JP2015177503A - Image forming apparatus, image forming system and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a technology by which, after a user starts any processing by utilizing a control panel of an image forming apparatus, when the processing is to be interrupted, the processing can be continued by operating any other component than the control panel in the image forming apparatus.SOLUTION: An image forming system includes an MFP 10 and an external terminal 50. When interrupting processing P1 that is being executed by a user U1 using a control panel 6c, the MFP 10 stores information relating to the processing P1 in the interruption in its storage part as succession information (step S12). When a remote connection request is received from the external terminal 50 after the interruption of the processing P1 (S13), on the basis of setting information included in the succession information, the processing P1 is continuously executed by the user U1 using a touch panel of the external terminal 50.

Description

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

  An image forming apparatus such as an MFP is provided with an operation panel. The operation panel is used only by one user at a certain point. A plurality of users cannot use the operation panel of the image forming apparatus at the same time.

  There is also a technique for operating an image forming apparatus with an external terminal (remote operation apparatus).

  For example, in Patent Document 1, the operation screen data itself (bitmap image data or the like) is transmitted as it is from the image forming apparatus to the external terminal, and the operation screen is displayed on the display unit of the external terminal. A technique for receiving operation input in an operation screen by transmitting / receiving operation position information (pressed position information, etc.) is shown. This is a remote operation technology by so-called remote connection.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 05-122424

  By the way, after a certain user (also referred to as a first user) starts some processing (copy processing or the like) using the operation panel of the image forming apparatus, the processing may be temporarily interrupted. For example, the processing of the first user is interrupted due to the fact that the operation panel of the image forming apparatus has to be handed over to the second user for another user (second user) interrupt processing. Sometimes.

  However, when the first user performs the process (copy process or the like), if the process is temporarily interrupted as described above, the operability of the first user may be greatly reduced.

  For example, in the technology based on the premise that the operation panel of the image forming apparatus is used, after the interruption of the process, the first user (after the interruption process of the second user is completed) of the image forming apparatus You may be forced to wait for the operation panel to become empty.

  Or even if it uses the technique of the said patent document 1, a 1st user performs various setting operation (for example, setting operation of the several setting item regarding copy processing) etc. which are included in the interrupted process on an external terminal. Use and start over.

  Therefore, according to the present invention, when a certain user starts some processing using the operation panel of the image forming apparatus and the processing is interrupted, the processing is continued by operating other than the operation panel of the image forming apparatus. It is an object of the present invention to provide a technology that can be used.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the invention of claim 1 is an image forming system comprising an image forming apparatus and a remote control device capable of remotely operating the image forming apparatus, and the image forming apparatus. Is executed by the first user using the first operation means that receives the operation input from the user, the determination means that determines interruption of the process using the first operation means, and the first operation means. When the first process being interrupted is interrupted, a first storage means for storing information relating to the first process at the time of the interruption as takeover information, and the first operation means by the first operation means A first communication means for receiving a remote connection request from the remote operation device after the interruption of processing, wherein the remote operation device accepts an operation input from a user; Remote connection Second communication means for transmitting a request to the image forming apparatus, and when the image forming apparatus receives the remote connection request from the remote control apparatus, the setting information included in the takeover information Based on this, the apparatus further includes processing control means for continuously executing the first processing by the first user using the second operation means.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to the first aspect of the invention, the processing control means includes the user authentication information included in the remote connection request transmitted from the remote control device and the first storage. If it is determined that the remote connection request is a remote connection request by the first user based on user identification information included in the takeover information stored in the means, setting information included in the takeover information On the basis of the above, the first process by the first user is continuously executed using the second operation means.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to the first or second aspect of the invention, the takeover information is identification information of a specific screen displayed on the first operation means at the time of the interruption. Including the specific screen identification information, wherein the first communication means transmits display data for the specific screen based on the specific screen identification information to the remote operation device, and the second operation means includes the image formation The specific screen is displayed based on the display data received from the apparatus.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to any one of the first to third aspects, the first communication means displays display data for a setting item setting screen relating to the first processing. Is transmitted to the remote operation device, and the second operation means displays the setting screen based on the display data of the setting screen received from the image forming apparatus, and operates on the setting screen. The input information is received, the second communication unit transmits the operation input information to the image forming apparatus, and the processing control unit updates the setting information based on the operation input information, and The setting information is stored in the first storage means.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to any one of the first to third aspects, the first communication unit transmits the setting information included in the handover information to the remote control device. The second operation means displays a setting item setting screen related to the first processing and accepts operation input information on the setting screen, and the remote operation device changes the setting screen. Second setting means for storing the updated setting information including the setting contents recognized based on the operation input information, wherein the second communication means includes the second communication means. The updated setting information stored in the second storage unit is transmitted to the image forming apparatus at a predetermined timing.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, the processing control means terminates the remote operation by the first user using the second operating means. Later, the first process is further continued based on the updated setting information.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, the first process includes a scan image generation process and a scan image preview process. The first process is interrupted in the middle of the preview process, the scan image generation process is executed before the first process is interrupted, and the process control means is configured to transmit the process from the remote operation device. When the remote connection request is received, the scan image generated before the interruption of the first processing is transmitted to the remote operation device, and the preview processing is executed by the second operation means of the remote operation device It is characterized by making it.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, the processing control means is the first user by the first user using the first operating means. After the interruption of the process, the second process by the second user different from the first user is received using the first operation unit, and the second process is performed based on the operation using the first operation unit. The second process by the second user and the first process by the first user based on a remote operation using the second operation means are executed in parallel.

  According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, the interruption of the first processing is during execution of the first processing by the first operating means. Furthermore, it is generated by accepting an interrupt request for a process different from the first process.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, the first process is interrupted by pressing a setting content reset button provided in the image forming apparatus. It is generated according to.

  According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, the first process includes a predetermined no-operation period during the operation of the first process. It is characterized in that it is determined to have been interrupted in response to the setting content reset process being automatically performed.

  According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus that can be remotely operated by a remote operation device, the first operation means for receiving an operation input from a user, and a process using the first operation means. When the first process executed by the first user using the first operation unit is interrupted by the determination unit that determines the interruption of the first information, the information on the first process at the time of the interruption A first storage means for storing a remote connection request from the remote operation device after interruption of the first process by the first operation means, When receiving the remote connection request from the remote operation device, based on the setting information included in the takeover information, the second operation means that receives an operation input from the user in the remote operation device, And processing control means for subsequently executing the first process by the first user, characterized in that it comprises a.

  According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, the processing control means includes the user authentication information included in the remote connection request transmitted from the remote control device and the first storage. If it is determined that the remote connection request is a remote connection request by the first user based on user identification information included in the takeover information stored in the means, setting information included in the takeover information On the basis of the above, the first process by the first user is continuously executed using the second operation means.

  According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the twelfth or thirteenth aspect of the invention, the takeover information is identification information of a specific screen displayed on the first operation means at the time of the interruption. Including the specific screen identification information, the first communication means transmits display data for the specific screen based on the specific screen identification information to the remote operation device, and the specific operation screen is transmitted to the second operation means. It is characterized by being displayed.

  According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the twelfth to fourteenth aspects, the first communication unit displays display data for a setting item setting screen related to the first processing. To the remote operation device to display the setting screen on the second operation means, and the processing control means displays the setting information based on the operation input information received on the setting screen. The updated setting information is stored in the first storage means.

  According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the twelfth to fifteenth aspects, the processing control means ends the remote operation by the first user using the second operating means. Later, the first process is further continued based on the updated setting information.

  According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the twelfth to sixteenth aspects, the first process includes a scan image generation process and a scan image preview process. The first process is interrupted in the middle of the preview process, the scan image generation process is executed before the first process is interrupted, and the process control means is configured to transmit the process from the remote operation device. When the remote connection request is received, the scan image generated before the interruption of the first processing is transmitted to the remote operation device, and the preview processing is executed by the second operation means of the remote operation device It is characterized by making it.

  According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the twelfth to seventeenth aspects, the processing control means is the first user by the first user using the first operation means. After the interruption of the process, the second process by the second user different from the first user is received using the first operation unit, and the second process is performed based on the operation using the first operation unit. The second process by the second user and the first process by the first user based on a remote operation using the second operation means are executed in parallel.

  According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the twelfth to eighteenth aspects, the interruption of the first processing is during the execution of the first processing by the first operating means. Furthermore, it is generated by accepting an interrupt request for a process different from the first process.

  According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the twelfth to eighteenth aspects of the invention, the interruption of the first processing is an operation of pressing a setting content reset button provided in the image forming apparatus It is generated according to.

  According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the twelfth to eighteenth aspects, the first process has a predetermined no-operation period during the operation of the first process. It is characterized in that it is determined to have been interrupted in response to the setting content reset process being automatically performed.

  According to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, in the computer built in the image forming apparatus that is remotely operated by the remote operation device, a) a step of determining interruption of processing using the first operation means for accepting an operation input from the user; B) When the first process executed by the first user using the first operation unit is interrupted, information on the first process at the time of the interruption is stored in the image forming apparatus. Storing as takeover information in the first storage means; c) receiving a remote connection request from the remote operation device after interruption of the first process by the first operation means; d) When receiving the remote connection request from the remote operation device, the remote operation device accepts an operation input from a user based on setting information included in the takeover information. Using the operation means, characterized in that the step of continuing to execute the first process by the first user, a program for execution.

  According to the invention described in claims 1 to 22, after the first user starts the first process using the operation panel of the image forming apparatus, the first process is performed by operating the image forming apparatus. It is possible to continue by operating other than the panel.

1 is a diagram illustrating an image forming system. 2 is a functional block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an MFP. FIG. It is a functional block diagram which shows schematic structure of an external terminal. It is a figure which shows the outline of the operation | movement which concerns on 1st Embodiment. 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of the MFP. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of an external terminal. It is a figure which shows the screen transition in MFP and an external terminal. 6 is a diagram showing a screen displayed on the MFP. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a screen displayed on the MFP. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a screen displayed on the MFP. FIG. It is a figure which shows the screen displayed on an external terminal. It is a figure which shows the screen displayed on an external terminal. 6 is a diagram showing a screen displayed on the MFP. FIG. It is a figure which shows user identification information among transfer information (suspended job information). It is a figure which shows screen identification information among transfer information. It is a figure which shows setting information among transfer information. It is a figure which shows the outline of the operation | movement which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of the MFP. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of an external terminal. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of an MFP according to a third embodiment. It is a figure which shows an inquiry screen. It is a figure which shows a confirmation screen. It is a figure which shows a confirmation screen. It is a figure which shows an inquiry screen. It is a figure which shows the setting screen which concerns on the print setting process among box print processes. It is a figure which shows the setting screen which concerns on a modification. It is a figure which shows a part of operation | movement which concerns on another modification.

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

<1. First Embodiment>
<1-1. System overview>
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an image forming system 1 according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming system 1 includes an image forming apparatus 10 and an external terminal 50.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming system 1 includes an image forming apparatus 10 and an external terminal 50.

  The image forming apparatus 10 and the external terminal 50 are connected to each other via the network 108. The network 108 is configured by a LAN (Local Area Network), the Internet, and the like. Further, the connection mode to the network 108 may be wired connection or wireless connection. For example, the image forming apparatus 10 is wired to the network 108, and the external terminal 50 is wirelessly connected to the network 108.

  In the image forming system 1, various operations on the image forming apparatus 10 can be performed using the external terminal 50. That is, the external terminal 50 can remotely operate the image forming apparatus 10.

  The image forming system 1 is also expressed as a remote operation system because the external terminal 50 is a system for remotely operating the image forming apparatus 10. The external terminal 50 is also expressed as a remote control device.

<1-2. Configuration of MFP>
Here, the image forming apparatus 10 is exemplified by an MFP (Multi-Functional Peripheral).

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

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

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

  The communication unit 4 is a processing unit capable of performing facsimile communication via a public line or the like. Further, the communication unit 4 can perform network communication via the network 108. In this network communication, for example, various protocols such as TCP / IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol) are used. By using the network communication, the MFP 10 can exchange various data with a desired partner (for example, the external terminal 50). The communication unit 4 includes a transmission unit 4a that transmits various data and a reception unit 4b that receives various data.

  The storage unit 5 includes a storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD). The storage unit 5 stores (stores) image data of each operation screen. The storage unit 5 also stores a screen ID of each operation screen, a user ID, various setting contents (setting information), and the like.

  The operation unit 6 includes an operation input unit 6a that receives an operation input to the MFP 10 and a display unit 6b that displays and outputs various types of information.

  The MFP 10 is provided with a substantially plate-like operation panel 6c (see FIG. 1). Moreover, the operation panel 6c has the touch panel 25 (refer FIG. 1) in the front side. The touch panel 25 functions as a part of the operation input unit 6a and also functions as a part of the display unit 6b. The touch panel 25 is configured by embedding various sensors or the like in a liquid crystal display panel, and can display various information and accept various operation inputs from an operator (user).

  For example, on the touch panel 25, menu images (including button images and the like) are displayed. The operator can set various operation contents of the MFP 10 by pressing (touching) buttons (buttons represented by button images) virtually arranged in the operation screen of the touch panel 25. .

  As will be described later, on the operation screen of the touch panel 75 (see FIG. 1) of the external terminal 50, a screen similar to the operation screen displayed on the touch panel 25 of the MFP 10 is displayed. By using the operation screen displayed on the touch panel 75 of the external terminal 50, an operation similar to the operation using the operation screen displayed on the touch panel 25 of the MFP 10 is realized.

  The controller 9 is a control device that is built in the MFP 10 and controls the MFP 10 in an integrated manner. The controller 9 is configured as a computer system including a CPU and various semiconductor memories (RAM and ROM). The controller 9 implements various processing units by executing predetermined software programs (hereinafter also simply referred to as programs) stored in a ROM (for example, EEPROM) in the CPU. Note that the program (specifically, a program module group) may be installed in the MFP 10 via a portable recording medium such as a USB memory or the network 108.

  Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the controller 9 includes various types of controllers including a communication control unit 11, an input control unit 12, a display control unit 13, a determination unit 15, and a process control unit 16 by executing the above program. The processing unit is realized.

  The communication control unit 11 is a processing unit that controls communication operations with other devices (such as the external terminal 50). For example, the communication control unit 11 cooperates with the communication unit 4 and the like to transmit a display image (for example, image data) of the touch panel 75 in the external terminal 50 to the external terminal 50.

  The input control unit 12 is a control unit that controls an operation input operation to the operation input unit 6a (the touch panel 25 or the like). For example, the input control unit 12 controls an operation for receiving an operation input on the operation screen displayed on the touch panel 25.

  The display control unit 13 is a processing unit that controls a display operation in the display unit 6b (the touch panel 25 or the like). The display control unit 13 causes the touch panel 25 to display an operation screen for operating the MFP 10.

  The determination unit 15 is a processing unit that determines interruption of the process being performed using the touch panel 25 (specifically, the occurrence of the interruption (presence / absence of interruption)).

  The process control unit 16 is a processing unit that controls a takeover process related to a process based on an operation performed on the touch panel 25 of the MFP 10 and a process based on an operation performed on the touch panel 75 of the external terminal 50.

<1-3. Configuration of external terminal>
Next, the configuration of the external terminal (also referred to as a remote control device) 50 will be described.

  The external terminal 50 is an information input / output terminal device (information processing device) capable of network communication with other devices. Here, as the external terminal 50, a portable device (mobile terminal), more specifically, a tablet terminal is illustrated. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the external terminal 50 may be a smartphone or a personal computer. The external terminal 50 may be a portable device or a stationary device.

  FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the external terminal 50.

  As shown in the functional block diagram of FIG. 3, the external terminal 50 includes a communication unit 54, a storage unit 55, an operation unit 56, a controller 59, and the like. Realize the function.

  The communication unit 54 can perform network communication via the network 108. In this network communication, for example, various protocols such as TCP / IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol) are used. By using the network communication, the external terminal 50 can exchange various data with a desired partner (MFP 10 or the like). The communication unit 54 includes a transmission unit 54a that transmits various data and a reception unit 54b that receives various data. For example, the receiving unit 54 b receives display data (bitmap image data or the like) on the touch panel 75 from the MFP 10, and the transmission unit 54 a is information on operation inputs (operations) on the operation screen displayed on the touch panel 75 of the external terminal 50. Input information) and the like are transmitted to the MFP 10.

  The storage unit 55 includes a storage device such as a nonvolatile semiconductor memory. The storage unit 55 temporarily stores, for example, various image data (operation screen display data and the like) transmitted from the MFP 10.

  The operation unit 56 includes an operation input unit 56a that receives an input to the external terminal 50, and a display unit 56b that displays and outputs various types of information. In the external terminal 50, a touch panel 75 (see FIG. 1) configured by embedding a piezoelectric sensor or the like in a liquid crystal display panel is provided. Specifically, on the front side of the substantially plate-like external terminal 50, the touch panel 75 is provided over almost the entire surface except for the peripheral edge portion (frame portion). The touch panel 75 functions as a part of the operation input unit 56a and also functions as a part of the display unit 56b. An operation screen is displayed on the touch panel 75, and an operation input from an operator (user) for the operation screen is accepted.

  The controller 59 is a control device that is built in the external terminal 50 and controls the external terminal 50 in an integrated manner. The controller 59 is configured as a computer system including a CPU and various semiconductor memories (RAM and ROM). The controller 59 implements various processing units by executing predetermined software programs (hereinafter also simply referred to as programs) stored in a storage unit (semiconductor memory or the like) in the CPU. Note that the program may be installed in the external terminal 50 via a portable recording medium such as a USB memory or the network 108.

  The program is an application software program (also referred to as “remote operation application”) for remotely operating the MFP 10 and implements various functions related to the remote operation.

  Specifically, the controller 59 realizes various processing units including a communication control unit 61, an input control unit 62, a display control unit 63, and a coordinate conversion unit 64 by executing this program.

  The communication control unit 61 is a processing unit that controls a communication operation with the MFP 10 or the like in cooperation with the communication unit 54 or the like.

  The input control unit 62 is a processing unit that controls an operation input operation to the operation input unit 56a (the touch panel 75 or the like). For example, the input control unit 62 controls an operation for receiving an operation input on an operation screen or the like.

  The display control unit 63 is a processing unit that controls a display operation in the display unit 56b (touch panel 75 or the like). The display control unit 63 causes the touch panel 75 to display an operation screen for remotely operating the MFP 10.

  The coordinate conversion unit 64 is a processing unit that converts a coordinate value of an operation input by the operator on the touch panel 75 from a coordinate system value on the touch panel 75 of the external terminal 50 to a coordinate system value on the touch panel 25 of the MFP 10. . For example, the coordinate value after conversion by the coordinate conversion unit 64 is transmitted to the MFP 10 by the communication control unit 61 or the like as position information (also referred to as coordinate information) indicating the operation position of the operation input.

<1-4. Operation>
In the first embodiment, the following operation will be described (see FIG. 4). FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an outline of the operation according to the first embodiment.

  First, the user U1 uses the operation panel 6c (touch panel 25 or the like (FIG. 1)) of the MFP 10 to start processing P1 (here, copy processing). In the middle of the copy process P1, another user U2 arrives at the place where the MFP 10 is placed, and informs the user U1 that he / she wants to perform another copy process (second process) P2 having urgency by an interrupt process. I will tell you. The user U1 approves the offer related to the interrupt process P2, the interrupt button 35d (see FIG. 8) is pressed by the user U1 (or U2), and the process P1 of the user U1 is interrupted. Then, an interrupt process (second process) P2 by the user U2 is started using the touch panel 25 of the MFP 10. In parallel with the interrupt process P2, the user U1 uses the external terminal 50 of the user U1 to remotely connect to the MFP 10 and continues to execute the interrupted original copy process (first process) P1. .

  Hereinafter, such an operation will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of the MFP 10, and FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the external terminal 50. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing screen transitions in the MFP 10 and the external terminal 50. In FIG. 7, screen transitions in the MFP 10 are shown in the left column, and screen transitions in the external terminal 50 are shown in the right column. 8-13 is a figure which shows each screen in the said screen transition.

  First, the user U1 inputs login authentication information (such as a user ID and a password) using an authentication screen (not shown) displayed on the touch panel 25 of the MFP 10. The MFP 10 performs processing (login authentication processing) for determining whether or not the login authentication information input by the user U1 is legitimate information.

  When the login authentication information is authenticated as legitimate information, the MFP 10 displays the menu screen 201 (see the uppermost column in the left column of FIG. 7 and FIG. 8) on the touch panel 25. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a menu screen 201 (specifically, a main menu screen related to copy processing). In this menu screen 201, various detailed setting screens relating to copying (“original image quality”, “color”, “density”, “paper”, “magnification”, “duplex / page aggregation”, “finish”) are called. A plurality of buttons (call buttons) 301 to 307 are displayed.

  The user U1 then starts a copy process (first process) P1 using the operation panel 6c (touch panel 25 or the like (FIG. 1)) of the MFP 10. Specifically, first, various setting processes related to the copy process P1 are performed.

  For example, the user U1 can press the “color” button 302 (FIG. 8) to change the setting content related to “color”. Specifically, first, in response to pressing of the “color” button 302, a detailed setting screen 202 (see FIG. 9) regarding “color” is displayed. When the user U1 presses the “auto color” button 321 among the plurality of buttons 321 to 325 in the detailed setting screen 202 (FIG. 9), the MFP 10 changes the setting content regarding the setting item “color” to “black” ( Change the setting from the previous setting) to “Auto Color” (the new setting). FIG. 9 shows a state where the setting content “black” is set for the setting item “color” in the initial state.

  Similarly, the user U1 can perform setting operations regarding various setting items.

  In the middle of the setting operation (setting operation by the user U1) related to the copy process P1, another user U2 arrives at the place where the MFP 10 is placed, and another urgent copy process (second process) is allocated. It is assumed that the user U1 is informed that he / she wants to perform the process. The user U1 approves the request for the interrupt process, and the interrupt button 35d (see FIGS. 8 and 9) of the MFP 10 is pressed by the user U1 (or U2) (step S11 (FIG. 5)).

  At this time, the MFP 10 (determination unit 15) determines that the copy process P1 being performed using the operation panel 6c (specifically, the touch panel 25 or the like) has been interrupted. In other words, the process P1 is interrupted by accepting an interrupt request (pressing operation of the interrupt button 35d) for the process P2 while the process P1 is being executed by the operation panel 6c.

  Further, when the process P1 is interrupted, the MFP 10 (the process control unit 16 or the like) stores information related to the process P1 at the time of the interruption (also referred to as interrupted job information or interrupt process information) in the storage unit 5 of the MFP 10. (Step S12). The interrupted job information includes user identification information (user ID) (see FIG. 14) of the requesting user of the process P1, and screen identification information (screen ID) of the screen displayed when the process P1 is interrupted (see FIG. 15). ) And setting information (mode setting information) related to the process P1 (see FIG. 16). Note that such interrupted job information is also referred to as “takeover information” because it is information that is taken over by an operation using the external terminal 50, as will be described later. Further, the requesting user of the process P1 is also referred to as a suspended user because it is a user immediately before the suspension.

  FIG. 14 shows that “tanaka” is stored as the user ID of the requesting user of process P1, and in FIG. 15, screen 203 (FIG. 15) displayed when process P1 is interrupted. As shown in FIG. 10, “1000” is stored as the screen ID. The screen ID of the screen 203 is the same as the screen ID of the screen 201 (FIG. 8).

  Further, FIG. 16 shows setting information (including information changed from the default value) at the time when the process P1 is interrupted. For example, the setting item “original image quality” is set to the setting content (setting value) “text / photo (printed photo)”, and the setting item “color” is set to the setting content “auto color” (setting value after change). The setting item “density” is set to the setting content “normal”. In addition, the setting item “duplex / page aggregation” is set to the setting content “one side to one side” and “no page aggregation”. Here, the setting contents related to all setting items related to the copy processing are stored as interrupted job information. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in the setting operation related to the process P1, only the setting contents (such as “color”) set to contents different from the initial state (reference value (default value)) are set ( “Auto Color” etc.) may be stored as setting information. According to this, it is possible to reduce the amount of data to be stored.

  After the interruption of the process P1, the user U2 starts an interrupt process (second process) P2 desired by the user U2 using the operation panel 6c (touch panel 25 or the like) of the MFP 10.

  On the other hand, the user U1 uses the external terminal 50 of his / her own to remotely connect to the MFP 10. Specifically, the above-described program (remote operation application) is executed on the external terminal 50, and a screen (not shown) for remote connection to the MFP 10 is displayed. This screen has an input field for user authentication information (for example, user ID and password) of a user who requests remote connection, and a button for issuing a remote connection request (connection request command) to the MFP 10. The user U1 inputs his / her user authentication information in this input field and presses an issue button for issuing a remote connection request to the MFP 10. In response to this, the external terminal 50 issues a remote connection request (connection request command) including the user authentication information, and transmits the remote connection request to the MFP 10 (step S31 (FIG. 6)).

  In step S13, the MFP 10 receives the remote connection request. In other words, the remote connection request from the external terminal 50 is received after the process P1 is interrupted.

  In step S14, the MFP 10 determines whether or not the remote connection request is a remote connection request by the suspended user U1. Specifically, the remote connection request is interrupted based on the user authentication information included in the remote connection request transmitted from the external terminal 50 and the user identification information included in the takeover information stored in the storage unit 5. It is determined whether the request is a remote connection request. For example, on the condition that the user ID included in the remote connection request and the user ID included in the takeover information stored in the storage unit 5 are the same, the remote connection request is a remote connection request by the suspended user U1. Determined.

  Then, on the condition that the remote connection request is determined to be a remote connection request by the suspended user U1, the MFP 10 operates as described below (an operation to continue the suspended process P1 using the external terminal 50). )I do. If it is determined that the remote connection request is not a remote connection request by the interrupted user U1, the MFP 10 determines that a normal remote connection request from a user other than the interrupted user has been received, and the external terminal 50 Remote login processing (in other words, normal processing without taking over the interruption information) is accepted. According to this, continuation of processing by other users can be prevented, and security can be ensured.

  Specifically, if it is determined that the remote connection request is a remote connection request by the suspended user U1, the process proceeds to step S16.

  In step S16, the MFP 10 refers to the screen ID (specific screen identification information (also referred to as specific screen identification information) displayed on the operation panel 6c (touch panel 25) at the time of interruption) included in the takeover information. . Then, the MFP 10 determines the specific screen as a next display screen (screen to be displayed next) on the external terminal 50, and generates image data indicating a screen corresponding to the screen ID of the specific screen.

  Then, the MFP 10 transmits the image data to the external terminal 50 (step S17).

  When the external terminal 50 receives the image data, the external terminal 50 displays a screen 503 based on the image data on the touch panel 75 (see the top row in the right column of FIG. 7) (step S34 (FIG. 6)). FIG. 11 is a diagram showing such a screen 503. As shown in FIG. 11, in response to the menu screen 201 (203) being displayed when the process P1 is interrupted, the screen 503 having the same contents as the menu screen 203 is displayed on the touch panel 75 in step S34. Is done. According to this, regarding the screen transition of the process P1, it is possible to ensure continuity before and after the interruption of the process P1.

  Here, the screen 503 in FIG. 11 indicates that the setting content regarding the setting item “color” is “auto color”. Specifically, in steps S16 and S17, a setting screen related to the setting item “color” (setting screen including the setting item “color”) and the changed setting content (“auto color”) are reflected. Display data for the state setting screen (menu screen) is generated and transmitted to the external terminal 50. Then, based on the display data received from the MFP 10, the external terminal 50 displays the setting screen in a state where the changed setting content (“auto color”) is reflected. According to this, the user U1 can confirm that the setting content by the user's own setting operation up to the point of interruption is reflected in the current setting content.

  The user U1 can further perform the detailed setting process related to the process P1 using the screen 503 (FIG. 11) displayed on the touch panel 75 of the external terminal 50.

  For example, when the call button (call button in the screen 503) 306 of the detailed setting screen regarding the setting item “duplex / page aggregation” is pressed, the detailed setting screen (setting item “double-side / page aggregation”) as shown in FIG. A detailed setting screen) 506 is displayed on the touch panel 75.

  Specifically, first, a touch event related to the touch panel 75 is detected by the external terminal 50 (step S35 (FIG. 6)), and information related to the touch event is transmitted from the external terminal 50 to the MFP 10 (step S36). Specifically, when a call event 306 on the detailed setting screen related to the setting item “double-sided / page aggregation” is pressed and a touch event is detected, position information (coordinate information) of the detection position (pressed position) of the touch event is obtained. The operation input information is transmitted to the MFP 10.

  When the MFP 10 receives the position information of the touch event in step S18 (FIG. 5), the MFP 10 performs a response operation to the touch event.

  Specifically, first, it is determined which button is pressed based on the position information. For example, when it is determined that the pressed position indicated by the position information is within the call button 306 (FIG. 11) of the detailed setting screen of the setting item “duplex / page aggregation”, the call button 306 is pressed. It is determined that it has been done.

  Then, the next screen 506 (specifically, the ID of the next screen) (see FIG. 12) corresponding to the pressing operation (remote operation) of the call button 306 is determined (step S21). After that, again after passing through step S22, the process returns to step S16, the image data of the next screen 506 is generated, and the image data of the next screen 506 is transmitted from the MFP 10 to the external terminal 50 (step S17). Next, a screen 506 as shown in FIG. 12 is displayed on the touch panel 75 based on the image data (step S34).

  Furthermore, in the same manner, the setting content regarding the setting item “both sides / page aggregation” can be changed using the screen 506 (FIG. 12). In the screen 506, buttons 361 to 364, 371 to 374 and the like for performing settings related to the setting items are provided.

  For example, the setting item “duplex / page aggregation” is changed from the previous setting contents (“one side to one side” and “no page aggregation”) to the new setting contents (“double side to both sides” and “ "Pages are not consolidated").

  Specifically, first, a touch event in the touch panel 75 is detected by the external terminal 50 (step S35), and information regarding the touch event is transmitted from the external terminal 50 to the MFP 10 (step S36). Specifically, when a button 364 (“both sides to both sides”) in the detailed setting screen related to the setting item “both sides / page aggregation” is pressed and a touch event is detected, the detection position (pressed position) of the touch event is detected. Position information (coordinate information) is transmitted to the MFP 10 as operation input information.

  When the MFP 10 receives the position information of the touch event in step S18, the MFP 10 executes a response operation to the touch event.

  Specifically, it is determined that the pressed position indicated by the position information is a position in the button 364, and it is determined that the button 364 has been pressed. In this case, it is determined that the operation is a change operation for the setting information (YES in step S19), the setting information is updated, and the updated setting information is stored in the storage unit 5 (step S20). Specifically, with respect to the setting item “double-sided / page aggregation”, new setting contents (“double-sided to double-sided” and “no page aggregation”) are stored.

  Specifically, in step S <b> 20, the setting content (new setting content) changed using the external terminal 50 is also stored in the storage unit 5. Specifically, the setting information including the setting contents defined in the takeover information stored in advance in the storage unit 5 and the setting contents changed using the external terminal 50 is stored as the updated setting information. . In other words, the setting content defined in the takeover information stored in advance in the storage unit 5 is updated with the setting content changed using the external terminal 50, and the updated setting information is updated in step S20. It is stored in the storage unit 5.

  Then, the next screen corresponding to the pressing operation (remote operation) of the button 364 is determined (step S21). Here, a screen (screen in which the button 364 is surrounded by a thick line instead of the button 361) 507 (not shown) in which the button 364 on the screen 506 is changed to the selected state is determined as the “next screen”. However, the screen ID of the next screen 507 is the same as the screen ID of the screen 506.

  After that, again after passing through step S22, the process returns to step S16, the image data of the next screen 507 is generated, and the image data of the next screen 507 is transmitted from the MFP 10 to the external terminal 50 (step S17). Then, the next screen 507 is displayed on the touch panel 75 (step S34). In the next screen 507, the button 364 is changed to the selected state and displayed.

  In this way, the MFP 10 continues to execute the process P1 by the user U1 by remote operation using the touch panel 75 after the process P1 is interrupted by the user U1 using the operation panel 6c. In other words, even after the interruption of the process P1 (step S11), the user U1 can continue to execute the process P1 by using the touch panel 75 of the external terminal 50.

  Further, the user U2 can execute the interrupt process P2 by using the touch panel 25 of the MFP 10. In other words, after interrupting the process P1 by the user U1 using the operation panel 6c, the MFP 10 receives the interrupt process P2 by another user U2 using the operation panel 6c, and executes the interrupt process P2.

  Thus, after the interruption of the process P1 (step S11), the interrupt process P2 by the user U2 based on the operation using the operation panel 6c and the process P1 by the user U1 based on the remote operation using the touch panel 75 are performed in parallel. Executed.

  Thereafter, when the interrupt button 35d is pressed again in response to the end of the interrupt process P2 by the user U2, the MFP 10 determines that the interrupt process P2 by the user U2 has ended (step S22). Then, the process proceeds from step S22 to step S23. In step S <b> 23, the MFP 10 transmits a remote connection end command (in other words, an operation switching command) to the external terminal 50.

  When receiving the termination command (operation switching command), the external terminal 50 proceeds from step S40 to step S42 and performs remote connection termination processing. Thereby, the remote operation by the user U1 using the touch panel 75 is completed.

  Further, after the remote operation by the user U1 using the touch panel 75 is completed, the MFP 10 (the process control unit 16 or the like) executes the original process P1 interrupted by the interrupt process P2 instead of the interrupt process P2. (Step S25). In other words, the user U1 continues to execute the process P1 using the operation panel 6c (touch panel 25 or the like) of the MFP 10.

  At this time, the MFP 10 uses the setting information stored in the storage unit 5 (specifically, including setting information changed in the MFP 10 before the processing is interrupted and setting information updated after the processing is interrupted) and the screen ID. Then, the process P1 is further continued.

  At this time, the same screen as the last screen displayed on the external terminal 50 may be displayed on the touch panel 25 of the MFP 10 based on the takeover information (particularly the screen ID) stored in the storage unit 5. preferable. For example, the same screen 208 (FIG. 7) as the screen 508 (FIG. 7) last displayed on the external terminal 50 is preferably displayed on the touch panel 25 of the MFP 10.

  Further, based on the takeover information (especially setting information) stored in the storage unit 5, the screen that was last displayed on the external terminal 50 also takes over the setting contents, and the touch panel 25 of the MFP 10. Is preferably displayed.

  Thereafter, similarly, the process P1 is executed using various setting screens displayed on the touch panel 25. For example, as part of the process P1, a setting content related to the setting item “finish” can be changed using a screen 209 as shown in FIG. Further, when the start button 35a is pressed, a copy output process (print process (print output process) in the copy process P1) is executed.

  According to the operation as described above, when the process P1 is interrupted after the user U1 starts a certain process P1 using the operation panel 6c of the MFP 10, the process P1 is set to other than the operation panel 6c of the MFP 10 ( Specifically, it is possible to continue by operating the touch panel 75) of the external terminal 50. That is, it is possible to continue using the MFP 10 related to the process P1 without using the operation panel 6c. As a result, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the operability of the user U1.

  In particular, after the interruption of the process P1 (step S11), the interrupt process P2 by the user U2 based on the operation using the operation panel 6c and the process P1 by the user U1 based on the remote operation using the touch panel 75 are executed in parallel. Is done. Therefore, even when the original process P1 is interrupted by the interrupt process P2 of another user U2 and the other user U2 is using the operation panel 6c of the MFP 10, the process P1 is performed using the external terminal 50 (touch panel 75). Can be performed successfully.

  Here, as described above, operation panel 6c of MFP 10 is used only by one user at a certain point in time, and a plurality of users cannot use the operation panel of the image forming apparatus at the same time. Exists. According to the above aspect, the above advantage can be obtained under such circumstances, and thus the above aspect is very useful.

  In the above embodiment, when the process P1 is interrupted, the screen 203 is changed to the screen 503 (FIG. 7), but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the screen 202 may be changed to a screen 502 (not shown). Specifically, when the interrupt button 35d is pressed during setting on the detailed setting screen 202 (FIG. 9), a screen 502 (not shown) similar to the detailed setting screen 202 is displayed immediately after the remote connection is started. May be displayed (step S34).

  Similarly, in the above embodiment, when the process P1 is executed again on the operation panel 6c after the interruption process P2, the screen 508 transitions to the screen 208 (FIG. 7), but the present invention is not limited to this. . For example, the screen 506 may be changed to a screen 206 (not shown). Specifically, when the interrupt button 35d is pressed again during setting on the detailed setting screen 506 (FIG. 12) and the remote connection is terminated, a screen 206 (not shown) similar to the detailed setting screen 506 is displayed remotely. It may be displayed on the touch panel 25 immediately after the connection is completed (step S34).

  The process P1 may be a process other than the copy process (for example, a scan process, a facsimile transmission process, a box print process, etc.).

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

  FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an outline of an operation according to the second embodiment. As can be seen by comparing FIG. 17 and FIG. 4, the operations up to the user ID check process (step S <b> 14) among the operations according to the second embodiment are the same as those in the first embodiment. There are differences in subsequent operations and the like.

  For example, in the first embodiment, setting information updated using the external terminal 50 is updated and stored in the storage unit 5 of the MFP 10 as needed. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, the setting information updated using the external terminal 50 is updated and stored in the storage unit 55 of the external terminal 50 as needed. The updated setting information stored in the storage unit 55 is then transmitted to the MFP 10 at a predetermined timing and stored in the storage unit 5.

  In the first embodiment, image data is generated by the MFP 10 and transmitted to the external terminal 50 as display data for a screen displayed on the external terminal 50. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, as screen display data displayed on the external terminal 50, only the screen ID is transmitted to the external terminal 50, not the image data itself, and the external terminal 50 corresponds to the screen ID. A screen to be generated is generated and displayed.

  Hereinafter, such an operation will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the operation of the MFP 10, and FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the operation of the external terminal 50.

  As shown in FIG. 18, after step S14, the setting information and the screen ID in the takeover information are transmitted from the MFP 10 to the external terminal 50 as screen display data (step S15).

  When the external terminal 50 receives the setting information and the screen ID (step S32), the external terminal 50 generates image data of a specific screen corresponding to the screen ID (step S33). In the storage unit 55 of the external terminal 50, information (screen configuration information) related to the arrangement of component elements in each screen in the MFP 10 and information (image data and the like) of each component element are stored in advance. The external terminal 50 generates image data of the specific screen based on the screen configuration information of the specific screen corresponding to the screen ID received from the MFP 10 and information (image data or the like) of the component elements constituting the specific screen. To do. When an area for displaying “setting information” is included in the specific screen, image data indicating the specific screen reflecting the setting information (for example, the setting content “auto color”) is generated.

  Then, the external terminal 50 displays the specific screen on the touch panel 75 based on the image data (step S34). In other words, based on the display data (screen ID or the like) received from the MFP 10, the specific screen corresponding to the screen ID is displayed.

  Thereafter, the user U1 performs various setting content changing operations and the like by pressing operations on the screen displayed on the touch panel 75 or the like.

  Specifically, when a touch event on the screen displayed on touch panel 75 is detected by external terminal 50 (step S35), external terminal 50 transmits the touch event information to MFP 10 without transmitting the touch event information. Response processing (steps S37 to S39) is executed in the external terminal 50. The processes in steps S37 to S39 are the same as the processes in steps S19 to S21 (FIG. 5) in the first embodiment.

  For example, first, the pressed button is specified based on the pressed position of the touch event. If it is determined that the button is accompanied by a change in the setting contents (YES in step S37), the changed setting information is stored in the storage unit 55 of the external terminal 50 (step S38). That is, updated setting information including setting contents changed using the touch panel 75 is stored in the storage unit 55. For example, regarding the setting item “duplex / page aggregation”, when the button 364 (FIG. 12) is pressed (setting content changing operation is performed), new setting contents (“double-sided to double-sided” and “pages not aggregated”). The updated setting content including “”) is stored in the storage unit 55. Further, the next screen corresponding to the button (more specifically, the screen ID) is determined (step S39). This screen ID is also stored in the storage unit 55.

  Thereafter, the process returns to step S33 again, image data of a new screen is generated based on the screen ID of the next screen, and the new screen is displayed on the touch panel 75 based on the image data (step S34). Thus, a new screen is displayed on the touch panel 75 based on the display data (screen ID) received from the MFP 10.

  Thereafter, the same operation is repeated. In particular, a “detailed setting screen” is displayed on the touch panel 75 as the “next screen”, and setting processing using the detailed setting screen can be performed. Specifically, the touch panel 75 displays a setting item setting screen related to the process P1 (for example, a detailed setting screen 506 (FIG. 12) related to “both sides / page aggregation”) and operation input information on the setting screen. Accept. Further, the remote operation device 50 recognizes the setting contents based on the operation input information, and the updated setting information including the setting contents changed on the setting screen (setting contents recognized based on the operation input information). Is stored in the storage unit 55.

  As a result, during the period in which the interrupt process P2 is executed using the touch panel 25 of the MFP 10, the remote operation related to the process P1 by the external terminal 50 is performed (in parallel).

  Thereafter, when the MFP 10 determines that the interrupt process P2 by the user U2 has ended (YES in step S22), a remote connection end command (operation switching command) is transmitted from the MFP 10 to the external terminal 50. (Step S23).

  On the other hand, when the external terminal 50 receives a remote connection end command (operation switching command) (YES in step S40), the process proceeds to step S41. In step S <b> 41, the updated setting information and screen ID stored in the storage unit 55 of the external terminal 50 are transmitted from the external terminal 50 to the MFP 10. Thereafter, the external terminal 50 performs remote connection termination processing (step S42).

  Here, when the remote connection is terminated, the updated setting information and screen ID are transmitted to the MFP 10, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the updated setting information and screen ID may be transmitted to the MFP 10 at any other timing (for example, at a predetermined time interval during remote connection or for each screen transition).

  When the MFP 10 receives the updated setting information and the screen ID from the external terminal 50 (step S24), the MFP 10 performs a handover process for the received information (step S25). Specifically, the MFP 10 stores the updated setting information and the screen ID in the storage unit 5 and continues the processing P1 based on the updated setting information and the screen ID (however, this time the touch panel 25 is used again). Use) to execute. In other words, after the remote operation by the user U1 using the touch panel 75 is completed, the process P1 is continuously executed based on the updated setting information and the like.

  Also by such an aspect, it is possible to obtain the same effect as that of the first embodiment.

<3. Third Embodiment>
The third embodiment is a modification of the first embodiment and the like. Hereinafter, the difference from the first embodiment will be mainly described.

  In the third embodiment, a remote operation application 153 (not shown) different from that in the first and second embodiments is installed in the external terminal 50. By using the application 153 mainly, remote operation for the MFP 10 is performed. Is done. However, when the remote operation application 153 is used, the image forming apparatus 10 can be remotely operated only for a specific type of processing (such as box print processing). It is assumed that the remote operation application 153 cannot perform a remote operation related to a process of a type other than a specific type (for example, a copy process and a scan process).

  For example, when the process P1 is a specific type of process (for example, a box print process), the external terminal 50 can be remotely operated by the same screen transition as that of the MFP 10.

  On the other hand, when the process P1 is a process of a type other than a specific type (for example, a copy process), it is difficult to continue the process P1 as it is in the remote operation application 153. Therefore, when the remote operation application (also referred to as 151) according to the first embodiment is also installed in the external terminal 50, a message prompting the use of the remote operation application 151 is transmitted to the user U1. Specifically, the remote operation application 151 is used instead of the remote operation application 153 to notify the user U1 that the remote operation from the external terminal 50 should be performed.

  In the third embodiment, such an aspect will be described.

  Moreover, in the said 1st Embodiment etc., the aspect which transmits the image data (or screen ID of a screen) as screen display data is illustrated. On the other hand, in the third embodiment, data described in a page description language (for example, HTML (HyperText Markup Language)) is mainly transmitted as screen display data. The MFP 10 includes a server processing unit. When the server processing unit returns a response (HTTP response or the like) in response to a request (HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) request or the like) from the external terminal 50, screen display data (HTML data) or the like is externally transmitted from the MFP 10. It is transmitted to the terminal 50. In the external terminal 50, a browser based remote operation application 153 displays a screen based on the display data.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the operation of the MFP 10 according to the third embodiment.

  In the third embodiment, the operations up to the user ID check (step S14 (see FIGS. 4 to 6)) are the same as those in the first embodiment. Differences from the first embodiment exist in subsequent operations and the like. In particular, the second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that steps S51 to S59 can be executed after step S14.

  In step S51 after step S14, it is determined whether or not the process P1 to be executed by remote operation by the external terminal 50 is a specific type of process. Specifically, based on the relationship between the screen ID and the screen processing type of the screen ID, it is determined whether or not the processing P1 is a specific type of processing (for example, box printing processing). For example, when it is determined that the screen corresponding to the screen ID is a screen related to the copy process based on the screen ID (“1000”) stored in step S12, the process P1 is a process other than the specific type. It is determined that there is.

  If the process P1 is a specific type of process (for example, a box print process), the process by the remote operation application according to the third embodiment is continued as it is (step S52). Specifically, the same operation as that after step S16 (FIG. 5) is executed. However, in the remote operation application 153 according to the third embodiment, data described in a page description language (HTML or the like) is transmitted from the MFP 10 to the external terminal 50 as display data for each screen. In the external terminal 50, a screen based on the display data (for example, the screen 235 (see FIG. 25)) is displayed, and an operation input is performed on the screen. FIG. 25 is a diagram showing a setting screen 235 related to the print setting process in the box print process. Then, the external terminal 50 transmits information (operation input information) related to the setting content input using the screen to the MFP 10. Such an operation is repeated as appropriate.

  On the other hand, when the process P1 is a process of a type other than the specific type (for example, a copy process), it is difficult to continue the process P1 as it is by the remote operation application 153 according to the third embodiment. Therefore, when the remote operation application (also referred to as 151) according to the first embodiment is also installed in the external terminal 50, a message prompting the use of the remote operation application 151 is transmitted to the user U1. Specifically, the remote operation application 151 is used instead of the remote operation application 153 to notify the user U1 that the remote operation from the external terminal 50 should be performed.

  Therefore, in step S53, it is determined whether or not the remote operation application 151 is installed.

  If the remote operation application 151 is installed, it is determined that another remote operation method exists, and the process proceeds to step S54. In step S 54, display data (HTML data) for the inquiry screen 231 (see FIG. 21) is generated in the MFP 10, and the display data is transmitted to the external terminal 50. When the external terminal 50 receives the display data, the external terminal 50 displays a screen 231 on the touch panel 75 based on the display data. The screen 231 shows, “The process executed before the interruption cannot be continued by the browser operation of this application (application 153). Do you want to reconnect with another application (remote panel) (application 151)?” It has a word concerning the inquiry. That is, on the screen 231, a message prompting the use of the remote operation application 151 is displayed.

  In response to the inquiry on the screen 231, the user U <b> 1 of the external terminal 50 presses one of the buttons “YES” and “NO” in the screen 231. The external terminal 50 transmits information on the pressed button (inquiry result) to the MFP 10. When the MFP 10 receives the inquiry result (step S55), it performs a branching process (step S56) according to the content.

  If it is determined that the user U1 has pressed the YES button, the process proceeds from step S56 to step S57. In step S57, the user U1 operates the touch panel 75 to end the remote operation application 153 and start the remote operation application 151. The remote operation application 151 is used to remotely control the user U1 as in the first embodiment. Perform the operation. The remote operation application 151 may be automatically invoked by being called from the remote operation application 153.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the user U1 has pressed the NO button, the process proceeds from step S56 to step S58. In step S <b> 58, the MFP 10 generates display data for the confirmation screen 233 (see FIG. 23) and transmits it to the external terminal 50. When the external terminal 50 receives the display data, the external terminal 50 displays a screen 233 on the touch panel 75 based on the display data. The screen 233 includes a message “Please wait for the MFP to become free”.

  When the remote operation application 151 is not installed, it is determined that there is no other remote operation method, and the process proceeds from step S53 to step S59. In step S <b> 59, the MFP 10 generates display data for the confirmation screen 232 (see FIG. 22) and transmits it to the external terminal 50. When the external terminal 50 receives the display data, the external terminal 50 displays a screen 232 on the touch panel 75 based on the display data. The screen 232 has a message “The process executed before the interruption cannot be continued by the browser operation of this application. Please wait for the MFP to become free”.

  The above operation may be performed.

  In the above, when the process P1 is a process of a type other than a specific type (for example, a copy process), the use of the remote operation application 151 is promoted, and basically the remote operation application 153 is terminated. However, it is not limited to this. Specifically, the MFP 10 may classify the process P1 into a plurality of sub-processes and execute an operation (setting operation) related to a sub-process that can be executed by the application 153 among the plurality of sub-processes. In this case, the MFP 10 diverts all or part of the existing display data for another screen related to the process similar to the sub-process, and generates display data (HTML data) for the screen. The display data may be transmitted to the external terminal 50 and displayed on the remote operation application 153.

  For example, the MFP 10 may separate the copy process P1 into a scan process and a print process, and display only the setting screen related to the print process on the external terminal 50. More specifically, in step S59, the MFP 10 first generates display data for the screen 234 (FIG. 24) instead of generating display data for the screen 232. Then, the display data of the screen 234 is transmitted to the external terminal 50 and displayed by the remote operation application 153. The screen 234 describes a word for asking for understanding that only a part of the process P1 can be executed. When the YES button is pressed on the screen 234 and information on the pressed button is transmitted from the external terminal 50 to the MFP 10, the user understands that the MFP 10 can only perform settings related to part of the process P1. Determine. Then, the MFP 10 generates the image data of the setting screen 236 (FIG. 26) related to the printing process in the copy process P 1, transmits it to the external terminal 50, and causes the remote operation application 153 to display it. The user U1 can perform a setting operation using the setting screen 236. The display data (HTML data) on the setting screen 236 (FIG. 26) related to the print processing is the display data (HTML data) on the existing separate screen 235 (FIG. 25) related to the print setting processing of the box print processing. It may be generated by diverting.

  In this way, only the print setting process in the copy process P1 may be executed.

<4. Modified example>
Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the contents described above.

  For example, in each of the above embodiments, a mode in which a user authentication process (login process) related to the user U1 is performed and the user ID of the user in use (U1) is grasped is illustrated, but the present invention is not limited to this. Specifically, the user U1 starts a process using the touch panel 25 without a login process, interrupts the process, and then establishes a remote connection with the MFP 10 in the external terminal 50 without a login process. You may be made to do. For example, when a high security level is not required, the MFP 10 confirms that the user connected to the user remotely (based on the user ID sent from the external terminal 50 is “suspended user”). The remote connection user may be allowed to continue the interruption process (interrupt job) without performing the above.

  Further, the process P1 in the first embodiment or the like may include a preview process (real-time preview or the like). In this case, the following process may be performed.

  A document is set on an automatic document feeder (ADF: Auto Document Feeder) or the like of the MFP 10 and scanning processing (document reading processing) is started. The scanning processing (scan image generation processing) and the scanning image preview processing ( Assume a situation in which the interrupt button 35d is pressed while the (real-time preview) is being executed. At this time, the MFP 10 executes (completes) the scan process in the copy process P1 to the end with priority over the interrupt process P2, and then interrupts the process P1. In other words, the scan image generation process is executed before the process P1 is interrupted (until a certain period after the interrupt instruction (pressing the interrupt button 35d)). As described above, the process P1 is not interrupted immediately in response to the interruption instruction (pressing the interrupt button 35d), but may be interrupted after a certain period of time has elapsed after the interruption instruction. Good. Further, the MFP 10 stores the document image (image data) generated by the scanning process in the storage unit 5. Note that the preview process is interrupted when the interrupt button 35d is pressed or when the scan process is completed. In other words, the process P1 is interrupted during the preview process.

  Thereafter, when the process P1 is continuously executed using the touch panel 75 of the external terminal 50, the interrupted preview process is continuously executed. For example, when the preview process has been completed from the first page to the 20th page among all 100 pages of the document, the scan process is resumed from the next 21st page. In this case, the process shown in FIG. 27 may be performed in step S16 of FIG.

  Specifically, first, in step S75, it is determined whether or not the specific screen corresponding to the screen ID included in the transfer information uses a scanned image. If the specific screen (the screen displayed on the operation panel 6c (touch panel 25) when the process P1 is interrupted) is a real-time preview screen, the specific screen indicates that the scan image is used. Determined. Then, the process proceeds from step S75 to step S76.

  In step S76, the scanned image stored in the storage unit 5 is read (extracted), and in step S77, image data is generated based on the scanned image, the screen ID, and the setting information. Specifically, the scanned image of the page at the time of interruption (for example, the 21st page) is selected as the first target image in the preview, and image data including the first target image (preview image) is generated. On the screen based on the image data, the setting information stored in the storage unit 5 (setting information regarding the process P1) is reflected as necessary.

  Thereafter, the image data is transmitted from the MFP 10 to the external terminal 50 (step S17 (FIG. 5)). Further, the processing after step S18 is also sequentially performed.

  As a result, the preview related to the process P1 is resumed on the touch panel 75 of the external terminal 50 using the scan image generated before the interruption of the process P1. Here, the preview is resumed from the interrupted page, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the preview may be resumed from the first page or the like. Thereafter, the preview may be executed automatically and continuously up to the last page.

  Further, various processes following the preview process (for example, blank sheet removal process and print setting process) can be continuously executed.

  The above modifications can be made. Similar modifications can be made to the second embodiment and the like.

  Here, the scan image generation process is incomplete at the time of interruption instruction (when the interrupt button 35d is pressed) (it is executed until a certain period of time immediately after the interruption instruction has passed). It is not limited to this, and it may already be completed at the point of interruption instruction.

  Alternatively, if the scan image generation process is not yet started when the interrupt button 35d is pressed, the process P1 is interrupted after the scan image generation process of the process P1 is started and terminated. You may make it do.

  More specifically, when the interrupt button 35d is pressed while the document is set on the ADF, the scanning process is automatically started (or after the confirmation screen is displayed), and after the scanning process is completed. The process P1 may be interrupted. Thereafter, similarly, the process P1 may be continuously executed in the external terminal 50, and the preview process in the process P1 may be executed.

  In each of the above embodiments and the like, an interrupt request (interruption instruction) is given by pressing the interrupt button 35d and the process P1 is interrupted based on the interrupt request. However, the present invention is not limited to this.

  For example, an interruption instruction may be given by pressing the reset button 35c, and the process P1 may be interrupted based on the interruption instruction. Further, when the reset button 35c is pressed again, it may be determined that the interrupt process P2 by the user U2 has ended.

  Moreover, in each said embodiment etc., although the situation where the user U1 interrupts own process P1 for the interruption process of the user U2 is illustrated, this invention is not limited to this. For example, the present invention can also be applied to a situation in which the process P1 is interrupted when the user U1 once leaves the MFP 10 due to his / her own desire (due to the circumstances of the user U1) after the process P1 is started by the user U1. is there.

  More specifically, it is assumed that after the user U1 operates the touch panel 25 of the MFP 10 to start the process P1, the user U1 temporarily leaves the MFP 10 (for example, temporarily moving to his seat). Further, it is assumed that, while the user U1 is away from the MFP 10, another user U2 presses the reset button (setting content reset button) 35c to execute the process P2 of the user U2.

  At this time, various setting contents are reset by pressing the reset button 35c. In other words, the interruption of the process P1 of the user U1 occurs in response to the pressing operation of the setting content reset button provided in the MFP 10. Even in such a case, when the process P1 is interrupted, the information regarding the process P1 (takeover information) at the time of the interrupt may be stored in the storage unit 5 as in the above-described embodiments.

  Thereafter, when the user U1 recognizes that the user U2 is operating the touch panel 25 of the MFP 10, for example, the user U1 uses his / her external terminal 50 to perform remote connection to the MFP 10 in the same manner as in the above embodiments. Then, the suspended process P1 is resumed and executed. Specifically, in response to a remote connection request from the external terminal 50, the process P1 by the user U1 is performed on the touch panel based on setting information included in the takeover information (takeover information regarding the process P1) stored in the storage unit 5. Processing such as subsequent execution using 75 may be performed.

  Note that the button for giving the interruption instruction is not limited to the interrupt button 35d and the reset button 35c, but may be other buttons. The buttons for instructing the cancellation of the interrupted state (such as the end of the interrupt process P2 by the user U2) are not limited to the interrupt button 35d and the reset button 35c, and are other buttons (for example, a recall button). Also good. Further, the button for giving the interruption instruction and the button for instructing the cancellation of the interruption state may be different buttons.

  In each of the above embodiments, etc., it is determined that the process P1 is interrupted based on an explicit interruption instruction operation (such as pressing various buttons). However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when a predetermined no-operation period (for example, 2 minutes) elapses during an operation related to the process P1 (during operation using the touch panel 25), the MFP 10 automatically resets the setting contents (temporary setting contents are reset to initial values When the process is performed, the MFP 10 may determine that the process P1 is interrupted. Similarly in this case, the takeover information (setting information immediately before the reset) at the time of interruption of the process P1 may be stored in the storage unit 5. Thereafter, the user U1 may use his / her external terminal 50 to perform remote connection to the MFP 10 in the same manner as in the above embodiments, and resume and execute the suspended process P1. At this time, in response to a remote connection request from the external terminal 50, the MFP 10 may continue to execute the process P1 by the user U1 using the touch panel 75 based on the takeover information.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming system 6c Operation panel 10 MFP (image forming apparatus)
25 (MFP) touch panel 35a Start button 35c Reset button 35d Interrupt button 50 External terminal (remote control device)
75 Touch panel (of external terminal) 151 Remote operation application 153 Remote operation application

Claims (22)

An image forming system,
An image forming apparatus;
A remote operation device capable of remotely operating the image forming apparatus;
With
The image forming apparatus includes:
A first operating means for receiving an operation input from a user;
Determining means for determining interruption of processing using the first operating means;
When the first process executed by the first user using the first operating means is interrupted, the first process stores information related to the first process at the time of the interruption as takeover information. Storage means;
First communication means for receiving a remote connection request from the remote operation device after interruption of the first processing by the first operation means;
Have
The remote control device is:
A second operating means for receiving an operation input from a user;
Second communication means for transmitting the remote connection request to the image forming apparatus;
Have
The image forming apparatus includes:
When the remote connection request is received from the remote operation device, the first process by the first user is continuously performed using the second operation unit based on the setting information included in the takeover information. Control means;
And an image forming system. The image forming system according to claim 1,
The process control means is based on user authentication information included in the remote connection request transmitted from the remote operation device and user identification information included in the takeover information stored in the first storage means. If it is determined that the remote connection request is a remote connection request by the first user, the first process by the first user is performed based on setting information included in the takeover information. An image forming system that is continuously executed using the operation means. The image forming system according to claim 1 or 2,
The takeover information includes specific screen identification information that is identification information of a specific screen displayed on the first operation means at the time of the interruption,
The first communication means transmits display data for the specific screen based on the specific screen identification information to the remote control device,
The image forming system, wherein the second operation unit displays the specific screen based on the display data received from the image forming apparatus. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The first communication means transmits display data for a setting item setting screen related to the first processing to the remote control device,
The second operation means displays the setting screen based on the display data of the setting screen received from the image forming apparatus, and receives operation input information on the setting screen;
The second communication unit transmits the operation input information to the image forming apparatus,
The processing control unit updates the setting information based on the operation input information, and stores the updated setting information in the first storage unit. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The first communication means transmits the setting information included in the takeover information to the remote control device,
The second operation means displays a setting item setting screen related to the first process, and receives operation input information on the setting screen,
The remote control device is:
Second storage means for storing updated setting information including setting contents changed on the setting screen and recognized based on the operation input information;
Further comprising
The image forming system, wherein the second communication unit transmits the updated setting information stored in the second storage unit to the image forming apparatus at a predetermined timing. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The process control means further continues the first process based on the updated setting information after the remote operation by the first user using the second operation means is completed. Image forming system. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
The first process is a process including a scan image generation process and a scan image preview process;
The first process is interrupted in the middle of the preview process, and the scan image generation process is executed before the first process is interrupted,
When receiving the remote connection request from the remote operation device, the processing control means transmits the scan image generated before the interruption of the first processing to the remote operation device, and An image forming system, wherein the preview processing is executed by a second operation means. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
The processing control means includes
After the interruption of the first process by the first user using the first operation means, a second process by a second user different from the first user is performed by the first operation means. Accepted using
The second process by the second user based on an operation using the first operation means and the first process by the first user based on a remote operation using the second operation means. An image forming system that is executed in parallel. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
The interruption of the first process occurs when an interrupt request for a process different from the first process is accepted during the execution of the first process by the first operating means. An image forming system. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
The interruption of the first processing occurs in response to a pressing operation of a setting content reset button provided in the image forming apparatus. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
The first process is determined to have been interrupted when a predetermined no-operation period has elapsed during the operation of the first process and a setting content reset process has been automatically performed. Image forming system. An image forming apparatus that can be remotely operated by a remote operation device,
A first operating means for receiving an operation input from a user;
Determining means for determining interruption of processing using the first operating means;
When the first process executed by the first user using the first operating means is interrupted, the first process stores information related to the first process at the time of the interruption as takeover information. Storage means;
First communication means for receiving a remote connection request from the remote operation device after interruption of the first processing by the first operation means;
When receiving the remote connection request from the remote operation device, based on the setting information included in the handover information, the first user uses the second operation means for receiving an operation input from the user in the remote operation device. Processing control means for continuously executing the first processing according to
An image forming apparatus comprising: The image forming apparatus according to claim 12.
The process control means is based on user authentication information included in the remote connection request transmitted from the remote operation device and user identification information included in the takeover information stored in the first storage means. If it is determined that the remote connection request is a remote connection request by the first user, the first process by the first user is performed based on setting information included in the takeover information. The image forming apparatus is continuously executed using the operation means. The image forming apparatus according to claim 12 or 13,
The takeover information includes specific screen identification information that is identification information of a specific screen displayed on the first operation means at the time of the interruption,
The first communication means transmits display data for the specific screen based on the specific screen identification information to the remote operation device, and causes the second operation means to display the specific screen. Forming equipment. 15. The image forming apparatus according to claim 12, wherein:
The first communication means transmits display data of a setting item setting screen related to the first processing to the remote operation device, and causes the second operation means to display the setting screen.
The processing control unit updates the setting information based on operation input information received on the setting screen, and stores the updated setting information in the first storage unit. Image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 12 to 15,
The process control means further continues the first process based on the updated setting information after the remote operation by the first user using the second operation means is completed. Image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to claim 12, wherein:
The first process is a process including a scan image generation process and a scan image preview process;
The first process is interrupted in the middle of the preview process, and the scan image generation process is executed before the first process is interrupted,
When receiving the remote connection request from the remote operation device, the processing control means transmits the scan image generated before the interruption of the first processing to the remote operation device, and An image forming apparatus, wherein the preview processing is executed by a second operation means. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 12 to 17,
The processing control means includes
After the interruption of the first process by the first user using the first operation means, a second process by a second user different from the first user is performed by the first operation means. Accepted using
The second process by the second user based on an operation using the first operation means and the first process by the first user based on a remote operation using the second operation means. An image forming apparatus that is executed in parallel. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 12 to 18,
The interruption of the first process occurs when an interrupt request for a process different from the first process is accepted during the execution of the first process by the first operating means. An image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 12 to 18,
The interruption of the first processing occurs in response to a pressing operation of a setting content reset button provided in the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 12 to 18,
The first process is determined to have been interrupted when a predetermined no-operation period has elapsed during the operation of the first process and a setting content reset process has been automatically performed. Image forming apparatus. In the computer built in the image forming apparatus remotely operated by the remote operation device,
a) determining interruption of processing using the first operation means for accepting an operation input from a user;
b) When the first process executed by the first user using the first operation unit is interrupted, information on the first process at the time of the interruption is stored in the first information of the image forming apparatus. Storing as takeover information in one storage means;
c) receiving a remote connection request from the remote operation device after interruption of the first process by the first operation means;
d) When receiving the remote connection request from the remote operation device, based on setting information included in the takeover information, the second operation means that receives an operation input from a user in the remote operation device, Continuing to execute the first process by the user;
A program for running