JP2020058040A - Image forming apparatus, image forming system, control method of the same, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a mechanism that appropriately presents a user with an image related to a repair request.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus acquires a receivable time that is a time period during which a request destination of a request related to the image forming apparatus can receive the request; determines if the current time is within the receivable time or out of the receivable time; displays a request object for receiving an operation of the request; receives the operation to the request object to transmit the request to the request destination; when the current time is within the receivable time, displays the request object while allowing reception of the operation of the request; and when the current time is out of the receivable time, changes the display of the request object so that the current time can be identified to be out of the receivable time.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5A

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, an image forming system, a control method thereof, and a program.

  In recent years, a management system for remotely managing an image forming apparatus via a network has become widespread. In the management system, the management apparatus receives various information from the image forming apparatus via a network, and issues a dispatch instruction of a serviceman who performs repairs based on the information, a shipping instruction of toner and ink, and the like.

  The information received by the management apparatus is, for example, information that can be detected on the image forming apparatus side. For example, the information includes operation information such as the status of the image forming apparatus and the remaining amount of ink, error information such as out of toner and paper jam, and information such as failure information of the image forming apparatus.

  For example, in Patent Literature 1, a panel for notifying a request for repair of an image forming apparatus is installed in the image forming apparatus, and a screen for inputting the content of an error when a button of the panel is received is received ( (Web page) is created and presented to the user, and a repair request mail in which the URL of the WEB page is described is created and transmitted.

JP 2005-190044 A

  When a repair request is made to the user of the repair request source, it is desirable that a response to the request and the repair of the repair target be performed immediately. However, the request destination of the repair request may be in a state where it takes time to respond to the request.

  For example, if the time at which the repair request was made is outside the business hours of the repair request destination such as a support center, no response to the repair request is made from the time the repair request is made until the business start time of the next day, A large time lag occurs from the repair request to the response.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a mechanism for appropriately presenting an image relating to a repair request to a user.

  For example, a mechanism is provided for appropriately displaying a request object that receives an operation of a request for the image forming apparatus using information on a time when the request can be received.

  In the image forming apparatus of the present invention, a time acquisition unit that acquires a receivable time, which is a time during which a request destination of the request can accept a request for the image forming device, from a storage unit, and a current time is acquired by the time acquisition unit. A time determining unit that determines whether the time is within the receivable time or outside the receivable time, a display unit that displays a request object that receives the operation of the request, and an operation on the request object displayed by the display unit is received, Transmitting means for transmitting a request to the image forming apparatus to a request destination, wherein the display means, when the time determination means determines that the current time is within the receivable time, When the request object is displayed so as to be able to accept the operation, and when the time determination unit determines that the current time is outside the acceptable time, And changing the display of the request object so as to be identified that serial is admissible overtime requests.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a mechanism for appropriately presenting an image relating to a repair request to a user.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an image forming system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a mail server and a PC in the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a multifunction peripheral according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of various devices according to the embodiment of the present invention. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of a screen display process based on time information when a repair request application is activated in the embodiment of the present invention. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of a screen display process based on time information when a repair request button is pressed in the embodiment of the present invention. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of a repair request process according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 6 is a flowchart showing a flow of a repair request cancellation and repair request completion process in the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of various data tables according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of button data according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a mail template according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display state of a screen according to time information according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure in the embodiment of the present invention which shows an example of composition of a repair request screen. It is a figure in the embodiment of the present invention which shows an example of composition of a repair request contents confirmation screen. It is a figure in the embodiment of the present invention which shows an example of the composition of the notice screen which notifies that it is out of the repair request possible time. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a state of a screen transition at the time of a repair request in the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a state of screen transition at the time of cancellation processing of a repair request in the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a screen transition during a repair request completion process in the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of functions of a repair request application and a platform in the embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention which shows the flow of a repair request process. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of a process of reading an image used for a repair request according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a state of a screen transition when reading an image used for a repair request in the second embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure in an embodiment of the present invention which shows an example of a display state of a screen according to time information in an embodiment of the present invention.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments to which the present invention is applied will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  Hereinafter, when simply describing processes, data, screens, and the like “in the embodiment of the present invention”, those common to the first embodiment and the second embodiment of the present invention are described with respect to common processes, data, and screens. I do. In the description of the present embodiment, it is assumed that the multifunction peripheral is an image forming apparatus.

  A platform and a repair request application are installed in the multifunction peripheral 300. The processing of the flowcharts in the respective drawings in the embodiment of the present invention is such that the CPU of the multifunction peripheral 300 executes the processing of the platform or the repair request application. It shall be executed using the function.

  Hereinafter, the description of the processing in which each application is the subject (subject of processing) is the processing executed by the CPU of the MFP 300 using the function of the application described as the processing subject.

  First, an example of a configuration of an image forming system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an image forming system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  The multifunction peripheral 300 has time information (repair request (request relating to the image forming apparatus) can be received) at the support center, which is the destination of the repair request of the multifunction peripheral 300, (see the repair request in FIG. 8). Possible time 803 / predetermined time information).

  For example, each time the display screen is updated, the multifunction peripheral 300 determines whether the current time is within the time (within a predetermined time) at which the repair request can be made, and determines whether the current time is at the time at which the repair request can be made. In the case of, the process of displaying the repair request button, which is a button for repair request, on the display screen is selectable. If the current time is not the time at which the repair request is possible, the repair request button cannot be selected. And performs a process of displaying on the display screen.

  The multifunction peripheral 300 receives a press of the repair request button, receives an input of the content of the repair request, receives an instruction to perform a repair request (to the PC 200) to the support center, and A mail for requesting repair is created, and the mail is transmitted to the mail server 100. The mail server 100 transmits the mail to the mail address of the repair request destination.

  The mail server 101 is a mail server installed at the support center. The PC 200 is a terminal of a repair request destination. For example, the person in charge of repairing the MFP 300 confirms the repair request mail received by the PC 200 and goes to the installation location of the MFP 300. The above is an explanation of an example of the configuration of the image forming system in the embodiment of the present invention in FIG.

  Next, an example of a hardware configuration of the mail server and the PC in the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the mail server and the PC in the embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 2, reference numeral 201 denotes a CPU, which comprehensively controls each device and controller connected to the system bus 204. The ROM 202 or the external memory 211 includes a basic input / output system (BIOS) or an operating system program (hereinafter, referred to as an OS), which is a control program of the CPU 201, and a function to be executed by each server or each PC. Various programs described later are stored.

  A RAM 203 functions as a main memory, a work area, and the like for the CPU 201. The CPU 201 loads various programs and the like necessary for executing processing from the ROM 202 or the external memory 211 into the RAM 203 and executes the loaded programs to realize various operations.

  An input controller 205 controls input from a keyboard (KB), which is the input device 209, and a pointing device such as a mouse (not shown). A video controller 206 controls display on a display such as a CRT display (CRT) 210. In FIG. 2, the CRT 210 is described, but the display is not limited to the CRT but may be another display such as a liquid crystal display. These are used by the administrator as needed.

  A memory controller 207 is connected to a hard disk (HD) for storing a boot program, various applications, font data, user files, edit files, various data, and the like, a flexible disk (FD), or a PCMCIA card slot via an adapter. Access to an external memory 211 such as a compact flash (registered trademark) memory.

  A communication I / F controller 208 connects and communicates with an external device via a network (for example, the LAN 150 shown in FIG. 1), and executes communication control processing on the network. For example, communication using TCP / IP is possible.

  Note that the CPU 201 enables the display on the CRT 210 by executing, for example, an outline font developing (rasterizing) process on a display information area in the RAM 203. Further, the CPU 201 enables a user instruction with a mouse cursor (not shown) on the CRT 210.

  Various programs described below for realizing the present invention are recorded in the external memory 211, and are executed by the CPU 201 by being loaded into the RAM 203 as necessary. Further, a definition file and various information tables used when executing the program are also stored in the external memory 211, and a detailed description thereof will be described later. The above is an explanation of an example of the hardware configuration of the mail server and the PC in the embodiment of the present invention in FIG.

  Next, an example of a hardware configuration of the multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  3, a controller unit 316 is connected to a scanner 314 functioning as an image input device and a printer unit 312 functioning as an image output device, and is connected to a LAN (for example, the LAN 150 shown in FIG. 1) or a public line (WAN). / External network) (for example, PSTN or ISDN) to input and output image data and device information.

  In the controller unit 316, reference numeral 301 denotes a CPU, which is a processor that controls the entire system. Reference numeral 302 denotes a RAM, which is a system work memory for the operation of the CPU 301, and is also a program memory for recording programs and an image memory for temporarily recording image data.

  A ROM 303 stores a system boot program and various control programs. A hard disk drive (HDD) 304 stores various programs for controlling the system, image data, and the like.

  An operation unit interface (operation unit I / F) 307 is an interface unit with the operation unit (keyboard) 308. The operation unit I / F 307 also has a function of transmitting key information (for example, pressing a start button) input from the operation unit 308 to the CPU 301.

  A network interface (Network I / F) 305 connects to a network (LAN) 150. In addition, it is configured to be capable of wireless communication, and is connected to another device by communication using infrared rays, Bluetooth (registered trademark), or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). Input and output data. A modem (MODEM) 306 is connected to a public line and performs input / output of data such as facsimile transmission / reception.

  Reference numeral 318 denotes an external interface (external I / F), which is an I / F unit that receives external inputs such as USB, IEEE1394, a printer port, and RS-232C. In the present embodiment, an IC card of a portable terminal required for authentication is used. A card reader 319 for reading (storage medium) is connected to the external I / F unit 318. The CPU 301 controls reading of information from the IC card of the portable terminal by the card reader 319 via the external I / F 318, and can acquire information read from the IC card of the portable terminal. The above devices are arranged on the system bus 309.

Reference numeral 320 denotes an image bus interface (IMAGE BUS I / F), which is a bus bridge that connects the system bus 309 and the image bus 315 that transfers image data at high speed, and converts the data structure.
The image bus 315 is configured by a PCI bus or IEEE1394. The following devices are arranged on the image bus 315.

  A raster image processor (RIP) 310 develops vector data such as a PDL code into a bitmap image. A printer interface (printer I / F) 311 connects the printer unit 312 and the controller unit 316 and performs synchronous / asynchronous conversion of image data. A scanner interface (scanner I / F) 313 connects the scanner 314 and the controller unit 316 and performs synchronous / asynchronous conversion of image data.

  An image processing unit 317 performs correction, processing, and editing on input image data, and performs printer correction and resolution conversion on print output image data. In addition, the image processing unit 317 performs rotation of the image data, and compression / expansion processing such as JBIG, MMR, and MH for multi-valued image data.

  The scanner unit 314 illuminates an image on paper serving as a document and scans the image with a CCD line sensor, thereby converting the image to raster image data into an electric signal. The manuscript paper is set on the tray of the manuscript feeder, and the apparatus user gives an instruction to start reading from the operation unit 308, so that the CPU 301 gives an instruction to the scanner 314, and the feeder feeds the manuscript paper one by one to read the manuscript image. I do.

  The printer unit 312 is a unit that converts raster image data into an image on a sheet. The method is an electrophotographic method using a photosensitive drum or a photosensitive belt. There is an ink jet system for printing an image and the like, but any system may be used. The activation of the printing operation is started by an instruction from the CPU 301. The printer unit 312 has a plurality of paper feed stages so that different paper sizes or different paper orientations can be selected, and has a paper cassette corresponding thereto.

  The operation unit 308 has an LCD display unit, a touch panel sheet is stuck on the LCD, displays an operation screen of the system, and when a displayed key is pressed, the position information is displayed on the operation unit I / F 307. To the CPU 301 via. The operation unit 308 includes, for example, a start key, a stop key, an ID key, and a reset key as various operation keys.

  The display unit has different display performance depending on the printer. The present invention is based on a printer that can be operated through a touch panel, or a printer that simply has a liquid crystal screen and displays a character string (display of the print status and the name of the document being printed). Is composed.

  Here, the start key of the operation unit 308 is used to start a reading operation of a document image. At the center of the start key, there are two-color LEDs of green and red, which indicate whether or not the start key can be used. The stop key of the operation unit 308 functions to stop the operation during operation. The ID key of the operation unit 308 is used to input a user ID of a user. The reset key is used to initialize settings from the operation unit.

  The card reader 319 reads information stored in an IC card (which may be provided in the portable terminal as an IC chip) under the control of the CPU 301, and reads the read information via the external I / F 318. Notify to Further, the card reader 319 is compatible with the NFC communication standard, and has a configuration in which reading and writing can be performed on an IC card or an IC chip of a portable terminal. Note that when a mobile terminal compliant with the NFC standard is held over a card reader compliant with the NFC standard, authentication is performed and pairing between the mobile terminal and a printer (multifunction peripheral) is performed. Then, it is possible to establish communication (P2P) between the held portable terminal and the printer (multifunction peripheral) to perform data communication. In addition, it is possible to take over communication (handover) to Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark), which are high-speed communication standards, and to cause communication between a portable terminal and a printer (multifunction peripheral). For example, by holding the mobile terminal over a card reader, an image stored in the mobile terminal can be transmitted to a printer (multifunction peripheral). Note that the details of the NFC communication standard are conventional techniques, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

  In the MFP 300 described above, there is a platform for controlling the MFP 300, and an authentication application for communicating with the authentication server runs on the platform. The authentication application is stored in the HDD 304. An area is secured on the HDD 304 for a login context that stores user information at the time of login and various setting information managed by the platform.

In addition, on the platform, an application in which the main body function of the multifunction peripheral 300 is extended is installed and operates. These applications are executed using the platform API.
The configuration is such that each function of the printer can be controlled via this platform.

  The multifunction peripheral 300 also stores a Web browser, and can cooperate with a Web system. In this case, the screen received from the Web application server is displayed using a Web browser. The instruction instructed on the Web browser is requested to the Web application server, and the operation (scanning or printing processing) can be executed by the multifunction peripheral 300 by receiving the instruction from the Web application server.

  With the above configuration, the multifunction peripheral 300 can transmit image data read from the scanner 314 onto the LAN 150 and print out print data received from the LAN 150 using the printer unit 312.

  Further, the image data read from the scanner 314 can be transmitted by fax over the public line by the modem 306, and the image data received by fax from the public line can be output by the printer unit 312. The above is an explanation of an example of the hardware configuration of the multifunction peripheral in the embodiment of the present invention in FIG.

  Next, an example of the functions of the repair request application and the platform in the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of functions of a repair request application and a platform in the embodiment of the present invention.

  In the multifunction peripheral 300, a platform (OS) and a repair request application are set.

  The platform includes, for example, a print function (print function unit) for printing print data, and a facsimile function (FAX function unit) for generating FAX data and transmitting it to a transmission destination. Further, an error of each of the function units (not limited to the print function unit and the FAX function unit) arranged on the platform, such as the print function unit and the FAX function unit, is detected, and an error code is sent to the repair request application. (Error control function unit).

  In addition, the platform includes, for example, a display function (display function unit) that displays a main menu screen for instructing the user to select / execute the print function or the FAX function on a screen (display screen) that displays the display. Prepare. For example, a print icon and a facsimile icon are arranged on the main menu screen and displayed on the display screen. In addition, an object (repair request button) for executing the function of the repair request application acquired from the repair request application is displayed.

  The button is an example of an object for executing the function of the repair request application. As long as the object is used for executing the function of the repair request application, for example, the icon may be an icon (repair request icon) or another type of object. That is, the object includes a button and an icon.

  Hereinafter, in the description of the embodiment, a description will be given using a button (repair request button).

  The platform further includes a print data storage function, a scan data generation / storage function by scanning a document (image reading), an operation history storage function of storing various operation histories, and the like.

  The repair request application is set on the platform and has a function of generating and transmitting a mail such as a repair request mail (mail function unit). Further, it has an error code storage function of storing the error code acquired from the platform in a memory.

  Data transmission / reception between the repair request application and each function of the platform is performed via the platform (OS). That is, for example, when displaying the repair request button, the repair request application transmits the button image of the repair request button and the display instruction of the button image to the platform, and the platform that has acquired the button image is in the platform. Is transmitted to the display function unit of (1), the button image and an instruction to display the button image on the main menu screen. Then, the display function unit that receives the instruction generates a main menu screen on which the buttons are arranged and outputs the generated main menu screen to the display as a display screen.

  In the case of mail transmission, the repair request application transmits the mail data generated by the repair request application and information on the transmission destination to the platform. The platform application receives this, and sends out the mail on the network using the communication function with the external network. The above is an explanation of an example of the functions of the repair request application and the platform in the embodiment of the present invention in FIG.

  Next, an example of a functional configuration of various devices according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of various devices according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 4, when an error is detected in the multifunction peripheral 300, an error information transmission unit 401 of the platform transmits error information (for example, an error code that is error identification information) of the error to a repair request application. Notify. The error information notified here includes, for example, a code relating to a failure of the image forming apparatus such as a print defect, and a code indicating information other than the failure such as running out of toner.

  The error information receiving unit 402 of the repair request application receives error information from the platform. The error information storage control unit 403 stores the error information received by the error information receiving unit 402 in a storage area such as an external memory of the MFP 300.

  The repair request possible time obtaining unit 404 of the repair request application obtains information on the repair request possible time from a storage area such as an external memory of the MFP 300. The repair requestable time is information on the time at which a repair request for the multifunction peripheral 300 can be made. The possible repair request time is stored in advance in a storage area such as an external memory of the MFP 300.

  For example, when the MFP 300 receives an instruction to transition to a display screen including a repair request button (a button for making a repair request / details will be described later) in the multifunction peripheral 300, Acquire the repair request available time. In addition, when an update instruction of a screen displaying the repair request button being displayed on the display screen is received, the repair request available time is acquired. In addition, when the press of the repair request button is received, the possible repair request time is acquired.

  The repair request application time determination unit 405 compares the current time with the repair request possible time acquired by the repair request possible time acquisition unit 404, and determines whether the current time is within the time indicated by the repair request possible time.

  For example, if the repair request time is 09: 00 to 17:00, it is determined whether the current time is 09: 00 to 17:00. If the current time is from 17:00:08 to 08:59:59, it is determined that the time is out of time. If the current time is from 09:00:00 to 17:00:00, it is determined that it is within the time. I do.

  The repair request button display control unit 406 of the repair request application performs display control of the repair request button according to the determination result of the time determination unit 405. For example, if the current time is within the time of the repair request possible time, it is determined that the repair request button is displayed to be selectable, and the platform is instructed to display the repair request button in the selectable display screen.

  Also, for example, if the current time is outside the time of the repair request possible time, it is determined that the display is made so that the repair request button cannot be selected, and the platform is displayed so that the repair request button cannot be selected on the display screen. To instruct.

  In the embodiment of the present invention, it is assumed that there are a plurality of types of repair request buttons. Hereinafter, the repair request button displayed when the current time is within the time of the repair requestable time and the repair request is not being performed is referred to as a “request button” (request object / repair requestable time and not being requested). Button that can identify that). The repair request button displayed when a repair request is being made is referred to as a “requesting button” (a button that can identify that the requested object / request has been transmitted). When the current time is outside the time of the repair request possible time and the repair request is not being made, the repair request button displayed is “out of time button” Button that can identify that).

  The out-of-time button is a repair request button that is displayed in a non-selectable manner (eg, grayed out).

  The repair request screen display control unit 407 of the repair request application instructs the platform to display a repair request screen, which is a screen for the user to input the contents of the repair request, when the press of the above request button is received. I do.

  The error information acquisition unit 408 of the repair request application acquires the error information stored by the error information storage control unit 403 when receiving a display instruction of the error information (error code) on the repair request screen.

  When receiving a display instruction of error information (error code) on the displayed repair request screen, the repair request screen display control unit 407 displays a repair request screen including the error information acquired by the error information acquisition unit 408. , Tell the platform.

  The repair request mail transmission unit 409 of the repair request application creates and transmits a mail (repair request mail) including the content of the repair request accepted on the repair request screen.

  The repair request mail receiver 411 of the mail server 100 receives the repair request mail transmitted from the repair request mail transmitter 409. The repair request mail transmitting unit 412 transmits the repair request mail received by the repair request mail receiving unit 411 to the destination address (request destination of the repair request) included in the repair request mail.

  The repair request mail receiver 413 of the mail server 101 receives the repair request mail transmitted from the repair request mail transmitter 412. The repair request mail transmitting section 414 transmits the repair request mail received by the repair request mail receiving section 413 to the destination address (request destination of the repair request) included in the repair request mail.

  The repair request mail receiver 421 of the PC 200 receives the repair request mail transmitted from the repair request mail transmitter 414. The above is an explanation of an example of the functional configuration of various devices in the embodiment of the present invention in FIG.

  [First Embodiment]

  Next, with reference to FIG. 5A, a flow of a screen display process based on time information when a repair request application is activated in the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 5A is a flowchart illustrating a flow of a screen display process based on time information when a repair request application is activated according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The time information referred to here is the above-mentioned repair request possible time.

  As described above, each process of the flowchart illustrated in FIG. 5A is executed by the CPU of the MFP 300 using the function of the platform or the repair request application.

  The CPU 301 of the multifunction peripheral 300 executes activation of a repair request application. That is, the repair request application receives an instruction to start the repair request application from the platform (step S501). That is, the notification of the display of the main menu is received.

  The repair request application acquires a repair request status stored in the external memory of the multifunction peripheral 300 (step S502). The repair request status is a status indicating whether repair of the MFP 300 is being requested (repair request is being made) or repair is not requested. The repair request status will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Here, an example of the configuration of various data tables according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of various data tables in the embodiment of the present invention.

  The data table 800 includes a mail server host name 801, a mail address 802, a possible repair request time 803, and the like. The mail server host name 801 indicates the host name of the mail server to which the repair request mail is transmitted (request destination). The data table 800 is stored in an external memory of the MFP 300.

  The mail address 802 indicates the mail address of the transmission destination (request destination) of the repair request mail. The repair request possible time 803 indicates a time during which a repair request mail can be transmitted to the request destination.

  The repair request status 810 is information indicating whether or not a repair request is being made to a request destination of the repair request (repair request destination) (information indicating whether or not the request has been transmitted). When the repair request status 810 = true, it indicates that a repair request is being made. When the repair request status 810 = false, it indicates that repair has not been requested.

  The error code 820 is a table that stores the error code when the repair request application receives error information (error code) of the MFP 300 from the platform. When the error cancellation notification is received from the platform, the error code of the error code 820 is deleted.

  That is, the error code 820 is a table that stores the error code of the currently occurring error.

  Specifically, the repair request status 810 is included in a file that holds the contents of a repair request, such as a repair request content holding file 830. The repair request content holding file 830 is stored in a storage area such as an external memory of the multifunction peripheral 300, and the items of the repair request content holding file 830 are stored when the repair request is transmitted to the request destination, or Updated when the repair request is canceled. The above is an explanation of an example of the configuration of various data tables in the embodiment of the present invention in FIG.

  Returning to the description of FIG. 5A. The repair request application refers to the repair request status acquired in step S502 to determine whether or not a repair request is being made (step S503 / request status determination means). If it is determined that the repair is not requested (NO in step S503), the process proceeds to step S504. If it is determined that a repair request is being made (YES in step S503), the process proceeds to step S507.

  In step S504, the repair request application acquires information on the repair request possible time 803 (step S504 / predetermined time acquisition means). Further, information on the current time is obtained. The current time information is measured by the platform using a clock function included in the function of the platform. The repair request application obtains information on the current time measured by the clock function from the platform.

  The repair request application determines whether the current time is within the time indicated by the repair request available time 803 (step S505 / time determination unit). If the current time is within the time indicated by the repair request possible time 803 (YES in step S505), a display instruction of a selectable repair request button (request button) is transmitted to the platform (step S506).

  Specifically, referring to the button data 900 stored in the external memory of the multifunction peripheral 300 as shown in FIG. 9, a button image 902 and a character string 903 corresponding to “state 901 = repair not requested” are obtained. Then, the display instruction of the button image is transmitted to the platform.

  The button data 900 in FIG. 9 includes the button image data (button image 902) and the character string 903 displayed together with the button in the state 901 (repair not requested, repair requested, or out of repair request time). It is a data table stored in association with information. It is assumed that the button data 900 is stored in a storage area such as an external memory of the MFP 300 in advance.

  In accordance with the instruction, the platform performs a process of displaying a menu screen on which a request button is selectably arranged on the display screen of the multifunction peripheral 300. For example, a main menu screen on which a request button 1101 (selectable repair request button) is arranged, such as a main menu screen 1100 in FIG. 11, is displayed.

  If it is determined in step S505 that the current time is outside the time indicated by the repair request possible time 803 (NO in step S505), the repair request application sets the time corresponding to the repair request button indicating that the time is outside the time. The platform of the MFP 300 is instructed to arrange and display an outside button (for example, the outside time button 1121 in FIG. 11) on the menu screen.

  Specifically, with reference to the button data 900 of FIG. 9, a button image 902 and a character string 903 corresponding to “state 901 = out of repair request time” are acquired, and a display instruction of the button image is transmitted to the platform. Send.

  In accordance with the instruction, the platform displays a menu screen on which the after hours button is arranged on the display screen of the multifunction peripheral 300. For example, a screen such as a main menu screen 1120 in FIG. 11 is displayed.

  The out-of-time button is a type of a repair request button. The out-of-time button is a button indicating that the current time is outside the time indicated by the repair request possible time 803 and that a repair request cannot be made at the current time. The out-of-time button is a non-selectable repair request button, and is displayed on the menu screen in a grayed-out state so that it cannot be selected, as shown by the out-of-time button 1121 on the main menu screen 1120 in FIG. Button.

  That is, the CPU 301 of the multifunction peripheral 300 displays on the display screen a menu screen arranged so that the repair request button cannot be selected.

  If it is determined in step S503 that a repair request is currently being made (YES in step S503), the CPU 301 of the MFP 300 arranges and displays a requesting button (a requesting button 1111 in FIG. 11) on a menu screen. To the platform of the multifunction peripheral 300 (step S507).

  Specifically, with reference to the button data 900 of FIG. 9, a button image 902 and a character string 903 corresponding to “state 901 = repair requested” are acquired, and a display instruction of the button image is transmitted to the platform. .

  In accordance with the instruction, the platform of the multifunction peripheral 300 displays a menu screen on which a requesting button is arranged on the display screen of the multifunction peripheral 300. For example, a screen such as a main menu screen 1110 in FIG. 11 is displayed.

  The requesting button is one type of a repair request button. The requesting button is a button indicating that a repair request is currently being made. A button for displaying on the display screen a repair request contents confirmation screen (1620 in FIG. 16, 1720 in FIG. 17, each screen in FIG. 13, etc.) for allowing the user to input information of cancellation or repair completion of the request. is there.

  The above is the description of the flow of the screen display processing based on the time information when the repair request application is activated in the embodiment of the present invention in FIG. 5A.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 5B, a description will be given of a flow of a screen display process based on time information when a repair request button is pressed according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5B is a flowchart illustrating a flow of a screen display process based on time information when a repair request button is pressed according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  As described above, each process of the flowchart illustrated in FIG. 5B is executed by the CPU of the MFP 300 using the function of the platform or the repair request application.

  The repair request application determines whether the request button or the requesting button has been pressed (step S511). That is, it is determined whether the repair request button (object) has been pressed.

  Specifically, the platform notifies the repair request application of information indicating that either the request button or the requesting button has been pressed. Then, in a case where information indicating that any of the buttons has been pressed is received from the platform, the repair request application determines in step S511 that either the request button or the requesting button has been pressed.

  If the repair request application determines that any one of the above buttons has been pressed (YES in step S511), the process proceeds to step S512.

  The repair request application executes the process of step S512, and shifts the process to step S513. Since the processing in step S512 is the same as the processing in step S502 in FIG. 5A, the description is omitted.

  The repair request application refers to the repair request status acquired in step S502 and determines whether or not a repair request is being made (step S513). If it is determined that the repair is not requested (NO in step S513), the process proceeds to step S514. If it is determined that a repair request is being made (YES in step S513), the process proceeds to step S520, and one of a repair request cancellation process and a repair request completion process is executed. Details of the repair request cancellation and repair request completion processing will be described later with reference to FIG.

  The repair request application executes the process of step S514, and shifts the process to step S515. Since the processing in step S514 is the same as the processing in step S504 in FIG. 5A, the description is omitted.

  The repair request application determines whether the current time is within the time indicated by the repair request available time 803 (step S515 / time determination unit). If the current time is within the time indicated by the repair request possible time 803 (YES in step S515), the process shifts to step S516, and shifts to a repair request process.

  The details of the repair request process in the first embodiment of the present invention will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Details of the repair request processing in the second embodiment of the present invention will be described later with reference to FIGS.

  After processing in step S516 or step S520, the repair request application shifts the processing to step S517. After the process in step S517, the process proceeds to step S518. The process in step S517 is the same as the process in step S502 in FIG. 5A and the process in step S512 in FIG. 5B, and thus the description is omitted.

  The repair request application refers to the repair request status acquired in step S517, and determines whether or not a repair request is being made (step S518). If it is determined that the repair is not requested (NO in step S518), the process proceeds to step S519. If it is determined that a repair request is being made (YES in step S518), the process proceeds to step S521.

  The processing in step S519 is the same as the processing in step S506 in FIG. 5A, and thus the description is omitted. Further, the processing in step S521 is the same as the processing in step S507 in FIG. 5A, and thus the description is omitted.

  If the current time is not within the time indicated by the repair request available time 803 (NO in step S515), the repair request application shifts the processing to step S522.

  The repair request application displays an error screen such as an error screen 1400 shown in FIG. 11 (step S522), and after a predetermined time has elapsed, or an instruction to press a main menu button (not shown) installed on the multifunction peripheral 300 body. Is received, the process shifts to step S523. Since the processing in step S523 is the same as the processing in step S508 in FIG. 5A, the description is omitted. The above is the description of the flow of the display processing of the screen based on the time information when the repair request button is pressed in the embodiment of the present invention in FIG. 5B.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a mechanism for presenting information on a repair request to a user based on time information.

  That is, it is possible to provide a mechanism for appropriately presenting the image of the request (repair request button) related to the image forming apparatus to the user.

  Next, a flow of a repair request process according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the flow of the repair request process in the first embodiment of the present invention.

  As described above, each process of the flowchart shown in FIG. 6 is executed by the CPU of the MFP 300 using the function of the platform or the repair request application.

  The CPU 301 of the multifunction peripheral 300 displays a repair request screen like 1200 in FIG. 12 on the display screen (step S601). Specifically, an image of the repair request screen is generated, transmitted to the platform, and the platform performs a process of displaying the repair request screen on the display screen.

  Here, an example of the configuration of the repair request screen according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a repair request screen according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The repair request screen 1200 includes a large item 1201, a "return" button 1202, a "send repair request" button 1205, and the like. The large item 1201 is an item for selecting the type of the repair request. By receiving a pressing instruction for the large item 1201, items that can be selected as the contents of the repair request are displayed in a pull-down display. For example, items such as “image failure”, “error message”, and “print failure” are displayed in a pull-down display.

  By accepting the selection of one of the items displayed in the pull-down display, the selected item is input to the large item 1201.

  The “return” button 1202 is a button for returning the display screen to the main menu screen before the repair request screen 1200 is displayed. The “repair request transmission” button 1205 is a button for transmitting a repair request mail including the content of each item input on the repair request screen 1200 to the repair request destination.

  The repair request screen 1210 is a repair request screen displayed on the display screen when “error message” is selected in the large item 1201. The “error message” is input in the major item 1211.

  The error code 1212 is an input unit that displays (inputs) an error code acquired by the repair request application from the external memory of the MFP 300. For example, an error code of an error currently occurring in the multifunction peripheral 300 stored in the error code 820 of FIG. 8 is input. The above is an explanation of an example of the configuration of the repair request screen in the embodiment of the present invention in FIG.

  Returning to the description of FIG. The repair request application determines whether an instruction to press the “return” button 1202 has been received (step S602). That is, it is determined whether an instruction to return to the main menu screen has been received.

  If the repair request application determines that the instruction to press the “return” button 1202 has been received (YES in step S602), the process ends. If it is determined that the instruction to press the “return” button 1202 has not been received (NO in step S602), the process proceeds to step S603.

  The repair request application determines whether an instruction to press the “send repair request” button 1205 has been received (step S603). That is, it is determined whether an instruction to execute a repair request has been received.

  If the repair request application determines that the instruction to press the “send repair request” button 1205 has been received (YES in step S603), the process proceeds to step S608. If it is determined that the instruction to press the “send repair request” button 1205 has not been received (NO in step S603), the process proceeds to step S604.

  The repair request application determines whether an input instruction for the large item 1201 has been received (step S604 / input receiving means). That is, it is determined whether a large item pressing instruction has been given and an instruction to select a pull-down displayed item has been given in response to the pressing instruction.

  If the repair request application determines that the input instruction of the large item 1201 has not been received (NO in step S604), the process returns to step S601. For example, when an instruction to input a character string to an item other than the large item is received, a screen reflecting the result of the input instruction is generated, and a process of displaying the screen on the display screen in step S601 is performed.

  If the repair request application determines that the input instruction for the large item 1201 has been received (YES in step S604), the process proceeds to step S605.

  The repair request application determines whether the item input in the large item 1201 is an “error message” (Step S605). That is, it is determined whether an instruction to acquire an error code has been received.

  When determining that the item input in the large item 1201 is an “error message” (YES in step S605), the repair request application refers to the error code 820 in FIG. If an error code is stored in the error code 820 (that is, if an error is occurring in the MFP 300), the error code is acquired (step S606). Then, the acquired error code is input to the error code 1212 of FIG. 12 (step S607), and the process returns to step S601.

  If the repair request application determines that the item input in the large item is not an “error message” (NO in step S605), the process returns to step S601.

  In step S608, the repair request application creates a repair request mail (step S608). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, a mail template 1000 of the repair request mail stored in the external memory of the multifunction peripheral 300 is acquired, and according to the mail template, the input of each item received on the repair request screen is performed. Generate an e-mail with the content (character string) inserted in the body. Further, the mail address 802 in FIG. 8 is set as the transmission destination of the electronic mail.

  In addition, in addition to the information inserted in the text, a text file that is not included in the mail template 1000 and that includes, for example, information on the company name, name, telephone number, and address in the repair request screens 1200 and 1010 in FIG. Is generated, the text file is encrypted, and attached to the generated e-mail.

  Thus, the personal information of the user (requester) making the repair request can be encrypted and then transmitted to the request destination of the repair request in order to enhance security.

  The repair request application transmits the e-mail generated in step S608 (step S609). Specifically, in order to send the electronic mail to the repair request destination (PC 200 or mail server 101), a process of transmitting the electronic mail to mail server 100 is performed.

  During the transmission of the repair request mail, a screen such as a transmitting screen 1540 (FIG. 15) is displayed on the display screen. When the transmission is completed, the transmission completion screen 1550 (FIG. 15) is displayed. Display the screen on the display screen.

  The repair request application uses the contents of the repair request (the information entered in each item of the repair request screen 1200 at the time of pressing the “send repair request” button 1205) used to generate the repair request mail and the attached file. The corresponding item of the repair request content holding file 830 of FIG. 8 is written, and the repair request status 810 is rewritten to true (step S610). That is, the repair request status is updated.

  The above is the description of the flow of the repair request processing in the first embodiment of the present invention in FIG.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 7, a flow of a repair request cancellation and repair request completion process according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the flow of the repair request cancellation and repair request completion processing in the embodiment of the present invention.

  As described above, each process of the flowchart illustrated in FIG. 7 is executed by the CPU of the MFP 300 using the function of the platform or the repair request application.

  The CPU 301 of the multifunction peripheral 300 displays a repair request content confirmation screen as shown in 1620 in FIG. 16, 1720 in FIG. 17, and FIG. 13 on the display screen (step S701). Specifically, an image of the repair request content confirmation screen is generated and transmitted to the platform, and the platform performs a process of displaying the repair request content confirmation screen on the display screen.

  Here, an example of the configuration of the repair request content confirmation screen according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of a repair request content confirmation screen according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The repair request content confirmation screen 1300 is a repair request content confirmation screen when a large item under repair request is not an error message. The repair request content confirmation screen 1310 is a repair request content confirmation screen in the case where a large item under repair request is an error message (when an error code is included in the repair request and transmitted).

  Each repair request content confirmation screen includes a “return” button 1301, a “repair request cancel” button 1302, a “CE repair work completion” button 1303, and the like. A “return” button 1301 is a button for returning the display screen to the main menu screen before each repair request content confirmation screen is displayed.

A “repair request cancel” button 1302 is a button for canceling a repair request. That is, it is a button for withdrawing a repair request. When the press of the “cancel repair request” button 1302 is received, the repair request application notifies the repair request destination of the cancellation of the repair request.
Further, a process of rewriting the repair request status 810 of the repair request content holding file 830 to false is performed.

  A “CE repair work completed” button 1303 is a button for notifying the repair request destination of the completion of the requested repair. The above is an explanation of an example of the configuration of the repair request content confirmation screen in the embodiment of the present invention in FIG.

  Returning to the description of FIG. The repair request application determines whether the press of the “cancel repair request” button 1302 has been received (step S702). That is, it is determined whether cancellation of the repair request has been instructed.

  If the repair request application determines that the “repair request cancel” button 1302 has been pressed (YES in step S702), the repair request application generates a repair request cancellation mail (step S707). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, a mail template 1010 of the cancel mail stored in the external memory of the multifunction peripheral 300 is acquired, and the contents of each item of the repair request content holding file 830 are stored in accordance with the mail template. Generate an email inserted in the body.

  Then, the mail address 802 is set as the destination of the cancel mail and transmitted (step S708). During the transmission of the cancellation mail, a screen such as a transmitting screen 1640 (FIG. 16) is displayed on the display screen, and when the transmission is completed, a transmission completion screen such as a repair request cancellation completion screen 1650 (FIG. 16) is displayed. Is displayed on the display screen.

  Then, the process proceeds to step S706, and the value of the repair request status 810 of the repair request content holding file 830 is rewritten to false.

  When the repair request application determines that the press of the “cancel repair request” button 1302 has not been received (NO in step S702), it determines whether the press of the “CE repair work completed” button 1303 has been received (step S703). That is, it is determined whether an instruction for notifying of repair completion has been received to the repair request destination.

  If the repair request application determines that the press of the “CE repair work completed” button 1303 has not been received (NO in step S703), the process ends.

  When determining that the press of the “CE repair work completion” button 1303 has been received (YES in step S703), the repair request application generates a repair completion mail (step S704). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, a mail template 1020 of the repair completion mail stored in the external memory of the MFP 300 is acquired, and the contents of each item of the repair request content holding file 830 are obtained according to the mail template. Generates an e-mail with the text inserted in the body.

  Then, the mail address 802 is set as the destination of the repair request mail and transmitted (step S705). During transmission of the repair completion mail, a screen such as a transmitting screen 1740 (FIG. 17) is displayed on the display screen. When the transmission is completed, a transmission completion screen such as a CE work completion screen 1750 (FIG. 17) is displayed. Is displayed on the display screen.

  Then, the process proceeds to step S706, and the value of the repair request status 810 of the repair request content holding file 830 is rewritten to false.

  The above is an explanation of the flow of the repair request cancellation and repair request completion processing in the embodiment of the present invention in FIG.

  An example of a process for each application according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. As described above, the function (error control unit) of detecting an error of the multifunction peripheral 300 and notifying the repair request application is included in the platform (OS).

  A display function (screen display function unit) for displaying a repair request button on the display screen of the multifunction peripheral 300 in response to an instruction from the repair request application is included in the platform (OS).

  As above, the first embodiment of the present invention has been described.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a mechanism for appropriately presenting an image relating to a repair request to a user.

  [Second embodiment]

  Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the second embodiment, when a request for repair of the multifunction peripheral 300 is made, a scan image obtained by scanning a printed matter and an image of print data that is the data of the original document are attached to the repair request (attached). (Scan screen / for example, FIG. 21).

  In addition, a scan image obtained by scanning the printed matter and print data that is data of a print source of the printed matter are given (attached) to a repair request (repair request mail).

  That is, a process of reading an image used for a repair request shown in FIG. 20 is performed.

  For example, undetectable errors such as color misregistration, printing with streaks in the image, improper color printing, and the like exist as obstacles to the multifunction peripheral. When such a symptom occurs, the user requesting repair describes the symptom of the error to the user of the repair request by telephone or the like, and the user of the repair request receives, based on the description, We cope by instructing how to use and dispatching service personnel.

  It is very complicated for the user who has requested the repair to explain the symptoms of such an undetectable error, and it is also difficult to properly explain the symptoms. The content of the error was not accurately transmitted to the repair request destination (repair request destination user), and it was not possible to immediately determine what kind of response should be made to the repair request source user.

  In addition, there is a problem that the user of the repair request source does not know how to transmit the contents of the error to the repair request destination.

  In the second embodiment, the user of the repair request destination can confirm the difference between the printed matter and the image of the print data that is the data of the print source by the process of attaching each image to the repair request. .

  Further, by displaying the scan screen, it is possible to present information of a screen necessary for a repair request attached with each image to the user of the repair request source.

  As described above, the display of the scan screen and the attachment of each image to the repair request are performed, for example, when a color shift occurs in the multifunction peripheral 300 (that is, when repair is required). This is effective in the case where the user of the repair request destination confirms the content of the repair request, such as the degree of color shift between the image of the print data as the print source data and the like.

  Also, on the scan screen, the scanned image obtained by scanning the printed matter and the image of the print data that is the data of the print source of the printed matter are compared and displayed, so that the repair requesting user can truly repair the MFP 300. This is effective when confirming the necessity.

  In other words, when it appears that color misregistration has occurred in the printed matter, but there is no difference between the image of the print data of the printing source and the printed matter, the images are compared and displayed to allow the user to check the multifunction peripheral 300. The user can confirm that the repair request is unnecessary.

  First, the flow of a repair request process according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the flow of a repair request process according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  In the second embodiment, the processing in FIG. 19 is executed as the processing in step S516 in FIG. 5B instead of the processing in FIG. 6 in the first embodiment. 5A, 5B, and 7 are the same as those in the first embodiment, and a description thereof will not be repeated.

  Also, the processing of steps S601 to S604 and steps S606 to S608 in FIG. 19 is the same as the processing of steps S601 to S604 and steps S606 to S608 in FIG.

  In step S1901, the repair request application determines whether the item input in the large item 1201 is an “error message” (step S1901). That is, it is determined whether an instruction to acquire an error code has been received.

  If the repair request application determines that the item input in the large item 1201 is an “error message” (YES in step S1901), the process proceeds to step S606. If it is determined that the item input as the large item is not an “error message” (NO in step S1901), the process proceeds to step S1902.

  The repair request application determines whether the item input in the large item 1201 is “printing failure” (step S1902). That is, it is determined whether a predetermined item has been selected. If it is determined that the item input as the large item is not “printing failure” (NO in step S1902), the process returns to step S601.

  If it is determined that the item input in the large item is “printing failure” (YES in step S1902), the process proceeds to step S1903 to execute a process of attaching a scanned image (a process of reading an image used for a repair request). (Step S1903). The scan image attachment process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Here, with reference to FIG. 20, a flow of a process of reading an image used for a repair request in the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of a process of reading an image used for a repair request in the second embodiment of the present invention.

  The repair request application displays a scan screen (scan screen 2100 in FIG. 21) on the display screen (step S2001). The scan screen referred to here is a kind of a repair request screen.

  With reference to FIG. 21, a description will be given of an example of screen transition during reading processing of an image used for a repair request and an example of a configuration of each screen in the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a state of a screen transition at the time of reading processing of an image used for a repair request in the second embodiment of the present invention.

  The scan screen 2100 includes an original image display unit 2101, an output image display unit 2102, an “image attachment” button 2103, and the like. The original image display unit is a display unit that displays an image of the printed print data. For example, an image of the print data of the print source of the printed matter is displayed.

  The output image display unit 2102 is a display unit that displays a scan image generated by scanning (reading) a printed matter. For example, a printed material on which print data as an image displayed on the original image display unit 2101 is printed is scanned, and a scanned image of the printed material generated by the scan is displayed on the output image display unit 2102.

  The “attach image” button 2103 is a button for transitioning the display screen to the history list screen 2110. The history list screen 2110 is a screen for selecting print data (image of print data) to be displayed on the original image display unit 2101 and scanning (generating) a scan image to be displayed on the output image display unit 2102.

  More specifically, a list of operation histories in the multifunction peripheral 300 is acquired, displayed in a list on the list display unit 2111, and image data of print data corresponding to the operation history selected from the list is received by the multifunction peripheral 300. (Print data storage means).

  In addition, each time the print data is printed (output on paper), the platform of the multifunction peripheral 300 stores the image data of the print data in a storage area such as an external memory of the multifunction peripheral 300 in the operation history. It shall be stored in association with the information.

  When the “scan” button 2112 is pressed on the history list screen 2110, a process of scanning the paper (printed matter) set in the multifunction peripheral body is performed. Then, the screen is returned to the scan screen. For example, the screen display is changed to a screen such as a scan screen 2120.

  In the scan screen 2120, the image of the print data corresponding to the history selected in the list display unit 2111 is displayed in the original image display unit 2121. The output image display unit 2122 displays a scanned image of the printed material scanned by pressing the “scan” button 2112.

  The original image display unit 2121 and the output image display unit 2122 are the same as the original image display unit 2101 and the output image display unit 2102 of the scan screen 2100, respectively, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  When a “repair request transmission” button 2123 is pressed on the scan screen 2120, each item (for example, a large item, a medium item, and a small item) input on the scan screen is displayed on the original image display unit 2121. Image (the image of the print data corresponding to the history selected in the list display unit 2111), the image displayed on the output image display unit 2122 (the scan of the printed material scanned by pressing the “scan” button 2112). The image) is described in the mail, attached, and transmitted to the mail address 802 (FIG. 8).

  The above is an explanation of an example of screen transitions and an example of a configuration of each screen in the process of reading an image used for a repair request in the second embodiment of the present invention in FIG. 21.

  Returning to the description of FIG. The repair request application determines whether the “attach image” button 2103 has been pressed (step S2002). If it is determined that the “attach image” button 2103 has not been pressed (NO in step S2002), the process returns to step S2001.

  If it is determined that the “attach image” button 2103 has been pressed (NO in step S2002), operation histories of various functions stored in the external memory of the MFP main body are acquired (step S2003).

  As described above, when a user performs an operation such as copy, print, or facsimile, the platform of the multifunction peripheral 300 holds the operation history (output image, operation time, and the like) in the external memory of the HDD. Here, the operation history stored at the time of operation is acquired.

  The repair request application repeats the process of step S2004 for the number of histories acquired in step S2003. In step S2004, the repair request application generates a list for displaying a list of operation histories on the list display unit 2111, acquires one operation history acquired in step S2003, and adds it to the list.

  After executing the process of step S2004 for the number of histories acquired in step S2003, the repair request application generates a history list screen 2110 displaying the list generated in step S2004 on the list display unit 2111, and displays the list on the display screen. It is displayed (step S2005).

  Specifically, an image of the history list screen is generated and transmitted to the platform, and the platform performs a process of displaying the history list screen on the display screen.

  The repair request application determines whether the selection of the operation history of the list display unit has been received (step S2006), and if the selection has been received (YES in step S2006), changes the selected operation history to the selected state. (Step S2013), the process returns to step S2005.

  If it is determined that the selection of the operation history of the list display unit has not been received (NO in step S2006), it is determined whether the pressing of the “scan” button 2112 has been received (step S2007). If it is determined that the pressing of the “scan” button 2112 has not been received (NO in step S2007), the process returns to step S2005.

  If it is determined that the pressing of the “scan” button 2112 has been received (YES in step S2007), the CPU 301 of the MFP 300 scans the document (printed matter) set in the MFP 300 to generate a scanned image, and It is stored in the external memory of the device 300 (step S2008).

  More specifically, the repair request application instructs the platform to start the scanning process, and the platform that has received the instruction executes the scanning process of the document using the function of the scanning unit of the MFP.

  The repair request application acquires the operation history selected in step S2006 and selected in step S2013, and acquires an image corresponding to the operation history (step S2009). Then, as shown in a scan screen 2120 in FIG. 21, each image is displayed on a display screen in comparison (comparison display) (step S2010 / comparison screen display means).

  The repair request application determines whether the “send repair request” button 2123 has been pressed (step S2011), and if it determines that the “send repair request” button 2123 has not been pressed (NO in step S2011), the process proceeds. It returns to before step S2011. If it is determined that the “send repair request” button 2123 has been pressed (YES in step S2011), the process proceeds to step S2012.

  The repair request application generates a mail (repair request mail) in which each item (for example, a large item, a middle item, and a small item) input on the scan screen 2120 is inserted into the mail body according to the mail template 1000 of the repair request mail. , The mail address 802 is set as the destination of the mail. Also, the image displayed on the original image display unit 2121 (the image of the print data corresponding to the history selected in the list display unit 2111) and the image displayed on the output image display unit 2122 (the “scan” button 2112 is pressed) The attached scanned image of the printed matter is attached to the mail (step S2012). That is, a repair request mail is generated.

  The above is the description of the flow of the reading process of the image used for the repair request in the second embodiment of the present invention in FIG.

  Returning to the description of FIG. The repair request application transmits the repair request mail generated in step S2012 of FIG. 20 to the destination set in the mail (step S1904). Then, the information of each item (large item, medium item, small item) included in the repair request mail is overwritten on the information of each item of the repair request content holding file 830 stored in the external memory of the multifunction peripheral. The image attached to the repair request mail is stored in association with the repair request content holding file 830. The repair request status 810 in the repair request content holding file 830 is rewritten to false (step S1905). The above is the description of the flow of the repair request processing in the second embodiment of the present invention in FIG.

  As above, the second embodiment of the present invention has been described.

  According to the second embodiment of the present invention, the difference between the printed matter and the image of the print data that is the print source data can be confirmed by the user of the repair request destination.

  In addition, it is possible to present information of a screen required for a repair request attached with each image to the user of the repair request source.

  That is, it is possible to provide a mechanism for appropriately presenting the image related to the repair request to the user.

  In the above-described embodiment, the repair request to the repair request destination is made by e-mail. However, the method of the repair request is not limited to the e-mail.

  For example, when a management server that manages the repair request information exists in the support center, the MFP 300 communicates the information with the management server separately from the repair request application in a predetermined communication method / file format. It is conceivable that a notification application capable of transmitting and receiving is set on the platform. For example, there is a case where the user of the repair requester has joined a management system that monitors the state of the multifunction peripheral 300.

  In this case, since the customer information and the information such as the model number of the multifunction machine may have already been registered in the management server, the repair request application receives the push of the “send repair request” button, The error code 820 stored in the memory is acquired and transmitted to the platform, and the platform transmits the received information of the error code 820 to the notification application. The notification application transmits the information of the error code 820 received from the platform to the management server (repair request destination) in a predetermined communication method / file format (repair request).

  The timing of the repair request is the same as the transmission timing of the repair request mail in the above-described embodiment. The same applies to the cancellation mail and the repair completion mail.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, in step S501 in FIG. 5A, the process of step S502 (the process after S502) is started by receiving an instruction to start the repair request application from the platform. When the menu screen is updated, the process of step S502 (the process after S502) may be started.

  For example, an instruction to change the display screen to a screen on which the repair request button is arranged is received, or an instruction to update the display screen is received while the main menu screen on which the repair request button is arranged is displayed (not acceptable). If the illustrated screen update button is pressed), the repair request application receives information indicating that the update of the screen has been instructed from the platform, and the process proceeds to step S502. It is assumed that information on which screen the repair request button is arranged on is stored in the storage area of the multifunction peripheral in advance in the storage area of the multifunction peripheral.

  In the above-described embodiment, an unselectable repair request button (out-of-time button) is displayed on the main menu screen in step S508 in FIG. 5A and step S523 in FIG. 5B. You may control so that an outside button may not be displayed.

  For example, in step S508 in FIG. 5A and step S523 in FIG. 5B, the repair request application instructs the platform to hide the repair request button, and the platform arranges the repair request button according to the instruction. A non-existent main menu screen may be displayed on the display screen (for example, the main menu screen 2220 in FIG. 22 is displayed).

  Also, for example, the out-of-hours button is displayed so that it can be pressed regardless of whether it is within the repair requestable time or outside the time. If the time is outside the repair requestable time, the repair request button (pressable time outside button) is pressed. The repair request may not be transmitted even if it is performed. For example, in step S508 in FIG. 5A and step S523 in FIG. 5B, the out-of-hours button is displayed on the display screen without being grayed out, and the process is terminated without transmitting a repair request even if the button is accepted.

Further, when a press of the out-of-hours button is received outside the repair request possible time, the fact that the repair request application has received the press operation is stored in the external memory of the multifunction peripheral 300 (operation storage means), and the repair request can be made. A repair request may be automatically transmitted when the time has passed, and the display of the out-of-time button may be changed to a requesting button.

  Specifically, when it is determined in step S515 that the time is outside the repair requestable time (that is, when a repair request button indicating that the time is outside the repair requestable time is pressed), the repair request application The fact that the out-of-time button was pressed outside the repair request available time is stored in the external memory of the multifunction peripheral 300. Then, the out-of-time button is changed to a request standby button (not shown) stored in the external memory of the multifunction peripheral 300 (when the button is pressed outside the repair-requestable time and within the repair-requestable time, a repair request is transmitted. , A button indicating that the request is waiting for transmission) is displayed on the display screen instead of the after-hours button. Then, the current time information and the repair request possible time are periodically acquired, and when the current time falls within the repair request possible time, an error occurring in the MFP 300 at the present time (date and time indicated by the current time) is obtained. (Step S606 is executed), and the process proceeds to Step S608 to create an e-mail including the error code. Thereby, it is possible to notify the user that the instruction of the repair request has been received outside of the repair request allowable time. Also, by automatically transmitting a repair request and switching the display of a button when it is within the time available for repair request, it is possible to notify the user that a repair request has been transmitted only within the time available for repair request. it can.

  Here, the error code of the error occurring in the MFP 300 at the current time (the date and time indicated by the current time) is acquired and transmitted by a repair request mail. The requesting application acquires the error code, stores it in the external memory of the multifunction peripheral 300 together with the date and time when the press was received, and when the repair request time has come within the allowable time, the press of the out-of-time button is received from the external memory. The error code of the error at the date and time may be acquired and transmitted by a repair request mail.

  In the description of the above-described embodiment, when the press of the repair request button is received on the main menu screen, the repair request screen is displayed. For example, as shown in FIG. 15, a password input screen (1510 ) Is displayed, the input of the password is accepted, and when the password matches the password stored in the external memory of the MFP 300 in advance, the repair request screen (1520) is displayed on the display screen. Is also good.

  In this case, it is assumed that the repair request application executes the display of the password input screen and the determination of the coincidence of the password between steps S515 and S516 in FIG.

  Also, if the press of the “Send repair request” button is accepted on the repair request screen, a repair request transmission confirmation screen 1530 (FIG. 15) is displayed on the display screen, and the “OK” button is clicked on the repair request transmission confirmation screen 1530. When pressed, a process of transmitting a repair request mail may be performed. In this case, the repair request application executes the process of displaying the repair request transmission confirmation screen 1530 and the process of determining whether the “OK” button has been pressed between steps S603 and S608 in FIG.

  Further, in the description of the above-described embodiment, when the pressing of the requesting button on the main menu screen is received, the repair request content confirmation screen is displayed. For example, as shown in FIGS. When the password input screen (1610, 1710) is displayed and the input of the password is accepted, and the password matches the password stored in the external memory of the MFP 300 in advance, the repair request content confirmation screen (1620, 1720) may be displayed on the display screen.

  In this case, it is assumed that the repair request application executes the display of the password input screen and the determination of the coincidence of the password between steps S513 and S520 in FIG.

  In addition, when the press of the “Cancel” button is accepted on the repair request content confirmation screen, a repair request cancellation confirmation dialog 1630 is displayed on the display screen, and when the “OK” button is pressed in the repair request cancellation confirmation dialog 1630. Then, a process of transmitting a cancel mail may be performed. In this case, the repair request application executes the process of displaying the repair request cancellation confirmation dialog 1630 and the process of determining whether the “OK” button has been pressed between steps S702 and S707 in FIG.

  In addition, when the press of the “CE repair work completion” button is received on the repair request content confirmation screen, a maintenance password input screen 1730 is displayed on the display screen, and a password is input on the maintenance password input screen 1730, and “ The repair completion mail may be transmitted when the “OK” button is pressed and the password matches a password stored in the external memory of the multifunction peripheral 300 in advance.

  In this case, the repair request application executes the process of displaying the maintenance password input screen 1730, the process of determining whether the “OK” button has been pressed, and the process of determining whether the password matches, between steps S703 and S704 in FIG. Shall be.

  In the description of the above-described embodiment, the “repair request” of the multifunction peripheral 300 is performed. However, the request (request relating to the image forming apparatus) is not necessarily limited to the repair request. For example, the notification may be a notification (a request for toner order) based on the state of the MFP, such as a toner out condition, or a request for an order for printing paper. For example, a “request” button (not shown) is displayed instead of the “repair request button” in step S506, and a request screen (not shown) is displayed instead of displaying the repair request screen 1200 by accepting the press in step S511. Is displayed on the request screen, and the input of the request contents (for example, selection / input of an error code indicating out of toner, input of the text of the request text) is accepted, and the “request transmission” arranged on the request screen in step S603 is received. By receiving a press of the button, a request mail describing information input on the request screen may be transmitted to the mail server 101 of the support center.

  Further, in the description of the above-described embodiment, the information on the possible repair request time is stored in the external memory of the multifunction peripheral 300, but may be stored in the memory of an external device such as a server. For example, it is assumed that a management server that manages the repair request information exists at the support center, and the IP address of the management server is stored in the external memory of the multifunction peripheral 300. The repair request application of the multifunction peripheral 300 executes the processing after step S502 at a predetermined time interval or when a predetermined time (time) is reached, and requests information of a repair request available time from the management server at step S504. Then, the repair request possible time is acquired (the management server transmits the repair request possible time to the multifunction peripheral 300 in response to the request (time transmitting means)). Then, the processing of steps S506 and S508 may be executed. Similarly, in step S514, the management server may be inquired about the repair request possible time, and the repair request possible time may be acquired. The possible repair request time may be stored in a storage device other than the MFP 300 and the management server. For example, it may be stored in a storage medium such as a memory card connected to the multifunction peripheral 300.

  In addition, calendar information (information indicating the month and the day when the support center is closed or closed) is stored in the external memory of the multifunction peripheral 300, and the display control of the repair request button and the out-of-hour button is performed according to the calendar information. You may do. Specifically, if it is determined in step S503 that the repair is not requested, the repair request application acquires the calendar information from the external memory and determines whether the current date and time is a business day of the support center. If it is a business day, the process proceeds to step S504, and if it is a non-business day, the process proceeds to step S508 to display an after-hours button. If it is determined in step S513 that the repair is not requested, the repair request application acquires the calendar information from the external memory and determines whether the current date and time is a business day of the support center. If it is a business day, the process proceeds to step S514. If it is a non-business day, the process proceeds to step S522 to display an error. In step S523, an out-of-time button is displayed. In other words, in the case of a holiday, it is possible to skip the determination as to whether or not the current time is the time during which the repair can be requested, thereby simplifying the processing.

  Here, the calendar information and the information on the possible repair request time are stored in the storage unit as separate data. However, for example, the information on the possible repair request time is stored together with the calendar information, and the possible repair request time is stored. May be obtained, and the determination based on the calendar information described above and the processing based on the determination may be performed. As a result, it is possible to reduce the trouble of storing and managing the calendar and the information on the repair request available time separately, and to appropriately request the repair according to the business day and business hours of the repair request destination.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a mechanism for presenting information on a repair request to a user based on time information.

  As described above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail. However, the present invention can take embodiments as, for example, a system, an apparatus, a method, a program or a storage medium that can be read and executed by the apparatus, and May be applied to a system including a plurality of devices, or may be applied to an apparatus including a single device.

  For example, the multifunction peripheral 300 and the mail server 100 may be a single device. In other words, for example, the platform of the multifunction peripheral 300 uses the functions of the multifunction peripheral 300 to execute the processing described as being executed by the mail server 100 in the above-described embodiment (for example, 411 and 4112 in FIG. 4). May be executed.

  Further, an object of the present invention is to provide a storage medium storing a program code of software for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or an apparatus, and a computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or the apparatus to store the storage medium. Needless to say, this can also be achieved by reading and executing the program code stored in the program.

  In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the function of the above-described embodiment, and the program code itself and the storage medium storing the program code constitute the present invention.

  As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a flexible disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a CD-R, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile card, a ROM, and the like can be used.

  When the computer executes the readout program code, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also the OS (basic system or operating system) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. ) May perform some or all of the actual processing, and the processing may realize the functions of the above-described embodiments.

  Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written into a memory provided on a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function is executed based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that a CPU or the like provided in an expansion board or a function expansion unit performs part or all of actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

100 mail server 101 mail server 150 LAN
160 LAN
200 PC
300 MFP

Claims (12)

A time acquisition unit that acquires, from the storage unit, a receivable time, which is a time during which a request destination of the request can receive a request related to the image forming apparatus;
Time determination means for determining whether the current time is within the acceptable time or outside the acceptable time acquired by the time acquisition means,
Display means for displaying a request object for accepting the operation of the request;
Transmitting means for transmitting a request for the image forming apparatus to a request destination by receiving an operation on the request object displayed by the display means;
With
The display means displays the request object so that the operation of the request can be received when the current time is determined to be within the receivable time by the time determination means. When it is determined that the time is outside the receivable time, the display of the request object is changed so that it is possible to identify that the time is outside the receivable time. Request determining means for determining whether the request has already been transmitted by the transmitting means,
With
The display means displays the request object so that it is possible to identify that the request has been transmitted, when the request determination means determines that the request has already been transmitted by the transmission means. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus is changed.   The transmitting unit does not transmit the request to the request destination when the operation on the request object is received outside the receivable time, and when the operation on the request object is received within the receivable time. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the request is transmitted to a request destination. Operation storage means for storing that an operation on the request object has been received outside the receivable time;
With
The transmitting unit is a case where the operation storage unit stores that an operation on the request object is received outside the receivable time, and the time determination unit determines that a current time is within the receivable time. 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the determination is made, the request is automatically transmitted to a request destination. 5.   The display means, when the time determination means determines that the current time is within the receivable time, arranges and displays the request object so that the operation of the request can be received; The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein when the current time is determined to be outside the receivable time by the means, the request object that does not receive the request operation is arranged and displayed. An image forming apparatus according to claim 1. Print data storage means for storing print data that has been printed,
Image reading means for reading the image of the printed document;
With
The transmission unit transmits the request including print data that has been subjected to the printing stored in the print data storage unit and a scanned image that is an image of a document read by the image reading unit to a request destination. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. Input receiving means for receiving input of request contents of the request,
When a predetermined request content is input by the input accepting unit, the print data stored in the print data storage unit is compared with a scan image which is an image of a document read by the image reading unit and displayed on a display screen. Comparison screen display means for displaying a screen,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising: The storage unit is a storage unit included in an external device,
The said acquisition means acquires the said receivable time from the memory | storage part of the said external device by requesting the said external device about the said receivable time, The Claim 1 characterized by the above-mentioned. Image forming apparatus.   The display means displays a request button as the request object that can accept the operation of the request when the current time is determined to be within the receivable time by the time determination means. When the current time is determined to be outside the receivable time, an out-of-time button is displayed as the request object that can be identified as being outside the receivable time of the request. A time acquisition step of acquiring, from the storage unit, a receivable time that is a time at which the request destination of the request can accept the request related to the image forming apparatus;
A time determination step of determining whether the current time is within the acceptable time or outside the acceptable time acquired in the time acquisition step,
A display step of displaying a request object for accepting the operation of the request;
A transmission step of transmitting a request for the image forming apparatus to a request destination by receiving an operation on the request object displayed in the display step;
Including
The display step displays the request object so that the operation of the request can be received when the current time is determined to be within the receivable time in the time determination step. When it is determined that the time is outside the receivable time, the display of the request object is changed so that it can be identified that the request is outside the receivable time. Method. The image forming apparatus,
A time acquisition unit that acquires, from the storage unit, a receivable time, which is a time during which a request destination of the request can receive a request related to the image forming apparatus;
Time determination means for determining whether the current time is within the acceptable time or outside the acceptable time acquired by the time acquisition means,
Display means for displaying a request object for accepting the operation of the request;
By receiving an operation on the request object displayed by the display unit, the image forming apparatus functions as a transmission unit that transmits a request related to the image forming apparatus to a request destination,
The display means displays the request object so that the operation of the request can be received when the current time is determined to be within the receivable time by the time determination means. When the time is determined to be outside the receivable time, the display of the request object is changed so as to be able to identify that the time is outside the receivable time. An image forming system including: an image forming apparatus; and a server including a storage unit that stores a receivable time that is a time during which a request for the image forming apparatus can be received,
The image forming apparatus includes:
Time acquisition means for requesting and acquiring the acceptable time from the server,
Time determination means for determining whether the current time is within the acceptable time or outside the acceptable time acquired by the time acquisition means,
Display means for displaying a request object for accepting the operation of the request;
Transmitting means for transmitting a request for the image forming apparatus to the server, which is a request destination, by receiving an operation on the request object displayed by the display means;
With
The server is
Time transmitting means for transmitting the receivable time to the image forming apparatus in response to a request from the image forming apparatus,
Receiving means for receiving the request transmitted by the transmitting means;
With
The display means displays the request object so that the operation of the request can be received when the current time is determined to be within the receivable time by the time determination means. When it is determined that the time is outside the receivable time, the display of the request object is changed so that it is possible to identify that the time is outside the receivable time.

Images