JP5971365B2 - Image forming apparatus, image forming system, control method thereof, and program - Google Patents

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 the network, and issues a dispatch instruction of a service person who performs repairs, a dispatch instruction of toner and ink, and the like based on the information.

  The information received by the management apparatus is, for example, information that can be detected on the image forming apparatus side. For example, information such as 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 failure information of the image forming apparatus.

  For example, in Patent Document 1, a panel for notifying a request for repair of an image forming apparatus is installed in the image forming apparatus, and when a button press of the panel is accepted, a screen ( WEB page) is created and presented to the user, and a repair request mail describing the URL of the WEB page is created and transmitted.

JP 2005-190044 A

  When a repair request is made to the user of the repair requester, it is desirable that a response to the request or repair of the repair target repair is performed immediately. However, there is a case where the request destination of the repair request takes a long time to respond to the request.

  For example, if the time when the repair request is made is outside the business hours of the repair request destination, such as a support center, the response to the repair request is not made until the business start time of the next day after the repair request, A large time lag occurs between the repair request and 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, there is provided a mechanism for appropriately displaying a request object that receives a request operation related to the image forming apparatus using information on a time during which 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 be received, from the storage unit, and a current time is acquired by the time acquisition unit. A time determination means for determining whether the time is within the receivable time or outside the receivable time, a display means for displaying a request object for accepting the operation of the request, and an operation for the request object displayed by the display means, Transmitting means for transmitting a request for the image forming apparatus to a request destination, and the display means is configured to receive the request when the time determination means determines that the current time is within the acceptable time. When the request object is displayed so that an operation can be accepted, and when the current time is determined to be outside the acceptable time by the time determination unit, And changing the display of the request object so as to be identified that serial is admissible overtime requests.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the structure which shows the image concerning a repair request appropriately to a user can be provided.

1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an image forming system in an embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the hardware constitutions of the mail server and PC in embodiment of this invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a multifunction machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows an example of a function structure of the various apparatuses in embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the display process of the screen based on time information when the repair request application is started in embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the display process of the screen based on time information when the repair request button is pressed in embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the repair request process in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the cancellation of a repair request, and the repair request completion process in embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of the various data table in embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of button data in embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of the mail template in embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the display state of the screen according to time information in embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of the repair request screen in embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of the repair request content confirmation screen in embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of the notification screen which notifies that the repair request possible time is outside in the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the mode of the screen transition at the time of the repair request in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the mode of the screen transition in the case of the cancellation process of a repair request in embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the mode of the screen transition in the case of repair request completion processing in embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the function of a repair request application and a platform in embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the repair request process in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the reading process of the image used for the repair request in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the mode of the screen transition at the time of the reading process of the image used for the repair request in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the display state of the screen according to time information in embodiment of this invention in embodiment of this invention.

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

  Hereinafter, when processing, data, screens, etc. “in the embodiment of the present invention” are simply described, common processing, data, screens in the first embodiment and the second embodiment of the present invention are described. To do. In the description of this embodiment, it is assumed that the multifunction peripheral is an image forming apparatus.

  The MFP 300 has a platform and a repair request application installed therein, and the processing of the flowcharts of the respective drawings in the embodiment of the present invention is performed by the CPU of the MFP 300 of the platform or the repair request application. It shall be executed using the function.

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

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

  The MFP 300 can respond to a repair request from the support center that is the repair request destination of the MFP 300 (can accept a repair request (request for the image forming apparatus)) (repair request in FIG. 8). (Possible time 803 / predetermined time information) is stored.

  For example, each time the display screen is updated, the MFP 300 determines whether or not the current time is a time for which the repair request can be made (within a predetermined time), and the current time is a time for which the repair request can be made. If the current time is not a time for which the repair request is possible, the repair request button cannot be selected. To display on the display screen.

  The MFP 300 accepts pressing of the repair request button, accepts input of the contents of the repair request, accepts an instruction to make a repair request to the support center (to the PC 200), and sends a request for the repair request to the request destination. A mail for requesting repair is created, and the mail is sent 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 in the support center. The PC 200 is a repair request destination terminal. For example, a person in charge of repairing the multifunction device 300 confirms a repair request email received by the PC 200 and heads for the installation location of the multifunction device 300. The above is an example of the configuration of the image forming system in the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG.

  Next, an example of the 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 that comprehensively controls each device and controller connected to the system bus 204. Further, the ROM 202 or the external memory 211 is necessary to realize a BIOS (Basic Input / Output System) or an operating system program (hereinafter referred to as an OS), which is a control program of the CPU 201, or a function executed by each server or each PC. Various programs to be described later are stored.

  A RAM 203 functions as a main memory, work area, and the like for the CPU 201. The CPU 201 implements various operations by loading a program or the like necessary for execution of processing from the ROM 202 or the external memory 211 into the RAM 203 and executing the loaded program.

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

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

  A communication I / F controller 208 is connected to 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 display on the CRT 210 by executing outline font rasterization processing on a display information area in the RAM 203, for example. In addition, the CPU 201 enables a user instruction with a mouse cursor (not shown) on the CRT 210.

  Various programs to be described later for realizing the present invention are recorded in the external memory 211 and executed by the CPU 201 by being loaded into the RAM 203 as necessary. Furthermore, definition files 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 shown in FIG.

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

  In FIG. 3, reference numeral 316 denotes a controller unit which is connected to a scanner 314 functioning as an image input device and a printer unit 312 functioning as an image output device, while being 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 / 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. A RAM 302 is a system work memory for the CPU 301 to operate, and is also a program memory for recording a program 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. Further, the operation unit I / F 307 serves to transmit the key information (for example, pressing of the start button) input from the operation unit 308 to the CPU 301.

  A network interface (Network I / F) 305 is connected to the network (LAN) 150. In addition, wireless communication is also possible, and connection is made with other devices 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 inputs / outputs data such as FAX transmission / reception.

  Reference numeral 318 denotes an external interface (external I / F), which is an I / F unit that accepts external inputs such as USB, IEEE 1394, printer port, and RS-232C. In this embodiment, an IC card for a portable terminal required for authentication A card reader 319 for reading (storage medium) is connected to the external I / F unit 318. The CPU 301 can control reading of information from the IC card of the mobile terminal by the card reader 319 via the external I / F 318, and can acquire information read from the IC card of the mobile 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 an 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, resolution conversion, and the like on print output image data. In addition to this, the image processing unit 317 performs image data rotation and compression / decompression processing such as JPEG for multi-valued image data and JBIG, MMR, MH for binary image data.

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

  The printer unit 312 is a part that converts raster image data into an image on paper. The method is an electrophotographic method using a photosensitive drum or a photosensitive belt, and ink is ejected from a micro nozzle array directly on the paper. There is an inkjet method for printing an image, but any method 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, and a touch panel sheet is pasted on the LCD. The operation unit 308 displays an operation screen of the system. 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, a reset key, and the like as various operation keys.

  Note that the display unit has different display performance depending on the printer, and a printer that can be operated via a touch panel, a printer that simply has a liquid crystal screen and displays a character string (displays the print status and the name of the document being printed). Is structured.

  Here, the start key of the operation unit 308 is used when starting a document image reading operation. At the center of the start key, there are two color LEDs, green and red, which indicate whether or not the start key can be used. Further, the stop key of the operation unit 308 functions to stop the operation in operation. The ID key of the operation unit 308 is used when inputting the user ID of the user. The reset key is used when initializing 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. To notify. Further, the card reader 319 corresponds to the NFC communication standard, and is configured to be able to read and write to an IC card or an IC chip of a portable terminal. In addition, when an NFC standard-compliant portable terminal is held over an NFC standard-compliant card reader, authentication is performed and the portable terminal is paired with a printer (multifunction device). Then, communication (P2P) can be established between the held portable terminal and the printer (multifunction machine) to perform data communication. In addition, it is also possible to take over communication (handover) to Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark), which are high-speed communication standards, and to perform communication between the portable terminal and the printer (multifunction device). For example, by holding the portable terminal over a card reader, an image stored in the portable terminal can be transmitted to a printer (multifunction machine). The details of the NFC communication standard are conventional techniques, and thus the description thereof will be omitted.

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

On the platform, an application in which the main body function of the MFP 300 is extended is installed and operating. These applications are executed using the platform API.
Through this platform, it is possible to control each function of the printer.

  In addition, the MFP 300 also stores a Web browser, and can also cooperate with the Web system. In this case, the screen received from the web application server is displayed using a web browser. A command instructed on the Web browser is requested to the Web application server, and the MFP 300 can execute an operation (scanning or print processing) by receiving the command from the Web application server.

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

  Further, the image data read from the scanner 314 can be faxed to 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 shown 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 the repair request application and the platform in the embodiment of the present invention.

  The MFP 300 is set with a platform (OS) and a repair request application.

  The platform includes, for example, a print function (print function unit) that prints print data, and a FAX function (FAX function unit) that generates FAX data and transmits it to a transmission destination. In addition, an error request is detected by detecting an error in each function unit (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 described above, and a repair request application. The function (error control function part) of notifying is provided.

  In addition, the platform has, for example, a display function (display function unit) that displays a main menu screen on the display (display screen) for instructing the user to select / execute the print function or the FAX function. Prepare. For example, a print icon and a fax icon are arranged on the main menu screen and displayed on the display screen. Also, 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 a function of the repair request application. As long as the object is used for executing the function of the repair request application, for example, an icon (repair request icon) or another type of object may be used. That is, the object includes a button and an icon.

  Hereinafter, in the description of the embodiment, the description is described 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 for storing various operation histories, and the like.

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

  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 a repair request button, the repair request application transmits a button image of the repair request button and a display instruction for the button image to the platform, and the platform that has acquired the button image is within the platform. The button function and an instruction to display the button image on the main menu screen are transmitted to the display function unit. Then, the display function unit that has received the instruction generates a main menu screen on which the button is arranged and outputs the main menu screen on 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 the destination information to the platform. The platform application receives this and sends the mail to the network using a 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 shown in FIG.

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

  In FIG. 4, when an error is detected in the MFP 300, the error information transmission unit 401 of the platform displays error information (for example, an error code that is error identification information) as information on the error as 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 toner exhaustion.

  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 reception unit 402 in a storage area such as an external memory of the multifunction machine 300.

  The repair request available time acquisition unit 404 of the repair request application acquires information on the repair request available time from a storage area such as an external memory of the multifunction peripheral 300. The repair requestable time is information on a time during which a repair request for the MFP 300 can be requested. It is assumed that the repair requestable time is stored in advance in a storage area such as an external memory of the multifunction machine 300.

  When the repair request possible time acquisition unit 404 receives an instruction for screen transition to a display screen including a repair request button (button for making a repair request / details will be described later), for example, in the multifunction peripheral 300, Get repair request available time. Further, when an instruction to update the 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 pressing of the repair request button is accepted, the repair request available time is acquired.

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

  For example, when the repair request available time is 09: 0 to 17:00, it is determined whether the current time is 09: 0 to 17:00. When the current time is from 17:00:01 to 08:59:59, it is determined that it is out of time, and when the current time is from 09:00:00 to 17:00:00, it is determined that it is within time. To 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 repair request available time, it is determined that the repair request button is selectably displayed, and the platform is instructed to display the repair request button selectably on the display screen.

  Also, for example, if the current time is outside the repair request available time, it is determined that the repair request button cannot be selected, and the platform is displayed so that the repair request button cannot be selected. Instruct.

  In the embodiment of the present invention, there are a plurality of types of repair request buttons. Hereinafter, the repair request button displayed when the current time is within the repair request available time and not being requested for repair is referred to as “request button” (request object / repair request available time but not requested). That can be identified). A repair request button displayed when a repair request is being made is a “requesting button” (an object being requested / a button that can identify that a request has been sent). When the current time is out of the repair request time and the repair request is not in progress, the repair request button that is displayed is “Overtime button” (out-of-hours object / out of repair request time but not requested) That can be identified).

  The out-of-hours button is a repair request button that is displayed so as not to be selected (for example, displayed in gray out).

  The repair request screen display control unit 407 of the repair request application instructs the platform to display a repair request screen that is a screen for the user to input the contents of the repair request when the pressing of the request button described above is accepted. To do.

  The error information acquisition unit 408 of the repair request application acquires error information stored in the error information storage control unit 403 when an instruction to display error information (error code) is received on the 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 when an error information (error code) display instruction is received on the currently displayed repair request screen. , Tell the platform.

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

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

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

  The repair request mail receiving unit 421 of the PC 200 receives the repair request mail transmitted from the repair request mail transmitting unit 414. The above is an example of the functional configuration of various apparatuses in the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG.

  [First Embodiment]

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

  The time information here refers to the above-described repair requestable time.

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

  The CPU 301 of the multi-function apparatus 300 executes the 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, a notification of main menu display is received.

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

  Here, an example of the configuration of various data tables in 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 repair request available time 803, and the like. The mail server host name 801 indicates the host name of the mail server that is the transmission destination (request destination) of the repair request mail. The data table 800 is stored in the external memory of the multifunction machine 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 request for repair (repair request destination) is being requested for repair (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 the repair is not requested.

  The error code 820 is a table that stores an error code when the repair request application receives error information (error code) of the multifunction peripheral 300 from the platform. When the notification of error cancellation 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 an error code of an error that is currently occurring.

  Specifically, the repair request status 810 is included in a file that holds the content of the repair request, such as the 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 each item of the repair request content holding file 830 is displayed when a repair request is transmitted to the request destination, or Updated when a repair request is canceled. The above is an example of the configuration of various data tables in the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG.

  Returning to the description of FIG. 5A. The repair request application refers to the repair request status acquired in step S502 and determines whether a repair request is being made (step S503 / request status determination means). If it is determined that a repair request is not being made (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 available time 803 (step S504 / predetermined time acquisition means). Also, information on the current time is acquired. The information on the current time is measured by the platform using a clock function included in the function of the platform. The repair request application acquires 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 means). If the current time is within the time indicated by the repair request available time 803 (YES in step S505), a display instruction for 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 MFP 300 as shown in FIG. 9, the button image 902 and the character string 903 corresponding to “state 901 = repair not requested” are acquired. Then, the display instruction of the button image is transmitted to the platform.

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

  In accordance with the instruction, the platform performs processing for displaying a menu screen in which request buttons can be selected on the display screen of the multi-function device 300. For example, a main menu screen on which request buttons 1101 (selectable repair request buttons) such as the main menu screen 1100 in FIG. 11 are arranged is displayed.

  If it is determined in step S505 that the current time is outside the time indicated by the repair request available time 803 (NO in step S505), the repair request application indicates a time that is a 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, referring to the button data 900 in FIG. 9, a button image 902 and a character string 903 corresponding to “state 901 = out of repair request available time” are acquired, and the button image display instruction is sent to the platform. Send.

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

  The overtime button is a kind of repair request button. The out-of-hours button is a button indicating that the current time is outside the time indicated by the repair request available time 803 and that a repair request cannot be made at the current time. Further, the out-of-hours button is a repair request button that cannot be selected, and is displayed on the menu screen in a grayed-out state so that it cannot be selected, as indicated by an out-of-hours button 1121 in the main menu screen 1120 of FIG. Button.

  In other words, the CPU 301 of the multifunction machine 300 displays a menu screen arranged so that the repair request button cannot be selected on the display screen.

  If the CPU 301 of the MFP 300 determines in step S503 that a repair request is currently being made (YES in step S503), a requesting button (requesting button 1111 in FIG. 11) is arranged and displayed on the menu screen. The platform of the multifunction device 300 is instructed (step S507).

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

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

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

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

  Next, with reference to FIG. 5B, a flow of a screen display process based on time information when the repair request button is pressed according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 5B is a flowchart showing a flow of screen display processing based on time information when the 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 multifunction peripheral 300 using the function of the platform or the repair request application.

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

  Specifically, the platform notifies the repair request application of information that either the request button or the requesting button has been pressed. When the repair request application receives information indicating that any of the buttons has been pressed 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 the pressing of any of the above buttons has been accepted (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 process of step S512 is the same as the process of step S502 of FIG. 5A, description thereof 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 a repair request is not being made (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 either cancellation of the repair request or repair request completion processing is executed. Details of the cancellation of the repair request and the repair request completion process 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 process of step S514 is the same as the process of step S504 of FIG. 5A, description thereof 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 means). If the current time is within the time indicated by the repair request available time 803 (YES in step S515), the process proceeds to step S516, and the repair request process is performed.

  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 process in the second embodiment of the present invention will be described later with reference to FIGS.

  The repair request application moves the process to step S517 after the process of step S516 or step S520. In addition, after the process of step S517, the process proceeds to step S518. Since the process of step S517 is the same as the process of step S502 of FIG. 5A and step S512 of FIG. 5B, description thereof 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 a repair request is not being made (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.

  Since the process of step S519 is the same as the process of step S506 of FIG. 5A, description thereof is omitted. Further, the processing in step S521 is the same as the processing in step S507 in FIG.

  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 proceeds to step S522.

  The repair request application displays an error screen such as the 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 MFP 300 main body Is received, the process proceeds to step S523. Since the process of step S523 is the same as the process of step S508 of FIG. 5A, description thereof is omitted. The above is the description of the flow of the screen display processing based on the time information when the repair request button is pressed in the embodiment of the present invention of FIG. 5B.

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

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

  Next, the flow of the repair request process in 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 multifunction peripheral 300 using the function of the platform or the repair request application.

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

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

  The repair request screen 1200 includes a major item 1201, a “return” button 1202, a “repair request transmission” button 1205, and the like. The large item 1201 is an item for selecting the type of repair request. By accepting 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 manner. For example, items such as “image defect”, “error message”, and “print defect” are displayed in a pull-down manner.

  By accepting the selection of one of the items displayed in the pull-down display, the item for which the selection has been accepted 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 contents 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 major item 1201. In the large item 1211, “error message” is input.

  The error code 1212 is an input unit for displaying (inputting) the error code acquired from the external memory of the multi-function peripheral 300 by the repair request application. For example, the error code of the error currently occurring in the multi-function device 300, which is stored in the error code 820 of FIG. The above is an explanation of an example of the configuration of the repair request screen in the embodiment of the present invention shown 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 an instruction to press the “return” button 1202 has been received (YES in step S602), the process ends. If it is determined that an 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 a repair request execution instruction has been received.

  If the repair request application determines that an instruction to press the “repair request transmission” 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 “repair request transmission” button 1205 is not 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 or not an instruction for pressing a large item has been issued, and an instruction for selecting an item displayed in a pull-down manner has been issued in accordance with the pressing instruction.

  If the repair request application determines that an input instruction for 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 is received for an item other than the large item, a screen reflecting the result of the input instruction is generated, and a process of displaying on the display screen in step S601 is performed.

  If the repair request application determines that an 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 error code acquisition instruction has been received.

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

  If the repair request application determines that the item input to 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). More specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, the mail template 1000 of the repair request mail stored in the external memory of the multifunction device 300 is acquired, and each item that has been input on the repair request screen is received according to the mail template. 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 destination of the electronic mail.

  In addition to the information inserted in the main text, for example, a text file in which information on the company name, name, telephone number, and address in the repair request screen 1200, 1010 in FIG. Is generated, the text file is encrypted, and attached to the generated e-mail.

  As a result, the personal information of the user (requester) who requests the repair can be transmitted to the request destination of the repair request after being encrypted in order to enhance security.

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

  While the repair request mail is being sent, a screen such as a sending screen 1540 (FIG. 15) is displayed on the display screen. When the sending is completed, the sending completion such as the repair request sending completion screen 1550 (FIG. 15) is completed. Display the screen on the display screen.

  The repair request application uses the contents of the repair request used to generate the repair request email and the attached file (information input in each item of the repair request screen 1200 when the “send repair request” button 1205 is pressed). 8 is written in the corresponding item of the repair request content holding file 830 in FIG. 8, 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 process in the first embodiment of the present invention of FIG.

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

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

  The CPU 301 of the MFP 300 displays a repair request in-progress 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 processing for displaying the repair request content confirmation screen on the display screen.

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

  The repair request content confirmation screen 1300 is a repair request content confirmation screen when the major item being repaired is not an error message. The repair request content confirmation screen 1310 is a repair request content confirmation screen when a major item being repaired 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 cancellation” button 1302, a “CE repair work complete” button 1303, and the like. The “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 the repair request. In other words, this button is used to cancel a repair request. When the pressing of the “repair request cancel” button 1302 is accepted, the repair request application notifies the repair request destination of cancellation of the repair request.
Also, a process of rewriting the repair request status 810 of the repair request content holding file 830 to “false” is performed.

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

  Returning to the description of FIG. The repair request application determines whether or not the pressing of the “repair request cancel” button 1302 has been received (step S702). That is, it is determined whether an instruction to cancel the repair request has been issued.

  If the repair request application determines that the pressing of the “cancel repair request” button 1302 has been received (YES in step S702), the repair request application generates a repair request cancel mail (step S707). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, a cancel mail template 1010 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 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). While the cancel email is being transmitted, a screen such as a transmission 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 pressing of the “repair request cancel” button 1302 has not been received (NO in step S702), the repair request application determines whether the pressing of the “CE repair work completion” button 1303 has been received (step S703). That is, it is determined whether an instruction for notifying the repair request destination of completion of repair has been received.

  If the repair request application determines that pressing of the “CE repair work complete” button 1303 is not accepted (NO in step S703), the process ends.

  When the repair request application determines that the pressing of the “CE repair work complete” 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 a 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 acquired according to the mail template. Generate an e-mail with the URL inserted in the text.

  Then, the mail address 802 is set as the destination of the repair request mail and transmitted (step S705). While the repair completion mail is being transmitted, a screen such as a transmission 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 the description of the flow of the cancellation of the repair request and the repair request completion process in the embodiment of the present invention of FIG.

  With reference to FIG. 18, an example of processing for each application in the embodiment of the present invention will be described. As described above, the platform (OS) includes a function (error control unit) that detects an error in the MFP 300 and notifies the repair request application.

  In addition, a display function (screen display function unit) that displays 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).

  The first embodiment of the present invention has been described above.

  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 repair request is made for the MFP 300, a scan image obtained by scanning a printed matter and an image of print data that is data of a printing source of the document are attached (attached) to the repair request. Screen (scan screen / for example, FIG. 21) is displayed.

  Also, the scanned image obtained by scanning the printed material and the print data that is the printing source data of the printed material are attached (attached) to the repair request (repair request mail).

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

  For example, there are undetectable errors such as color misregistration, printing with streaks in the image, printing with incorrect color, and the like as troubles of the multifunction device. When such a symptom occurs, the user requesting the repair explains the symptom of the error to the repair requesting user by telephone or the like. This is done by instructing usage and dispatching service personnel.

  It is very complicated for the repair requesting user to explain the symptoms of such an undetectable error, and it is difficult to appropriately explain the symptoms. The content of the error is not accurately transmitted to the repair request destination (repair request destination user), and it has not been possible to immediately determine how to deal with the repair request source user.

  In addition, there is a problem that the user of the repair requester does not know how to convey the error content to the repair requester.

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

  Further, by displaying the scan screen, it is possible to present information on the screen necessary for the repair request with each image attached 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, for example, when color misregistration occurs in the MFP 300 (that is, when repair is necessary), printed matter This is effective when the user of the repair request destination is to confirm the content of the repair request, such as the degree of color misregistration between the image and the print data image that is the print source data.

  In addition, on the scan screen, by comparing and displaying a scanned image obtained by scanning the printed matter and an image of the print data that is the printing source data of the printed matter, the repair request source user can really repair the multifunction device 300. This is effective for checking if necessary.

  In other words, when it appears that color misregistration has occurred in the printed material, but there is no difference between the image of the print data of the printing source and the printed material, the multifunction device 300 is configured to display each image for comparison and allow the user to confirm. It is possible to make the user confirm that no repair request is required.

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

  In the second embodiment, the process of FIG. 19 is executed as the process of step S516 of FIG. 5B instead of the process of FIG. 6 in the first embodiment. Since the processes in FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 7 are the same as those in the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted.

  Moreover, since the process of step S601-step S604 of FIG. 19 and step S606-step S608 is the same as the process of step S601-step S604 of FIG. 6, step S606-step S608, description is omitted here.

  In step S1901, the repair request application determines whether the item input in the major item 1201 is an “error message” (step S1901). That is, it is determined whether an error code acquisition instruction 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 to 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 to 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 to the large item is “printing failure” (YES in step S1902), the process proceeds to step S1903, and the scan image attachment process (the image reading process used for the repair request) is executed. (Step S1903). The scan image attachment process will be described later with reference to FIG.

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

  With reference to FIG. 21, an example of screen transition and an example of the configuration of each screen at the time of reading an image used for a repair request according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a state of screen transition during the reading process of the image used for the 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 “attach image” button 2103, and the like. The original image display unit is a display unit that displays an image of printed print data. For example, an image of print data from which the printed material is printed is displayed.

  The output image display unit 2102 is a display unit that displays a scan image generated by scanning (reading) a printed material. For example, a printed material on which print data that is 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 changing the display screen to the history list screen 2110. The history list screen 2110 is a screen for selecting print data (print data image) to be displayed on the original image display unit 2101 and scanning (generation) of a scan image to be displayed on the output image display unit 2102.

  Specifically, a list of operation histories in the multifunction device 300 is acquired, displayed in a list on the list display unit 2111, and image data of print data corresponding to the operation history accepted from the list is displayed as the multifunction device 300. From the external memory (print data storage means).

  Each time the platform of the MFP 300 prints the print data (outputs to paper), the image data of the print data is stored in the storage area such as the external memory of the MFP 300 in the operation history. Assume that information is stored in association with information.

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

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

  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 thus description thereof is omitted.

  When the “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. Scanned images (images of print data corresponding to the history selected in the list display portion 2111), images displayed on the output image display portion 2122 (scans of printed matter scanned by pressing the “scan” button 2112) (Image) is described and attached to the e-mail and sent to the e-mail address 802 (FIG. 8).

  The above is the description of the state of the screen transition and the example of the configuration of each screen during the reading process of the image used for the repair request in the second embodiment of the present invention of FIG.

  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 “image attachment” button 2103 has not been pressed (NO in step S2002), the process returns to step S2001.

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

  As described above, when the user performs an operation such as copying, printing, and FAX, the platform of the MFP 300 holds the operation history (output image, operation time, etc.) in the external memory of the HDD. Here, the operation history saved at the time of operation is acquired.

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

  The repair request application executes the process of step S2004 for the number of histories acquired in step S2003, and then generates a history list screen 2110 in which the list generated in step S2004 is displayed 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 processing for displaying the history list screen on the display screen.

  The repair request application determines whether or not the selection of the operation history in the list display unit has been accepted (step S2006). If it is determined that the selection has been accepted (YES in step S2006), the selected operation history is changed to a selected state. (Step S2013), the process returns to step S2005.

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

  If it is determined that the “scan” button 2112 has been pressed (YES in step S2007), the CPU 301 of the multifunction peripheral 300 scans a document (printed material) set on the multifunction peripheral 300 to generate a scanned image, and then creates a composite image. Store in the external memory of the machine 300 (step S2008).

  Specifically, the repair request application instructs the platform to start the scanning process, and the platform that receives the instruction executes the document scanning process using the function of the scanning unit of the multifunction peripheral body.

  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 the scan screen 2120 in FIG. 21, each image is displayed (comparison display) in comparison with the display screen (step S2010 / comparison screen display means).

  The repair request application determines whether the “send repair request” button 2123 has been pressed (step S2011). If it determines that the “send repair request” button 2123 has not been pressed (NO in step S2011), the process is performed. Return to 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 medium 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. In addition, an image displayed on the original image display unit 2121 (an image of print data corresponding to the history selected in the list display unit 2111) and an image displayed on the output image display unit 2122 (a “scan” button 2112 are pressed). The scanned image of the printed material scanned) 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 image reading process used for the repair request in the second embodiment of the present invention of FIG.

  Returning to the description of FIG. The repair request application transmits the repair request mail generated in step S2012 in FIG. 20 toward 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. Further, the repair request status 810 of 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 process in FIG. 19 according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  The second embodiment of the present invention has been described above.

  According to the second embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to make a repair request destination user confirm a difference between a printed matter and an image of print data that is print source data.

  In addition, it is possible to present information on a screen necessary 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 an image relating to a repair request to the user.

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

  For example, if a management server that manages repair request information is present in the support center, the MFP 300 can store information in a predetermined communication method and file format separately from the repair request application. It is conceivable that a notification application that can transmit and receive is set on the platform. For example, there is a case where a repair requesting user subscribes to a management system that monitors the state of the MFP 300.

  In this case, since it is considered that information such as customer information and the model number of the multifunction device is already registered in the management server, the repair request application receives an external request when pressing 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 error code 820 information 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 (makes a 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 cancellation emails and repair completion emails.

  In the above-described embodiment, the process of step S502 (the process after S502) is started by receiving a repair request application activation instruction from the platform in step S501 of FIG. 5A. When the menu screen update process is performed, the process of step S502 (the process after S502) may be started.

  For example, an instruction to change the display screen to the screen where the repair request button is arranged is received, or an instruction to update the display screen is received while the main menu screen where the repair request button is arranged (not correct). When the screen update button shown in the figure is pressed), the repair request application receives information from the platform that the update of the screen is instructed, and the process proceeds to step S502. Information regarding which screen the repair request button is arranged on is assumed to be stored in advance in the storage area such as the external memory of the multifunction peripheral.

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

  For example, in step S508 in FIG. 5A and in 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. The main menu screen that is not present may be displayed on the display screen (for example, the main menu screen 2220 of FIG. 22 is displayed).

  Also, for example, a button indicating that the overtime button can be pressed regardless of whether the repair request is possible or not is displayed, and if it is outside the repair request time, the repair request button (pressable overtime button) is pressed. Even if it is done, the repair request may not be transmitted. For example, in step S508 in FIG. 5A and step S523 in FIG. 5B, the overtime button is displayed on the display screen without being grayed out, and the process is terminated without sending a repair request even if a press is accepted.

In addition, when an out-of-hours button press is received outside the repair request available time, the repair request application stores the press operation in the external memory of the MFP 300 (operation storage means), and a repair request can be made. When it is within the time, a repair request may be automatically transmitted, and the display of the overtime button may be changed to a requesting button.

  Specifically, when it is determined in step S515 that the repair request time is out (that is, when a repair request button indicating that the repair request time is out is pressed), the repair request application The fact that the out-of-hours button has been pressed outside the repair requestable time is stored in the external memory of the multifunction machine 300. Then, the non-time button is a request waiting button (not shown) stored in the external memory of the MFP 300 (the button is pressed outside the repair request possible time, and when the repair request time is reached, a repair request is transmitted. , A button indicating that the request is waiting to be transmitted) is displayed on the display screen in place of the overtime button. Then, when the current time information and repair request available time are periodically acquired and the current time falls within the repair request available time, an error occurring in the MFP 300 at the present time (date and time indicated by the current time) Is acquired (execution of the process of step S606), and the process proceeds to step S608 to create an e-mail including the error code. As a result, it is possible to notify the user that a repair request instruction has been received outside the repair request available time. In addition, when the repair request time is reached, the repair request is automatically sent and the button display is switched to notify the user that the repair request has been sent for the first time within the repair request time. it can.

  Here, it is assumed that the error code of the error occurring in the MFP 300 at the current time (date and time indicated by the current time) is acquired and sent by a repair request email. For example, repair is performed when the overtime button is pressed. The request application obtains the error code and stores it in the external memory of the MFP 300 together with the date and time when the pressing was accepted, and when the repair request was possible, the pressing of the off-time button was accepted from the external memory. You may make it acquire the error code of the error in a date, and send with a repair request mail.

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

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

  In addition, when pressing of the “Repair Request Transmission” 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 displayed on the repair request transmission confirmation screen 1530. When the button is pressed, a process for sending a repair request mail may be performed. In this case, the repair request application executes the display process of the repair request transmission confirmation screen 1530 and the determination process of whether the “OK” button has been pressed between step S603 and step S608 in FIG.

  In the description of the above-described embodiment, when the request button is pressed on the main menu screen, the repair request content confirmation screen is displayed. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 16 and 17, 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 advance in the external memory of the MFP 300, the repair request content confirmation screen (1620, 1710) is displayed. 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 password match determination between step S513 and step S520 in FIG.

  In addition, when the “Cancel” button is pressed on the repair request confirmation screen, the repair request cancel confirmation dialog 1630 is displayed on the display screen, and the “OK” button is pressed on the repair request cancel confirmation dialog 1630. In addition, a process for sending a cancellation mail may be performed. In this case, the repair request application executes the display process of the repair request cancel confirmation dialog 1630 and the determination process of whether or not the “OK” button has been pressed between step S702 and step S707 in FIG.

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

  In this case, the repair request application executes the display processing of the maintenance password input screen 1730, the determination of whether the “OK” button has been pressed, and the password matching determination processing between step S703 and step S704 in FIG. Shall.

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

  In the above description of the embodiment, the information on the repair requestable 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 repair request information exists in the support center, and the IP address of the management server is stored in the external memory of the multi-function device 300. The repair request application of the MFP 300 executes the processing from step S502 onward at a predetermined time interval or when a predetermined time (time) comes, and requests information on the repair requestable time from the management server in step S504. Then, the repair requestable time is acquired (the management server transmits the repair requestable time to the MFP 300 in response to the request (time transmission means)). Then, the processing in steps S506 and S508 may be executed. Similarly, in step S514, the repair requestable time may be acquired by inquiring of the management server about the repair requestable time. The repair requestable time may be stored in a storage device other than the multifunction peripheral 300 and the management server. For example, it may be stored in a storage medium such as a memory card connected to the multifunction device 300.

  In addition, calendar information (information indicating which month / day is the business day / closed day of the support center) is stored in the external memory of the MFP 300, and display control of the repair request button and the overtime button is performed according to the calendar information. You may do. Specifically, when it is determined in step S503 that the repair request is not in progress, the repair request application acquires the calendar information from the external memory and determines whether the current date is the business day of the support center. If it is a business day, the process proceeds to step S504, and if it is a closed day, the process proceeds to step S508 to display an overtime button. When it is determined in step S513 that the repair request is not in progress, the repair request application acquires the calendar information from the external memory and determines whether the current date is the business day of the support center. If it is a business day, the process proceeds to step S514. If it is a closed day, the process proceeds to step S522 to display an error, and an overtime button is displayed in step S523. That is, in the case of a closed day, the determination of whether or not the current time is a repair requestable time can be skipped, and the process can be simplified.

  Here, the calendar information and the repair request available time information are stored in the storage unit as separate data. However, for example, the repair request available time information is stored including the calendar information, and the repair request available time is stored. The above information may be acquired, and determination using the above-described calendar information 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 make an appropriate repair request 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 related to a repair request to a user based on time information.

  The embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above. However, the present invention can take an embodiment as a system, an apparatus, a method, a program that can be read and executed by the apparatus, a storage medium, or the like. In addition, the present invention may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices, or may be applied to an apparatus composed of a single device.

  For example, the multifunction device 300 and the mail server 100 may be a single device. In other words, for example, the processing (for example, 411 and 4112 in FIG. 4) described as being executed by the mail server 100 in the above-described embodiment using the function of the MFP 300 by the platform of the MFP 300 is performed. You may make it perform in.

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

  In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, 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, or the like can be used.

  Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (basic system or operating system) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. Needless to say, a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by performing part or all of the actual processing and the processing is included.

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

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

Claims (12)

Time acquisition means for acquiring a receivable time, which is a time during which the request destination of the request can be received, from the storage unit;
Time determination means for determining whether the current time is within the acceptable time acquired by the time acquisition means or outside the acceptable time;
Display means for displaying a request object for receiving the operation of the request;
Transmitting means for transmitting a request for the image forming apparatus to a request destination by accepting an operation on the request object displayed by the display means;
With
The display means displays the request object so as to accept the operation of the request when the time judging means judges that the current time is within the acceptable time, while the time judging means When it is determined that the time is outside the acceptable time, the image forming apparatus changes the display of the requested object so that it can be identified that it is outside the acceptable time for the request. Request determination means for determining whether the request has already been transmitted by the transmission means;
With
The display means displays the request object so that it can be identified 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 transmission means does not transmit the request to the request destination when an operation for the request object is received outside the receivable time, and when the operation for 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 the operation for the requested object has been received outside the receivable time;
With
The transmission means is a case where it is stored in the operation storage means that an operation for the requested object has been received outside the receivable time, and the current time is within the receivable time by the time determination means. 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the request is automatically transmitted to a request destination when the request is determined.   The display unit arranges and displays the request object so that the operation of the request can be received when the time determination unit determines that the current time is within the acceptable time, while the time determination 5. The request object that does not accept the operation of the request is arranged and displayed when the means determines that the current time is outside the acceptable time. 5. The image forming apparatus described in 1. Print data storage means for storing print data that has been printed;
Image reading means for reading an image of a printed document;
With
The transmission means transmits the request including the print data executed by the printing stored in the print data storage means and a scanned image that is an image of a document read by the image reading means to the request destination. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5. Input accepting means for accepting input of request contents of the request;
Comparison in which the print data stored in the print data storage unit and the scanned image that is the image of the original read by the image reading unit are compared and displayed on the display screen when a predetermined request content is input by the input receiving unit. A 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 provided in an external device,
The said time acquisition means acquires the said acceptable time from the memory | storage part of the said external device by requesting the said acceptable time to the said external device, The any one of Claim 1 thru | or 7 characterized by the above-mentioned. The image forming apparatus described. The display means displays a request button as the request object capable of accepting the request operation when the time judging means judges that the current time is within the acceptable time, and the time judging means If the current time is determined to be outside the admissible time, to claim 1, characterized in that displaying the overtime button as the request object can be identified in that the a receivable overtime requests The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. A time acquisition step of acquiring a receivable time from the storage unit, which is a time during which a request destination of the request can be received by the request destination of the request;
A time determination step for determining whether the current time is within the receivable time or outside the receivable time acquired in the time acquisition step;
A display step for displaying a request object for receiving 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 as to be able to accept the operation of the request when the current time is determined to be within the acceptable time in the time determination step, while the current time is determined in the time determination step. When the time is determined to be outside the receivable time, the display of the request object is changed so that it can be identified that it is outside the receivable time of the request. Method. The image forming apparatus
Time acquisition means for acquiring a receivable time, which is a time during which the request destination of the request can be received, from the storage unit;
Time determination means for determining whether the current time is within the acceptable time acquired by the time acquisition means or outside the acceptable time;
Display means for displaying a request object for receiving the operation of the request;
By accepting an operation on the request object displayed by the display means, it functions as a transmission means for transmitting a request for the image forming apparatus to a request destination,
The display means displays the request object so as to accept the operation of the request when the time judging means judges that the current time is within the acceptable time, while the time judging means When it is determined that the time is outside the acceptable time, the program changes the display of the requested object so that it can be identified that it is outside the acceptable time for the request. 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 acquired by the time acquisition means or outside the acceptable time;
Display means for displaying a request object for receiving the operation of the request;
Transmitting means for transmitting a request for the image forming apparatus to the server that is a request destination by receiving an operation on the request object displayed by the display means;
With
The server
Time transmitting means for transmitting the acceptable time to the image forming apparatus in response to a request from the image forming apparatus;
Accepting means for accepting the request transmitted by the transmitting means;
With
The display means displays the request object so as to accept the operation of the request when the time judging means judges that the current time is within the acceptable time, while the time judging means When it is determined that the time is outside the acceptable time, the image forming system changes the display of the requested object so that it can be identified that it is outside the acceptable time for the request.

Images