JP7473342B2 - Information processing device and information processing system - Google Patents

Description

This invention relates to an information processing device and an information processing system, and in particular to an information processing device and an information processing system that provide a user with a specific service and an associated service associated with the specific service.

An example of this type of background technology is disclosed in Patent Document 1. The image forming device of the background technology is capable of providing a receipt issuing service, and receives an instruction as to whether or not to print a receipt before the user inputs the setting conditions related to the service, i.e., before the image forming device is caused to provide the function.

JP 2009-239465 A

However, in the image forming device of the background art, the user is only prompted to select once whether or not to print a receipt before the image forming device provides the function, so the user may make a wrong selection or forget to select, which may result in the user's intention not being met. In other words, there are cases where the accompanying service cannot be provided in accordance with the user's intention.

Therefore, the main object of this invention is to provide a novel information processing device and information processing system.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an information processing device and an information processing system that can reliably recognize associated services and provide associated services in accordance with the user's intentions.

A first invention is an information processing device that provides a user with a specified service and an associated service associated with the specified service, the information processing device having a display and a display control means for switching between a plurality of operation screens for executing the specified service and displaying them on the display, two or more of the plurality of operation screens include a notification section for providing notification regarding the associated service, the associated service includes a first service for printing an associated printed matter associated with the specified service, the notification section includes a selection section for allowing the user to select a print setting regarding whether to print the associated printed matter, and the associated printed matter includes a receipt related to the specified service, the selection section includes a receipt printing setting section for allowing the user to select a print setting regarding whether to print the receipt, one of the plurality of operation screens is a final setting screen that determines the content of the specified service, and the final setting screen displays a start key for accepting a start operation of a job related to the specified service under operating conditions set in the operation screen up to that point, and after the start key is operated, the receipt printing setting section is displayed on at least a completion notification screen among the plurality of operation screens that notifies the user that the job has been completed.

A second invention is an information processing apparatus according to the first invention, wherein when switching to a next operation screen, the print settings are maintained in a state selected on a previous operation screen.

A third invention is an information processing device according to the first or second invention , wherein the receipt print setting section is displayed on two or more operation screens subsequent to the final setting screen among the plurality of operation screens.

A fourth invention is an information processing device according to the third invention , wherein the receipt print setting section is displayed on two or more operation screens up to the completion notification screen among the plurality of operation screens.

A fifth invention is an information processing device dependent on any of the first to fourth inventions, wherein the associated printed matter includes a result table showing the contents of a specified service, and the selection unit includes a result table selection unit for allowing a user to select a print setting regarding whether or not to print the result table, and the result table selection unit is displayed on two or more operation screens among a plurality of operation screens.

A sixth invention is an information processing device dependent on any of the first to fifth inventions, wherein the ancillary service includes a second service that prompts collection of an item used in the specified service or a deliverable of the specified service, and the notification unit includes a warning unit for preventing the item or deliverable from being forgotten, and the warning unit is displayed on two or more operation screens among the multiple operation screens.

A seventh invention is an information processing device according to the sixth invention, wherein the warning unit is displayed on one of the plurality of operation screens that is displayed after use of the article is finished.

An eighth invention is an information processing device dependent on the sixth or seventh invention, wherein one of the plurality of operation screens is a notification screen that is displayed after a specified service is completed, and the warning section is displayed on at least the notification screen.

A ninth invention is an information processing system comprising an information processing device of any of the first to eighth inventions and an image forming device capable of communicating with the information processing device, and a specified service is executed by the information processing device and the image forming device working together.

This invention allows users to be sure that associated services are recognized, and that associated services can be provided in line with their intentions.

The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the embodiments with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the external configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the information processing apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is an illustrative view showing an example of a home screen. FIG. 5 is an illustrative view showing an example of a color setting screen. FIG. 6 is an illustrative view showing an example of the paper setting screen. FIG. 7 is an illustrative view showing an example of the guide screen. FIG. 8 is an illustrative view showing one example of a preview screen. FIG. 9 is an illustrative view showing one example of a final setting screen. FIG. 10 is an illustrative view showing one example of the execution notification screen. FIG. 11 is an illustrative view showing an example of the completion notification screen. FIG. 12 is an illustrative view showing an example of the receipt print notification screen. FIG. 13 is an illustrative view showing an example of a left-behind notification screen. FIG. 14 is an illustrative view showing an example of a memory map of the RAM of the information processing device shown in FIG. FIG. 15 is an illustrative view showing an example of a memory map of the RAM of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of information processing by the CPU shown in FIG. FIG. 17 is an illustrative view showing an example of a destination setting screen in the second embodiment. FIG. 18 is an illustrative view showing one example of a result table print setting screen in the second embodiment.

[First embodiment]
1 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of an information processing system 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1, information processing system 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes an information processing device 10 and an image forming device 70.

The information processing device 10 is a multimedia kiosk (MMK) terminal located in shops such as supermarkets, restaurants, or convenience stores, as well as in public facilities such as train stations, bus terminals, airports, government offices, or libraries. This information processing device 10 provides users with various information or predetermined services (functions) depending on the location where it is located. In addition, as will be described in detail later, the information processing device 10 can also cooperate with an image forming device 70 to provide users with predetermined services (main services) such as copying, printing, scanning, and faxing.

In this specification, the surface facing the user's standing position, i.e., the surface on which the display 14 described below is provided, is defined as the front surface (front), and the front-to-rear direction (depth direction) of the information processing device 10 and its components are defined, and the left-to-right direction (horizontal direction) of the information processing device 10 and its components are defined based on the state in which the information processing device 10 is viewed by the user. The same applies to the image forming device 70.

The information processing device 10 has a device body 28 including a display 14 with a touch panel 12, a storage medium connection unit 16, a paper printer 18, a code reading unit 20, a short-range communication unit 22, a currency processing unit 24, and a photo printer 26.

The display 14 with the touch panel 12 is disposed at the top end of the information processing device 10 (device body 28). The touch panel 12 is a general-purpose touch panel, and any type of touch panel can be used, such as a capacitive type, an electromagnetic induction type, a resistive film type, or an infrared type. In this first embodiment, a capacitive type touch panel is used as the touch panel 12, and the touch panel 12 is provided on the display surface of the display 14. However, a touch panel display in which the touch panel 12 and the display 14 are integrally formed may also be used. Furthermore, the display 14 may be, for example, an LCD or an EL (Electro-Luminescence) display.

Display 14 with touch panel 12 displays software keys (operation keys) and the like for accepting user operations. Note that software keys refer to keys (icons) reproduced by software on the display surface of display 14 with touch panel 12, for example.

The storage medium connection unit 16 includes mounting units (e.g., a drive and a memory slot) for mounting various storage media. The various storage media include optical discs (e.g., CD-R, DVD-R, BD-R, etc.) and flash memory (e.g., USB memory, SD memory card, memory stick, etc.). However, optical discs are mounted in the drive. Also, flash memory is mounted in the memory slot.

The ticket printer 18 (third image forming unit) is, for example, a thermal printer or a dot-impact printer, and issues tickets on which images such as receipts, invoices, journals, or coupons are printed. Specifically, the ticket printer 18 prints various characters, images, code patterns (such as barcodes), etc. on rolled paper, and ejects the printed tickets from the paper ejection unit 18a.

The code reading unit 20 includes, for example, a laser scanner or a camera, and can read codes attached to products, cards, receipts, etc., or codes displayed on the screen of a user terminal (mobile terminal). Codes that can be read by the code reading unit 20 include barcodes (one-dimensional barcodes) and two-dimensional codes (for example, QR Code (registered trademark), micro QR code, DataMATRIX, MaxiCODE, and VeriCODE, etc.).

The short-range communication unit 22 performs wireless, non-contact data communication with a communication target such as an IC card (such as an ID card, membership card, or employee ID card) or a user terminal, for example, in accordance with a communication standard such as ISO/IEC 18092 (so-called NFC (Near Field Communication)). The communication distance of the short-range communication unit 22 is approximately several centimeters to several meters. The short-range communication unit 22 transmits a signal (read command) to the communication target instructing the communication target to read data stored in the communication target. In response to the read command, the communication target transmits the desired data to the short-range communication unit 22. The short-range communication unit 22 also transmits a signal (write command) instructing the communication target to write together with data to be written (write data). The communication target writes (stores) the received write data in the memory unit of the communication target in accordance with the write command.

The currency processing unit 24 includes a currency insertion unit 24a and a coin return port 24b. The currency insertion unit 24a includes a coin insertion port, a bill insertion port, a change return lever, etc., and is arranged below the short-range communication unit 22. Coins inserted through the coin insertion port and bills inserted through the bill insertion port are classified by type and stored in a specified currency storage unit (not shown). The currency storage unit includes a coin storage unit and a bill storage unit. When a coin or bill is inserted, the inserted amount is calculated according to the type and number of coins stored in the coin storage unit and the type and number of bills stored in the bill storage unit. When a specified service or the like is executed in the information processing device 10, the cost according to the content of the service is subtracted from the inserted amount, and the remaining amount of the inserted amount is calculated. In addition, when the change return lever is operated, the coin or bill is returned according to the remaining amount of the inserted amount. However, coins are returned through the coin return port 24b located below the coin insertion section 24a, and banknotes are returned through the banknote insertion port.

The photo printer 26 (second image forming unit) is, for example, a dye-sublimation printer or inkjet printer, and prints images on photo paper (photo paper). Photos printed by the photo printer 26 are discharged to the discharge unit 26a. However, the image data used to form the image on the paper may be image data stored in a storage medium connected to the storage medium connection unit 16, or image data sent from an external computer. The size of the photos printed by the photo printer 26 is, for example, L size or 2L size.

Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the information processing device 10 shown in Figure 1. Referring to Figure 2, the information processing device 10 includes a CPU 32. Connected to the CPU 32 via a bus 60 are a RAM 34, a ROM 36, a touch panel control circuit 38, a display control circuit 40, a storage medium connection unit 16, a ticket printer 18, a code reading unit 20, a short-range communication unit 22, a currency processing unit 24, a photo printer 26, and a communication circuit 44. In addition, the touch panel 12 is connected to the touch panel control circuit 38, and the display 14 is connected to the display control circuit 40.

The CPU 32 is responsible for the overall control of the information processing device 10. The RAM 34 is used as a work area and a buffer area for the CPU 32. The ROM 36 stores the startup program of the information processing device 10 and default values for various information.

The touch panel control circuit 38 applies the necessary voltages and the like to the touch panel 12, detects touch operations (touch inputs) within the effective touch range of the touch panel 12, and outputs touch coordinate data indicating the position of the touch input to the CPU 32.

The display control circuit 40 includes a GPU and a VRAM, and under the direction of the CPU 32, the GPU uses the image generation data stored in the RAM 34 to generate display image data in the VRAM for displaying various screens on the display 14, and outputs the generated display image data to the display 14.

The communication circuit 44 is a communication circuit for connecting to a network such as the Internet. This communication circuit 44 is a wired communication circuit or a wireless communication circuit, and communicates with an external computer (external terminal) such as a server via the network in accordance with instructions from the CPU 32. However, the communication circuit 44 can also directly communicate with the image forming device 70 and user terminals, etc., via a wired or wireless connection (for example, an infrared method, a WiFi (registered trademark) method, or a Bluetooth (registered trademark) method) without going through a network.

Note that the electrical configuration of the information processing device 10 shown in FIG. 2 is merely an example and is not limited to this.

Returning to FIG. 1, the image forming device 70 is a multifunction peripheral (MFP) that has functions such as a copy function, a printer function, a scanner function, and a facsimile function.

The image forming device 70 includes a device body 80 including an image reading unit 72, an image forming unit 74, a paper feeder 76, and a paper output tray 78. However, the image forming device 70 is installed near the information processing device 10. For example, the image forming device 70 is installed adjacent to the right side of the information processing device 10.

The image reading unit 72 has a document placement platform made of a transparent material and is built into the device body 80. A document pressing cover 72a is attached above the document placement platform via a hinge or the like so that it can be opened and closed freely.

The image reading unit 72 also includes a light source, multiple mirrors, an imaging lens, and a line sensor. The image reading unit 72 exposes the surface of the document to the light source, and guides the light reflected from the document surface to the imaging lens using multiple mirrors. The imaging lens then focuses the reflected light on the light receiving element of the line sensor. The line sensor detects the luminance or chromaticity of the reflected light focused on the light receiving element, and generates read image data based on the image of the document surface. A CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CIS (Contact Image Sensor) is used as the line sensor.

The image forming unit 74 (first image forming unit) is built into the device main body 80 and is provided below the image reading unit 72. This image forming unit 74 includes a photosensitive drum, a charging device, an exposure device, a developing device, a transfer device, and a fixing device. The image forming unit 74 forms an image on a recording medium (normal paper) conveyed from a paper feeder 76 or the like by electrophotography, and discharges the paper on which the image has been formed to a paper discharge tray 78 provided between the image reading unit 72 and the image forming unit 74. However, the image data (print image data) used to form an image on the paper may be the read image data read by the image reading unit 72, image data sent from the information processing device 10, or image data sent from an external computer (server, etc.).

Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the image forming device 70 shown in Figure 1. Referring to Figure 3, the image forming device 70 includes a CPU 82. The CPU 82 is connected to a RAM 84, a HDD 86, an image reading unit 72, an image forming unit 74, and a communication circuit 92 via a bus 90.

The CPU 82 is responsible for the overall control of the image forming device 70. The RAM 84 is used as a work area and a buffer area for the CPU 82.

The HDD 86 is the main storage device of the image forming device 70, and appropriately stores the control program for the CPU 82 to control the operation of each part of the image forming device 70, display image data for various screens, and the like. However, instead of the HDD 86, or together with the HDD 86, other non-volatile memories such as SSDs, flash memories, and EEPROMs may be used.

The communication circuit 92 is a communication circuit for connecting to a network such as the Internet. This communication circuit 92 is a wired communication circuit or a wireless communication circuit, and communicates with an external computer such as a server via the network in accordance with instructions from the CPU 82. However, the communication circuit 92 can also communicate directly with the information processing device 10 via a wired or wireless connection without going through a network.

Note that the electrical configuration of the image forming device 70 shown in FIG. 3 is merely an example and is not limited to this.

In the information processing system 100 configured as above, the information processing device 10 accepts touch input (user operation) to the touch panel 12 via a GUI displayed on the display 14. Specifically, the information processing device 10 displays multiple operation screens for setting the operating conditions of the information processing system 100 on the display 14 to accept user operation. In the information processing system 100 (information processing device 10 and image forming device 70), the main service is executed according to the contents set on each operation screen.

In addition, this information processing system 100 can provide users with ancillary services that accompany the main service. Examples of such ancillary services include a receipt issuing service, a fax transmission result printing service, and a lost item notification service.

In a conventional information processing system, for example, in a receipt issuing service, an instruction as to whether or not to print a receipt is accepted before the user inputs the setting conditions for the main service, i.e., before the image forming device provides the function.

However, in conventional information processing systems, the user is only asked once whether or not to print a receipt, which can lead to the user making a wrong selection or forgetting to make a selection, resulting in the accompanying service not being able to be performed as intended by the user.

Therefore, in this first embodiment, two or more of the multiple operation screens displayed on the display 14 of the information processing device 10 include a notification section for notifying users about associated services.

A specific example of the operation of the information processing system 100 will be described below with reference to Figs. 4 to 13. When the main power of the information processing device 10 and the image forming device 70 is turned on and they are in a standby state in which each function can be executed, a home screen 110 as shown in Fig. 4 is displayed on the display 14 of the information processing device 10. The home screen 110 is an operation screen for selecting a main service. This home screen 110 displays a number of keys 112 for selecting a main service provided by the information processing system 100.

Each of the multiple keys 112 is an image surrounded by a roughly rectangular frame, and functions as a software key. Each of the multiple keys 112 is assigned a main service such as "copy," "print from smartphone," "print from recording media," "fax," "scan," "photo/document print," "network print," and "government service."

The copy service includes a service for copying (duplicating) an image of a document or other original onto normal paper (normal copy service), and a service for copying a photo onto photo paper (photo copy service). The "print from smartphone" service is a print service that uses image data stored in a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, the "print from recording medium" service is a print service that uses image data stored in a recording medium, and the "network print" service is a print service that uses image data sent from an external computer (a server for network print services). The "administrative service" is a print service that prints administrative certificates. In each print service, the image forming unit that will print can be selected (designated) from among multiple image forming units (for example, the image forming unit 74 (first image forming unit) and the photo printer 26 (second image forming unit)). For example, a selection screen including a selection key for selecting the image forming unit that will print is displayed on the display 14 of the information processing device 10, that is, options for selecting the image forming unit that will print from among multiple image forming units are presented to the user, and printing from the selected image forming unit is possible.

When key 112 is touched (operated) on home screen 110, i.e., when a main service is selected, multiple operation screens for setting the operating conditions of the selected main service are displayed in sequence on display 14. The following describes an example in which copy service is selected.

When the key 112 to which the copy service is assigned on the home screen 110 is operated (the copy service is selected), the display 14 sequentially displays a number of operation screens (copy setting screens) for setting the operating conditions (copy conditions) of the copy service. For example, the display 14 displays a color setting screen 120 as shown in FIG. 5. This color setting screen 120 is one of a number of operation screens for setting the operating conditions of the copy service, and is, for example, the first screen to be displayed.

The color setting screen 120 is a screen for setting the color mode (color conditions) in the copy service, and includes an end key 120a, a transition key 120b, an operation guide section 122, and a setting section 124.

The end key 120a is an operation key for ending the provision of a service. When the end key 120a is operated, the contents that have been set up until that point are reset, and the home screen 110 is displayed on the display 14. The same applies to the end keys 130a, 140a, 150a, 160a, 170a, 200a, 210a, and 220a described below.

Transition key 120b is an operation key for proceeding to the next operation screen (transitioning between screens). When transition key 120b is operated, the operation screen following the operation screen that was displayed up until that point is displayed on display 14. The same applies to transition keys 130b, 140b, 150b, 160b, 180b, and 210b, which will be described later. However, depending on the type of operation screen, it may not be possible to proceed to the next operation screen unless the operating conditions of the service are set (selected). In this case, transition key 120b is disabled until the operating conditions of the service are set. Therefore, transition key 120b cannot be operated unless the operating conditions of the service are set.

The operation guide unit 122 includes a message (notification text) and an index image. The message is provided to provide operation guidance to the user. The index image is an image for drawing the user's attention to the operation guide unit 122, and is displayed adjacent to the message. In addition, at least a part of the index image is colored a predetermined color different from the color of the parts other than the operation guide unit 122 and the setting unit 124. The same applies to the operation guide units 132, 142, 152, 162, 172, 192, 212, and 222 described below.

On this color setting screen 120, a message is displayed in the operation guide section 122 to encourage the user to select a color mode for the copy service, such as "Please select a color type and press 'Next.'"

The setting section 124 is provided for setting color conditions (color/black and white) in the copy service, and includes multiple setting keys to which different color conditions (color/black and white) are assigned. The color conditions in the copy service are set by operating any of these setting keys.

When the color conditions for the copy service are set on the color setting screen 120, the transition key 120b is enabled. When the enabled transition key 120b is operated, the paper setting screen 130, which is the next operation screen after the color setting screen 120, is displayed on the display 14, as shown in FIG. 6.

The paper setting screen 130 is a screen for setting the size of copy paper (paper size), and includes an end key 130a, a transition key 130b, an operation guide section 132, and a setting section 134. On the paper setting screen 130, a message to encourage the user to set the paper size is displayed in the operation guide section 132, such as "Please select a paper size and press 'Next'."

The setting section 134 is provided for setting the paper size, and includes multiple setting keys to which different paper sizes such as B5, A4, B4, and A3 are assigned. The paper size is set by operating any of these setting keys.

When the paper size is set on the paper setting screen 130, the transition key 130b is enabled. When the enabled transition key 130b is operated, the guide screen 140, which is the next operation screen after the paper setting screen 130, is displayed on the display 14, as shown in FIG. 7.

The guide screen 140 is a screen for guiding the user on how to set (place) the document, and includes an end key 140a, a transition key 140b, an operation guide section 142, and a guide section 144.

On the guide screen 140, a message such as "Please place the document landscape and press 'Document Scan'" is displayed in the operation guide section 142 to encourage the user to set the document appropriately and to start scanning the document. In addition, the guide section 144 displays a guide image (a still image or a moving image) to guide the user to place the document on the document tray in the appropriate position and orientation.

As described above, the guide screen 140 is not a screen for setting the operating conditions of the service. For this reason, the transition key 140b is enabled from the beginning on the guide screen 140. However, in addition to the function of proceeding to the next operation screen, the transition key 130b is assigned the function of starting (executing) the reading of a document. In other words, the transition key 140b is also a read start key for accepting an operation to start reading a document. Therefore, when the transition key 140b is operated, reading of a document is started, a read image read by the image reading unit 72 is generated, and the preview screen 150, which is the next operation screen after the guide screen 140, is displayed on the display 14 as shown in FIG. 8.

The preview screen 150 is a screen for checking the scanned image based on the image on the surface of the document (or a printed image obtained by image processing the scanned image), and includes an end key 150a, a transition key 150b, an operation guide section 152, a preview image display section 154, and a reload key 156.

On the preview screen 150, a message prompting confirmation of the read image data, such as "If the scanned image is correct, please press 'Next'", is displayed in the operation guide section 152. In addition, an image (preview image) corresponding to the scanned image or printed image is displayed in the preview image display section 154. The reload key 156 is assigned the function of re-reading the original document, and when the reload key 156 is operated, reading of the original document is started and new image data read by the image reading section 72 is generated. At this time, the preview image displayed in the preview image display section 154 is switched (updated) to an image corresponding to the most recent scanned image.

As described above, the preview screen 150 is not a screen for setting the operating conditions of the service. For this reason, the transition key 150b is enabled from the beginning on the preview screen 150. When the transition key 150b is operated, the final setting screen 160, which is the next operation screen after the preview screen 150, is displayed on the display 14, as shown in FIG. 9.

The final settings screen 160 is a screen for finally determining the operating conditions of the main service and for confirming the operating conditions set in the previous operation screens, and includes an end key 160a, a transition key 160b, an operation guide section 162, a settings section 164, and a print settings section (receipt print settings section) 166.

On the final setting screen 160, a message such as "Please check the contents and if OK, press 'Start'" is displayed in the operation guide section 162 to prompt the user to confirm the contents of the operating conditions. In addition, the setting section 164 displays setting keys for setting the number of copies to be printed and the payment method.

The print setting unit 166 is provided to allow the user to select a setting (receipt print setting) for whether or not to print (output) a receipt in a receipt issuing service, which is an example of an associated service. In other words, the print setting unit 166 is an example of a selection unit that allows the user to select a print setting for whether or not to print associated printed materials, and the print setting unit 166 is also an example of a notification unit that issues notifications regarding the associated service.

The print setting section 166 includes a first setting key 166a to which a setting to not print receipts is assigned, and a second setting key 166b to which a setting to print receipts is assigned. The receipt print setting is determined (selected) by operating either the first setting key 166a or the second setting key 166b. However, the receipt print setting is set to not print receipts in the initial setting (default). That is, in the initial setting, the first setting key 166a to which the setting to not print receipts is assigned is selected. In addition, when switching to the next operation screen, the receipt print setting is maintained in the state selected in the previous operation screen. Therefore, if the second setting key 166b is selected in the previous operation screen, the second setting key 166b is selected when switching to the next operation screen, and if the first setting key 166a is selected in the previous operation screen, the first setting key 166a is selected when switching to the next operation screen. These things related to the print setting unit 166 also apply to the print setting units 176 and 186 described below.

On the final setting screen 160, when the operating conditions set in the setting section 164 are set, that is, when all the operating conditions of the main service are set, the transition key 160b is enabled. However, in addition to the function of proceeding to the next operation screen, the transition key 160b is assigned the function of starting (executing) a job related to the main service (a copy job in the case of a copy service) with the set operating conditions. In other words, the transition key 160b is also a start key for accepting an operation to start a copy job. Therefore, when the transition key 160b is operated, the copy job is started, and the execution notification screen 170, which is the next operation screen after the final setting screen 160, is displayed on the display 14 as shown in FIG. 10.

The execution notification screen 170 is a screen for notifying the user that a job is being executed, and includes an end key 170a, a guide section 172, a print setting section 176, and a forgotten item warning section 178. On the execution notification screen 170, a message indicating that a copy job is being executed, such as "Copying. Please wait a moment," is displayed in the guide section 172.

The left-behind warning section 178 is provided to warn the user not to forget to pick up (prompt the user to collect) items including the user's belongings (e.g., a manuscript) used in the main service and output items output in relation to the main service (hereinafter referred to as "attention items"). For example, when the execution notification screen 170 is displayed, that is, when a copy job is already being executed, the use of the manuscript has ended. For this reason, the left-behind warning section 178 displays a warning image (still image or moving image) to warn the user not to forget to pick up the manuscript. The warning image also includes an external view of the information processing device 10 and the image forming device 70, and the part corresponding to the location of the attention item in the external view is highlighted. For example, if the item is a manuscript, the part corresponding to the manuscript placement table is highlighted. The warning image also displays a message to warn not to forget to pick up the attention item, such as "Be careful not to forget to pick up the manuscript."

When the job is completed, the execution notification screen 170 automatically advances to the next operation screen. For example, when a copy job is completed, the display 14 displays the completion notification screen 180, which is the next operation screen after the execution notification screen 170, as shown in FIG. 11.

The completion notification screen 180 is a screen for notifying the user that the job has been completed, and includes an end key 180a, a guide section 182, a continue key 184, and a print settings section 186.

On the completion notification screen 180, a message is displayed in the operation guide section 182 to inform the user that the copy job has been completed, such as "Copying has been completed." Also, on the completion notification screen 180, a message is displayed in the operation guide section 182 to inform the user that a receipt will be printed according to the receipt printing settings, such as "If receipt printing is set to 'Yes', it will be printed after the service is completed."

The continue key 184 is assigned the function of continuing the same service (executing another job with the same service). When the continue key 184 is operated, the display returns to the color setting screen 120 shown in FIG. 5. Therefore, the same service can be continued. However, when the continue key 184 is operated, the job executed before that is treated as having ended. In other words, when the continue key 184 is operated and the next job is executed, it is treated as a different job from the job executed before that. Therefore, multiple jobs of the same service may be executed by operating the continue key 184.

In addition, on the completion notification screen 180, when the end key 180a or the continue key 184 is operated, the receipt printing setting is confirmed (determined) for each job. Therefore, when the end key 180a or the continue key 184 is operated, if the first setting key 166a to which the setting of not printing a receipt is assigned is selected (the setting is set to not print a receipt), it is confirmed that a receipt will not be printed for the job. On the other hand, when the end key 180a or the continue key 184 is operated, if the second setting key 166b to which the setting of printing a receipt is assigned is selected (the setting is set to print a receipt), it is confirmed that a receipt will be printed for the job.

When the end key 180a is operated, the main service is terminated. At this time, if there is a job that is set to print a receipt, the receipt is printed and the display 14 shows a receipt printing notification screen 190, which is one of the operation screens, as shown in FIG. 12.

The receipt printing notification screen 190 is a screen for notifying the user that a receipt is being printed, and includes a guide section 192 and a forgotten item warning section 198. On the receipt printing notification screen 190, a message indicating that a receipt is being printed is displayed in the guide section 192, such as "Receipt is being printed. Please wait.".

When the receipt printing notification screen 190 is displayed, i.e., when the main service has already ended, there may be output items that are output in connection with the main service. For example, in the case of a copy service, there may be printed items that are copies of images of original documents. For this reason, the forgotten items warning section 198 of the receipt printing notification screen 190 displays a warning image (still image or moving image) to warn the user not to forget to pick up items that require attention, such as output items that are output in connection with the main service.

On the receipt printing notification screen 190, once receipt printing is complete, the screen automatically advances to the next operation screen. For example, once receipt printing is complete, the display 14 displays the lost item notification screen 200, which is the next operation screen after the receipt printing notification screen 190, as shown in FIG. 13. Note that if there is no job set to print a receipt when the main service is completed, the receipt printing notification screen 190 is not displayed, and the lost item notification screen 200 is displayed after the completion notification screen 180.

The lost item notification screen 200 is a screen for warning the user not to forget to pick up an item that requires attention, and includes an end key 200a and a lost item warning section 202.

The forgotten property warning section 202 displays a message to warn the user not to forget to pick up items to be careful about, an external view 204 of the information processing device 10 and the image forming device 70, and a number of operation keys 206 corresponding to each of the items to be careful about. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 13, six items are items to be careful about - manuscripts, printed matter, photographs, receipts, cards, and change - and six operation keys 206a to 206f corresponding to each of the items to be careful about are displayed. Furthermore, the forgotten property warning section 202 displays arrows extending from each of the multiple operation keys 206 toward the external view 204. These arrows point to the parts of the external view 204 where the items, etc. corresponding to each operation key 206 are located.

When the end key 200a is operated on the lost item notification screen 200, the home screen 110 as shown in FIG. 4 is displayed on the display 14.

As described above, in this embodiment, the print setting sections 166, 176, and 186 for allowing the user to select the print settings for the receipt (accompanying printed matter) are displayed on two or more operation screens (final setting screen 160, execution notification screen 170, and completion notification screen 180) (see Figures 9 to 11). Note that the display mode of the print setting section in the above embodiment is an example, and does not need to be limited to this. However, the print setting section is displayed on the operation screen following the screen for determining the contents of the main service (final setting screen 160 in this embodiment). Also, the print setting section is displayed on the operation screen up to the screen for notifying that the job related to the main service has been completed (completion notification screen 180 in this embodiment). That is, the print setting section is displayed on two or more operation screens among the operation screens from the screen for determining the contents of the main service to the screen for notifying that the job related to the main service has been completed. For example, the print setting section is displayed on all of the final setting screen 160, execution notification screen 170, and completion notification screen 180, but it is sufficient that the print setting section is displayed on any two operation screens. In addition, if there is an operation screen other than the execution notification screen 170 between the final setting screen 160 and the completion notification screen 180, the print setting section may be displayed on that operation screen.

In addition, each of the print setting sections 166, 176, and 186 is displayed in approximately the same position and approximately the same size on each operation screen. In other words, when each of the print setting sections displayed on different operation screens is superimposed on each other, the area where the print setting sections overlap (overlap) is larger than the area where they do not overlap (do not overlap).

In this embodiment, as a forgotten item notification service for the user, the forgotten item warning section 178, 198, 202 for warning the user not to forget the item to be noticed is displayed on two or more operation screens (execution notification screen 170, receipt printing notification screen 190, forgotten item notification screen 200) (Fig. 10, Fig. 12, Fig. 13). Note that the display mode of the forgotten item warning section in the above embodiment is one example, and it is not necessary to be limited to this. For example, when warning the user not to forget the item used in the main service, the forgotten item warning section is displayed on the operation screen displayed after the use of the target item is completed, and the forgotten item warning section for warning the user not to forget the output of the main service or the associated printed matter of the associated service is displayed on the operation screen displayed after the target deliverable is output. In addition, the forgotten item warning section for warning the user not to forget the item to be noticed comprehensively is displayed immediately after the provision of the main service is completed.

The above-described operation of the information processing system 100 is realized by the CPU 32 of the information processing device 10 executing an information processing program for the information processing device 10 stored in the RAM 34, and the CPU 82 of the image forming device 70 executing an information processing program for the image forming device 70 stored in the RAM 84. Specific processing will be described later using a flow diagram.

Figure 14 is a diagram showing an example of a memory map 300 of the RAM 34 of the information processing device 10 shown in Figure 2. As shown in Figure 14, the RAM 34 includes a program memory area 302 and a data memory area 304. As described above, the program memory area 302 of the RAM 34 stores an information processing program for the information processing device 10. This information processing program for the information processing device 10 includes a communication program 302a, an operation detection program 302b, a display program 302c, and a print setting program 302d.

The communication program 302a is a program for communicating (sending and receiving) data with the image forming device 70, an external computer such as a server, or other devices via a network.

The operation detection program 302b is a program for detecting touch input. The CPU 32 acquires touch coordinate data output from the touch panel 12 in accordance with this operation detection program 302b, and stores the acquired touch coordinate data in the RAM 34 in chronological order.

The display program 302c is a program for generating display image data, i.e., screen data such as the various operation screens described above, using the image generation data 304b described below, and outputting the data to the display 14.

The print setting program 302d is a program for setting print settings for accompanying printed materials in response to user operations on the print setting section.

Although not shown in the figure, the program memory area 302 stores a program for setting fees for services, etc. in the information processing system 100, a storage medium connection program for controlling the writing of data to various recording media attached to the storage medium connection unit 16 and the reading of data from various recording media, a ticket printing program for controlling the ticket printer 18 to print character strings, images, barcodes, etc. on roll paper, a code reading program for controlling the code reading unit 20 to extract a code image from an image captured by a laser scanner or camera and decode the extracted code image, a photo printer program for controlling the code reading unit 20 to extract a code image from an image captured by a laser scanner or camera and decode the extracted code image, and a photo printer program for controlling the code reading unit 20 to extract a code image from an image captured by a laser scanner or camera and decode the extracted code image. The program also stores a photo printing program that controls the printer 26 to print an image on photo paper, a short-range communication program that controls the short-range communication unit 22 to realize data communication with a communication target (such as an ID card, a membership card, or an electronic money medium, etc.), and a currency processing program 302i that controls the currency processing unit 24 to calculate the amount of money inserted, and a program for returning coins from the coin return port 24b or returning bills from the bill insertion port according to the amount remaining after deducting fees for certain services, etc. from the amount inserted, and a program for selecting and executing various functions of the information processing device 10.

In addition, the data storage area 304 of the RAM 34 stores operation input data 304a, image generation data 304b, print setting data 304c, etc.

The operation input data 304a is data in which touch coordinate data detected according to the operation detection program 302b is stored in chronological order. The image generation data 304b is data such as polygon data or texture data for generating display image data corresponding to various screens to be displayed on the display 14.

The print setting data 304c is data on the print settings of the associated printed material that are set according to the print setting program 302d.

Although not shown in the figure, the data memory area 304 stores other data necessary for executing the information processing program for the information processing device 10, and is provided with timers (counters) and registers necessary for executing the information processing program for the information processing device 10.

Figure 15 is a diagram showing an example of a memory map 400 of the RAM 84 of the image forming device 70 shown in Figure 3. As shown in Figure 15, the RAM 84 includes a program storage area 402 and a data storage area 404. As described above, the program storage area 402 of the RAM 84 stores an information processing program for the image forming device 70. This information processing program for the image forming device 70 includes a communication program 402a, an image reading program 402b, and an image forming program 402c.

The communication program 402a is a program for communicating with the information processing device 10 or an external computer such as a server or other devices via a network.

The image reading program 402b is a program for controlling the image reading unit 72 to read (scan) the image of the document placed on the document placement plate and output an image signal (scanned image data) corresponding to the read image.

The image forming program 402c is a program for controlling the image forming unit 74 to form a multi-color or monochrome image on a recording medium (paper) according to image data 404a, such as scanned image data or input image data.

Although not shown in the figure, the program storage area 402 also stores programs for selecting and executing various functions provided by the image forming device 70.

In addition, image data 404a and the like are stored in the data storage area 404 of the RAM 84. The image data 404a is image data read by the image reading unit 72 or image data input from an external computer such as a server.

Although not shown in the figure, the data storage area 404 stores other data necessary for executing the information processing program for the image forming device 70, and is provided with timers (counters) and registers necessary for executing the information processing program for the image forming device 70.

Figure 16 is a flow diagram showing an example of information processing executed by the CPU 32 of the information processing device 10 shown in Figure 2. This information processing is started when the main service is selected.

As shown in FIG. 16, when the CPU 32 of the information processing device 10 starts information processing, in step S1, it displays on the display 14 the first operation screen of multiple operation screens for setting the selected main service, and in step S3, it determines whether to proceed to the next operation screen. Here, it determines whether a transition key has been operated or whether a predetermined process has been completed.

If step S3 is "YES", that is, if it is determined that the next operation screen should be advanced to, then in step S5, the next operation screen is displayed on the display 14, and the process proceeds to step S7. On the other hand, if step S3 is "NO", that is, if it is determined that the next operation screen should not be advanced to, then the process proceeds to step S7 while remaining on the same operation screen.

In step S7, it is determined whether or not to end the job related to the main service. If step S7 is "NO", that is, if it is determined that the job related to the main service is not to be ended, the process returns to step S3. On the other hand, if step S7 is "YES", that is, if it is determined that the job related to the main service is to be ended, the print settings for that job are stored in step S9, and it is determined in step S11 whether or not to end the main service.

If step S11 is "NO", that is, if it is determined that the main service is not to be terminated, the process returns to step S1. On the other hand, if step S11 is "YES", that is, if it is determined that the main service is to be terminated, the print settings for each job included in the terminated main service are read in step S13, and it is determined in step S15 whether or not to print any accompanying printed materials.

If step S15 is "YES", that is, if it is determined that the accompanying printed matter is to be printed, then in step S17, the accompanying printed matter is printed and the information processing ends. On the other hand, if step S15 is "NO", that is, if it is determined that the accompanying printed matter is not to be printed, then the information processing ends without printing the accompanying printed matter.

In this first embodiment, a print setting section for allowing the user to select print settings for the accompanying printed matter of the accompanying service is displayed on two or more operation screens, and a forgotten item warning section for warning the user not to forget to pick up the item to be warned is displayed on two or more operation screens. Therefore, the accompanying service can be reliably recognized by the user, and the accompanying service can be performed according to the user's intention.
[Second embodiment]
In the information processing apparatus 10 of the second embodiment, a case where a fax transmission service is selected will be described as an example. The differences from the first embodiment will be described, and overlapping descriptions will be omitted.

An example of the operation of the information processing system 100 of the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 17 to 20. When the key 112 to which the fax service is assigned on the home screen 110 is operated (the fax service is selected), a number of operation screens (fax setting screens) for setting the operating conditions of the fax service are displayed in sequence on the display 14. For example, a screen for selecting fax sending/receiving (send/receive selection screen) is displayed first. When fax sending is selected on the send/receive selection screen (the fax sending service is selected), a destination setting screen 210 as shown in Fig. 17 is displayed on the display 14. This destination setting screen 210 is the first of a number of operation screens for setting the operating conditions of the fax service to be displayed.

The destination setting screen 210 is a screen for setting the fax destination (recipient), and includes an end key 210a, a transition key 210b, an operation guide section 212, and a setting section 214. On the destination setting screen 210, a message prompting the user to enter the destination number of the fax recipient is displayed in the operation guide section 212, such as "Enter the destination number and press 'Next'."

The setting unit 214 includes a numeric keypad (number keys), an erase key, and an input display field. The numeric keypad is used to directly input the destination number of the fax destination into the input display field, and when the numeric keypad is operated, the operated number is displayed in the input display field above the numeric keypad. The erase key is a key for erasing the number displayed in the input display field.

When the fax destination is set on the destination setting screen 210, that is, when the fax destination number is entered up to a predetermined number of digits, the transition key 210b is enabled. When the enabled transition key 210b is operated, the operation screen following the destination setting screen 210 is displayed on the display 14 in sequence.

Although not shown in the figure, for example, a screen for guiding the user on how to set the document (corresponding to the guide screen 140), a screen for checking the scanned image data (corresponding to the preview screen 150), etc. are displayed in sequence. In addition, when the operating conditions required for executing a job related to the fax transmission service (fax transmission job) are set on each operation screen, a screen for finally determining the operating conditions of the fax transmission service (corresponding to the final setting screen 160) is displayed, and when the start key (transition key) is operated on that screen, the fax transmission job is started, and a screen for notifying the user that the fax transmission job is being executed (corresponding to the execution notification screen 170), a screen for notifying the user of the transmission result of the fax transmission job (transmission result notification screen), a screen for notifying the user that the fax transmission job has been completed (corresponding to the completion notification screen 180), and a screen for warning the user not to leave any items to be noted (corresponding to the lost item notification screen 200), etc. are displayed in sequence.

If there is a job that is set to print a receipt, the receipt will be printed and a screen (corresponding to receipt printing notification screen 190) will be displayed to notify the user that the receipt is being printed before the screen to warn the user not to forget to pick up the item is displayed.

However, the multiple operation screens for setting the operating conditions of the fax service include a result table printing setting screen 220 as shown in FIG. 18.

The result table print setting screen 220 is a screen for allowing the user to select a setting (transmission result table print setting) for whether or not to output a fax transmission result table (hereinafter simply referred to as a "transmission result table") in a fax transmission result table printing service, which is an example of ancillary services, and includes an end key 220a, a guide section 222, and a print setting section (transmission result table print setting section) 224. In the result table print setting screen 220, a message for prompting the selection of the transmission result table print setting, such as "Do you want to print the transmission result table? (Printing is free of charge)", is displayed in the guide section 222.

The print setting unit 224 is provided to allow the user to select print settings for the transmission result table. In other words, the print setting unit 224 is an example of a selection unit that allows the user to select print settings for whether or not to print the transmission result table, which is an associated printed matter, and is also an example of a notification unit that notifies the user about the printing service for the transmission result table, which is an associated service.

The print setting section 224 includes a first setting key 224a to which a setting for not printing the transmission result table is assigned, and a second setting key 224b to which a setting for printing the transmission result table is assigned. The print setting for the transmission result table is determined (selected) by operating either the first setting key 224a or the second setting key 224b. The first setting key 224a and the second setting key 224b are also assigned a function for proceeding to the next operation screen, and when either the first setting key 224a or the second setting key 224b is operated, the screen switches to the next operation screen. However, the initial setting for the print setting for the transmission result table is set to not print the transmission result table. Furthermore, when switching to the next operation screen, the print setting for the transmission result table maintains the state selected on the previous operation screen.

In this embodiment, the result table print setting screen 220 is displayed at least twice between the time the fax service is selected and the time the fax transmission job is completed. That is, it is displayed at least twice between the time the initial fax setting screen is displayed and the time the screen for notifying the user that the fax transmission job is completed is displayed. More specifically, the result table print setting screen 220 is displayed at least twice before the screen for notifying the user of the transmission result of the fax transmission job is displayed. For example, the result table print setting screen 220 is displayed at least once before the screen for finally determining the contents of the main service, and at least once after the screen for finally determining the contents of the main service.

In addition, instead of the result table print setting screen 220, a result table print setting section including the guide section 222 and the print setting section 224 may be displayed as part of another operation screen. In other words, the result table print setting section may be embedded in another operation screen. In this case, the result table print setting section is displayed on two or more operation screens.

According to this second embodiment, a screen for allowing the user to select the print settings for the transmission result table is displayed multiple times, so that the user can be sure to recognize the fax transmission result table printing service and can perform the fax transmission result table printing service in line with the user's intentions.

The transmission result table is basically printed by the image forming unit 74 (first image forming unit). However, the transmission result table may be printed by the ticket printer 18 (third image forming unit) instead of the image forming unit 74. Also, the transmission result table basically prints (includes) the transmission result, transmission date and time, transmission destination, and transmission source, but may also include the title of the transmitted image or the transmitted image (if there are multiple transmitted images, one representative image).

Note that the specific configurations and so forth described in the above embodiments are merely examples and can be modified as appropriate depending on the actual product.

In the above embodiment, the information processing device 10 is provided with a display 14 with a touch panel 12, and the operation screen is displayed on the display 14, but this is not necessary. For example, the image forming device 70 may be provided with a display with a touch panel (corresponding to a first display). In this case, the display 14 with the touch panel 12 of the information processing device 10 may be omitted, or the information processing device 10 may be provided with the display 14 with the touch panel 12 (a configuration in which both the information processing device 10 and the image forming device 70 are provided with displays with touch panels). However, if the display 14 with the touch panel 12 of the information processing device 10 is omitted, the operation screen is displayed on the display of the image forming device 70. Also, if both the information processing device 10 and the image forming device 70 are provided with displays with touch panels, the operation screen may be displayed on each display, or the operation screen may be displayed on one of the displays. If the operation screen is displayed on the display of the image forming device 70, the user can perform job settings, etc. on the operation screen by touch input to the touch panel of the image forming device 70.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 10: Information processing device 12: Touch panel 14: Display 32: CPU
34...RAM
36...ROM
70 ... Image forming apparatus

Claims (9)

An information processing device that provides a user with a predetermined service and an associated service associated with the predetermined service,
a display; and a display control means for switching between a plurality of operation screens for executing the predetermined service and displaying them on the display,
Two or more of the operation screens include a notification unit for providing a notification regarding the associated service,
the associated services include a first service of printing an associated printed matter associated with the predetermined service;
the notification unit includes a selection unit for allowing a user to select a print setting regarding whether or not to print the associated printed material;
the associated printed matter includes a receipt for the specified service;
the selection unit includes a receipt print setting unit for allowing a user to select a print setting as to whether or not to print the receipt;
one of the plurality of operation screens is a final setting screen for deciding the contents of the predetermined service, and a start key is displayed on the final setting screen for accepting a start operation of a job related to the predetermined service under the operating conditions set on the operation screen up to that point;
After the start key is operated, the receipt print setting section is displayed on at least a completion notification screen among the plurality of operation screens that notifies the user that the job has been completed. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the print settings are maintained in a state selected on a previous operation screen when the operation screen is switched to a next operation screen. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the receipt print setting section is displayed on at least two operation screens subsequent to the final setting screen among the plurality of operation screens. The information processing device according to claim 3 , wherein the receipt print setting section is displayed on at least two of the plurality of operation screens up to the completion notification screen. the associated printed matter includes a result table showing the contents of the predetermined service,
the selection unit includes a result table selection unit for allowing a user to select a print setting regarding whether or not to print the result table;
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the result table selection section is displayed on two or more operation screens among the plurality of operation screens. The ancillary service includes a second service for encouraging the recovery of an item used in the specified service or a product of the specified service;
The notification unit includes a warning unit for preventing the item or the deliverable from being left behind,
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the warning portion is displayed on two or more of the plurality of operation screens. The information processing device according to claim 6 , wherein the warning portion is displayed on one of the plurality of operation screens that is displayed after use of the item is finished. one of the plurality of operation screens is a notification screen that is displayed after the predetermined service is completed;
The information processing device according to claim 6 , wherein the warning portion is displayed at least on the notification screen. 9. An information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , and an image forming apparatus capable of communicating with the information processing apparatus,
The predetermined service is executed by the information processing device and the image forming device working together.

Images