JP2005132023A - Image processing unit, count processing method, storage medium storing program readable by computer, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To eliminate dissatisfaction from users or user's distrust even in a billing stage by significantly reducing an economical burden to be paid by users for periodical inspection and inspection at the time of the occurrence of troubles. <P>SOLUTION: When a service mode for diagnosing the state of predetermined image processing is set on an operation part 121, CPU 101 controls count-up processing of the counted value so that the pre-count associated with the execution of image processing for image diagnostic processing is not executed while the service mode is set. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus and a count processing method for controlling count mode processing in an image processing system that performs count counting according to image data editing processing and input / output, a storage medium storing a computer-readable program, and It is about the program.

  Conventionally, for example, an image input / output system such as a multi-function machine equipped with a scanner or a printer is equipped with a counter that counts the number of read scanners and the number of printed outputs. This counter is used to determine whether consumable parts have reached their useful life and need to be replaced, to specify various maintenance periods, and to collect charges according to the usage status. It was.

  In particular, businesses that use billing systems based on counters are widely deployed, and service personnel from manufacturers or sales companies regularly visit customers, check the number of sheets counted, and pay service fees according to the usage status. The form of collection is well known. In addition, there is also a form in which the customer side independently divides each user or user into groups, records the counter separately according to each usage, and grasps the usage situation.

  These counter devices may be provided on the image input / output device side, or may be mounted on the client application side such as a PC that performs the input / output instruction. Alternatively, it may be mounted on a third host device that specializes in counter counting and is connected by some communication means.

  In a network environment, one machine is commonly used by being shared by a plurality of clients.

In addition, there is a case where a trial period or the like is set in advance with some version upgrade, and in that case, there is a case where the charge is exempted and free, or a special discount fee is used depending on conditions. As this type of technology, the following Patent Documents 1 and 2 have already been published.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 05-37352 JP-A-8-6444

  However, if a serious abnormality or failure occurs in the system, the person in charge of the manufacturer or sales company visits the customer for recovery, and performs operation checks, debugging work, and confirmation tests on the spot. In this case, there are cases where complicated and troublesome procedures are required for counter management and billing methods.

  For example, as mentioned above, the counter is also used for confirming the number of parts that can be used. Therefore, counting cannot be stopped or calculated backwards, but it will be charged as a service fee based on the counter. Therefore, the customer side bears up to the amount corresponding to the restoration work of the manufacturer side. In this regard, there were scenes where customer dissatisfaction or distrust occurred.

  Actually, as a countermeasure, record the number of counters spent for restoration work such as debugging, and report the report to the service person or invoice creation person from the restoration work person at the time of counter counting / billing request at a later date. However, since the number is subtracted, it is only due to the contact between the persons in charge, so it is not possible to deny the possibility of miscommunication or administrative errors, and dissatisfaction or distrust is still wiped out There was no scene.

  Furthermore, during restoration work, operations and actions from normal users other than restoration work are performed in order to prevent the counter value required for restoration and counter values from other general users from being mixed and becoming indistinguishable. There is also a desire to limit the instruction command, and at the same time as changing the selection of the counter counting method, it has been desired to realize a selection change function capable of switching the normal operation mode and the recovery dedicated operation restriction mode in conjunction with each other.

  In addition, not only at the time of restoration work, for example, exemption for charging during the trial period and charging start after the expiration of the trial period can be surely exempted and charged, eliminating customer concerns and There was a demand for predicting the count number for full-scale operation, that is, the billing budget, based on the count number.

  However, on the other hand, the device was used without noticing that the trial period had expired, and unexpected charges could occur.

  Furthermore, in that case, there has been a demand for easily confirming how much the number of counts has increased by use until it is noticed.

  Furthermore, there has been a demand to implement recording and confirmation of the counter information, selection of a counter counting method, specification of an operation restriction mode, specification of a trial period, etc. on a personal computer, a portable terminal, or a dedicated host computer. .

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to perform image processing that is inevitably executed during periodic inspections in an image processing apparatus and inspections when trouble occurs. It is avoided that the number of times is added to the normal counting process, and the economic burden that the user should pay for periodic inspections and inspections when troubles occur is greatly reduced. Image processing apparatus and count processing method capable of eliminating user dissatisfaction or user distrust, and a storage medium and a program storing a computer-readable program are provided.

  A first invention according to the present invention is an image processing apparatus that performs predetermined image processing, and includes first count means for counting the number of execution times of the predetermined image processing (for example, by a soft counter by the CPU 101 shown in FIG. 1). Configured), setting means for setting a service mode for diagnosing the predetermined image processing state (for example, equivalent to the operation unit 121 shown in FIG. 1), and while the service mode is set by the setting means Control means for controlling the first counting means not to count in accordance with image processing executed for diagnostic imaging processing (for example, counting processing by the CPU 101 shown in FIG. 1 and counting processing shown in FIG. 24) Corresponding to the procedure).

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a trial mode setting means (e.g., corresponding to the operation unit 121 shown in FIG. 1) for setting a trial mode for permitting the predetermined image processing a predetermined number of times, and the trial mode setting. During the trial mode setting by the means, a second count means (for example, constituted by a soft counter by the CPU 101 shown in FIG. 1) for counting the number of times image processing is executed, and a count display by the first or second count means And a count display control unit (for example, by the CPU 101 shown in FIG. 1) that displays the count value by the first or second counting unit on the operation unit based on the selection result by the selecting unit. ).

  A third invention according to the present invention is characterized in that the first counting means can count the number of executions for each image processing mode.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided storage means for storing the number of executions for each image processing mode counted by the first counting means.

  A fifth invention according to the present invention is a count processing method in an image processing apparatus that performs predetermined image processing, and includes a first counting step (step (shown in FIG. 24) for counting the number of executions of the predetermined image processing. 9)), a setting step (step (3) shown in FIG. 24) for setting a service mode for diagnosing the predetermined image processing state, and image diagnosis while the service mode is set by the setting step. And a control step (steps (4) to (6) shown in FIG. 24) for controlling the first count step so as not to be counted in accordance with image processing executed for processing.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a trial mode setting step (step (2) shown in FIG. 24) for setting a trial mode in which the predetermined image processing is permitted a predetermined number of times, and the trial mode setting step. Selection for selecting either the second count step (step (13) shown in FIG. 24) for counting the number of times of image processing to be executed or the count display by the first or second count step during the trial mode setting. And a count display control step (step (15) shown in FIG. 24) for displaying the count value by the first or second counting means on the operation unit based on the selection result by the selection step. Features.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, a program for executing the count processing method of the fifth or sixth aspect is recorded on a computer-readable storage medium.

  A seventh invention according to the present invention is a program for executing the count processing method of the fifth or sixth invention.

  According to the present invention, it is avoided that the number of times of image processing that is inevitably executed is added to the normal count process at the time of periodic inspection in the image processing apparatus or at the time of trouble occurrence. An image that can relieve the user's dissatisfaction or distrust in the billing stage by remarkably reducing the economic burden that the user should pay for periodic inspections and inspections when trouble occurs. A processing apparatus, a count processing method, and a storage medium storing a computer-readable program and a program are provided.

  Next, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image processing system to which an image processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied.

  In FIG. 1, reference numeral 101 denotes a CPU, which is configured by a predetermined microprocessor, controls the entire image processing apparatus, and controls each device connected to a high-speed CPU bus 104 to be described later. The CPU 101 executes various control programs loaded into the memory 103 to perform image processing and counter control.

  Reference numeral 102 denotes an HD, which is a large-capacity hard disk for storing a plurality of applications, related data, and image data when the CPU 101 operates, and includes counter information in this case and is under the control of the CPU 101 described above. Is. Reference numeral 103 denotes a memory that functions as a work memory for the operation of the CPU 101 and includes the counter information in this case as with the HD 102 and can be accessed from the CPU 101 at high speed.

  The high-speed CPU bus 104 is a bus that connects the CPU 101, the HD 102, the memory 103, and each functional unit described later, and transfers data processed by the CPU 101 to each functional unit or between each functional unit. This is for transferring data at high speed (DMA transfer). A VL bus or a PCI bus is generally used.

  A raster image processor (RIP) 105 receives PDL data in accordance with a page description language (hereinafter referred to as PDL) input from an external interface connected to a computer, which will be described later, and converts it into a bitmap image according to the contents. The PDL data is input from the high-speed CPU bus 104. The converted bitmap image is output through a high-speed image bus 116 described later. Examples of PDL types supported by the RIP 105 include Postscript (PS), PCL, LIPS (registered trademark), and CaPSL.

  An image processing unit 106 performs filtering processing on the image image such as smoothing processing and edge processing on the image image input from the high-speed image bus 116 in accordance with a processing command instructed by the CPU 101. In addition, the image processing unit 106 also has a character recognition (OCR) function for an image input from the high-speed image bus 116 and an image separation function for separating the character part and the image part.

  A compression / decompression unit 107 compresses the image input from the high-speed image bus 116 by an image compression method such as MH, MR, MMR, JPEG, and the like, and the high-speed CPU bus 104 or the high-speed image bus 116 again. The compressed data is sent to the high-speed image bus 116, or vice versa, the compressed data input from the two buses is decompressed according to the method compressed by this functional unit and sent to the high-speed image bus 116. It is.

  A bus bridge 108 is a bus bridge controller for connecting a high-speed CPU bus 104 and a low-speed CPU bus 109 described later, and absorbs a difference in processing speed between the buses. Through this bus bridge 108, the CPU 101 operating at high speed can access a functional unit operating at low speed connected to the low-speed CPU bus 109. The low-speed CPU bus 109 has a lower transfer speed than the high-speed CPU bus 104, and is a bus for connecting functional units having relatively slow processing capabilities. In general, an ISA bus or the like is used.

  Reference numeral 110 denotes a modem, which is a functional unit having a public line 111 and a low-speed CPU bus 109 interposed therein. The function unit modulates the digital data sent from the low-speed CPU bus 109 so that it can flow to the public line, and is sent from the public line. The modulated data is converted into digital data that can be processed in the image forming apparatus.

  Reference numeral 112 denotes a NIC for connecting the image forming apparatus to a local network and transmitting / receiving data to / from the local network. In general, the network 113 is configured by Ethernet (registered trademark) or the like.

  Note that counter information existing on the HD 102 or the memory 103 can be transmitted to the outside via a network.

  Reference numeral 114 denotes a management apparatus interface (hereinafter simply referred to as an interface), which functions to connect the image processing apparatus and the management apparatus 122, and sends control commands from the image processing apparatus to the management apparatus 122 via the interface 114. It is used for sending and returning an enable signal from the management apparatus 122 to the image processing apparatus. Similarly, it is possible to send counter information existing on the HD 102 or the memory 103.

  Reference numeral 115 denotes a panel interface that exchanges various control signals with the operation unit 121 in the image processing apparatus, and transmits signals of input switches such as keys arranged in the operation unit 121 to be described later to the CPU 101, RIP 105, and image processing. This unit performs resolution conversion for displaying the image data created by the unit 106 and the compression / decompression unit 107 on the liquid crystal display unit in the operation unit 121. Counter information existing on the HD 102 or the memory 103 can be transmitted.

  A high-speed image bus 116 is a bus for mutually connecting an image input / output bus in various image generation units (RIP 105, image processing unit 106, compression / decompression unit 107), a scanner interface 117, and a printer interface 119 described later. is there.

  A scanner unit 118 is a visible image reading apparatus equipped with an automatic document feeder, and has a RGB 3-line CCD color sensor or a 1-line monochrome CCD line sensor. Image data read by the scanner unit 118 is transferred to the high-speed image bus 116 by the scanner interface unit 117.

  In the scanner interface unit 117, the image data read by the scanner unit 118 is binarized optimally according to the contents of processing in the subsequent process, and the serial data is matched to the data width of the high-speed image bus 116. It has a function of performing parallel conversion and converting the read RGB primary color data into CMYBk data.

  A printer unit 120 prints image data received from a printer interface unit 119, which will be described later, as visible image data on a recording sheet. The printer unit 120 includes a bubble jet (registered trademark) printer that prints on a recording sheet using a bubble jet (registered trademark) system, and forms an image on a photosensitive drum using a laser beam, and images the recording sheet. There is a laser beam printer using the electrophotographic technology to be formed. Each printer includes a single color printer and a color laser beam printer using CMYBk. In the present embodiment, it is possible to print counter information existing on the HD 102 or the memory 103.

  A printer interface unit 119 transfers image data sent from the high-speed image bus 116 to the printer unit 120. The bus width of the high-speed image bus 116 is set to a bus width that matches the gradation of the printer to be output. A bus width conversion function for conversion and a function for absorbing the difference between the printing speed of the printer unit 120 and the transfer speed of image data on the high-speed image bus 116 are included.

  An operation unit 121 includes a liquid crystal display unit, a touch panel input device attached on the liquid crystal display unit, and a plurality of hard keys. A signal input from the touch panel or hard key is transmitted to the CPU 101 via the panel interface 115 described above, and the liquid crystal display unit displays image data sent from the panel interface 115. The liquid crystal display unit displays function display, image data, and counter information in the operation of the image forming apparatus. The liquid crystal display unit of the operation unit 121 displays various user interfaces (UIs) as will be described later, accepts image processing requests from the user, and displays the state of the image processing apparatus main body in an easy-to-understand manner. It is configured as follows.

  Further, the example shown in FIG. 1 shows a case where an image processing system is configured by image input / output device devices, but the present invention is applicable to a case where the image processing system is implemented on a personal computer, a portable terminal, or a dedicated host computer. is there.

  Next, details of the operation unit 121 on the apparatus described with reference to FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 2 is a plan view illustrating an example of the operation unit 121 illustrated in FIG. 1.

  In FIG. 2, reference numeral 201 denotes a liquid crystal display unit, which is a part for receiving various function displays, data displays, or input from the user, and performs bidirectional information exchange with the user. The surface is a touch panel, and various selections can be specified by the user touching the displayed keys and areas with a finger. For example, a standard screen display shown in FIG. 3 to be described later and key input are possible.

  A copy function call key 202 is used to display a copy function screen on the liquid crystal display unit 201. Reference numeral 203 denotes a fax function call key for displaying a fax function screen on the liquid crystal display unit 201. A box function call key 204 is used to display a box function screen on the liquid crystal display unit 201.

  Here, the box function is a function for accumulating image data using the HD 202 provided in the main body, and for copying and deleting the image data, specifying print output, and the like. An extended function call key 205 is used to display an extended function screen on the liquid crystal display unit 201. The extended function mainly relates to the RIP 105 and relates to the PDL printer function.

  A reset key 206 cancels various settings all at once and switches the screen display state to the default screen with one touch, or both. Also in various screen operation examples to be described later, when canceling or canceling the setting, this key is pressed. Reference numeral 207 denotes a guide key for displaying an explanatory text by pressing the key when the user does not understand the meaning of words and various keys in the middle of setting the function.

  A user mode key 208 is used to set functions and necessary presets when using the functions of the main body, or to display various information unique to the apparatus. An interrupt key 209 is a key that is pressed when the copy process is temporarily stopped during a copy operation and another copy operation is performed. However, there are some conditions under which this key can be pressed. For example, the key cannot be pressed except during a copying operation.

  A numeric keypad 210 is pressed when inputting a numerical value. 211 is a clear key for clearing the input numerical value. Reference numeral 212 denotes an ID key for restricting the use of the apparatus by an ID and a password.

  Reference numeral 213 denotes a start key for instructing the start of the operation. If all the prior settings have not been made, or if it is known that some kind of failure has occurred on the device and the operation cannot be started, the button cannot be pressed.

  Reference numeral 214 denotes a stop key for instructing to stop the operation. Reference numeral 215 denotes a counter confirmation key for confirming the current counter value (current counter value stored in the memory 103 or the hard disk 102). A detailed description thereof will be described later with reference to FIGS. The power key 216 is a power ON / OFF switch.

  The example shown in FIG. 2 is an example of mounting on an image input / output device, but the counting process itself may be mounted on a personal computer, a portable terminal, or a dedicated host computer.

  FIG. 3 is a plan view showing an example of a standard screen displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 201 shown in FIG. Note that this standard screen example is a display example of a standby screen in the copy function.

  Next, the counter recording state and functions in each of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a recording state when the CPU 101 shown in FIG. 2 functions as a soft counter. In this embodiment, the soft counter is composed of the CPU 101 and the memory 103.

  In the present invention, there are two types of counter recording states: a normal state 401 where a normal system counter is recorded, and another counter usage state 402 which is a feature of the present invention. Each function will be explained in detail.

  In FIG. 4, in the counter recording method 403, only normal counter recording is performed in the normal state 401, but in the separate counter usage state 402, it is possible to record as a separate counter together with recording to the normal counter as in the normal state. is there.

  Next, in the selectable detailed mode 404, the normal state 401 does not have the detailed mode, while in the separate counter use state 402, it is possible to select and specify from two types of modes, the trial period mode and the recovery / test mode.

  Next, the automatic release function 405 does not have an automatic release function in the normal state 401, whereas in the separate counter use state 402, the period specification or no specification is made only when the selectable detailed mode 404 is the trial period mode. Can be selected.

  The automatic release function 405 is a function that automatically shifts from the separate counter use state 402 to the normal state 401. For example, there are a method of specifying year, month, date, hour, minute, second, etc., and a method of specifying until the end of the month or how many days later. Then, when the specified condition is satisfied, the separate counter use state 402 is terminated and the state automatically shifts to the normal state 201.

  On the other hand, when there is no designation, it is not canceled automatically, but it is canceled by designating the cancellation by some method such as a key operation by the user.

  In the present embodiment, the description will be continued assuming that the automatic release function cannot be specified in the recovery / test mode. Of course, in the recovery / test mode, the automatic release function is set in the same manner as in the trial period mode described above. The recovery / test mode is automatically canceled and the normal state 401 is entered.

  Next, the operation reception target 406 refers to an operation system capable of operating this apparatus.

  Specifically, in the normal state 401, operations from all client devices connected to the apparatus and the main body operation unit are possible. Of course, if this apparatus is not set to be shared, it is practically possible to operate only from the main body operation unit.

  Similarly, in the trial period mode in the separate counter usage state 402, operations from all client devices and the main body operation unit are possible.

  In the recovery / test mode, it is possible to narrow down the operation acceptance targets in stages. It is possible to select from among “all clients and main body operation unit”, “specific client and main body operation unit”, and “main body operation unit only”. The specific client refers to one or more specific client devices, and is selected when an operation from another client device is not accepted.

  The main body operation unit receives an input from the operation unit 121 described with reference to FIG. Depending on the type of this selection, for example, when it is desired to concentrate on recovery work or test work, it is possible to prevent the recovery / test work from being affected by operations from other clients, and to eliminate uncertainties. It becomes possible. A client who cannot accept the operation is notified and displayed that the operation cannot be performed due to the recovery / test work. In that case, notification / display may be performed automatically when the selectable detailed mode 404 is changed for the connected client, or operation is not possible when some operation is performed on the client. May be notified / displayed.

  5 to 23 are diagrams illustrating examples of various operation screens displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 201 illustrated in FIG. 3. The actual selection / designating method of the counter counting method in the present embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS.

  First, the user presses the user mode key 208 shown in FIG. Thus, the liquid crystal display unit 201 is controlled by the CPU 101 so as to switch from the standard screen display shown in FIG. 3 to the user mode selection screen shown in FIG.

  In the screen shown in FIG. 5, there are keys for setting functions and necessary pre-settings for displaying the functions of the main body, or displaying various information unique to the device. The system management setting key 501 is pressed from there. If the close key 502 is pressed, the screen returns to the standby screen as shown in FIG. 3, but if the counter counting method to be described later is selected, the selection designation state is clearly indicated. Will do. Details will be described with reference to FIGS.

  When the user presses the system management setting key 501 in the screen shown in FIG. 5, the CPU 101 controls the screen display content of the liquid crystal display unit 201 to switch to the system management setting type selection / designation screen shown in FIG. Is done.

  In the screen shown in FIG. 6, several keys relating to system management are arranged, and a setting key 601 of another counter is pressed from the keys. When the close key 602 is pressed, the CPU 101 executes control to return to the display screen of FIG.

  On the other hand, when the setting key 601 for another counter is pressed, the CPU 101 controls to switch to the setting selection designation screen for another counter shown in FIG.

  In the screen shown in FIG. 7, selection designation corresponding to the selectable detailed mode 404 described with reference to FIG. 4 is possible.

  Here, when it is desired to specify the recovery / test mode, the recovery / test key 701 is pressed. When the trial period mode is desired to be specified, the trial period key 702 is pressed.

  When transitioning to this screen display in the normal state 401, as shown in FIG. 7, neither the recovery / test key 701 nor the trial period key 702 is highlighted, but the screen transitions to this screen in either counter usage state. If the setting is completed on the subsequent detailed setting screen or the screen is returned to this screen, the selected key is displayed in reverse video, and control for clearly indicating the current state is executed.

  Here, the screen display state in the latter case will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

  In FIG. 7, a cancel key 703 in another count mode is a key for canceling it and shifting to a normal state in the recovery / test mode or the trial period mode. When transitioning to this screen in the normal state 401, gray-out display control is performed as shown in FIG.

  The screen can be pressed in the screen display state when it is not in the normal state, that is, when the recovery / test key 701 or the trial period key 702 is highlighted.

  When the cancel key 703 in another count mode is pressed, the recovery / test mode or the trial period mode is canceled, the mode is switched to the normal state 401, and the CPU 101 is controlled to return to the display screen shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, when the recovery / test key 701 is pressed in FIG. 7, the CPU 101 executes control for switching the screen display to the display screen shown in FIG. 8. On the other hand, when the trial period key 702 is pressed, the CPU 101 executes control for switching the screen display to FIG.

  When the close key 704 is pressed, the CPU 101 executes control for returning to the display screen shown in FIG. 6 displayed immediately before switching to FIG.

[Recovery / Test mode designation process]
When the recovery / test key 701 is pressed on the display screen shown in FIG. 7, the CPU 101 executes control for switching to the recovery / test mode detailed setting screen shown in FIG. 8.

  In the screen shown in FIG. 8, a setting corresponding to the operation reception target 406 shown in FIG. 4 is made.

  Here, the user selects any key instruction from the main body operation unit + specific client reception key 801 and the main body operation unit reception key 802.

  In this display screen state, if it is already in the recovery / test mode, the CPU 101 reads the current detailed setting information, highlights the corresponding key 801 or key 802, and performs control to clearly indicate the current setting state.

  On the other hand, when the normal state 401 or the trial period mode is in the middle of a transition to the recovery / test mode, neither key is highlighted.

  When the main body operation unit + specific client reception key 801 is pressed, the CPU 101 switches to the display screen shown in FIG.

  Here, when the main body operation unit reception key 802 is pressed, the setting reception is completed and control for switching to the display screen shown in FIG. 12 is executed. When the close key 803 is pressed, the CPU 101 executes display control for returning to the display screen shown in FIG. 7 that was displayed immediately before switching to FIG.

  Further, when the main body operation unit + specific client reception key 801 is pressed, the CPU 101 executes display control for switching from the display screen shown in FIG. 8 to the specific client designation screen shown in FIG.

  On the display screen shown in FIG. 9, the client that receives the operation is designated using the IP address.

  In FIG. 9, an input field 901 is an IP address input field. An address is input using the numeric keypad 210 shown in FIG. 2, and the pressed numerical values are displayed in order in the input field 901 under the control of the CPU 101.

  The input field 901 is set so as to be divided into four areas by a period for dividing in advance, and the user does not need to input the period, and only the numerical value part is input left-justified.

  In the four areas, since a three-digit numerical value is entered, it is necessary to enter “0” if necessary. Further, a cursor 902 indicating the current input position is displayed in the input field 901. The cursor 902 can be moved left and right by one digit by depressing the cursor left movement key 903 and the cursor right movement key 904, and the numerical value of the digit where the cursor is aligned can be overwritten.

  The cursor 902 moves one digit to the right every time a numerical value is input. By pressing the clear key 211, it is possible to clear all the numerical values in the input field 901. Further, the setting is confirmed by pressing the close key 905, and the CPU 101 executes control for switching the display to the display screen shown in FIG. If it is desired to cancel the setting, the cancel key 206 is pressed.

  In this embodiment, only a single client is specified as a specific client, but a method of specifying a plurality of clients may be used.

  In this case, the IP address may be directly specified in the same way, or the client IP address and the host name are registered in advance in a format that can be identified, and the client that receives the operation is specified from the list. There are cases.

  Furthermore, information related to the client is managed by another host, and a client that receives an operation may be designated after inquiring client information from that host. Furthermore, the designation operation of the client that accepts the operation may be performed on another equivalent system device, personal computer, portable terminal, or dedicated host computer.

[Trial period mode specification processing]
In FIG. 7 described above, when the trial period key 702 is pressed, the CPU 101 executes control for switching the display from the display screen shown in FIG. 7 to the trial period mode release method designation screen shown in FIG.

  On the display screen shown in FIG. 10, a setting corresponding to the automatic release function 405 shown in FIG. 4 is performed.

  If it is already in the trial period mode, the CPU 101 performs control to read the current setting information by the key 1001 with no time limit or the key 1002 with a time limit specified, highlight the corresponding key, and clearly indicate the current setting state.

  On the other hand, neither key is highlighted when the transition from the normal state or from the recovery / test mode to the trial period mode is in progress.

  On the other hand, when the no-limit designation key 1001 is pressed, the setting is accepted and the CPU 101 executes control to switch from the display screen shown in FIG. 10 to the display screen shown in FIG.

  In addition, when the key 1002 with a time limit is pressed, the CPU 101 executes control for switching from the display screen shown in FIG. 10 to the trial period input screen shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, when the close key 1003 is pressed, the CPU 101 executes control to return to the display screen shown in FIG. 7 displayed immediately before switching to FIG.

  Next, a description will be given of the case where the time limit designation key 1002 is pressed with reference to FIG.

  The display screen shown in FIG. 11 is a display screen that is displayed by switching control by the CPU 101 when the key with specified time limit 1002 shown in FIG. 10 is pressed, and the period until the trial period mode is canceled can be input and set. It becomes a state.

  Here, in the present embodiment, the period is specified by the number of days. The period input field 1101 displays a numerical value designated last time. At the time of shipment, some numerical value is set as the system default value, and the numerical value is displayed when the CPU 101 reads it from the hard disk 102, for example.

  The period input operation can be performed using the numeric keypad 210 shown in FIG. 2 or the UP key 1102 and the DOWN key 1103 shown in FIG. When input is performed using the numeric keypad 210, the pressed numeric value is displayed and controlled in the period input field 1101.

  On the other hand, when input is performed with the UP key 1102 and the DOWN key 1103, the count UP or the count DOWN is controlled by the CPU 101 for each time the key is pressed, but the UP key 1102 and the DOWN key 1103 are set for a certain period of time. Continuously counting up or continuously counting DOWN is possible by continuously pressing.

  A numerical value that can be set in any case is, for example, in a range of “1 to 90”.

  2 is configured to be able to clear all numerical values in the input field 901 by pressing the clear key 211 shown in FIG. 2, and the display value in this case is a system default value (for example, on the hard disk 102) at the time of shipment. The value that is set as (value set to).

  Then, by pressing the close key 905 shown in FIG. 9, the period setting is confirmed, and the CPU 101 executes control for switching from the screen display shown in FIG. 9 to the screen display shown in FIG. 15.

  On the other hand, when it is desired to cancel the period setting, it is possible to press the cancel key 206 shown in FIG.

  In this embodiment, the case where the trial period is specified by specifying the number of days has been described. However, there are other methods for specifying the year, month, day, hour, minute, second, etc. There is also a way to specify a good time.

  Next, the display state of the screen corresponding to FIG. 7 in a state where the respective settings are confirmed will be described with reference to FIGS.

  However, the description of the display state and keys is basically the same as in FIG. 7, so only the characteristic part will be described.

  The display screen shown in FIG. 12 is a display example when only the operation from the operation unit 121 of the main body is accepted in the recovery / test mode.

  In FIG. 12, the recovery / test key 1201 is highlighted to clearly indicate the current setting state, and “Local” is displayed in the comment display area 1202, indicating that only operations from the operation unit 121 of the main body are accepted. ing.

  The display screen shown in FIG. 13 is a display example when an operation from one specific client is accepted in addition to the main body operation unit in the recovery / test mode.

  In FIG. 13, the recovery / test key 1301 is highlighted to clearly indicate the current setting state, and the IP address of the client is displayed in the comment display area 1302 in addition to “Local” indicating the main body operation unit. Is done. In the present embodiment, the example is a case where only one client is used, but there may be a case where there are a plurality of clients, and there may be some identifiable numerical value such as a host name instead of an IP address. Alternatively, there may be a case where only an indication that an operation from a specific client is possible is displayed.

  The display screen shown in FIG. 14 is a display example when the automatic cancellation deadline is not specified in the trial period mode.

  In FIG. 14, the trial period key 1401 is highlighted to clearly indicate the current setting state, and “no expiration date” is displayed in the comment display area 1402.

  The display screen example shown in FIG. 15 is a display example when the automatic cancellation deadline is designated in the trial period mode.

  In FIG. 15, the trial period key 1501 is highlighted to clearly indicate the current setting state, and the number of days remaining until the deadline is displayed in the comment display area 1502. The remaining days displayed in the comment display area 1502 are those at the stage when this screen is displayed, and are automatically subtracted and displayed. In addition, the initially set period may be displayed together.

  In this embodiment, the case where the trial period is specified by specifying the number of days has been described, but in addition, when specifying the year, month, day, hour, minute, second, etc. In the case of designating, it is displayed in the comment display area 1502 in a format corresponding to it.

  The designation of the trial period mode and the display when the trial period mode is designated may be performed on another equivalent system device, personal computer, portable terminal, or dedicated host computer.

[Example of standby screen display processing]
Next, display examples of the standby screen in the copy function after the above setting is completed will be described with reference to FIGS. These are all screens corresponding to FIG.

  16 to 19 are diagrams for explaining the transition state of the display screen displayed on the liquid crystal display unit of the operation unit 121 of the main body shown in FIG. 2, and a table of standby screens in the copy function after the setting is completed. Corresponds to the example shown.

  The display screen shown in FIG. 16 is a display example when only the operation from the operation unit 121 of the main body is accepted in the recovery / test mode.

  In FIG. 16, an under construction icon 1601 is displayed so that it can be easily recognized at a glance that it is in the recovery / test mode. Subsequent to this, “Local Only” is displayed in the comment display area 1602 to indicate more detailed information, indicating that only operations from the operation unit 121 of the main body are accepted.

  The display screen shown in FIG. 17 is a display example when an operation from one specific client is accepted in addition to the main body operation unit in the recovery / test mode.

  In FIG. 17, an under-construction icon 1701 is displayed so that it can be easily recognized at a glance that it is in the recovery / test mode. Subsequent to that, client information that can be received together with the operation unit 121 of the main body is displayed in the comment display area 1702 in order to clearly show more detailed information.

  In the present embodiment, the example is a case where only one client is used, but there may be a case where there are a plurality of clients, and there may be some identifiable numerical value such as a host name instead of an IP address. Alternatively, there may be a case where only an indication that an operation from a specific client is possible is displayed.

  The display screen shown in FIG. 18 is a display example when the automatic cancellation deadline is not specified in the trial period mode.

  In FIG. 18, a trial icon 1801 is displayed so that it is easy to recognize at a glance that the trial period mode is set.

  The display screen shown in FIG. 19 is a display example when the automatic cancellation deadline is specified in the trial period mode.

  In FIG. 19, a trial icon 1901 is displayed so that it is easy to recognize at a glance that the trial period mode is set. Following this, the comment display area 1902 displays the number of days until the deadline. In this embodiment, the case where the trial period is specified by specifying the number of days has been described, but in addition, when specifying the year, month, day, hour, minute, second, etc. When designated, the comment is displayed in the comment display area 1902 in a time limit format corresponding to the designated term.

  The display for identifying at a glance from the restoration / test mode or the trial period mode may be performed on other equivalent system devices, personal computers, portable terminals, other devices, and dedicated host computers.

[Display control example when trial period expires]
20 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen displayed on the liquid crystal display unit of the operation unit 121 of the main body shown in FIG. 2, and the same components as those in FIG. 3 are denoted by the same reference numerals. Hereinafter, with reference to the display screen shown in FIG. 20, the display control of the standby screen in the copy function when the automatic cancellation deadline is designated in the trial period mode and the period expires will be described.

  The display control in the trial period mode described above is basically the same as the display control in FIGS.

  In FIG. 20, in the present embodiment, the trial icon 2301 indicating the trial period mode is controlled to be displayed so that the trial period mode can be easily recognized at a glance. Subsequently, it is displayed in the comment display area 2302 that the period has expired, and as an operation restriction item due to the expiration of the period, only one copy can be made and a plurality of copies (mass copies) cannot be accepted. Corresponding to the state.

  Note that the operation restriction items when the period expires may be predetermined as the specification of the apparatus, or when the trial period described with reference to FIG. 11 is input, the operation when the period expires simultaneously with the designation of the period. In some cases, restrictions may be registered or selected from a plurality of restrictions registered in advance.

  In addition to the fact that only one copy can be made, there are restrictions on the paper size to be used, the color copier cannot perform color copy processing, only black and white copy is possible, and the copy function operates. However, there can be various forms such as making the operation as a printer that prints an image from a PC impossible, or not performing any operation. These operation restriction states are automatically switched upon expiration of the period. Or, there may be a case where the user migrates after confirmation by the user. A message is displayed in the comment display area 2302 during the operation restriction state associated with the expiration of the period.

  In addition, counter information related to processing performed in the operation restricted state at the end of the period may be added as a counter in the normal mode, or may be separately recorded and displayed again. It is controlled to automatically switch in conjunction with the operation restriction, or to switch after confirmation from the user.

  Further, when recording and display can be performed separately, for example, it is possible to check a counter value equivalent to a display screen shown in FIG.

  As described above, the operation restriction items at the expiration of these periods are canceled when the cancel key 703 in another count mode is pressed and switched to the normal state 401.

  The display control of the operation restriction items at the end of the period and the registration / selection designation processing of the operation restriction items may be performed on other equivalent system devices, personal computers, portable terminals, and dedicated host computers.

[Counter information display processing example]
21 to 23 are diagrams illustrating an example of a counter information display screen displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 201 of the operation unit 121 illustrated in FIG.

  Next, a counter value confirmation request and display control by the soft counter in this embodiment will be described.

  For example, in order to confirm the counter value individually managed on the memory 103 or the hard disk 102, the operator presses the counter confirmation key 215 on the operation unit 121. When the counter confirmation key 215 is pressed, the CPU 101 controls the screen displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 201 to switch to the counter confirmation screen shown in FIG.

  The counter confirmation screen example shown in FIG. 21 is a display example of normal counter information. In the present embodiment, there are the following four types of counters.

  The first is a total counter, which functions as a counter for counting and managing the accumulated total number of output sheets so far. The second is a large size counter that functions as a counter for counting and managing among the cumulative total number of output sheets that are classified into the large size.

  The third is a copy counter that functions as a counter that counts the total number of sheets output as a copy operation out of the accumulated total number of output sheets. The fourth is a large size copy counter that functions as a counter for counting and managing the number of sheets that are classified as the Large size among the total output sheets output as a copy operation.

  Here, the large size corresponds to a paper size that is larger than A4 in the case of AB, and a size that is larger than LETTER in the case of inch.

  In FIG. 21, an icon 2001 indicating a normal counter is used, and a counter type display 2002 is displayed according to the above four types of counters. The output number corresponding to each is displayed in the counter value 2003. The counter value displayed here is not limited to whether or not another count mode is being used, but anyway, the device displays the cumulative number of sheets output so far.

  The separate counter confirmation key 2004 is displayed and can be pressed when in the separate count mode, and may not be displayed otherwise, or may be always displayed. In the latter case, even if it is not in another count mode at that time, the count value recorded immediately before is stored and can be displayed by reading it out. This is because, for example, when a time limit is specified in the trial period mode, the mode automatically shifts to the normal mode when the time limit expires, and depending on the timing, a person may not be able to confirm the final count value. In this case, the count value is cleared when another count mode is designated again, and count counting is newly started.

  When pressed during another count mode, the display switches to another counter confirmation screen. When the close key 2005 is pressed, the display is switched to a standby screen as shown in FIG.

  The display screen shown in FIG. 22 is an example of counter information display during the recovery / test mode. Like the description in FIG. 21, the icon 2101 uses a construction icon indicating a counter during the recovery / test mode. A counter type display 2102 and a counter value 2103 corresponding to each are displayed.

  Here, the displayed counter value is the cumulative number of output sheets after shifting to the recovery / test mode. When the restoration / test mode is canceled and the mode is changed to the restoration / test mode, the count starts again from zero. When the close key 2104 is pressed, the CPU 101 executes control to return to the normal counter display screen as shown in FIG.

  The display screen shown in FIG. 23 is an example of counter information display during the trial period mode. Like the description in FIG. 21, a trial icon indicating the trial period mode is used as the icon 2201, and the counter type display 2202, respectively. A counter value 2203 corresponding to each is displayed.

  In this case as well, the counter value displayed here is the cumulative number of output sheets since the transition to the trial period mode. When the trial period mode is canceled and the trial period mode is entered again, the count starts from 0 again. When the close key 2104 is pressed, the CPU 101 executes control to return to the normal counter display screen as shown in FIG.

  The counter information confirmation display control may be performed on another equivalent system device, personal computer, portable terminal, or dedicated host computer.

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing an example of a data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to the count processing procedure by the CPU 101 shown in FIG. Note that (1) to (15) indicate steps, which are realized by executing a control program stored in the hard disk 102 or a ROM (not shown).

  First, in step (1), it is determined whether the mode set in the operation unit 121 is the normal mode. If it is determined that the mode is not the normal mode, in step (2), it is determined whether the mode is the trial mode. If it is determined that the service mode is not the trial mode, it is determined in step (3) whether the service mode is necessary for maintenance. If it is determined that the service mode is not selected, the process is terminated. In order to enter the service mode, for example, code information for shifting from the normal mode to the service mode is input by the operation unit 121.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step (3) that the service mode is selected, it is determined in step (4) whether or not a start key for instructing image formation is instructed on the operation unit 121. In (5), image processing necessary for maintenance is executed.

  Then, without performing any counting process, the process proceeds to step (6), where it is determined whether or not the operation unit 121 is instructed to cancel the set service mode, and it is determined that the cancellation instruction is not made. If this is the case, the process returns to step (4), and if it is determined that a release instruction has been issued, the mode is switched to the normal mode and the process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step (1) that the normal mode is selected, it is determined in step (7) whether or not an instruction to start image formation is given by the operation unit 121, and an image formation instruction is issued. If it is determined that the image is determined, image formation based on the mode instructed by the operation unit 121 or the client is executed in step (8).

  In step (9), every time image formation is executed, the CPU 101 increments the counter managed on the memory 103 or the hard disk 102, and updates the count value. Next, in step (10), it is determined whether or not the set image formation has been completed. If it is determined that the image formation has not been completed, the process returns to step (7) and is determined to have been completed. If so, this process ends.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step (2) that the trial mode is set, it is determined in step (11) whether or not an instruction to start image formation is given by the operation unit 121, and the image formation instruction is issued. If it is determined that it has been done, image formation based on the mode instructed from the operation unit 121 or the client device is executed in step (12).

  In step (13), every time image formation is executed, the CPU 101 counts up the counter managed on the memory 103 or the hard disk 102, and updates the count value. Next, in step (14), it is determined whether or not the set trial mode upper limit value has been exceeded. If it is determined that it has not been exceeded, the process returns to step (12) and if it has been determined that it has been exceeded. Displays an over-limit warning (15), and ends the process.

  Thus, while the service mode is being executed, the counting process of the counter that counts up by normal image formation is stopped, so that the number of times of image formation executed for maintenance may be counted when charging by the user. Thus, the count value in the service mode is not reflected in the amount charged to the user, and the economic burden is eliminated.

  According to the above embodiment, if a serious abnormality or failure occurs in the system, the manufacturer or sales representative in charge of the system visits the customer for recovery, and confirms the operation, debugging, and confirmation on the spot. Even when testing (during service mode), there is no need for cumbersome and cumbersome procedures for counter management and billing methods, and it is possible to reliably grasp the number counted by operation check and debugging work. Even at the billing stage, dissatisfaction from the user or distrust of the user can be resolved.

  In addition, when used in combination with the operation restriction function, it is possible to avoid mixing the count due to the original restoration / testing work and the count due to use by general users during the restoration work, which is necessary for the restoration / testing work. It is possible to reliably grasp the counted number.

  In addition, for example, regarding the exemption of charging during the trial period and the start of charging after the expiration of the trial period, the count value during the trial period can be called and confirmed at any time later, so exemption and charging can be started reliably. Furthermore, it is possible to predict the number of counts during full-scale operation from the count value during the trial period, which not only eliminates customer concerns but also allows budget predictions.

  In addition, by setting operation restrictions after the trial period has expired, it is possible to prevent unintentionally copying and increasing the counter value, thereby preventing an increase in billing charges. Become. In addition, after the specification period expires, it is possible to record and display the counter separately for the operation in the operation restricted state, and it is possible to accurately grasp the counter value during that period, and complicated confirmation work is performed. There is no need.

  Furthermore, the above-mentioned counter information recording and storage, selection of counter counting method, specification of operation instruction reception restriction mode, specification of trial period, restriction of operation after expiration of trial period, other equivalent system devices or personal Since it can be mounted on a computer, a portable terminal, or a dedicated host computer, and the setting can be confirmed in an environment closer to the user, an operation environment that is more user-friendly and easy to use can be provided.

  The configuration of a data processing program that can be read by the image processing apparatus according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the memory map shown in FIG.

  FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

  Although not particularly illustrated, information for managing a program group stored in the storage medium, for example, version information, creator, etc. is also stored, and information depending on the OS on the program reading side, for example, a program is identified and displayed. Icons may also be stored.

  Further, data depending on various programs is also managed in the directory. In addition, a program for installing various programs in the computer, and a program for decompressing when the program to be installed is compressed may be stored.

  The functions shown in FIG. 24 in this embodiment may be performed by a host computer by a program installed from the outside. In this case, the present invention is applied even when an information group including a program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network. Is.

  As described above, a storage medium storing software program codes for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to the system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus stores the storage medium in the storage medium. It goes without saying that the object of the present invention can also be achieved by reading and executing the programmed program code.

  In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

  Therefore, as long as it has the function of the program, the form of the program such as an object code, a program executed by an interpreter, or script data supplied to the OS is not limited.

  As a storage medium for supplying the program, for example, a flexible disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, MO, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM, DVD, etc. Can be used.

  In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

  As another program supply method, a browser of a client computer is used to connect to a homepage on the Internet, and the computer program itself of the present invention or a compressed file including an automatic installation function is stored on a recording medium such as a hard disk from the homepage. It can also be supplied by downloading. It can also be realized by dividing the program code constituting the program of the present invention into a plurality of files and downloading each file from a different homepage. That is, a WWW server, an ftp server, and the like that allow a plurality of users to download a program file for realizing the functional processing of the present invention on a computer are also included in the claims of the present invention.

  In addition, the program of the present invention is encrypted, stored in a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, distributed to users, and key information for decryption is downloaded from a homepage via the Internet to users who have cleared predetermined conditions. It is also possible to execute the encrypted program by using the key information and install the program on a computer.

  Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (operating system) or the like running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by performing part or all of the actual processing and the processing is included.

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

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications (including organic combinations of the embodiments) are possible based on the spirit of the present invention, and these are excluded from the scope of the present invention. is not.

  Although various examples and embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will not limit the spirit and scope of the present invention to the specific description in the present specification.

  It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

  In the above-described embodiment, the image processing apparatus has been described as an example. However, when a system that is charged every time an electronic device performs some processing is used, the processing that is executed for a service such as repair is necessary. The present invention can be applied to a system that restricts the count execution for.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image processing system to which an image processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. It is a top view which shows an example of the operation part shown in FIG. It is a top view which shows an example of the standard screen displayed on the liquid crystal display part shown in FIG. It is a figure explaining the recording state in case the CPU shown in FIG. 2 functions as a soft counter. It is a figure which shows an example of the various operation screens displayed on the liquid crystal display part shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the various operation screens displayed on the liquid crystal display part shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the various operation screens displayed on the liquid crystal display part shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the various operation screens displayed on the liquid crystal display part shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the various operation screens displayed on the liquid crystal display part shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the various operation screens displayed on the liquid crystal display part shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the various operation screens displayed on the liquid crystal display part shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the various operation screens displayed on the liquid crystal display part shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the various operation screens displayed on the liquid crystal display part shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the various operation screens displayed on the liquid crystal display part shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the various operation screens displayed on the liquid crystal display part shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the various operation screens displayed on the liquid crystal display part shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the various operation screens displayed on the liquid crystal display part shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the various operation screens displayed on the liquid crystal display part shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the various operation screens displayed on the liquid crystal display part shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the various operation screens displayed on the liquid crystal display part shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the various operation screens displayed on the liquid crystal display part shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the various operation screens displayed on the liquid crystal display part shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the various operation screens displayed on the liquid crystal display part shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus which concerns on this invention. It is a figure explaining the memory map of the storage medium which stores the various data processing program which can be read with the image processing apparatus which concerns on this invention.

Explanation of symbols

101 CPU
102 Hard disk (HDD)
103 Memory 121 Operation unit

Claims (8)

An image processing apparatus that performs predetermined image processing,
First counting means for counting the number of executions of the predetermined image processing;
Setting means for setting a service mode for diagnosing the state of the predetermined image processing;
Control means for controlling the first counting means not to count in accordance with image processing executed for image diagnostic processing while the service mode is set by the setting means;
An image processing apparatus comprising: Trial mode setting means for setting a trial mode for allowing the predetermined image processing a predetermined number of times;
A second counting means for counting the number of times image processing is executed during the trial mode setting by the trial mode setting means;
Selection means for selecting either the count display by the first or second counting means;
Count display control means for displaying the count value by the first or second count means on the operation unit based on the selection result by the selection means;
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising:   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first counting unit can count the number of executions for each image processing mode.   2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising storage means for storing the number of executions for each image processing mode counted by the first counting means. A count processing method in an image processing apparatus that performs predetermined image processing,
A first counting step for counting the number of executions of the predetermined image processing;
A setting step for setting a service mode for diagnosing the state of the predetermined image processing;
A control step for controlling the first counting step not to be counted in accordance with the image processing executed for the image diagnosis processing while the service mode is set by the setting step;
A count processing method comprising: A trial mode setting step for setting a trial mode in which the predetermined image processing is permitted a predetermined number of times;
A second counting step for counting the number of times image processing is performed during the trial mode setting in the trial mode setting step;
A selection step of selecting one of the count displays by the first or second counting step;
A count display control step of displaying the count value of the first or second count step on the operation unit based on the selection result of the selection step;
The count processing method according to claim 5, further comprising:   A computer-readable storage medium having recorded thereon a program for executing the count processing method according to claim 5.   The program which implement | achieves the count processing method of Claim 5 or 6.

Images