JP2001306204A - User setting sharing system and image processor - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve operability by sharing user setting contents between the same kind or different kinds of image processors. SOLUTION: A setting sharing file 26A in which user setting contents are described is read through a storage medium 24 or a network, and the specification of an operation screen to be displayed on a control panel 20 is customized according to the description of the file 26A by a control panel control part 28. The operation conditions of the device are preset according to the description of the file 26A by a preset executing part 30. The preset contents are reflected on the operation screen Thus, each user is allowed to have the setting sharing file so that it is possible for the user to obtain his or her own desired operation screen even at the time of using any image processor.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] The present invention relates to a system for sharing user settings, and more particularly to customizing operation screen specifications.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art As an image processing apparatus, there are various apparatuses such as a copier, a printer, a facsimile apparatus, a scanner apparatus, and a multifunction machine integrating them. In addition, various models are provided from various companies even for the same copying machine, and the same applies to other image processing apparatuses.

The above-described image processing apparatus generally has an operation panel having a function of displaying an operation screen and a function of accepting a user setting, and a user refers to the operation screen on the operation panel, and By operating virtual buttons displayed on the operation panel, function settings and parameter settings for the device are performed.

[0004] The form of the operation panel itself and the specifications of the operation screen displayed on it may be different even for the same type of device of the same manufacturer, and if the model is different, the operation screen differs between most devices. Is in the current situation. Furthermore, the differences are more pronounced for different manufacturers.

[0005]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Under the circumstances described above, when a user operates a device other than a device to which the user is accustomed, the user feels uneasy about the layout such as the button arrangement on the operation panel and the screen switching method. It is easy to remember and it is easy to cause operational confusion. For example,
Even if you try to perform two-sided copying with a copy device installed in a convenience store, if the copy device is completely different from the device you have used, you may have difficulty finding the button for the desired function. is there.
In recent years, image processing apparatuses have become sophisticated, and the setting of desired printing conditions may be completed only after switching the screen of the operation panel a plurality of times, which further exacerbates the above problem. Incidentally, the setting contents of each user are often limited to about several types personally, and the same operation contents are repeated at the time of using the apparatus.

[0006] The above problems are particularly remarkable in the field of image processing apparatuses as office equipment which have become widespread, but it is considered that there are similar problems in other fields.

Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 6-78094 discloses a configuration in which the contents of an operation panel such as a copying machine can be freely laid out by a user. In particular, the position, shape, size, color, and the like of the operation buttons (keys) can be freely set. However, such customization
This is only for the device.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-346288 discloses a technique in which parameters (scan resolution, scan original type, scan density, etc.) are shared between image processing apparatuses on a network, and the initial setting of each apparatus is automated. Have been. Although there is an advantage that the setting of the device can be easily performed, in the device, only a limited effect of omitting the parameter setting can be expected. That is, customization of an input operation environment for each user, particularly customization of an operation screen (or a user interface) has not been realized. Therefore, it is not possible to solve the problem caused by the difference in the specifications of the operation panel between the devices.

Note that Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-149061 discloses
JP-A-11-224135, JP-A-10-161
No. 823 and Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 8-78094 also disclose related techniques.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned conventional problems, and an object of the present invention is to make it possible to port operability, that is, an input operation environment between devices of the same model or different models.

Another object of the present invention is to construct a user-oriented user interface.

[0012]

Means for Solving the Problems (1) In order to achieve the above object, the present invention is a system for sharing user settings among a plurality of devices on which an operation screen is displayed. Creating means for creating a setting shared file in which user settings are described, storage means for storing the setting shared file, obtaining means for obtaining the setting shared file from the storage means, and the obtained setting shared file And customizing means for customizing the specifications of the operation screen displayed on the second device in accordance with the description of the user setting contents in the above.

According to the above configuration, the user setting contents set for the first device are stored as a setting shared file, and the specification screen of the operation screen of the second device is used on the second device by using the setting shared file. Can be customized. Therefore, the operability of the device can be improved by using the past user settings.

In the above configuration, it is desirable that the device sharing the user settings is office equipment having an operation panel, particularly an image processing apparatus. As an image processing device,
There are various devices such as a copier, a printer, a facsimile device, a scanner device, and a multifunction machine integrating them. When sharing the user setting contents between such image processing apparatuses, for example, information such as setting contents and function setting values related to the specifications of the operation screen is stored in a setting shared file. For example, the concept of the specification of the operation screen includes the form and arrangement of buttons, the content and form of text, the layout such as the background color and the color of each object, the performance (responsiveness) of buttons, the display switching method, and the like. Related to the operating conditions of. In addition, as for the concept of the function possessed by the device, regarding the copying function, double-sided / single-sided printing,
Print density, magnification, paper size, etc. can be increased,
For the facsimile function, the read original size, read resolution, transmission destination, and the like can be given. For the scanner function, the scan area, resolution, storage destination, and the like can be given.

In the above, the creation means can be provided inside or outside the device. Usually, the former is adopted, but an external PC or the like can also be used as the creation means. The storage means can be provided inside or outside any of the devices. In particular, it is desirable to use a portable medium or a file server in order to promote sharing. The acquisition unit is usually provided inside the device, but may be configured as a server existing outside the device. The same applies to customization means,
Usually, it is provided inside the device, but it can be configured as a server existing outside the device. In addition, various examples of the configuration of the system can be given.

According to the present invention, even if the device is used for the first time, for example, the layout of the operation screen and the screen switching method can be customized to a familiar one, so that the operability can be improved. That is, there is an advantage that the operation environment can be ported between devices of the same type but different types, devices of different types, devices of different manufacturers, and the like. Furthermore, according to such customization of the user interface specifications, confusion and confusion at the time of operation can be avoided. Further, it is also possible to automate the initial setting of the function. Thus, a user-oriented device operation can be realized.

(2) Preferably, the setting shared file is created for each user, and the specifications of the operation screen are customized for each user. According to this configuration, the setting shared file is created for each user or user group, and the device can be automatically customized for each user.

Preferably, the customizing means customizes the layout of the operation screen. Preferably, the customizing means further customizes a method of switching operation screens. As described above, the user's operability can be improved by various customizations regarding the specifications of the operation screen.

Preferably, the apparatus further includes presetting means for initializing the function of the second device according to the description of the user setting content in the setting sharing file, and the content of the initial setting is reflected on the operation screen.

If the functions of the device are preset according to the contents set by the user, the trouble associated with the setting operation can be reduced. Since the content of the preset is reflected on the operation screen, the current setting content of the device can be confirmed by referring to the preset, and the setting can be changed if necessary. The button layout may be changed according to conditions such as the frequency of use. In any case, it is desirable that the specifications of the operation screen be the most user-friendly, based on past user setting results.

(2) To achieve the above object,
The present invention is a system for sharing user settings between a plurality of devices of the same model or different models on which an operation screen is displayed, and creates a setting shared file created for each user and including a plurality of pieces of user setting information. Creating means, storing means for storing the setting shared file, obtaining means for obtaining the setting shared file from the storing means, and a target device among a plurality of user setting information in the obtained setting shared file. Based on the function that has, the selection means for selecting user setting information available in the target device, according to the available user setting information,
Customizing means for customizing the specifications of the operation screen of the target device.

According to the above configuration, information usable for setting the target device is specified from the plurality of user setting information stored in the setting sharing file, and the specification of the operation screen is specified by using the information. Customized. According to such a configuration, sharing of the user setting information between different types of devices can be promoted. Therefore, this system is versatile, scalable and flexible.

Preferably, the setting shared file includes priority information defining a priority between a plurality of pieces of user setting information, and the selecting means determines the available user based on the priority information. Selects setting information.

According to the above configuration, when the user setting information cannot be used as it is in the target device, that is, when the function corresponding directly to the user setting information does not exist in the target device, the user setting information of the second order defined according to the priority is displayed. The specified alternative function can be set. Of course, 2nd, 3rd
It is also possible to define a plurality of alternative functions, such as. For example, in a printer that does not have a color printing function, a combination setting of a gray scale of 600 dpi may be performed instead of the color printing. The definition of such an alternative relationship is stored in the user setting shared file as priority information.

Preferably, the apparatus further includes a preset unit for performing initial setting of a function of the target device according to the available user setting information, and the contents of the initial setting are reflected on an operation screen.

Preferably, the preset means has means for performing an initial setting by combining a plurality of functions of the target device in accordance with the available user setting information. In other words, when a certain function cannot be directly realized, it is alternatively realized by a combination of a plurality of functions.

Preferably, the setting sharing file includes setting history information indicating a history of user settings, and the selecting means selects available user setting information based on the setting history information. . Utilizing this setting history information, it is possible to reproduce immediately previous user setting contents or to reproduce past user setting contents relating to a specific purpose.

Preferably, the customizing means customizes the specifications of the operation screen of the device in consideration of the size of the operation screen. The size of the operation panel mounted on each device is not necessarily the same. Therefore,
The specifications of the operation screen are changed according to the size of the operation panel. For example, the button size may be adjusted, or the screen content and the switching method may be changed.

(3) In order to achieve the above object,
An image processing apparatus according to the present invention is configured such that an operation screen is displayed, an operation panel on which user settings are accepted on the operation screen, an obtaining unit that obtains a setting shared file in which user setting contents are described, and the obtained According to the description of the user setting content in the setting shared file, panel control means for controlling an operation screen display operation and a user setting accepting operation for the operation panel, and when the user changes the setting, the content of the setting shared file is changed. Updating means for updating.

Here, when the setting shared file is updated, it may be possible to select an item to be reflected in the setting shared file in the current setting contents. In addition, prior to updating, the user may be asked for confirmation.

Preferably, the setting shared file is stored in a portable storage medium, the obtaining means obtains the setting shared file from the storage medium, and the updating means is configured to store the setting shared file stored in the storage medium. Update the contents of

According to this configuration, the setting shared file can be used by a plurality of devices via the portable recording medium.
In particular, such a recording medium can be provided for each user. As a recording medium, a memory card, a magnetic card, and the like can be used. The obtaining means receives such a recording medium and obtains the user setting shared file stored therein. The updating means executes such updating of the user setting file.

(4) In order to achieve the above object,
The present invention provides a file server storing a setting shared file including user setting information, a device connected to the file server via a network,
Wherein the device includes an operation panel on which an operation screen is displayed and user settings are accepted on the operation screen, an acquisition unit for acquiring a setting shared file provided from the file server, and the acquired setting shared file And customizing means for customizing the specifications of the operation screen of the operation panel according to the user setting information.

According to the above configuration, the setting shared file can be distributed over the network. It is preferable that the configuration shared file be updated from a device or a PC via a network.

Preferably, the file server stores a setting shared file for each user, the device includes a unit for identifying a user who uses the device, and the file server stores the user of the identified user. Means for performing authentication, means for specifying a setting sharing file corresponding to the authenticated user, and means for providing the specified setting sharing file to the device.

According to the above configuration, after the user authentication (for example, password verification) is completed, the setting shared file corresponding to the user is distributed.

[0037] Preferably, the file server stores a setting shared file for each user and is provided with a portable storage medium including user identification information, and the device acquires the user identification information from the storage medium. Means for providing a corresponding setting shared file to the device based on the obtained user identification information.

(5) In order to achieve the above object,
The present invention is a step of creating a file in which the specification of the user interface of the device is described, a step of saving the file in a state that can be shared between a plurality of devices, and a device that has obtained the saved file, Customizing the specifications of the user interface of the device according to the description of the specifications in the file.

(6) In order to achieve the above object,
The present invention is a method for sharing settings between a plurality of devices of different models, wherein a step of creating a settings shared file in which user settings of a first device are described, and a step of saving the settings shared file Selecting a description related to the operation of the second device from among the descriptions in the stored shared file; and performing an initial setting of the operation of the second device according to the selected description.
It is characterized by including.

Preferably, specifications of a user interface of the second device are customized according to the selected description.

(7) In order to achieve the above object,
The present invention is a medium storing a program that is read and executed by a device that executes a program, wherein the program externally acquires a setting shared file in which past user setting contents are described, A function of customizing the specifications of the operation screen of the device according to the description of the user setting content in the obtained setting shared file.

[0042]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of an image processing apparatus according to the present invention. The image processing apparatus shown in FIG. 1 is a so-called multifunction peripheral, and has a print function, a copy function, a facsimile transmission / reception function, and the like, as described later. Of course, the present invention is applicable to other image processing apparatuses, for example, copiers, printers, facsimile apparatuses, scanner apparatuses, and other various devices.

In FIG. 1, a control unit 10 controls the operation of each component, and is composed of, for example, a CPU for performing a program operation. Incidentally, the functions of all or part of the other configuration shown in FIG. 1 are also realized by software. An operation panel 20 is connected to the control unit 10. The operation panel 20 constitutes a user interface (UI). In the present embodiment, a so-called touch sensor is provided and a display input device is used. Specifically, the operation panel 20
Is composed of a display unit 20A and an input unit 20B. An operation screen is displayed on the display unit 20A, and the input unit 20B senses and receives a user operation input on the operation screen.

The control unit 10 includes an image input device (IIT)
12 are connected. The IIT 12 is an image input terminal that reads an image of a document as digital information. The control unit 10 includes an image output device (I
OT) 14 is connected. The IOT 14 is an image output terminal for forming an image on a sheet. The control unit 10 includes a facsimile transmission / reception unit 1.
6 are connected. This facsimile transmission / reception unit 16
Is a unit for transmitting and receiving image information using a telephone line. As described above, the apparatus shown in FIG. 1 has an image input function, an image output function, and an image transmission / reception function, and constitutes a so-called multifunction peripheral as described above.

The image processing section 18 is a unit for executing various image processing for a digital image, and has various functions such as reduction and enlargement and rotation of an image, conversion from a page description language to an image, and image interpolation function. are doing.

The media access unit 22 is a unit that receives a portable storage medium 24 and inputs and outputs data to and from the storage medium 24. Here, the storage medium 2
Reference numeral 4 denotes a medium such as an IC card or a magnetic card. In addition, data may be transmitted and received between a mobile phone and a PDA, for example. In the present embodiment, on this storage medium 24,
A setting shared file containing a description of the user setting content described in detail later is stored, and the media access unit 22
Read the file. The file is stored in the storage device 26. In FIG. 1, the file is conceptually indicated by reference numeral 26A.

The storage device 26 stores the above-mentioned file 26A and also stores image data and programs as needed.

The operation panel control unit 28 controls the operation panel 20
In the present embodiment,
In particular, it has a function of setting the specifications of the operation screen displayed on the operation panel 20 according to the user settings described in the file 26A. That is, the operation panel control unit 28 has a function of customizing the user interface.

The preset execution section 30 stores the file 26A
Is a means for performing an initial setting of the apparatus in accordance with the description contents of the above. When such an initial setting is performed, the operation panel control unit 28 reflects the initial setting on the operation screen. This will be described later in detail.

The network communication unit 32 stores the file 26
A means for acquiring A from the file server (see FIG. 2) 38. As described above, the user interface is customized and preset according to the description contents of the file 26A. Of course, when it is desired to change such initial setting conditions, the user uses the operation panel 20 to change the initial setting conditions. The desired settings are made. Such new user setting contents are stored in the control unit 10.
Is stored on the storage medium 24 via the media access unit 22 by the action of. In addition, the operation of the control unit 10 updates the file content stored in the file server via the network communication unit 32.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the file is read using the recording medium 24 and the file server 38 is used.
Although it is possible to selectively adopt both of the fetching of the file from the file, it is needless to say that only one of them may be adopted. Further, the storage medium 24 stores only the personal identification information, which is read by the media access unit 22 and, based on the personal identification information, from the plurality of files stored on the file server 38, the personal identification information is stored. May be specified and received. This will be described later in detail.

FIG. 2 conceptually shows the configuration of the user setting sharing system according to this embodiment. A plurality of image processing devices 34 and 36 are connected to the network 33. A file server 38 and a personal computer (PC) 40 are connected to the network 33.

Each of the image processing devices 34 and 36 has a user interface customizing function and a preset function as described above. In the configuration example shown in FIG. 2, the image processing device 36 has the storage medium 24 shown in FIG.
Has been inserted, and the above-described file has been obtained from the storage medium 24. In the image processing device 34, a file is transferred from a communication device 42 such as a mobile phone or a PDA via a communication line. That is, the file is stored in the memory 44 as a storage medium in the communication device 42, and the stored file is taken into the image processing device 34 via, for example, a telephone line.

As will be described later with reference to FIG. 3, the file server 38 stores the above-mentioned setting shared file in which user setting contents are described for each user. A corresponding file is provided in response to a file transfer request from the device. The PC 40 is a means for changing (updating) the contents described in any file stored on the file server 38. Updating of the description of such a file can be automatically performed by the image processing devices 34 and 36.

FIG. 3 shows a configuration example of the file server 38 shown in FIG. The control unit 46 is connected to the network 33 via the network communication unit 48. The user authentication unit 50 connected to the control unit 46
This is a means for comparing the user identification information transmitted from the image processing apparatus with the already registered user identification information, thereby performing user authentication. For the authenticated user, the setting shared file associated with the user is read from the storage device 52, and the file is provided to the requesting image processing devices 34 and 36 via the network 33.

Here, in the storage device 52, a setting shared file is stored for each user, and the control unit 46 manages the file. For example, the control unit 46 specifies the file name corresponding to the user name from the user name using a table indicating the relationship between each user name and the corresponding file name as shown in FIG. Here, the file name may be a specific file name or a pointer that specifies an address on the storage device.

FIG. 5 shows a description example of the user setting in the above-mentioned setting sharing file. Symbol 100 is
10 shows a description of a look and feel setting related to the operation of the operation panel. That is, the description is shown in FIG.
The display unit 20A and the input unit 20 of the operation panel 20 shown in FIG.
This defines the operating condition of B. More specifically, the description includes, in this example, designations of the button size, character size, tint, tab position, and button operation. Note that the button operation is, for example, designation of responsiveness when a button is touched.

Reference numeral 101 is a description of a function used by the user. Here, descriptions of three functions of a copying function, a facsimile function, and a scanning function are included. Here, in FIG. 5, the copy function shown in bold is provided with an initial setting flag, that is, it is specified in advance that the copy function is selected as a default value at the time of initial setting of the apparatus. . The other bold-type descriptions shown in FIG. 5 are similarly provided with the initial setting flag.

In file 200, copy function, FA
The X function and the scan function respectively correspond to the function classifications described later. Each function classification includes one or more function items (function names), and a designated value (button name) is described for each function item. Have been. For example, the copy function includes descriptions of paper selection, magnification, and both sides, and each description includes a name represented as a button as a designated value.

As indicated by the reference numeral 103, as for the FAX function, the description of the document size, the reading resolution, and the reduced dial number is included as the function name. Each description is associated with a value as a button name.

As indicated by reference numeral 104, the scan function also includes a description of a function name.
In this example, the specification regarding the template is included.

Further, the file 200 contains operation history information 105. This is a registration of the operation contents of the user in the past, and is referred to, for example, when it is desired to reproduce the setting contents immediately before or the setting contents at a predetermined time as they are.

In addition, the file 200 also includes information 106 regarding the screen switching mode, and the standard mode is selected in FIG. Of course, instead of such a simple selection, a detailed description (that is, a rule) of the screen switching method may be included.

FIG. 6 shows a file 2 including an alternative function setting.
A portion of 00 is conceptually shown. That is, when a certain function described in the file cannot be realized as it is in the device that has imported the file 200, an alternative function setting as an option indicated by reference numerals 107 to 110 is referred to, and the second function described therein is referred to. The function setting of the second order or the function setting of the third order is referred to. For example, in a case where color printing is set as an initial setting value, in a monochrome printer which reads a file including the description, option 1 indicated by reference numeral 108 is referred to first, and if the function can be achieved, the function is set as an initial setting value. If the function is set and the function cannot be realized, the function described in the option 2 is set as the initial setting value. Although the setting of such an alternative function can be defined by the user on the image processing apparatus,
It is also possible to define using the PC 40 shown in FIG.

Instead of simply setting one alternative function, a function set as an initial set value may be realized by combining a plurality of functions.

Next, an example of an operation screen displayed on the operation panel 20 shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIGS.

In this embodiment, as described above, it is possible to customize the specifications of the operation screen according to the description in the setting shared file. Specifically, FIGS. 5 and 6
For example, an operation screen as shown in FIG. 7 is configured according to the description shown in FIG. Here, buttons 111 to 113 corresponding to the function classification are displayed, and in addition, a button 114 for operation history and a button 115 for selecting other functions are displayed. The functions or designated values included in each function classification are represented as buttons. For example, when the copy function is selected as the initial setting value, each function belonging to the classification of the copy function as shown in FIG. Button 116 is activated. Buttons belonging to other function categories are represented by halftones or the like as shown by broken lines in the figure, and they cannot be actually selected. The display example shown in FIG.
7 shows an operation screen appearing first according to the description contents of the file 200 shown in FIG. 7, and initial values of paper A4, printing from both sides to both sides, and automatic as a magnification are preset as default values. Of course, the setting is temporary, and the setting content can be changed by a user operation. When selecting a function that is not shown on the operation screen, the user operates the button 115 of the other function to display another screen, or displays a unique operation screen provided as a standard on the apparatus. May be displayed, and settings may be made on the operation screen. Further, if the operation history button 114 is operated, for example, it is also possible to reproduce the immediately previous setting content as it is.

When the FAX function button 112 is operated on the operation screen shown in FIG. 7, the screen is changed to the operation screen shown in FIG. Here, the file 20 shown in FIG.
In accordance with the description content of 0, as indicated by reference numeral 117, a high resolution, A4 vertical, and a specific number as a shortened dial are highlighted as effective buttons.

Therefore, according to the customization and presetting of the user interface as described above, by reading the file on the device, the operation screen desired by the user always appears, and the presetting is performed as needed. The operation screen can be started up in a state where the
Operability can be significantly improved.

Incidentally, some image processing apparatuses have a small operation panel. In this case, if the same layout is always forced, there is a concern that adverse effects such as a reduction in the size of the button may occur. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 9, it is desirable that the configuration of the operation screen can be switched as required. In the example shown in FIG. 9, in FIG. 9A, the copy function is selected as the default setting, and a representative one of the buttons representing the initial setting values related thereto is displayed. Here, next page button 11
By operating the button 8, for example, as shown in (B), an n-up button for allocating a plurality of images appears on one screen, and the button can be operated. By operating the FAX function button 112 on the operation screen shown in (A), as shown in (C), buttons for each function belonging to the FAX function appear. Such a display screen switching method may be set according to the information of the screen switching method shown in FIG. 5, but it is preferable that the specification is automatically changed according to the size of the screen. desirable. Therefore, there is an advantage that the user can obtain a user interface that suits his / her preference also with respect to the screen switching method.

The description example shown in FIG. 5 is an example, and various information about the setting of the user interface or the setting related to the preset can be included. For example, the name of the user or the like can be expressed in the operation screen, and a button for a special function can be displayed in the operation screen. Also, various conditions can be set for the button form as long as the image processing apparatus accepts the button. For example, if the present invention is applied to a copying machine used for the first time in a convenience store or the like, the user can display his / her favorite operation screen only by installing the setting shared file in the copying machine. The copying purpose can be easily attained without causing confusion and without causing copying failure.

Instead of the example shown in FIG. 9, a selection tab may be added to an operation screen for each function classification so that the screen can be switched. Of course, if such a specification is desired, a description defining the specification may be included in the setting shared file.

It should be noted that the layout policy may be automatically changed according to the device model or type, or the likelihood of such automatic change may be left to the user.

Next, the image processing apparatus shown in FIG.
The operation of the system shown in FIG.

First, a first operation example using the storage medium 24 will be described. Each user has a storage medium 2
Before using the image processing device with the user, the user inserts the storage medium 24 into the image processing device. Then, the setting shared file on the storage medium 24 is automatically read and stored on the storage device 26 shown in FIG.
Then, the operation panel control unit 28 customizes the specifications of the operation screen displayed on the operation panel according to the contents described in the file. At the same time, the preset execution unit 30 presets the operation conditions of the apparatus. The contents of the preset are stored in the operation panel controller 28.
Will be reflected on the operation screen. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 7 and the like, preset items are identified by highlight expression or the like. After the end of the operation by the user, the newly added setting is reflected in the setting shared file as needed or by the user's selection. In that case, the operation history is also stored as described above. Also, the setting of the substitute function is performed as needed.

Next, the file server 38 shown in FIG.
A second operation example utilizing the description will be described. First, the user uses the operation panel 20 shown in FIG. 1 to input user identification information such as a password. This user identification information is sent from the image processing apparatus to the file server 38 via the network 33, and the user authentication unit 50 (see FIG. 3) in the file server 38 is registered in advance with the transmitted user identification information. Collation with the user identification information. When the user authentication is completed, the file server 38 reads out the setting shared file corresponding to the user and provides the file to the requesting image processing apparatus 34 via the network 33. After that,
As in the first operation example, customization and presetting of the operation panel specifications are performed in accordance with the description contents of the setting shared file.

Next, a third operation example using both the recording medium 24 and the file server 38 will be described.
Only the personal identification information is stored on the recording medium 24, and the information is read by the media access unit 22 and transferred to the file server 38 as described above.
In the file server 38, the same authentication processing as described above is performed by the user authentication unit 50, and after the authentication is completed,
The setting shared file corresponding to the user is transferred to the requesting image processing apparatus via the network 33. Thereafter, customization and presetting of the specifications of the operation panel are executed as described above.

Next, referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the operation panel control unit 28 and the preset execution unit 30 shown in FIG.
An operation example will be described.

First, FIG. 10 shows a flowchart relating to the setting of the look and feel. S101
Then, the user setting content described in the setting sharing file is read. In S102, it is determined whether or not the file has a definition of the button size. If the definition exists, the specified value described in the file is set as the button size in S103. On the other hand, if there is no definition of the button size, a standard value specified in advance as the button size is set in S104.

In S105, it is determined whether or not there is a definition of the character size in the setting shared file. If the definition exists, in S106, the designated value described in the file is set as the character size. If there is no such definition, a standard value specified in advance as the character size is set in S107.

In S108, it is determined whether or not there is a definition of a color in the setting sharing file.
In step S109, the designated value described in the file is set as the hue.
At 110, a pre-designated standard value is set as the hue.

In S111, it is determined whether or not the definition of the function switching tab is included in the setting sharing file. If there is such a definition, in S112, the position described in the file is designated as the position of the function switching tab. A value is set. On the other hand, if there is no definition, in S113, a standard value specified in advance as the position of the function switching tab is set.

In S114, it is determined whether or not there is a definition of the button operation type in the setting sharing file. If there is such a definition, in S115, the designated value of the button operation described in the file as the button operation type is determined. Is set. On the other hand, if there is no definition, a standard value specified in advance is set as the button operation type.

The steps shown in FIG. 11 are executed on the premise of setting the look and feel as described above.

Here, S201 corresponds to the setting of the look and feel shown in FIG. After the setting, in S202, the setting shared file is referred to,
The number n of function classifications is determined. Here, the function classification is
These correspond to large function items such as copying, facsimile, and scanning. In S203, button position data used for layout management and other layout data are initialized.

In S204, the function names (function items) are read out according to the description order of the setting shared file. For example, regarding the copy function, a function of paper selection is recognized. Then, in S205, it is determined whether or not this function can be realized on the device. If it is determined that this function cannot be realized, in S206, it is determined whether or not options are set for the function.
If there is an option setting, S204 is executed to determine whether the option setting can be further used. On the other hand, if there is no option setting in S206, the process for the function is completed, and the process proceeds to S215.

In S207, a button name as a designated value is read for each function item. For example, for the function item of paper selection, a button name of A4 is read. In S208, it is determined whether or not the button setting can be realized. If the button setting cannot be realized, the process proceeds to S213. Of course, also in this case, a step corresponding to the option setting as shown in S206 may be included.

If it is determined in S208 that the button setting can be realized, the position where the button is to be placed is determined in S209, and the button position data is registered in S210. Then, in S211, it is determined whether or not an initial setting flag is attached to the button,
If the initial setting flag is set, the function corresponding to the button is set to the selected state in S212. That is, the preset is performed.

At S213, it is determined whether or not another button name exists for the function item. If there is, the respective steps from S207 are repeatedly executed. Then, the data related to the function item is updated. And
In S215, it is determined whether or not the processing has been completed for all the function items. If not, the steps after S204 are repeatedly executed.

By performing the above operation, the layout of the operation screen is finally determined. of course,
The size and the like of each button follow the look and feel setting described above.

FIGS. 12 and 13 are flowcharts showing an operation example when the content of the setting shared file shown in FIG. 5 is changed on the image processing apparatus or the PC.

At S301, a recording medium (storage medium)
24 or login to the file server 38 is performed. As long as the image processing apparatus shown in FIG. 1 is used, any method can be adopted.
If so, the latter method is generally selected. In S302, it is determined whether the device is a PC or a device as an image processing device. In this case, if the device is a device, an operation is started in S303 using the operation panel 20 of the image processing apparatus. On the other hand, if it is a PC, a web browser is started in S304, and the server is connected via the browser.

In S305, it is determined whether or not a setting sharing file including a description of the user setting exists on the storage medium 24 or the file server 38. If so, the setting data in the file is deleted. S306
And if such a file does not exist, initialization is performed in S307. In S308, the current settings are displayed on the screen. For example, the description content shown in FIG. 5 is displayed on the screen.

In S309, whether to add a new function to such a description or to change the already set function is selected. If the function is to be changed, the user changes the function in S310. The function to be performed is selected, and the process proceeds to S314. On the other hand, if a function is to be added, a new addition operation is started in S311, and a list of functions that can be added is displayed on the screen in S312. Therefore, in S313, the user selects a function to be added on the list.

At S314, a designated value for the function to be changed or added is selected and saved. That is, one or a plurality of buttons representing the designated values are selected. Then, in S315, the list of the current setting contents is updated. In S316, it is determined whether or not there is a function to be added or changed. If such a function exists, each step from S309 is repeatedly executed. On the other hand, if such a function does not exist, the process proceeds to S317 shown in FIG.

In S317, it is determined whether or not to change the already set priority. If no change is made, the process proceeds to S320. On the other hand, if the priority is changed, , S318, a plurality of functions to be prioritized and their order are set by using the up and down buttons and the like. If it is determined in S319 that the setting of the priority is completed, the process proceeds to S320.
In step S321, it is determined whether or not to save the setting contents up to now, and if an input to the effect is made, in step S321, it is determined whether or not any of the selected functions includes an option to be added. It is determined whether or not such an option needs to be added. In S322, an option setting is added.

On the other hand, if there is no such function to be added as an option, it is determined in S323 whether or not the set contents set so far are stored on the storage medium. Contains S324
The data set up to now is stored in the storage medium. On the other hand, in S325, it is determined whether or not to update the file on the file server 38. If such an update is performed, the set data is transferred to the file server 38 in S326, and Is stored in the file server 38.

[0099]

As described above, according to the present invention,
There is an advantage that the operability of the device can be improved. In particular, there is an advantage that a user-oriented user interface can be constructed.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image processing apparatus according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a system according to the embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a file server illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the correspondence between user names and file names.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a specific example of a setting shared file in which user setting contents are described.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of a setting shared file including an option description.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing another example of the operation screen.

FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining switching of an operation screen.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining setting of a look and feel.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining an operation when performing an automatic layout.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining an operation when a description of a user setting content is added or changed.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining an operation when adding or changing a description of a user setting content.

[Explanation of symbols]

10 control unit, 12 image input device (IIT), 14
Image output device (IOT), 16 facsimile transmission / reception unit, 18 image processing unit, 20 operation panel, 22 media access unit, 24 storage medium, 26 storage device, 28
Operation panel control unit, 30 Preset execution unit, 32
Network communication unit, 33 networks, 34, 36
Image processing device, 38 file server, 40 personal computer (PC).

Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification symbol FI Theme coat II (Reference) G06F 3/12 H04N 1/00 C 9A001 H04N 1/00 B41J 29/00 T (72) Inventor Yasuyuki Toki Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa KSP R & D Business Park Building Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd. (2-1) Sakado, Takatsu-ku (72) Inventor Yu Takeda 3-2-1 Sakado, Takatsu-ku, Kawasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture KSP R & D Business Park Building Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd. F-term ( Reference) 2C061 AP01 AP03 AP04 AP07 CQ02 CQ12 CQ27 2H027 EE08 GA52 GA54 GA56 GB20 ZA07 5B021 AA01 AA05 AA19 BB00 BB01 PP04 5C062 AA05 AA14 AA16 AB20 AB23 AB38 AB41 AB42 AC02 AC05 AC04 FA03 A05 A00 FA43 FA44 9A001 DD13

Claims (20)

[Claims] 1. A system for sharing user settings among a plurality of devices on which an operation screen is displayed, comprising: a creation unit for creating a settings shared file in which user settings on a first device are described; Storage means for storing the shared file; obtaining means for obtaining the setting shared file from the storage means; and an operation screen displayed on the second device according to the description of the user setting content in the obtained setting shared file. And a customizing means for customizing specifications. 2. The user setting sharing system according to claim 1, wherein the setting sharing file is created for each user, and a specification of an operation screen is customized for each user. 3. The system according to claim 1, wherein said customizing means customizes the layout of the operation screen. 4. The system according to claim 3, wherein said customizing means further customizes a method of switching operation screens. 5. The system according to claim 4, further comprising: presetting means for initializing a function of the second device in accordance with a description of a user setting content in the setting sharing file, wherein the content of the initial setting is operated. A user setting sharing system that is reflected on the screen. 6. A system for sharing user settings between a plurality of devices of the same model or different models on which an operation screen is displayed, wherein a setting shared file created for each user and including a plurality of user setting information is created. Creating means, storing means for storing the setting sharing file, obtaining means for obtaining the setting sharing file from the storing means, and a plurality of user setting information in the obtained setting sharing file, Based on the capabilities of the device,
A user selecting means for selecting user setting information available for the target device; and a customizing means for customizing specifications of an operation screen of the target device according to the available user setting information. Setting sharing system. 7. The system according to claim 6, wherein the setting shared file includes priority information defining a priority between a plurality of pieces of user setting information, and wherein the selecting unit is configured to execute the setting based on the priority information. A user setting sharing system for selecting available user setting information. 8. The system according to claim 7, further comprising presetting means for performing an initial setting of a function of the target device according to the available user setting information, wherein the contents of the initial setting are reflected on an operation screen. A user setting sharing system, characterized in that: 9. The system according to claim 8, wherein the preset unit has a unit for performing an initial setting by combining a plurality of functions of the target device according to the available user setting information. User setting sharing system. 10. The system according to claim 6, wherein the setting shared file includes setting history information indicating a history of a user setting, and wherein the selection unit is configured to determine the available file based on the setting history information. A user setting sharing system characterized by selecting user setting information. 11. The system according to claim 6, wherein said customizing means customizes the specifications of the operation screen in consideration of the size of the operation screen of the target device. 12. An operation panel on which an operation screen is displayed and user settings are accepted on the operation screen; an obtaining unit for obtaining a setting shared file in which user setting contents are described; A panel control means for controlling an operation screen display operation and a user setting reception operation of the operation panel according to the description of the user setting contents, and an updating means for updating the contents of the setting shared file when a user changes the setting. An image processing apparatus, comprising: 13. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the setting shared file is stored in a portable storage medium, wherein the obtaining unit obtains the setting shared file from the storage medium, and wherein the updating unit sets the storage medium. An image processing apparatus for updating the content of a setting shared file stored in a file. 14. A file server in which a setting shared file including user setting information is stored, and a device connected to the file server via a network, wherein the device displays an operation screen, An operation panel that accepts user settings on the operation screen; an acquisition unit that acquires a setting shared file provided from the file server; and an operation of the operation panel according to the user setting information in the acquired setting shared file. A user setting sharing system, comprising: customizing means for customizing screen specifications. 15. The system according to claim 14, wherein a setting shared file is stored for each user in the file server, the device includes a unit for identifying a user who uses the device, and the file server includes: Means for authenticating the identified user, means for specifying a setting shared file corresponding to the authenticated user, and means for providing the specified setting shared file to the device. Characteristic shared user setting system. 16. The system according to claim 14, wherein a setting shared file is stored for each user in the file server, and a portable storage medium including user identification information is provided. Means for acquiring user identification information, wherein the file server comprises: means for providing a corresponding setting shared file to the device based on the acquired user identification information. . 17. A step of creating a file in which a specification of a user interface of a device is described, a step of saving the file in a state that can be shared by a plurality of devices, and a step of acquiring the saved file. ,
Customizing the specifications of the user interface of the device according to the description of the specifications in the file. 18. A method in which user settings can be shared between a plurality of devices of different models, wherein a step of creating a settings shared file in which user settings of a first device are described, and storing the settings shared file Selecting the description related to the operation of the second device from among the descriptions in the stored shared file; and performing the initial setting of the operation of the second device according to the selected description. And a method comprising: 19. The method of claim 18, wherein a specification of a user interface of the second device is customized according to the sorted description. 20. A medium that stores a program that is read and executed by a device that executes a program, the program comprising: a function of externally acquiring a setting shared file in which past user setting contents are described; A function of customizing the specifications of the operation screen of the device according to the description of the user setting content in the acquired setting sharing file.