JP2018034475A - Image formation apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To notify a user of a possibility that a setting value is not correct on the basis of the history to prevent a job in which a desired result cannot be obtained from being executed.SOLUTION: An image formation apparatus includes: a job execution unit; an operation unit which receives the setting of a setting value and the execution instruction of the job; a display panel; a storage unit which stores the current setting value information of the job and the history containing the setting value of the job instructed to be executed; and a control unit which controls the job execution unit. The control unit displays a success key and a failure key after the execution instruction of the job, and stores the history at the time when the failure key is operated as the failure history. When the setting value is set, the control unit retrieves the overlap history being the failure history having the same setting value as the current setting value, and when there is the overlap history, displays a warning screen for notifying of the possibility of job failure.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus that includes a display panel and operation keys, accepts a setting value of a user, and performs a job based on the setting value.

  There are image forming apparatuses such as multifunction peripherals, printers, copiers, and fax machines. Some image forming apparatuses can display an execution history of jobs performed in the past. An example of an image forming apparatus that displays such a job execution history is described in Patent Document 1.

  Specifically, Patent Document 1 stores a plurality of input image information, and stores and stores a plurality of image forming jobs for reading any stored image information and performing image forming processing on a recording medium. Sequentially controls the execution of multiple image forming jobs, accepts multiple image forming jobs, stores the execution histories of executed multiple image forming jobs, and displays the stored execution histories of the respective image forming jobs An image forming apparatus is described. The job reception time, job processing end time, execution result, image processing mode, file name, and host name of the host computer are stored as an execution history. With this configuration, the execution history of image forming jobs performed in the past is displayed so that the end status of the image forming job can be easily grasped. (Patent Document 1: Claim 2, paragraph [0175], FIG. 7).

JP 2000-029644 A

  An image forming apparatus such as a multifunction machine, a printer, a copier, or a FAX apparatus may be provided with a display panel with a touch panel. Various screens are displayed on the display panel. For example, the display panel displays a screen for selecting a job to be executed, a selection screen for items to be set in the selected job, and a setting screen for setting values of the selected item. In the screen, operation images such as soft keys, buttons, and tabs are arranged. Further, an operation hard key may be provided outside the display panel.

  The user sets by touching the operation image or hard key. The touch panel detects the operated operation image. Setting values related to the job are set by the user's operation. After the setting is completed, the user issues a job execution instruction. The execution of the job is started with the execution instruction as a trigger. The image forming apparatus performs a job according to the set value.

  Image forming apparatuses are becoming increasingly multifunctional. There are many types of items that can be set and the number of setting values that can be set. Some users feel that the setting in the image forming apparatus is complicated. In some cases, the setting value may be omitted or a setting value may be selected incorrectly. When a job execution instruction is issued without noticing a setting omission or selection mistake, all setting values are incorrect, and the user cannot obtain a desired result. The job fails, and paper and power are wasted.

  In the technique described in Patent Document 1, an execution history is stored. However, in Patent Document 1, the execution history is confirmed after the job is executed. The execution history is not referred to when the job is actually started. Therefore, the technique described in Patent Document 1 cannot solve the above problem.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems of the prior art, and informs the user that there is a possibility that the setting value is not correct based on the history so that a job that cannot obtain a desired result is not executed.

  In order to solve the above problem, an image forming apparatus according to a first aspect includes a job execution unit, an operation unit, a display panel, a storage unit, and a control unit. The job execution unit operates during job execution. The operation unit accepts setting values for each item that can be set in a job, and accepts a job execution instruction. The display panel displays a screen for determining set values. The storage unit stores current setting value information indicating a setting value of a job to be executed, and a history including setting values of a job instructed to be executed. The control unit controls the job execution unit to cause the job execution unit to perform an operation according to the current set value information. The storage unit stores the history for each job for which the execution instruction has been given. The control unit displays a success key and a failure key on the display panel after the execution instruction is given, and the storage unit stores the history of the job in which the success key is operated as a success history in which a job can be correctly set. And the history of the job for which the failure key has been operated is stored in the storage unit as a failure history in which the job setting is incorrect. Further, when the set value is set, the control unit searches for a duplicate history that is the failure history having the same set value as the currently set value, and when there is the duplicate history, a job failure is possible. A caution screen for informing the user is displayed on the display panel.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to notify the user of the possibility that the setting value is incorrect based on the history. It is possible to prevent execution of a job that cannot obtain a desired result. An image forming apparatus that is easy to use and easy to set can be provided.

1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a multifunction machine according to an embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the operation panel which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the home screen which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the item selection screen which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the setting value setting screen which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the log | history list screen of the log | history which concerns on embodiment. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a setting evaluation flow in the multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the evaluation window which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the log | history list screen of the log | history which concerns on embodiment. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of reproduction processing and solution history storage in the multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of alerting the user in the multifunctional device which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the attention screen which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the solution proposal display screen which concerns on embodiment.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the following description, the multifunction peripheral 100 will be described as an example of the image forming apparatus. However, each element such as configuration and arrangement described in this embodiment does not limit the scope of the invention and is merely an illustrative example.

(Outline of image forming apparatus)
First, an outline of the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment.

  The multifunction device 100 includes an operation panel 1 and a control unit 2. The control unit 2 controls each unit of the multifunction device 100. The control unit 2 includes a CPU 21, an image processing unit 21, a ROM 23 (a part of the storage unit 28), a RAM 24 (a part of the storage unit 28), and a controller 25. The CPU 21 performs various calculations and processes. Then, the CPU 21 controls each unit of the multifunction machine 100. For example, the image processing unit 21 is an ASIC. The image processing unit 21 performs image processing on the image data. The image processing unit 21 generates image data used for a job such as printing or transmission. The controller 25 is a circuit that performs control related to the operation panel 1.

  The multi-function device 100 includes a storage 26 (a part of the storage unit 28). The storage 26 is a large-capacity nonvolatile storage device such as an HDD. The storage 26 is communicably connected to the control unit 2. The multi-function device 100 includes a non-volatile storage device such as a ROM 23 and a storage 26 and a volatile storage device such as a RAM 24. The CPU 21 performs operations and processes based on programs and control data stored in the ROM 23, RAM 24, and storage 26 to control each part of the multifunction peripheral 100.

  The multifunction peripheral 100 is provided with a document conveying unit 3a and an image reading unit 3b. A document is set on the document transport unit 3a. The control unit 2 automatically and continuously conveys the document one by one to the document transport unit 3a. The document is conveyed toward a reading position (feed reading contact glass, not shown). The control unit 2 causes the image reading unit 3b to read a document conveyed by the document conveying unit 3a and a document set on a placement reading contact glass (not shown). The image reading unit 3b generates image data of the read document.

  The printing unit 4 is provided inside the multifunction device 100. The printing unit 4 includes a paper feed unit 4a, a paper transport unit 4b, an image forming unit 4c, and a fixing unit 4d. The printing unit 4 performs printing in accordance with a user setting on the operation panel 1. At the time of printing, the control unit 2 causes the paper supply unit 4a to supply the paper. The control unit 2 causes the supplied paper to be transported to the paper transport unit 4b. The control unit 2 causes the image forming unit 4c to form a toner image based on the image data. The control unit 2 causes the image forming unit 4c to transfer the toner image onto the conveyed paper. The control unit 2 causes the fixing unit 4d to heat and press the sheet on which the toner image is transferred. As a result, the toner image is fixed on the paper. The paper after fixing is discharged out of the machine.

  The control unit 2 is connected to the communication unit 27. The communication unit 27 communicates with a computer 200 such as a PC or a server or a FAX apparatus 300 via a communication network 400. The communication unit 27 is a network interface board. The communication unit 27 includes a communication connector and a communication control chip. When the communication unit 27 receives print data (image data or print settings) from the computer 200, the control unit 2 causes the printing unit 4 to perform printing (printer job). The communication unit 27 can transmit image data obtained by reading a document to the computer 200 or the FAX apparatus 300 (transmission job).

(Operation panel 1)
Next, an example of the operation panel 1 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation panel 1 according to the embodiment.

  The multi-function device 100 includes an operation panel 1. The operation panel 1 includes a display panel 10, a touch panel 11 (corresponding to an operation unit), and a plurality of hard keys 12 (corresponding to an operation unit). The display panel 10 displays screens and various messages related to jobs such as printing and scanning. A touch panel 11 is provided for the display panel 10.

  As shown in FIG. 2, a display panel 10 is provided on the upper side of the operation panel 1. A touch panel 11 is provided on the upper surface of the display panel 10. A plurality of hard keys 12 are provided outside the display panel 10 and the touch panel 11. The control unit 2 (controller 25) is connected to the display panel 10. The control unit 2 controls display on the display panel 10.

  The control unit 2 (controller 25) is connected to the touch panel 11. The display panel 10 displays an operation image. The operation image is an image for operation such as a soft key, a button, a tab, a check box, and a radio button. Based on the output of the touch panel 11, the control unit 2 (controller 25) recognizes the operated operation image (operation position). Thereby, the control part 2 recognizes a user's operation content. The control unit 2 causes the display panel 10 to display a screen corresponding to the operated operation image.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the operation panel 1 includes a plurality of hard keys 12. Each hard key 12 is connected to a controller 25. For example, as the hard key 12, a start key 12a and a numeric keypad 12b are provided. The start key 12a is a key for instructing job execution with the set contents. The numeric keypad 12b is a key for inputting numbers such as the number of copies and numbers. The control unit 2 recognizes the user's operation content by the hard key 12. The control unit 2 causes the display panel 10 to display a screen corresponding to the operated hard key 12.

  The operation panel 1 accepts a setting operation by the user. For example, the operation panel 1 receives a setting value setting operation for each item that can be set in a job. The operation panel 1 also accepts job execution instructions. Based on signals from the touch panel 11 and the hard keys 12, the control unit 2 recognizes the user's operation content (setting content). The control unit 2 operates a job execution unit such as the printing unit 4 so that a result matching the setting is obtained.

(Screen display on operation panel 1)
Next, an example of display on the operation panel 1 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the home screen 13 according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the item selection screen 14 according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the setting value setting screen 15 according to the embodiment.

  The home screen 13 shown in FIG. 3 is the highest screen in the hierarchy. The controller 2 displays the home screen 13 on the display panel 10 at the following times. For example, when the MFP 100 (operation panel 1) is activated by turning on the main power, when the power saving mode in which the display panel 10 is turned off is canceled, a predetermined auto-reset time is left without any operation after the user's operation. When elapses, the home screen 13 is displayed when an operation for displaying the home screen 13 is performed.

  The control unit 2 displays a plurality of job selection keys K1 in the home screen 13. The job selection key K1 is a software key for selecting a job to be used (type of job to be executed). Each job selection key K1 is assigned an image indicating a job that can be selected. A job type (function) such as a copy job, a scan transmission job, a FAX transmission job, or a box job can be selected by operating the job selection key K1. Of the job selection key K1, the copy key K1a is a key for selecting a copy job. The scan transmission key K1b is a key for selecting a scan transmission job. The FAX transmission key K1c is a key for selecting a FAX transmission job.

  In the copy job, the original is read by the original conveying unit 3a and the image reading unit 3b. Image data obtained by reading is transferred to the RAM 24. The image processing unit 21 performs image processing on the image data obtained by reading. The printing unit 4 performs printing based on the image data processed by the image processing unit 21. For example, in the case of a copy job, the control unit 2 operates the document conveying unit 3a, the image reading unit 3b, the RAM 24, the image processing unit 21, and the printing unit 4 as job execution units.

  In the scan transmission job and the FAX transmission job, the original is read by the original conveyance unit 3a and the image reading unit 3b. Image data obtained by reading is transferred to the RAM 24. The image processing unit 21 performs image processing on the image data obtained by reading. The communication unit 27 transmits the image data processed by the image processing unit 21 to a destination set on the operation panel 1. For example, in the case of various transmission jobs, the control unit 2 causes the document conveyance unit 3a, the image reading unit 3b, the RAM 24, the image processing unit 21, and the communication unit 27 to operate as job execution units. In addition, jobs such as a box storage job and a box print job can be selected and executed, but a detailed description is omitted.

  As described above, the touch panel 11 accepts an operation on the job selection key K1 as an operation for selecting a job (type and function). The control unit 2 recognizes the selected job type based on the output of the touch panel 11. The control unit 2 causes the display panel 10 to display an item selection screen 14 corresponding to the selected job type.

  FIG. 4 shows an example of the item selection screen 14 displayed when the copy key K1a is operated. FIG. 4 shows an example of the copy job item selection screen 14. The item selection screen 14 is prepared for each job other than copying, such as scan transmission, FAX transmission, box storage, and box printing. However, illustration and detailed description of the item selection screen 14 for jobs other than copy jobs are omitted.

  The control unit 2 causes the display panel 10 to display the item selection screen 14 including the first area F1 and the second area F2. The control unit 2 displays a plurality of item selection keys K2 in the first area F1. The item selection key K2 is a key for selecting an item (item that can be set in the selected job). FIG. 4 shows an example in which item selection keys K2 for document size, reduction / enlargement, paper selection, duplex / division, page aggregation, and number of copies are displayed in the first area F1. A display field L1 for displaying the current set value of the item is provided above each item selection key K2.

  The control unit 2 displays the navigation image i1 in the second area F2. There is a limit to the number of item selection keys K2 that can be displayed in the first area F1. There are many items that can be set for the selected job (several tens or more for a copy job alone). Each item is assigned to any category. FIG. 4 shows an example in which categories such as basic setting, paper / original / finishing, color, image quality, layout / editing, application / other are provided as categories. Other category names may be used. FIG. 4 shows a navigation image i1 in which category selection keys K3 corresponding to the categories are arranged in the vertical direction. The number of categories may be different from the example of FIG.

  The user can select a category by operating the category selection key K3 in the navigation image i1. When the selection of the category is recognized based on the output of the touch panel 11, the control unit 2 displays the item selection key K2 assigned (corresponding) to the selected category in the first area F1. Thereby, the displayed item selection key K2 is switched.

  For example, items that are frequently set (used) empirically and statistically belong to the basic setting category. FIG. 4 shows an example of a state in which the basic setting category is selected. In this category, items of document size, reduction / enlargement, paper selection, duplex / division, page aggregation, and number of copies are assigned. As described above, the control unit 2 causes the display panel 10 to display the item selection key K2 determined to belong to the category selected by the operation.

  The user can select an item to be set by operating the item selection key K2. The control unit 2 causes the display panel 10 to display (switch) the set value setting screen 15 corresponding to the operated item selection key K2. That is, the display panel 10 displays a screen for determining the set value. The set value setting screen 15 is facilitated for each item. There are a plurality of setting value setting screens 15. FIG. 5 shows an example of the setting value setting screen 15 displayed when the duplex / split item is selected.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the set value setting screen 15 is provided with a set value key K4 (soft key) for each settable set value. A set value is entered in each set value key K4. The user operates the set value key K4 in the set value setting screen 15. Thereby, the setting value of the selected item can be set. FIG. 5 shows an example of a state in which the setting value of single side → double side is set in the double side / divide item. When the setting value setting is completed, the user operates the OK key K5. When the OK key K5 is operated, the control unit 2 displays the item selection screen 14 on the display panel 10.

(Storage of current set value information D2 and storage of history 5)
Next, storage of the current setting value information D2 in the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the history list screen 16 of the history 5 according to the embodiment.

  First, default setting values are defined for each item. For example, in the duplex / split item of a copy job, a setting value of one side → one side (no duplex printing) is defined as a default value. Default value data D1 defining the default setting value of each item is stored in the storage 26 (storage unit 28) (see FIG. 1). The default value can be changed. The operation panel 1 accepts an operation for changing a default value of a desired item.

  The RAM 24 (storage unit 28) stores current set value information D2. The current set value information D2 indicates the current set value of each item of the currently selected job. Specifically, when the job selection key K1 is operated, the control unit 2 generates the current setting value information D2 of the selected job on the RAM 24. The control unit 2 copies the default value of each item of the selected job in the default value data D1 to the RAM 24. Further, when a set value is newly set, the control unit 2 updates the set value of the corresponding item in the current set value information D2 to the new set value. Each time a set value is set, the control unit 2 updates the current set value information D2. Thus, the current setting value information D2 indicates each setting value of the job to be executed.

  For example, when a copy job is selected, the control unit 2 copies the setting value of each item of the copy job in the default value data D1. The control unit 2 sets the copied data as current set value information D2. For example, when the setting value “single side → double side” is set in the double-sided / divided item, the control unit 2 updates the current set value information D2. The control unit 2 rewrites the setting value of the duplex / division item in the current setting value information D2.

  The control unit 2 recognizes that the start key 12a or a job execution instruction soft key has been operated. That is, the control unit 2 recognizes that a job execution instruction has been made. When a job execution instruction is given, the control unit 2 controls the operation of the job execution unit. The control unit 2 causes the job execution unit to perform an operation according to the current set value information D2.

  The control unit 2 causes the storage unit 28 to store the history 5 of the job for which execution has been instructed. The control unit 2 stores the history 5 in a nonvolatile manner in the ROM 23 and the storage 26. FIG. 1 shows an example in which the history 5 is stored in the storage 26. The control unit 2 stores the history 5 in the storage unit 28 for each job for which an execution instruction has been given. The history 5 is accumulated. The number of records 5 stored can be about 100 to several hundreds. The old history 5 is deleted in order.

  The history 5 includes a job number (serial number), job end date and time, job type, job name, job executor name, job result, and job setting value. In the MFP 100 according to the present embodiment, the current setting value information D2 at the time when a job execution instruction is given is stored as a job setting value.

  When a predetermined list display condition is satisfied, the control unit 2 displays the history list screen 16 on the display panel 10. The list display condition is, for example, when an instruction to display the history list screen 16 of the history 5 is given on the touch panel 11. When the character portion of “status check / job cancel” on the home screen 13 is touched, the control unit 2 displays the history list screen 16 of the history 5. FIG. 6 shows an example of the history list screen 16 of the history 5. The history list screen 16 includes a list 16a on which different histories 5 are displayed for each line. In each column in one row, the job number, job end date and time, job type, job name, job executor name, and job result are displayed side by side.

(Evaluation of settings)
Next, an example of setting evaluation in the MFP 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a setting evaluation flow in the MFP 100 according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of the evaluation window 17 according to the embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of the history list screen 16 of the history 5 according to the embodiment.

  First, the start of FIG. 7 is a time when the display start condition of the evaluation window 17 is satisfied. The display start condition is when a specific job is instructed to be executed and then the specific job is completed or the specific job is canceled. The specific job is a job that is input to the operation panel 1 to perform setting and execution instructions. Copy, scan transmission, FAX transmission, etc. correspond to specific jobs. The job can be canceled by operating the job cancel key 12c (hard key) (see FIG. 2).

  First, the control unit 2 stores the history 5 of completed or canceled jobs in the storage unit 28 (step # 11). The latest history 5 stored in step # 11 is the object of evaluation. Subsequently, the control unit 2 causes the display panel 10 to display a history list screen 16 (list 16a) including the history 5 of completed or canceled jobs (step # 12). That is, the completion or cancellation of the job (newly storing the history 5) is set as the list display condition. As shown in FIG. 8, the control unit 2 may display the job (history 5) to be evaluated in the black and white reversed state. Thus, the user can understand which job in the history list screen 16 is to be evaluated.

  Further, the control unit 2 displays the evaluation window 17 on the display panel 10 (step # 13). The evaluation window 17 is overlaid on the history list screen 16. The evaluation window 17 is the upper layer side. The evaluation window 17 includes a message, a success key K6, and a failure key K7. The message is a content for asking whether or not the job set value has been set correctly. The success key K6 is a software key for inputting that the job set value has been set correctly. The failure key K7 is a software key for inputting that the job set value could not be set correctly.

  The control unit 2 stores the history 5 corresponding to the operated key in the storage unit 28 in a nonvolatile manner (step # 14). Specifically, the control unit 2 stores the history 5 of the job in which the success key K6 is operated in the storage unit 28 as the success history 51 (see FIG. 1). The control unit 2 adds data indicating that the job has been set correctly to the history 5. In other words, the control unit 2 adds data indicating successful setting to the history 5. The control unit 2 stores the history 5 of the job in which the failure key K7 is operated in the storage unit 28 as the failure history 52 (see FIG. 1). The control unit 2 adds data indicating that the job setting is incorrect to the history 5. In other words, the control unit 2 adds data indicating a setting failure to the history 5. As a result, this flow ends (END). The control unit 2 can recognize the success history 51 or the failure history 52 by referring to the added data.

  Note that the user may be away from the multifunction device 100 when the evaluation window 17 is displayed. There is a case where it is left without being evaluated (while the evaluation window 17 is displayed). Therefore, when a predetermined waiting time has elapsed without the success key K6 or the failure key K7 being operated after the evaluation window 17 is displayed, the control unit 2 ends the display of the evaluation window 17 and the history list screen 16 To do. Moreover, the control part 2 does not attach | subject the data which show evaluation to the log | history 5 of evaluation object. That is, a job that has not been evaluated (history 5) is treated as no evaluation.

  As shown in FIG. 9, in the history list screen 16, the control unit 2 causes the display panel 10 to display a graphic i <b> 2 indicating the failure history 52. The display panel 10 attaches the graphic i2 to the display line of the failure history 52 in the history list screen 16. FIG. 9 shows an example in which a mark “!” Is attached as the graphic i2 indicating the failure history 52. FIG. 9 shows an example in which a figure i2 indicating the failure history 52 is added to the “Result” column (column).

(Reproduction process and storage of solution history 53)
Next, an example of the flow of reproduction processing and the storage of the solution history 53 in the MFP 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of reproduction processing and the storage of the solution history 53 in the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment.

  In the present embodiment, the setting value of each item is stored as the history 5. Then, based on the failure history 52, it is possible to reproduce the state at the time when the job execution is instructed. It is possible to correct only setting values that have been set incorrectly from the reproduced state. In addition, the setting omission can be corrected from the reproduced state. This eliminates the need to redo all settings from the beginning.

  Then, the start of FIG. 10 is a time when an operation for selecting the failure history 52 in the history list screen 16 is performed. In other words, it is the time when the control unit 2 recognizes a touch on a line or a column with the graphic i2 indicating the failure history 52.

  When the failure key K7 is operated, the control unit 2 continues to display the history list screen 16 for a predetermined maintenance time. The maintenance time can be determined as appropriate. For example, the maintenance time can be about ten to several tens of seconds. By touching the column of the history 5 that has been evaluated as unsuccessful (the column in the black and white reversed state), the re-execution (resetting) of the failed job can be started immediately. When the success key K6 is operated, the control unit 2 deletes the history list screen 16 at the same time as the evaluation window 17 is deleted.

  10 may be started after the history list screen 16 once disappears. When the list display condition is satisfied by the operation for displaying the history list screen 16, the control unit 2 displays the history list screen 16. The time point when the operation of selecting the failure history 52 on the newly displayed history list screen 16 is performed may be set as the start of FIG. That is, the start of FIG. 10 may not be immediately after the failure key K7 is operated.

  First, the control unit 2 causes the display panel 10 to display the item selection screen 14 corresponding to the selected job of the failure history 52 (step # 21). For example, when the copy job failure history 52 is selected, the control unit 2 displays the copy job item selection screen 14.

  Then, the control unit 2 rewrites the current set value information D2 in the storage unit 28 (RAM 24) based on the selected failure history 52 (step # 22). The control unit 2 copies the set value of the failure history 52. Then, the control unit 2 overwrites the current set value information D2. Thereby, the setting state at the time of job execution instruction in the selected failure history 52 is reproduced (reproduction process). After the reproduction process, the user confirms the set value and resets the set value as necessary (step # 23).

  Then, the control unit 2 repeatedly checks whether or not a job execution instruction has been issued (step # 24). The control unit 2 confirms whether or not the start key 12a or the job execution instruction software key has been operated. When the execution instruction has not been given (No in step # 24), the flow returns to step # 23.

  When an execution instruction is given (Yes in step # 24), the control unit 2 checks whether or not at least one set value has been changed (step # 25). That is, after reproducing the setting state of the failure history 52, the control unit 2 checks whether or not the setting value has been corrected.

  When an instruction to execute a job (corrected job) whose set value is corrected (Yes in Step # 25), the control unit 2 displays the evaluation window 17 after the instruction to execute the corrected job (Step # 26). The control unit 2 displays a success key K6 and a failure key K7 on the display panel 10. Then, the control unit 2 confirms whether or not the success key K6 has been operated (step # 27).

  When the success key K6 is operated (Yes in step # 27), the control unit 2 stores the correction job history 5 in the storage unit 28 (storage 26) in a nonvolatile manner as the solution history 53 (step # 28 → end). ). The correction job history 5 is stored as a solution history 53 (solution) for the selected failure history 52.

  Specifically, the control unit 2 attaches data indicating the selected failure history 52 to the correction job history 5 (see FIG. 1). For example, the control unit 2 adds the job number of the selected failure history 52 to the correction job history 5. By referring to the added data, the control unit 2 can recognize whether or not the history 5 can be used as a solution. Further, the control unit 2 can recognize which failure history 52 can be used as a solution.

  Further, the control unit 2 may add data indicating the solution history 53 to the selected failure history 52. For example, the control unit 2 adds the job number of the solution history 53 to the selected failure history 52. By referring to the data added to the failure history 52, the control unit 2 can recognize the solution history 53 corresponding to the failure history 52.

  On the other hand, when the failure key K7 is operated (No in step # 27), the control unit 2 stores the corrected job history 5 in the storage unit 28 (storage 26) in a nonvolatile manner as the failure history 52 (step # 29). → End). Further, when a job execution instruction is made without correcting the set value (No in step # 25), the control unit 2 displays the evaluation window 17 on the display panel 10 (step # 210). Then, the control unit 2 stores the history 5 corresponding to the operated key in the storage unit 28 in a nonvolatile manner (step # 211 → END). Step # 211 is the same as step # 14.

(Awareness to users)
Next, alerting the user with the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of alerting the user in the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of the attention screen 18 according to the embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the solution display screen 19 according to the embodiment.

  The user determines the setting value of the job selected on the operation panel 1. As a result, the setting value may be in the same state as the failure history 52. If a job is executed in this state, it may fail. In other words, a job having contents not desired by the user can be executed. For example, the use of double-sided printing or aggregate printing may be recommended in the company from the viewpoint of saving paper and toner. In the duplex printing item, it is necessary to set a setting value of “single side → double side”. In the consolidated printing item, it is necessary to set a setting value of “2 in 1” or “4 in 1”. When a copy job is executed without setting these setting values, there is a possibility that a print result not desired by the user may be obtained. Therefore, based on the failure history 52, the multifunction device 100 warns of the possibility of job failure. The multifunction device 100 alerts the user.

  The flow of alerting the user will be described with reference to FIG. The start of FIG. 11 is when the user operates the touch panel 11 and the hard key 12 to set the set value. In other words, it is when a set value is newly set. The control unit 2 can execute the flow of FIG. 11 every time a set value is set.

  The control unit 2 searches for duplication history (step # 31). Then, the control unit 2 checks whether or not there is a duplication history (step # 32). The duplication history is one type of history 5. The duplication history is a failure history 52 having the same setting value as the setting value currently set. The control unit 2 checks whether or not the current set value information D2 and the set values of the failure histories 52 are the same. Thereby, the control unit 2 can confirm whether or not the current setting state is the same as the setting state of the job that has been previously evaluated as failed. When there is no duplication history (No in step # 32), this flow ends (end). When there is an overlapping history (Yes in Step # 32), the control unit 2 displays a caution screen 18 informing the possibility of job failure on the display panel 10 (Step # 33).

  FIG. 12 shows an example of the caution screen 18. The caution screen 18 is displayed in the upper layer of the currently selected item selection screen 14 or set value setting screen 15. The attention screen 18 in FIG. 12 is in a window format. In the caution screen 18, a message, a solution display key K8, and a solution unnecessary key K9 are arranged. The message is a content that informs of the possibility of job failure (calling attention).

  The control unit 2 confirms whether or not the solution-unnecessary key K9 has been operated (step # 34). When the solution-unnecessary key K9 is operated (Yes in step # 34), the control unit 2 turns off the caution screen 18 (step # 35). Then, this flow ends (END). Thereby, the original item selection screen 14 or the set value setting screen 15 is displayed. The user can continue to set the normal set value. It is also possible to issue a job execution instruction by operating the start key 12a.

  When the solution-unnecessary key K9 is not operated (No in Step # 34), the control unit 2 checks whether or not the solution display key K8 is operated (Step # 36). When the solution display key K8 is not operated (No in step # 36), the flow returns to step # 34. When the solution display key K8 is operated (Yes in Step # 36), the control unit 2 extracts the solution history 53 corresponding to the duplication history (Step # 37). Specifically, the control unit 2 confirms data added to each solution history 53 (success history 51). Then, the control unit 2 searches for a solution history 53 corresponding to the duplicate history (failure history 52). Alternatively, the control unit 2 may confirm the data added to the duplication history. The control unit 2 extracts the solution history 53 associated with the duplication history. When there is one solution history 53, the control unit 2 extracts one solution history 53. When there are a plurality of solution histories 53, the control unit 2 extracts a plurality of solution histories 53.

  Then, the control unit 2 displays the solution plan screen 19 on the display panel 10 based on the extracted solution history 53 (step # 38). The control unit 2 displays the solution screen 19 including the set value display field 19a. The solution screen 19 has a window format. The control unit 2 displays the solution screen 19 on the upper side of the caution screen 18. The set value display column 19 a includes the set values included in the solution history 53. The control unit 2 causes the display panel 10 to display the set value display field 19a as a solution. When there are a plurality of solution histories 53, the control unit 2 displays a plurality of setting value display fields 19 a in the solution screen 19.

  FIG. 13 shows an example of the solution screen 19. FIG. 13 shows an example of a solution screen 19 for a copy job. FIG. 13 shows an example in which a plurality (two) of setting value display fields 19 a are displayed on the solution screen 19. In the solution screen 19 shown in FIG. 13, up to four solutions can be displayed simultaneously. The control unit 2 displays the setting value changed from the default value among the setting values included in the solution history 53 in the setting value display field 19a. Or the control part 2 may display the setting value of the predetermined item among the setting values contained in the solution log | history 53 in the setting value display column 19a.

  Each set value display column 19a is provided with an application key K10 and a detail key K11. The application key K10 is operated when applying the set value of the solution (corresponding solution history 53). The detail key K11 is operated when confirming the setting value of the corresponding solution history 53 in more detail. Also, a close key K12 is provided in the solution screen 19.

  After step # 38, control unit 2 confirms whether or not close key K12 has been operated (step # 39). When the close key K12 is operated (Yes in step # 39), the control unit 2 closes the solution screen 19 (step # 310). As a result, the window of the solution screen 19 disappears. Then, the flow returns to step # 33. When the close key K12 is not operated (No in Step # 39), the control unit 2 checks whether or not the detail key K11 is operated (Step # 311).

  When the detail key K11 is operated (Yes in step # 311), the control unit 2 displays a setting value detail screen (not shown) of the solution history 53 corresponding to the operated detail key K11 (step # 312). . The user can check the set value of the solution history 53 in more detail on the set value detail screen. Settings cannot be continued with the setting value detail screen displayed. Therefore, after the confirmation, the set value detail screen is closed to the user. As a result, the flow returns to step # 38.

  When the detail key K11 is not operated (No in Step # 311), the control unit 2 confirms whether or not the application key K10 is operated (Step # 313). When the apply key K10 is not operated (No in Step # 313), the flow returns to Step # 38.

  When the application key K10 is operated (Yes in Step # 313), the control unit 2 displays the current set value information D2 based on the selected solution history 53 (the solution history 53 corresponding to the operated application key K10). The storage unit 28 (RAM 24) is rewritten (step # 314). Specifically, the control unit 2 copies the set value of the selected solution history 53 and overwrites the current set value information D2. When the application key K10 is operated, the corresponding setting value of the solution history 53 is applied. That is, in step # 314, the setting state at the time when the job execution instruction is selected in the selected solution history 53 is reproduced. The job can be executed immediately based on the solution.

  After step # 314, control unit 2 deletes solution screen 19 and caution screen 18 (step # 315). Then, this flow ends (END). The user can continue to set the set value as it is. Also, a job execution instruction can be issued.

  In this manner, the image forming apparatus (multifunction peripheral 100) according to the embodiment includes a job execution unit (original conveyance unit 3a, image reading unit 3b, RAM 24, image processing unit 21, printing unit 4), and operation unit (touch panel 11). , Hard key 12), display panel 10, storage unit 28 (ROM 23, RAM 24, storage 26), and control unit 2. The job execution unit operates during job execution. The operation unit accepts setting of setting values of each item that can be set in the job, and accepts an instruction to execute the job. The display panel 10 displays a screen for determining setting values. The storage unit 28 stores the current setting value information D2 indicating the setting value of the job to be executed, and the history 5 including the setting value of the job instructed to be executed. The control unit 2 controls the job execution unit and causes the job execution unit to perform an operation according to the current set value information D2. The storage unit 28 stores the history 5 for each job for which an execution instruction has been given. After the execution instruction is given, the control unit 2 displays the success key K6 and the failure key K7 on the display panel 10, and stores the job history 5 in which the success key K6 has been operated as the success history 51 in which the job has been correctly set. The history of the job in which the failure key K7 is operated is stored in the storage unit 28 as the failure history 52 in which the job setting is incorrect. Further, when the set value is set, the control unit 2 searches for a duplicate history that is the failure history 52 having the same set value as the currently set value, and when there is a duplicate history, the possibility of job failure Is displayed on the display panel 10.

  Thereby, based on the failure history 52, it can be determined whether or not the setting state is correct. It is possible to determine the possibility of setting value setting omission and setting value selection error. Then, the user can be notified of the possibility of setting omission and selection mistake. Based on the caution, it can be directed to set the set value correctly. As a result, it is possible to prevent execution of a job that cannot obtain a desired result. The user can obtain a desired job execution result. Also, waste of paper and power can be reduced.

  When a predetermined list display condition is satisfied, the control unit 2 causes the display panel 10 to display the history list screen 16 including the list table 16a on which the history 5 different for each line is displayed. When an operation for selecting the failure history 52 in the history list screen 16 is performed, the control unit 2 causes the storage unit 28 to rewrite the current set value information D2 based on the selected failure history 52, and the selected failure history. Reproduction processing for reproducing the setting state at the time when the job corresponding to 52 is executed is performed. Even if job setting fails, it is unlikely that all setting values are incorrect. By the reproduction process, it is possible to easily reset a job that has obtained an undesired result (failed). The user does not have to redo the setting values from the beginning. The user can quickly obtain the execution result of the desired job.

  Further, after the reproduction process, when an instruction to execute a correction job in which at least one set value has been changed is given, the control unit 2 causes the display panel 10 to display a success key K6 and a failure key K7 after the correction job execution instruction. When the success key K6 is operated, the correction job history 5 is stored in the storage unit 28 as a solution history 53 for the selected failure history 52. Thereby, it is possible to leave the history 5 in which the set value is correctly set. By referring to the history 5 in which the set values are set correctly, it is possible to know the correct set value combination.

  Further, when the caution screen 18 is displayed, the control unit 2 displays the solution-unnecessary key K9 and the solution display key K8 on the display panel 10, and corresponds to the duplication history when the solution display key K8 is operated. The solution history 53 to be extracted is extracted, and the setting value included in the solution history 53 is displayed on the display panel 10 as a solution. As a result, it is possible to present a setting value for obtaining a correct job execution result. The user can check the setting value of the setting omission and the setting value of the selection error by looking at the solution. Based on the solution, the correct setting value can be set. Accordingly, a job execution result desired by the user can be obtained.

  Further, when displaying the history list screen 16, the control unit 2 causes the display panel 10 to display the graphic i 2 indicating the failure history 52. The display panel 10 attaches the graphic i <b> 2 to the display column of the failure history 52 in the history list screen 16. Thereby, it is possible to indicate which of the history 5 on the history list screen 16 is the failure history 52. The user can immediately recognize the failure history 52 in the history list screen 16.

  Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described, the scope of the present invention is not limited to this, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

  The present invention can be used in an image forming apparatus including an operation panel that receives settings.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Multifunction machine (image forming apparatus) 10 Display panel 11 Touch panel (operation part) 12 Hard key (operation part)
16 History list screen 18 Caution screen 2 Control unit 21 Image processing unit (job execution unit)
23 ROM (storage unit) 24 RAM (job execution unit, storage unit)
26 Storage (Storage Unit) 28 Storage Unit 3a Document Conveying Unit (Job Execution Unit) 3b Image Reading Unit (Job Execution Unit)
4 Print section (job execution section) 5 History 51 Success history 52 Failure history 53 Solution history D2 Current set value information i2 Figure K6 Success key K7 Failure key K8 Solution display key K9 No solution required key

Claims (5)

A job execution unit that operates during job execution;
An operation unit that accepts setting values for each item that can be set in a job, and that accepts job execution instructions,
A display panel for displaying a screen for setting values;
A storage unit for storing current setting value information indicating a setting value of a job to be executed, and a history including setting values of a job instructed to be executed;
A control unit that controls the job execution unit and causes the job execution unit to perform an operation according to the current set value information;
The storage unit stores the history for each job for which the execution instruction has been made,
The control unit displays a success key and a failure key on the display panel after the execution instruction is given, and the storage unit stores the history of the job in which the success key is operated as a success history in which a job can be correctly set. Storing the history of the job in which the failure key has been operated in the storage unit as an erroneous failure history of the job setting,
Further, when the set value is set, the control unit searches for a duplicate history that is the failure history having the same set value as the currently set value, and when there is the duplicate history, a job failure is possible. An image forming apparatus that displays a warning screen informing the display on the display panel. When a predetermined list display condition is satisfied,
The control unit causes the display panel to display a history list screen including a list in which a different history is displayed for each line,
When an operation for selecting the failure history is performed on the history list screen,
The control unit causes the storage unit to rewrite the current set value information based on the selected failure history, and reproduces the setting state at the execution instruction time point of the job corresponding to the selected failure history. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus is performed. After the reproduction process, when the execution instruction of the correction job in which at least one setting value is changed is made,
The control unit displays the success key and the failure key on the display panel after the execution instruction of the correction job, and the history of the correction job is selected when the success key is operated. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the storage unit stores the solution history as a solution history. When displaying the caution screen,
The control unit displays a solution unnecessary key and a solution display key on the display panel, and extracts the solution history corresponding to the duplication history when the solution display key is operated, and the solution history The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the setting value included in the image is displayed on the display panel as the solution. When displaying the history list screen, the control unit displays a graphic indicating the failure history on the display panel,
5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the display panel attaches the graphic to a display column of the failure history in the history list screen. 6.

Images