JP2007052470A - Function setting device, function setting method, function setting program and recording medium - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a function setting device improved in convenience in using a plurality of user settings. <P>SOLUTION: A printer driver part 12 of a personal computer 1 comprises a user setting selection part 16 for simultaneously selecting a plurality of user settings, a contradictory function extraction part 22 extracting a contradictory function from all functions contained in the plurality of user settings selected by the user setting selection part 16, and a contradictory function selection part 23 changing the setting of the function extracted by the extraction part 22. Therefore, even if the plurality of user settings are simultaneously selected, data processing can be performed without error, and the convenience for users can be improved. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a function setting device that controls a processing device that executes processing using at least one of a plurality of functions and sets a function that is used when the processing device executes processing. .

  In recent years, the number of print processing functions in a printer has been increasing year by year. Accordingly, a technique for storing function settings frequently used by a user in a user interface for a printer is known.

For example, Patent Document 1 proposes a method of displaying one or more functions designated by the user as one function group and displaying the function group with one icon. According to this, the user can select a desired function or functions by selecting one icon.
JP 2002-182872 (released on June 28, 2002)

  In the technique of the above-mentioned patent document 1, there may be a case where the user desires to use a plurality of function groups. For example, there are a function group that groups multiple functions suitable for distribution materials, and a function group that groups multiple functions suitable for confidential documents. I want to use both functional groups.

  However, if there is a function or the like for which different detailed conditions are set between function groups, an error occurs and printing desired by the user cannot be performed.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a function setting device, a function setting method, a function setting program, and a program for improving convenience when using a plurality of function groups. Is to realize a computer-readable recording medium on which is recorded.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the function setting device according to the present invention controls a processing device that executes processing using at least one of a plurality of functions, and the processing device executes the processing. A function setting device for setting a function used for a function group, a function group selecting unit that simultaneously selects a plurality of function groups that are a set of functions specified in advance, and a plurality of function groups selected by the function group selecting unit An extraction unit that extracts functions that are incompatible with each other, and a change unit that changes a setting of the function extracted by the extraction unit.

  Further, the function setting method according to the present invention is a function setting device for setting a function to be used when executing processing for a processing device that executes processing using at least one of a plurality of functions. And a function group selection step for selecting a plurality of function groups including at least one function, and an extraction for extracting incompatible functions from all the functions included in the selected plurality of function groups. And a step of changing whether or not the extracted function is used or a detailed condition of the extracted function is changed.

  According to said structure, since a several function group can be selected simultaneously, the user can designate a some function group simultaneously. In addition, the functions that are incompatible with each other are extracted from all the functions included in the selected plurality of function groups, and the setting of the extracted functions is changed. Thus, the processing apparatus is not controlled in a state where functions that are incompatible with each other are set. That is, even if a plurality of user settings are selected at the same time, the processing apparatus can execute processing without causing an error, and the convenience for the user is improved.

  Further, in the function setting device of the present invention, in addition to the above configuration, each function of the function group is designated with detailed conditions when using the function, and the extraction means is configured as the incompatible function. It is preferable to extract a function in which different detailed conditions are specified between function groups, and the change unit selects any one of the different detailed conditions indicated in the function group for the function extracted by the extraction unit. .

  According to the above configuration, even if there is a function with different detailed conditions between function groups, by selecting one of the detailed conditions, the processing device executes processing using the function with the selected detailed condition. can do.

  Furthermore, in addition to the above configuration, the function setting device of the present invention further includes an exclusive function information storage unit that stores exclusive function information indicating a function group that cannot be used at the same time, and the extraction unit includes the exclusive function information. It is preferable to extract a function group that cannot be used at the same time as the incompatible function, and the change unit is preferably selected as a function that uses any one of the function groups extracted by the extraction unit. .

  According to the above configuration, for example, in the first and second function groups selected by the function group selection unit, the function A included in the first function group and the function B included in the second function group are simultaneously performed. Select one of the functions even if it is not available. As a result, the processing device only needs to execute processing using the selected function, and no error occurs in the processing device.

  Furthermore, in addition to the above configuration, the function setting device of the present invention is connected to a display device, and the changing means displays on the display device a screen for prompting a setting change for the function extracted by the extracting means. It is preferable to change the setting according to an instruction from the user.

  According to the above configuration, the user can change the detailed condition of at least one function or change the setting to use only one of the functions so that the functions extracted by the extraction unit can be compatible with each other. Can do.

  Furthermore, in the function setting device of the present invention, in addition to the above configuration, the changing unit preferably displays the reason why the functions extracted by the extracting unit cannot be compatible with each other.

  According to the above configuration, the user can recognize the reason why the functions extracted by the extraction unit cannot be compatible with each other, and can easily recognize how the setting is changed and no error occurs.

  Further, in the function setting device of the present invention, in addition to the above-described configuration, each function group is given priority, and the changing means is the function group having the highest priority for the function extracted by the extracting means. It is preferable to select the function.

  Further, in the function setting device of the present invention, in addition to the above-described configuration, priority is given to each function included in the function group, and the changing unit sets the priority for the function extracted by the extracting unit. It is preferable to select the highest function.

  According to said structure, about the function which the extraction means extracted, based on a priority, the thing with the highest priority is selected from the contradictory functions, and others are not utilized. As a result, the processing apparatus can execute the process without generating an error, and does not receive an input instruction from the user, so that the user's operation can be simplified.

  In addition, for example, when an administrator who manages a department determines the priority in advance, when a plurality of function groups with the same person belonging to the department are selected, data processing with the same setting is always executed. It will be. As a result, the same setting process can always be realized regardless of the person.

  Furthermore, in addition to the above-described configuration, the function setting device of the present invention further includes function group registration means for storing function group information indicating the function group in an internal storage unit or an external storage device. The registration means preferably stores the input priority in association with the function group information when storing the function group information.

  According to said structure, when registering a function group, a priority is registered for every function group. Therefore, the user can specify the priority according to the importance of the function group when registering the function group. In addition, it is only necessary to designate one priority for each function group, and the operability for the user is simplified.

  In addition to the above configuration, the function setting device of the present invention further includes a function group registration unit that stores function group information indicating the function group in an internal storage unit or an external storage device. When storing the function group information, the registration unit preferably stores the priority in association with each function included in the function group information.

  The priority may be determined according to an input from the user, or may be determined in advance for each function.

  According to said structure, when registering a function group, a priority is registered for every function. Therefore, when multiple functions are included in a function group, a high priority is registered for each function, such as registering a high priority for important functions in the function group and registering a low priority for less important functions. Can be registered.

  Furthermore, in the function setting device of the present invention, in addition to the above configuration, it is preferable that the processing device is a printer and the function is a print processing function.

  In recent years, printer functions have been diversified, and there are many exclusive function groups that cannot be used at the same time, but the user has not fully grasped that fact. However, according to the above configuration, even if a plurality of function groups are selected, functions that cannot be compatible with each other are set and changed, so that no printing error occurs.

  The function setting device may be realized by a computer. In this case, the function setting program for causing the function setting device to be realized by the computer by causing the computer to operate as the respective means, and a computer recording the function setting program A readable recording medium falls within the scope of the present invention.

  As described above, the function setting device according to the present invention includes a function group selection unit that simultaneously selects a plurality of function groups that are a set of functions designated in advance, and a plurality of function groups selected by the function group selection unit. An extraction unit that extracts functions that are incompatible with each other, and a change unit that changes a setting of the function extracted by the extraction unit.

The function setting method according to the present invention includes a function group selection step for simultaneously selecting a plurality of function groups that are a set of functions designated in advance, and a function group selection step and a function group selection step. It includes an extraction step for extracting incompatible functions and a setting change step for changing the settings of the extracted functions. Therefore, even if a plurality of user settings are selected at the same time, the processing device executes the process without causing an error. This improves user convenience.

  The present invention controls a processing device that executes processing using at least one of a plurality of functions, and a function setting device including an interface that sets a function used when the processing device executes processing It is related to. The functions set by the function setting device according to the present invention relate to, for example, printing processing in a printer, information processing in various applications (such as document creation software and image editing software), and control processing for a manufacturing apparatus. Hereinafter, as an embodiment of the present invention, an interface for setting a plurality of functions related to print processing in a printer will be described as a specific example, but the present invention is not limited to this.

(Overall configuration of printing system)
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a print system according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the printing system includes a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as a personal computer) (function setting device) 1, a printer (processing device) 2, a display device 3, and an input device 4.

  The personal computer 1 generates print data corresponding to an image created by document creation software, image editing software, and the like, and a processing instruction for printing the print data, and prints the print job including the generated print data and the processing instruction. Output to 2. The printer 2 forms an image corresponding to a print job received from the personal computer 1 on a recording medium such as paper, and discharges the recording medium. The personal computer 1 and the printer 2 are connected by a cable such as a USB.

  The display device 3 is a liquid crystal display, for example, and displays an image according to the control of the personal computer 1. The input device 4 is, for example, a mouse and a keyboard, and outputs a signal input by the user to the personal computer 1.

(Detailed configuration of PC)
As shown in FIG. 1, the personal computer 1 includes an application unit 11 and a printer driver unit 12. The personal computer 1 is provided with an operating system (OS) (not shown), and exchange of data and instructions between the blocks is realized via the operating system.

  The application unit 11 performs processing according to document creation software, spreadsheet software, image editing software, etc., and creates documents, tables, images, and the like. In the following, it is assumed that the application unit 11 creates a document according to document creation software. Further, upon receiving a print setting instruction from the input device 4, the application unit 11 activates the printer driver unit 12 and outputs the document data for which the print setting instruction has been issued to the printer driver unit 12.

  The printer driver unit 12 is a printer driver corresponding to the printer 2, processes the document data output from the application unit 11 into print data suitable for the printer 2, generates a processing instruction for printing, and generates the print data A print job including data and processing instructions is output to the printer 2.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the printer driver unit 12 includes a function setting unit 13, a function setting value storage unit 14, a user setting registration unit (function group registration unit) 15, and a user setting selection unit (function group selection unit). 16, a user setting storage unit (storage unit) 17, an exclusive function list storage unit (exclusive function information storage unit) 18, a user setting composition unit 19, a set function display processing unit 20, and a print request unit 21. It has.

  The function setting unit 13 selects a print processing function in the printer 2 and sets detailed conditions (setting values) of the selected function.

Examples of the print processing function in the printer 2 include the following.
-Number of copies setting function: Function for setting the number of copies to be printed-Color mode function: Function for switching between color printing and monochrome (monochrome) printing-Single-sided / double-sided printing function: Function for setting single-sided printing and double-sided printing-Saddle stitching function : Function for printing so that bookbinding is possible by folding the paper in the middle-N-UP printing function: Function for printing multiple (N) pages together on one sheet-Poster printing function: 1 page image Function to divide into multiple parts and print the divided image on different paper ・ Watermark function: Function to print watermark characters such as “Confidential” and “Important” ・ Punch function: Punch holes at the edge of the printed paper Forming function / stapling function: a function of binding a plurality of printed sheets with a stapler and a binding function: a function of forming a margin for binding at an end portion.

  The above functions are classified into either basic functions frequently used by the user or extended functions that are appropriately selected and used by the user. In this embodiment, the number of copies setting function, the N-up printing function, and the simplex / The duplex printing function is predetermined as a basic function, and the remaining functions are predetermined as an extended function.

  The function setting unit 13 causes the display device 3 to display a set value input box for inputting a set value of each function for the basic function, and prompts the user to input the set value of the basic function. Further, the function setting unit 13 displays an icon corresponding to the extended function, prompts the user to select an extended function, and displays an instruction to input the set value of the selected extended function to the input device on the display device 3. . The function setting unit 13 stores the input setting value for each function in the function setting value storage unit 14 in association with the function item indicating the function.

  The function set value storage unit 14 stores function identification information (in this case, function item) for identifying the function in association with the set value for the set function. The function setting value storage unit 14 is updated by the function setting unit 13 and the user setting combining unit 19.

  The user setting registration unit 15 performs processing for setting a set of one or a plurality of functions set by a user as user settings and registering user setting information indicating the user settings in the user setting storage unit 17. .

  The user setting registration unit 15 also registers the priority according to the instruction from the user at the same time for each function of the user setting. In addition, when using a combination of a plurality of user settings, the above priority indicates which function is used when there is a setting value mismatch function with different setting values between user settings and an exclusive function group that cannot be used at the same time. Indicates whether to give priority.

  The user setting storage unit 17 stores the user setting information. The user setting information includes user setting identification information (here, user setting name) for identifying each user setting, function identification information (here, function item) for identifying a function included in the user setting, This is information in which the setting value of the function is associated with the priority of the function.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of storage in the user setting storage unit 17. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the user setting storage unit 17 includes, for example, a user setting name “distributed material”, a function item “color mode” having a setting value “black and white” and a priority “2”, and a setting value “ The function item “single / double-sided printing” of “double-sided” / priority “1” is stored in association with each other.

  The user setting selection unit 16 selects a user setting desired by the user from a plurality of user settings stored in the user setting storage unit 17 in accordance with an instruction input to the input device 4. The user setting selection unit 16 can select a plurality of user settings at a time. The user setting selection unit 16 reads user setting information corresponding to the selected user setting from the user setting storage unit 17, and outputs the read user setting information to the user setting composition unit 19.

  The exclusive function list storage unit 18 stores a list of exclusive function groups (exclusive function list) that cannot be used simultaneously among the print processing functions in the printer 2. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the exclusive function list stored in the exclusive function list storage unit 18. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the exclusive function list storage unit 18 stores an exclusive function group in which the single-sided / double-sided printing function and the saddle stitch printing function with the setting value “double-sided” cannot be used at the same time. The exclusive function list storage unit 18 stores an N-up print function and a poster print function as an exclusive function group that cannot be used at the same time. In FIG. 3, a function item that does not have a setting value means that any setting value cannot be used. The exclusive function list stored in the exclusive function list storage unit 18 is determined in advance corresponding to the printer 2.

  The user setting synthesizing unit 19 synthesizes the user setting of the user setting information received from the user setting selecting unit 16 and stores the function after synthesis and its set value in the function setting value storage unit 14. The user setting synthesis unit 19 includes a contradiction function extraction unit (extraction unit) 22, a contradiction function selection unit (change unit) 23, and a function setting value storage processing unit 24.

  When the contradiction function extraction unit 22 receives user setting information corresponding to a plurality of user settings from the user setting selection unit 16, the contradiction function extraction unit 22 functions that are incompatible with each other among all the functions included in the user settings (contradiction occurs. Function). Here, functions that are incompatible with each other (functions that cause contradiction) are a set value mismatch function in which set values differ between user settings, and an exclusive function group that cannot be used simultaneously. The contradiction function extraction unit 22 includes a mismatch function extraction unit (extraction unit) 22a and an exclusive function extraction unit (extraction unit) 22b.

  The inconsistent function extraction unit 22a extracts function items having different setting values among a plurality of user settings from the user setting information received from the user setting selection unit 16, and extracts the extracted function items, their setting values, and priorities. Is output to the contradiction function selector 23.

  The exclusive function extraction unit 22b refers to the exclusive function list stored in the exclusive function list storage unit 18, and extracts an exclusive function group that cannot be used simultaneously from the user setting information received from the user setting selection unit 16. Then, all the function items included in the extracted exclusive function group and their set values and priorities are output to the contradictory function selection unit 23.

  The contradiction function extraction unit 22 is a function item included in the user setting information received from the user setting selection unit 16 and its setting value other than the function items extracted by the mismatch function extraction unit 22a and the exclusive function extraction unit 22b. The function item and its set value are output to the function set value storage processing unit 24. For example, when the user setting information received from the user setting selection unit 16 is only one user setting, the contradiction function extracting unit 22 includes all the function items included in the received user setting information, their setting values, and priorities. Is output to the function set value storage processing unit 24.

  The contradictory function selection unit 23 performs setting change processing for the function item and the set value so that no contradiction occurs with respect to the function item extracted by the contradictory function extraction unit 22 and its set value. Specifically, the contradictory function selection unit 23 uses the function extracted by the contradiction function extraction unit 22 for the function extracted by the contradiction function extraction unit 22 or details of the function extracted by the contradiction function extraction unit 22. Change the conditions. Further, the contradictory function selection unit 23 outputs the function item and its setting value after the setting change to the function setting value storage processing unit 24 for the function item extracted by the contradiction function extraction unit 22 and its setting value.

  Specifically, when the contradictory function selection unit 23 receives the function item of the set value mismatch function, the set value, and the priority from the mismatch function extraction unit 22a, the contradiction function selection unit 23 Selects whether to use the function and the setting value.

  When the contradictory function selection unit 23 receives the function item of the exclusive function group, its set value, and priority from the exclusive function extraction unit 22b, the contradictory function selection unit 23 uses the function based on the instruction from the user or the priority. The presence / absence and function selection processing is performed.

  The function set value storage processing unit 24 receives the function received from the contradictory function extracting unit 22 and its set value (that is, a function compatible with each other (no contradiction does not occur) and its set value) and received from the contradictory function selecting unit 23. The function and its set value (that is, the function in which the contradiction is resolved and its set value) are stored in the function set value storage unit 24.

  The set function display processing unit 20 displays on the display device 3 an image indicating that the function is set to be used according to the function item and the set value stored in the function set value storage unit 14. The display process is performed.

  The print request unit 21 processes the document data received from the application unit 11 into print data suitable for the printer 2, and generates a function item stored in the function setting value storage unit 14 and a processing command corresponding to the setting value. The print job including the print data and the processing instruction is output to the printer 2.

(Flow of overall processing in the printer driver section)
Next, an outline of the overall processing flow in the printer driver unit 12 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the printer driver unit 12 that has received an activation instruction from the application unit 11 displays a print setting screen on the display device 3 (S1).

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a print setting screen displayed when the printer driver unit 12 is activated. As shown in FIG. 5, the function setting unit 13 is an input box 31a for inputting setting values of basic functions (in this embodiment, the number-of-printing setting function, the N-up printing function, and the single-sided / double-sided printing function). 31b and 31c are displayed in area A, and the user is prompted to input basic function setting values. At the time of activation, the function setting unit 13 sets a predetermined default for each basic function, and stores the default in the function setting value storage unit 14. Further, the function setting unit 13 displays an icon I indicating each extended function in the area B, and prompts the user to select a desired extended function. The function setting unit 13 can display the icons I corresponding to all the extended functions in the area B using a horizontal scroll bar.

  In addition, the user setting registration unit 15 displays a save button 32 in the area A for prompting the user to input a user setting registration instruction. Furthermore, the user setting selection unit 16 displays a use button 33 in the area A for prompting the user to input a registered user setting use instruction.

  The print request unit 21 also displays an OK button 34 for inputting a print job generation start instruction and a cancel button 35 for inputting a print setting cancel instruction.

  Next, the function setting unit 13 determines whether or not a function setting instruction is input to the input device (S2). That is, the function setting unit 13 functions when a new setting value is input to the setting value input boxes 31a, 31b, and 31c of the basic function and when any of the extended function icons I is clicked. It is determined that the setting instruction is input.

  When the function setting instruction is input (Yes in S2), the function setting unit 13 sets the input new setting value for the basic function, and the setting value corresponding to the clicked extended function for the extended function. Displays an input dialog box and prompts you to enter a setting value. Then, the function setting unit 13 sets the set value of the extended function according to the input value. Thereafter, the function setting unit 13 stores the set function and its set value in the function set value storage unit 14 (S3). At this time, the set function display processing unit 20 displays the function items of the extended function stored in the function set value storage unit 14 and an image corresponding to the set value on the print setting screen.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a print setting screen in S3. In FIG. 6, the function setting value storage unit 14 includes a print number setting function “2”, an N-up printing function “1-up”, a single-sided / double-sided printing function “double-sided (horizontal binding)”, and a watermark function “TOP”. This is a screen example in the case of storing SECRET "and color mode function" monochrome "(" "indicates a set value). As shown in FIG. 6, the set function display processing unit 20 displays an image P indicating the watermark function “TOP SECRET” and the color mode function “black and white” which is an extended function stored in the function set value storage unit 14. C.

  On the other hand, when a function setting instruction is not input (No in S2), the process proceeds to S4.

  Next, the user setting registration unit 15 determines whether or not the save button 32 has been clicked (S5).

  When the save button 32 is clicked (Yes in S4), the user setting registration unit 15 performs a user setting registration process (S5).

  Specifically, the user setting registration unit 15 displays a registration screen for registering user settings on the display device 3 and stores user setting information in the user setting storage unit 17 in response to an input instruction.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a registration screen displayed by the user setting registration unit 15. As shown in the figure, the user setting registration unit 15 includes all function items stored in the function setting value storage unit 14 and their setting values, a selection check box 36 for selecting a function, and a user setting name input box. 37 is displayed. Also, as shown in the figure, when a check indicating selection is input to the selection check box 36, the user setting registration unit 15 inputs a priority of a function for which the check has been input. 39 is displayed on the display device 3.

  Thereby, the user can register a desired combination of functions as a user setting from among the functions set before the process of S4. In addition, the user can determine which function is prioritized when the user setting is used in combination with another user setting later by setting the priority for each function selected as the user setting. .

  Then, when the save button 38 shown in FIG. 7 is clicked, the user setting registration unit 15 associates the input user setting name, the selected function item, the setting value and priority of the function. The user setting information is stored in the user setting storage unit 17.

  Thereafter, the process proceeds to S6. On the other hand, when the save button 32 is not clicked (No in S4), the process proceeds to S6.

  Next, in S6, the user setting selection unit 16 determines whether or not the use button 33 has been clicked.

  When the use button 33 is clicked (Yes in S6), the user setting selection unit 16 and the user setting composition unit 19 perform user setting use processing (S7). A detailed flow of the user setting use process will be described later. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S8. On the other hand, when the use button 33 is not clicked (No in S6), the process proceeds to S8.

  Next, in S8, the print request unit 21 determines whether the OK button 34 or the cancel button 35 (see FIG. 5) has been clicked. If no button is clicked (No in S8), the process returns to S2.

  On the other hand, when one of the buttons is clicked (Yes in S8), the print request unit 21 determines which of the OK button 34 and the cancel button 35 is clicked (S9).

  When the OK button 34 is clicked, the print request unit 21 processes the document data received from the application unit 11 into print data that can be processed by the printer 2, and the function items stored in the function setting value storage unit 14 and the function items. A processing instruction corresponding to the set value is generated. Then, the print request unit 21 outputs a print job including the generated print data and a processing command to the printer 2 (S10), and ends the process.

  On the other hand, when the cancel button 35 is clicked, the printer driver unit 12 stops displaying the print setting screen and ends the processing.

(User setting usage process)
Next, the flow of the user setting use process shown in S7 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the user setting selection unit 16 that has detected that the use button 33 has been clicked causes the display device 3 to display a user setting selection screen for prompting the user to input a user setting (S11). Specifically, the user setting selection unit 16 reads all the user setting information stored in the user setting storage unit 17 and, as shown in FIG. 9, the user setting name included in the read user setting information, and the user A user setting selection check box 41 for selecting a setting is displayed.

  Next, the user setting selection unit 16 determines whether or not a plurality of user setting selection check boxes have been checked (S12).

  When only one user setting selection check box is checked (No in S12), the user setting selection unit 16 receives the click of the OK button 42 (see FIG. 9) and selects the selected user setting. The user setting information is output to the user setting synthesizing unit 19, and then the process proceeds to S24.

  On the other hand, when a plurality of user setting selection check boxes are checked (Yes in S12), the user setting selection unit 16 instructs the user about the selected plurality of user settings as shown in FIG. The manual / automatic check box 40 is displayed for selecting either “manual” indicating that the composition processing is performed according to the above and “automatic” indicating that the user setting composition unit 19 performs the composition processing. Then, the user setting selection unit 16 determines a synthesis method (either “automatic” or “manual”) according to an input instruction from the user (S13).

  Thereafter, the user setting selection unit 16 receives the fact that the OK button 42 (see FIG. 9) has been clicked, and makes the contradictory function between the user setting information of the selected user setting and the combining method information indicating the determined combining method. Output to the extraction unit 22.

  Next, the inconsistent function extraction unit 22a of the contradiction function extraction unit 22 determines whether or not there is a setting value mismatch function in which different setting values are set for all the functions included in the user setting information received from the user setting selection unit 16. (S14).

  For example, when receiving the user setting information of the user setting names “confidential document” and “distributed material” shown in FIG. 2, the mismatch function extraction unit 22a sets the setting values of the function item “copy mode” to “monochrome” and “color”. ”And the user setting are detected, and it is determined that the function“ copy mode ”exists as a setting value mismatch function.

  If there is no set value mismatch function (No in S14), the process proceeds to S19. On the other hand, when there is a set value mismatch function (Yes in S14), the mismatch function extraction unit 22a reads the function item, a plurality of different set values and their priorities from the user setting information for the extracted set value mismatch function. The contradictory function selection unit 23 outputs the result.

  Next, the contradiction function selection unit 23 determines whether the synthesis method information received from the user setting selection unit 16 is “manual” or “automatic” (S15).

  When the synthesis method information is “automatic”, the contradiction function selection unit 23 determines whether or not the highest priority among the plurality of priorities received from the mismatch function extraction unit 22a is one (S16). .

  For example, when receiving the user setting information of the user setting names “confidential document” and “distributed material” shown in FIG. 2, the contradiction function selection unit 23 sets the function item “color mode” which is the setting value mismatch function detected in S14. As for the setting values “color” and “black and white”, it is determined that the highest priority is “1” and that the priority of “1” is one.

  When there is one highest priority (Yes in S16), the contradictory function selection unit 23 selects a setting value corresponding to the highest priority, and stores the selected setting value and function item in the function setting value. The data is output to the processing unit 24 (S17). Thereafter, the process proceeds to S19.

  That is, upon receiving the user setting information of the user setting names “confidential document” and “distributed material” shown in FIG. 2, the contradiction function selection unit 23 selects the setting value “color” having the highest priority “1”. The selected value “color” and the function item “color mode” are output to the function set value storage processing unit 24.

  On the other hand, when the highest priority is plural (No in S16), the process proceeds to S18. Also, when the synthesis method information is “manual” in S15, the process proceeds to S18.

  Next, in S18, the contradiction function selection unit 23 displays on the display device 3 that different setting values are set between user settings for the setting value mismatch function detected in S14. The contradiction function selection unit 23 stores in advance setting value mismatch reason information indicating that “a different set value is set between user settings”, and the function item, the set value, and the priority level from the mismatch function extraction unit 22a. Is received, the setting value mismatch reason information is displayed. Furthermore, the contradiction function selection unit 23 performs display for prompting the setting change of the setting value mismatch function.

  Specifically, the contradiction function selection unit 23 selects a check for selecting any one of the functions having different setting values indicated in the user setting information or not using the function for the setting value mismatch function. Display a box. As a result, the user can select whether or not to use the displayed setting value mismatch function, and when using the function, the user can select one of the setting values indicated by the user setting.

  Then, in accordance with the input instruction, the contradictory function selection unit 23 outputs the function item and its set value to the function set value storage processing unit 24 with respect to the set value mismatch function. To do. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S19.

  Next, the exclusive function extraction unit 22b of the contradiction function extraction unit 22 refers to the exclusive function list storage unit 18 for all functions included in the user setting information received from the user setting selection unit 16, and cannot be used simultaneously. It is determined whether there is a functional group (S19).

  For example, when receiving the user setting information of the user setting names “confidential document” and “distributed material” shown in FIG. 2, the exclusive function extracting unit 22b sets the function item “single side / double side printing function” of the setting value “double side”. , It is detected that the function item “saddle stitch printing” is in the exclusive function list, and it is determined that the exclusive function group exists.

  If there is no exclusive function group (No in S19), the process proceeds to S24. On the other hand, when there is an exclusive function group (Yes in S19), the exclusive function extracting unit 22b reads the function item, its set value, and priority from the user setting information for the extracted exclusive function group, and the contradictory function selecting unit 23 Output to.

  Next, the contradiction function selection unit 23 determines whether the synthesis method information received from the user setting selection unit 16 is “manual” or “automatic” (S20).

  When the synthesis method information is “automatic”, the contradiction function selection unit 23 determines whether or not the highest priority among the plurality of priorities received from the exclusive function extraction unit 22b is one (S21). .

  When the highest priority is one (Yes in S21), the contradictory function selection unit 23 selects a function item corresponding to the highest priority, and sets the selected function item and its set value as a function set value. The data is output to the storage processing unit 24 (S22). At this time, the contradictory function selection unit 23 sets the function to the default setting value and sets the corresponding function item when the contradictory function selection unit 23 sets a default setting value for the function that has not been selected. And the set value are output to the function set value storage processing unit 24. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S24.

  On the other hand, if the highest priority is plural (No in S21), that is, if the highest priority is plural, the process proceeds to S23. Also, in the case where the composition method information is “manual” in S20, the process proceeds to S23.

  For example, when the user setting information of the user setting names “confidential document” and “distributed material” shown in FIG. 2 is received, the contradiction function selection unit 23 sets the function item “single-sided / double-sided printing” and the function item “saddle stitch printing”. Since the highest priority is “1” and both have the priority “1”, it is determined that the highest priority is plural.

  Next, in S23, the contradiction function selection unit 23 displays on the display device 3 that the exclusive function group detected in S19 cannot be used simultaneously. The contradictory function selection unit 23 stores in advance exclusion reason information indicating that “cannot be used at the same time”, and upon receiving the function item, the set value, and the priority from the exclusion function extraction unit 22b, indicate. Furthermore, the contradiction function selection unit 23 performs display for prompting the setting change of the exclusive function group.

  That is, when receiving the user setting information of the user setting names “confidential document” and “distributed material” shown in FIG. 2, the contradiction function selection unit 23 uses the exclusive function group simultaneously as shown in FIG. A warning display indicating that the function cannot be performed and a selection check box 43 for selecting which function is used or which function is not used are displayed. Thereby, the user can select whether or not to use the displayed function, and when using the function, the user can select the function indicated in any of the user settings.

  Then, in accordance with the input instruction, the contradictory function selection unit 23 outputs, to the function setting value storage processing unit 24, whether or not the function is used and, if used, the function item and its set value. (S23). At this time, if the contradictory function selection unit 23 can be compatible with each other by setting a default setting value for a function that has not been selected, the contradictory function selection unit 23 sets the function to the default setting value and sets the function item. And the set value are output to the function set value storage processing unit 24. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S24.

  For example, when the function item “saddle stitch printing” is input as shown in FIG. 10, the contradiction function selection unit 23 sets the function item “saddle stitch printing” and the setting value “on” corresponding to the input function. Read from the user setting information and output to the function setting value storage processing unit 24. Further, the contradiction function selection unit 23 refers to the exclusive function list storage unit 18 for the function item “single side / double side printing” of the setting value “double-sided” that has not been selected, and sets the default setting value (here, “single-sided” ”) Is detected, it is detected that there is no contradiction with the function item“ saddle stitch printing ”, and the function item“ single-sided / double-sided printing ”and the setting value“ single-sided ”are stored in the function setting value storage processing unit 24. Output.

  Next, in S24, the contradictory function extracting unit 22 and the contradictory function extracting unit 22 out of the function items and the set values included in the user setting information received from the user setting selecting unit 16 are the mismatched function extracting unit 22a and the exclusive function. The function items other than the function items extracted by the function extraction unit 22 b and the set values thereof are output to the function set value storage processing unit 24.

  Here, when only one user setting selection check box is checked in S12, the contradictory function extracting unit 22 of the user setting synthesizing unit 19 does not extract the contradictory function and is included in the user setting information. All the function items and their set values are output to the function set value storage processing unit 24.

  Thereafter, the function setting value storage unit 24 stores the function items and setting values received from the contradictory function extraction unit 22 and the contradiction function selection unit 23 in the function setting value storage unit 14 (S25).

  The set function display processing unit 20 displays an image indicating that the function is set to be used by the function according to the function item stored in the function set value storage unit 14 and the set value. 3 (S26).

  FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the print setting screen after the processing of S26. In FIG. 11, the user setting storage unit 17 stores user setting information as shown in FIG. 2, and the user setting selection unit 16 selects two user settings “confidential document” and “distributed material” and combines them. It is an example of a print setting screen when the method is selected as “automatic”.

  As described above, the contradiction function selection unit 23 selects the setting value “color” having the highest priority “1” for the setting value mismatch function, and sets the selection value “color” and the function item “color mode”. This is output to the function set value storage processing unit 24.

  The contradiction function selection unit 23 has the same priority regarding the exclusive function group (the function item “single / double-sided printing” and the function item “saddle-stitched printing” of the setting value “double-sided”). Selection is made according to an instruction (here, it is assumed that the function item “saddle stitch printing” is selected). Then, as described above, the contradiction function selection unit 23 stores the function item “saddle stitch printing” with the setting value “on” and the function item “single side / duplex printing function” with the setting value “single side”. The data is output to the processing unit 24.

  Further, the user setting composition unit 19 stores the function items and the setting values included in the user setting information in the function setting value storage unit 14 for functions other than the setting value mismatch function and the exclusive function group.

  Therefore, the set function display processing unit 20 indicates that the watermark function of the setting value “TOP SECRET”, the color mode function of the setting value “color”, and the saddle stitch printing function are set in the area C. Three images P shown are displayed. Furthermore, the set function display processing unit 20 displays in the area A that the setting value of the function item “single side / double side printing” is “single side”.

  As described above, the personal computer 1 sets the function used when executing the printing process to the printer 2 that executes the printing process using at least one of a plurality of functions. The printer driver unit 12 of the personal computer 1 includes a user setting selection unit 16 that selects a plurality of user settings (function groups) including at least one function, and all of the user settings selected by the user setting selection unit 16. The contradictory function extracting unit 22 that extracts functions that are incompatible with each other, whether the function extracted by the contradictory function extracting unit 22 is used, or the detailed condition of the function extracted by the contradictory function extracting unit 22 is changed And a contradictory function selection unit 23.

  Here, the functions that are incompatible with each other (functions having contradictions) are functions having different detailed conditions (setting values) or exclusive functions that cannot be used at the same time, as described above.

  According to this, since a plurality of user settings can be selected at the same time, the user can specify a plurality of user settings at the same time. In addition, inconsistent functions are extracted from all functions included in the selected plurality of user settings, and the settings of the extracted functions are changed. Thus, the printer 2 is not controlled in a state where functions that are mutually incompatible are set. That is, even if a plurality of user settings are selected simultaneously, the printer 2 can execute the printing process without causing an error, and the convenience for the user is improved.

  The following can be considered as a specific use environment of the personal computer 1 of the present embodiment. In other words, an administrator of a department sets a user setting “confidential document” that sets only the confidential document printing function to be kept secret outside the department, and a user who sets only the printing function for materials distributed within the department. The setting “distributed material” is registered in advance as a user setting. Then, the person belonging to the relevant department sets the user setting “confidential document” for the confidential document, the user setting “distribution material” for the material to be distributed, the confidential document and the material to be distributed. On the other hand, a combination of user settings “confidential document” and “distributed material” is used. As a result, the paper printed in the department is always printed in a unified format according to the purpose. This facilitates document management within the department.

  Further, detailed conditions (setting values) for using the function are specified for each function of the user setting, and the inconsistent function extracting unit 22a of the contradictory function extracting unit 22 is an incompatible function between user settings. Extract setting value mismatch functions with different setting values. Then, the contradiction function selection unit 23 selects one of the setting values specified by the user setting for the setting value mismatch function extracted by the mismatch function extraction unit 22a.

  Thereby, even if there is a function whose setting differs between user settings, the contradiction is resolved by selecting one of the setting values. As a result, the printing process can be executed without causing an error.

  The personal computer 1 also includes an exclusive function list storage unit 18 that stores an exclusive function list indicating exclusive function groups that cannot be used simultaneously. Then, the exclusive function extracting unit 22b of the contradictory function extracting unit 22 refers to the exclusive function list and extracts an exclusive function group that cannot be used simultaneously as the incompatible functions. Furthermore, the contradiction function selection unit 23 selects one of the exclusive function groups extracted by the exclusive function extraction unit 22b.

  Thereby, for example, even when the function A included in the first user setting and the function B included in the second user setting cannot be used at the same time, one of the functions is selected. As a result, the printing process can be executed without causing an error.

  Further, the personal computer 1 is connected to the display device 3, and the contradictory function selection unit 23 displays a screen for prompting a setting change for the function extracted by the contradictory function extraction unit 22 on the display device 3. The setting can be changed accordingly.

  According to said structure, the user can recognize that a contradiction arises and can change a setting about the function which the contradiction function extraction part 22 extracted. Thereby, the user can perform an optimal setting change that resolves the contradiction.

  Furthermore, the contradictory function selection unit 23 displays the reason why the functions extracted by the contradiction function extraction unit 22 cannot be compatible with each other (that is, “setting values differ”, “cannot be used simultaneously”, etc.).

  As a result, the user can recognize the reason why they cannot be compatible with each other (reason for contradiction), and can easily recognize how the setting can be changed so that the printer 2 can execute the printing process without causing an error. Can do.

  Furthermore, priority is given to each function included in the user settings, and the contradictory function selection unit 23 can also select the function with the highest priority for the function extracted by the contradiction function extraction unit 22. That is, for the functions extracted by the contradictory function extraction unit 22, the highest priority is selected from the contradictory functions based on the priority, and the others are not used. Thereby, the printer 2 can execute the printing process without causing an error. Furthermore, since the user does not need to input anything regarding the setting change of the function extracted by the contradictory function extraction unit 22, the user's operation can be simplified.

  In addition, for example, when an administrator who manages a certain department determines the priorities in advance, when a plurality of user settings selected by the same person are selected, data processing with the same settings is always executed. It will be. As a result, the same data processing can always be realized regardless of the person.

  Furthermore, the personal computer 1 includes a user setting registration unit 15 that stores user settings in a built-in user setting storage unit 17. The user setting registration unit 15 stores user settings when the user settings are stored. The priority is stored in association with each function included. The priority is determined according to an input from the user.

  As a result, when multiple functions are included in a user setting, the priority of important functions in the user settings is registered high, and the priority of functions that are not so important is registered low. Can be registered.

(Modification)
In the above description, the user setting registration unit 15 registers the priority for each function selected as the user setting. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the user setting registration unit 15 may register the priority for each user setting. That is, for example, as shown in FIG. 12, the user setting registration unit 15 may display a priority input box 44 for the entire user setting, not for each function, and prompt the user to input the priority. .

  Then, for example, as shown in FIG. 13, the user setting storage unit 17 sets, for each user setting, a user setting name, a priority, a state, a function item included in the user setting, and a setting of the function item. The values are stored in association with each other.

  In this case, the contradictory function extraction unit 22 assumes that the priority of all the function items of the user setting selected by the user is the priority associated with the user setting, and sets the contradictory function and its set value and priority. What is necessary is just to output to the contradictory function selection part 23. Thereby, the contradiction function selection part 23 can perform the selection of the function utilized according to a priority similarly to the said description.

  Thus, by setting the priority for each user setting, the user does not need to set the priority individually for each function, and the convenience for the user can be improved.

  In the above description, the user setting registration unit 15 stores the priority in the user setting storage unit 17 at the same time when registering the user setting name, the function item, and the setting value. However, the priority registration timing is not limited to this. For example, when the user setting used by the user setting selection unit 16 is selected, an input screen for the priority of each function of the user setting used by the user setting registration unit 15 (or the priority of the user setting) is displayed. The priority may be determined according to the input value. According to this, the user can input the priority when using the user setting, and can determine the priority of each function (or each user setting) according to the contents of the document to be printed at that time. it can.

  In addition, the priority may be determined in advance for each function. For example, the printer driver unit 12 may include a function-priority table storage unit. The function-priority table storage unit stores a function-priority table indicating priority for each function. For example, when a check is input to the selection check box 36 (see FIG. 7) for selecting a function, the user setting registration unit 15 reads the priority corresponding to the function from the function-priority table storage unit. The read priority may be registered in the user setting information. As a result, the administrator who manages the user determines the function-priority table in advance, and stores the determined function-priority table in the function-priority table storage unit. No need to enter. Furthermore, when a user managed by the administrator registers user settings, the priority of each function is unified for each user setting.

  For example, when the administrator wants to give a certain function item X the highest priority, the function-priority table storage unit sets “1” as the highest priority for the function item X and “1” as the priority for the remaining function items. The lower-function-priority table may be stored. As a result, the function item X is used regardless of the user setting combination.

  In the above description, the user setting registration unit 15 registers all the function items stored in the function setting value storage unit 14 and the function items selected from the setting values and the setting values as user settings. did. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the user setting registration unit 15 displays all the function items of printing processing in the printer 2 and their default setting values on the registration screen, and displays the function items and default setting values selected from them. It may be registered as a user setting. Then, the user setting selection unit 16 displays an input instruction for the set value for each selected function item, and outputs the input set value to the user setting composition unit 19. Thereby, the user can set only the function item when registering the user setting, and can set the setting value of each function item when using the user setting.

  The user setting storage unit 17 is provided in a storage device (for example, a server device) external to the personal computer 1, and the user setting selection unit 16 acquires user setting information from the server device via a communication network. May be. Thereby, only by updating the user setting storage unit 17 included in the server device, a plurality of personal computers connected to the server device can use the latest user settings.

  In addition to the user setting storage unit 17, a user setting registration unit 15 may be provided in the server device. Thereby, the registration process of the user setting can be performed only by the server device, and the user setting can be prevented from being arbitrarily changed by each user.

  The personal computer 1 provided with the printer driver unit 12 of the present invention can also be expressed as follows. In other words, in the interface that displays each icon or general software display format corresponding to a plurality of functions on the screen and selectively designates each icon or general software display format on the screen, the plurality of functions are displayed. User settings storage function that selects and saves the setting information, user settings use function that uses multiple user settings at the same time, and function settings that are saved by user settings that are used at the same time are inconsistent. Has a user setting composition function to solve the problem.

  As a result, a specific function setting group is saved as a user setting according to the use, thereby improving the usability and providing a means for easily selecting a function that the user wants to use by simultaneously using a plurality of user settings. be able to.

  Furthermore, if there is a function setting that causes a contradiction when using a plurality of user settings simultaneously, the reason for the contradiction is displayed to prompt the user to change the setting.

  Accordingly, when a plurality of user settings are used at the same time, the contradictory functions are displayed so that the user can change the settings according to the situation, thereby improving the usability for the user.

  Further, when saving the user settings, priority is given to each function included in the user settings. And, when using multiple user settings at the same time, if there is a function setting that causes a conflict, the setting is automatically changed based on the priority assigned to each function of each user setting so that no conflict occurs. Do.

  Thereby, based on the priority, the conflicting functions in the plurality of user settings are automatically resolved, so that the settings can be determined without any user intervention.

  Alternatively, when saving user settings, priority may be given to the user settings. If there are function settings that cause conflicts when using multiple user settings at the same time, the settings can be changed automatically so that no conflicts occur based on the priority assigned to each user setting. Good.

  Thereby, based on the priority, the conflicting functions in the plurality of user settings are automatically resolved, so that the settings can be determined without any user intervention.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims. That is, embodiments obtained by combining technical means appropriately changed within the scope of the claims are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

  Finally, the printer driver unit 12 of the personal computer 1, particularly the function setting unit 13, the user setting registration unit 15, the user setting selection unit 16, the user setting composition unit 19, the set function display processing unit 20, and the print request unit 21 You may comprise by a hardware logic and may implement | achieve by software using CPU as follows.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 14, the printer driver unit 12 of the personal computer 1 includes a CPU (central processing unit) 54 that executes instructions of a control program for realizing each function, and a ROM (read only memory) that stores the program. 55, for connecting to a RAM (random access memory) 56 for expanding the program, an HDD 57 as a storage device (recording medium) such as a memory for storing the program and various data, the printer 2, the display device 3, and the input device 4. Various I / Fs 51, 52, 53, etc. are provided. The object of the present invention is to record the program code (execution format program, intermediate code program, source program) of the control program of the printer driver unit 12 of the personal computer 1, which is software that realizes the above-described functions, in a computer-readable manner. This can also be achieved by supplying the recording medium to the printer driver unit 12 of the personal computer 1 and reading and executing the program code recorded on the recording medium by the computer (or CPU or MPU).

  Examples of the recording medium include a tape system such as a magnetic tape and a cassette tape, a magnetic disk such as a floppy (registered trademark) disk / hard disk, and an optical disk such as a CD-ROM / MO / MD / DVD / CD-R. Card system such as IC card, IC card (including memory card) / optical card, or semiconductor memory system such as mask ROM / EPROM / EEPROM / flash ROM.

  Further, the printer driver unit 12 of the personal computer 1 may be configured to be connectable to a communication network, and the program code may be supplied via the communication network. The communication network is not particularly limited. For example, the Internet, intranet, extranet, LAN, ISDN, VAN, CATV communication network, virtual private network, telephone line network, mobile communication network, satellite communication. A net or the like is available. Also, the transmission medium constituting the communication network is not particularly limited. For example, even in the case of wired such as IEEE 1394, USB, power line carrier, cable TV line, telephone line, ADSL line, etc., infrared rays such as IrDA and remote control, Bluetooth ( (Registered trademark), 802.11 wireless, HDR, mobile phone network, satellite line, terrestrial digital network, and the like can also be used. The present invention can also be realized in the form of a computer data signal embedded in a carrier wave in which the program code is embodied by electronic transmission.

  According to the function setting device of the present invention, even if a plurality of user settings are selected at the same time, data processing can be performed without causing an error. For example, even in a personal computer or a printer control device in which a printer driver can be installed. Applicable.

1 is a block diagram illustrating an internal configuration of a personal computer including a printer driver unit according to an embodiment of the present invention and peripheral devices thereof. It is a figure which shows one memory example of the user setting memory | storage part with which the said printer driver part is provided. It is a figure which shows an example of the exclusive function list which the exclusive function list memory | storage part with which the said printer driver part is provided memorize | stores. 3 is a flowchart showing the overall processing flow in the printer driver section. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a print setting screen when a printer driver unit is activated. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a print setting screen after function setting. FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the registration screen which a user setting registration part displays. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the utilization process of a user setting. It is a figure which shows an example of the selection screen of an exclusive function group. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen for making a user select the function utilized about an exclusive function group. It is a figure which shows an example of the print setting screen after a user setting synthetic | combination. It is a figure which shows the other example of the registration screen which a user setting registration part displays. It is a figure which shows the other example of a memory | storage of a user setting memory | storage part. It is a block diagram which shows the hardware constitutions of a personal computer, and its peripheral device.

Explanation of symbols

1 Personal computer (function setting device)
2 Printer (Processor)
3 Display device 15 User setting registration unit (function group registration means)
16 User setting selection unit (function group selection means)
17 User setting storage unit (storage unit)
18 Exclusive function list storage unit (exclusive function information storage unit)
22 Contradictory function extraction unit (extraction means)
22a Unmatched function extraction unit (extraction means)
22b Exclusive function extraction unit (extraction means)
23 Contradictory function selection section (change means)

Claims (13)

A function setting device that sets a function to be used when executing processing for a processing device that executes processing using at least one of a plurality of functions,
A function group selection means for selecting a plurality of function groups including at least one function;
Extraction means for extracting functions that are incompatible with each other from all the functions included in the plurality of function groups selected by the function group selection means;
A function setting apparatus comprising: a function for changing whether or not the function extracted by the extraction means is used or a detailed condition of the function extracted by the extraction means. For each function in the above function group, detailed conditions for using the function are specified.
The extraction means extracts a function in which different detailed conditions are specified between function groups as the incompatible function,
The function setting device according to claim 1, wherein the changing unit selects one of the different detailed conditions for the function extracted by the extracting unit. An exclusive function information storage unit that stores exclusive function information indicating a function group that cannot be used simultaneously,
The extraction means refers to the exclusive function information, extracts a function group that cannot be used simultaneously as the incompatible function,
The function setting device according to claim 1, wherein the changing unit selects one of the function groups extracted by the extracting unit as a function to use. Connected to the display device,
2. The function according to claim 1, wherein the changing unit displays a screen for prompting a setting change for the function extracted by the extracting unit on the display device, and changes the setting according to an instruction from a user. Setting device.   5. The function setting device according to claim 4, wherein the changing means displays a reason why the functions extracted by the extracting means cannot be compatible with each other. Each functional group is given a priority,
The function setting device according to claim 1, wherein the changing unit selects a function of a function group having the highest priority for the function extracted by the extracting unit. A priority is given to each function included in the function group,
The function setting device according to claim 1, wherein the changing unit selects a function having the highest priority among the functions extracted by the extracting unit. A function group registration means for storing function group information indicating the function group in an internal storage unit or an external storage device;
7. The function setting device according to claim 6, wherein the function group registration means stores the input priority in association with the function group information when storing the function group information. A function group registration means for storing function group information indicating the function group in an internal storage unit or an external storage device;
8. The function setting device according to claim 7, wherein when storing the function group information, the function group registration unit stores a priority in association with each function included in the function group information.   The function setting device according to claim 1, wherein the processing device is a printer, and the function is a print processing function. A function setting method in a function setting device for setting a function to be used when executing processing for a processing device that executes processing using at least one function among a plurality of functions,
A function group selection step of selecting a plurality of function groups including at least one function;
An extraction step for extracting incompatible functions from all the functions included in the selected plurality of function groups;
A function setting method, comprising: a change step for changing presence / absence of use of the extracted function or a detailed condition of the extracted function.   11. A function setting program for operating the function setting device according to claim 1, wherein the function setting program causes a computer to function as each of the means.   The computer-readable recording medium which recorded the function setting program of Claim 12.

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