “defective setting data” is determined as a recommended setting (S526). Therefore, since the “Nin1” setting determined as a good output result by any person is determined as the recommended setting, the reduction ratio becomes excessive after reflecting the past print setting history (characters are It is possible to appropriately increase the saving of paper and the like while preventing it from becoming too small. In more detail, in a plurality of changed data (“improvement setting data”) associated with “defective setting data” among a plurality of reference data, “Nin1” setting content of the minimum magnification is determined as a recommended setting. (S526). Therefore, the “Nin1” setting of the minimum magnification (value N is the maximum) determined in the past as a good output result by any person is determined as the recommended setting, so that the saving of paper and the like is further improved. Is possible.

<2-2-3. Importance mode>
<Overview>
The “importance level mode” is a mode in which the recommended setting determination method related to the font size of characters is changed according to the importance level of the document. Specifically, this importance mode is a mode in which importance is given to the changed NG data (more specifically, the changed font size) with respect to the font size of the type corresponding to the importance of the document. In the importance mode, the recommended setting is determined using information related to the font size of the type corresponding to the “importance” of the new print target data ND and stored as “improvement setting data”. .

  Specifically, when the importance of the print target data ND is “low”, the maximum font size changed in the improvement setting data is set to the new setting contents (the “maximum font size after correction of the print target data”). ]) Recommended. According to this, it is reflected that the maximum font size needs to be changed (in the improvement setting data), and the user can select at least the maximum font size among characters of various sizes in the text of the print target data ND. It is possible to appropriately recognize the character (largest character). Note that since the importance is “low”, it is not always necessary to visually recognize the character having the minimum font size (and the representative font size).

  Further, when the importance of the print target data ND is “medium”, the representative font size changed in the improvement setting data is set as a new setting content (“representative font size” after correction of the print target data). Recommended. According to this, it is reflected that the representative font size needs to be changed (in the improvement setting data), and the user can select at least the representative font among characters of various sizes in the text of the print target data ND. It is possible to visually recognize characters of a size appropriately.

  When the importance of the print target data ND is “medium”, the same operation can be executed even when the maximum font size is changed in the improvement setting data. As a result, it is possible to appropriately visually recognize characters larger than the representative font size.

  Further, when the importance of the print target data ND is “high”, the minimum font size changed in the improvement setting data is the new setting content (“minimum font size” after correction of the print target data). Recommended. According to this, it is reflected that the minimum font size needs to be changed (in the improvement setting data), and the user has the smallest character (character with the minimum number of points) in the text of the print target data ND. Appropriate visual recognition is possible.

  When the importance of the print target data ND is “high”, the same operation can be executed even when the maximum font size and the maximum font size are changed in the improvement setting data. As a result, it is possible to appropriately visually recognize characters of all sizes.

  12 to 14 are flowcharts illustrating the operation in the importance mode (step S60).

  In steps S601 to S605, operations similar to those in steps S501 to S505 described above are performed.

  As a result, the recommended setting determination unit 18 selects the condition CN1 related to the “age group”, the condition CN2 related to the “Nin1” setting, and the “representative font size” from the plurality of print setting data BSi accumulated in the print setting data storage unit 5b. ”Is extracted as“ reference data ”that satisfies the three (plural) conditions with the condition CN3.

  In step S606 and step S607, branch processing is executed according to the number of extracted print setting data BSi (number of reference data).

  If the number of data extracted in step S605 is zero, the process advances from step S606 to step S609, and printout is performed according to the print settings designated by the user.

  On the other hand, if the number of data extracted in step S605 is one, the process advances from step S606 to step S610 via step S607.

  If the number of data extracted in step S605 is two or more, the process advances from step S606 to step S630 via step S607.

<Step S610>
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the detailed operation of step S610.

  First, in step S611, it is determined whether or not the determination column of one extracted print setting data BSi (reference data) is “OK”.

  If the determination field is “OK”, the process advances from step S611 to step S609, and the current print setting designated by the user is determined as the recommended setting as it is, and print output is performed according to the print setting.

  On the other hand, if the determination field is “NG”, the process advances from step S611 to step S613. In step S613, a branch process according to the importance of the print target data ND is executed. The importance of the print target data ND may be determined by a designation input using the setting screen GB1 (FIG. 20) as described above.

  When the importance of the print target data ND is “low”, the process proceeds to step S614. When the importance of the print target data ND is “medium”, the process proceeds to step S615. When the importance of the print target data ND is “high”, the process proceeds to step S616.

  In step S614, it is determined whether or not the “maximum point” (maximum font size) has been changed for one piece of extracted reference data.

  When the maximum font size has not been changed, the process proceeds from step S614 to step S609, where the current print setting designated by the user is determined as the recommended setting as it is, and print output is performed according to the print setting.

  On the other hand, when the maximum font size has been changed, the process proceeds from step S614 to step S617, and the setting content of the changed data (improvement setting data) associated with one piece of print setting data BSi extracted in step S605 is recommended. Determined as setting contents. Specifically, the setting contents of the improvement setting data in which the maximum font size has been changed (setting contents regarding “Nin1”, “maximum font size”, etc.) are determined as recommended setting contents.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 7, regarding the print setting data BSi of “No. 6”, the maximum font size “12P” before change is changed to the maximum font size “14P” (improvement setting data after change) In the case of reference), the following recommended settings are determined. Specifically, “2 in 1” is determined as the recommended setting content of the “Nin 1” setting item, and “14P” is determined as the recommended setting content of the maximum font size setting item.

  Then, the MFP 10 creates display data for displaying the screen GA having the recommended setting content and the like, and transmits the display data to the computer 90 via the network NW. The computer 90 displays the screen GA (GA6 (see FIG. 26)) on the display unit based on the received display data (step S620). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S621.

  As described above, when the importance of the print target data ND is “medium”, the process proceeds from step S613 to step S615.

  In step S615, it is determined whether or not “representative point” (representative font size) has been changed with respect to the extracted reference data.

  When the representative font size has not been changed, the process proceeds from step S615 to step S614 described above.

  On the other hand, when the representative font size has been changed, the process proceeds from step S615 to step S618. In step S618, the setting content of the post-change data (improvement setting data) associated with one print setting data BSi extracted in step S605 is determined as the recommended setting content. Specifically, the setting contents of the improvement setting data in which the representative font size is changed (setting contents related to “Nin1”, “representative font size”, etc.) are determined as recommended setting contents.

  Then, the MFP 10 creates display data for displaying the screen GA having the recommended setting content and the like, and transmits the display data to the computer 90 via the network NW. The computer 90 displays the screen GA on the display unit based on the received display data (step S620). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S621.

  As described above, when the importance of the print target data ND is “high”, the process proceeds from step S613 to step S616.

  In step S616, it is determined whether or not the “minimum point” (minimum font size) has been changed for one piece of extracted reference data.

  If the minimum font size has not been changed, the process proceeds from step S616 to step S615 described above.

  On the other hand, when the minimum font size has been changed, the process proceeds from step S616 to step S619. In step S619, the setting content of the changed data (improvement setting data) associated with the one print setting data BSi extracted in step S605 is determined as the recommended setting content. Specifically, the setting content of the improvement setting data in which the minimum font size has been changed (setting content related to “Nin1”, “minimum font size”, etc.) is determined as the recommended setting content.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 7, regarding the print setting data BSi of “No. 7”, the minimum font size “8P” before the change is changed to the minimum font size “10P” (the improved setting data after the change). In the case of reference), the following recommended settings are determined. Specifically, “2in1” is determined as the recommended setting content of the “Nin1” setting item, and “10P” is determined as the recommended setting content of the minimum font size setting item.

  Then, the MFP 10 creates display data for displaying the screen GA having the recommended setting content and the like, and transmits the display data to the computer 90 via the network NW. The computer 90 displays the screen GA (GA5 (see FIG. 25)) on the display unit based on the received display data (step S620). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S621.

  Thereafter, in steps S621 to S623, the same processes as in steps S517 to S519 described above are executed.

  According to the operation as described above, when one reference NG data is extracted in the importance mode, characters of a size corresponding to the importance of the print target data ND are printed in an easy-to-see manner.

  Specifically, in the “low” importance mode, at least the largest character (character having the maximum font size) among the plurality of characters in the document is printed in an easy-to-see manner.

  In the “medium” importance mode, characters having a size larger than at least the representative font size among a plurality of sizes of characters in the document are printed in an easy-to-see manner.

  In the “high” importance mode, characters having a size larger than the minimum font size (that is, characters of all sizes) among a plurality of characters in the document are printed in an easy-to-see manner.

<Step S630>
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the detailed operation of step S630. In step S630, basically the same operation as in step S610 is executed. However, in step S630, when a change related to the same type of font size is applied to a plurality of reference data, data having the smallest scaling factor (the largest setting value N in the Nin1 setting) is narrowed down. Furthermore, when there are a plurality of types of changed values for the same type of font size, the font size having the smallest value is selected.

  First, in step S631, it is determined whether or not all of the determination columns of the plurality of extracted print setting data BSi (reference data) are “OK”. That is, it is determined whether all the determination fields are “OK”.

  If all the determination columns are “OK”, the process advances from step S631 to step S609, and the current print setting designated by the user is determined as the recommended setting as it is, and print output is performed according to the print setting.

  On the other hand, if at least one determination field is “NG”, the process advances from step S631 to step S632. In step S632, data having the determination column “NG” is further extracted from the plurality of reference data. The one or more “NG data” extracted in step S632 is also referred to as “reference NG data”.

  In step S633, branch processing according to the importance of the print target data ND is executed. When the importance of the print target data ND is “low”, the process proceeds to step S634. When the importance of the print target data ND is “medium”, the process proceeds to step S635. When the importance of the print target data ND is “high”, the process proceeds to step S636.

  In step S634, it is determined whether the “maximum point” (maximum font size) has been changed for the “reference NG data” extracted in step S632.

  When none of the “maximum font size” of each reference NG data has been changed, the process proceeds from step S634 to step S609, where the current print setting designated by the user is determined as the recommended setting as it is, and print output is performed according to the print setting. Is done.

  On the other hand, when the “maximum font size” of at least one “reference NG data” has been changed, the process proceeds from step S634 to step S637. In step S637, data of the smallest scaling factor (the largest set value N in the Nin1 setting) is narrowed down from the “reference NG data” extracted in step S632. Then, the setting content of the changed data (improvement setting data) associated with the “reference NG data” narrowed down in this way is determined as the recommended setting content. Specifically, the setting contents of the improvement setting data in which the maximum font size has been changed (setting contents regarding “Nin1”, “maximum font size”, etc.) are determined as recommended setting contents.

  Furthermore, when there are a plurality of improvement setting data (minimum scaling improvement setting data) in which the “maximum font size” is changed, and the maximum font sizes after the change are different from each other, the smallest “maximum font size” Assume that “size” is selected.

  Then, the MFP 10 creates display data for displaying the screen GA having the recommended setting content and the like, and transmits the display data to the computer 90 via the network NW. The computer 90 displays the screen GA (GA6 (see FIG. 26)) on the display unit based on the received display data (step S640). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S641.

  As described above, when the importance of the print target data ND is “medium”, the process proceeds from step S633 to step S635.

  In step S635, it is determined whether or not “representative point” (representative font size) has been changed with respect to the “reference NG data” extracted in step S632.

  If none of the “representative font sizes” of the reference NG data has been changed, the process proceeds from step S635 to step S634 described above.

  On the other hand, when the “representative font size” of at least one “reference NG data” has been changed, the process proceeds from step S635 to step S638. In step S638, data having the smallest scaling factor (the largest setting value N in Nin1 setting) is narrowed down from the “reference NG data” extracted in step S632. Then, the setting content of the changed data (improvement setting data) associated with the “reference NG data” narrowed down in this way is determined as the recommended setting content. Specifically, the setting contents of the improvement setting data in which the representative font size is changed (setting contents related to “Nin1”, “representative font size”, etc.) are determined as recommended setting contents.

  Also, here, when there are a plurality of improvement setting data (minimum scaling improvement setting data) whose “representative font size” is changed, when the changed representative font sizes are different from each other, the smallest “representative font” Assume that “size” is selected.

  Then, the MFP 10 creates display data for displaying the screen GA having the recommended setting content and the like, and transmits the display data to the computer 90 via the network NW. The computer 90 displays the screen GA on the display unit based on the received display data (step S640). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S641.

  Further, as described above, when the importance of the print target data ND is “high”, the process proceeds from step S633 to step S636.

  In step S636, it is determined whether or not the “minimum point” (minimum font size) has been changed for the “reference NG data” extracted in step S632.

  When none of the “minimum font size” of each reference NG data has been changed, the process proceeds from step S636 to step S635 described above.

  On the other hand, when the “minimum font size” of at least one “reference NG data” has been changed, the process proceeds from step S636 to step S639. In step S639, data of the smallest scaling factor (the largest setting value N in the Nin1 setting) is narrowed down from the “reference NG data” extracted in step S632. Then, the setting content of the changed data (improvement setting data) associated with the “reference NG data” narrowed down in this way is determined as the recommended setting content. Specifically, the setting content of the improvement setting data in which the minimum font size has been changed (setting content related to “Nin1”, “minimum font size”, etc.) is determined as the recommended setting content.

  Also, here, when there are a plurality of improvement setting data (minimum scaling factor improvement setting data) whose “minimum font size” has been changed, and the minimum font size after the change is different from each other, the smallest “minimum font size” Assume that “size” is selected.

  Then, the MFP 10 creates display data for displaying the screen GA having the recommended setting content and the like, and transmits the display data to the computer 90 via the network NW. The computer 90 displays the screen GA on the display unit based on the received display data (step S640). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S641.

  Thereafter, in steps S641 to S643, processes similar to those in steps S527 to S529 described above are executed.

  According to the operation as described above, even when a plurality of reference NG data is extracted in the importance mode, characters of a size corresponding to the importance of the print target data ND are printed in an easy-to-see manner.

  Specifically, in the “low” importance mode, at least the largest character (“maximum font size” character) is printed in an easy-to-read manner among a plurality of types of characters in the document.

  In the “medium” importance mode, characters having a size larger than at least the “representative font size” among a plurality of characters in the document are printed in an easy-to-see manner.

  In the “high” importance mode, characters having a size larger than the “minimum font size” (that is, characters of all sizes) are printed in an easy-to-read manner among a plurality of sizes of characters in the document.

  In particular, when the same type of font size is changed for a plurality of reference data, the data with the smallest scaling factor (the largest setting value N in the Nin1 setting) is narrowed down, so that the saving of paper and the like is promoted. Is possible.

  In addition, regarding the same type of font size, when there are a plurality of types of changed values, the font size with the smallest value is selected, so it is possible to further improve the saving of paper and the like.

<2-2-4. Maximum point priority mode>
<Overview>
The “maximum point priority mode” is a mode for preferentially changing the recommended setting of the “maximum font size” of characters. More specifically, this is a mode in which recommended settings are determined based on the maximum font size changed in NG data (defective setting data). Compared to the importance mode described above, the maximum point priority mode is different from the importance mode in that the recommended setting is always determined based on the maximum font size regardless of the importance of the document. That is, in the maximum point priority mode, the recommended setting is determined in consideration of the maximum font size (maximum points).

  More specifically, in the maximum point priority mode, the maximum font size changed in the improvement setting data is recommended as new setting content (“maximum font size after correction of print target data”). According to this, it is reflected that the maximum font size needs to be changed (in the improvement setting data), and the user can select at least the maximum font size among characters of various sizes in the text of the print target data ND. It is possible to appropriately recognize the character (largest character).

  15 to 17 are flowcharts showing the operation (step S70) in the maximum point priority mode.

  In steps S701 to S705, operations similar to those in steps S501 to S505 described above are performed.

  As a result, the recommended setting determination unit 18 selects the condition CN1 related to the “age group”, the condition CN2 related to the “Nin1” setting, and the “representative font size” from the plurality of print setting data BSi accumulated in the print setting data storage unit 5b. The data that satisfies the three (plural) conditions with the condition CN3 regarding "is extracted.

  In step S706 and step S707, branch processing is executed according to the number of extracted print setting data BSi (the number of reference data).

  If the number of data extracted in step S705 is zero, the process advances from step S706 to step S709, and printout is performed according to the print settings designated by the user.

  On the other hand, if the number of data extracted in step S705 is one, the process advances from step S706 to step S710 via step S707.

  If there are two or more data extracted in step S705, the process advances from step S706 to step S730 via step S707.

<Step S710>
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the detailed operation of step S710.

  First, in step S711, it is determined whether or not the determination column of one extracted print setting data BSi (reference data) is “OK”.

  If the determination field is “OK”, the process advances from step S711 to step S709, where the current print setting designated by the user is determined as the recommended setting as it is, and print output is performed according to the print setting.

  On the other hand, if the determination field is “NG”, the process advances from step S711 to step S714.

  In step S714, it is determined whether or not the “maximum point” (maximum font size) has been changed for one piece of extracted reference data.

  When the maximum font size has not been changed, the process proceeds from step S714 to step S709, where the current print setting designated by the user is determined as the recommended setting as it is, and print output is performed according to the print setting.

  On the other hand, when the maximum font size has been changed, the process proceeds from step S714 to step S717, and the setting content of the changed data (improvement setting data) associated with one print setting data BSi extracted in step S705 is recommended. Determined as setting contents. Specifically, the setting contents of the improvement setting data in which the maximum font size has been changed (setting contents regarding “Nin1”, “maximum font size”, etc.) are determined as recommended setting contents.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 7, regarding the print setting data BSi of “No. 6”, the maximum font size “12P” before change is changed to the maximum font size “14P” (improvement setting data after change) In the case of reference), the following recommended settings are determined. Specifically, “2 in 1” is determined as the recommended setting content of the “Nin 1” setting item, and “14P” is determined as the recommended setting content of the maximum font size setting item.

  Then, the MFP 10 creates display data for displaying the screen GA having the recommended setting content and the like, and transmits the display data to the computer 90 via the network NW. The computer 90 displays the screen GA (GA6 (see FIG. 26)) on the display unit based on the received display data (step S720). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S721.

  Thereafter, in steps S721 to S723, the same processes as in steps S517 to S519 described above are executed.

<Step S730>
FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the detailed operation of step S730. In step S730, basically the same operation as in step S710 is executed. However, in this step S730, when a change related to the maximum font size is performed for a plurality of reference data, data having the smallest scaling factor (the largest setting value N in the Nin1 setting) is narrowed down. Further, regarding the maximum font size, when there are a plurality of changed values, the maximum font size with the smallest value is selected.

  First, in step S731, it is determined whether or not all of the determination columns of the plurality of extracted print setting data BSi (reference data) are “OK”. That is, it is determined whether all the determination fields are “OK”.

  When all the determination columns are “OK”, the process proceeds from step S731 to step S709, where the current print setting designated by the user is determined as the recommended setting as it is, and print output is performed according to the print setting.

  On the other hand, if at least one determination field is “NG”, the process advances from step S731 to step S732. In step S732, data having the determination column “NG” is further extracted from the plurality of reference data. In the next step S733, “improvement setting data” in which the “maximum font size (maximum point)” is changed is further extracted from one or a plurality of “NG data” extracted in step S732. .

  If “improvement setting data” whose “maximum font size (maximum point)” has been changed is not extracted, the process advances from step S734 to step S709. That is, when none of the “maximum font size” of each data has been changed, the process proceeds from step S734 to step S709. In step S709, as described above, the current print setting designated by the user is determined as the recommended setting as it is, and print output is performed according to the print setting.

  On the other hand, if “improvement setting data” whose “maximum font size (maximum point)” is changed is further extracted, the process proceeds from step S734 to step S737.

  In step S737, data having the smallest scaling factor (the largest setting value N in the Nin1 setting) is narrowed down from the “reference NG data” extracted in step S733. Then, the setting content of the changed data (improvement setting data) associated with the “reference NG data” narrowed down in this way is determined as the recommended setting content. Specifically, the setting contents of the improvement setting data in which the maximum font size has been changed (setting contents regarding “Nin1”, “maximum font size”, etc.) are determined as recommended setting contents. Here, when there are a plurality of improvement setting data whose “maximum font size” has been changed, and the maximum font sizes after the change are different from each other, the smallest “maximum font size” is selected. .

  Then, the MFP 10 creates display data for displaying the screen GA having the recommended setting content and the like, and transmits the display data to the computer 90 via the network NW. The computer 90 displays the screen GA on the display unit based on the received display data (step S740). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S741.

  Thereafter, in steps S741 to S743, processing similar to that in steps S527 to S529 described above is performed.

  According to the maximum point priority mode as described above, at least the largest character (character with the maximum font size) among the plurality of characters in the document is printed in an easy-to-read manner. In particular, characters of the maximum font size are printed in an easy-to-read manner for documents of arbitrary importance without depending on the importance of the document.

<2-2-5. Eco Mode>
The “ecology mode (eco mode)” is a mode that can further improve economy. In particular, in this eco mode, referring to the “good setting data” at the time of past printing, the number of printed sheets can be further reduced than the number of printed sheets by the user setting (print setting) for the new print target data ND (economic efficiency). A print setting that can be improved) can be presented as a recommended setting. Specifically, the recommended setting determination unit 18 realizes a print number smaller than the number of prints according to the user print setting for the print processing of the new print target data ND among the print settings defined in the “good setting data”. The print setting to be performed is determined as “recommended setting”.

  18 and 19 are flowcharts showing the operation in the eco mode (step S80).

  In steps S801 to S807, S810, and S820, operations similar to those in steps S501 to S507, S510, and S520 described above (see FIGS. 9 to 11) are performed.

  However, in this eco mode, step S850 (see FIGS. 18 and 19) is inserted between step S802 and step S803. In step S850, the recommended setting for further improving the economic efficiency as described above can be determined.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the detailed operation of step S850.

  First, in step S851, good setting data satisfying the condition CN51 is extracted from the data extracted in step S801 as a recommended setting candidate and temporarily stored. Here, the condition CN51 is “good setting data having the smallest representative point among good setting data having the same scaling factor (same value N) as the scaling factor of the print setting for the new print target data ND”. It is. If there is no good setting data that satisfies the condition CN51, this is stored.

  For example, if the user designates “2 in 1 (and representative point = 12P)” in step S41 (FIG. 8), “2 in 1 (and representative point = 12P)” and “2 in 1 (and representative point = 11P)” are used. When “OK” determination has been made in the past for each print setting (S27 (FIG. 4), S34 (FIG. 5)), “2 in 1 (and representative point = 11P)” is extracted as a recommended setting candidate. .

  In step S852, good setting data satisfying the condition CN52 is extracted from the data extracted in step S801 as a recommended setting candidate and temporarily stored. Here, the condition CN52 is “good setting data having the smallest variable magnification (maximum N) among the good setting data having the representative point of the same size as the representative point of the print setting for the new print target data ND”. It is. If there is no good setting data that satisfies the condition CN52, that fact is stored.

  For example, if the user designates “2 in 1 (and representative point = 12P)” in step S41 (FIG. 8), “4 in 1 (and representative point = 12P)” and “8 in 1 (and representative point = 12P)”. When “OK” determination has been made in the past for each print setting (S27 (FIG. 4), S34 (FIG. 4)), “8 in 1 (and representative point = 12P)” is extracted as a recommended setting candidate. .

  In step S853, all good setting data satisfying the condition CN53 are extracted from the data extracted in step S801 as recommended setting candidates and temporarily stored. Here, the condition CN53 is “a scaling factor having a representative point of a size smaller than the representative point of the print setting for the new print target data ND and smaller than the scaling factor of the print setting for the new print target data ND. It is good setting data having "." If there is no good setting data that satisfies the condition CN52, that fact is stored.

  For example, if the user designates “2 in 1 (and representative point = 12P)” in step S41 (FIG. 8), “4 in 1 (and representative point = 10P)” and “8 in 1 (and representative point = 11P)”. When “OK” determination has been made in the past in the print settings (S27 (FIG. 4), S34 (FIG. 4)), “4 in 1 (and representative point = 10P)” and “8 in 1” are recommended setting candidates. (And representative point = 11P) ”are extracted.

  In the next step S854, branch processing is performed depending on whether or not the total number of extracted data in steps S851 to S853 is one or more. If the number of extracted data is 0, the process proceeds from step S854 to S803 (FIG. 18). On the other hand, if the number of extracted data is one or more, the process proceeds from step S854 to S855.

  In step S855, among the one or more good setting data extracted in any of steps S851 to S853, the setting content for realizing the minimum print number is determined as the recommended setting.

  For example, as the recommended setting candidates, the above four settings, that is, “2 in 1 (and representative point = 11P)”, “8 in 1 (and representative point = 12P)”, “4 in 1 (and representative point = 10P)”, “ It is assumed that “8 in 1 (and representative point = 11P)” is extracted. In this case, among these, the setting content “8 in 1 (and representative point = 11P)” for realizing the minimum print number is determined as the recommended setting (step S855).

  Alternatively, when only the following two settings, specifically, “4 in 1 (and representative point = 14P)” and “4 in 1 (and representative point = 12P)” are extracted as recommended setting candidates, Of these two, the setting content “4 in 1 (and representative point = 12P)” that realizes the minimum number of printed sheets is determined as the recommended setting (step S855).

  Note that the setting contents for realizing the minimum number of printed sheets may be determined as follows, for example. Specifically, for each of the plurality of setting contents extracted in any of steps S851 to S853, the MFP 10 simply creates print output data and calculates (trial calculation) the number of prints. What is necessary is just to determine the setting content which implement | achieves the smallest print number as a recommended setting.

  Then, the MFP 10 creates display data for displaying the screen GA having the recommended setting content and the like, and transmits the display data to the computer 90 via the network NW. The computer 90 displays the screen GA (GA7 (see FIG. 27)) on the display unit based on the received display data (step S855). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S856.

  FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating an example of the screen GA (specifically, the screen GA7). In this screen GA7, the current setting is “2 in 1”, and when the recommended setting is adopted, “printing pages can be reduced by reduction” or the like is displayed. As a recommended setting, “4 in 1” (and representative point “12P”) is presented. The recommended setting (“4 in 1”) is provisionally selected by a radio button. Thus, in the eco mode, recommended settings (such as “4 in 1”) determined with priority on economy are first presented.

  When approving the recommended setting, the user presses the print button BN15 as it is. When the print button BN15 is pressed, the computer 90 confirms the changed recommended setting as the print setting, generates print output data based on the changed recommended setting, and transmits the print output data to the MFP 10. To do. Then, print output is performed by the MFP 10. That is, print output is performed according to the recommended setting (step S857).

  On the other hand, when the user does not approve the recommended setting, the user presses the cancel button BN16. When the cancel button BN16 is pressed, the computer 90 proceeds to step S803 while maintaining the current print settings (without changing).

  After step S803, the same operation as that after step S503 in the normal mode is executed.

  According to the eco mode as described above, in step S350, print settings (print settings for reducing the number of prints) that are more economical than the current print settings by the user are shown.

  For example, if there is even one person who has determined in the past that a favorable print result has been obtained with a print setting with a “Nin1” setting with a variable magnification smaller than the “Nin1” setting in the current print setting, the print Settings are presented as recommended settings. For example, even if the printing user specifies “2 in 1”, if there is one person who has previously determined that “4 in 1” was “OK”, “4 in 1” is determined and presented as the recommended setting. In short, in this eco mode, the user is presented with a person who has determined that “it is OK to make it smaller” in the past.

  Therefore, this eco mode is particularly useful for users who place great importance on economic efficiency.

  Note that, after the cancel button BN16 is pressed in step S850, the same processing as in the normal mode is executed again, so that the same effect as in the normal mode can be obtained.

<3. Other>
Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described content, and various modifications can be made.

<3-1. Modification Example 1 for Normal Mode>
In the normal mode of the above embodiment (specifically, in step S523 (FIG. 11)), which of “OK” and “NG” occupies a large number in a plurality of determination fields related to a plurality of reference data. Branch processing is performed as a criterion. Further, as described above, whether or not “OK” occupies a large number is determined whether or not the satisfaction degree SV (SV1) exceeds a reference value TV1 (for example, 0.5). Is also expressed. That is, in the above embodiment, the branching process in step S523 is performed based on whether the satisfaction degree SV (SV1) exceeds a reference value (for example, 0.5).

  However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, instead of the above-described satisfaction SV1, the following satisfaction SV2 may be used as a determination criterion for the branch process (step S523). More specifically, as shown in FIG. 28, it may be used as a determination criterion for branch processing in the same step S523b.

  Here, the value MG1 is a value obtained by adding together the weighting coefficients MPi indicating “importance” for each “good setting data” among the plurality of reference data. Similarly, the value MG2 is a value obtained by adding up the weighting coefficients MPi indicating the “importance” for each of the “defective setting data” among the plurality of reference data. As each weighting coefficient MPi, for example, as described above, “1.5” is set for the data of the importance “high”, and “1.3” is set for the data of the importance “medium”. Is set, and “1.0” is set for the data of the importance “low”. As described above, the value NB1 represents the number of “good setting data” among the plurality of reference data, and represents the number of “defective setting data” among the plurality of reference data. That is, the value NB1 is the number of “OK” data, and the value NB2 is the number of “NG” data.

  Thus, the satisfaction degree SV2 is a satisfaction degree calculated by weighting with the “importance” of each reference data.

  Further, in step S531b (FIG. 28) similar to step S531 (FIG. 11), such a satisfaction degree SV2 may be presented to the user.

  Alternatively, a value different from the satisfaction degree SV (SV1, SV2) as described above may be used as the evaluation value in step S523 or the like. For example, “+1” points are assigned to “OK data” as evaluation points, “−1” points are assigned to “NG data” as evaluation points, and a total value of evaluation points regarding a plurality of reference data is obtained. The evaluation value SV (SV3) may be used. Specifically, whether or not the evaluation value SV3 is larger than a reference value TV3 (for example, “0”) may be used as a determination criterion. Or you may make it calculate the weighted average value which weighted the evaluation score with respect to each reference data with the "importance" of each reference data as evaluation value SV (SV4). Specifically, whether or not the evaluation value SV4 is larger than a reference value TV4 (for example, “0”) may be used as a determination criterion.

<3-2. Modification Example 2 for Normal Mode>
FIG. 29 is a diagram showing another modification. As shown in FIG. 29, when it is determined that “OK” and “NG” are mixed in a plurality of determination columns related to the plurality of reference data extracted in step S505, steps S521 to S522 are performed. Alternatively, the process may proceed to step S541. In other words, the process may proceed to step S541 without going through step S523.

  In step S541, the recommended setting determining unit 18 determines the “Nin1” setting content in the post-change data (“improvement setting data”) associated with the “defective setting data” (NG data) as the recommended setting. Specifically, the setting content “Nin1” of the minimum magnification in the changed data (“improvement setting data”) associated with “defective setting data” (NG data) among the plurality of reference data is determined as the recommended setting. .

  Further, the recommended setting determination unit 18 calculates an evaluation value (occupation rate evaluation value) BV related to a ratio (occupation rate) occupied by “defective setting data” among a plurality of reference data. The occupancy rate evaluation value BV is calculated by, for example, the following equation (3), and is also referred to as “unsatisfied”.

  Note that the occupation rate evaluation value (degree of dissatisfaction) BV may be calculated by the following equation (4).

  Then, the MFP 10 causes the computer 90 to display a screen GA including both the recommended setting and the degree of dissatisfaction (for example, the screen GA4 (see FIG. 24)) and presents the screen GA to the user.

  FIG. 24 shows that the dissatisfaction level (probability of not being satisfied) with respect to the current print setting is “70%”. According to this, the user can determine whether or not to change the current print setting while referring to the degree of dissatisfaction with the current print setting.

  In addition, on the screen GA4 in FIG. 24, recommended settings in place of the current print settings are also presented. Specifically, “2 in 1” instead of “4 in 1” set by the user is presented as a recommended setting. Therefore, it is possible to easily determine the print setting after the change.

<3-3. Other>
Moreover, although the case where the setting content regarding a font size etc. was memorize | stored in the said embodiment was illustrated, it is not limited to this. For example, the setting content related to the font type may be stored. FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an example of data stored in such a modification. In FIG. 30, in addition to the font size and the like, font types (“Gothic”, “Mincho”, etc.) relating to the setting data before and after the change are also stored.

  In the extraction in steps S501 to S505, print setting data BSi having the same “representative font type” as the “representative font type” of the new print target data ND is further narrowed down and extracted. Also good.

  Furthermore, when the font type is changed in the changed setting data, as shown in FIG. 31, the changed font type may be presented to the user as a recommended setting. According to this, for example, it is possible to recommend a more appropriate setting reflecting characteristics such as a small Gothic character being more likely to be crushed (more difficult to see) than a small Mincho character. .

  In the above-described embodiment, the case where the recommended setting determination operation for the new print target data ND is determined based on all the print setting data BSi accumulated in the print setting data storage unit 5b is illustrated. However, it is not limited to this. For example, the recommended setting for the new print target data ND may be determined based on the latest predetermined number of print setting data BSi or based on the print setting data BSi accumulated within the latest predetermined period. Good.

5b Print setting data storage unit 10 MFP (printing apparatus)
90 Computer 100 Printing System BDi (Past) Print Target Data BSi (Past) Print Setting Data (Print History Data)
BV occupancy rate evaluation value (dissatisfaction)
ND (New) print target data NS (New print target data) print setting PG1 Application software program PG2 Printer driver SV Occupancy rate evaluation value (satisfaction)

Claims (26)

A printing system,
Setting history management means for storing print setting data used for past printing in the print setting data storage means;
A determination unit that determines a recommended setting for a print setting at the time of a new print process based on at least one print setting data stored in the print setting data storage unit;
A printing system comprising: The printing system according to claim 1,
The setting history management unit obtains print setting data relating to each print target data each time a series of print processing for each print target data is performed and a series of print processing constituted by a plurality of times or one print output is performed. A printing system characterized by storing at any time. The printing system according to claim 2,
The setting history management unit evaluates the print setting data at the time of the first printing of each of the past print target data, and stores the print setting data classified into good setting data and bad setting data. Characteristic printing system. The printing system according to claim 3.
The setting history management means includes
When the series of print processes is completed without changing the settings, the print setting data at the time of the series of print processes and not requiring change is classified and stored as good setting data,
When reprinting is performed with a setting change in the series of printing processes, the pre-change data that is the print setting data that needs to be changed and is the print setting data before the change is classified and stored as defective setting data. In addition, the printing system is characterized in that post-change data, which is post-change print setting data for the pre-change print setting data, is stored in association with the defect setting data as improvement setting data. The printing system according to claim 4,
The determining means includes
The printing system, wherein the recommended setting is determined based on at least one reference data extracted as satisfying one or more conditions from the at least one print setting data. The printing system according to claim 5, wherein
The at least one print setting data includes a plurality of print setting data related to printing by a plurality of users classified into a plurality of age groups,
The determination unit satisfies the first condition that the print setting data is for a user of the same age group who is a user who belongs to the same age group as the age group of the print setter who executes the new printing process. A printing system, wherein print setting data is extracted as the at least one reference data, and the recommended setting is determined based on the at least one reference data. The printing system according to claim 5, wherein
Each of the at least one print setting data includes setting contents related to the Nin1 setting item,
The determination unit extracts, as the at least one reference data, print setting data that satisfies a second condition that the print setting data has the same setting content as the setting content related to the Nin1 setting item in the new print process. And the recommended setting is determined based on the at least one reference data. The printing system according to claim 7,
The at least one print setting data includes a plurality of print setting data related to printing by a plurality of users classified into a plurality of age groups,
The determination means includes a first condition that the print setting data relates to a user of the same age group who is a user who belongs to the same age group as the age group of the print setter who executes the new print process, and the first 2. A printing system, wherein print setting data satisfying both of the two conditions is extracted as the at least one reference data, and the recommended setting is determined based on the at least one reference data. The printing system according to any one of claims 6 to 8,
The determination means includes at least print setting data satisfying a third condition that the print setting data is related to a representative font size identical to a representative font size of characters in the print target data in the new print processing. A printing system, wherein the recommended setting is extracted as one reference data and the recommended setting is determined based on the at least one reference data. The printing system according to claim 5, wherein
The determination unit, when all of the at least one reference data is the good setting data, determines a print setting by a user at the time of the new printing process as the recommended setting as it is. The printing system according to claim 7,
The at least one reference data includes a plurality of reference data;
When the evaluation value of the occupancy rate of the defect setting data in the plurality of reference data is greater than a predetermined reference value, the determination unit is configured to perform the improvement associated with the defect setting data in the plurality of reference data. A printing system, wherein the Nin1 setting content in setting data is determined as the recommended setting. The printing system according to claim 7,
The at least one reference data includes a plurality of reference data;
When the evaluation value of the occupancy rate of the defect setting data in the plurality of reference data is greater than a predetermined reference value, the determination unit is configured to perform the improvement associated with the defect setting data in the plurality of reference data. A printing system characterized in that the minimum magnification Nin1 setting content in setting data is determined as the recommended setting. The printing system according to claim 5, wherein
The at least one reference data includes a plurality of reference data;
The determining means determines the print setting at the time of the new print process as the recommended setting as it is when the evaluation value of the occupation ratio of the good setting data among the plurality of reference data is larger than a predetermined reference value. A printing system featuring. The printing system according to claim 5, wherein
The at least one reference data includes a plurality of reference data;
The determination unit causes the user to present an evaluation value of the occupation ratio of the good setting data among the plurality of reference data as a satisfaction degree regarding the print setting at the time of the new print processing. The printing system according to claim 7,
The at least one reference data includes a plurality of reference data;
The determination unit causes the user to present an evaluation value of the occupation rate of the defect setting data among the plurality of reference data as a degree of dissatisfaction regarding the print setting at the time of the new printing process. The printing system according to claim 15, wherein
The determination unit determines a minimum magnification Nin1 setting content in the improvement setting data associated with the defect setting data among the plurality of reference data as the recommended setting. The printing system according to claim 4,
Importance level acquisition means for acquiring the importance level of new print target data relating to the new print process;
Further comprising
The setting history management unit also manages information on the font size before and after the change when reprinting is performed with a change in the font size of the character for each print target data,
The determining means determines the recommended setting using information related to a font size of a type corresponding to the importance of the new print target data and stored as the improvement setting data. Printing system to do. The printing system according to claim 17.
The pre-change data has information on the maximum font size that is the size of the largest character in the print target data corresponding to the pre-change data,
The post-change data has information on the maximum font size that is the size of the largest character in the print target data corresponding to the post-change data,
When the importance of the new print target data is smaller than the first reference value, the determining means sets the maximum font size changed in the post-change data to the corrected character of the new print target data. A printing system that is recommended as the maximum font size. The printing system according to claim 18.
The pre-change data has information on the minimum font size that is the size of the smallest character in the print target data corresponding to the pre-change data,
The post-change data has information on the minimum font size that is the size of the smallest character in the print target data corresponding to the post-change data,
When the importance of the new print target data is greater than a second reference value, the determining means sets the minimum font size changed in the post-change data to the corrected character of the new print target data. A printing system that is recommended as the minimum font size. The printing system according to claim 19, wherein
The pre-change data has information on a representative font size that is a representative character size in print target data corresponding to the pre-change data,
The post-change data has information on a representative font size that is a representative character size in print target data corresponding to the post-change data,
When the importance of the new print target data exists between the first reference value and the second reference value, the determination unit sets the representative font size changed in the changed data to the representative font size. A printing system which is recommended as a representative font size of characters after correction of new print target data. The printing system according to claim 4,
The setting history management unit also manages information on the font size before and after the change when reprinting is performed with a change in the font size of the character for each print target data,
The pre-change data has information on the maximum font size that is the size of the largest character in the print target data corresponding to the pre-change data,
The post-change data has information on the maximum font size that is the size of the largest character in the print target data corresponding to the post-change data,
The determination system recommends the maximum font size changed in the post-change data as the maximum font size of characters after correction of new print target data related to the new print processing. The printing system according to claim 3.
The determining means determines, as the recommended setting, a print setting that realizes a print number smaller than the number of prints by a user print setting for the new print process among the print settings of the good setting data. Printing system to do. The printing system according to claim 3.
The setting history management means includes
When generating a plurality of copies of printed output in the series of printing processes, the first copy is output, the print output result is confirmed, and whether or not the remaining copies are to be continuously printed out with the print settings as they are. In the confirmation print mode to judge,
When the setting change for the print setting of the first copy is made, the print setting data at the time of printing the first copy is classified into the defect setting data,
The printing system according to claim 1, wherein when the setting change for the print setting of the first copy is not performed, the print setting data at the time of printing of the first copy is classified into the good setting data. The printing system according to claim 3.
The setting history management means includes
When generating a print output in the series of printing processes, it is determined whether or not reprinting has been performed within a specified time for certain print target data;
When the second printing, which is reprinting with a setting change for the print setting at the time of the first printing, is performed within a specified time, the print setting data at the time of the first printing is changed to the defect setting data. Assorted,
When reprinting with a setting change for the print setting at the time of the first printing is not performed within the specified time, the print setting data at the time of the first printing is classified into the good setting data. Characteristic printing system. A printing device,
Setting history management means for storing print setting data used for past printing in the print setting data storage means;
A determination unit that determines a recommended setting for a print setting at the time of a new print process based on at least one print setting data stored in the print setting data storage unit;
A printing apparatus comprising: On the computer,
a) storing print setting data used for past printing in the print setting data storage means;
b) determining recommended settings related to print settings for a new print process based on at least one print setting data stored in the print setting data storage means;
A program for running

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