JP6838318B2 - Image processing device and image processing method - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus and an image processing method.

Conventionally, there is an image processing device having a function of calling up a preset value related to image processing registered in advance with a shortcut. In Patent Document 1, it is determined whether or not an image can be formed according to image formation conditions (set values) such as a paper size for image formation, and if an image can be formed, it is displayed on a display unit. The key part (shortcut) corresponding to the image formation condition is displayed at the first density that is easy for the user to see, and when the image cannot be formed, the key part corresponding to the image formation condition is displayed at a density lower than the first density. An image forming apparatus to be used is described. According to this, when the paper of a desired size is insufficient, the user can grasp that the image formation using the corresponding key unit cannot be executed.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2003-150009

By the way, in addition to the paper size, there are a plurality of items related to image processing whose values are called by selecting a shortcut, such as the color, image quality, and magnification of the output product by image processing. Here, for example, as described above, if there is not enough paper of a size corresponding to the value called by selecting the shortcut, the image processing cannot be executed. The user can perform image processing using the shortcut by replenishing the paper of the insufficient size. However, instead of replenishing the paper of the insufficient size, the user associates the item other than the paper size with the shortcut if the image processing device is in a state where the paper of another size can be used. In some cases, it is desired to execute image formation with the specified values and change only the paper used for image formation at this time to a usable size. In this case, only the paper size item is set to another size that can be used by the image processing device, which is different from the size associated with the shortcut, and is set to an item other than the paper size item. The value is the same as the value set in association with the shortcut. If a shortcut is registered separately, the other shortcut can be selected and image processing can be executed. If the shortcut is not registered, it is necessary to make settings for a plurality of items including the paper size and then perform image processing, which may be annoying to the user.

The present application has been proposed in view of the above problems, and provides an image processing device and an image processing method capable of suppressing a decrease in convenience when executing image processing using a shortcut. The purpose.

The image processing device according to the present application includes a housing, a touch panel provided on the housing, an image processing unit provided inside the housing, a control unit, and a memory, and the control unit is from the touch panel. A process of storing information used for controlling the image processing unit in the memory, a process of displaying a shortcut on the touch panel, and a touch panel corresponding to each of a plurality of setting items related to the control of the image processing unit according to the received command. Of the multiple setting items set for the shortcut displayed in, the extraction process for extracting a specific setting item and the specific setting item extracted when a signal indicating the selection of the shortcut is detected while the shortcut is displayed. The process of displaying a screen on the touch panel that prompts you to select whether to use change information that is different from the information stored in the memory in response to the above, and the command from the touch panel is changed while the screen is being displayed. When it is an instruction that uses information, the control process that controls the image processing unit is executed by using the change information and the information stored in the memory corresponding to the setting items other than the specific setting items. It is characterized by.

In this way, the user can easily use information different from the information stored in the memory corresponding to the specific setting item for a specific setting item among the plurality of setting values set in the shortcut. The function can be executed.

According to the present application, it is possible to provide an image processing apparatus and an image processing method capable of suppressing a decrease in convenience when executing image processing by using a shortcut.

It is a perspective view which shows the appearance of the MFP. It is a block diagram which shows the electrical structure of the MFP. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the shortcut generation processing which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the shortcut execution processing which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure explaining the transition of the display screen of the touch panel which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the shortcut update process which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure explaining the transition of the display screen of the touch panel which concerns on the shortcut update process of 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the shortcut generation execution processing which concerns on 2nd Embodiment.

[First Embodiment]
<Configuration of MFP>
Hereinafter, one embodiment of the present application will be described with reference to the drawings. The MFP (Multi Function Peripheral) 10 is a multifunction device having a print function, a copy function, a scanner function, a fax transmission function, and a fax reception function. In the following description, the direction will be described with reference to the user who uses the MFP 10. That is, in FIG. 1, the front right side is "front", the back left side is "rear", the diagonal right side is "right", the diagonal left side is "left", the upper side is "upper", and the lower side is "lower". .. As shown in FIG. 1, the MFP 10 includes a housing 11, a document base cover 21, an ADF (Auto Document Feeder) 23, paper feed trays 17 and 18, a paper output tray 19, an operation panel 12, a USB receptacle 43, and the like. ing. The housing 11 has a substantially box shape, and a platen cover 21 for covering the platen (not shown) is installed on the upper portion. The platen cover 21 has a rotation shaft (not shown) at the rear and can rotate upward. The MFP 10 is provided with an image sensor (not shown) under the platen, and the image scanner is moved relative to the document supported by the platen to read the document.

The ADF 23 is installed on the upper left surface of the platen cover 21. The ADF 23 has an ADF cover 23a, an image scanner (not shown), and the like. The ADF cover 23a has a rotation shaft (not shown) at the right end portion and can rotate upward. The ADF cover 23a can be located at the closed position shown in FIG. 1 and the open position that rotates upward and is slightly inclined upward from the rotation axis. The ADF cover 23a in the open position supports the document on the upper surface. The ADF 23 takes in the document supported by the ADF cover 23a in the open position from the opening (not shown), moves the document relative to the image scanner, reads the document, and loads the document on the upper surface of the platen cover 21. Discharge to.

The operation panel 12 has a touch panel 41, a power button (not shown), and operation buttons such as a numeric keypad (not shown). The operation panel 12 and the USB receptacle 43 are installed on the front side of the upper surface of the housing 11. The USB receptacle 43 is a USB standard receptacle.

The paper feed trays 17 and 18 are vertically arranged and detachably installed on the lower side of the front surface of the housing 11. The output tray 19 is recessed inward with respect to the front surface of the housing 11. Further, a feeding unit (not shown), an image forming unit 37 (FIG. 2), and a discharging unit (not shown) are installed inside the housing 11. The sheet supported by the paper feed tray 17 or the paper feed tray 18 is conveyed to the image forming unit 37 by the feeding unit. The image forming unit 37 forms an image on the sheet. The discharge unit discharges the image-formed sheet to the paper discharge tray 19. It is assumed that the paper feed tray 17 has an A4 size sheet and the paper feed tray 17 has a B5 size sheet.

<Electrical configuration of MFP>
Next, the electrical configuration of the MFP 10 will be described with reference to FIG. In addition to the configuration shown in FIG. 1, the MFP 10 includes a CPU 32, a RAM 33, a ROM 34, an NVRAM (nonvolatile memory) 35, an image forming unit 37, an image reading unit 38, a FAX communication unit 39, a user interface 40, and a USB interface 42. It is equipped with a network interface 44, a document sensor, a first sheet sensor, a second sheet sensor, and the like. In FIG. 2, the document sensor, the first sheet sensor, and the second sheet sensor are collectively referred to as the sensor 50. The ROM 34 stores a program for executing a process such as a shortcut generation process and a shortcut execution process described later, and the CPU 32 connects with the bus 31 while storing the process result in the RAM 33 according to the program read from the ROM 34. Control each part. Shortcut information 351 (described later), tray information 352, and change count counter value 353 are stored in the NVRAM 35. The tray information 352 includes information that the size of the sheet in the paper feed tray 17 is A4 size and the size of the sheet in the paper feed tray 18 is B5 size. The change count counter value 353 is a value used in the shortcut update process described later.

The image forming unit 37 prints a color or monochrome image on the sheet by an electrophotographic method, for example, according to a printing job. The image forming unit 37 has four process cartridges, an exposure unit, a transfer roller, a fixing unit, and the like corresponding to four colors of black, cyan, magenta, and yellow (not shown). Each of the process cartridges has a photoconductor drum, a developing roller, a toner accommodating chamber, and the like (not shown). The exposed portion forms an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photoconductor drum. The developing roller supplies toner to the electrostatic latent image to form the toner image. The transfer roller transfers the toner image to the sheet. The fixing part heat-fixes the toner to the sheet.

The image scanning unit 38 reads the image of the document by the image scanner under the document table or the image scanner of the ADF 23 and generates the scanned data.

The FAX communication unit 39 transmits and receives FAX data to and from other FAX communication devices via a connected telephone line (not shown). The user interface 40 displays various setting screens, operating states of the devices, and the like on the touch panel 41. Further, a signal corresponding to the operation performed by the user on the touch panel 41 and the operation buttons is output to the CPU 32. The USB interface 42 reads and writes data in accordance with the USB standard to a USB-compatible storage medium connected to the USB receptacle 43. The USB-compatible storage medium is, for example, a USB memory or the like. The network interface 44 performs wireless LAN communication, for example, and communicates with a PC and a server (not shown) connected to the wireless LAN.

The document sensor detects whether or not there is a document in the opening of the ADF 23, for example, at predetermined time intervals, and when it detects that there is a document, it outputs a detection signal indicating that the document has been set to the CPU 32. The first sheet sensor and the second sheet sensor output detection signals to the CPU 32 according to the remaining number of sheets in the paper feed trays 17 and 18, respectively.

The print function is, for example, a function of printing a print job transmitted from a PC via the network interface 44, recorded data read from a USB memory or the like via the USB interface 42, or the like on a sheet by the image forming unit 37. .. The copy function is, for example, a function of printing the read data generated by the image reading unit 38 on a sheet by the image forming unit 37. The scan function is, for example, transmitting the read data generated by the image reading unit 38 to, for example, a PC or a server via the network interface 44, or writing to a USB memory or the like via the USB interface 42. It is a function. The FAX reception function includes printing the FAX reception data received via the FAX communication unit 39 on a sheet by the image forming unit 37, transmitting the FAX reception data to a PC via the network interface 44, a USB memory via the USB interface 42, and the like. It is a function to write to. The FAX transmission function is, for example, a fax of the read data generated by the image reading unit 38, the transmission data transmitted from a PC via the network interface 44, and the recorded data read from a USB memory or the like via the USB interface 42. This is a function of transmitting via the communication unit 39.

The shortcut information 351 is information in which values for items such as a "shortcut name", a "function", and a plurality of setting items are configured as a set of information. The CPU 32 creates shortcut information 351 in response to an operation performed by the user on the touch panel 41 and stores it in the NVRAM 35 (“In response to a command received from the touch panel, a plurality of setting items related to control of the image processing unit”. Corresponding to each, an example of "a process of storing information used for controlling the image processing unit in a memory" and an example of "shortcut registration process") are executed. The "shortcut name" is a name given by the user to identify the shortcut. The "function" includes the above-mentioned print function, copy function, scan function, fax transmission function, fax reception function, and the like. Specifically, the plurality of setting items include "size", "quality", "color", and the like, and the specific items differ depending on the value of "function". For example, if the value of "function" is (copy), in addition to "output size", "quality", and "color", "number of copies", "double-sided printing", and the like are set items. Further, for example, if the value of "function" is (scan), in addition to "reading size", "quality", and "color", "enlargement / reduction" and the like are set items. The change count counter value 353 is information in which the values for the "shortcut name" and "count value" items are configured as a set of information, and the "shortcut name" is associated with the "shortcut name" of the shortcut information 351. Has been done. When a set of information of the shortcut information 351 is created, the value of the "count value" of the corresponding change count counter value 353 is set to the initial value.

Here, it is assumed that the shortcut information 351 contains eight sets of information. The values of the "shortcut name" of the eight sets of information are (A4 original color copy) (100 sheets monochrome copy) (FAX to XX) (color original scan) (USB original scan) (double-sided copy high image quality) ( Printing from USB) (Received FAX printing).

The shortcuts for (A4 original color copy) are "Function" value (Copy), "Output size" value (A4), "Quality" value (Beautiful), "Color" value (Color), The value of "number of copies" is (1 sheet), and the value of "double-sided printing" is (yes).
The shortcut of (100 sheets monochrome copy) has "function" value (copy), "output size" value (B5), "quality" value (normal), "color" value (monochrome), The value of "number of copies" is (100 sheets), and the value of "double-sided printing" is (none).
The shortcut of (FAX to XX) has a "function" value (FAX transmission) and a "destination" value (XX).
The shortcuts for (color document scan) are "function" value (scan), "scan size" value (A4), "quality" value (clean), "color" value (color), and "color". The value of "enlarge / reduce" is (none), and the value of "output destination" is (server).
The shortcuts for (scanning documents to USB) are: "Function" value (scan), "Reading size" value (A4), "Quality" value (clean), "Color" value (color), The value of "enlargement / reduction" is (none), and the value of "output destination" is (USB memory).
(Double-sided copy high quality) shortcuts have "Function" value (Copy), "Output size" value (B5), "Quality" value (Beautiful), "Color" value (Color), The value of "number of copies" is (1 sheet), and the value of "double-sided printing" is (yes).
For the shortcut (print from USB), the value of "function" is (print) and the value of "read destination" is (USB memory).
As for the shortcut of (received FAX print), the value of "function" is (FAX reception) and the value of "output" is (print).

<Shortcut generation process>
Next, the shortcut generation process executed by the CPU 32 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 5. The CPU 32 starts the shortcut generation process when the power of the MFP 10 is turned on. First, the CPU 32 instructs the user interface 40 to display the main menu screen D1 shown in FIG. 5 on the touch panel 41. On the main menu screen D1, a "copy" button, a "scan" button, and a "fax" button are displayed in the area D11. In addition, the "shortcut" button D12 is displayed. By selecting a button, the user can execute the function corresponding to the selected button. When the user selects the "shortcut" button D12, a list of shortcuts included in the shortcut information 351 is displayed. Here, it is assumed that the user sets the original in the ADF 23 for copying without selecting the button.

The CPU 32 confirms whether or not the detection signal output from the document sensor has been received at predetermined time intervals, and when the detection signal from the document sensor is received (FIGS. 3, S1), the shortcut information 351 is displayed based on the detection signal. Among the included information, the shortcut to be displayed is determined (S3). Since the detection signal is output from the document sensor, the shortcut that requires the operation of the image reading unit 38 is determined. Specifically, (A4 original color copy) (100 sheets monochrome copy) (FAX to XX) (color original scan) (original scan to USB) (double-sided copy high image quality) operates the image reading unit 38. Determine that it is a required shortcut.

Next, the CPU 32 extracts a specific setting item from the plurality of setting items included in the shortcut information 351 (S5). Here, since the MFP 10 includes the first sheet sensor and the second sheet sensor, the "output size" is extracted as a specific setting item from the plurality of setting items. Next, the CPU 32 determines whether or not there is an "output size" sheet in order to determine whether or not the shortcut can be executed without error. First, it is determined whether or not there is an A4 size sheet in the paper feed tray 17 based on the detection signal of the first sheet sensor (S7). In response to the determination that there is an A4 size sheet (S7: YES), then it is determined whether or not there is a B5 size sheet in the paper feed tray 18 based on the detection signal of the second sheet sensor (S8). ). In response to the determination that there is a B5 size sheet (S8: YES), display information indicating that all the shortcuts determined in step S3 can be executed is stored in the RAM 33 (S12), and the process proceeds to step S9. On the other hand, depending on the judgment that there is no B5 size sheet (S8: NO), the shortcut with the "output size" value (A4) can be executed, and the "output size" value is (B5). The display information indicating that the shortcut cannot be executed is stored in the RAM 33 (S10), and the process proceeds to step S9.

On the other hand, in response to the determination that there is no A4 sheet (S7: NO), the CPU 32 then determines whether or not there is a B5 size sheet in the paper feed tray 18 based on the detection signal of the second sheet sensor. (S11). Depending on the determination that there is a B5 size sheet (S11: YES), the shortcut with the "output size" value (A4) cannot be executed, and the shortcut with the "output size" value (B5) is not executable. Stores the display information indicating that it is feasible in the RAM 33 (S13), and proceeds to step S9. On the other hand, in response to the determination that there is no B5 size sheet (S11: NO), display information indicating that all the shortcuts determined in step S3 cannot be executed is stored in the RAM 33 (S15), and step S9 Proceed to. In step S9, the CPU 32 generates UI (User Interface) screen data to be displayed on the touch panel 41 based on the display information stored in the RAM 33, transmits it to the user interface 40 (S9), and ends the process. .. When the user interface 40 receives the UI screen data, the user interface 40 displays a screen based on the UI screen data on the touch panel 41.

For example, when step S15 is executed, the CPU 32 generates UI screen data for displaying the shortcut selection screen D2 shown in FIG. Since the case of step S15 is the case where there is no A4 size sheet and B5 size sheet, the shortcut selection screen D2 is a shortcut in which the value of "function" is (copy) (A4 original color copy) (100). A so-called gray-out display is displayed, which is a gray display for clearly indicating that the buttons D21, D22, and D26 corresponding to each of (monochrome copy) (double-sided copy high image quality) cannot be selected. In addition, buttons D23, D24, and D25 corresponding to each of (FAX to XX) (color document scan) (document scan to USB) (double-sided copy high image quality), which are shortcuts that can be executed without a sheet, are selected. Displayed in black to indicate that it is possible. In addition, the "main menu" button D27 is displayed.

Further, for example, when step S13 is executed, the CPU 32 generates UI screen data for displaying the shortcut selection screen D3 shown in FIG. In the case of step S13, there is no A4 size sheet and there is a B5 size sheet. Therefore, on the shortcut selection screen D3, among the shortcuts whose "function" value is (copy), the "output size" is selected. A difference mark D311 is added to and displayed on the button D31 corresponding to the value (A4) (A4 original color copy). Here, the difference mark D311 uses the difference mark D311 as an exclamation mark. Also, among the shortcuts whose "function" value is (copy), the button D32, which is a button corresponding to (100 sheets monochrome copy) (double-sided copy high image quality) whose "output size" value is (B5), D36 is displayed in black. In addition, the buttons D33, D34, and D35 corresponding to each of the shortcuts (FAX to XX), (color document scan), and (USB document scan), which are shortcuts that can be executed without a sheet, are displayed in black. In addition, the "main menu" button D37 is displayed.

The difference mark D311 is a mark indicating that the target shortcut can be executed by changing a part of the value of the shortcut information 351 regarding the target shortcut. Here, if the value of "output size" of the target shortcut (A4 original color copy) is changed from (A4) to (B5), the shortcut can be executed, so that the CPU 32 can execute the (A4 original color copy). ), And the difference mark D311 is added to the button D31 to create UI screen data. As a result, the user can recognize that although the copy cannot be performed with the preset "output size", the copy can be performed by changing the value.

Next, the shortcut execution process executed by the CPU 32 when the user who wants to change the value of the "output size" and want to copy in the B5 size selects the button D31 will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5. ..

When the button D31, which is a button with a difference mark, is selected, the CPU 32 starts the shortcut execution process shown in FIG. First, the CPU 32 generates the modified UI screen data for displaying the modified UI screen D4 shown in FIG. 5 and outputs it to the user interface 40 (S23). When the user interface 40 receives the change UI screen data, the user interface 40 displays the change UI screen. On the change UI screen D4, the "Change and execute" button and the "Cancel" button are displayed in the area D41 along with the messages "Do you want to change the following items and execute?" And "Output paper size: A4 → B5". Will be done. Further, the "main menu" button D42 is displayed at the lower right of the change UI screen D4.

Next, the CPU 32 determines whether or not the "change and execute" button is selected (S25). When the "change and execute" button is selected within the predetermined time, the CPU 32 determines that the "change and execute" button is selected (S25: YES). When the CPU32 determines that the "change and execute" button is selected (S25: YES), the CPU 32 changes the value of the "output size" to B5, executes the shortcut (S27), and ends the process. To execute the shortcut, specifically, the CPU 32 sets the value of "output size" as (B5), and the values of other items are values related to (A4 original color copy) included in the shortcut information 351. This is to execute a process of causing the image forming unit 37 to form an image of the generated read data. By selecting the change UI screen D4, the user can change only the "output size" of the shortcut information 351 registered in advance and execute the copy. Copying can be executed more easily than resetting all of the multiple items related to copying.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the "change and execute" button is not selected (S25: NO), the CPU 32 instructs the user interface 40 to return to the shortcut selection screen D3 (FIG. 5) in order to make the user select the shortcut again. (S31), and the process is terminated.

Next, the shortcut update process will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. When the CPU 32 executes step S27 of the shortcut execution process, the CPU 32 starts the shortcut update process for the executed shortcut. First, the CPU 32 determines whether or not the number of times the shortcut is executed by changing the value is equal to or greater than a predetermined number based on the change number counter value 353 (S63). When it is determined that the value of the corresponding "count value" of the change count counter value 353 is equal to or greater than a predetermined number (S63: YES), UI screen data for displaying the updated UI screen D5 shown in FIG. 7 is generated, and the user Output to interface 40 (S65). When the user interface 40 receives the UI screen data, the user interface 40 displays the updated UI screen D5 on the touch panel 41. Update On the UI screen D5, do you want to update the "A4 original color copy" setting? And "Output paper size: A4 → B5", and a "Change" button and a "Do not change" button are displayed.

Next, it is determined whether or not the "change" button is selected (S67). When the "change" button is selected within a predetermined time, the CPU 32 determines that the "change" button is selected (S67: YES). When it is determined that the "change" button is selected (S67: YES), the changed contents are saved in the RAM 33 which is the internal memory (S69). Specifically, the RAM 33 stores information indicating that the value of the "output size" is (B5). Next, the value of the corresponding "count value" of the change count counter value 353 is reset (S71). Next, UI screen data for displaying the shortcut name change UI screen D6 shown in FIG. 7 is generated and output to the user interface 40 (S73). When the user interface 40 receives the UI screen data, the user interface 40 displays the shortcut name change UI screen D6 on the touch panel 41. Shortcut name change On the UI screen D6, do you want to update the shortcut name of "A4 original color copy"? Message, a text box D61, and a "change" button and a "do not change" button are displayed. FIG. 7 shows an example in which the value (A4 original color copy) of the “shortcut name” in the shortcut information 351 is input in advance in the text box D61 and displayed. The user who wants to change the value of the "shortcut name" operates the touch panel 41 or the like, inputs, for example, "B5 original color copy" in the text box D61, and then selects the "change" button.

Next, the CPU 32 determines whether or not the "change" button is selected (S75). When the "change" button is selected within a predetermined time, the CPU 32 determines that the "change" button is selected (S75: YES). When it is determined that the "change" button is selected (S75: YES), the value of the "shortcut name" related to the target shortcut is set as the value input to the text box D61, and the "output size" is determined by the information stored in step S69. The value of "" is set to (B5), the shortcut information 351 is updated (S77), and the process ends. On the other hand, when it is determined that the "change" button is not selected (S75: NO), the shortcut information 351 is updated with the value of "output size" related to the target shortcut as (B5), and the value of "shortcut name" is set. The process ends without updating (S79). The user can easily update the shortcut information 351 to the frequently used value for the shortcut that is frequently changed and used.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the value of the corresponding "count value" of the change count counter value 353 is not equal to or more than a predetermined number (S63: NO), the value of the corresponding "count value" of the change count counter value 353 is incremented (S81). ), Proceed to step S83. Further, if it is determined that the "change" button on the update UI screen D5 is not selected (S67: NO), the process proceeds to step S83. In step S83, the CPU 32 instructs the user interface 40 to display the main menu screen D1 (FIG. 5), and ends the process.

Here, the MFP 10 is an example of an image processing device, the image forming unit 37, the image reading unit 38, and the FAX communication unit 39 are examples of an image processing unit, and the NVRAM 35 is an example of a memory. Further, step S9 is an example of "processing of displaying a shortcut on the touch panel", steps S5, S7, S8, S10, S11, S12, S13, and S15 are examples of extraction processing, and step S23 is "extracted". Step S27 is an example of "a process of displaying on the touch panel a screen prompting the user to select whether or not to use change information which is information different from the information stored in the memory corresponding to a specific setting item". This is an example of control processing. The first sheet sensor and the second sheet sensor are examples of detectors, and the paper feed trays 17 and 18 are examples of sheet support portions.

According to the first embodiment described above, the following effects are obtained.
(1) The user changes the value of "output size", which is a specific setting item, among the shortcut items whose shortcut name is (A4 color copy), which is preset in the shortcut information 351. UI screen D4 It is possible to easily execute copying by changing from a (A4) size sheet without a sheet to a (B5) size sheet with a sheet.

(4) (5) In step S5, the CPU 32 is an item that can detect the state of the value for the item by using the first sheet sensor and the second sheet sensor among the items related to the shortcut, "output size". Is extracted as a specific setting item. Further, in steps S7, S8, and S11, it is determined whether or not the shortcut with the value of "output size" can be executed without error based on the detection signals of the first sheet sensor and the second sheet sensor. As a result, the CPU 32 can display the shortcut selection screen D3 by adding the difference mark D311 to the shortcut whose sheet size not in the paper feed trays 17 and 18 is the value of the shortcut information 351.

(8) The CPU 32 corresponds to (A4 original color copy) in which the value of "output size" is (A4) when the sheet of (A4) size, which is the value of "output size", is not in the paper feed tray 17. A difference mark D311 is added to the button D31 to be displayed. This makes it easier for the user to recognize that the value of a specific setting item can be changed to execute the shortcut.

(9) In the shortcut update process, the CPU 32 updates the value of the shortcut information 351 regarding the shortcut executed by changing a predetermined number or more. As a result, the user can easily update the value of the shortcut information 351 and use the updated shortcut for the shortcut whose value is frequently changed. (10) Further, in step S77 of the shortcut update process, the CPU 32 accepts the update of the value of the “shortcut name”. As a result, the user can easily update the value of the "shortcut name" to the optimum value.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, the shortcut generation execution process of the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. It is assumed that the MFP 10 of the second embodiment does not have the first sheet sensor and the second sheet sensor, and the document sensor also detects the size of the document. Specifically, the document sensor detects whether or not there is a document in the opening of the ADF 23, for example, at predetermined time intervals, and if there is a document, outputs a detection signal according to the A4 size or B5 size to the CPU 32. And. Since other configurations are the same as those of the MFP 10 of the first embodiment, the description thereof will be omitted.

When the power of the MFP 10 is turned on, the CPU 32 starts the shortcut generation execution process. First, the CPU 32 instructs the user interface 40 to display the main menu screen D1 shown in FIG. 5 on the touch panel 41. Here, it is assumed that the user sets the B5 size document in the ADF 23 for scanning without selecting the button on the touch panel 41.

The CPU 32 confirms whether or not the detection signal output from the document sensor has been received at predetermined time intervals, and when the detection signal from the document sensor is received (FIG. 8, S41), the shortcut information 351 is displayed based on the detection signal. Among the included information, a shortcut to be displayed is determined in the same manner as in step S3 (S43). Next, the CPU 32 extracts a specific setting item from the plurality of setting items included in the shortcut information 351 (S45). Here, since the MFP 10 includes a document sensor capable of detecting the size, "reading size" is extracted as a specific setting item from a plurality of setting items. Next, the CPU 32 determines whether or not the document size is B5 based on the detection signal (S47). When it is determined that the document size is B5 (S47: YES), display information indicating that a difference mark is added to the shortcut whose "reading size" value is (A4) is stored in the RAM 33 (S49), and the process proceeds to step S51. move on. On the other hand, when it is determined that the document size is not B5 (S47: NO), display information indicating that a difference mark is added to the shortcut whose "reading size" value is (B5) is stored in the RAM 33 (S50), and step S51. Proceed to.

In step S51, the CPU 32 generates UI screen data to be displayed on the touch panel 41 based on the display information stored in the RAM 33, and transmits the UI screen data to the user interface 40 (S51). When the user interface 40 receives the UI screen data, the user interface 40 displays the UI screen based on the UI screen data on the touch panel 41. On the UI screen, buttons and the like corresponding to each shortcut are displayed as in the shortcut selection screen D3. Further, based on the display information, a difference mark is added to the corresponding button and displayed. For example, when step S49 is executed, the "color document scan" button and "to USB" corresponding to the shortcuts of (color document scan) and (document scan to USB) whose "scan size" value is (A4) A difference mark is added to the "Original scan" button and displayed. Here, it is assumed that the user has selected the "color document scan" button.

When the "color document scan" button is selected, the CPU 32 generates change UI screen data and outputs it to the user interface 40 (S51). When the user interface 40 receives the change UI screen data, the user interface 40 displays the change UI screen. On the change UI screen, the "Change and execute" button and the "Execute without change" button are displayed along with the messages "Do you want to change the following items and execute?" And "Read size: A4 → B5". To. Since the function of the target shortcut is scan, even if the value of "read size" remains (A4), the CPU32 determines that the shortcut can be executed without error, so "execute without change". Display the button. Next, the CPU 32 determines whether or not the "change and execute" button is selected (S53). When the "change and execute" button is selected within the predetermined time, the CPU 32 determines that the "change and execute" button is selected (S53: YES). When the CPU 32 determines that the "change and execute" button is selected (S53: YES), the CPU 32 changes the value of the "read size" to B5, executes the shortcut (S55), and ends the process. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "change and execute" button is not selected (S53: NO), the shortcut is executed with the value of "reading size" kept at A4 (S57), and the process ends. In addition, changing the value of "reading size" to B5 and executing the shortcut is specifically described as the CPU32 setting the value of "reading size" as (B5) and the values of other items are included in the shortcut information 351. As a value related to (color document scanning), a process of transmitting the scanned data generated by the image scanning unit 38 to the network interface 44 is executed.

Here, the document sensor is an example of a detector, and the ADF 23 is an example of a document support unit. Further, step S51 is an example of "process of displaying a shortcut on the touch panel", steps S45, S47, S49 and S50 are examples of extraction processing, and step S51 is "corresponding to the extracted specific setting item". "Process to display a screen on the touch panel that prompts you to select whether to use the information stored in the memory or to use information different from the information stored in the memory corresponding to the extracted specific setting item" As an example, step S55 is an example of control processing.

According to the second embodiment described above, the following effects are obtained.
(1) The user changes the value of "reading size", which is a specific setting item, on the UI screen among the shortcut items whose shortcut name is (color document scan), which is preset in the shortcut information 351. You can change the size from (A4) to (B5) and easily execute the scan.

(2) (3) In step S45, the CPU 32 extracts "reading size", which is an item related to the shortcut, which can detect a value for the item by using the document sensor, as a specific setting item. .. Further, in steps S47, S49, and S50, it is determined from the detection signal of the document sensor whether or not the value of the "document size" and the size detected by the detection signal correspond to each other. As a result, when the value of the "reading size" is (B5) size, the CPU 32 displays the UI screen by adding a difference mark to the button corresponding to the shortcut whose "reading size" is (A4). , When the value of "reading size" is not (B5) size, a difference mark can be added to the button corresponding to the shortcut whose "reading size" is (B5) and displayed.
[Modification example]

Needless to say, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various improvements and changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.
In the first embodiment, since the first seat sensor and the second seat sensor are provided in step S5, it has been described that the "output size" is set as a specific setting item. The present invention is not limited to this, and a configuration may be configured in which which of the items of the shortcut information 351 is to be a specific setting item is stored in advance in, for example, NVRAM 35. In this way, the user can change the value of a specific setting item each time the shortcut is executed. In particular, in the case of an MFP not provided with a sensor, the user can confirm whether or not the value set in the shortcut information 351 matches the desired value for an item that cannot be detected by using the sensor. .. The configuration may be such that which of the specific setting items should be stored in advance at the time of shipment of the MFP, or the configuration may be set by the user. For example, the CPU 32 executes a setting acceptance process for displaying a setting screen for displaying buttons corresponding to a plurality of setting items on the touch panel 41 together with a message "Please select a specific setting item", and performs the setting acceptance process. Therefore, it is preferable to execute the storage process of storing the item corresponding to the button selected by the user in the NVRAM 35 as a specific setting item. In this way, the user can freely store, for example, the setting items to be confirmed when using the shortcut key as specific setting items.

Further, in the first embodiment, the remaining number of sheets at the time of copying has been described as an example of "the execution of image processing is restricted", but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in the case where the MFP is provided with a toner sensor that detects the remaining amount of toner in the toner storage chamber, when the remaining amount of toner is small and printing such as copying is restricted, for example, "number of copies" is used. It may be a specific setting item. Also, for example, when the remaining amount of toner other than black is large and the remaining amount of black toner is small, the difference is determined by determining either (color) or (monochrome) with "color" as a specific setting item. The mark may be displayed. Further, when the power to be supplied is limited, "image quality" may be set as a specific setting item. Further, when the USB memory is not installed, the "output destination" may be set as a specific setting item.

Further, although it has been explained that step S1 is a process based on the detection in the ADF 23, the process may be based on the detection in the platen, or may be configured to detect both.

Further, the configuration including the first sheet sensor and the second sheet sensor has been described in the first embodiment, and the configuration including the manuscript sensor has been described in the second embodiment, but the present invention is not limited thereto. When the MFP includes a plurality of sensors, all the detectable items may be extracted as specific setting items, or only specific items may be extracted.

Further, although it has been explained that the difference mark is displayed as an example of different display modes on the shortcut selection screen D3, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it may be displayed in a different color, or it may be displayed in a blinking manner.

Further, on the change UI screen D4, it was explained that the shortcut is executed when the "change and execute" button is selected. However, after the "change and execute" button is selected, for example, an operation button (for example,) The shortcut may be executed after the start button or the like is pressed.

Further, although it has been explained that the buttons D21, D22, and D26 are grayed out on the shortcut selection screen D2, the display mode is not limited. For example, a cross mark may be superimposed on the buttons D21, D22, and D26 to be displayed.

Further, although the case where the CPP 32 is provided has been described as an example, the present invention is not limited to this. It may be provided with a plurality of CPUs, or may be configured by a plurality of ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits). Further, it may be configured by any combination of the CPU and the ASIC.

Further, although the MFP 10 has been described as printing by the electrophotographic method, it can also be applied to other image processing devices that perform printing by, for example, an inkjet method. Further, although the MFP 10 has been described as a multifunction device having a printing function, a copying function, a scanner function and the like, the MFP 10 is not limited to this, and can be applied to an image processing device having at least one of the functions.

10 MFP
11 Housing 32 CPU
33 RAM
34 ROM
35 NVRAM
37 Image forming unit 38 Image reading unit 39 FAX communication unit 41 Touch panel 50 Sensor

Claims (9)

With the housing
The touch panel provided on the housing and
An image processing unit provided inside the housing and
Control unit and
With memory
With a detector ,
The control unit
In response to a command received from the touch panel, a process of storing information used for controlling the image processing unit in the memory in correspondence with a plurality of setting items related to the control of the image processing unit.
The process of displaying the shortcut on the touch panel and
Extraction processing for extracting a specific setting item from the plurality of setting items set in the shortcut displayed on the touch panel, and
Whether or not to use change information which is different from the information stored in the memory corresponding to the extracted specific setting item when a signal indicating the selection of the shortcut is detected during the display of the shortcut. A process of displaying a screen prompting the user to select on the touch panel, and
When the command from the touch panel is a command that uses the change information during the display of the screen, the change information and the information stored in the memory corresponding to the setting items other than the specific setting items. The control process for controlling the image processing unit and the control process for controlling the image processing unit are executed by using and.
In the extraction process, the control unit
Based on the signal output by the detector according to the characteristics of the resource used by the image processing unit for image processing, the information stored in the memory corresponding to the setting items related to the resource is the information of the resource. An image processing device characterized in that the setting item is set to the specific setting item when the feature is not supported. Equipped with a document support
The detector outputs a signal the document supporting portion corresponding to the size of the document supporting,
In the extraction process, the control unit
When the information stored in the memory corresponding to the setting item related to the size of the document does not correspond to the size of the document, the setting item is set as the specific setting item. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1. With the housing
The touch panel provided on the housing and
An image processing unit provided inside the housing and
Control unit and
Memory and
With a detector,
The control unit
In response to a command received from the touch panel, a process of storing information used for controlling the image processing unit in the memory in correspondence with a plurality of setting items related to the control of the image processing unit.
The process of displaying the shortcut on the touch panel and
Extraction processing for extracting a specific setting item from the plurality of setting items set in the shortcut displayed on the touch panel, and
Whether or not to use change information which is different from the information stored in the memory corresponding to the extracted specific setting item when a signal indicating the selection of the shortcut is detected during the display of the shortcut. A process of displaying a screen prompting the user to select on the touch panel, and
When the command from the touch panel is a command that uses the change information during the display of the screen, the change information and the information stored in the memory corresponding to the setting items other than the specific setting items. The control process for controlling the image processing unit and the control process for controlling the image processing unit are executed by using and.
In the extraction process, the control unit
Based on the signal output by the detector according to the state of the resource used by the image processing unit for image processing, the state of the resource is stored in the memory corresponding to the setting item related to the resource. An image processing apparatus characterized in that, when it is determined that the execution of the image processing based on the information is restricted, the setting item is set as the specific setting item. Equipped with a seat support
The detector outputs a signal corresponding to the remaining number of sheets supported by the sheet supporting portion,
In the extraction process, the control unit
When it is determined that the execution of the image processing is restricted by the remaining number of sheets, the size of the sheet sets the setting item stored in the memory as the corresponding information with the specific setting item. The image processing apparatus according to claim 3 , wherein the image processing apparatus is used. After executing the extraction process, the control unit
The first to fourth aspects of claim 1 to 4, wherein the shortcut in which the specific setting item is set is displayed on the touch panel in a display mode different from that of the shortcut in which the specific setting item is not set. The image processing apparatus according to any one. The control unit
For the shortcut in which the specific setting item is set in which the control process is executed a predetermined number of times or more, the information stored in the memory corresponding to the specific setting item is updated to the change information. The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the processing is executed. The control unit
Execute the shortcut registration process to register the shortcut together with the shortcut name,
The image processing apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein in the update process, the shortcut name of the shortcut to be updated is changed. An image processing method in an image processing device including a housing, a touch panel provided in the housing, an image processing unit provided inside the housing, a memory, and a detector.
A step of storing information used for controlling the image processing unit in the memory according to a plurality of setting items related to the control of the image processing unit in response to a command received from the touch panel.
The step of displaying the shortcut on the touch panel and
An extraction step for extracting a specific setting item from the plurality of setting items set in the shortcut displayed on the touch panel, and
Whether or not to use change information which is different from the information stored in the memory corresponding to the extracted specific setting item when a signal indicating the selection of the shortcut is detected during the display of the shortcut. A step of displaying a screen prompting the user to select on the touch panel, and
When the command from the touch panel is a command that uses the change information during the display of the screen, the change information and the information stored in the memory corresponding to the setting items other than the specific setting items. with bets, have a, and a control step of controlling the image processing unit,
In the extraction step, the image processing unit stores the resources in the memory in accordance with the setting items related to the resources based on the signal output by the detector according to the characteristics of the resources used for the image processing. An image processing method comprising setting the setting item as the specific setting item when the information does not correspond to the feature of the resource. An image processing method in an image processing device including a housing, a touch panel provided in the housing, an image processing unit provided inside the housing, a memory, and a detector.
A step of storing information used for controlling the image processing unit in the memory according to a plurality of setting items related to the control of the image processing unit in response to a command received from the touch panel.
The step of displaying the shortcut on the touch panel and
An extraction step for extracting a specific setting item from the plurality of setting items set in the shortcut displayed on the touch panel, and
Whether or not to use change information which is different from the information stored in the memory corresponding to the extracted specific setting item when a signal indicating the selection of the shortcut is detected during the display of the shortcut. A step of displaying a screen prompting the user to select on the touch panel, and
When the command from the touch panel is a command that uses the change information during the display of the screen, the change information and the information stored in the memory corresponding to the setting items other than the specific setting items. A control step for controlling the image processing unit, and a control step for controlling the image processing unit are provided.
In the extraction step, based on the signal output by the detector according to the state of the resource used by the image processing unit for image processing, the memory in the state of the resource corresponds to the setting item related to the resource. An image processing method characterized in that, when it is determined that the execution of the image processing with the information stored in is restricted, the setting item is set as the specific setting item.

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