JP6164020B2 - Image forming apparatus and program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus such as an MFP (Multi-Functional Peripheral) and a related technology.

  In an image forming apparatus such as an MFP, there is a technique for customizing and registering an operation screen for each user (see Patent Document 1). According to this, each user can perform various operations using the operation screen customized for himself / herself.

  However, in such customization technology, when the registration operation of the customization panel is performed, basically, the user is required to manually arrange parts to be arranged on the customization panel one by one. Therefore, the creation operation of the customized panel is not always efficient.

  Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-228561 describes a technique for using an existing customized panel of another user as a customized panel for the current user based on the usage history of the current user. In the technique of Patent Document 2, an existing customized panel of another user is used as it is as a customized panel for the current user.

JP 2008-11220 A JP 2011-15179 A

  However, in the technique described in Patent Document 2, a customized panel having exactly the same contents as other users' registered contents can only be used as it is. Therefore, it cannot be said that this technique has sufficient flexibility.

  Note that the same problem may occur with respect to a registration operation in which a combination of a plurality of setting contents in copy processing or the like is registered in advance in the program memory.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a technique that can flexibly and efficiently generate new registration contents in a predetermined registration operation.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention of claim 1 is an image forming apparatus, an acquisition means for acquiring an existing registration operation history relating to a predetermined registration operation, and an operation for accepting designation of a diversion range in the registration operation history Means, extracting means for extracting diversion registration contents corresponding to the diversion range from a plurality of registration contents included in the registration operation history from the registration operation history, and reusing the diversion registration contents Generating means for generating a registered content, wherein the extracting means extracts a part of the registered content corresponding to the diversion range among the plurality of registered content included in the registration operation history as the diverted registered content It is possible to do.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the first aspect of the invention, the operation unit displays the registration operation history in a moving image mode, and the diversion range is displayed in accordance with the display in the moving image mode. A specification input for specifying a start position and an end position is received.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the first aspect of the invention, the generating unit combines the plurality of diversion registration contents respectively extracted from the plurality of registration operation histories to obtain the new registration contents. It is characterized by generating.

  According to a fourth aspect of the invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the third aspect of the invention, the operation means accepts designation of a diversion range in each of the plurality of registered operation histories.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the third aspect of the invention, the operation unit arranges and displays a plurality of figures respectively indicating the plurality of diversion contents in a predetermined direction according to the diversion order. It is characterized by that.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the operation means performs registration contents based on diversion contents up to the respective points in accordance with operations on the respective points before and after the plurality of figures. Is displayed.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the third aspect of the invention, the operation means accepts a diversion order change instruction relating to the plurality of registered operation histories, and the generation means is based on the change instruction, The new registration content is generated by switching the diversion order regarding the plurality of registration operation histories.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the third aspect of the invention, the operation unit accepts an instruction to add a diversion target registration operation history, and the extraction unit is designated as an additional target in the addition instruction. The diversion registration content relating to the new registration operation history is extracted from the new registration operation history, and the generating means also diverts the new diversion registration content to the new registration content. It is characterized by generating.

  According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the first aspect of the invention, the operation unit receives an instruction to delete a registration operation history of a diversion target, and the generation unit is configured to delete a deletion target based on the deletion instruction. The diverted registration content related to the registration operation history is deleted from the new registration content.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the first aspect, the predetermined registration operation is a registration operation for registering an operation menu screen customized for each user as a customized screen.

  According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the tenth aspect, the generation unit combines the plurality of diversion registration contents respectively extracted from the plurality of registration operation histories as the new registration contents. In the case of generating a customization screen for a certain user, when arrangement positions of a plurality of setting items included in the plurality of diversion registration contents overlap in the customization screen, based on a specified diversion order by the user A priority order among the plurality of setting items is determined, the new registration content is generated, and a customization screen for the user is generated.

  According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the tenth aspect of the invention, the generation unit combines the plurality of diversion registration contents respectively extracted from the plurality of registration operation histories as the new registration contents. When generating a customization screen for a certain user, when the arrangement positions of a plurality of setting items included in the plurality of diversion registration contents overlap in the customization screen, the plurality of settings in the image forming apparatus A priority order among the plurality of setting items is determined based on the frequency of use of the items, the new registration content is generated, and a customization screen for the user is generated.

  According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the tenth aspect of the present invention, the generating unit combines the plurality of diversion registration contents respectively extracted from the plurality of registration operation histories as the new registration contents. In the case of generating a customization screen for a certain user, when arrangement positions of a plurality of setting items included in the plurality of diversion registration contents overlap in the customization screen, the setting items of the plurality of setting items by the user are displayed. A priority order among the plurality of setting items is determined based on a use frequency, the new registration content is generated, and a customization screen for the user is generated.

  According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the tenth aspect of the invention, the acquisition unit acquires a registration operation history by a second user when generating a customized screen for the first user, and generates the generation screen. The means generates the customization screen for the first user based on the diversion registration content extracted from the registration operation history by the second user.

  According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the first aspect of the invention, the predetermined registration operation is a registration operation in which a combination of a plurality of setting contents is registered in advance.

  According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, when the first program memory is registered, the acquisition unit performs a registration operation of another existing program memory other than the first program memory. A history is acquired, and the generation unit generates the new registration content related to the first program memory based on the diversion registration content extracted from the registration operation history of the other program memory. .

  According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, a) receiving a designation of a diversion range in a registration operation history relating to a predetermined registration operation to a computer built in the image forming apparatus; and b) a plurality of registration contents included in the registration operation history. To extract the diversion registration content, which is the registration content corresponding to the diversion range, from the registration operation history, and c) to generate the new registration content by diverting the diversion registration content In step b), as the diversion registration content, a part of the registration content corresponding to the diversion range among a plurality of registration contents included in the registration operation history can be extracted. And

  According to the invention described in any one of claims 1 to 17, by using the registered content corresponding to the diversion range specified by the user among the plurality of registered content included in the existing registered operation history, New registration in the registration operation can be performed flexibly and efficiently.

1 is a diagram illustrating an external configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment. It is a figure which shows the functional block of an image forming apparatus. It is a figure which shows the setting screen for performing registration operation | movement etc. of a customization screen. It is a figure which shows the normal registration operation | movement of a customization screen. It is a figure which shows the normal registration operation | movement of a customization screen. It is a figure which shows the normal registration operation | movement of a customization screen. It is a figure which shows the normal registration operation | movement of a customization screen. It is a figure which shows the normal registration operation | movement of a customization screen. It is a figure which shows the normal registration operation | movement of a customization screen. It is a figure which shows the normal registration operation | movement (deletion process) of a customization screen. It is a figure which shows the registration operation log information regarding a customization screen. It is a figure which shows the registration operation log information regarding another customization screen. It is a figure which shows the operation screen which designates the registration operation history of the diversion object. It is a figure which shows the data table which prescribes | regulates the registration content of a customization screen. It is a figure which shows the customization registration content produced | generated using two user's registration operation log | history. It is a figure which shows the customization registration content produced | generated using the registration operation log | history of 3 users. It is a figure which shows a mode that the registration operation history of 2 users was replaced. It is a figure which shows diversion range designation | designated operation. It is a figure which shows diversion range designation | designated operation. It is a figure which shows diversion range designation | designated operation. It is a figure which shows diversion range designation | designated operation. It is a figure which shows diversion range designation | designated operation. It is a figure which shows the operation screen which performs selection etc. of the registration operation history of the next diversion object. It is a figure which shows the operation screen which designates the diversion range. It is a figure which shows the operation screen which confirms the registration operation log | history etc. of diversion object. It is a figure which shows a mode that the arrangement position of the diversion registration content of 2 users overlaps. It is a figure which shows the customization screen produced | generated by diversion. 3 is a flowchart showing a part of the operation of the image forming apparatus. It is a figure which shows the data table which shows the usage frequency of a several setting item. It is a figure which shows the data table which prescribes | regulates the default value regarding the various settings in a copy process (2nd Embodiment). It is a figure which shows the registration operation log information of "registration 1". It is a figure which shows the registration operation log information of "registration 2". It is a figure which shows the data table which prescribes | regulates the registration content of program memory "registration 3". FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a setting screen for a setting item “original image quality” in copy processing. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a setting screen for a setting item “color” in copy processing. It is a figure which shows the setting screen (normal) which selects the registration destination of a program memory. It is a figure which shows the screen which designates the registration operation log | history of diversion object. It is a figure which shows the operation screen which designates the diversion range. It is a figure which shows the screen which designates the registration operation log | history of the next diversion object. It is a figure which shows the operation screen which designates the diversion range. It is a figure which shows the operation screen which confirms the registration operation log | history etc. of diversion object. It is a figure which shows the screen which designates the registration destination of a new program memory. It is a figure which shows the screen which has a pop-up display of diversion registration content.

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

<1. First Embodiment>
<1-1. Outline of configuration>
In the first embodiment, a technique capable of flexibly and efficiently performing an operation of registering an operation menu screen (customized screen) customized for each user in the image forming apparatus 10 will be described.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an external configuration of an image forming apparatus 10 (also referred to as 10A) according to the first embodiment. Here, an MFP (Multi-Functional Peripheral) is exemplified as the image forming apparatus 10.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating functional blocks of the MFP 10.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the MFP 10 is a device (also referred to as a multifunction device) having a scan function, a copy function, a facsimile function, a box storage function, and the like. Specifically, as shown in the functional block diagram of FIG. 2, the MFP 10 includes an image reading unit 2, a print output unit 3, a communication unit 4, a storage unit 5, an operation unit 6, a controller 9, and the like. Various functions are realized by operating each part of the above in a complex manner.

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

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

  The communication unit 4 is a processing unit capable of performing facsimile communication via a public line or the like. Furthermore, the communication unit 4 can also perform network communication via a network. In this network communication, for example, various protocols such as TCP / IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol) are used. By using the network communication, the MFP 10 can exchange various data with a desired partner (for example, the external terminal 50).

  The storage unit 5 includes a storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD). The storage unit 5 stores data related to the print job. The storage unit 5 also stores various operation histories (including registered operation histories).

  The user interface unit (also referred to as an operation unit) 6 includes an operation input unit 6a that receives input to the MFP 10 and a display unit 6b that displays and outputs various types of information.

  The MFP 10 is provided with a substantially plate-like operation panel unit 6c (see FIG. 1). The operation panel 6c has a touch panel 25 (see FIG. 1) on the front side. The touch panel 25 is configured by embedding a piezoelectric sensor or the like in a liquid crystal display panel, and can display various kinds of information and accept an operation input from an operator. For example, on the touch panel 25, menu images (including button images and the like) are displayed. The operator can set various operation contents of the image forming apparatus 10 by pressing a button (button represented by a button image) virtually arranged in the touch panel 25. The touch panel 25 functions as a part of the operation input unit 6a and also functions as a part of the display unit 6b.

  The controller 9 is a control device that is built in the MFP 10 and controls the MFP 10 in an integrated manner. The controller 9 is configured as a computer system including a CPU and various semiconductor memories (RAM and ROM). The controller 9 implements various processing units by executing predetermined software programs (hereinafter also simply referred to as programs) stored in a ROM (for example, EEPROM) in the CPU. Note that the program (specifically, a program module group) may be installed in the MFP 10 via a portable recording medium such as a USB memory or a network.

  Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the controller 9 performs various processes including the operation control unit 11, the input / output control unit 12, the acquisition unit 14, the extraction unit 15, and the generation unit 16 by executing the program. Realize the part.

  The operation control unit 11 is a processing unit that controls various operations such as a print output operation and a scan operation in the image forming apparatus 10.

  The acquisition unit 14 is a processing unit that acquires an existing registration operation history related to a predetermined registration operation (for example, a panel customization screen registration operation).

  The input / output control unit 12 is a processing unit that controls operation input processing and output processing (display processing and the like) in cooperation with the operation unit 6 and the like. For example, the input / output control unit 12 accepts designation of a diversion range (described later) in the registration operation history.

  The extraction unit 15 is a processing unit that extracts, from a plurality of registration contents included in the registration operation history, diversion registration contents that are registration contents (all or part of registration contents) corresponding to the diversion range from the registration operation history. is there.

  The generation unit 16 is a processing unit that generates new registration contents by using the diversion registration contents.

<1-2. Operation>
<Pre-registration operation by another user (UB, UC)>
In this embodiment, a customization screen for a certain user UA is newly created by combining a plurality of diversion registration contents respectively extracted from a plurality of registration operation histories (for example, a plurality of customization registration operation histories by users UB and UC). A description will be given of an aspect of generating as a registered content. Specifically, when generating a customization screen for the user UA, first, an existing registration operation history by another user UB, UC is acquired. Then, a customization screen for the user UA is generated based on the diversion registration contents extracted from the registration operation history by the different users UB and UC.

  However, hereinafter, a registration operation performed prior to a registration operation for a specific user UA, more specifically, a registration operation for a customization screen for another user (UB or the like) will be described first.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a setting screen 101 for performing a registration operation of the customization screen. The setting screen 101 is displayed on the touch panel 25 in accordance with a predetermined operation of each user (login user) who has logged into the image forming apparatus 10.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the setting screen 101 includes a plurality of options such as “2. Panel customization setting (normal)” and “3. Panel customization setting (diversion)”.

  When "2. Panel customization setting (normal)" is selected by the login user UB among these options, the operation for customizing and registering the menu screen (operation menu screen) for the user UB is executed as follows. The

  4 to 9 are diagrams sequentially showing the registration operation of the customization screen for the user UB in time series.

  When the option “2. Panel customization setting (normal)” in FIG. 3 is pressed, a registration screen 220 (221) shown in FIG. 4 is first displayed.

  The registration screen 221 (FIG. 4) is a diagram showing an operation menu screen before the panel parts (specifically, part images indicating menu items) are arranged.

  When the user UB presses a desired position on the registration screen 221, a registration screen 220 (222) as shown in FIG. 5 is displayed. The registration screen 222 includes the following dialog screen.

  On the dialog screen, a message “Please select a panel part to be arranged” is displayed, and panel parts to be selected are listed. Examples of panel parts that are candidates for selection include those relating to “original image quality”, “color”, “density”, and the like. The user UB can specify a desired panel part to be arranged by selecting a desired option from a plurality of options related to the panel part (pressing a portion corresponding to the desired option). .

  The dialog screen also displays panel size options (for example, “large”, “medium”, and “small”). The user UB can also specify the size of the panel part by selecting a desired option from a plurality of options related to the panel part.

  When the user UB selects a desired option “original image quality” from among a plurality of options related to the panel parts, a registration screen 220 (223) in which the panel part “original image quality” is arranged at a specified position as shown in FIG. Is displayed. FIG. 6 shows a state where the panel part “original image quality” is arranged as a button 211 at a designated position in the registration screen 223. Here, default values are used as the detailed setting contents regarding each panel part. For example, the default value “character” is set as the detailed setting content regarding “original image quality”. The default value (“character”) is shown at the center of the button 211.

  In response to a similar operation, the panel part “color” is arranged as the button 212 (see the registration screen 220 (224) in FIG. 7). Further, the panel part “density” is arranged as the button 213 (see the registration screen 220 (225) in FIG. 8), and the panel part “paper” is arranged as the button 214 (the registration screen 220 (226) in FIG. 9). reference). The default value “Auto Color” is set for the detailed settings for “Color”, the default value “Normal” is set for the detailed settings for “Density”, and the default setting for “Paper” is the default. The value “automatic” is set. Each default value ("auto color", "normal", "automatic") is shown in the center of each button 212-214.

  Further, the buttons 211 to 214 are adjusted and arranged at appropriate positions according to the position designated by the user. Specifically, each of the buttons 211 to 214 is arranged at the nearest reference position among a plurality of reference positions (X, Y) for button arrangement (for parts arrangement) in accordance with a rough position designation by the user. For example, the Y-direction positions of a plurality of reference positions (X, Y) are fixed at a predetermined value (Y = 800), and the X-direction positions are integer multiples (N times; N = 1; for example, 110 pixels). , 2, 3,...) Is added to a reference value (for example, 50).

  In such a panel customization operation, the user UB can also delete the panel parts once arranged by a deletion operation. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, the user UB presses and holds the panel part “density” to be deleted to display a deletion dialog screen. On the dialog screen, a message “Do you want to delete?” Is displayed, and buttons “Yes” and “No” are displayed. When the user UB presses the “Yes” button, the panel part “Density” is deleted from the customization screen.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram showing registration operation history information related to the customization screen (see FIG. 9) registered in this way. FIG. 11 shows a registration operation history related to an operation menu screen (customized screen) customized for the user UB. Such registered operation history information is stored in the storage unit 5.

  The registered operation history information includes the user name (“user UB”), the number of operation history information (“4”), and the like. Further, the detailed information of the registration operation history includes a panel ID (part name), an arrangement position, a size, and the like of each panel part.

  Similarly, other users UC, UD, etc. can perform similar customization operations. In addition, in accordance with each customization operation, a registration operation history related to an operation menu screen (customization screen) customized for each user is also stored in the storage unit 5. For example, FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating registration operation history information related to the customization screen for the user UC.

<Registration operation by a specific user (UA) (Diversion registration operation)>
Next, a registration operation for a specific user UA, more specifically, a customization screen registration operation for the user UA will be described. It is assumed that the user UA has not yet registered the customization screen for himself / herself in the image forming apparatus 10. Below, the case where the customization screen for user UA is produced | generated using the registration operation log | history of two other users UB and UC is mainly demonstrated.

  First, after the user UA logs in to the image forming apparatus 10, the user UA performs a predetermined operation to display the setting screen 101 in FIG. 3, and among the plurality of options included in the setting screen 101, “3. Select “Panel customization settings (Diversion)”. In response to this selection operation, an operation for customizing and registering a menu screen (also referred to as a menu operation screen) for the user UA by diverting another existing customization screen is executed as follows.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an operation screen 300 (301) for designating a diversion target registration operation history. This operation screen 301 is displayed on the touch panel 25 in accordance with a selection operation of “3. Panel customization setting (diversion)”. On the operation screen 301, buttons for selecting (designating) registration operation histories of a plurality of users UA, UB, UC, and UD are listed in the vertical direction on the left side of the screen.

  The user UA uses the operation screen 301 or the like to specify a registration operation history to be diverted from among the registration operation histories of a plurality of (in this case, four) users UA, UB, UC, and UD.

  Here, first, it is assumed that the user UA's registration operation history selection button is pressed by the user UA, and the registration operation history of the user UB is designated by the user UA as the diversion target registration operation history.

  In response to this designation operation, the acquisition unit 14 acquires the registration operation history (FIG. 11) of the user UB from the storage unit 5. Then, an operation screen 330 (331 to 335, etc.) as shown in FIGS. 18 to 22 is displayed on the touch panel 25. On the operation screen 330, the registration operation history of the user UB is displayed in a moving image manner. Specifically, a plurality of still images are sequentially switched and displayed every predetermined period T1 (for example, 5 seconds) in a portion on the left side of the center in the operation screen 330.

  Specifically, first, as shown in the operation screen 331 of FIG. 18, a registration screen 220 (221) (see FIG. 4) in which no buttons (panel parts) are yet arranged is displayed for a predetermined period T1 (for example, 5 seconds). ). Next, as shown in the operation screen 332 of FIG. 19, a registration screen 223 (see FIG. 6) on which buttons 211 (panel parts “document image quality”) are arranged is displayed over a predetermined period T1. Further, as shown in the operation screen 333 of FIG. 20, a registration screen 224 (see FIG. 7) on which buttons 212 (panel parts “color”) are further arranged is displayed over a predetermined period T1. Furthermore, as shown in the operation screen 334 of FIG. 21, a registration screen 225 (see FIG. 8) in which buttons 213 (panel parts “density”) are further arranged is displayed over a predetermined period T1. Finally, as shown in the operation screen 335 of FIG. 22, a registration screen 226 (see FIG. 9) on which buttons 214 (panel parts “paper”) are further arranged is displayed over a predetermined period T1.

  In this way, the registration operation history in which a plurality of panel parts are sequentially arranged in the customization screen is shown in a moving image manner.

  In addition, when the user UA presses the enter button 312 at an appropriate timing during the display in such a moving image mode, the diversion range in the registration operation history of the user UB is designated. Specifically, the start position (start point) of the diversion range is designated in response to the first pressing operation of the decision button 312, and the end position (end point) of the diversion range in response to the second pressing operation of the decision button 312. ) Is specified. In addition, the diversion range is determined according to the third pressing operation of the determination button 312.

  More specifically, for example, when the determination button 312 is first pressed while the operation screen 331 in FIG. 18 is being displayed (during the display period), this time (in other words, the time immediately before the button 211 is arranged) is displayed. , It is designated as the start position (start point) of the diversion range of the panel customization registration operation relating to the user UB. In FIG. 18, the start position of the diversion range is indicated by a start mark 313 having a triangular shape.

  In addition, when the second determination button 312 is pressed while the operation screen 334 of FIG. 21 is being displayed (during the display period), this time (in other words, the time immediately after the button 213 is arranged) is the user UB. Is specified as the end position (end point) of the diversion range of the panel customization registration operation. In FIG. 21, the end position of the diversion range is indicated by an end mark 314 having a triangular shape.

  Here, the image display according to the moving image mode as described above is changed by the reproduction controller 319. Specifically, rewind display and fast forward display can be performed in response to pressing operations of the rewind button 315 and fast forward button 316, respectively. In addition, each time the playback / pause button 317 is pressed, pause and playback restart can be performed sequentially. The progress bar 311 indicates the current position (reproduction position) in the entire registration operation history to be referred (here, the registration operation history of the user UB).

  Further, the start mark 313 and the end mark 314 are respectively slidable in the left-right direction. The user UA can change the start position and the end position related to the diversion range, respectively, by an operation (slide operation) for moving the start mark 313 and the end mark 314 to appropriate positions.

  Thereafter, the diversion range is determined according to the third pressing operation of the determination button 312. For example, as shown in FIG. 21, a time range including the placement times of the three buttons 211, 212, and 213 (in other words, an operation history range including the placement operation of the three buttons) is set as the “diversion range”. Confirmed.

  In this way, when the designation input relating to the end position and the end position regarding the diversion range is received and the diversion range is determined, the diversion range corresponds to the diversion range among the plurality of registration contents included in the registration operation history of the user UB. The registered content (the diverted registered content) is extracted from the registration operation history.

  Specifically, the extraction unit 15 performs the above operation among a plurality of registration contents (four registration contents No. 1 to No. 4) included in the registration operation history (see FIG. 11) of the user UB. Part of registered contents (registered registration contents) (registered contents surrounded by a broken line in FIG. 11) corresponding to the specified diversion range is extracted from the registration operation history. Specifically, no. 1-No. 3 registration contents (in other words, the registration contents relating to the three buttons 211 to 213 (that is, the three panel parts “original image quality”, “color”, and “density”)) are extracted.

  Further, the generation unit 16 tentatively generates registration contents for the user UA by using the diversion registration contents. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a data table that defines registration contents for the user UA. The data table describes that the registration operation history (file ID “0000002”) of the user UB is used. It should be noted that the registration operation history information as shown in FIG. 11 is described in the file with the file ID “0000002”. The data table also describes the diversion range (diversion registration content). For example, no. 1-No. 3 describes that the three registration contents (see FIG. 11) are the diversion registration contents.

  Thereafter, the operation screen 300 (302) (FIG. 23) is displayed on the touch panel 25. This operation screen 302 is an operation screen for selecting a registration operation history of the next diversion target.

  On the operation screen 302, it is also possible to confirm a new registration operation history at the present time. In the lowermost part of the operation screen 302, between the rounded rectangle 321 indicating “start” and the rounded rectangle 329 indicating “end”, the diversion registration content “Diversion 1” by the above operation is displayed. A rectangle 323 is arranged. Specifically, a white circle 322, a rectangle 323 (“Diversion 1”), and a white circle 324 are arranged in this order between the rounded rectangles 321 and 329.

  Further, in response to pressing of a white circle 324 arranged between the rectangle 323 (“Divert 1”) and the rounded rectangle 329 (“End”), the customization screen after diversion of the registration operation history related to the user UB ( A preview image 341 of a customized screen after diversion for the user UA is displayed on the right side of the center of the screen (see FIG. 23). The user UA can also confirm the contents of the customization screen at this time by using the preview image 341. Note that the preview image 341 may be displayed before the white circle is pressed.

  Then, using this operation screen 302, a further diversion target registration operation history is designated. In other words, an instruction to add a registration operation history to be diverted is accepted using the operation screen 302. On the left side of the operation screen 302, buttons for further selecting registration operation histories of a plurality of users UA, UB, UC, and UD are listed in the vertical direction on the left side of the screen.

  In the following, a button for further selecting the registration operation history of the user UC (“User UC history” button) is pressed, and the registration operation history of the user UC is designated as a further diversion target (addition target). As the explanation continues.

  In response to this designation operation, the acquisition unit 14 acquires the registration operation history (FIG. 12) of the user UC from the storage unit 5. Then, an operation screen 350 (351 or the like) as shown in FIG.

  The registration operation history of the user UC is also displayed on the operation screen 350 in a moving image manner. During display in the moving image mode, a designation input for designating the start position and end position of the diversion range related to the registration operation history of the user UC is accepted. The user UA uses the operation screen 350 to specify the start position and end position of the diversion range regarding the registration operation history of the user UC. In FIG. 24, the range including the arrangement time point of the third and fourth buttons from the left in the customization screen of the user UC (that is, panel parts “magnification”, “double-sided / page aggregation”) is designated as the diversion range. Has been.

  And extraction part 15 was specified as mentioned above among a plurality of registration contents (5 registration contents of No. 1-No. 5) included in registration operation history (refer to Drawing 12) of user UC. A part of registration contents (appropriation registration contents) corresponding to the diversion range (registration contents surrounded by a broken line in FIG. 12) is extracted from the registration operation history. Specifically, no. 3-No. 4 is extracted (in other words, registered contents relating to panel parts of “magnification” and “double-sided / page aggregation”). Thus, the diversion registration content (new diversion registration content) regarding the new registration operation history (user UC registration operation history) designated as the addition target in the addition instruction is extracted from the new registration operation history.

  The generation unit 16 also generates (updates) registration content for the user UA by using the extracted new diversion registration content. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating how the data table in FIG. 14 is updated. In the data table of FIG. 15, the fact that the user UC's registration operation history (file ID “0000003”) is also used and the two registration contents “No. 3 to No. 4” (see FIG. 12) are diverted. It is stated that it is registered. Note that registration operation history information as shown in FIG. 12 is described in the file with the file ID “0000003”. Based on such a data table or the like, the generation unit 16 generates (updates) a customized screen for the user UA.

  Here, as can be seen by comparing FIG. 22 and FIG. 24, the two panel parts selected in FIG. 24 (“magnification” and “both sides / page aggregation”) are the third and fourth from the left in the screen. It is arranged at the second reference position (for parts arrangement) (see also FIG. 26). In FIG. 22, since three panel parts have already been selected, when the two panel parts selected in FIG. 24 are arranged in their original designated positions, the third panel part from the left in FIG. “Density” and the panel part “magnification” arranged third from the left in FIG.

  In this embodiment, when the arrangement positions of a plurality of setting items (here, panel parts) included in a plurality of diversion registration contents overlap in the customization screen, the generation unit 16 uses the specified diversion order by the user UA. Based on this, priority among the plurality of setting items is determined. And the production | generation part 16 adjusts the arrangement position of the said several setting item based on the said priority, produces | generates the new registration content, and produces | generates the customization screen for user UA.

  Specifically, the generation unit 16 determines the priority among the plurality of setting items based on the fact that the registration operation history related to the user UB and the registration operation history related to the user UC are specified by the user UA in this order. To decide. Specifically, the arrangement position of the three panel parts related to the registration operation history related to the user UB has the highest priority, and the arrangement position of the two panel parts related to the registration operation history related to the user UC has the priority of the next order. It is decided to have it.

  Based on such priorities, the generation unit 16 first places three panel parts (panel parts having the highest priority) related to the registration operation history related to the user UB on the customization screen. Specifically, the three panel parts (“original image quality”, “color”, “density”) are arranged at the first to third reference positions (for part arrangement) (in order from the left), respectively.

  Next, the generation unit 16 converts two panel parts (“magnification” and “double-sided / page aggregation”) (panel parts having the next priority) in the customization screen into the registration operation history related to the user UC. Arrange appropriately in the non-arranged area (button non-arranged area). Specifically, the panel part “Magnification” is placed at the fourth reference position (for parts placement) from the left, and the panel part “Double-sided / Page aggregation” is placed at the fifth reference position (for parts placement) from the left. (See also FIGS. 26 and 27). In this way, the generation unit 16 adjusts the arrangement positions of the plurality of setting items based on the above-described priority order to generate new registration contents, and displays a customization screen for the user UA (see FIG. 27). Generate. FIG. 27 is a diagram showing a customization screen for the user UA generated in this way.

  Thereafter, an operation screen 300 (303) (FIG. 25) is displayed on the touch panel 25.

  On the operation screen 303, a plurality of graphics respectively indicating a plurality of registered operation histories are arranged and displayed along a diversion order along a predetermined direction (here, the horizontal direction). Specifically, at the bottom of the operation screen 303, the diversion registration content “Diversion 1” between the rounded rectangle 321 indicating “start” and the rounded rectangle 329 indicating “end”. And a rectangle 325 indicating the diversion registration content “Diversion 2” by the above operation are arranged in this order in the horizontal direction. Specifically, the white circle 322, the rectangle 323 ("Divert 1"), the white circle 324, the rectangle 325 ("Diversion 2"), and the white circle 326 are horizontally arranged in this order between the rounded rectangles 321 and 329. Is arranged. In particular, a rectangle 323 (“Diversion 1”) and a rectangle 325 (“Diversion 2”) are displayed in this order, that is, the same order as the diversion order (combination order) of a plurality of diversion registration contents. Therefore, the user UA can easily recognize the diversion order of a plurality of diversion registration contents.

  In addition, in response to a pressing operation performed on each point (white circles 322, 324, 326) before and after the plurality of figures 323, 325, registration contents using the registration operation history up to each point are displayed. Specifically, when the white circles 322, 324, and 326 are pressed, preview images at the time corresponding to the white circles 322, 324, and 326 (preview images of customization screens for the user UA) are displayed. It is displayed near the center right side of 303. The user UA can confirm the content of the customization screen by the preview image relating to the new registration content. For example, a preview image 342 as shown in FIG. 25 is displayed in response to pressing a white circle 326 arranged between a rectangle 325 (“Divert 2”) and a rounded rectangle 329 (“End”). The With this preview image 342, it is possible to confirm the contents of the customization screen (final customization screen) after diversion of the registration operation history related to the users UB and UC. Further, by pressing a white circle 324 arranged between the rectangle 323 (“Diversion 1”) and the rectangle 325 (“Diversion 2”), a customization screen (“Diversion”) for the registration operation history related only to the user UB. It is also possible to confirm the content of the customization screen that uses only “1”.

  By the operation as described above, it is possible to perform processing (insertion processing or addition processing) for inserting (adding) another existing registration operation history into the existing registration operation history. In particular, it is also possible to specify the insertion position (additional one) of the registration operation history to be used by accompanying a white circle designation operation. For example, the user UA can perform an operation of pressing a “user UD history” button immediately after the white circle 324 is pressed and the insertion position is designated. In response to this, the generation unit 16 creates a new diversion portion between “Diversion 1” (diversion portion of the registration operation history of the user UB) and “Diversion 2” (diversion portion of the registration operation history of the user UC). (Diversion part of the registration operation history of the user UD) is inserted, and new registration contents for the user UA are updated (generated). Further, by using a designation screen similar to that shown in FIG. 24 and the like, a diversion range related to the registration operation history of the user UD is designated. As a result, a data table or the like as shown in FIG. 16 is generated, and a customized screen for the user UA that uses the registration operation history of the users UB, UD, and UC is generated (updated).

  In addition, on the operation screen 300 (303) (FIG. 25), an instruction to delete the registration operation history to be diverted is also accepted. Specifically, when an operation of dragging and dropping a rectangular portion (for example, rectangle 325 (“Diversion 2”)) corresponding to the registration operation history to be deleted is performed on the trash box 398 in the operation screen 303, the deletion target It is assumed that a deletion instruction regarding the registered operation history is given. Then, based on the deletion instruction, the generation unit 16 deletes the diversion registration content related to the registration operation history to be deleted from the new registration content. In this way, the diversion cancellation operation for the registration operation history can also be performed.

  In addition, the operation screen 300 (303) (FIG. 25) also accepts a diversion order replacement instruction for a plurality of registered operation histories. Specifically, when an operation of dragging and dropping a rectangular portion (for example, rectangle 325 (“Diverted 2”)) corresponding to the registration operation history of the replacement operation target in the operation screen 303 to the position of the white circle 322 is performed, the replacement is performed. Instructions are considered given. Then, based on the replacement instruction, the generation unit 16 switches the diversion order regarding a plurality of registration operation histories (“Diversion 1” and “Diversion 2”) to generate new registration contents. More specifically, a new customization screen in which “Diversion 2” (the diversion part of the registration operation history of the user UC) and “Diversion 1” (diversion part of the registration operation history of the user UB) are diverted in this order is displayed. Generate. Specifically, a data table or the like as shown in FIG. 17 is generated, and a customization screen for the user UA is generated (updated).

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing such an operation. When a predetermined operation is accepted on the screen 303 (step S11), a branch process is executed according to the instruction content based on the operation (step S12). When the addition instruction is given, the above-described addition process is executed in step S21. If a deletion instruction is given, the above-described deletion process is executed in step S22. When a replacement instruction is given, the replacement process described above is executed in step S23.

  Thereafter, when the customization completion button 399 is pressed, the content of the customization process for the user UA is confirmed, and the customization process is completed. For example, when the customization completion button 399 is pressed in the state of FIG. 25, a customization screen for the user UA as shown in FIG. 27 is generated, and the customization process is completed.

  As described above, according to the embodiment, the diversion range in the existing registration operation history related to the predetermined registration operation is designated by the user UA, and the diversion range corresponds to the diversion range among the plurality of registration contents included in the registration operation history. The registered content (the diverted registration content) to be extracted is extracted from the registration operation history. And the new registration content regarding the customization screen for the user UA is generated by using the diversion registration content. Therefore, new registration in a predetermined registration operation can be performed flexibly and efficiently by using a desired diversion range (particularly, part of registration contents) in the existing registration operation history.

  In addition, since a new registration content is generated by combining a plurality of diversion registration contents respectively extracted from a plurality of registration operation histories (a plurality of registration operation histories related to the users UB and UC), a plurality of registration operation histories are used. Thus, new registration contents can be generated very flexibly and efficiently.

  In addition, each registered operation history is displayed in a moving image mode, and a start position and an end position of the diversion range are designated along with the display in the moving image mode (during display in a moving image mode, etc.). So intuitive operation is possible.

  In the above embodiment, when the arrangement positions of a plurality of setting items (panel parts) included in a plurality of diversion registration contents are duplicated in the customization screen, the arrangement is performed based on the designated diversion order by the user UA. An example is shown in which priorities among a plurality of setting items are determined, new registration contents are generated, and a customization screen for the user is generated. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in the same case, based on the usage frequency (more specifically, a data table storing the usage frequency) of the plurality of setting items (panel parts, etc.) The ranking may be determined, new registration contents may be generated, and a customized screen for the user may be generated.

  FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating a data table indicating the usage frequencies of a plurality of setting items. In FIG. 29, the usage frequency of “density” is “150 times”, the usage frequency of “magnification” is “120 times”, and the usage frequency of “double-sided / (page) aggregation” is “50 times”. . Based on such usage frequency, it is only necessary to determine that “density” has a higher priority than “magnification”. Similarly, it is only necessary to determine that “magnification” has a higher priority than “double-sided / (page) aggregation”. The usage frequency of the plurality of setting items may be a usage frequency for each image forming apparatus or a usage frequency for each user.

  Moreover, in the above, although the mode by which each button is arrange | positioned with respect to the nearest and unarranged reference position among the several reference positions for part arrangement | positioning is illustrated, it is not limited to this. For example, the button arrangement position may be determined in units of one pixel in accordance with the pressing position in the pressing operation by the user.

  Moreover, in the above, although the aspect which diverts the existing registration operation history by another user at the time of the production | generation of the customization screen for a certain user is illustrated, it is not limited to this. For example, when a customized screen for a certain user is generated, an existing registration operation history (past registration operation history) by the same user may be used.

<2. Second Embodiment>
<Overview>
The second embodiment is a modification of the first embodiment. Below, it demonstrates centering on difference with 1st Embodiment.

  In the first embodiment, the technique capable of flexibly and efficiently performing the operation (registration operation) for registering the customization screen for each user in the image forming apparatus 10 has been exemplified. On the other hand, this second embodiment exemplifies a technique that can flexibly and efficiently perform an operation (registration operation) of registering a plurality of setting contents in advance in the image forming apparatus 10.

  More specifically, when registering a certain program memory related to the copy process, a registration operation history of another existing program memory other than the program memory is acquired. Then, new registration contents relating to a certain program memory are generated based on the diversion registration contents extracted from the registration operation history of the other program memory.

<Pre-registration operation of program memory ("registration 1" and "registration 2")>
In this embodiment, a new registration for a program memory is made by combining a plurality of diversion registration contents respectively extracted from a plurality of registration operation histories (specifically, a plurality of existing program memory registration operation histories). A mode in which contents are generated will be described. Specifically, registration operation histories of a plurality of existing program memories (“registration 1” and “registration 2”) are acquired, and based on the diversion registration contents extracted from the registration operation histories of the plurality of existing program memories. A new program memory “registration 3” is generated.

  However, in the following, a registration operation performed prior to a registration operation of a new program memory “registration 3”, more specifically, a registration operation of a plurality of program memories (“registration 1” and “registration 2”). First, I will explain.

  FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating a data table that defines default values for various settings in the copy process. The data table is stored in the storage unit 5. As shown in FIG. 30, “character” is set as the setting content of the setting item “image quality” in the initial state (default state). Similarly, “auto color” is set as the setting content of the setting item “color mode”, and “normal” is set as the setting content of the setting item “density”. Default values are also set for various other setting items.

  In the image forming apparatus 10 according to the second embodiment, after changing a setting value relating to one or a plurality of setting items from a default value to another value, the changed one or more setting values (setting contents) are changed to “ It can be stored in a “program memory”. For example, the setting item “Image quality” is changed from “Text” to “Photo”, and the setting item “Color mode” is changed from “Auto color” to “Full color”. The setting content of “density” is changed from “normal” to “dark (+2)”, and the combination of the setting contents after the change is registered in the program memory “registration 1”. The user can easily execute the copy processing based on these setting contents by calling the program memory “registration 1”.

  First, the registration operation of the program memory “registration 1” will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 34 is a view showing the “original image quality” setting screen 520 (521) in the copy process, and FIG. 35 is a view showing the “color” setting screen 520 (522) in the copy process. FIG. 36 is a diagram showing a setting screen 520 (524) for selecting a registration destination of setting contents after the setting is changed.

  In the program memory registration mode relating to copy processing, when the user presses the “original image quality” setting button on the menu screen, as shown in FIG. 34, a setting screen 520 (521) including a plurality of options relating to the “original image quality” setting is displayed on the touch panel. 25. The user selects a desired option (for example, “photo”) from a plurality of options and presses an OK button. In response to this, the setting content of the setting item “original image quality” is changed to “photo”.

  When the user presses the “color” setting button on the menu screen, a setting screen 520 (522) including a plurality of options related to the “color” setting is displayed on the touch panel 25 as shown in FIG. The user selects a desired option (for example, “full color”) from a plurality of options and presses an OK button. In response to this, the setting content of the setting item “color” is changed to “full color”.

  Similarly, when the user presses the “density” setting button on the menu screen, a setting screen 520 (523) (not shown) including a plurality of options related to the “density” setting is displayed on the touch panel 25. Using the setting screen 523, the user changes the setting content of the setting item “density” to “+2”.

  Thereafter, the user presses a predetermined hardware key (“program registration key”) (not shown) provided on the operation panel unit 6c. In response to the pressing, the image forming apparatus 10 displays a setting screen 520 (524) (FIG. 36) on the touch panel 25 for selecting a registration destination of the setting content after the setting change. When the user presses the top (upper left) rectangle (the shaded portion in the figure) among the plurality of registration destination candidate rectangles displayed on the setting screen 524, the above-described one set of setting contents is registered in the rectangle. A registered name “registration 1” is assigned to a set of setting contents.

  In this way, a combination of these setting contents (“original image quality” = “photo”, “color mode” = “full color”, “density” = “dark (+2)”) is registered in the program memory “registration 1”. Is done.

  Such a registration operation history is stored in the storage unit 5 as registration operation history information as shown in FIG. The registered operation history information includes the program ID (“0001”), the registered name (“Registered 1”), the number of operation history information (“3”), and the like. Further, the detailed information of the registered operation history includes a setting item ID (setting item name) and a setting value regarding each setting item.

  Thereafter, the registration operation of the program memory “registration 2” is performed in the same manner. As a result, the combination of the setting contents after the registration operation (“magnification” = “50%”, “duplex / page aggregation” = “(single side>) double side”) is registered in the program memory “registration 2”.

  Such a registration operation history is stored in the storage unit 5 as registration operation history information as shown in FIG.

<Registration operation of new program memory “Registration 3” (Diversion registration operation)>
Next, the registration operation of the new program memory “registration 3” will be described. In the following, a case where a new program memory “Registration 3” is generated by diverting the registration operation history of the existing program memories “Registration 1” and “Registration 2” will be described.

  First, when a user performs a predetermined operation (for example, an operation of continuously pressing a “program registration key” twice), an operation of registering a new program memory using an existing program memory is started.

  Specifically, in response to a predetermined operation, an operation screen 600 (601) as shown in FIG.

  The operation screen 601 lists buttons for selecting registered operation histories in a plurality of program memories. In FIG. 37, a total of 12 selection buttons are arranged in a matrix (specifically, three columns in the horizontal direction and four rows in the vertical direction).

  The user uses the operation screen 601 or the like to specify a diversion target registration operation history from a plurality of program memories.

  Here, it is assumed that the registration operation history selection button in the program memory “registration 1” is first pressed by the user, and the registration operation history in the program memory “registration 1” is designated as the registration operation history to be diverted. .

  In response to this designation operation, the acquisition unit 14 acquires the registration operation history (FIG. 31) of the program memory “registration 1” from the storage unit 5. Then, an operation screen 630 (see FIG. 38 and the like) is displayed on the touch panel 25. On the operation screen 630, the registration operation history of the program memory “registration 1” is displayed in a moving image manner. Specifically, a plurality of still images are sequentially switched and displayed every predetermined period T1 (for example, 5 seconds) in the left center 681 of the operation screen 630.

  Specifically, in this portion 681, a screen showing an initial menu screen is displayed first, and then a setting screen 521 for setting the setting content of the setting item “original image quality” to “photograph” (see FIG. 34). Is displayed. Further, a setting screen 522 (see FIG. 35) for setting the setting item “color” to “full color” is displayed, and thereafter, the setting item “density” is set to “dark (+2)”. A screen is displayed.

  In this way, the registration operation history related to a plurality of setting contents is shown in a moving image manner.

  In addition, when the user presses the enter button 612 at an appropriate timing during the display in such a moving image mode, the diversion range in the registration operation history of each program memory is designated. Specifically, the start position (start time) of the diversion range is designated in response to the first pressing operation of the decision button 612, and the end position (end time) of the diversion range in response to the second pressing operation of the decision button 612. ) Is specified. Further, the diversion range is determined according to the third pressing operation of the determination button 612. The designation operation is performed in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

  Here, the image display according to the moving image mode as described above is changed by the reproduction controller 619. Specifically, rewind display and fast forward display can be performed in response to pressing operations of the rewind button 615 and fast forward button 616, respectively. In addition, each time the playback / pause button 617 is pressed, pause and playback restart can be performed sequentially. A progress bar 611 indicates the current position (playback position) in the entire registration operation history to be referred to.

  In addition, the start mark 613 and the end mark 614 are respectively slidable in the left-right direction. The user can also change the start position and the end position related to the diversion range by moving the start mark 613 and the end mark 614 to appropriate positions, respectively.

  In FIG. 38, a start mark 613 is displayed at the position where the initial menu screen is displayed, and the end mark 614 is displayed at the position where the second setting change (“color” = “full color”) screen is displayed. Is displayed. In other words, a range including two setting changes (“original image quality” = “photo” and “color” = “full color”) is designated as the diversion range.

  In this way, when the designation input relating to the end position and the end position regarding the diversion range is received and the diversion range is determined, the diversion range corresponds to the diversion range among the plurality of registration contents included in the registration operation history of the program memory. The registered content (the diverted registered content) is extracted from the registration operation history.

  Specifically, the extraction unit 15 includes the above-described registration contents (three registration contents No. 1 to No. 3) included in the registration operation history (see FIG. 31) of the program memory “registration 1”. In this way, a part of registered content (registered registration content) (registered content surrounded by a broken line in FIG. 31) corresponding to the diversion range designated is extracted from the registration operation history. Specifically, no. 1-No. The registration contents relating to the two setting changes (in other words, the setting item “image quality” = “photo” and the setting item “color” = “full color”) are extracted.

  Further, the generation unit 16 tentatively generates new program memory registration contents by using the diversion registration contents.

  Thereafter, an operation screen 600 (602) (FIG. 39) is displayed on the touch panel 25.

  Using this operation screen 602, a further diversion target registration operation history is designated. In other words, an instruction to add a registered operation history to be diverted is accepted using the operation screen 602. On the operation screen 602, buttons for further selecting registered operation histories in a plurality of program memories are arranged in a matrix.

  In the following, it is assumed that a button for further selecting a registration operation history in the program memory “registration 2” is pressed and the registration operation history in the program memory “registration 2” is designated as a further diversion target (addition target). Continue the explanation.

  In response to this designation operation, the acquisition unit 14 acquires the registration operation history (FIG. 32) of the program memory “registration 2” from the storage unit 5. Then, an operation screen 650 or the like showing the registered operation history is displayed on the touch panel 25 in a moving image manner (see FIG. 40).

  The registration operation history of the program memory “registration 2” is also displayed on the operation screen 650 in a moving image manner. During display in the moving image mode, designation input for designating the start position and end position of the diversion range related to the registration operation history in the program memory “registration 2” is accepted. Using the operation screen 650 and the like, the user designates the start position and end position of the diversion range related to the registration operation history in the program memory “registration 2”. In FIG. 40, a range including both of two setting changes (ie, “magnification” = “50%”, “double-sided / page integration” = “(single side>) double-sided”) is designated as a diversion range.

  Then, the extracting unit 15 performs the above operation among a plurality of registration contents (two registration contents No. 1 and No. 2) included in the registration operation history (see FIG. 32) of the program memory “registration 2”. Then, the registration contents (registration registration contents) corresponding to the designated diversion range (registration contents surrounded by a broken line in FIG. 32) are extracted from the registration operation history. Here, all of the registration contents included in the registration operation history of “Registration 2” are designated as “Diversion range” and extracted from the registration operation history as “Diversion registration contents” And Specifically, no. 1-No. 2 registration contents (ie, “magnification” = “50%”, “double-sided / page aggregation” = “(single side>) double-sided”) are extracted. As described above, the diversion registration content (new diversion registration content) related to the new registration operation history (registration operation history of the program memory “registration 2”) designated as the addition target in the addition instruction is obtained from the new registration operation history. Extracted.

  The generation unit 16 also generates (updates) the registration content for the user UA in the new program memory “registration 3” using the extracted new diversion registration content.

  Thereafter, an operation screen 600 (603) (FIG. 41) is displayed on the touch panel 25.

  When the customization completion button 699 in the operation screen 603 is pressed, an operation screen 600 (604) (FIG. 42) is displayed on the touch panel 25. The operation screen 604 is a screen for designating a new program memory registration destination by diversion. For example, by pressing the third button from the left at the top of the operation screen 604 and pressing the “Register” button at the lower right of the operation screen 604, the program memory “Registration 3” is determined as the registration destination. The As a result, the new contents relating to the combination of the registration operation history in the program memory “registration 1” and the registration operation history in the program memory “registration 2” as described above are registered as the program memory “registration 3”.

  FIG. 33 is a diagram showing a data table that defines the registration contents of the program memory “registration 3”. The data table includes a registration operation history (file ID “0000001”) of the program memory “registration 1” (program ID = 0001) (see FIG. 31) and a program memory “registration 2” (program ID = 0002) (see FIG. 31). 32) is used for registration operation history (file ID “0000002”). In addition, two registration contents “No. 1 to No. 2” of the program memory “registration 1” are used as diversion registration contents, and “No. 1 to No. 2” of the program memory “registration 2” are used. It also describes that two registered contents are used as diverted registration contents.

  In addition, on the operation screen 602 (FIG. 39) and the operation screen 603 (FIG. 41), it is also possible to confirm new registration contents and the like.

  For example, at the bottom of the operation screen 603 (FIG. 41), there are a white circle 622, a rectangle between a rounded rectangle 621 indicating “start (start)” and a rounded rectangle 629 indicating “end” (end). 623 (“Diversion 1”), white circle 624, rectangle 625 (“Diversion 2”), and white circle 626 are arranged in this order. In particular, a rectangle 623 (“Diversion 1”) and a rectangle 625 (“Diversion 2”) are displayed in this order, that is, the same order as the diversion order (combination order) of a plurality of diversion registration contents. Therefore, the user UA can easily recognize the diversion order of a plurality of diversion registration contents.

  In addition, in response to pressing of each of the white circles 622, 624, 626, an image indicating the registration contents at the time corresponding to each of the white circles 622, 624, 626 (an image indicating the contents of the program memory “registration 3”) ) Is displayed.

  For example, in response to pressing of the white arrow 626, a tabular image 692 is displayed (see FIG. 43). The image 692 includes two registration contents of “No. 1 to No. 2” in the program memory “registration 1” (see FIG. 31) and two of “No. 1 to No. 2” in the program memory “registration 2”. It is an image which shows a total of four registration content (appropriate registration content) with registration content (refer FIG. 32) in a table format. FIG. 43 is a diagram showing a state in which an image 692 is pop-up displayed on the operation screen 603.

  Similarly, in response to pressing of the white arrow 624, two registration contents (see FIG. 31) of “No. 1 to No. 2” of the program memory “registration 1” are displayed as tabular images (not shown). The

  Further, “insertion”, “deletion”, and “replacement” processing relating to the existing registration operation history are also performed in the same manner as in the first embodiment. For example, the “deletion” process is performed by performing the same operation operation as in the first embodiment using the trash can 698 in the operation screen 603.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, the diversion range in the (existing) registration operation history related to the predetermined registration operation is designated, and the diversion range is included in the registration contents included in the registration operation history. Corresponding registration contents (diversion registration contents) are extracted from the registration operation history. Then, new registration contents relating to the new program memory “registration 3” are generated by using the diversion registration contents. Therefore, new registration in a predetermined registration operation can be performed flexibly and efficiently by using a desired diversion range (particularly, part of registration contents) in the existing registration operation history.

  Also, new registration contents are generated by combining a plurality of diversion registration contents respectively extracted from a plurality of registration operation histories (a plurality of registration operation histories (“registration 1”, “registration 2”) relating to the program memory). Therefore, new registration contents can be generated very flexibly and efficiently using a plurality of registration operation histories.

  In addition, each registered operation history is displayed in a moving image mode, and a start position and an end position of the diversion range are designated along with the display in the moving image mode (during display in a moving image mode, etc.). So intuitive operation is possible.

<3. Modified example>
Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the contents described above.

  For example, in the second embodiment, an aspect in which the idea of the present invention is applied to registration of a program memory related to copy processing is exemplified, but the present invention is not limited to this, and registration of program memory related to scan processing, etc. You may make it apply the thought of this invention.

  Further, in the first embodiment, by combining a plurality of diversion registration contents respectively extracted from a plurality of registration operation histories (for example, a plurality of customization registration operation histories by the users UB and UC) Although the aspect which a customization screen is produced | generated is illustrated, it is not limited to this. For example, based on only a single diversion registration content (more specifically, a registration content corresponding to a diversion range specified by the user UA) extracted from a single registration operation history of another user UB, a certain user A customization screen for UA may be generated.

  The same applies to the second embodiment. For example, based on only a single diversion registration content (registration content corresponding to the diversion range of the single program memory “registration 1”) extracted from the registration operation history related to the single program memory registration, a new program memory “Registration 4” may be generated.

  Further, in the first embodiment, a part of the registration contents included in the registration operation history of another user is extracted from the registration operation history as the diversion registration contents. It is not limited. For example, all the registered contents among the plurality of registered contents included in the registered operation history may be designated as “diversion range” and extracted from the registered operation history as the diverted registration contents. In particular, all registered contents included in at least one registered operation history among a plurality of registered operation histories may be extracted as diverted registered contents. More specifically, for example, by combining all registration contents included in the registration operation history by the user UB and some registration contents included in the registration operation history by the user UC, a customization screen for a certain user UA is displayed. It may be generated.

6c Operation panel 10 Image forming apparatus (MFP)
25 Touch panel 311,611 Progress bar 312,612 Enter button 313,613 Start mark 314,614 End mark 399,699 Customization complete button

Claims (17)

An acquisition means for acquiring an existing registration operation history related to a predetermined registration operation;
Operation means for accepting designation of a diversion range in the registration operation history;
Extraction means for extracting from the registration operation history the diversion registration content that is the registration content corresponding to the diversion range among the plurality of registration contents included in the registration operation history;
Generation means for generating new registration contents by diverting the diversion registration contents;
With
The extraction unit can extract, as the diversion registration content, a part of the registration content corresponding to the diversion range among a plurality of registration contents included in the registration operation history. apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.
The operation means displays the registration operation history in a moving image mode and accepts a designation input for designating a start position and an end position of the diversion range in accordance with the display in the moving image mode. apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.
The image forming apparatus, wherein the generation unit generates the new registration content by combining a plurality of diversion registration contents respectively extracted from a plurality of registration operation histories. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3.
The image forming apparatus, wherein the operation unit receives designation of a diversion range in each of the plurality of registered operation histories. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3.
The image forming apparatus, wherein the operation unit arranges and displays a plurality of figures respectively indicating the plurality of diversion contents along a diversion order along a predetermined direction. The image forming apparatus according to claim 5.
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the operation unit displays registered contents based on diverted contents up to each point in response to an operation on each point before and after the plurality of figures. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3.
The operation means accepts a diversion order replacement instruction for the plurality of registered operation histories,
The image forming apparatus, wherein the generation unit generates the new registration content by switching the diversion order regarding the plurality of registration operation histories based on the replacement instruction. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3.
The operation means accepts an instruction to add a diversion target registration operation history,
The extraction means extracts new diversion registration contents, which are diversion registration contents related to a new registration operation history specified as an addition target in the addition instruction, from the new registration operation history,
The image forming apparatus, wherein the generation unit generates the new registration content by using the new diversion registration content. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.
The operation means receives an instruction to delete the registered operation history of the diversion target,
The image forming apparatus, wherein the generation unit deletes the diverted registration content related to the registration operation history to be deleted from the new registration content based on the deletion instruction. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined registration operation is a registration operation for registering an operation menu screen customized for each user as a customization screen. The image forming apparatus according to claim 10.
In the case of generating a customized screen for a certain user as the new registration contents by combining a plurality of diversion registration contents respectively extracted from a plurality of registration operation histories, the generation means generates the plurality of diversion registration contents. When the arrangement positions of a plurality of setting items included in the page overlap in the customization screen, the new registration is performed by determining the priority among the plurality of setting items based on the specified diversion order by the user. An image forming apparatus that generates contents and generates a customized screen for the user. The image forming apparatus according to claim 10.
In the case of generating a customized screen for a certain user as the new registration contents by combining a plurality of diversion registration contents respectively extracted from a plurality of registration operation histories, the generation means generates the plurality of diversion registration contents. When the arrangement positions of a plurality of setting items included in the screen overlap in the customization screen, the priority order among the plurality of setting items is determined based on the frequency of use of the plurality of setting items in the image forming apparatus. An image forming apparatus that determines and generates the new registration content and generates a customized screen for the user. The image forming apparatus according to claim 10.
In the case of generating a customized screen for a certain user as the new registration contents by combining a plurality of diversion registration contents respectively extracted from a plurality of registration operation histories, the generation means generates the plurality of diversion registration contents. When the arrangement positions of the plurality of setting items included in the page overlap in the customization screen, the priority order among the plurality of setting items is determined based on the frequency of use of the plurality of setting items by the user. Generating the new registration content and generating a customized screen for the user. The image forming apparatus according to claim 10.
The acquisition means acquires a registration operation history by the second user when generating the customization screen for the first user,
The image forming apparatus, wherein the generation unit generates the customization screen for the first user based on diversion registration contents extracted from a registration operation history by the second user. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined registration operation is a registration operation in which a combination of a plurality of setting contents is registered in advance. The image forming apparatus according to claim 15.
The acquisition unit acquires a registration operation history of another existing program memory other than the first program memory when registering the first program memory,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the generation unit generates the new registration content related to the first program memory based on the diversion registration content extracted from the registration operation history of the other program memory. In the computer built in the image forming device,
a) receiving designation of a diversion range in a registration operation history related to a predetermined registration operation;
b) extracting a diversion registration content that is a registration content corresponding to the diversion range from a plurality of registration contents included in the registration operation history from the registration operation history;
c) diverting the diversion registration content to generate new registration content;
A program for executing
In step b), as the diversion registration content, a part of the registration content corresponding to the diversion range among a plurality of registration contents included in the registration operation history can be extracted.

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