JP2022109360A - Image formation device, image formation system, and control program and control method of image formation device - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a new technique in an image formation device having an office direct print function which can present a plurality of choices including a first choice of alternating a font and then executing printing processing when the same font included in application data is not installed in the image formation device and a second choice of executing printing processing in a state where an original font is applied as it is, to a user.SOLUTION: In a compound machine (10) as one example of an image formation device, when the same font included in application data is not installed in the compound machine (10), a first message screen 100 is displayed on a display (28b). On the first message screen 100, three operation keys 114, 116 and 118 corresponding to a plurality, for example, three of choices including a first choice and a second choice are arranged.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, an image forming system including the image forming apparatus, and a control program and control method for the image forming apparatus.

In Patent Document 1, an image forming apparatus such as a printer or multifunction peripheral (MFP) analyzes print data (print job) received from a client device such as a personal computer (PC), and when font substitution occurs, , a technique for displaying a preview image of a page in which the font substitution has occurred is disclosed.

JP 2016-47606 A

By the way, as an image forming apparatus, it accepts input of application data (so-called office files such as document files and spreadsheet files) created by predetermined application software (so-called office software such as word processing software and spreadsheet software), Some have an office direct print function that can execute print processing based on application data. According to this office direct print function, print processing based on application data created by predetermined application software (of a certain software company) can be directly executed without going through a print job generation device such as a personal computer. can be done. In recent years, the office direct print function can handle not only application data created by prescribed application software, but also application data created by compatible application software that is compatible with the prescribed application software. be.

For application data created by compatible application software, the same font (typeface data) included in the application data may not be installed (prepared) in the image forming apparatus. In this case, the print process is executed after the font is substituted. However, when the font is substituted, the print result of the characters corresponding to the substituted font may differ from the intended (original) print result, that is, the intended print result may not be obtained. Therefore, if there is a way for the user to execute the printing process with the original font (standard font) applied as it is, without replacing the font, there are cases where he/she would like to choose that way. be. On the other hand, if the substitution of a font does not cause any particular inconvenience, such as not having a large effect on the print result, the substitution of the font may be allowed. For this reason, when the same font as that contained in the application data is not installed in the image forming apparatus, the printing process is executed after substituting the font. It would be extremely useful for the user if there were a plurality of options, including a so-called second option in which the printing process is executed with the font applied.

Therefore, in the image forming apparatus having the office direct print function, the present invention executes print processing after substituting the font when the same font as that included in the application data is not installed in the image forming apparatus. To provide a novel technique capable of presenting a user with a plurality of options including a first option of printing and a second option of executing printing processing while applying an original font as it is. The purpose is to

To achieve this object, the present invention provides a first invention relating to an image forming apparatus, a second invention relating to an image forming system provided with the image forming apparatus, and a third invention relating to a control program for an image forming apparatus. and a fourth invention relating to a control method for an image forming apparatus.

Among these, the first invention related to the image forming apparatus has an office direct print function. That is, the image forming apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention accepts input of application data created by predetermined application software or compatible application software compatible with the application software, and performs print processing based on the application data. It is viable.

Moreover, the image forming apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention includes storage means, font determination means, presentation means, operation reception means, and process execution means. The storage means stores font data for a plurality of types of fonts. The font determination means determines whether the application data includes non-installed fonts. Non-installed fonts refer to fonts different from multiple types of fonts based on font data stored in the storage means, in other words, multiple types of fonts installed in the image forming apparatus. Refers to fonts that are not installed in the forming device. The presentation means presents a plurality of options to the user. The operation accepting means accepts an operation by a user. Then, the process executing means executes a process according to the operation accepted by the operation accepting means.

Specifically, when the font determining means determines that the application data includes the non-installed font, the presenting means presents the first option and the second option. A first option is to substitute a non-installed font with a substitute font corresponding to the non-installed font among a plurality of types of fonts installed in the image forming apparatus, and then execute print processing. On the other hand, the second option is to execute print processing with the non-installed fonts applied as they are.

Then, for example, when an operation for selecting the first option is received by the operation receiving means, the process executing means executes the first process corresponding to the first option. On the other hand, when an operation for selecting a second option is accepted by the operation accepting means, the process executing means executes a second process corresponding to the second option.

The second processing includes transmission processing for transmitting application data to an external support device. The support device is a device that can convert application data into data in a predetermined format that enables print processing with non-installed fonts applied as they are.

In addition, the second process may further include a reception process of receiving the predetermined format data converted by the support device from the support device.

In the first invention, preview image display means may be further provided. The preview image display means displays a preview image representing an image expected to be formed by the printing process according to the first process or the second process.

Also, the presentation means may present the third option in addition to the first option and the second option. The third option is to guide the user to a first procedure for converting application data into data in a predetermined format by a first device, which is an external device different from the support device. When an operation for selecting the third option is accepted by the operation accepting means, the process executing means executes a third process corresponding to the third option.

Specifically, the process executing means causes the presenting means to present the first guidance option and the second guidance option as the third process. The first guidance option is an option to output first access information for accessing the first website that discloses the first procedure. The second guidance option is an option to output the first guideline information representing the first guideline. Further, the process executing means executes the first guidance process according to the first guidance option, for example, when an operation for selecting the first guidance option is received by the operation accepting means. On the other hand, when an operation for selecting a second guidance option is received by the operation receiving means, the process execution means executes a second guidance process according to the second guidance option.

Furthermore, in the first aspect of the invention, it may be impossible for the support device to convert the application data into data in a predetermined format. Guidance means may be provided to deal with such cases. When the support device cannot convert the application data into the predetermined format data, the guide means converts the application data into the predetermined format data by a second device, which is an external device different from the support device. The user is guided to the second point for doing so.

Specifically, the guidance means causes the presentation means to present the third guidance option and the fourth guidance option. The third guidance option is an option to output second access information for accessing the second website that discloses the second procedure. The fourth guidance option is an option to output the second guideline information representing the second guideline. Further, the guidance means causes the process execution means to execute a third guidance process corresponding to the third guidance option, for example, when an operation for selecting a third guidance option is received by the operation reception means. On the other hand, when an operation for selecting a fourth guidance option is received by the operation receiving means, the guidance means causes the process executing means to execute a fourth guidance process corresponding to the fourth guidance option. In this manner, the guiding means guides the user to the second procedure.

In addition, the first aspect of the present invention may further include protrusion determination means. When the operation for selecting the first option is accepted by the operation acceptance means, the protrusion determination means determines whether the object included in the application data is the application data before the first process is executed by the process execution means. Determine whether or not there is a possibility that the data-based print processing will extend beyond the print range.

Here, for example, when the protrusion determining means determines that the object may protrude from the printing range of the printing process, the presenting means presents the user with the fourth option and the fifth option. The fourth option is to execute print processing while the non-installed font is applied as is. On the other hand, the fifth option is to guide the user to a third procedure for converting the application data into data in a predetermined format by a third device, which is a device different from the support device.

Then, the process executing means executes the above-described second process when the operation accepting means accepts an operation for selecting the fourth option, for example. On the other hand, when the operation accepting means accepts an operation for selecting the fifth option, the process executing means executes the fifth process corresponding to the fifth option.

Further, the processing executing means may detect that an object included in the application data may protrude from the printing range of the printing process even when the operation for selecting the first option is accepted by the operation accepting means. If it is determined by the protrusion determining means, execution of the above-described first process is postponed. On the other hand, the process executing means executes the first process when the protrusion determining means determines that there is no possibility that the object included in the application data will protrude from the printing range of the printing process.

Here, the process executing means may cause the presenting means to present the fifth guidance option and the sixth guidance option as the fifth process. The fifth guidance option is an option of outputting third access information for accessing a third website that discloses the third procedure. The sixth guidance option is an option to output the third guideline information representing the third guideline. Further, the process executing means executes the fifth guidance process according to the fifth guidance option when the operation receiving means receives an operation for selecting the fifth guidance option, for example. On the other hand, when an operation for selecting a sixth guidance option is received by the operation receiving means, the process executing means executes a sixth guidance process according to the sixth guidance option.

An image forming system according to a second aspect of the present invention includes the image forming apparatus according to the first aspect and the support device described above.

A control program for an image forming apparatus according to a third aspect of the present invention causes a computer of the image forming apparatus to execute a font determination procedure, a presentation procedure, an operation reception procedure, and a process execution procedure.

Here, the image forming apparatus has an office direct print function. That is, the image forming apparatus can accept input of application data created by predetermined application software or compatible application software compatible with the application software, and can execute print processing based on the application data. In addition, the image forming apparatus has storage means. This storage means stores font data for a plurality of types of fonts.

Then, in the font determination procedure, it is determined whether or not the application data includes non-installed fonts. Non-installed fonts refer to fonts different from multiple types of fonts based on font data stored in the storage means, in other words, multiple types of fonts installed in the image forming apparatus. Refers to fonts that are not installed in the forming device. Then, in the presentation procedure, a plurality of options are presented to the user. Furthermore, in the operation acceptance procedure, an operation by the user is accepted. Then, in the process execution procedure, a process corresponding to the operation received by the operation reception means is executed.

Specifically, when the font determination procedure determines that the application data includes the non-installed font, the presentation procedure presents the first option and the second option. A first option is to substitute a non-installed font with a substitute font corresponding to the non-installed font among a plurality of types of fonts installed in the image forming apparatus, and then execute print processing. On the other hand, the second option is to execute print processing with the non-installed fonts applied as they are.

Then, in the process execution procedure, for example, when an operation for selecting the first option is received by the operation reception procedure, the first process corresponding to the first option is executed. On the other hand, when an operation for selecting the second option is accepted by the operation acceptance procedure, the process execution procedure executes a second process corresponding to the second option.

The second processing includes transmission processing for transmitting application data to an external support device. The support device is a device that can convert application data into data in a predetermined format that enables print processing with non-installed fonts applied as they are.

A control method for an image forming apparatus according to a fourth aspect of the present invention includes a font determination step, a presentation step, an operation reception step, and a process execution step.

Here, the image forming apparatus has an office direct print function. That is, the image forming apparatus can accept input of application data created by predetermined application software or compatible application software compatible with the application software, and can execute print processing based on the application data. In addition, the image forming apparatus has storage means. This storage means stores font data for a plurality of types of fonts.

Then, in the font determination step, it is determined whether or not the application data includes non-installed fonts. Non-installed fonts refer to fonts different from multiple types of fonts based on font data stored in the storage means, in other words, multiple types of fonts installed in the image forming apparatus. Refers to fonts that are not installed in the forming device. Then, in the presentation step, a plurality of options are presented to the user. Furthermore, in the operation accepting step, an operation by the user is accepted. Then, in the process execution step, a process is executed according to the operation received by the operation receiving means.

Specifically, when the font determination step determines that the application data includes the non-installed font, the presentation step presents the first option and the second option. A first option is to substitute a non-installed font with a substitute font corresponding to the non-installed font among a plurality of types of fonts installed in the image forming apparatus, and then execute print processing. On the other hand, the second option is to execute print processing with the non-installed fonts applied as they are.

Then, in the process executing step, for example, when an operation for selecting the first option is received by the operation accepting step, the first process corresponding to the first option is executed. On the other hand, when an operation for selecting the second option is accepted by the operation accepting step, the process executing step executes a second process corresponding to the second option.

The second processing includes transmission processing for transmitting application data to an external support device. The support device is a device that can convert application data into data in a predetermined format that enables print processing with non-installed fonts applied as they are.

According to the present invention, in an image forming apparatus having an office direct print function, when the same font as that included in application data is not installed in the image forming apparatus, the font is substituted and then print processing is executed. A plurality of options can be presented to the user, including a first option that the original font is applied and a second option that the printing process is executed with the original font applied as is. This is extremely beneficial for the user.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a multifunction machine according to the first embodiment of the invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the first message screen in the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a preview screen in the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a memory map conceptually showing the configuration within the RAM of the main memory in the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram conceptually showing the structure of the substitute font table in the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing part of the flow of the font substitution control task in the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing the flow of the rest of the font substitution control task in the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the details of network utilization processing in the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the flow of print support tasks in the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the first message screen in the second embodiment of the invention. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a second message screen in the second embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a QR code presentation screen in the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a conversion procedure print confirmation screen in the second embodiment. FIG. 14 is a flow chart showing the flow of part of the font substitution control task in the second embodiment. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a third message screen in the third embodiment of the invention. FIG. 16 is a flow chart showing the flow of part of the font substitution control task in the third embodiment. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a fourth message screen in the fourth embodiment of the invention. FIG. 18 is a flow chart showing the flow of part of the font substitution control task in the fourth embodiment.

[First embodiment]
A first embodiment of the present invention will be described by taking the multi-function machine 10 shown in FIG. 1 as an example.

The MFP 10 according to the first embodiment has multiple functions such as a copy function, a printer function, an image scanner function, and a facsimile function. Therefore, the multifunction device 10 includes an image reading section 12 , an image processing section 14 , an image forming section 16 and a paper feeding section 18 . In addition, the MFP 10 includes a control section 20 , an auxiliary storage section 22 , an external storage medium communication section 24 and a communication section 26 . Furthermore, the multi-function device 10 includes an operation display section 28 . These are connected to each other via a common bus 30 .

The image reading unit 12 is an example of image reading means. That is, the image reading unit 12 performs image reading processing of reading an image of a document (not shown) and outputting two-dimensional read image data corresponding to the read image. For this reason, the image reading unit 12 includes a document platen (not shown) on which a document is placed. In addition, the image reading unit 12 includes an image reading unit (not shown) including a light source, a plurality of mirrors, an imaging lens, a line sensor, and the like, and a driving mechanism (not shown) for moving the image reading position of the image reading unit. etc. Further, the image reading section 12 includes a document holding cover (not shown) for holding the document placed on the document platen. An automatic document feeder (ADF) (not shown), which is one of optional devices, may be provided on the document pressing cover.

The image processing unit 14 is an example of image processing means. That is, the image processing unit 14 performs appropriate image processing on various image data such as the aforementioned read image data. Such an image processing unit 14 has image processing executing means such as a DSP (not shown). The image processing by the image processing unit 14 includes processing for generating preview image data, which will be described later.

The image forming section 16 is an example of image forming means. That is, the image forming section 16 forms an image based on appropriate image data such as data after image processing by the image processing section 14 on a sheet of paper as a sheet-shaped image recording medium (not shown). print processing. This printing process is performed, for example, by a known electrophotographic method (Carlson process method). For this reason, the image forming unit 16 includes a photosensitive drum, a charging device, an exposure device, a developing device, a transfer device, a fixing device, a cleaning device, a static elimination device, and the like (not shown). The paper after the printing process by the image forming section 16, so to speak, the printed matter is discharged to a paper discharge tray (not shown). It should be noted that the image forming unit 16 is not limited to the electrophotographic method, and may perform print processing by other methods such as an inkjet method.

The paper feeding unit 18 is an example of paper feeding means. That is, the paper feed unit 18 has one or more, for example, a plurality of paper feed cassettes (not shown). Each paper feed cassette accommodates paper of an appropriate prescribed size. In addition, the paper feeding unit 18 includes one or more, for example, one manual feed tray (not shown). Paper of an appropriate size is also set on this manual feed tray. Then, the paper feeding unit 18 supplies the paper sheet by sheet from the paper feeding source to the image forming unit 16 from any one of the paper feeding cassettes or the manual feed tray.

The control unit 20 is an example of control means for overall control of the multi-function device 10 . For this reason, the control unit 20 has a computer, such as a CPU 20a, as control execution means. In addition, the control unit 20 has a main storage unit 20b as main storage means that can be directly accessed by the CPU 20a. The main storage unit 20b includes, for example, ROM and RAM (not shown). Among them, the ROM stores a control program, so-called firmware, for controlling the operation of the CPU 20a. The RAM constitutes a working area and a buffer area when the CPU 20a executes processing based on the control program.

The auxiliary storage unit 22 is an example of auxiliary storage means. That is, the auxiliary storage unit 22 appropriately stores various data including various image data such as the aforementioned read image data. Such an auxiliary storage unit 22 has, for example, a hard disk drive (not shown). In addition, the auxiliary storage unit 22 may have rewritable nonvolatile memory such as flash memory.

The external storage medium communication unit 24 is an example of external storage medium communication means. That is, the external storage medium communication section 24 has a mounting section (not shown) to which the portable external storage medium 50 can be mounted. The external storage medium communication unit 24 is in charge of two-way communication processing with the external storage medium 50 attached to the attachment unit. The external storage medium 50 includes semiconductor media such as USB memory and SD memory card, and disk media such as CD and DVD.

The communication unit 26 is an example of communication means. That is, the communication unit 26 is connected to an external device such as the management server 70 via the communication network 60, thereby performing bidirectional communication processing with the external device. The communication network 60 referred to here includes a LAN, the Internet, a public switched telephone network, and the like. LAN also includes wireless LAN, especially Wi-Fi®. This wireless LAN is used for connection with an external device (not shown) having a communication function by the wireless LAN, and is particularly used for connection with mobile communication terminals such as smartphones and tablets. Note that the management server 70 is installed, for example, in a management center (not shown). This management server 70 has a font database (font DB) 70a in which font data on various fonts are stored. The management server 70 including the font database 70a will be described later in detail.

The operation display unit 28 is a so-called operation panel, and has a touch panel 28a as an example of operation reception means and a display 28b as an example of display means, that is, has a display 28b with the touch panel 28a. That is, the touch panel 28a is a substantially transparent rectangular sheet member, and the display 28b has a substantially rectangular display surface. The display 28b with the touch panel 28a is configured by providing the touch panel 28a so as to overlap the display surface of the display 28b. The touch panel 28a is, for example, a capacitive panel, but is not limited to this, and may be a panel of other methods such as an electromagnetic induction method, a resistive film method, and an infrared method. The display 28b is, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), but is not limited to this, and may be another type of display such as an organic electroluminescence (EL) display. In addition to the touch panel 28a, the operation display unit 28 has appropriate hardware switch means such as a push button switch (not shown). In addition to the display 28b, the operation display section 28 has appropriate light emitting means such as a light emitting diode (LED) (not shown).

The MFP 10 according to the first embodiment is installed in a public space such as a convenience store or a supermarket on the premise that it will be used by an unspecified number of users, especially on the premise that it will be used for a fee. be done. The multifunction machine 10, which is intended for such use, includes elements not shown in FIG. A paper strip printer or the like for printing paper strips is provided. However, since elements not shown in FIG. 1 are not directly related to the spirit of the present invention, detailed description thereof will be omitted here.

The MFP 10 according to the first embodiment has an office direct print function that can receive input of application data created by predetermined application software and execute print processing based on the application data. . With this office direct print function, print processing based on application data created by predetermined application software can be directly executed without going through a print job generation device such as a personal computer. Further, according to the office direct print function in the first embodiment, not only application data created by predetermined application software but also application data created by compatible application software compatible with the predetermined application software is also available. This is extremely useful in applications that are assumed to be used by an unspecified number of users as described above.

Note that the application data is loaded from the external storage medium 50, for example. Application data can also be imported from a mobile communication terminal. Furthermore, the application data can be imported from a cloud server (not shown) that is separate from the management server 70 or that is also served by the management server 70 . That is, the application data is captured from appropriate data sources such as the external storage medium 50, mobile communication terminal, and cloud server.

Here, for application data created by compatible application software, the same font as that included in the application data may not be installed in the MFP 10 . In this case, the print process is executed after the font is substituted. However, when the font is substituted, the printed result of characters corresponding to the substituted font may differ from the original (original), that is, the original printed result may not be obtained. Therefore, if there is a measure for executing print processing without font substitution, that is, with the original font applied as it is, the user may want to select that measure. On the other hand, if the substitution of a font does not cause any particular inconvenience, such as not having a large effect on the print result, the substitution of the font may be allowed. For this reason, when the same font as that contained in the application data is not installed in the MFP 10, the printing process is executed after substituting the font. It would be extremely beneficial for the user to have multiple options, including a second option, so to speak, in which the printing process is executed with the fonts applied as is.

Therefore, according to the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment, in the office direct print function, when the same font as that included in the application data is not installed in the multifunction device 10, as shown in FIG. A first message screen 100 is displayed on the display 28b. This first message screen 100 is, for example, a modal dialog.

In this first message screen 100, for example, an appropriate caution mark 102 with an exclamation mark (!) is arranged in the upper center. Below the warning mark 102, there is an appropriate character string 104 including the content to inform the user that the user's (customer's) application data (file) requires a predetermined process due to the font. distributed. Under the character string 104, an appropriate character string 106 is arranged to simply represent execution of print processing after font substitution, which is one of the predetermined processes referred to here. In addition, below the character string 106, an appropriate character string 108 representing an annotation when print processing is executed after substituting fonts is arranged. This character string 108 contains content that informs the user that if the font is substituted, the printed result of the characters (corresponding to the substituted font) may differ from the original.

Further, below the character string 108, there is an appropriate character string that simply expresses execution of print processing using a network system, which is a predetermined process different from that represented by the character string 106 described above. 110 is arranged. Execution of print processing using the network system referred to here means receiving support from the management server 70 in order to enable execution of print processing with the original fonts applied as they are. To tell. Under the character string 110, an appropriate character string 112 representing an annotation when executing print processing using a network system is arranged. This character string 112 includes a content that informs the user that the use of the network system will provide the same print result as the original, but that an additional charge will be required.

In addition, three operation keys 114 , 116 and 118 are arranged horizontally below the character string 112 , in other words, at the bottom of the first message screen 100 . Of these three operation keys 114, 116, and 116, the operation key 114 at the left end is for instructing execution of print processing after substituting fonts, which is one of the predetermined processes described above. In other words, it is a "substitute font for printing" key corresponding to the character string 106 . The central operation key 116 is for instructing execution of print processing using the network system, which is another predetermined process. Use and print" key. The operation key 118 on the right end is a "cancel" key for giving an instruction to postpone the execution of the printing process, in other words, for ending the operation on the first message screen 100. FIG.

That is, according to the first message screen 100, the option to execute the printing process after substituting the font, the option to execute the printing process using the network system, and the option to postpone the printing process are displayed. Three options are presented to the user. Among these, the option of executing print processing after substituting fonts corresponds to the above-described first option. The option of executing print processing using the network system corresponds to the above-described second option. Then, the user is presented with another option of forgoing execution of the print process.

On this first message screen 100, for example, it is assumed that the "substitute font for printing" key 114 is operated (depressed). Then, the first message screen 100 disappears. A preview screen 200 as shown in FIG. 3 is then displayed on the display 28b. Strictly speaking, when the "substitute font for printing" key 114 is operated, in response to this, the image processing unit 14 performs image processing for generating the preview image data based on the application data. is done. During this time, a processing-in-progress message screen (not shown) indicating that predetermined processing including image processing by the image processing unit 14 is being performed is displayed on the display 28b. That is, when the "substitute font for printing" key 114 is operated, the first message screen 100 disappears and the in-process message screen is displayed on the display 28b. Then, when the preview image data is generated by the image processing unit 14, a preview screen 200 is displayed on the display 28b instead of the in-processing message screen.

As shown in FIG. 3, on the preview screen 200, a character string 202 is arranged, for example, at the upper left position. This character string 202 contains information that informs the user that the printing result (output image) represented by a preview image 206, which will be described later, is expected to be obtained by the printing process to be executed from now on. Another character string 204 is arranged below the character string 202 . This character string 204 indicates that if the user approves (if there is no problem) that the print result represented by the preview image 206 can be obtained, the character string 204 can be used to operate a "next" key 208, which will be described later. Include content to prompt the user. Furthermore, a preview image 206 is arranged below the character string 204 , in other words, at a substantially central position on the preview screen 200 .

A preview image 206 is a reduced image of an image expected as a print result (expected image), and is arranged based on the preview image data generated by the image processing unit 14 described above. FIG. 3 shows a preview image 206 based on application data (document file) created by a certain word processing software as compatible application software, strictly speaking, based on application data after font substitution. Here is an example. Although it is not clear from FIG. 3, the character portion corresponding to the font substitution portion in the preview image 206 is slightly different from the original. In addition, if the application data is created by application software other than word processing software such as spreadsheet software, a preview image based on the application data, strictly speaking, based on the application data after font substitution 206 is arranged.

Further, a “next” key 208 is arranged at an appropriate position on the preview screen 200 , for example near the lower right corner of the preview screen 200 . This "next" key 208 is an operation key for instructing to proceed to the next procedure necessary for executing print processing. In addition, a “return” key 210 is arranged near the lower left corner of the preview screen 200 . This "return" key 210 is an operation key for instructing to return to a state in which the screen immediately before the preview screen 200, that is, the first message screen 100 is displayed again on the display 28b. In addition, an “end” key 212 is arranged near the upper right corner of the preview screen 200 . This "end" key 212 is an operation key for instructing to end the use of the office direct print function after suspending the execution of the print process.

In response to such a preview screen 200 being displayed, the user can confirm what kind of print result will be obtained, particularly from the preview image 206, before print processing is executed. Here, for example, if the user approves that the print result represented by the preview image 206 is obtained, the user operates the "next" key 208 to execute print processing. You can proceed to the next steps necessary for In this case, instead of the preview screen 200, there is an unnecessary screen for proceeding to the next procedure, strictly speaking, for proceeding to the next procedure necessary for executing print processing based on the application data after font substitution. A suitable operating screen as shown is displayed on the display 28b.

On the other hand, for example, when the "return" key 210 is operated, instead of the preview screen 200, the first message screen 100, which is the screen immediately before the preview screen 200, is again displayed on the display 28b. . As a result, the user can choose between the first option of executing the printing process after substituting the aforementioned font, the second option of executing the printing process using the network system, and the other option of skipping the printing process. and any of the three options can be selected again.

On the other hand, when the "end" key 212 is operated, execution of print processing is postponed. Then, instead of the preview screen 200, a termination message screen (not shown) indicating that the use of the office direct print function is terminated is displayed on the display 28b for a certain period of time (about several seconds). After that, a home screen (also called a “portal screen”) (not shown) is displayed on the display 28b.

Returning to FIG. 2, for example, it is assumed that the "print using network system" key 116 on first message screen 100 is operated. Then, the first message screen 100 disappears. Then, a communication message screen (not shown) is displayed on the display 28b. At the same time, it is possible to execute print processing in a state in which the original font is applied to the management server 70 from the multifunction machine 10 as it is, including the transmission of application data from the multifunction machine 10 to the management server 70. Assistance is requested to

The management server 70 is, so to speak, a management device for managing the MFP 10 , but it is also a support device for supporting print processing by the MFP 10 . That is, the management server 70 has the font database 70a as described above, and the font data for various fonts including fonts not installed in the multifunction machine 10 are stored in the font database 70a. Then, when the management server 70 receives a support request from the MFP 10, the management server 70 extracts from the font database 70a the same font as that contained in the application data received accompanying the support request, that is, the original font. . In addition, the management server 70 converts the application data into data in a predetermined format that enables printing while applying the original font contained in the application data. This predetermined format data is, for example, a PDF file, and strictly speaking, it is a PDF file in which original fonts are embedded. Then, the management server 70 responds to the support request from the multifunction device 10 , including transmitting the converted predetermined format data to the multifunction device 10 .

When the answer from the management server 70 is accepted by the multifunction device 10, a preview screen 200 (see FIG. 3) is displayed on the display 28b in place of the message screen during communication. At this time, image processing is performed by the image processing unit 14 to generate preview image data based on data in a predetermined format, and a preview image 206 based on the preview image data is arranged on the preview screen 200 . Such a preview image 206 is an image in which the original font is applied (reflected) as it is. For example, when the "next" key 208 is operated, it is necessary to execute the printing process based on the predetermined format data, that is, to execute the printing process with the original font applied as it is. In addition, the aforementioned operation screen for proceeding to the next procedure is displayed on the display 28b. For example, when the "return" key 210 is operated, the first message screen 100 is displayed on the display 28b instead of the preview screen 200 as described above. Then, when the "end" key 212 is operated, the execution of the printing process is postponed as described above, and instead of the preview screen 200, the end message screen is displayed on the display 28b for a certain period of time. A home screen is then displayed on the display 28b.

Returning to FIG. 2 again, it is assumed that the "cancel" key 118 on the first message screen 100 is operated. Then, the first message screen 100 disappears. Then, execution of print processing is postponed. Then, a data acquisition screen (not shown) is displayed on the display 28b for selecting and importing application data to be used for printing from an appropriate data source such as the external storage medium 50. FIG. This allows the user to redo previous operations as appropriate, including selecting and importing different application data from an appropriate data source such as the external storage medium 50 .

Note that if all the fonts included in the application data are installed in the MFP 10, that is, if the fonts are not replaced, the first message screen 100 and the preview screen 200 are not displayed. In this case, similarly to when the "next" key 208 on the preview screen 200 is operated, an operation screen is displayed on the display 28b to proceed to the next procedure necessary for executing the print processing. As a case where the font is not substituted in this way, for example, the application data may be created by predetermined application software that is not compatible application software. Also, for example, when the application data is a so-called environment-independent file such as a PDF file that does not depend on the handling environment, fonts are not substituted. Furthermore, even if the application data is created by compatible application software, if all the fonts included in the application data are installed in the MFP 10, the fonts will not be replaced. Naturally, if the application data does not contain the font, the font is not substituted.

Here, FIG. 4 shows a memory map 300 conceptually representing the configuration in the RAM of the main storage unit 20b.

As shown in this memory map 300 , the RAM has a program storage area 310 and a data storage area 350 . In the program storage area 310 of these, the aforementioned control program is stored. Specifically, the control programs include a display control program 312, an operation detection program 314, an image reading control program 316, an image processing control program 318, an image formation control program 320, a paper feed control program 322, an auxiliary storage control program 324, an external A storage medium communication control program 326 and a communication control program 328 are included. In addition, the control program includes an office direct print program (also called an “office direct lettering program”) 330 and a font substitution control program 332 .

The display control program 312 is a program for generating display screen data necessary for displaying various screens including the first message screen 100 on the display 28b. The operation detection program 314 is a program for detecting an operation state on the touch panel 28a. The image reading control program 316 is a program for controlling the image reading section 12 . The image processing control program 318 is a program for controlling the image processing section 14 . The image forming control program 320 is a program for controlling the image forming section 16 . The paper feed control program 322 is a program for controlling the paper feed section 18 . The auxiliary storage control program 324 is a program for controlling the auxiliary storage section 22 . The external storage medium communication control program 326 is a program for controlling the external storage medium communication section 24 . A communication control program 328 is a program for controlling the communication unit 26 . The office direct print program 330 is a program for implementing the office direct print function. The font substitution control program 332 is a program for causing the CPU 20a to execute a font substitution control task, which will be described later.

On the other hand, the data storage area 350 stores various data. The various data include display image generation data 352, operation data 354, font data 356, table data 358, and the like.

The display image generation data 352 is data such as polygon data and texture data used for generating display screen data based on the display control program 312 described above. The operation data 354 is data representing an operation state of the touch panel 28a, and more specifically, time-series data representing a touch position (coordinates) on the touch panel 28a. The font data 356 is font data, more specifically, multiple types of Japanese and alphanumeric font data. Table data 358 then includes data for various tables, and includes, among others, alternate font table 358a shown in FIG.

The substitute font table 358a corresponds to which font contained in the font data 356 is substituted for a font that is not contained in the font data 356, that is, a non-installed font that is not installed in the MFP 10. This is a table in which relationships are summarized. That is, when application data to be used for print processing by the office direct print function includes a non-installed font, the correspondence relation of which font included in the font data 356 is substituted for the non-installed font. are summarized in the alternative font table 358a.

As described above, the CPU 20a operates according to the control program, and particularly executes the font substitution control task when executing print processing using the office direct print function. The flow of this font substitution control task is shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. FIG. The font substitution control task is executed according to the font substitution control program 332. FIG. Also, the font substitution control task is executed in response to application data to be used for print processing by the office direct print function being fetched from an appropriate data source such as the external storage medium 50 . In other words, the font substitution control task is executed after application data is fetched from an appropriate data source by the data acquisition screen described above, strictly speaking, by the data acquisition task executed before the font substitution control task. be. A detailed description including illustration of the data acquisition task is omitted.

According to this font substitution control task, first, in step S1, the CPU 20a analyzes application data to be used for print processing by the office direct print function, and analyzes attribute information such as the extension of the application data. Then, the CPU 20a advances the process to step S3.

In step S3, the CPU 20a determines whether the application data to be printed is an environment-independent file such as a PDF file based on the analysis result in step S1. Here, for example, if the application data is an environment-independent file (S3: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S5. On the other hand, if the application data is not an environment-independent file (S3: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S7, which will be described later.

In step S5, the CPU 20a starts executing the next task required to execute print processing based on the application data. As a result, the operation screen for proceeding to the next procedure described above is displayed on the display 28b. With this, the CPU 20a terminates the font substitution control task.

On the other hand, when proceeding from step S3 to step S7, the CPU 20a determines in step S7 whether or not the application data has been created by predetermined application software. The determination in step S7 is also made based on the analysis result in step S1. In this step S7, for example, if the application data is created by predetermined application software (S7: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S5. On the other hand, if the application data is not created by the predetermined application software, that is, if the application data is created by compatible application software (S7: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S9. .

In step S9, the CPU 20a determines whether the application data includes a font that is not included in the font data 356, that is, whether the application data includes a non-installed font. The determination in step S9 is also made based on the analysis result in step S1. Here, for example, if the application data does not include non-installed fonts (S9: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S5. On the other hand, if the application data includes non-installed fonts (S9: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S11. It should be noted that the CPU 20a naturally advances the process to step S5 even when the application data does not contain the font.

In step S11, the CPU 20a displays the first message screen 100 on the display 28b. Then, the CPU 20a advances the process to step S13.

In step S13, the CPU 20a waits for the first message screen 100 to accept any operation (S13: NO). Then, when the first message screen 100 receives some kind of operation (S13: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S15.

In step S<b>15 , CPU 20 a determines whether the operation accepted in step S<b>13 is an operation to “substitute font for printing” key 114 on first message screen 100 . Here, for example, if the operation accepted in step S13 is an operation to the "substitute font for printing" key 114 (S15: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S17. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S13 is not an operation to the "substitute font for printing" key 114 (S15: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S25, which will be described later.

In step S17, the CPU 20a displays the above-described processing-in-progress message screen on the display 28b. Strictly speaking, the first message screen 100 is turned off and then the processing-in-progress message screen is displayed on the display 28b. Then, the CPU 20a advances the process to step S19.

In step S19, the CPU 20a refers to the alternative font table 358a and replaces the non-installed fonts included in the application data with fonts (alternative fonts) conforming to the alternative font table 358a. Then, the CPU 20a advances the process to step S21.

In step S21, the CPU 20a generates preview image data based on the application data after font substitution, and strictly speaking, controls the image processing section 14 to do so. Accordingly, the image processing unit 14 performs image processing, including rasterization, for generating preview image data. Then, the CPU 20a advances the process to step S23.

In step S23, the CPU 20a displays the preview screen 200 on the display 28b instead of the in-process message screen. At this time, the CPU 20a arranges the preview image 206 on the preview screen 200 based on the preview image data generated in step S21. Then, the CPU 20a advances the process to step S33, which will be described later.

On the other hand, when the CPU 20a advances the process from step S15 to step S25, in step S25, the operation accepted in step S13 is displayed on the first message screen 100. ” key 116 is determined. Here, for example, if the operation accepted in step S13 is an operation to "print using network system" key 116 (S25: YES), CPU 20a advances the process to step S27. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S13 is not an operation to the "print using a network system" key 116, that is, if it is an operation to the "cancel" key 118 (S25: NO), the CPU 20a , the process proceeds to step S31, which will be described later.

In step S27, the CPU 20a displays the above-described communication message screen on the display 28b. Then, the CPU 20a advances the process to step S29.

In step S29, the CPU 20a executes network utilization processing, which is a subtask (subroutine) of the font substitution control task. The network use processing of step S29 will be described in detail later. In the network use processing of step S29, the CPU 20a instructs the management server 70 to perform print processing with the original font applied as it is. Ask for help to make it possible. The CPU 20a then receives a response from the management server 70 to this support request. The response from the management server 70 includes the PDF file as the aforementioned predetermined format data. When the CPU 20a receives a reply from the management server 70, the process proceeds to step S21.

In this case, in step S21, the CPU 20a generates preview image data based on the predetermined format data, and strictly speaking, controls the image processing section 14 to do so. Furthermore, in step S23, the CPU 20a displays the preview screen 200 on the display 28b in place of the in-communication message. At this time, the CPU 20a arranges the preview image 206 on the preview screen 200 based on the preview image data generated in step S21, that is, based on the preview image data based on the predetermined format data. Then, the CPU 20a advances the process to step S33, which will be described later.

Further, when proceeding from step S25 to step S31, the CPU 20a executes the data acquisition task preceding the font substitution control task in order to display the data acquisition screen on the display 28b in step S31. Start execution. As a result, the first message screen 100 disappears and the data acquisition screen is displayed on the display 28b. With this, the CPU 20a terminates the font substitution control task.

Further, when the CPU 20a advances the process from step S23 to step S33, the CPU 20a waits for the preview screen 200 to receive any operation in step S33 (S33: NO). Then, when the preview screen 200 receives some kind of operation (S33: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S35.

In step S<b>35 , the CPU 20 a determines whether the operation accepted in step S<b>33 is the operation of the “next” key 208 on the preview screen 200 . Here, for example, if the operation accepted in step S33 is an operation to the "next" key 208 (S35: YES), CPU 20a advances the process to step S5 described above. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S33 is not an operation on the "next" key 208 (S35: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S37.

In step S<b>37 , the CPU 20 a determines whether or not the operation accepted in step S<b>33 described above is an operation to the “return” key 210 on the preview screen 200 . Here, for example, if the operation accepted in step S33 is an operation to "return" key 210 (S37: YES), CPU 20a returns the process to step S11 described above. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S33 is not an operation on the "return" key 210, that is, if it is an operation on the "end" key 212 (S37: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S39. proceed.

In step S39, the CPU 20a executes termination processing for terminating the office direct print function. The termination process of step S39 includes a process of displaying the above-described termination message screen on the display 28b instead of the preview screen 200 for a certain period of time, and then displaying the above-described home screen on the display 28b. With this, the CPU 20a terminates the font substitution control task.

The network use processing in step S29 described above will be described in detail with reference to FIG. According to this network utilization process, the CPU 20a first executes a support request process in step S101. In the support request process of step S101, the CPU 20a can execute the printing process while the original font is applied to the management server 70, including sending the application data to the management server 70. Request support for Then, the CPU 20a advances the process to step S103.

In step S103, the CPU 20a executes an answer acceptance process. In the answer acceptance process of step S103, the CPU 20a accepts an answer from the management server 70 to the support request in step S101. The response from the management server 70 includes the PDF file as the aforementioned predetermined format data. Upon receiving the reply from the management server 70, the CPU 20a terminates the network use processing.

While such network utilization processing is executed by the CPU 20a, the management server 70 (strictly speaking, the computer of the management server 70) executes the printing support task. FIG. 9 shows the flow of this print support task. Note that the print support task is executed in response to an access request from the MFP 10 (CPU 20a).

According to this print support task, the management server 70 first executes a request acceptance process in step S201. In the request acceptance process of step S201, the management server 70 accepts a support request from the MFP 10 including receiving application data transmitted from the MFP 10. FIG. The management server 70 then advances the process to step S203.

In step S203, the management server 70 executes reply processing. In the response process of step S203, the management server 70 converts the application data received in the request reception process of step S201 into a predetermined format that enables execution of the printing process while the original font is applied as is. Convert to data. As described above, the predetermined format data is, for example, a PDF file. Then, the management server 70 responds to the support request from the multifunction device 10 , including transmitting the converted predetermined format data to the multifunction device 10 . With this, the management server 70 ends the print support task.

As described above, according to the first embodiment, especially according to the office direct print function, when the same font as that included in the application data is not installed in the multifunction device 10, the first message screen 100 ( 2) is displayed on the display 28b. In other words, there are three options: the first option to execute the printing process after substituting the font, the second option to execute the printing process using the network system, and another option to skip the printing process. is presented to the user. This is extremely beneficial for the user.

In addition, in the first embodiment, the RAM of the main storage unit 20b in which the font data 356 (see FIG. 4) is stored is an example of storage means according to the present invention. Strictly speaking, the font data 356 is stored in the ROM of the main memory unit 20b or the auxiliary memory unit 22, and then developed in the RAM of the main memory unit 20b. The storage unit 22 is also an example of storage means according to the present invention.

The CPU 20a, which executes steps S1, S3, S7 and S9 in the font substitution control task (see FIG. 6), is an example of font determination means according to the present invention. In addition, the CPU 20a that executes step S11 in the font substitution control task (see FIG. 7), that is, the CPU 20a that causes the first message screen 100 to be displayed on the display 28b, cooperates with the display 28b to perform presentation according to the present invention. It constitutes an example of means.

Further, appropriate processing executed by the CPU 20a in response to acceptance of the operation on the "substitute font for printing" key 114 on the first message screen 100 is the first processing according to the present invention. An example. In addition, appropriate processing executed by the CPU 20a in response to acceptance of the operation of the "print using the network system" key 116 on the first message screen 100 is, among other things, steps in the font substitution control task. Appropriate processing including the network use processing of S29 is an example of the second processing according to the present invention. And CPU20a which performs these 1st process and 2nd process is an example of the process execution means based on this invention.

In addition, the support request process in step S101 in the network use process (see FIG. 8) is an example of the transmission process according to the present invention. The reply acceptance process in step S103 in the network use process is an example of the reception process according to the present invention.

Further, the CPU 20a that executes steps S21 and S23 in the font substitution control task cooperates with the image processing section 14 and the display 28b to constitute an example of preview image display means according to the present invention.

[Second embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment of the invention will be described.

In the second embodiment, the first message screen 100a is displayed as shown in FIG. In the first message screen 100a shown in FIG. 10, instead of the "cancel" key 118 of the first message screen 100 in the first embodiment shown in FIG. Operation keys are arranged. The configuration of the first message screen 100a shown in FIG. 10 other than this is the same as the configuration of the first message screen 100 in the first embodiment shown in FIG. , and their detailed description is omitted.

The "other method" key 120 on the first message screen 100a shown in FIG. 10 includes the first option corresponding to the "substitute font for printing" key 114 and the "print using the network system". The second option corresponding to key 116 is an operation key corresponding to yet another third option. That is, according to the first message screen 100a in the second embodiment, the user is presented with three options: the first option, the second option, and the third option. For example, when the "other method" key 120 corresponding to the third option is operated, the first message screen 100a disappears and the second message screen 400 as shown in FIG. 11 is displayed on the display 28b. . Note that the second message screen 400 is a modal dialog, for example, like the first message screen 100a.

In this second message screen 400, a warning mark 402 similar to that in the first message screen 100a is arranged in the upper center. Below the warning mark 402, there is a message that informs the user that by converting the user's (customer's) application data (file) into the PDF format, the original print result can be obtained. An applicable string 404 containing Furthermore, below the character string 404, a character string 406 containing an appropriate descriptive text for the "display QR code" key 410, which will be described later, is arranged. This character string 406 is a QR code (registration (trademark) will be displayed to the user. In addition, below the character string 406, a character string 408 containing an appropriate description of the "print conversion procedure" key 412, which will be described later, is arranged. This character string 408 includes content that informs the user that when the "print conversion procedure" key 412 is operated, a procedure manual describing the procedure for converting to PDF format will be printed for a fee.

In addition, three operation keys 410, 412 and 414 are arranged horizontally below the character string 408, in other words, at the bottom of the first message screen 100a. The leftmost operation key 410 among these three operation keys 410 , 412 and 414 is a “display QR code” key corresponding to the character string 406 . A central operation key 412 is a “print conversion procedure” key corresponding to the character string 408 . The operation key 414 on the right end instructs to suspend the execution of the printing process, terminate the operation of the second message screen 400, and eventually transition to a state in which the aforementioned data acquisition screen is displayed on the display 28b. It is a "cancel" key for canceling.

It is assumed that the "display QR code" key 410 is operated on the second message screen 400, for example. Then, instead of the second message screen 400, a QR code presentation screen 500 as shown in FIG. 12 is displayed on the display 28b. Note that the QR code presentation screen 500 is also, for example, a modal dialog.

In the QR code presentation screen 500 shown in FIG. 12, a warning mark 502 similar to that in the first message screen 100a (and the second message screen 400) is arranged in the upper center. Below the alert mark 502, an appropriate character string 504 is arranged, which includes a content that conveys to the user that the procedure for converting (the application data from now on) to the PDF format is to be explained to the user. At the same time, below the character string 504, an appropriate content is included that prompts the user to read the QR code 508 described below (with a camera-equipped mobile communication terminal owned by the user) and access the website described above. character string 406 is arranged. A QR code 508 is arranged below the character string 506 . This QR code 508 includes information (URL information) for accessing the aforementioned website. Furthermore, an “OK” key 510 is arranged below the QR code 508 , in other words, at the bottom of the QR code presentation screen 500 . This "OK" key 510 is an operation key for indicating that the user has recognized the contents of the QR code presentation screen 500, preferably that the QR code 508 has been read.

In response to such a QR code presentation screen 500 being displayed, for example, it is assumed that the user reads the QR code 508 with his own mobile communication terminal. As a result, the user can obtain the information for accessing the website described above, and can recognize the procedure for converting the application data into the PDF format. Then, when the "OK" key 510 on the QR code presentation screen 500 is operated, the QR code presentation screen 500 disappears, and after the above-mentioned end message screen is displayed on the display 28b for a certain period of time, the above-mentioned home screen is displayed. is displayed on the display 28b.

It should be noted that the website referred to here is configured by, for example, the management server 70, but may be configured by another server. In addition, the website describes how to convert application data into PDF format as described above. Appropriate annotations are also provided, including content that tells the user that this will result in a printed result that matches the original.

Thereafter, the user can obtain the original print result intended by the application data by performing the following operations, for example. That is, the user uses his own personal computer (for example, used for creating the application data) to convert the application data into an environment-independent PDF format according to the PDF format conversion procedure obtained from the above-mentioned website. Convert to file. After that, the user will use the converted PDF file for print processing using the office direct print function. As a result, the original print result is obtained, that is, the print result in which the original font is applied as it is.

Returning to FIG. 11, for example, it is assumed that the "print conversion procedure" key 412 on the second message screen 400 is operated. Then, instead of the second message screen 400, a conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600 as shown in FIG. 13 is displayed on the display 28b. Note that the conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600 is also, for example, a modal dialog.

In the conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600 shown in FIG. 13, a warning mark 602 similar to that in the first message screen 100a is arranged in the upper center. Below the warning mark 602, there is an appropriate character string 604 containing the content to inform the user that the instruction manual describing the procedure for converting (the application data from now on) to the PDF format is to be printed for a fee. distributed. In addition, below the character string 604, an appropriate character string 606 including contents for inquiring the user as to whether or not printing of the operating instructions may be executed is arranged. Further, two operation keys 608 and 610 are arranged below the character string 606 , in other words, below the conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600 . The operation key 608 on the left of these two operation keys 608 and 610 is a "yes" key for instructing execution of printing of the manual. The operation key 610 on the right side is a "No" key for giving an instruction to postpone the printing of the manual.

Assume that the "yes" key 608 is operated on the conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600, for example. Then, the procedure manual is printed, and more specifically, the printing process of the procedure manual by the image forming unit 16 is executed. At the same time, after the conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600 disappears and the aforementioned end message screen is displayed on the display 28b for a certain period of time, the aforementioned home screen is displayed on the display 28b. The procedure manual describes the procedure for converting the application data into the PDF format as described above. Appropriate remarks are also provided, including content to inform the user that the printing result will be obtained as the original is obtained by providing it.

After such an instruction manual is printed, the user can obtain the original print result intended by the application data, for example, by performing the following operations. That is, the user converts the application data into a PDF format file using his own personal computer (used for creating the application data, for example) according to the PDF format conversion procedure described in the manual. Convert. After that, the user will use the converted PDF file for print processing using the office direct print function. As a result, the original print result is obtained, that is, the print result in which the original font is applied as it is.

On the other hand, when the "No" key 610 on the conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600 is operated, the conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600 disappears without printing the instruction manual. After the end message screen is displayed on the display 28b for a certain period of time, the home screen is displayed on the display 28b.

Returning to FIG. 11, it is assumed that the "cancel" key 414 on the second message screen 400 is operated. Then, the second message screen 400 disappears. Then, the aforementioned data acquisition screen is displayed on the display 28b. This allows the user to redo previous operations as appropriate, including selecting and importing different application data from an appropriate data source such as the external storage medium 50 .

In the second embodiment as well, the CPU 20a executes the font substitution control task, but in the second embodiment, steps S301 to S319 as shown in FIG. 14 are added to the font substitution control task. That is, in step S25 described above (FIG. 7), if the operation accepted in step S13 is not an operation to the "print using network system" key 116 on the first message screen 100a, that is, "another method" If the key 120 is operated (S25: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S301 instead of proceeding to step S31.

In this step S301, the CPU 20a displays the second message screen 400 on the display 28b instead of the first message screen 100a. Then, the CPU 20a advances the process to step S303.

In step S303, the CPU 20a waits for the second message screen 400 to accept any operation (S303: NO). Then, when the second message screen 400 receives some kind of operation (S303: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S305.

In step S<b>305 , the CPU 20 a determines whether the operation accepted in step S<b>303 is an operation to the “display QR code” key 410 on the second message screen 400 . Here, for example, if the operation accepted in step S303 is an operation to the "display QR code" key 410 (S305: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S307. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S303 is not an operation to the "display QR code" key 410 (S305: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S311, which will be described later.

In step S307, the CPU 20a displays the QR code presentation screen 500 on the display 28b instead of the second message screen 400. FIG. Then, the CPU 20a advances the process to step S309.

In step S309, the CPU 20a waits for the QR code presentation screen 500 to accept an operation, that is, waits for the "OK" key 510 to accept an operation (S309: NO). When the "OK" key 510 of the QR code presentation screen 500 accepts the operation (S309: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S39 (FIG. 7) to terminate the office direct print function.

On the other hand, when the CPU 20a advances the process from step S305 to step S311, in step S311, the operation accepted in step S303 is the "print conversion procedure" key 412 on the second message screen 400. Determine whether it is an operation. Here, for example, if the operation accepted in step S303 is an operation to the "print conversion procedure" key 412 (S311: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S313. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S303 is not an operation to the "print conversion procedure" key 412, that is, if it is an operation to the "cancel" key 414 (S311: NO), the CPU 20a to display the data acquisition screen on the display 28b, the process proceeds to step S31 described above (FIG. 7).

In step S313, instead of the second message screen 400, the CPU 20a displays the conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600 on the display 28b. Then, the CPU 20a advances the process to step S315.

In step S315, the CPU 20a waits for the conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600 to accept any operation (S315: NO). When the conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600 receives any operation (S315: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S317.

In step S<b>317 , the CPU 20 a determines whether the operation accepted in step S<b>315 is the operation of the “Yes” key 608 on the conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600 . Here, for example, if the operation accepted in step S315 is an operation to "yes" key 608 (S317: YES), CPU 20a advances the process to step S319. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S315 is not an operation to the "yes" key 608, that is, if it is an operation to the "no" key 610 (S317: NO), the CPU 20a terminates the office direct print function. Therefore, the process proceeds to step S39 described above (FIG. 7).

In step S319, the CPU 20a causes the image forming section 16 to print the manual, and strictly speaking, controls the image forming section 16 to do so. After that, the CPU 20a advances the process to step S39 described above (FIG. 7) in order to end the office direct print function.

Thus, according to the second embodiment, in addition to the above-described first and second options, the user is presented with the third option of guiding the procedure for converting the application data into the PDF format. be. That is, the number of options for the user increases, and it becomes even more beneficial for the user.

In the second embodiment, the appropriate processing executed by the CPU 20a in response to acceptance of the operation on the "other method" key 120 on the first message screen 100a is the third method according to the present invention. It is an example of processing. The procedure for converting application data into PDF format posted on the aforementioned website or described in the manual is an example of the first procedure according to the present invention. Also, a personal computer (for example, possessed by a user) used when converting application data into PDF format is an example of the first device according to the present invention.

Furthermore, the option of operating the "display QR code" key 410 on the second message screen 400 in the second embodiment is an example of the first guidance option according to the present invention. The website in the second embodiment is an example of the first website according to the present invention. Information for accessing the website, that is, information (URL information) included in the QR code of the QR code presentation screen 500 (see FIG. 12) is an example of first access information according to the present invention. Then, in order to display the QR code presentation screen 500 on the display 28b, step S307 (see FIG. 14) in the font substitution control task is executed by the CPU 20a. An example.

In addition, the option of operating the "print conversion procedure" key 412 on the second message screen 400 in the second embodiment is an example of the second guidance option according to the present invention. The information described in the instruction manual in the second embodiment, especially the information on the procedure for converting the application data into the PDF format, is an example of the first procedure information according to the present invention. Further, step S319 in the font substitution control task is executed by the CPU 20a in order to print the procedure manual, and step S319 is an example of the second guidance process according to the present invention.

[Third embodiment]
Next, a third embodiment of the invention will be described.

The third embodiment is based on, for example, the second embodiment. In addition, in the third embodiment, it is possible that the management server 70 may not be able to properly convert the application data into the predetermined format data while the original font is applied as it is. Then, countermeasures are taken. For example, when the application data is created by excessively old application software, and the fonts included in the application data do not exist in the font database 70a of the management server 70, the management server 70 properly restores the application data. Unable to convert to specified format data. In such a case, the present third embodiment is extremely useful.

That is, if the font contained in the application data does not exist in the font database 70a of the management server 70, the management server 70 cannot properly convert the application data into data in a predetermined format as described above. In this case, the management server 70, as a response to the support request from the multifunction device 10, notifies the multifunction device 10 that it is impossible to respond to the support request. When such an answer is received, the third message screen 700 as shown in FIG. 15 is displayed on the display 28b of the multi-function device 10.

In this third message screen 700, a warning mark 702 similar to that in the first message screen 100a is arranged in the upper center. Below the warning mark 702, an appropriate character string 704 is arranged, which includes a content that informs the user that the user's (customer's) application data (file) cannot obtain the original print result. . In addition, below the character string 704, there is an appropriate character string 706 containing content that informs the user that the user's application data needs to be converted to PDF format (to obtain the original print result). be done.

Furthermore, below the character string 706, a character string 708 containing an appropriate descriptive text for the "display QR code" key 712, which will be described later, is arranged. This character string 708 displays a QR code for accessing a website (not shown) that provides instructions for converting the user's application data into PDF format when the "display QR code" key 712 is operated. It includes the content that informs the user that it will be done. In addition, below the character string 708, a character string 710 including an appropriate description of a "print conversion procedure" key 714, which will be described later, is arranged. This character string 710 includes content that informs the user that when the "print conversion procedure" key 714 is operated, a procedure manual describing the procedure for converting to PDF format will be printed for a fee.

In addition, three operation keys 712 , 714 and 716 are arranged horizontally below the character string 710 , in other words, at the bottom of the third message screen 700 . The leftmost operation key 712 among these three operation keys 712 , 714 and 716 is a “display QR code” key corresponding to the character string 708 . A central operation key 714 is a “print conversion procedure” key corresponding to the character string 710 . The operation key 716 on the right end instructs to suspend the execution of the printing process, terminate the operation of the third message screen 700, and eventually transition to a state in which the aforementioned data acquisition screen is displayed on the display 28b. It is a "cancel" key for canceling.

In this third message screen 700, for example, when the "display QR code" key 712 is operated, instead of the third message screen 700, the QR code presentation screen 500 described above (FIG. 12) is displayed on the display 28b. Is displayed. As a result, the user can obtain the information for accessing the website described above, and can recognize the procedure for converting the application data into the PDF format.

For example, when the "print conversion instructions" key 714 on the third message screen 700 is operated, instead of the third message screen 700, the conversion instructions print confirmation screen 600 described above (FIG. 13) is displayed on the display. 28b. As a result, the user can instruct printing of the manual described above, and can recognize the procedure for converting the application data into the PDF format.

Further, when the "cancel" key 716 on the third message screen 700 is operated, the third message screen 700 disappears. Then, the aforementioned data acquisition screen is displayed on the display 28b. This allows the user to redo previous operations as appropriate, including selecting and importing different application data from an appropriate data source such as the external storage medium 50 .

In the third embodiment, the CPU 20a also executes the font substitution control task. In the third embodiment, steps S401 to S421 shown in FIG. Join. That is, after executing the network use process of step S29 described above (FIG. 7), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S401.

In step S401, the CPU 20a determines that the response received from the management server 70 through the network use processing in step S29, that is, the response from the management server 70 to the support request from the multi-function device 10 cannot respond to the support request. Determine whether to indicate that it is possible. Here, for example, if the response from the management server 70 indicates that it is possible to respond to the support request from the multifunction device 10, that is, if the response includes a PDF file as printable data (S401: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S21. On the other hand, if the answer from the management server 70 indicates that it is impossible to respond to the support request from the MFP 10, that is, if the answer does not include the print enable data (S401: YES). , the CPU 20a advances the process to step S403.

In step S403, the CPU 20a displays the third message screen 700 on the display 28b instead of the above-described message screen during communication. Then, the CPU 20a advances the process to step S405.

In step S405, the CPU 20a waits for the third message screen 700 to accept any operation (S405: NO). Then, when the third message screen 700 receives some kind of operation (S405: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S407.

In step S<b>407 , the CPU 20 a determines whether the operation accepted in step S<b>405 is an operation to the “display QR code” key 712 on the third message screen 700 . Here, for example, if the operation accepted in step S405 is an operation to the "display QR code" key 712 (S407: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S409. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S405 is not an operation to the "display QR code" key 712 (S407: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S413, which will be described later.

In step S409, instead of the third message screen 700, the CPU 20a displays the QR code presentation screen 500 on the display 28b. Then, the CPU 20a advances the process to step S411.

In step S411, the CPU 20a waits for the QR code presentation screen 500 to accept an operation, that is, waits for the "OK" key 510 to accept an operation (S411: NO). When the "OK" key 510 of the QR code presentation screen 500 accepts the operation (S411: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S39 (see FIG. 7) to terminate the office direct print function.

On the other hand, when the CPU 20a advances the process from step S407 to step S413, in step S413, the operation accepted in step S405 is the "print conversion procedure" key 714 on the third message screen 700. Determine whether it is an operation. Here, for example, if the operation accepted in step S405 is an operation to "print conversion procedure" key 714 (S413: YES), CPU 20a advances the process to step S415. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S405 is not an operation to the "print conversion procedure" key 714, that is, if it is an operation to the "cancel" key 716 (S413: NO), the CPU 20a to display the data acquisition screen on the display 28b, the process proceeds to step S31 (see FIG. 7).

In step S415, instead of the third message screen 700, the CPU 20a displays the conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600 on the display 28b. Then, the CPU 20a advances the process to step S417.

In step S417, the CPU 20a waits for the conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600 to accept any operation (S417: NO). When the conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600 receives any operation (S417: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S419.

In step S<b>419 , the CPU 20 a determines whether the operation accepted in step S<b>417 is the operation of the “Yes” key 608 on the conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600 . Here, for example, if the operation accepted in step S417 is an operation to "yes" key 608 (S419: YES), CPU 20a advances the process to step S421. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S417 is not an operation to the "yes" key 608, that is, if it is an operation to the "no" key 610 (S419: NO), the CPU 20a terminates the office direct print function. Therefore, the process proceeds to step S39.

In step S421, the CPU 20a causes the image forming section 16 to print the manual, and strictly speaking, controls the image forming section 16 to do so. After that, the CPU 20a advances the process to step S39 to end the office direct print function.

As described above, according to the third embodiment, when the font contained in the application data does not exist in the font database 70a of the management server 70, the management server 70 properly converts the application data into data in a predetermined format. If conversion is not possible, a third message screen 700 is displayed on display 28b. This guides the user on how to convert the application data into the PDF format. This is also very beneficial for the user.

In the third embodiment, the CPU 20a that executes steps S401 to S421 in the font substitution control task (FIG. 16) particularly causes the third message screen 700 to be displayed on the display 28b by executing step S403. , cooperate with the display 28b to constitute an example of the guide means according to the present invention. The procedure for converting application data into PDF format posted on the aforementioned website or described in the manual is also an example of the second procedure according to the present invention. A personal computer (for example owned by a user) used to convert application data into PDF format is also an example of a second device according to the present invention.

Furthermore, the option of operating the "display QR code" key 712 on the third message screen 700 in the third embodiment is an example of the third guidance option according to the present invention. The website in the third embodiment is also an example of the second website in the present invention. Information for accessing the website, that is, information (URL information) included in the QR code of the QR code presentation screen 500 (see FIG. 12) is also an example of the second access information according to the present invention. Then, in order to display the QR code presentation screen 500 on the display 28b, step S409 (see FIG. 14) in the font substitution control task is executed by the CPU 20a. An example.

In addition, the option to operate the "print conversion procedure" key 714 on the third message screen 700 in the third embodiment is an example of the fourth guidance option according to the present invention. The information described in the procedure manual in the third embodiment, especially the information on the procedure for converting the application data into the PDF format, is also an example of the second procedure information according to the present invention. Further, step S421 in the font substitution control task is executed by the CPU 20a in order to print the procedure manual, and step S421 is an example of the fourth guidance process according to the present invention.

[Fourth embodiment]
A fourth embodiment of the present invention will now be described.

The fourth embodiment is based on, for example, the third embodiment. In addition, in the fourth embodiment, by substituting the font included in the application data, depending on the position and size of the character corresponding to the substituted font, the appearance of the print result including the character is changed. Measures are taken in view of the possibility of excessive collapse.

Specifically, in the fourth embodiment, when the font contained in the application data is substituted, the substitution of the font causes objects (characters, photographs, graphics) contained in the print result. (graph), etc.) is likely to extend beyond the print range. Strictly speaking, this determination is made based on the rasterized image data when the preview image data is generated by the image processing unit 14 . Here, for example, if there is no possibility that an object included in the print result will protrude from the print range, the aforementioned preview screen 200 (FIG. 3) is displayed on the display 28b. On the other hand, if there is a possibility that an object included in the print result may protrude from the print range, a fourth message screen 800 as shown in FIG. 17 is displayed on the display 28b.

In this fourth message screen 800, a warning mark 802 similar to that in the first message screen 100a is arranged in the upper center. Below the warning mark 802, there is a possibility that the user's (customer's) application data (file) may lose some characters, resulting in a printout that is malformed. An appropriate character string 804 is provided that includes information to inform the user that a predetermined process is required. Under the character string 804, an appropriate character string 806 is arranged that simply indicates execution of print processing using the aforementioned network system, which is one of the predetermined processes referred to here. In addition, below the character string 806, an appropriate character string 808 representing an annotation when executing print processing using a network system is arranged. This character string 808 includes content that informs the user that using the network system will result in the same print result as the original, but that an additional charge will be required.

Furthermore, below the character string 808, an appropriate character string that simply expresses conversion of application data (file) to PDF format, which is a predetermined process different from that represented by the character string 806 described above. 810 is arranged. In addition, below the character string 810, an appropriate character string 812 representing a comment about converting the application data to PDF format is arranged. This character string 812 includes content that informs the user that the original print result can be obtained even by converting the application data into the PDF format.

In addition, three operation keys 814 , 816 and 818 are arranged horizontally below the character string 812 , in other words, at the bottom of the fourth message screen 800 . Of these three operation keys 814, 816, and 816, the operation key 814 at the left end corresponds to the character string 806 for instructing execution of print processing using the network system, in other words, "Network Print using the system" key. A central operation key 816 is a "convert file to PDF format" key for instructing conversion of application data to PDF format, in other words, corresponding to character string 810. FIG. The operation key 818 at the right end is a "cancel" key for giving an instruction to postpone execution of print processing, in other words, for ending the operation on the fourth message screen 800. FIG.

On this fourth message screen 800, for example, it is assumed that the "print using network system" key 814 is operated. Then, the same processing as when the "print using the network system" key 114 on the first message screen 100a is operated is performed. For example, when the "convert file to PDF" key 816 on the fourth message screen 800 is operated, the same processing as when the "other method" key 120 on the first message screen 100a is operated is performed. will be Furthermore, when the "cancel" key 818 on the fourth message screen 800 is operated, the fourth message screen 800 disappears, the execution of the printing process is postponed, and the data acquisition screen described above is displayed on the display 28b. to be displayed.

In the fourth embodiment, the CPU 20a also executes the font substitution control task. In the fourth embodiment, steps S501 to S509 as shown in FIG. Join. That is, after generating the preview image data in step S21 described above (FIG. 7), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S501.

In this step S501, the CPU 20a determines whether or not there is a possibility that an object included in the print result may protrude from the print range, based on the rasterized image data used to generate the preview image. Here, for example, if there is no possibility that the object included in the print result will protrude from the print range (S501: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S23 to display the preview screen 200 on the display 28b. On the other hand, if there is a possibility that the object included in the print result may protrude from the print range (S501: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S503.

In step S503, the CPU 20a displays the fourth message screen 800 on the display 28b. Strictly speaking, the processing-in-progress message screen is turned off, and then the fourth message screen 800 is displayed on the display 28b. Then, the CPU 20a advances the process to step S505.

In step S505, the CPU 20a waits for the fourth message screen 800 to accept any operation (S505: NO). Then, when the fourth message screen 800 receives some kind of operation (S505: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S507.

In step S<b>507 , CPU 20 a determines whether the operation accepted in step S<b>505 is an operation to “print using network system” key 814 on fourth message screen 800 . Here, for example, if the operation accepted in step S505 is an operation to the "print using network system" key 814 (S507: YES), CPU 20a advances the process to step S27. As a result, the fourth message screen 800 disappears and the above-described message screen during communication is displayed on the display 28b, and then the network use processing of step S29 is executed. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S505 is not an operation to the "print using network system" key 814 (S507: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S509.

In step S<b>509 , the CPU 20 a determines whether the operation accepted in step S<b>505 is an operation to the “convert file to PDF format” key 816 on the fourth message screen 800 . Here, for example, if the operation accepted in step S505 is an operation to the "convert file to PDF format" key 816 (S509: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S301 (see FIG. 14). Thereby, instead of the fourth message screen 800, the second message screen 400 (see FIG. 11) is displayed on the display 28b. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S505 is not an operation to the "convert and print the file into PDF format" key 816, that is, if it is an operation to the "cancel" key 818 (S509: NO), the CPU 20a , the process proceeds to step S31 in order to display the aforementioned data acquisition screen on the display 28b.

As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, when there is a possibility that an object included in the print result may extend beyond the print range due to substitution of the font included in the application data, the fourth message Screen 800 is displayed on display 28b. In other words, the option to prevent the object included in the print result from protruding from the print range, in other words, the option to enable execution of the printing process while the original font is applied as it is, presented to the user. This is also very beneficial for the user.

In addition, in the fourth embodiment, the CPU 20a that executes step S501 in the font substitution control task is an example of the protrusion determination means according to the present invention. When the fourth message screen 800 is displayed, the user is presented with an option to operate the "print using the network system" key 814. ' key 814 is an example of a fourth option according to the present invention. At the same time, by displaying the fourth message screen 800, the user is presented with the option of operating the "convert file to PDF format" key 816, but the "convert file to PDF format" option is presented to the user. The option of operating key 816 is an example of a fifth option according to the present invention. The CPU 20a that displays the fourth message screen 800 on the display 28b by executing step S503 in the font substitution control task also cooperates with the display 28b to constitute an example of the presenting means according to the present invention. .

Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment as well, the procedure for converting application data into PDF format by a personal computer is posted on the aforementioned website or described in the manual. The personal computer referred to here is an example of the third device according to the present invention, and the manner in which the personal computer converts the application data into the PDF format is an example of the third manner according to the invention.

Appropriate processing executed by the CPU 20a in response to acceptance of the operation on the "convert file to PDF format" key 816 on the fourth message screen 800 is the fifth processing according to the present invention. An example. Then, appropriate processing is executed as the fifth processing, or appropriate processing is performed in response to acceptance of the operation of the "print using the network system" key 814 on the fourth message screen 800. is an example of the processing executing means according to the present invention.

In addition, when the "convert file to PDF format" key 816 on the fourth message screen 800 is operated, the same operation as when the "other method" key 120 on the first message screen 100a is operated as described above. Processing is performed, that is, a second message screen 400 is displayed on display 28b. The option of operating the "display QR code" key 410 on the second message screen 400 is an example of the fifth guidance option according to the present invention. The website described above in the fourth embodiment is also an example of the third website in the present invention. Information for accessing the website, that is, information (URL information) included in the QR code of the QR code presentation screen 500 (see FIG. 12) is also an example of the third access information according to the present invention. Also in the fourth embodiment, step S409 (see FIG. 14) in the font substitution control task is executed by the CPU 20a in order to display the QR code presentation screen 500 on the display 28b. It is an example of the 5th guidance process which concerns on invention.

In addition, the option to operate the "print conversion procedure" key 412 on the second message screen 400 in the fourth embodiment is an example of the sixth guidance option according to the present invention. The information described in the procedure manual in the fourth embodiment, especially the information on the procedure for converting the application data into the PDF format, is also an example of the third procedure information according to the present invention. Also in the fourth embodiment, step S421 in the font substitution control task is executed by the CPU 20a in order to print the instruction manual. be.

[Other application examples]
Each of the above examples is a specific example of the present invention, and does not limit the technical scope of the present invention. The present invention can also be applied to aspects other than these examples.

For example, in each embodiment, it seems that the application data to be printed by the office direct print function is data for one page, but that is not the case. The present invention can be applied whether the application data is data for one page or data for a plurality of pages.

Moreover, each screen including the first message screen 100 is not limited to the configuration described here, including each design. For example, for the first message screen 100 shown in FIG. 2, an appropriate character string including an explanation for the "cancel" key 118 may be arranged.

In place of or in addition to the QR code presentation screen 500 shown in FIG. may be displayed in At the same time, the procedure for converting the application data into the PDF format may be output in an auditory form of voice. Further, a screen explaining how to convert the application data into PDF format may be configured to be displayed on the portable information device owned by the user.

Similarly, instead of, or in addition to, the conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600 shown in FIG. may be displayed on the display 28b. At the same time, instructions for converting the application data into the PDF format may be output by voice. Further, a screen explaining how to convert the application data into PDF format may be configured to be displayed on the mobile information device owned by the user.

In addition, the manual described above may be printed not by the image forming unit 16 but by the above-described printer for paper slips (not shown), for example.

Furthermore, when the font contained in the application data is substituted, it may be configured so that the substitute font can be arbitrarily selected from the aforementioned substitute font table 358a (see FIG. 5).

Although the third embodiment is based on the second embodiment, it is not limited to this, and may be based on the first embodiment. Also, although the fourth embodiment is based on the third embodiment, it is not limited to this, and may be based on the first or second embodiment. That is, each embodiment may be appropriately combined.

Furthermore, in each embodiment, the multifunction machine 10 installed in a public space such as a convenience store or a supermarket is taken as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the present invention can also be applied to a multifunction machine 10 installed in an office. Moreover, the present invention can be applied not only to the MFP 10 but also to an image forming apparatus other than the MFP 10, such as a printer.

In addition, the present invention is not limited to the form of an image forming apparatus, but can be provided in the form of a program called a control program for the image forming apparatus, and in the form of a method called a control method for the image forming apparatus. can be done. In addition, the present invention can also be provided in the form of an image forming system including an image forming apparatus and a support apparatus.

The present invention can also be provided in the form of a computer-readable storage medium in which a control program for an image forming apparatus is recorded. In this case, the control program recorded in the storage medium is read by the computer of the image forming apparatus and executed by the computer, thereby realizing an image forming apparatus similar to the present invention. The storage medium mentioned here includes a portable medium such as the external storage medium 50 described above. In addition to portable media, built-in (built-in) media such as ROMs and hard disk drives that are built into image forming apparatuses are also applicable as storage media.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10... MFP 14... Image processing part 16... Image forming part 20... Control part 20a... CPU
20b... Main storage unit 28... Operation display unit 28a... Touch panel 28b... Display 100, 100a... First message screen 200... Preview screen 400... Second message screen 500... QR code presentation screen 600... Conversion procedure print confirmation screen 700... Second 3 message screen 800 … 4th message screen

Claims (12)

An image forming apparatus capable of accepting input of application data created by predetermined application software or compatible application software compatible with the application software and executing print processing based on the application data,
storage means in which font data for multiple types of fonts are stored;
font determination means for determining whether or not the application data includes non-installed fonts different from the plurality of types of fonts;
presentation means for presenting a plurality of options to the user;
operation receiving means for receiving an operation by the user; and
comprising a process executing means for executing a process according to the operation accepted by the operation accepting means;
The presenting means, when the font determination means determines that the non-installed font is included in the application data, associates the non-installed font with the non-installed font among the plurality of types of fonts. Presenting a first option of executing the printing process after substituting with an alternative font and a second option of executing the printing process with the non-installed font applied,
The process executing means, when the operation for selecting the first option is received by the operation accepting means, executes a first process corresponding to the first option and selects the second option. When the operation of is received by the operation receiving means, executing a second process according to the second option,
The second process transmits the application data to an external support device capable of converting the application data into predetermined format data that enables the printing process with the non-substitutable font applied. Image forming device, including processing. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said second processing further includes reception processing for receiving said predetermined format data from said support device. 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising preview image display means for displaying a preview image representing an image expected to be formed by said printing process. The presenting means, in addition to the first option and the second option, provides a first procedure for converting the application data into the predetermined format data by a first device, which is an external device different from the support device. further presenting a third option to guide the user;
4. Any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the process executing means executes a third process corresponding to the third option when the operation for selecting the third option is accepted by the operation accepting means. The image forming apparatus according to 1. The process executing means, as the third process, outputs a first guidance option of outputting first access information for accessing the first website disclosing the first procedure, and a first guidance option representing the first procedure. and a second guidance option of outputting the procedure information, and when the operation for selecting the first guidance option is received by the operation receiving means, the first guidance option is displayed. executing a first guidance process according to the second guidance option, and executing a second guidance process according to the second guidance option when the operation for selecting the second guidance option is accepted by the operation accepting means Item 5. The image forming apparatus according to item 4. When the application data cannot be converted into the predetermined format data by the support device, a second device, which is an external device different from the support device, converts the application data into the predetermined format data. 6. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising guide means for guiding the user of a second procedure for forming the image. The guidance means includes a third guidance option of outputting second access information for accessing a second website to which the second guidance is disclosed, and a third guidance option of outputting second guidance information representing the second guidance. 4 guidance options are presented by the presentation means, and when the operation for selecting the third guidance option is received by the operation receiving means, a third guidance process corresponding to the third guidance option is performed. When the operation for selecting the fourth guidance option is received by the operation receiving means, the process execution means executes the fourth guidance process corresponding to the fourth guidance option. 7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the second procedure is guided to the user by causing the second procedure to be performed. When the operation for selecting the first option is accepted by the operation accepting means, the object included in the application data is processed by the printing process before the first process is executed by the process executing means. Further comprising a protrusion determination means for determining whether there is a possibility of protruding from the print range,
a fourth option, wherein the presenting means executes the printing process in a state in which the non-installed font is applied when the overflow determining means determines that the object may protrude from the printing range; , a fifth option of guiding the user to a third procedure for converting the application data into the predetermined format data by a third device, which is an external device different from the support device;
The process execution means executes the second process when the operation for selecting the fourth option is received by the operation receiving means, and the operation for selecting the fifth option is performed by the operation When accepted by the accepting means, executing a fifth process corresponding to the fifth option, and
When the operation for selecting the first option is accepted by the operation accepting means, the process executing means determines, by the overflow determining means, that there is no possibility that the object protrudes from the printing range. 2. If the print range is determined by the protrusion determination means, execution of the first process is postponed if the object is determined to protrude from the printing range. 8. The image forming apparatus according to any one of 1 to 7. The process execution means, as the fifth process, outputs a fifth guidance option of outputting third access information for accessing a third website disclosing the third procedure, and a third guidance option representing the third procedure. A sixth guidance option for outputting the procedure information is presented by the presentation means, and when the operation for selecting the fifth guidance option is received by the operation reception means, the fifth guidance option is displayed. executing a fifth guidance process according to the sixth guidance option, and executing a sixth guidance process according to the sixth guidance option when the operation for selecting the sixth guidance option is accepted by the operation accepting means Item 9. The image forming apparatus according to item 8. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, and
An image forming system comprising the support device. It can accept input of application data created by predetermined application software or compatible application software compatible with the application software, and can execute print processing based on the application data, and stores font data for multiple types of fonts. A control program for an image forming apparatus, comprising:
a font determination procedure for determining whether or not the application data includes non-installed fonts different from the plurality of types of fonts;
a presentation procedure for presenting a plurality of options to a user;
an operation receiving procedure for receiving an operation by the user; and
causing a computer of the image forming apparatus to execute a process execution procedure for executing a process corresponding to the operation accepted by the operation acceptance procedure;
In the presentation procedure, when the font determination procedure determines that the non-installed font is included in the application data, the non-installed font is associated with the non-installed font among the plurality of types of fonts. Presenting a first option of executing the printing process after substituting with an alternative font and a second option of executing the printing process with the non-installed font applied,
In the process execution procedure, when the operation for selecting the first option is received by the operation receiving procedure, the first process corresponding to the first option is executed and the second option is selected. When the operation of is accepted by the operation acceptance procedure, executing a second process according to the second option,
The second process transmits the application data to an external support device capable of converting the application data into predetermined format data that enables the printing process with the non-substitutable font applied. Control program, including processing. It can accept input of application data created by predetermined application software or compatible application software compatible with the application software, and can execute print processing based on the application data, and stores font data for multiple types of fonts. A control method for an image forming apparatus, comprising:
a font determination step of determining whether the application data includes a non-installed font different from the plurality of types of fonts;
a presentation step of presenting a plurality of options to the user;
an operation receiving step of receiving an operation by the user; and
including a process execution step of executing a process according to the operation accepted by the operation acceptance step;
In the presenting step, when the font determining step determines that the non-installed font is included in the application data, the non-installed font is associated with the non-installed font among the plurality of types of fonts. Presenting a first option of executing the printing process after substituting with an alternative font and a second option of executing the printing process with the non-installed font applied,
In the process execution step, when the operation for selecting the first option is received by the operation receiving step, a first process corresponding to the first option is executed to select the second option. When the operation of is accepted by the operation accepting step, executing a second process according to the second option,
The second process transmits the application data to an external support device capable of converting the application data into predetermined format data that enables the printing process with the non-substitutable font applied. Control methods, including processing.

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