JP4770638B2 - Image forming apparatus and program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus, an image processing system, an information processing apparatus, a program, and the like.

  In recent years, the necessity of crisis management for disasters has been strongly screamed. Examples of disasters include fires, meteorological disasters (heavy rain, thunder, snow, etc.), major disasters such as earthquakes, eruptions, tsunamis, and typhoons. For example, various devices such as an image processing apparatus for processing an image to be output to a recording medium have been studied for dealing with such disasters.

  Here, conventionally, there is a measure for ensuring safety as a countermeasure when a disaster occurs in an image processing apparatus. As a conventional technique described in the publication, for example, a technique for confirming an earthquake or a fall of the apparatus from the fluctuation of the voltage or period of the apparatus through the abnormal vibration determination function means and forcibly stopping the power supply of the fixing heater (See, for example, Patent Document 1).

  As another technology described in the publication, a copier or printer connected to a network or a telephone line has a function of receiving a disaster signal from a signal source, and when the disaster signal is received, the disaster data is printed on a sheet. There is a technique for outputting a printout and then shutting off the power (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

Furthermore, as a conventional technique described in the gazette related to the user interface, an interactive system in which a line mode user interface and a graphical user interface are mixed, so that any user can use icons without confusion. There is a technique for improving usability (see, for example, Patent Document 3).
Furthermore, there is one that can freely manage the latest operation screen resources required according to version upgrades or specification changes of peripheral devices without depending on memory resources (see, for example, Patent Document 4).

JP-A-11-184327 JP 2001-023060 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-333865 JP-A-11-175214

  An object of the present invention is to provide an image processing apparatus with improved user operability for special functions required when a disaster occurs.

In order to solve the technical problem, an image forming apparatus to which the present invention is applied includes a receiving unit that receives a user operation, an instruction specifying unit that specifies an instruction related to image processing from the operation received by the receiving unit, Providing means for providing the user with operation instruction correspondence information, which is information indicating correspondence between an operation on the receiving means and an instruction relating to image processing and image forming processing specified from the operation by the instruction specifying means, and specifying by the instruction specifying means An image processing unit that performs image processing based on the instruction, and an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet using consumables based on the instruction specified by the instruction specifying unit and the image data processed by the image processing unit. obtaining means for obtaining information on disaster, in accordance with information relating to disaster acquired by the acquisition means, the providing means An operation instruction corresponding information including a disaster response information was changed or limit the functionality of the normal operation instruction corresponding information to prolonged savings to apparatus utilizing the consumable can be achieved from the normal operation instruction corresponding information provided Ri And switching means for switching.

Here, the switching means is characterized in that the stage of the disaster is determined from the information relating to the disaster acquired by the acquiring means, and the operation instruction corresponding information is switched according to this stage.
Further, the information processing apparatus further includes a discrimination information holding unit that holds stage judgment data in which disaster evaluation items and stages are associated with each other, and the switching unit determines a stage according to the acquired information about the disaster and the stage judgment data. Can be characterized.

  Also, UI information holding means for holding a plurality of user interface information (UI information), and UI information reading for reading out UI information corresponding to a disaster situation from the plurality of UI information held in the UI information holding means. And providing means for presenting the operation instruction corresponding information based on the UI information read by the UI information reading means.

The UI information selecting means further selects UI information according to the disaster type and disaster stage from the UI information held in the UI information holding means, and the UI information reading means is selected by the UI information selecting means. Thus, the UI information can be read from the UI information holding means.
Further, the acquisition means may be characterized by acquiring information on a disaster through any one of an independent device and an external device through the reception means.

  On the other hand, an image processing system to which the present invention is applied includes a receiving unit that receives a user operation, an instruction specifying unit that specifies an instruction related to image processing from the operation received by the receiving unit, and an operation and an instruction specifying unit for the receiving unit. Presenting means for presenting to the user information (operation instruction correspondence information) indicating correspondence with an instruction relating to image processing specified by the operation by the image processing means, and image processing means for performing image processing based on the instruction specified by the instruction specifying means; And an acquisition means for acquiring information related to a disaster, and a switching means for switching the user interface from a normal user interface to a disaster response user interface using the information related to the disaster acquired by the acquisition means. .

  From another point of view, the information processing apparatus to which the present invention is applied is information (operation instruction correspondence) indicating correspondence between a user operation accepted for image processing of the image processing apparatus and an instruction regarding image processing specified from this operation. Information) to the image processing apparatus, and holding means for holding normal operation instruction correspondence information and disaster response operation instruction correspondence information as operation instruction correspondence information provided to the image processing apparatus by the provision means And a disaster information acquisition means for acquiring information related to the disaster, and the providing means includes normal operation instruction correspondence information held in the holding means based on the information about the disaster acquired by the disaster information acquisition means, and Any one of the operation instruction correspondence information is read out from the operation instruction correspondence information corresponding to the disaster.

Here, it is possible to further include a discrimination information holding unit that holds discrimination information for discriminating a disaster at any stage from the information about the disaster acquired by the disaster information acquisition unit.
The distinction information retained in the distinction information retaining means may be retained according to the type of disaster.
Further, a switching request output unit that reads out the discrimination information from the discrimination information holding unit, determines the stage of the disaster by collating with the information about the disaster acquired by the disaster information acquisition unit, and outputs a switching request of the operation instruction correspondence information to the providing unit It may be characterized by further comprising.

Further, the operation instruction correspondence information held in the holding means is used when using user interface information (UI information) used when changing or limiting the function of the image processing apparatus and / or a special function during a disaster. The UI information may be included.
Further, the providing means may be characterized in that the operation instruction correspondence information to be selected according to the disaster type and the disaster stage is specified, and any operation instruction correspondence information is read from the holding means.

Accordingly, a computer program to which the present invention is applied is an accepting unit that accepts a user operation from an image forming apparatus that includes an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet using a consumable and a built-in computer. And an instruction specifying unit that specifies an instruction related to image processing from the operation received by the receiving unit, an operation on the receiving unit, and an instruction related to the image processing and image forming process specified from the operation by the instruction specifying unit Providing means for providing operation instruction correspondence information, which is information indicating correspondence, to the user, image processing means for performing image processing based on the instruction specified by the instruction specifying means, and the image forming unit specified by the instruction specifying means Control to perform image formation based on the received instruction and the image data processed by the image processing means In accordance with the disaster-related information acquired by the acquisition means, the information provided by the providing means is changed from the normal operation instruction correspondence information to the consumables. The image forming apparatus is provided with switching means for switching from the normal operation instruction response information to the operation instruction response information including disaster response whose function is changed or limited so that the apparatus can be used for a long time .

According to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to prolong the use of the apparatus when a disaster occurs.
According to the second aspect of the present invention, it is possible to distinguish the stage of the disaster from the acquired information about the disaster, and it is possible to provide a more preferable UI than when the invention according to the second aspect is not adopted. .
According to the invention described in claim 3, it is possible to easily distinguish the stages as compared with the case where the invention described in claim 3 is not adopted.
According to the invention described in claim 4, it is possible to provide a UI corresponding to the stage of the disaster.
According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the UI providing process can be easily performed as compared with the case where the present configuration is not adopted.
According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to realize the acquisition of information related to disasters in a preferable mode as compared with the case where this configuration is not adopted.

According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus capable of prolonging the use of the apparatus when a disaster occurs.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image processing apparatus 10 to which the exemplary embodiment is applied. The image processing apparatus 10 includes a computer apparatus such as an embedded computer integrated with an image forming apparatus functioning as a printer, a facsimile machine, a copier, etc., a computer apparatus such as a personal computer externally connected to the image forming apparatus, or a scanner. It is realized by a computer device such as an embedded computer integrated with an image input device functioning as a computer device or a computer device such as a personal computer externally connected to the image input device. The image processing apparatus 10 is installed, for example, in a so-called convenience store that is a retail store that handles a large number of varieties in a small space. The image processing apparatus 10 installed in a so-called convenience store or the like is used as a printer, a facsimile machine, a copying machine, a scanner, or an apparatus for printing out a photograph taken with a digital camera during normal operation. There is.

  In addition, the image processing apparatus 10 includes an external IF (interface) 11 that executes communication with the outside, for example, acquiring various types of information from a server (see FIG. 12). The external IF is connected to, for example, an in-house network, the Internet, a dedicated line for connecting to a server, a VPN (Virtual Private Network), or the like. The image processing apparatus 10 also includes a disaster information acquisition unit 12 that acquires disaster information (information related to disasters), and a UI switching unit 13 that switches a user interface (UI) based on the disaster information acquired from the disaster information acquisition unit 12. And. Further, the UI switching unit 13 includes a discrimination information storage unit 14 which is a memory in which various types of information when a disaster type determination and a disaster level (disaster stage) determination described later are performed.

  Further, the image processing apparatus 10 is configured by a position indicating device such as a mouse and a touch panel or an input device such as a keyboard, for example, and a receiving unit that receives a user operation, and an instruction related to image processing based on the operation received by the receiving unit. A user interface unit (UI unit) 15 having a specifying unit to be specified and a UI information storage unit 16 in which various types of user interface information are stored are provided. The UI unit 15 reads predetermined UI information from the UI information storage unit 16 and expands it in response to a switching request from the UI switching unit 13.

The presenting unit provides predetermined information to a user (including a user, an operator, an operator, or a store clerk of a retail store) using the image processing apparatus 10 by using a display function such as a display. Present visually. The display is realized by a VFD (fluorescent display tube) or a liquid crystal display having various resolutions as required. In addition to visual presentation, for example, presentation by voice using a sound generator such as a speaker, presentation by blinking light using a lamp or the like, presentation by vibration using a vibration generating element such as a vibrator may be used.
The reception unit is realized by a sensor provided on a display that detects an operation on virtual switches such as buttons displayed on the display, a hardware switch, and the like, and is operated by a user who uses the image processing apparatus 10. Accept. The reception unit may receive a voice operation using a microphone or the like that performs voice input.
The instruction specifying unit is realized, for example, when the CPU executes a program held in the memory, and specifies an instruction related to image processing from the received operation.
In addition to being provided in the image processing apparatus 10 itself, the UI unit 15 can also be used by connecting an information processing apparatus such as a mobile phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistance), an electronic notebook, or a personal computer by wire or wireless. In some cases, information input from a user such as disaster information may be recognized using various input functions.

  Further, the image processing apparatus 10 includes a device control unit 17 that controls the entire image processing apparatus 10. Furthermore, as various functions involved in image processing, for example, an image acquisition unit 21 that acquires image data to be processed from a computer such as a scanner, a telephone line, or an externally connected PC (personal computer), and the acquired image An image processing unit 22 that processes data and an image forming unit 23 that outputs processed image data are provided. Here, the image forming unit 23 employs, for example, an image forming system that forms a toner image on a sheet by an electrophotographic system, or an ink jet system that forms an image by ejecting ink onto a sheet, for example. Can be included. Note that the image forming unit 23 is not executed until an image is actually formed on a sheet, but is configured to output image data to an image forming apparatus connected via a predetermined line. It is also possible.

The image processing apparatus 10 shown in FIG. 1 has several modes when acquiring information related to a disaster.
First, the disaster information acquisition unit 12 acquires information related to a disaster from the UI unit 15. For example, if the UI unit 15 of the image processing apparatus 10 has a function for inputting an emergency state, information relating to a disaster can be acquired by recognizing the input by this function. Examples include emergency buttons (switches) and emergency command settings. When this disaster information is acquired by the disaster information acquisition unit 12, the UI switching unit 13 responds to a disaster from the normal UI by using a predetermined user interface (UI) for the UI unit 15 based on the acquired disaster information. Switch to UI.

  Second, there is an aspect in which the disaster information acquisition unit 12 functions as a disaster recognition unit and autonomously determines information related to a disaster (disaster information). For example, it has a seismometer and vibration detection function to recognize disasters. As the seismometer, for example, a method of detecting the initial tremor (P wave) of an earthquake, detecting the magnitude and position of the earthquake, and recognizing the degree of earthquake influence on the image processing apparatus 10 can be considered. Then, similarly to the first aspect, the UI switching unit 13 performs a process of switching a predetermined UI from a normal UI to a disaster response UI.

  Furthermore, as a third aspect, there is an aspect in which information relating to disaster (disaster information) is received via a network. For example, the external IF (interface) 11 acquires information relating to a disaster from a server computer via the Internet, which is a network using a TCP / IP communication protocol. Examples of information relating to disasters via this network include information provided by government agencies and local governments, and information provided by external organizations such as companies. Then, similarly to the first and second aspects, the UI switching unit 13 performs a process of switching a predetermined UI from a normal UI to a disaster response UI.

  Furthermore, as a fourth aspect, there is an aspect in which an inquiry is made to a server via a network, and information relating to a disaster is acquired by a so-called pull method (a method in which a user pulls expected content). In the fourth aspect, the disaster information acquisition unit 12 outputs inquiry information to the external IF 11, and the external IF 11 accesses an external server computer via the Internet, for example, based on the inquiry information. To get information about disasters. Then, similarly to the first to third aspects, the UI switching unit 13 performs a process of switching a predetermined UI from a normal UI to a disaster response UI.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of disaster information acquired by the disaster information acquisition unit 12 and used for switching processing of the UI switching unit 13. Information relating to a disaster (disaster information) is created, for example, in an XML file. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the disaster information includes various information used for determining the disaster level such as the location of the image processing device, the disaster type, the seismic intensity, the epicenter, the magnitude, and the image processing device neighboring information. As the “disaster type”, an example of “earthquake” is shown in FIG. Depending on the type of disaster level (stage of disaster), items such as seismic intensity, epicenter, and magnitude are determined (described later).

Next, the distinction information storage unit 14 will be described. The distinction information storage unit 14 formed by a storage medium such as a hard disk drive (HDD) is read / written by the UI switching unit 13 which is a software function executed by a CPU (described later).
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the level determination table stored in the distinction information storage unit 14. The level determination table is read by a CPU that executes a processing program, and temporarily stored in, for example, a work memory (described later) for the work of the CPU. As shown in FIG. 3, this level judgment table is set so that an evaluation item (judgment item) and its degree are determined for each disaster type, and the disaster level (stage of disaster) can be determined accordingly. . The disaster types include earthquake disaster, storm and flood disaster, volcanic disaster, nuclear disaster, snow disaster, accident disaster, and other disasters. In FIG. 3, an earthquake disaster is selected.

  In FIG. 3, the seismic intensity of the own device, the distance from the own device to the epicenter, the magnitude of the epicenter, neighborhood information, and elapsed time are listed as evaluation items for the earthquake disaster. FIG. 3 also shows the disaster level LV1 as the first disaster level, the disaster level LV2 as the second disaster level, and the disaster level LV3 as the third disaster level as the determined disaster levels. . Regarding the seismic intensity of the own device, which is an evaluation item, for example, the standard value is the disaster level LV1 from seismic intensity 5 to lower, the disaster level LV2 from seismic intensity 5 to seismic intensity 7, and the disaster level LV3 from seismic intensity 8 or higher.

  Similarly, the distance from the own device to the epicenter is, for example, a disaster level LV1 when the reference value is more than 50 km, a disaster level LV2 when it is 50 km to 20 km, and a disaster level LV3 when it is closer than 20 km. Yes. As for the magnitude of the epicenter, for example, when the reference value is smaller than the magnitude 4.0, the disaster level LV1, when the magnitude is 4.1 to 7.0, the disaster level LV2, and when the magnitude exceeds the magnitude 7.1, the disaster level LV3. It is said that.

  Further, as the neighborhood information, for example, “rescue required” is a disaster level LV2, and “sound communication failure” is a disaster level LV3. Furthermore, the elapsed time is set as a reference value, for example, disaster level LV1 within one week or more, disaster level LV2 within 4 days, disaster level LV3 within 2 days. The UI switching unit 13 reads the level determination table as shown in FIG. 3 from the HDD, sets it in the memory, and collates it with disaster information as shown in FIG. 2, for example. Then, the disaster level LV1 to the disaster level LV3 are determined by this collation, and the disaster level is set in the memory.

  As described above, the disaster level serving as a guideline for determining the UI is determined based on the matching (matching) between the level determination table determined for each disaster type and the acquired disaster information. In the level determination table, a reference value corresponding to the disaster level is determined for each evaluation item. By observing the matching between the level determination table and the disaster information, a preferable disaster level can be obtained for each evaluation item. The determination of the disaster level can be performed using, for example, the highest level among the evaluation items of the disaster information. For example, an average level can be determined as the disaster level. Furthermore, the level may be determined for each evaluation item, and the UI may be changed for each item.

Next, UI display stored in the UI information storage unit 16 and displayed on the display constituting the UI unit 15 will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a normal function selection user interface (UI). In a normal time, as shown in FIG. 4, a UI is provided so that various functions executable by the image processing apparatus 10 can be selected. Of course, the executable basic functions differ depending on the type of the image processing apparatus 10. Also, generally, after a predetermined function is selected from the display as shown in FIG. 4, a detailed UI is transferred for each function. Here, for example, in the image processing apparatus 10 having various functions such as a facsimile, a printer, and a copier disposed in an office, a UI for improving convenience of various operations in the office and services in the office is a normal UI. Has been adopted as. In addition, for example, an image processing apparatus disposed in a convenience store or the like employs a UI that takes into account convenience for convenience store users as a normal UI.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a first example of a disaster user interface (UI) for function selection. In the example shown in FIG. 5, it is clearly indicated that the scanner and the facsimile (FAX) cannot be used (cannot be used), and in this example, the selection is not possible. It is also possible to change the function that cannot be used according to the type of disaster and according to the delivery destination client. This unusable function can be determined in advance depending on the level of the disaster, but can be appropriately changed depending on the situation at the time of the disaster. In such a case, the UI unit 15 acquires the disaster UI (first example) shown in FIG. 5 from the UI information storage unit 16 and inquires of the device control unit 17 to recognize the unusable function. And what is necessary is just to provide a user at the time of disaster which changed this content in addition to UI at the time of disaster (1st example) shown in FIG.
In this way, in an emergency such as when a disaster occurs, in order to cope with a power supply situation that is expected to deteriorate, and to ensure safety, further, for example, conserving consumables and using the device In some cases, it is required to change or limit the function of the image processing apparatus 10 for various purposes, such as for the purpose of prolonging the operation time. In such a case, as shown in FIG. 5, it is preferable to improve the user's convenience by preparing a UI corresponding to, for example, a changed or limited function.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a second example of a disaster user interface (UI). In this second example, the selection of the special function at the time of disaster (here, “safety confirmation function”) as well as the restriction for function selection (here, “restriction of file operation”) is the normal UI shown in FIG. Have been added. In FIG. 6, disaster information displays such as text information and diagrams (such as WWW) are also added to the normal UI.

  Here, for example, in the “safety confirmation function”, it is possible to use the image processing apparatus 10 to perform, for example, safety registration with a public office. For example, after recognizing that the “safety confirmation function” has been selected, a display for outputting a print in which an entry format for safety registration is printed is displayed. When a print output instruction made in accordance with this display is recognized, a print in an entry format for safety registration is output from the image forming unit 23. In addition, the UI for the “safety confirmation function” can instruct reading of the entry format. For example, when code information that can be machine-recognized by the image processing apparatus 10 is printed in the entry format, for example, the local government that performs dialing and the like on the basis of this code information, for example, collectively processes safety registration It is also possible to send the read image by facsimile. In this way, the image processing apparatus 10 can also be used as a rescue assistance terminal when a disaster occurs.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a third example of a disaster user interface (UI). In this third example, functions are not limited or added from the function selection user interface (UI) at the normal time as shown in FIG. It is an example UI at the time of providing a function to a user. Here, as a special function at the time of a disaster, a function related to collecting and developing information at the time of disaster (safety registration, temporary administrative service) and a function related to support information (support information registration required) are displayed. In addition, selection of functions of the image processing apparatus with limited functions (selection of limited functions) is displayed.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, for example, in an emergency such as when a disaster occurs, or in an unsteady state, a user who does not normally use the image processing apparatus 10 inevitably has the image processing apparatus. It may happen that 10 must be used. At this time, there may be a case where a special function at the time of a disaster that cannot be dealt with by a normal specification UI such as a public usage mode such as emergency response or safety confirmation may be added. In such a case, such a special function cannot be used with a normal specification UI, and the usability of the image processing apparatus 10 is very poor, and a special UI with improved operability is desired. In the present embodiment, these requests are met.

Next, processing executed by the image processing apparatus 10 shown in FIG. 1 will be described using a flowchart.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing overall processing executed by the image processing apparatus 10. The disaster information acquisition unit 12 of the image processing apparatus 10 acquires disaster information by a predetermined method (step 101). This predetermined method obtains information about a disaster from the UI unit 15 in the first aspect described above. In the first aspect, for example, when a predetermined input related to the occurrence of a disaster is input from the user in the UI unit 15, for example, a predetermined command is output from the UI unit 15 to the disaster information acquisition unit 12. The disaster information acquisition unit 12 determines the disaster type, disaster level, etc. from this command, and outputs disaster information as shown in FIG. 2 to the UI switching unit 13 as contents that can be determined by the UI switching unit 13. .

In step 101, in the case of the second mode described above, the disaster information acquisition unit 12 autonomously determines and acquires information related to the disaster (disaster information), and the disaster information acquisition unit 12 receives the UI. Disaster information as shown in FIG. 2 is output to the UI switching unit 13 as contents that can be determined by the switching unit 13.
In the case of the third aspect described above, information on disaster (disaster information) is received via the network by the external IF (interface) 11. Thereafter, the disaster information acquisition unit 12 converts the received disaster information into disaster information as shown in FIG. 2 and outputs it to the UI switching unit 13 as contents that can be determined by the UI switching unit 13.
Further, in the fourth aspect described above, the disaster information acquisition unit 12 outputs inquiry information to the external IF (interface) 11, and the external IF (interface) 11 sends the inquiry information to the server via the network. Output to computer. And the disaster information acquisition part 12 acquires the information (disaster information) regarding a disaster via the external IF (interface) 11 as a reply of this inquiry. Thereafter, the disaster information acquisition unit 12 converts the acquired information about the disaster into disaster information as shown in FIG. 2 and outputs the disaster information to the UI switching unit 13.

  Next, the UI switching unit 13 that has acquired the disaster information from the disaster information acquisition unit 12 in step 101 executes a predetermined UI switching determination process as described later (step 102). Thereafter, the UI unit 15 that has acquired the switching request information from the UI switching unit 13 performs a UI information switching process as described later (step 103), and the process ends.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart detailing the UI switching determination process shown in step 102 of FIG. The UI switching unit 13 of the image processing apparatus 10 first determines whether the disaster information acquired by the disaster information acquisition unit 12 is disaster occurrence / additional information or disaster end information (step 201). If it is disaster end information, the disaster level is set to 0, the normal UI is selected, the normal UI selection information is set in the memory (step 202), and the process proceeds to the UI information distribution process shown in step 103 of FIG.

  If the UI switching unit 13 determines in step 201 that the disaster has occurred / normal information, the disaster type is then determined (step 203). Then, the level determination table (see FIG. 3) stored in the distinction information storage unit 14 is read and written (set) in a working memory (described later) (step 204). Thereafter, the level determination table is inquired using the acquired disaster information (step 205). Then, the disaster level obtained as a result of inquiring the level judgment table from the disaster information is written (set) in the work memory (step 206), and the process proceeds to the UI information switching process shown in step 103 of FIG. To do.

Next, UI information switching processing will be described.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart detailing the UI information switching process shown in step 103 of FIG. The UI unit 15 of the image processing apparatus 10 selects a UI corresponding to the disaster type and the disaster level from the UI information storage unit 16 (see FIG. 1) (step 301). Thereafter, the UI unit 15 expands the UI information selected and acquired into a UI (step 302), and the process ends.

  FIGS. 11A and 11B show an example of memory information (for example, a matching table) for selecting a UI according to the type of disaster and the disaster level (stage of disaster) used in the processing of step 301. Yes. The matching table as the memory information as shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B is stored in, for example, a predetermined memory used by the UI information storage unit 16 or the UI unit 15. In the predetermined memory, a plurality of matching tables such as FIGS. 11A and 11B are stored. In these matching tables, the UI type according to the disaster level is shown for each disaster type. In the examples of FIGS. 11A and 11B, UIs for each disaster level LV1 to LV3 are shown for each disaster type such as earthquake, storm and flood damage, volcano, nuclear power, snow damage, accident, and other disaster types.

  Information referred to in each matching table corresponds to UI information stored in the UI information storage unit 16. In the examples shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, “normal” corresponds to the UI shown in FIG. 4, and “disaster UI1” corresponds to the first example shown in FIG. 5, for example. Similarly, “disaster UI2” corresponds to, for example, the second example illustrated in FIG. 6, and “disaster UI3” corresponds to, for example, the third example illustrated in FIG. 7. For example, when the matching table shown in FIG. 11A is selected, when the UI switching unit 13 receives an instruction to switch to a UI corresponding to the disaster level LV2 due to an earthquake disaster, the UI unit 15 “Disaster UI2” is inquired from the matching table shown in FIG. Then, the UI unit 15 reads out the disaster-time UI as shown in FIG. 6 from the UI information storage unit 16 and develops it into the UI.

  In addition, as shown in (a) and (b), which matching table is selected from a plurality of matching tables is, for example, information that can specify a location such as an address or a zip code where the image processing apparatus 10 is installed. This can be done by recognizing the input. For example, if the image processing apparatus 10 is installed in an environment where there is no concern about volcanic disasters and snow disasters can be neglected with the input address information, for example, FIG. A matching table as shown in FIG. For example, when it is installed in a warning area for an earthquake disaster, a matching table that makes the response to the earthquake disaster sensitive is selected. By selecting a table corresponding to the region from the plurality of matching tables, it is possible to further improve the performance as a disaster-response image processing apparatus.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a state in which disaster information is distributed from the server 50, which is a predetermined distribution server, and the client (image processing apparatus 10) is managed. In FIG. 12, a plurality of clients (image processing apparatus 10) managed by the server 50 are shown. The plurality of clients (image processing apparatus 10) are grouped in a nearby area and classified into a plurality of districts such as district A, district B, and district C. The classifications of the district A, the district B, the district C, and the like are stored in advance in a client information database DB (not shown) provided in the server 50 together with client information, for example. Moreover, it can also be configured to appropriately determine the district division from the client installation location information stored in the client information DB according to the disaster situation, level, and the like. With this configuration, it is possible to provide more appropriate disaster information to the client (image processing apparatus 10) from the remote server 50 in accordance with the disaster situation and level.

  In FIG. 12, first, since there is no need to change the UI in the area A, the end information is output, and the normal UI information as shown in FIG. 4 is distributed to the client in the area A (image processing apparatus 10). To do. Alternatively, when the client in the district A is in a normal state, it is possible to select a process for not newly distributing UI information. In the example of FIG. 12, for example, the district B can have a moderate influence of the disaster. Therefore, for district B, the same disaster level is selected in the level determination table as shown in FIG. 3, and the same UI information is selected in the matching table as shown in FIG. The server 50 is preset and the same disaster information is transmitted from the server 50. As a result, the client (image processing apparatus 10) in the district B provides the disaster-time UI of the second example shown in FIG. 6 to the client (image processing apparatus 10). Similarly, in the example of FIG. 12, the area C indicates an area where the influence of the disaster is large, such as a suburban area where the disaster occurs. The client (image processing apparatus 10) in the area C is provided with the disaster UI of the third example shown in FIG. 7 as the UI. Thus, in the present embodiment, disaster information is distributed from the server 50 so as to be unified into different UIs for each specific area. As a delivery method, in addition to the case of delivery from the server 50 by the push method, the client (image processing apparatus 10) may receive the delivery by the pull method.

  Various UI information as exemplified in FIGS. 4 to 7 can also be configured to be distributed from a predetermined distribution server. The UI information distributed from the predetermined distribution server is stored in the UI information storage unit 16 of each image processing apparatus 10. With this configuration, it is possible to easily provide a new disaster-time UI even when the disaster-time UI is strengthened as compared with the installation time.

  In addition to the above, as a criterion for determination and selection made by the UI switching unit 13 described above, an elapsed time from the occurrence of a disaster can be considered. For example, if it is immediately before the occurrence of a disaster, it is preferable that UI information related to a secondary disaster prevention function, an earthquake resistance function, or the like is distributed. Also, it is desired that UI information relating to, for example, securing a power supply / line, saving mode for toner, linkage with disaster information, linkage with other devices, and the like, is delivered within a few hours immediately after the occurrence. Furthermore, for example, after half a day to one day has passed and until several days thereafter, UI information relating to collection of regional information and information deployment to the region is preferable. The UI switching unit 13 and the UI unit 15 may be configured to select preferable UI information corresponding to the elapsed time from the UI information storage unit 16.

Finally, a hardware configuration of a part of the image processing apparatus 10 that functions as a computer will be described.
FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of a part that functions as a computer of the image processing apparatus 10, for example. The computer shown in FIG. 13 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201 which is a calculation means, a mother board (M / B) chipset 202, and a main memory 203 connected to the CPU 201 via a CPU bus. Further, the video card 204 and the display 210 are connected to the CPU 201 via the M / B chipset 202. In addition, for example, a magnetic disk device (HDD) 205 and a network interface 206 connected to the M / B chipset 202 via a PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) bus or the like are provided. Furthermore, a keyboard / pointing device 209 connected from the PCI bus to the M / B chipset 202 via a low-speed bus such as a bridge circuit 207 and an ISA (Industry Standard Architecture) bus is provided.

  Here, the CPU 201 executes various software such as an OS (Operating System) and an application to realize the various functions described above. The main memory 203 functioning as a working memory has a storage area for storing various software, data used for executing the software, and the like. Furthermore, the magnetic disk device 205 is a memory having a storage area for storing input data for various software, output data from various software, and the like. In the present embodiment, it also functions as the distinction information storage unit 14 and the UI information storage unit 16. Instead of the magnetic disk device 205, a semiconductor memory represented by a flash memory may be used. In the present embodiment, the user interface unit 15 provides a UI via the display 210 and the keyboard / pointing device 209. Further, the external IF 11 is realized using the hardware of the network interface 206.

  As described above, the various processes shown in the present embodiment are realized by application programs executed by the CPU 201 using the main memory 203 which is a working memory. When the application program is provided to a customer (including a user) for the image processing apparatus 10 that is a computer, the application program is a program that is executed by the computer in addition to a case where the application program is installed in the apparatus. A form provided by a storage medium or the like stored in a computer-readable manner is conceivable. As this storage medium, for example, a CD-ROM medium or the like corresponds, and a program is read and executed by a CD-ROM reader (not shown) or the like. These programs may be provided via a network interface 206 via a network by a program transmission device (not shown), for example. The program transmission apparatus includes, for example, a memory that stores a program and a program transmission unit that provides the program via a network, which is provided in a server computer on the host side.

It is a functional block diagram which shows the structural example of the image processing apparatus with which this Embodiment is applied. It is the figure which showed an example of the disaster information acquired in the disaster information acquisition part, and used for the switching process of UI switching part. It is the figure which showed the example of the level judgment table memorize | stored in a discrimination information storage part. It is the figure which showed an example of the function selection user interface (UI) at the time of normal. It is the figure which showed the 1st example of the user interface at the time of a disaster for function selection (UI). It is the figure which showed the 2nd example of the user interface (UI) at the time of a disaster. It is the figure which showed the 3rd example of the user interface (UI) at the time of a disaster. It is the flowchart which showed the whole process performed with an image processing apparatus. 10 is a flowchart detailing a UI switching determination process shown in step 102 of FIG. 8. 10 is a flowchart detailing a UI information switching process shown in Step 103 of FIG. 8. (A), (b) is the figure which showed the example of a matching table used for the process of step 301 for selecting the UI according to the disaster type and disaster level. It is a figure showing a state where disaster information is distributed from a predetermined distribution server and a client (image processing apparatus) is managed. For example, it is a diagram showing a hardware configuration of a computer that functions as an image processing apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Image processing apparatus, 11 ... External IF (interface), 12 ... Disaster information acquisition part, 13 ... UI switching part, 14 ... Discrimination information storage part, 15 ... User interface part (UI part), 16 ... UI information storage part , 17 ... Device control unit, 21 ... Image acquisition unit, 22 ... Image processing unit, 23 ... Image forming unit, 50 ... Server

Claims (7)

A receiving means for receiving a user operation;
Instruction specifying means for specifying an instruction related to image processing from the operation received by the receiving means;
Providing means for providing a user with operation instruction correspondence information, which is information indicating a correspondence between an operation on the reception unit and an instruction regarding the image processing and the image forming process specified from the operation by the instruction specifying unit;
Image processing means for performing image processing based on the instruction specified by the instruction specifying means;
Image forming means for forming an image on paper using consumables based on the instruction specified by the instruction specifying means and the image data processed by the image processing means;
An acquisition means for acquiring information on disaster;
In response to the information about the disaster acquired by the acquisition unit, the normal operation instruction is provided so that consumables can be saved from the normal operation instruction correspondence information for the information provided by the providing unit and the use of the apparatus can be prolonged. An image forming apparatus comprising: switching means for switching from response information to operation instruction response information including disaster response whose function is changed or limited . The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the switching unit determines a disaster stage from the disaster-related information acquired by the acquisition unit, and switches to different operation instruction corresponding information according to the stage. It further comprises discrimination information holding means for holding stage judgment data in which the disaster evaluation items and the stage are associated with each other,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the switching unit determines the stage according to the acquired information relating to the disaster and the stage determination data. UI information holding means for holding a plurality of user interface information (UI information);
UI information reading means for reading UI information corresponding to a disaster situation from among the plurality of UI information held in the UI information holding means,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the providing unit provides operation instruction corresponding information based on the UI information read by the UI information reading unit. UI information selection means for selecting the UI information corresponding to the type of disaster and the stage of the disaster from the UI information held in the UI information holding means,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the UI information reading unit reads UI information from the UI information holding unit according to selection by the UI information selecting unit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the acquisition unit acquires the information on the disaster through any one of an independent device and an external device through the reception unit. An image forming apparatus including an image forming unit that performs image formation on paper using consumables and an embedded computer,
A receiving means for receiving a user operation;
Instruction specifying means for specifying an instruction related to image processing from the operation received by the receiving means;
Providing means for providing a user with operation instruction correspondence information, which is information indicating a correspondence between an operation on the reception unit and an instruction regarding the image processing and the image forming process specified from the operation by the instruction specifying unit;
Image processing means for performing image processing based on the instruction specified by the instruction specifying means;
Image forming control means for controlling the image forming section to perform image formation based on the instruction specified by the instruction specifying means and the image data processed by the image processing means;
An acquisition means for acquiring information on disaster;
In response to the information about the disaster acquired by the acquisition unit, the normal operation instruction is provided so that consumables can be saved from the normal operation instruction correspondence information for the information provided by the providing unit and the use of the apparatus can be prolonged. Switching means for switching from response information to operation instruction response information including disaster response whose function has been changed or limited;
A computer program for causing an image forming apparatus to function.

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