JP2023000681A - Application program and image processing apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a technique to achieve smooth operation of a workflow in an application program and an image processing apparatus that can use a workflow definition file.SOLUTION: An image processing application 22 that can be executed by a CPU 11 of a PC 1 reads out a WF file at a predetermined timing, and when the read-out WF file includes an item added with setting requirement information indicating that the item is required to be set, performs notification prompting the setting of the item added with the setting requirement information by using a user IF 13 of the PC 1. The WF file is a file that defines a workflow indicating a series of processing including image processing. At least one WF file can be registered in the image processing application 22. A parameter consisting of one or more items is set to each processing described in the WF file. Each item is added with information indicating that the item is required to be set or not.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The technical field disclosed in this specification relates to a computer-executable application program for an information processing device and an image processing device.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an application program or an image processing apparatus that can use a workflow definition file that defines a workflow indicating a series of processes including image processing is known. For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-200002 discloses a technique related to workflow. In Patent Document 1, a workflow definition file (workflow definition file) containing a processing method (function) and parameters (setting values) for the processing method is stored, and processing is executed according to the workflow described in the definition file. is disclosed.

JP 2012-209665 A

The items described in the workflow definition file include individual items set for each user using the workflow, such as the address of the image processing apparatus and authentication information for the cloud server. For example, when an administrator gives a workflow definition file that describes a workflow that performs common image processing to multiple users, the workflow definition where the setting values of individual items are not finalized is required so that the user sets individual items. The file may be created by an administrator. In this case, the user will have to set personal items when executing the workflow, which hinders the smooth operation of the workflow.

This specification discloses an application program and an image processing apparatus that can use a workflow definition file, and discloses a technique for smoothly operating a workflow.

An application program designed to solve this problem is an application program that can be executed by a computer of an information processing apparatus, and causes the computer to execute a reading process for reading out a workflow definition file at a predetermined timing, and reads the workflow definition file. The file is a file defining a workflow indicating a series of processes including image processing. At least one workflow definition file can be registered in the application program, and each process described in the workflow definition file can be registered. is set with parameters consisting of one or more items, each item is associated with necessity information indicating whether or not the setting is necessary, and read out by the read processing to the computer When the workflow definition file includes a first item associated with the necessity information indicating that the setting is necessary, a user interface of the information processing device is used to issue a notification prompting the user to set the first item. It is characterized by executing the first notification process to be performed.

The workflow definition file disclosed in this specification is associated with necessity information indicating necessity of setting for each parameter item of each process described. Then, when reading out the workflow definition file, the application program disclosed in the present specification, if there is an item associated with necessity information indicating that setting is necessary, notifies the user to set the item. This allows the user to know that there are items that need to be set in the parameters of the processes that make up the workflow before the workflow is executed, and the items are set before the workflow is executed. can be expected. Therefore, the chances of performing setting work during execution of the workflow are reduced, and smooth operation of the workflow is achieved.

The information processing device or image processing device in which the application program is installed, the computer-readable storage medium storing the application program, and the control method for realizing the function of the application program are also novel and useful.

According to the technique disclosed in this specification, an application program and an image processing apparatus that can use a workflow definition file, and a technique for smoothly operating a workflow is realized.

3 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the PC; FIG. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a WF file; FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the procedure of WF creation processing; FIG. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing a procedure of WF management processing; FIG. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a management screen; FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the procedure of WF editing processing; FIG. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notification screen; FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a change screen; FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing a procedure of WF import processing; FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of an electrical configuration of an MFP; FIG.

The first embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this embodiment, a program executed by a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as "PC") will be described.

The PC 1 of this embodiment includes a controller 10 including a CPU 11 and a memory 12, as shown in FIG. The PC 1 is an example of an information processing device, and the CPU 11 is an example of a computer. The PC 1 also includes a user interface (hereinafter referred to as "user IF") 13 and a communication interface (hereinafter referred to as "communication IF") 14, which are electrically connected to the controller 10. . Note that the controller 10 in FIG. 1 is a general term for hardware and software used to control the PC 1 and does not necessarily represent a single piece of hardware that actually exists in the PC 1 .

The CPU 11 executes various processes according to programs read from the memory 12 and based on user's operations. Various programs and various data are stored in the memory 12 . The memory 12 is also used as a work area when various processes are executed. A buffer provided in the CPU 11 is also an example of a memory. Note that an example of the memory 12 is not limited to the ROM, RAM, HDD, etc. built into the PC 1, but is a storage medium readable and writable by the CPU 11, such as a recording medium such as a CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, etc. Also good.

The user IF 13 includes hardware that displays a screen for notifying the user of information, and hardware that accepts user operations. The user IF 13 may be a combination of a display capable of displaying information and a mouse or keyboard having an input reception function, or may be a touch panel having a display function and an input reception function.

The communication IF 14 includes hardware for communicating with external devices. The communication standard of the communication IF 14 is Ethernet (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), USB, or the like. The PC 1 may have a plurality of communication IFs 14 corresponding to a plurality of communication standards. The PC 1 of this embodiment may be connectable to the Internet via the communication IF 14, and may be able to use various cloud services via the Internet.

The PC 1 of this embodiment is connected to a multi-function peripheral (hereinafter referred to as "MFP") 3 via a communication IF 14, for example, as shown in FIG. The MFP 3 is a device that has at least one of an image forming function and an image reading function. The MFP 3 is an example of an image processing device.

As shown in FIG. 1, the memory 12 of the PC 1 stores an operating system (hereinafter referred to as "OS") 21 and an image processing application program (hereinafter referred to as "image processing application") 22. there is The image processing application 22 is an example of an application program. The OS 21 is, for example, Windows (registered trademark), macOS (registered trademark), Linux (registered trademark), iOS (registered trademark), and Android (registered trademark).

The image processing application 22 is a program capable of executing various functions such as image data input, conversion, and output using a device such as the MFP 3 capable of executing image processing. The image processing application 22 of this embodiment is a program corresponding to the MFP 3, and can cause the MFP 3 to perform image processing based on user's instructions.

The input functions that can be executed by the image processing application 22 include, for example, a scan function that causes the MFP 3 or the like to scan and acquire image data, and a download function that downloads image data via the Internet. Conversion functions executable by the image processing application 22 include, for example, a format conversion function for converting the format of image data and an image data editing function. The output functions that can be executed by the image processing application 22 include, for example, a print function that transmits image data to the MFP 3 or the like and executes printing, an e-mail transmission function that transmits image data by e-mail, and an image data server on the Internet. There is an upload function for transmitting image data to, etc., and a storage function for storing image data in the memory 12 .

Further, the image processing application 22 of this embodiment can use a workflow. A workflow is a series of processes to be executed by the image processing application 22, and is defined by a workflow definition file (hereinafter referred to as "WF file"). At least one WF file can be registered in the image processing application 22 of this embodiment.

Each WF file describes a plurality of functions to be executed by the image processing application 22, various parameters used when executing each function, and the execution order of the functions. A series of processes executed by the image processing application 22 according to the workflow includes image processing using a device such as the MFP 3 .

As shown in FIG. 1, the memory 12 of the PC 1 of this embodiment stores one or more WF files that define a workflow registered in the image processing application 22, for example, a WF file 23 and a WF file 24. . The WF file 23 is, for example, a WF file that defines a workflow for executing three types of functions, a scan function 23A, a conversion function 23B, and an upload function 23C, in this order, as shown in FIG. Further, the WF file 23 includes scan settings and device information specifying a device for executing scanning as parameters for the scan function 23A, and file format information as parameters for the conversion function 23B, and an upload function 23C. contains destination information as a parameter of .

The WF file 23 shown in FIG. 2 is associated with information indicating that the destination information of the upload function 23C has not been set and that setting is required. Details of the information included in the WF file will be described later.

The image processing application 22 can accept execution instructions for each function and execution instructions for registered workflows. When information is set in the parameters of the upload function 23C, the image processing application 22 can execute the workflow defined in the WF file 23. FIG. When the workflow execution instruction is received, the image processing application 22 reads the WF file 23 and executes the scan function 23A, conversion function 23B, and upload function 23C in this order based on the description.

Next, the operation of the PC 1 in which the image processing application 22 is installed will be described. It should be noted that the processing and each processing step in the flowcharts in the following description basically represent the processing of the CPU 11 according to commands written in programs such as the image processing application 22 .

First, the procedure of WF creation processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The WF creation process is executed by the CPU 11 of the PC 1 when the image processing application 22 receives a workflow creation instruction.

Upon receiving a workflow creation instruction, the CPU 11 receives designation of a function to be executed in the workflow (S101). For example, the CPU 11 causes the user IF 13 to display a list of functions and accepts the user's selection. Then, the CPU 11 causes the user IF 13 to display a list of items that need to be set as parameters of the selected function (S103), and uses the user IF 13 to accept input of setting values for each item. For example, if the selected function is the scan function, the CPU 11 accepts input of setting values for the scan setting item and the device information item.

The CPU 11 determines whether or not input of setting values for each item has been received (S105). If it is determined that the input has not been received (S105: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether or not it has received an instruction to leave the value of the item unset without setting the value (S106). If the CPU 11 determines that it has not received an instruction to register without setting (S106: NO), the CPU 11 waits until it receives an input of a set value or an instruction to register without setting.

The image processing application 22 of the present embodiment can accept creation and registration of a WF file in which some items of function parameters are not set, like the WF file 23 described above. For example, a system administrator can create a WF file in which individual information for each user who executes a workflow is not set, and distribute it to each user. Also, for example, the vendor or service person of the MFP 3 can create a sample WF file in which some items are not set, and have the user of the MFP 3 use it.

When determining that the input of the setting value has been received (S105: YES), the CPU 11 sets the value of the corresponding parameter item of the WF file to the received setting value, and furthermore, changes whether the value of the item is changeable or not. The user is queried as to whether or not it is possible, and the user's input is accepted (S111). When determining that the changeable instruction has been received (S111: YES), the CPU 11 adds changeable information to the value of the item (S112). If the CPU 11 determines that it has received an instruction to prohibit the change (S111: NO), the CPU 11 adds change prohibition information to the value of the item (S113).

The changeable information is information indicating that the value of the item can be rewritten by a user other than the creator of the WF file, and the changeable information is information indicating that rewriting is not permitted. The changeable information and the changeable information are examples of necessity information indicating that setting is unnecessary, the changeable information is an example of the first type information, and the changeable information is an example of the second type information. The item to which changeable information is added is an example of the second item.

The image processing application 22 of the present embodiment can add unchangeable information, which is information that prohibits rewriting, to some or all items of parameters when creating a WF file. For example, in the WF file 23 shown in FIG. 2, the scan setting of the scan function is information to which change-impossible information is added, and rewriting is prohibited. By adding the unchangeable information, for example, the possibility that the value of the item will be changed by the user who received the distributed WF file is reduced.

On the other hand, the device information of the scan function is setting information to which changeable information is added, and rewriting is not prohibited. A user who uses the workflow defined by the WF file 23 can use the device information for executing the scan function with or without rewriting.

On the other hand, when determining that an instruction to leave the value of the item unset has been received (S106: YES), the CPU 11 leaves the value of the item unset. Furthermore, the CPU 11 determines whether or not the value of the item has not been set, and whether or not the item is a setting-required item that makes it impossible to execute the workflow (S114). When determining that the item is a setting item (S114: YES), the CPU 11 adds setting information to the item (S115). The setting-required information is an example of necessity information indicating that setting is required, and the item to which the setting-required information is added is an example of the first item.

The parameter items include items to which default settings can be automatically applied if they are not set, and items that have no default settings and cannot be executed if they are not set. For example, if scan settings and print settings have not been set, a device such as the MFP 3 that has received a function execution instruction can apply default settings set in the device. On the other hand, if the transmission destination item of the upload function is not set, the PC 1 cannot determine the transmission destination and cannot execute the upload function. In the WF file 23 of the example shown in FIG. 2, the item of the transmission destination of the upload function is not set, and setting information is added. It should be noted that the CPU 11 may accept a user's selection as to whether or not to add setting information to items that have not yet been set.

When values and additional information have been set for all parameters of the function specified in S101, the CPU 11 determines whether there is a function to be executed next in the workflow (S121). That is, the CPU 11 inquires of the user whether or not to add more functions to the workflow. When determining that there is a function to be executed next (S121: YES), the CPU 11 returns to S101 and accepts selection of the next function. On the other hand, when determining that all the functions of the workflow have been selected (S121: NO), the CPU 11 creates a WF file in which the selected functions and their parameters are arranged in order of execution (S122). The file is stored in the memory 12, and the WF creation process ends. The WF creation process shown in FIG. 3 is an example of the creation process.

The image processing application 22 of this embodiment can create a WF file in which some items are not set, and a WF file in which required setting information and changeable information are added to each item. For example, when a created WF file is exported and used by another user, the user can easily understand items that need to be set based on the added information. Therefore, versatility in workflow operation is enhanced.

Next, the procedure of WF management processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The WF management process is executed by the CPU 11 of the PC 1 when the image processing application 22 receives a workflow management instruction.

In the WF management process, the CPU 11 sequentially reads out the WF files stored in the memory 12 (S201), and determines whether the parameter of each function of the read WF file includes an item to which required setting information is added. (S202). S201 is an example of read processing, and the timing at which a workflow management instruction is received is an example of a predetermined timing.

When determining that there is no item to which setting information is added (S202: NO), the CPU 11 classifies the WF file into the setting unnecessary group (S204). When determining that there is an item to which setting information is added (S202: YES), the CPU 11 classifies the WF file into the setting-required group (S205). Then, the CPU 11 determines whether or not all the WF files stored in the memory 12 have been classified (S208). If it is determined that it is not finished (S208: NO), the CPU 11 reads out the next WF file as an object to be executed, and classifies it similarly.

When it is determined that all WF files have been classified (S208: YES), the CPU 11 causes the user IF 13 to display a management screen in which the workflows are classified and listed based on the classification results (S211). S211 is an example of display processing. In other words, on the management screen, the WF file to which the required setting information is added is distinguished from the WF file to which the required setting information is not added, and is displayed so that it can be understood that it cannot be executed as it is. This management screen is a notification prompting setting of items to which required setting information is added, and S211 is also an example of the first notification process.

The CPU 11 causes the user IF 13 to display, for example, a management screen 50 as shown in FIG. On the management screen 50, among the registered workflows, there are no items to which setting information is added, but there is a list 51 of executable workflows and items to which setting information is added, which cannot be executed as they are. A list 52 of possible workflows is displayed separately. By displaying workflows that include items to which setting-required information is added and those that do not, the user can recognize the presence of workflows for which parameter settings have not been completed. As a result, it can be expected that the setting work for the setting items will be performed. Note that if there is no WF file to which the required setting information is added to the WF files to be displayed, the list 52 may be omitted. In addition to displaying the workflows separately, for example, the workflows may be displayed in different fonts, or an image such as a caution mark may be added to the workflows including the items to be set.

Workflow lists 51 and 52 display the names of the workflows registered in correspondence with the respective WF files stored in the memory 12 . In other words, "scan upload" and the like in FIG. 5 are names of workflows registered corresponding to respective WF files. Further, the management screen 50 includes an execution instruction button 53 for accepting a workflow execution instruction, an editing instruction button 54 for accepting a workflow editing instruction, and a creation instruction button 55 for accepting a workflow creation instruction. Note that the image processing application 22 executes the above-described WF creation processing when receiving a workflow creation instruction by operating the creation instruction button 55 .

Then, the CPU 11 determines whether or not selection of a workflow included in the list 51 or the list 52 has been received on the management screen 50 being displayed (S213). When determining that the selection has not been received (S213: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether or not an instruction to end the WF management process has been received (S214). When determining that no end instruction has been received (S214: NO), the CPU 11 waits until a workflow selection or end instruction is received. Note that the selection of workflows is exclusive, and only one of them can be selected.

When determining that the selection of the workflow has been received (S213: YES), the CPU 11 determines whether or not the selected workflow is included in the setting unnecessary group (S217).

When determining that the workflow of the setting-unnecessary group has been selected (S217: YES), the CPU 11 determines whether or not an execution instruction from the execution instruction button 53 has been received (S218). If it is determined that an execution instruction has not been received (S218: NO), or if it is determined that a workflow in the setting-required group has been selected (S217: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether an edit instruction has been received using the edit instruction button 54. It is determined whether or not (S219).

When the selection of a workflow in the list 51 of setting-unnecessary groups is accepted, both an instruction to edit and an instruction to execute the selected workflow can be accepted. On the other hand, when the selection of a workflow in the list 52 of the setting-required groups is accepted, the workflow editing instruction can be accepted, but the execution instruction cannot be accepted.

When determining that the workflow editing instruction has been received (S219: YES), the CPU 11 executes WF editing processing (S221). The WF editing process is a process of editing a registered WF file. The procedure of WF editing processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In the WF editing process, the CPU 11 determines whether or not there is an item to which necessary setting information is added to the WF file to be edited (S301). If it is determined that there is an item to which the setting information is added (S301: YES), the CPU 11 notifies the user to set the item to which the setting information is added (S302). S302 is an example of a first notification process. In S<b>302 , the CPU 11 causes the user IF 13 to display a notification screen including information on items to which setting information is added and input fields for accepting input of setting values.

For example, as in the WF file 23 shown in FIG. 2, when the required setting information is added to the item of the destination of the upload function, the CPU 11, for example, as shown in FIG. A notification screen 61 including input fields for receiving information input is displayed on the user IF 13 to receive user input. The notification screen 61 includes an "OK" button 611 for confirming the information entered in the input field, and a "Later" button 612 for indicating not to set now. If there is an item that needs to be set, notifying the user and accepting the input of the setting value reduces the chances of performing the setting work after receiving the execution instruction of the workflow, thereby ensuring smooth operation of the workflow.

Note that the image processing application 22 of this embodiment can use, for example, a cloud service with the upload function. When using a server such as a cloud service, authentication information for authenticating a user may be required in order to access the server. If an upload destination requiring authentication information is specified when an operation to the "OK" button 611 is accepted, the CPU 11 further accepts input of authentication information. The upload destination address information and authentication information are examples of the output destination information. The destination information of the upload function may differ for each user or for each workflow, and the WF file can be registered without being set, and by accepting the setting later, the scope of use of the workflow can be expanded.

Further, depending on the parameter item, the CPU 11 can accept a default instruction, which is an instruction to use the default value set in the image processing application 22 . For example, if the device information for the scan function is not set in the WF file 23 shown in FIG. 2, the CPU 11 displays a notification screen 62 as shown in FIG. . The notification screen 62 includes an “OK” button 621 , a “select default” button 622 for accepting default selection, and a “later” button 623 .

Default selection is, for example, an instruction to use the default device set in the image processing application 22 . When the default selection is accepted, the CPU 11 sets, for example, the device name or IP address of the default device as the device information. If the item has a default value that can be set, accepting the option to set the default value increases the possibility of avoiding an error during execution of the workflow.

Then, the CPU 11 determines whether or not any button has been operated. Specifically, the CPU 11 determines whether or not an instruction to set the value of the item has been received by inputting into the input field and operating the "OK" button (S311). When determining that it has not been received (S311: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether or not it has received an instruction to select the default setting (S312). When determining that the instruction to select the default setting has not been received (S312: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether or not the instruction not to set now has been received by operating the "later" button (S313). . If the CPU 11 determines that no instruction to set later has been received (S313: NO), the CPU 11 waits until any instruction is received.

When determining that an instruction to set the value of an item has been received (S311: YES), the CPU 11 determines whether or not the function of the WF file can be executed according to the received settings (S315). The CPU 11 determines, for example, whether or not the designated upload destination is accessible. When determining that the default selection instruction has been received (S312: YES), the CPU 11 determines whether or not the function of the WF file can be executed according to the default settings (S316). For example, the CPU 11 determines whether or not the default device is connected.

If it is determined to be executable (S315: YES or S316: YES), the CPU 11 rewrites the value of the item in the WF file based on the user's instruction (S317), and adds the The required setting information is changed to changeable information (S318). S317 and S318 are an example of the first rewriting process. On the other hand, if it is determined that the user's selection is not executable (S315: NO or S316: NO), the CPU 11 notifies that it is not executable, and displays the notification screen again (S319). , S311 to accept user input.

After S318 or when determining that an instruction to set later has been received (S313: YES), the CPU 11 determines whether the selected WF file has other items to which required setting information is added. (S321). If it is determined that there is (S321: YES), the CPU 11 returns to S302 and notifies the item.

When determining that there is no item to which setting information is added (S301: NO or S321: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether or not there is an item to which changeable information is added (S322). . Note that the CPU 11 may determine whether or not there is an item to which changeable information is added, other than the item changed to changeable information in S318. When determining that there is an item to which changeable information is added (S322: YES), the CPU 11 notifies the item to which changeable information is added (S325). S325 is an example of a second notification process.

The CPU 11 causes the user IF 13 to display a change screen that includes a display of the set values set in the WF file and accepts an instruction to change or not to change. For items for which default values are set in the image processing application 22, the CPU 11 can also accept an instruction to use the default values on the change screen.

For example, as in the WF file 23 shown in FIG. 2, when the device for executing the function is set but can be changed, the CPU 11 displays a change screen 71 as shown in FIG. Display on IF13. The change screen 71 includes a display of the device name set in the WF file, an "OK" button 711 for accepting an instruction to change and set, a "change to default" button 712 for accepting an instruction to change to default, and a "do not change" button 713 for accepting an instruction to register without changing.

Then, the CPU 11 determines whether or not a change instruction by operating the "OK" button 711 has been received (S331). When determining that no change instruction has been received (S331: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether or not an operation to the "change to default" button 712 has been received (S332). When determining that the instruction to change to the default has not been received (S332: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether or not the operation of the "do not change" button 713 has been received (S333). When determining that it has not been accepted (S333: NO), the CPU 11 waits until any button operation is accepted.

When determining that the change instruction has been received (S331: YES or S332: YES), the CPU 11 rewrites the WF file (S335). In this case, the CPU 11 may also determine whether or not it is executable in the same manner as in S315 and S316. S335 when the original value of the item is not the default value and is rewritten to the default value is an example of the second rewriting process.

If there is an item that can be changed even if it is not a setting item, by notifying that it can be changed and accepting a change instruction, it can be expected that the setting value will be changed to a more suitable value. Also, if the changeable item differs from the default value of the image processing application 22, accepting an instruction to change to the default value increases the possibility of avoiding the error.

After S335, or if it is determined that an instruction not to change is received (S333: YES), the CPU 11 determines whether or not the selected WF file has other items to which changeable information is added. It judges (S337). When determining that there is (S337: YES), the CPU 11 returns to S325 and notifies the next item. When determining that there is no item to which changeable information is added (S322: NO or S337: NO), the CPU 11 terminates the WF editing process and returns to the WF management process. Instead of displaying each item and receiving a selection, the CPU 11 may display a list of all items to which changeable information is added and receive a user's instruction.

Returning to the description of the WF management process in FIG. After completing the WF editing process in S221, the CPU 11 returns to S211 and displays the workflow list again. By the WF editing process, the required setting information is rewritten to changeable information, and the WF file without the required setting information is changed from the setting required group to the setting unnecessary group and displayed.

If the CPU 11 determines that the workflow selection and its execution instruction have been received (S218: YES), the CPU 11 executes the workflow based on the WF file corresponding to the selected workflow (S225). After S225, or if it is determined that an end instruction has been received (S214: YES), the CPU 11 ends the WF management process. After executing the workflow, the CPU 11 may return to the list display again.

Next, the procedure of WF import processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The WF import process is executed by the CPU 11 of the PC 1 when the image processing application 22 receives a workflow import instruction.

The image processing application 22 of this embodiment can accept instructions to export or import the created WF file. The image processing application 22 can acquire and import the exported WF file from another PC connected via a network, a server such as a cloud server, or a storage medium such as a USB memory. For example, by exporting a WF file created by the PC 1 and importing it by an image processing application on another PC or the like, the same workflow can be executed by a plurality of devices.

As described above, at the time of creating a WF file, for each parameter item included in the WF file, non-changeable information is not set for items that are prohibited from being changed, and changeable information is not set for items that are permitted to be changed. Required setting information is added to each item. A user who created a WF file with each information added can export the WF file in that state. Therefore, various information may be added to the WF file imported based on the import instruction.

In the WF import process, the CPU 11 reads the WF file for which the import instruction has been accepted (S401). S401 is an example of read processing, and the timing at which an import instruction is accepted is an example of predetermined timing.

Then, the CPU 11 determines whether or not the read WF file has an item to which necessary setting information is added (S402). If it is determined that there is (S402: YES), the CPU 11 executes the same processing as the WF editing processing described above. Specifically, the CPU 11 notifies that there is an item to be set (S403), and accepts the input of the setting value, the instruction to use the default value, and the instruction to set later (S411 to S413). S403 is an example of a first notification process. In S403, the CPU 11 may display not only the required setting items but also the entire WF file to be imported.

If it is determined that the input of the setting value or the default instruction has been received (S411: YES or S412: YES), the CPU 11 rewrites the WF file (S415) and changes the required setting information to changeable information (S416). S415 and S416 are an example of the first rewriting process. After S416 or when determining that the setting instruction has been received (S413: YES), the CPU 11 determines whether there are other items to which the required setting information is added (S417).

If there are other items to which setting information is added (S417; YES), the CPU 11 returns to S403 and repeats notification and input acceptance. If there is no item to be set (S402: NO or S417: NO), the CPU 11 stores the edited WF file in the memory 12, registers it as a workflow (S421), and ends the WF import process. By notifying the required setting items at the timing of importing the WF file and accepting the settings, it is possible to reduce the possibility of an error occurring during execution of the workflow. It should be noted that the CPU 11 may also receive an instruction to change an item to which changeable information is added.

As described in detail above, in the WF file of the present embodiment, setting required information indicating whether setting is required can be added to the items of parameters for each process described. Then, when the image processing application 22 of the present embodiment reads out the WF file, if there is an item to which required setting information is added, the image processing application 22 issues a notification prompting the user to set the item. This allows the user to know that there are items that need to be set in the parameters of the processes that make up the workflow before the workflow is executed, and the items are set before the workflow is executed. can be expected. As a result, the number of occasions for performing setting work during execution of the workflow is reduced, and smooth operation of the workflow is achieved.

Next, the second form will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this embodiment, a program executed by the MFP will be described.

The MFP 100 of this embodiment includes a controller 110 including a CPU 111 and a memory 112, as shown in FIG. MFP 100 is an example of an image processing apparatus, and CPU 111 is an example of a controller. MFP 100 also includes user IF 113 , communication IF 114 , printing unit 115 , and scanner 116 , which are electrically connected to controller 110 . MFP 100 can use printing unit 115 to print based on image data, and can use scanner 116 to read an image of a document. The printing unit 115 and scanner 116 are examples of an image processing unit.

The CPU 111 executes various processes according to programs read from the memory 112 and based on user's operations. Various programs and various data are stored in the memory 112 . The memory 112 is also used as a work area when various processes are executed. The user IF 113 includes hardware that displays a screen for notifying the user of information, and hardware that accepts user operations. Communication IF 114 includes hardware for communicating with an external device. The communication standard of the communication IF 114 is Ethernet (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), USB, or the like.

The memory 112 of the MFP 100 stores an OS 121 and an image processing application 122, as shown in FIG. The image processing application 122 is a program capable of executing a workflow. MFP 100 can import a WF file via communication IF 114 , for example, and stores the imported WF file in memory 112 .

The memory 112 of the MFP 100 of this embodiment stores WF files 123 and 124 that define a workflow including processing by an image processing application 122 . The WF files 123 and 124 are files that define a workflow indicating a series of processes including image processing such as printing and image reading, like the WF files 23 and 24 in the first mode described above.

When the MFP 100 of the present embodiment receives a workflow import instruction, it executes processing similar to the WF import processing of the first embodiment. Even when executed by the CPU 111 of the MFP 100, the WF import process of S401 is an example of the read process, and S403 is an example of the first notification process.

MFP 100 is also capable of accepting an instruction to select or execute an imported workflow. For example, MFP 100 may display a list of registered workflows when an instruction regarding workflows is received. At this time, the MFP 100 executes processing similar to the WF management processing shown in FIG. 4, and classifies and displays the workflows according to the presence or absence of items to which the required setting information is added. Even when executed by the CPU 111 of the MFP 100, S201 of the WF management process is an example of the read process, and S211 is an example of the first notification process.

As described in detail above, even with the image processing application 122 of the second form, the user can understand that there are items that need to be set in the parameters of the processes that constitute the workflow before the workflow is executed. It can be expected that the setting work for the item will be done before the workflow is executed. As a result, the number of occasions for performing setting work during execution of the workflow is reduced, and smooth operation of the workflow is achieved.

It should be noted that the present embodiment is merely an example, and does not limit the present invention in any way. Therefore, the technology disclosed in this specification can naturally be improved and modified in various ways without departing from the gist thereof. For example, instead of the PC 1, for example, a tablet computer or a smart phone may be used. In addition, the MFP 3 is not limited to any device that can process image data, such as a printer dedicated to printing, a copier, a FAX device, a scanner, or a digital camera. Also, the PC 1 may be connected to a plurality of devices.

Further, although the WF creation process by the image processing application 22 has been described in this embodiment, a program that executes the same process as the WF creation process may be a program different from the image processing application 22 . In that case, the program creates a WF file based on the user's instruction, and registers information on the created WF file in the image processing application 22 .

Also, for example, the various screens illustrated are examples, and the display form of the wording of the message and the position, shape, number, etc. of the buttons is not limited to the illustrated example.

Further, the WF file to be read is not limited to the one stored in the memory 12 as long as it can be read by the image processing application 22 . For example, there may be a WF file stored in a device other than the PC 1, such as a cloud server.

Further, for example, changeable information and changeable information may be added to the entire WF file, not limited to each item. In that case, the image processing application 22 performs each process assuming that the information is added to all the items included in the WF file.

Also, for example, in S201 of the WF management process, only the additional information included in the WF file may be read. In that case, the CPU 11 may read the selected WF file after accepting the selection in S213. Further, in the embodiment, after the management screen is displayed, the editing process is executed when the selection of the workflow and the editing instruction are accepted. However, the execution of the editing process may be started automatically. In other words, when a workflow management instruction is received and the read WF file contains required setting items, a notification screen may be displayed to receive input.

Also, for example, in the WF import process, if there is a required setting item, it is notified before registration and the setting is accepted. You do not have to accept the For example, even if a WF file has items to be set, it is imported and registered in the memory 12 is completed. It is okay to accept instructions.

Further, for example, in the WF editing process and the WF importing process, the image processing application 22 does not have to accept the default setting selection instruction. In other words, only either the input of the setting value or the instruction to set later may be accepted. Further, in the WF creation process, the image processing application 22 may be able to accept selection of default settings.

Further, in any flowchart disclosed in the embodiments, multiple processes in any multiple steps can be arbitrarily changed in execution order or executed in parallel as long as there is no contradiction in the processing contents.

Also, the processing disclosed in the embodiments may be performed by a single CPU, multiple CPUs, hardware such as an ASIC, or a combination thereof. Further, the processes disclosed in the embodiments can be realized in various forms such as a recording medium recording a program for executing the processes, a method, and the like.

1 PC
11 CPUs
100 MFPs
111 CPUs
115 printing unit 116 scanner

Claims (13)

An application program executable by a computer of an information processing device,
to the computer;
A read process for reading a workflow definition file is executed at a predetermined timing, the workflow definition file is a file defining a workflow indicating a series of processes including image processing, and the application program includes at least one workflow definition. A file can be registered, and parameters consisting of one or more items are set for each process described in the workflow definition file, and each item is associated with necessity information indicating whether or not the setting is necessary. and
Furthermore, in said computer,
When the workflow definition file read in the reading process includes a first item associated with the necessity information indicating that setting is required,
Using the user interface of the information processing device to execute a first notification process for performing notification prompting the setting of the first item;
An application program characterized by: In the application program according to claim 1,
In the first notification process, the workflow including the first item is displayed so as to be distinguished from the workflow not including the first item, thereby performing notification prompting the user to set the first item. ,
An application program characterized by: In the application program according to claim 1 or claim 2,
to the computer;
A creation process for creating the workflow definition file is executed, and in the creation process, the user interface is used to receive input of the necessity information for each parameter item of each process described in the workflow definition file. , creating the workflow definition file in which the received necessity information is associated with corresponding items;
An application program characterized by: In the application program according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
to the computer;
When the first item is included in the workflow definition file read in the read process,
the first notification process;
using the user interface to accept input of the setting value of the first item, rewrite the value of the first item described in the workflow definition file with the input setting value, and a first rewriting process of rewriting the necessity information corresponding to the item to the necessity information indicating that setting is unnecessary;
to run
An application program characterized by: In the application program according to claim 4,
In the first rewriting process,
Using the user interface, an input of a setting value of the first item or an input of a default instruction to use a default value is accepted, and when the setting value is input, the first item described in the workflow definition file is is rewritten to the input setting value, the default instruction is input, and a default value corresponding to the first item is set in the application program, and the default value is also the workflow rewriting the value of the first item described in the workflow definition file to the default value when the workflow described in the definition file can be executed;
An application program characterized by: In the application program according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The necessity information indicating that the setting is unnecessary includes first type information that is the necessity information indicating that the change is not possible and second type information that is the necessity information indicating that the change is possible,
to the computer;
When the workflow definition file read in the read process includes a second item that is the necessity information indicating that setting is unnecessary and is associated with the second type information,
Using the user interface to execute a second notification process of notifying to prompt setting of the second item;
An application program characterized by: In the application program according to claim 6,
to the computer;
When the second item is included in the workflow definition file read in the read process,
the second notification process;
If a default value corresponding to the second item is set in the application program and the value of the second item described in the workflow definition file is different from the default value, the second item executing a second rewriting process that rewrites the value to the default value;
An application program characterized by: In the application program according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
to the computer;
executing the reading process for executing the workflow definition file for which the import instruction is given, with the timing at which the import instruction for the workflow definition file is accepted as the predetermined timing;
Furthermore, in said computer,
executing the first notification process when the first item is included in the workflow definition file that is the target of the import instruction;
An application program characterized by: In the application program according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
to the computer;
executing display processing for displaying a list of the registered workflow definition files using the user interface;
Furthermore, in said computer,
executing the reading process for executing the workflow definition file displayed in the display process, with the timing of displaying the list of the workflows in the display process as the predetermined timing;
Furthermore, in said computer,
executing the first notification process when the first item is included in the workflow definition file to be displayed in the display process;
An application program characterized by: In the application program according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
In the workflow definition file, it is possible to define the workflow including the process using the server, and output destination information for accessing the server can be set in the item of the process using the server. , the item for which the output destination information is set can be associated with the necessity information indicating whether the setting is necessary;
to the computer;
when the first item included in the workflow definition file read in the read process is the item for setting the output destination information,
Using the user interface to execute the first notification process of performing notification prompting setting of the item for which the output destination information is set;
An application program characterized by: In the application program according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
The workflow definition file may include an item indicating an image processing apparatus that executes processing described in the workflow, and the item indicating the image processing apparatus may be associated with the necessity information indicating whether setting is necessary. is possible and
to the computer;
when the first item included in the workflow definition file read in the read process is the item indicating the image processing apparatus,
Using the user interface to execute the first notification process of performing notification prompting setting of the item indicating the image processing device;
An application program characterized by: An application program executable by a computer of an information processing device,
to the computer;
A creation process for creating a workflow definition file is executed, the workflow definition file is a file defining a workflow indicating a series of processes including image processing, and each process described in the workflow definition file includes 1 to A parameter consisting of multiple items is set,
Further, in the creation process, the user interface of the information processing device is used to receive a selection as to whether or not setting is necessary for each parameter item of each process described in the workflow definition file, and based on the received selection, to create the workflow definition file associated with necessity information indicating whether or not setting is necessary for each item;
An application program characterized by: an image processing unit;
a user interface;
a controller;
An image processing device comprising
The controller is
A reading process for reading out a workflow definition file is executed at a predetermined timing, the workflow definition file is a file defining a workflow indicating a series of processes including image processing, and the image processing apparatus has at least one workflow. A definition file can be registered, each process described in the workflow definition file is set with parameters consisting of one or more items, and each item has necessity information indicating whether or not setting is necessary. is associated with
Furthermore, in the controller,
When the workflow definition file read out in the reading process includes a first item associated with the necessity information indicating that setting is necessary,
Using the user interface to execute a first notification process of notifying to prompt setting of the first item;
An image processing apparatus characterized by:

Images