JP4725753B2 - Image processing device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus in which an operation key that receives an operation for a job that processes image data has a plurality of functions.

  A copying machine, a facsimile machine, and the like are provided with a plurality of operation keys for receiving various operations for a job. For example, if the stop key provided for manually stopping a job being processed is pressed during scanning of a document for copying or facsimile transmission, the job is canceled or the scanning is paused to cancel or resume the job. It functions to make a transition to the accepting state. The user uses this stop key to perform an emergency stop or cancellation of a job when he / she notices a setting error after the start of scanning.

  In some cases, one operation key has a plurality of functions. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a stop / clear key having both a function as a stop key and a function as a clear key (see paragraph [0034] and FIG. 4 and the like). This stop / clear key functions to clear the setting value of the selected item when pressed on the job setting screen, and functions to clear the number of copies when pressed on the copy ready screen. When pressed on the basic screen of the function, the print output in the job being processed is paused, the suspended job list screen is displayed, and the function is made to transition to a state that accepts job cancellation or resumption, and when pressed during scanning Cancels the copy job or transmission job being scanned, and displays a ready screen (see FIG. 1 and the like).

  The stop key described in Patent Document 2 functions to interrupt the scanning operation when pressed during scanning of a document, and functions to interrupt the transmission operation when pressed during facsimile transmission. (See paragraph numbers [0035] to [0037] and FIG. 12).

  In this way, the stop key may have a plurality of functions. In this case, if the key is pressed during processing of a job (such as a copy job or a facsimile transmission job) including scanning of an original, the job is canceled or scanned. Is temporarily suspended and transitioned to a state for accepting job cancellation or resumption.

  However, for a large number of originals that take a long time to complete scanning, if a job has to be canceled by pressing the stop key when a large amount of scanning is almost completed, It is inconvenient because a long time loss occurs. Therefore, there is a case where setting change is accepted without canceling the job being processed when the stop key is pressed.

  For example, in the case of the above-mentioned Patent Document 2, when the stop key is pressed during facsimile transmission, the facsimile transmission being transmitted is interrupted, a transmission reservation list is displayed, and correction of transmission reservation contents (reservation cancellation or destination correction) is accepted ( (See FIGS. 3, 4, 9, etc.) Facsimile transmission in progress is continued, the next facsimile transmission is interrupted, a transmission reservation list is displayed, and correction of transmission reservation contents is accepted (see FIG. 3). (See FIGS. 10 and 11).

  When the stop key described in Patent Document 3 is pressed during scanning of a document in facsimile transmission, the scanning of the document and the storage of image data in the memory are temporarily suspended, and the transmission reservation is performed without executing the initialization operation. Function to accept correction of contents (in the case of store-and-forward method: see paragraph numbers [0006], [0012], [0019], FIG. 2 and the like), document scan and image data memory In such a case, the function of accepting the correction of the transmission reservation contents without executing the initialization operation is continued (when the accumulation of the image data and the correction of the transmission reservation contents can be processed in parallel: paragraph) Number [0022], see [0023]).

JP 2008-18622 A Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 7-250227 JP-A-6-6499

  In the techniques of Patent Documents 1 and 2, a plurality of functions given to one operation key can be switched depending on the state of the apparatus. As described above, in Patent Document 1, a plurality of functions provided to the stop / clear key can be switched during job setting, ready, print output, and scan. In Patent Document 2, two functions (a scan interruption function and a transmission interruption function) provided to a stop key can be switched before and after the completion of scanning (during scanning and facsimile transmission).

  On the other hand, the job processing amount depends on the elapsed time from the start of the job, and increases with the progress of time. For this reason, the longer the elapsed time after starting the job, the greater the amount of reprocessing when canceling and redoing the job halfway, increasing the burden (stress) and waste (loss) on the user.

  For example, in document scanning, the longer the elapsed time after the start of scanning, the greater the amount of rescanning when scanning is canceled halfway. As long as the elapsed time after the start of scanning is short, even if the previous scan is canceled and restarted from the beginning, the time required for rescanning is short, so the burden and waste are small. However, if a large-scale scan that has been performed over a long period of time is re-executed from the beginning, the time required for re-scanning becomes longer, and the burden and waste (wasted time) increases.

  Therefore, even if the stop key has a function for transitioning to a state for accepting setting changes in addition to the job pause function and cancel function, it is not preferable to switch these functions depending on the state of the apparatus. Sometimes.

  For example, even if it is configured to switch between a job cancel function and a function for transitioning to a state for accepting a setting change before and after completion of scanning as described in Patent Document 2, a stop key is about to be completed near the end of mass scanning. When the user presses the button, the job is canceled and the mass scan that has been almost completed must be re-executed from the beginning, resulting in a heavy burden and waste to the user.

  Further, in the technique of Patent Document 3, when a stop key is pressed during scanning, the operation always shifts to a state for accepting a job setting change. Therefore, there is a special control or operation method for canceling or resuming a job. It is necessary to add (see paragraph [0023]) or to provide a job cancel key for canceling the job.

  In any case, in Patent Documents 1 to 3, the function of the stop key is fixed during scanning. In Patent Documents 1 and 2, a plurality of functions given to the stop key are switched according to the state of the apparatus. Therefore, the function of the operation key is switched according to the processing amount (elapsed time) after starting the job, or the operation key is provided to the user with the operation function corresponding to the processing amount after starting the job. Things to do are not considered.

  SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is that it provides an image processing apparatus capable of providing a user with an operation function corresponding to a processing amount after starting a job without increasing operation keys. The purpose is that.

  The gist of the present invention for achieving the object lies in the inventions of the following items.

[1] An operation key for receiving an operation for a job for processing image data;
A control unit that operates the operation key for each job with a first function until a predetermined time elapses from the start of the job , and operates with a second function after the predetermined time elapses;
Equipped with a,
The first function is a function for stopping or deleting the job;
The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the second function is a function of transitioning to a state in which a change operation for the job setting is accepted .

In the above invention, the operation key for accepting an operation on a job for processing image data is operated by the first function until a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the job, and the job is stopped or deleted. After the predetermined time has elapsed , the image processing apparatus is operated with the second function, and the image processing apparatus shifts to a state in which it accepts a change operation for job setting. In this way, by switching the function of the operation key according to the elapsed time after starting the job, the operation function according to the processing amount (elapsed time) after starting the job can be increased without increasing the operation key. Can be provided to the user. In addition, the above-described state transition makes it possible to change settings such as a job being processed or a job that is waiting or reserved. In addition, the job being processed may be temporarily stopped along with the state transition, and may be continued regardless of the state transition.

[ 2 ] The control unit changes an item for accepting the change operation in accordance with a progress status of the job at the time when the operation key is received after the predetermined time has elapsed. [ 1 ] An image processing apparatus according to 1.

  In the above invention, when an operation key operation is received after a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the job, the item for accepting the change operation is changed according to the progress of the job at that time. For example, depending on the progress of the job at the time when the operation key is operated, there may be an item that can be changed and an item that cannot be changed in the job settings. In such a case, by accepting a change operation only for a changeable item, it is possible to avoid a useless operation being performed on an item that cannot be changed. This improves operability and convenience in changing job settings.

[ 3 ] The setting of the job that accepts the change operation includes at least one of the number of output copies, the output destination, and the output method in the job including the output processing of the image data . The image processing apparatus described.

  In the above invention, the operation key is operated after a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the job to change the number of output copies in the job including the output processing of image data, change the output destination (including addition and deletion), and the output method. Changes can be made.

[ 4 ] The output process includes a print process for printing and outputting an image corresponding to the image data, a storage process for storing the image data in an output destination, and a transmission process for transmitting the image data to the output destination. The image processing apparatus according to [ 3 ], including at least one of the following.

  In the above invention, a job for performing a printing process for printing and outputting an image corresponding to the image data by operating the operation key after a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the job, or a saving process for saving the image data in the output destination. It is possible to change the number of output copies, change the output destination, and change the output method for a job to be performed or a job for performing transmission processing for transmitting image data to an output destination.

[5] A reading unit that reads an image of a document and acquires image data is provided.
The image processing apparatus according to any one of [1] to [ 4 ], wherein the job includes a reading process in which an image of the original is read by the reading unit to acquire image data. .

  In the above invention, for a job including a reading process of reading an image of a document and acquiring image data, the operation key operates with the first function until a predetermined time elapses from the start of the job. Operates with the second function. When the first function is a function for stopping or deleting a job and the second function is a function for transitioning to a state for accepting an operation for changing a job setting, until a predetermined time elapses from the start of the job The job can be stopped or deleted by operating the operation key. After a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the job, the setting of the job can be changed by operating the operation key.

  According to the image processing apparatus of the present invention, it is possible to provide a user with an operation function corresponding to a processing amount after starting a job without increasing operation keys. As a result, the user can use an appropriate operation function corresponding to the amount of processing at the time of operation for a job for which processing has been started, by operating only one operation key. Therefore, the operability and convenience for operating the job for which processing has been started is improved.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 shows a schematic configuration of a MFP (Multi Function Peripheral / Multi Function Printer) 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The multifunction device 10 is a digital multifunction device having a document copy function, a printer function, a scanner function, a facsimile function, an electronic mail function (mail transmission / reception function), a file transmission function, a BOX function, a data storage function to an external memory, and the like. This is a so-called device (image processing device). In addition, a function of performing user authentication (user authentication function) based on the input authentication information is provided.

  The printer function includes an authentication printing function (authentication print function) that performs printing requested by a client terminal such as a personal computer without authentication, and performs printing specified by the authenticated user after authenticating the user. I have.

  The facsimile function includes an Internet facsimile function (I-FAX function) for transmitting / receiving scan data and the like via a public line, as well as an electronic mail attached to an e-mail.

  The file transmission function includes a Scan to E-mail function that sends scan data attached to an e-mail, a Scan to SMB (Server Message Block) function that sends scan data to a client terminal and stores it, and FTP ( (File Transfer Protocol) A Scan to FTP function for transmitting to a server and storing it is provided.

  The BOX in the BOX function is a storage location of files provided by category for each user, each group, each theme, and the like. The BOX function is a function for storing and managing files such as scan data for each BOX (Scan to BOX function).

  The multifunction machine 10 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11 serving as a control unit, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 13, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 14, a nonvolatile memory 15, and a hard disk device 16 ( In the drawing, “HDD” (indicated as “Hard Disk Drive”), operation display unit 17, user authentication input unit 18, facsimile communication unit 19, network communication unit 20, document feeder control unit 21, scanner The unit 22, the image processing unit 23, the printer unit 24, the external memory connection unit 25, and the clock unit 26 are connected.

  The CPU 11 controls the operation of the multifunction machine 10 based on a program stored in the ROM 13. The RAM 14 is used as a work memory for temporarily storing various data when the CPU 11 executes a program, and is also used for an image memory for temporarily storing image data.

  The nonvolatile memory 15 is a memory that retains memory even when the power is turned off, and stores device-specific information, various setting information, user authentication information, and the like. The hard disk device 16 stores an operating system (OS) for operating the multifunction device 10, application programs for operating various functions of the multifunction device 10, various saved data, and image data for scanning and copying originals. The image data (print data) in printing requested from the client terminal is also saved.

  The operation display unit 17 has a function as a display unit that displays various screens and a function as an operation unit that receives various operations performed by the user or the like on the multifunction machine 10. Here, the operation display unit 17 includes a liquid crystal display, a touch panel (hereinafter referred to as “touch panel display”) provided on the screen, various hardware buttons, and the like.

  The user authentication input unit 18 has a function of accepting input of authentication information for performing user authentication. As user authentication, for example, general-purpose various authentication technologies such as card authentication technology, biometric authentication technology, and password authentication technology can be used alone or in combination.

  Card authentication technology is pre-registered by reading authentication data stored in an IC (Integrated Circuit) card or ID (Identification) card owned by a user with a contact or non-contact card reader or the like. This is an authentication technology that performs personal authentication by verifying with authentication information. The biometric authentication technique is an authentication technique in which biometric information such as a user's fingerprint or finger vein is read as authentication data by a biometric authentication unit or the like and collated with previously registered authentication information for personal authentication. The password authentication technology is an authentication technology in which a user inputs an authentication password from the operation display unit 17 and collates with authentication information registered in advance to perform personal authentication.

  The user authentication input unit 18 is configured by a card reader or the like when using card authentication technology. When biometric authentication technology is used, it is composed of a biometric authentication unit. When the password authentication technique is used, it is configured by being incorporated in the operation display unit 17.

  The facsimile communication unit 19 performs a function of communicating with an external device having a facsimile function through a public line. The network communication unit 20 performs a function of communicating with a client terminal, a server, and the like through a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network). Communication by the network communication unit 20 includes reception of print data from a client terminal, transmission / reception of e-mail using the Internet facsimile function, transmission of scan data using a file transmission function (Scan to E-mail / SMB / FTP function), and the like. It is.

  The document feeder controller 21 has a function of controlling the operation of an automatic document feeder (ADF) (not shown). The automatic document feeder has a function of automatically feeding a document to a reading position by the scanner unit 22. For example, a document tray on which documents are stacked, a conveyance path for guiding and discharging the documents stacked on the document tray to the reading position of the scanner unit 22, and a document stacked on the document tray one by one in the conveyance path. A plurality of transport rollers for feeding and passing through the reading position of the scanner unit 22 and discharging from the transport path, and a discharge tray for discharging the document read by the scanner unit 22 from the transport path, and the like.

  The scanner unit 22 performs a function of optically reading a document and acquiring image data. For example, a light source that irradiates light on a document, an image sensor that receives reflected light from the document and reads the document for one line in the width direction, and a lens or mirror that guides the reflected light from the document to the image sensor to form an image. It consists of an optical path consisting of

  The image processing unit 23 functions to perform various types of image processing, such as image correction, rotation, enlargement / reduction, compression (compression encryption) / decompression (decompression decoding), on image data. In addition, the print data (vector format image data) received from the client terminal is subjected to a rasterizing process (converted to a raster format).

  The printer unit 24 functions to print and output an image corresponding to the input image data on a sheet. For example, it is equipped with a paper transport device, photosensitive drum, charging device, laser unit, developing device, transfer separation device, cleaning device, fixing device, etc., and forms an image on the paper by an electrophotographic process Configured as a laser printer.

  The external memory connection unit 25 is detachably connected to an external memory such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. The clock unit 26 keeps time.

  The CPU 11 executes a program to operate a stop key (described later) provided on the operation display unit 17 with a function of stopping the job until a predetermined time elapses from the start of the job. The function to be operated by the function of transitioning to a state of accepting a change operation for the setting of the function is achieved. In addition, it fulfills the function of changing an item (setting item) for accepting a change operation in accordance with the progress of the job at the time when the stop key is operated after a predetermined time has elapsed. In addition, it performs a function of performing user authentication by collating authentication information such as authentication data and authentication password received by the user authentication input unit 18 with authentication information stored in the nonvolatile memory 15.

  The predetermined time (threshold value) can be set to an arbitrary time. For example, it is preferable to select from the range of 10 to 30 seconds, and more preferably 20 seconds. In addition to the uniform time, a time converted from the processing capability of the apparatus or a time corresponding to the job processing amount (absolute amount) may be used. In other words, the predetermined time includes a uniform time, a time converted from the processing capacity of the apparatus, a time corresponding to the job processing amount, and the like, and may be defined by the processing capacity of the apparatus and the job processing amount. .

  When the predetermined time is defined by the processing capacity of the apparatus, for example, the reading speed and the printing speed are the same, and the apparatus has a processing capacity (processing speed) of 60 sheets / min for A4 size (horizontal paper feed). If there is 20 seconds, 20 sheets are processed for A4 size (horizontal paper feed), and 10 sheets are processed for A3 size (vertical paper feed). it can. As for the number of sheets to be processed, the number of sheets to be processed may be set for each sheet size with respect to a plurality of sheet sizes. You may do it.

  Thus, a predetermined (constant) processing time (T) can be calculated from the set paper size, the set number of processed sheets (N), and the processing capacity (P) of the apparatus for the set paper size (T = N / P). This processing time becomes a predetermined time, and the timing at which the predetermined time elapses from the start of the job is the timing at which a set number of sheets of paper having been set is processed.

  Further, the number of sheets to be processed in the above processing time (predetermined time) may vary depending on the processing conditions. The processing conditions that affect the processing time are, for example, the paper feed direction, single-sided / double-sided, consolidated output, magnification, resolution, and the like. For this reason, it is preferable to set an initial value of the processing condition that affects the processing time, and to correct the number of processed sheets according to the difference when the setting value of the processing condition by the user is different from the initial value. In this case, the timing at which the predetermined time elapses from the start of the job is the timing at which the set number of sheets is processed by the number of processed sheets obtained by correcting the set number of processed sheets according to the processing conditions. By performing such correction, the predetermined time (processing time) is constant even if the processing conditions are different.

  As the processing amount (absolute amount) of a job, the number of processed sheets such as the number of read sheets or the number of printed sheets of a predetermined size, or the amount of processed data can be used. When the predetermined amount of time is specified by the job processing amount, it can be specified by setting the number of processed sheets and the amount of processing data. As for the number of sheets to be processed, the number of sheets to be processed may be set for each sheet size with respect to a plurality of sheet sizes. You may do it.

  When using the job processing amount as described above, the time required for processing the set processing amount (predetermined (constant) processing time) is the predetermined time, and the timing at which the predetermined time elapses from the start of the job is This is the timing when processing is performed for the processed amount.

  In addition, when the predetermined time is defined using the number of processed sheets as the processing amount, it may be affected by the processing conditions as described above (paper feeding direction, single-sided / double-sided, aggregated output, magnification, resolution, etc.) Similarly, the initial value of the processing condition that affects the number of processed sheets (the number of processed sheets per unit time of a predetermined size paper) is also set, and if the setting value of the processing condition by the user is different from the initial value, depending on the difference It is preferable to correct the number of processed sheets. In this case, the timing at which the predetermined time elapses from the start of the job is the timing at which the set number of processed sheets is processed by the number of processed sheets corrected according to the processing conditions. By performing such correction, the predetermined time is constant even if the processing conditions are different.

  Also, the administrator can change the initial value (default setting) for the uniform time set as the threshold of the predetermined time, or the above-mentioned paper size and the number of processed sheets, the job processing amount, etc. that prescribe the predetermined time. Also good.

  FIG. 2 shows the appearance of the operation display unit 17 provided in the multifunction machine 10. The operation display unit 17 includes a touch panel display 30 and various operation keys (hardware keys) configured by hardware buttons.

  The operation keys include a printer button 31 that accepts a printer mode (print mode) selection, a scanner button 32 that accepts a scanner mode (scan mode) selection, a fax button 33 that accepts a fax mode (facsimile mode) selection, and a copy. A copy button 34 that accepts a mode selection, a start key 35 that accepts a job start / restart operation, a stop key 36 that accepts an operation such as job stop described above, and a numeric keypad 37.

  When the above-described mode selection button (printer button 31, scanner button 32, fax button 33, copy button 34) is pressed, the multifunction device 10 sets the selected mode on the touch panel display 30 of the operation display unit 17. To accept various settings.

  On the setting screen for the printer mode and copy mode, settings for various items (printing conditions) relating to printing, such as density setting, single-sided / double-sided selection, paper size selection, magnification setting, number of copies setting, etc. are accepted. The setting screen for the fax mode accepts settings for various items (transmission conditions) related to facsimile transmission, such as transmission destination setting, reserved transmission, and transmission time setting. On the scanner mode setting screen, you can set various items related to document scanning (scanning conditions), select the output destination of scanned image data (scan data), and more details include Scan to E-mail, Scan to SMB, Selects Scan to BOX, external memory, etc.

  The job setting in the multifunction machine 10 is performed through the above setting screen. The jobs include various jobs including image data input processing (input process) and output processing (output process). The input processing includes image data reading processing (reading process) and reception processing (receiving process), and the output processing includes image data printing processing (printing process), transmission processing (transmission process), and storage processing (storage process). ) Etc.

  Next, the operation of the multifunction machine 10 will be described.

  3 to 6 show the flow of job processing in the multifunction machine 10. As described above, when the stop key 36 is operated after a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the job, the multifunction device 10 transitions to a state in which a change operation for the job setting is accepted. Here, an example of changing the number of copies (number of copies) in a print job or copy job that is a job including print processing and adding an output destination in a job including output processing will be described. The change in the number of copies is shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, and the addition of the output destination is shown in FIGS. 3, 5, and 6.

[Changing the number of copies] (See FIGS. 3 to 5)
First, changing the number of copies of a print job or a copy job will be described. The CPU 11 of the multifunction device 10 starts this processing upon accepting job input (Start), starts the job (Step S101), and starts measuring time based on the time when the job is started (Step S102).

  In a print job, reception of print data from the client terminal is input of the job, and start of print processing for the print data is start of the job. In the authentication print job, user authentication is performed based on the authentication information input from the user authentication input unit 18, and the printer mode selection (pressing the printer button 31) and execution by the authenticated user through the operation display unit 17 are performed. The press of the start key 35 after receiving the designation of the print job to be performed starts the job.

  When the print job is started, as print processing, image processing by the image processing unit 23 and print output by the printer unit 24 are performed on the print data.

  In the copy job, the start key 35 after the user has set the original on the automatic document feeder, selected the copy mode through the operation display unit 17 (pressing the copy button 34), various settings related to copying, and the like. Pressing the button inputs and starts the job.

  When the copy job is started, the original data is automatically fed by the automatic document feeder and the original is read (scanned) by the scanner unit 22 as the reading process, and the image data obtained by reading the original by the scanner unit 22 is the printing process. Image processing by the image processing unit 23 and printing output by the printer unit 24 are performed.

  The time measurement based on the job start time is performed based on the time information output from the clock unit 26.

  When the CPU 11 starts measuring the job and time, the CPU 11 monitors the pressing of the stop key 36 until the job is completed (Step S103; No to Step S104; No loop). When the job is completed (Step S104; Yes), This process ends (End).

  When the stop key 36 is pressed before the job is completed (step S103; Yes), the CPU 11 determines whether or not the elapsed time from the start of the job is a threshold value (predetermined time) or more. Judgment is made (step S105).

  If it is less than the threshold (step S105; No), the CPU 11 stops the job (step S106), and monitors the operation for restarting the job (pressing the start key 35) and the operation for deleting (cancelling) the job (step S106). Step S107; No to Step S108; No loop).

  When a job resumption operation is accepted (step S107; Yes), the job is resumed (step S109), and the process proceeds to step S104. When a job deletion operation is accepted (step S108; Yes), the job is deleted (step S110), and this process is terminated (End).

  If the elapsed time from the start of the job is equal to or greater than the threshold (step S105; Yes), the CPU 11 checks the progress of the job (step S111) and determines whether or not the job setting can be changed at this time. Is determined (step S112).

  If the job setting cannot be changed (step S112; No), the process proceeds to step S106, the job is stopped, and the subsequent processing steps are performed. If the job setting can be changed (step S112; Yes), the CPU 11 causes the MFP 10 to transition to a state for accepting a change operation for the job setting without stopping the job, and sets a plurality of setting items in the job. The setting items that can be changed at the present time are extracted from the menu (step S113), and the selection buttons for the setting items extracted are displayed in the menu format or the like on the operation display unit 17 (step S114).

  The setting items that can be changed are the number of copies (increase or decrease) in the print job. For copy jobs, if you start printing after scanning is complete (such as copy-by-unit printing or reverse page order printing) and before print output starts (during scanning), various settings related to printing, post-processing, paper output destination, etc. Items include, for example, paper size, printing surface (single side / double side), density, magnification, number of copies (increase or decrease), staple, punch, paper discharge tray, and the like. If the print output is started (after completion of scanning), the number of copies (increase or decrease) is used.

  When the extracted setting item includes the number of copies, a copy number selection button is displayed on the operation display unit 17. When the selection button is pressed and the number of copies is selected (step S201 in FIG. 4; Yes), the CPU 11 displays a copy number change screen on the operation display unit 17 (step S202). If an operation for stopping the job (such as pressing the stop key 36) is received (step S203; No), the process proceeds to step S106, where the job is stopped and the subsequent processing steps are performed.

  When an operation for changing the number of copies is accepted (step S203; Yes) and the change content is an increase in the number of copies (step S204; Yes), the CPU 11 reflects the changed number of copies in the job information (step S205). The job is continued and the process proceeds to step S104.

  When the change content is a reduction in the number of copies (step S204; No), the CPU 11 determines whether or not the changed number of copies is larger than the number of copies that have been printed (step S206). If there are many (step S206; Yes), the CPU 11 reflects the changed number of copies in the job information (step S205), continues the job, and proceeds to step S104. If the number of copies after the change is equal to or less than the number of copies that have been printed (step S206; No), the CPU 11 ends the printing process, ends the job (step S207), and ends this process (End).

  When the selection button for setting items other than the number of copies displayed on the operation display unit 17 is pressed (step S201 in FIG. 4; No), the CPU 11 displays the selected setting item on the operation display unit 17. A change screen is displayed (step S301 in FIG. 5). If an operation for stopping the job (such as pressing the stop key 36) is received (step S302; No), the process proceeds to step S106 to stop the job, and the subsequent processing steps are performed.

  When a change operation for the setting item (selected setting item) on which the change screen is displayed is received (step S302; Yes), the CPU 11 performs a change process according to the change operation (step S303), The changed contents are reflected in the information (step S304), the job is continued, and the process proceeds to step S104.

  FIG. 7 shows a job interruption screen 40 displayed on the touch panel display 30 of the operation display unit 17 in step S106 of FIG.

  On the interruption screen 40, a message 41 indicating an operation method related to resumption and deletion of an interrupted job, an interrupt job tab 42 indicating that display about the interrupted job is being performed, and an interrupt job display indicating the interrupted job are displayed. A column 43 and a delete button 44 for receiving an operation for deleting a job are displayed.

  When the start key 35 is pressed here, the suspended job displayed in the suspended job display field 43 of the suspended screen 40 is resumed. When the display area of the interrupted job display field 43 is pressed to select an interrupted job and the delete button 44 is pressed, the interrupted job is deleted (cancelled).

  FIG. 8 shows the menu screen 50 displayed on the touch panel display 30 of the operation display unit 17 in step S114 of FIG.

  On the menu screen 50, a message 51 indicating an operation method related to changing or stopping a setting in a job, a setting change tab 52 indicating that a setting change display is being performed, and setting items that can be changed are displayed. In this example, selection buttons (setting item buttons) 53, 54, 55, and 56 that accept an operation for selecting setting items A, B, C, and D, an OK button 57 that accepts an operation for confirming the selected setting item, and a job A stop button 58 (displayed as “STOP” in the figure) that accepts an operation to stop is displayed.

  If one of the selection buttons 53, 54, 55, and 56 is pressed to select one of the setting items A, B, C, and D, and the OK button 57 is pressed, the selection is confirmed and the setting item is changed. Switch to the change screen. When the stop button 58 is pressed, the job is stopped.

  FIG. 9 shows a copy number change screen 60 displayed on the touch panel display 30 of the operation display unit 17 in step S202 of FIG.

  On the copy change screen 60, a message 61 indicating an operation method related to changing the number of copies and stopping the job, a setting tab 62 indicating that a display related to setting is being performed, and a copy number display column 63 in which the number of copies after the change is displayed. Then, an OK button 64 for accepting an operation for determining the number of copies after the change, a stop button 65 for accepting an operation for stopping the job (displayed as “STOP” in the drawing), and the like are displayed.

  Here, when the change value of the number of copies is input by operating the numeric keypad 37, the input change value is displayed in the number of copies display column 63. When the OK button 64 is pressed, the input change value is confirmed and the number of copies is changed to the change value. When the stop button 65 is pressed, the job is stopped.

[Add output destination] (See Figs. 3, 5, and 6)
Next, job output destination addition including image data output processing will be described.

  The image data that is the target of the output process includes the image data of the document obtained by reading the document, the image data of the file stored in the BOX of the multifunction device 10, and the external memory connection unit 25 of the multifunction device 10. For example, image data of a file stored in a connected external memory.

  The job including the image data output process includes a job including a print process for printing and outputting an image corresponding to the image data, and a storage process for storing the image data in an output destination (storage destination) such as a BOX or an external memory. Jobs and image data sent to the output destination (destination) by facsimile, sent as an e-mail attachment via facsimile (Internet facsimile transmission), sent as an e-mail attachment (Scan to E-) mail transmission), and a job including transmission processing for transmission to a client terminal (Scan to SMB transmission).

  When receiving the job input, the CPU 11 of the multifunction machine 10 starts this processing (Start) and starts the job (Step S101).

  When outputting image data of a document, a start key after receiving setting of a document on the automatic document feeder by the user, selection of an output mode through the operation display unit 17, various settings in the output mode, and the like Pressing 35 is the input and start of the job. When outputting image data of a file stored in the BOX of the multifunction device 10 or an external memory connected to the multifunction device 10, the user selects the output mode through the operation display unit 17, specifies the file, and Pressing the start key 35 after accepting various settings in the output mode, etc., inputs and starts a job.

  The output mode is selected by pressing the copy button 34 when copying a document. When printing a file, the printer button 31 is pressed. When facsimile transmission of a document or file is performed, the fax button 33 is pressed. When storing image data of a document in a BOX or external memory, Internet facsimile transmission of a document or file, Scan to E-mail transmission, Scan to SMB transmission, etc., the scanner button 32 is pressed.

  After the start of the job, the above-described steps S102 to S114 in FIG. 3 are performed.

  In this case, the changeable setting items extracted in step S113 are various setting items related to printing, post-processing, paper discharge destination, etc., and output destinations (saves) in a job including print processing before printing output starts. Destination and transmission destination), output method (change from print output to save and transmission), and the like. If the print output is started, the number of copies (increase or decrease), the output destination (addition of storage destination or transmission destination), and the like.

  In a job including a saving process, if it is before saving starts, the output destination (addition of print output or transmission destination), the output method (change from saving to print output or transmission), and the like. If it is after the start of saving, it is the output destination (print output or addition of transmission destination).

  For jobs that include transmission processing, the transmission destination (addition or deletion), output destination (addition of print output or storage destination), output method (change from transmission to print output or storage), reserved transmission, if transmission is not yet started Time (timer reservation). After the start of transmission, it is a transmission destination (addition), an output destination (print output or addition of a transmission destination), and the like.

  If the extracted setting item includes output destination addition in step S113 of FIG. 3, an output destination addition selection button is displayed on the operation display unit 17 in step S114. When this selection button is pressed and output destination addition is selected (step S401 in FIG. 6; Yes), the CPU 11 displays an output destination addition screen on the operation display unit 17 (step S402). If an operation for stopping the job (such as pressing the stop key 36) is accepted (step S403; No), the process proceeds to step S106 to stop the job, and the subsequent processing steps are performed.

  An operation for adding an output destination is accepted (step S403; Yes), and if the added content is printing (step S404; Yes), the CPU 11 starts image data printing processing under the set conditions (step S405). The process proceeds to step S104. If the added content is storage (step S404; No → step S406; Yes), the CPU 11 starts the processing for storing the image data in the designated storage destination (step S407), and proceeds to step S104. When the additional content is transmission (step S406; No), the CPU 11 starts a process of transmitting image data to the designated transmission destination (step S408), and proceeds to step S104.

  Further, when the selection item selection button other than the output destination addition displayed on the operation display unit 17 is pressed (step S401 in FIG. 6; No), the above-described processing steps in FIG. 5 are performed.

  FIG. 10 shows an output destination addition screen 70 displayed on the touch panel display 30 of the operation display unit 17 in step S402 of FIG.

  The output destination addition screen 70 includes a message 71 indicating an operation method related to addition or stop of an output destination in a job, a print tab 72 for accepting an operation for selecting a print (print) as an output destination to be added, and an output destination to be added. A save tab 73 for accepting an operation for selecting save, a send tab 74 for accepting an operation for selecting transmission as an output destination to be added, a stop button 75 for accepting an operation for stopping a job (displayed as “STOP” in the drawing), and the like Is displayed.

  When the print tab 72 is pressed and selected, the screen is switched to a print addition screen 76 shown in FIG. When the save tab 73 is pressed and selected, the screen is switched to a save destination addition screen 80 shown in FIG. When the transmission tab 74 is pressed and selected, the screen is switched to a transmission destination addition screen 86 shown in FIG. When the stop button 75 is pressed, the job is stopped.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the print addition screen 76 includes a message 77 indicating an operation method related to print setting and start and job stop, and a selection button (setting item button) for accepting operations for selecting various setting items for printing. ) 78, a print start button 79 for accepting an operation for confirming the selected setting item and starting (adding and confirming) printing (printing), the print tab 72, the save tab 73, the transmission tab 74, and the stop described in FIG. A button 75 or the like is displayed.

  Here, a desired selection button 78 is pressed to make settings relating to printing, and when a print start button 79 is pressed, printing is started under the set conditions. When the stop button 75 is pressed, the job is stopped. When the save tab 73 is pressed, the screen is switched to the save destination addition screen 80 (see FIG. 12), and when the send tab 74 is pressed, the screen is switched to the transmission destination addition screen 86 (see FIG. 13).

  As shown in FIG. 12, the save destination addition screen 80 includes a message 81 indicating an operation method related to designation of a save destination and job stop, and a shared BOX button for accepting an operation for designating a shared BOX as a save destination in this example. 82, a personal BOX button 83 for accepting an operation for designating a personal BOX, an external memory button 84 for accepting an operation for designating an external memory, and an operation for confirming a designated storage destination and starting (additional confirmation). The save start button 85, the print tab 72, the save tab 73, the send tab 74, the stop button 75, and the like described in FIG. 10 are displayed.

  Here, when the desired shared BOX button 82, personal BOX button 83, and external memory button 84 are pressed to specify the storage destination, and the storage start button 85 is pressed, saving of the image data to the specified storage destination is started. . When the stop button 75 is pressed, the job is stopped. When the print tab 72 is pressed, the screen is switched to the print addition screen 76 (see FIG. 11), and when the transmission tab 74 is pressed, the screen is switched to the transmission destination addition screen 86 (see FIG. 13).

  As shown in FIG. 13, the transmission destination addition screen 86 includes a message 87 indicating an operation method related to designation of a transmission destination and job stop, and a fax button 88 that accepts an operation for designating facsimile transmission as a transmission destination in this example. (Displayed as “FAX” in the figure), an Internet fax button 89 (displayed as “I-FAX” in the figure) for accepting an operation for specifying Internet facsimile transmission, and an operation for specifying Scan to E-mail transmission. Scan to E-mail button 90 to accept, Scan to SMB button 91 to accept an operation for designating Scan to SMB transmission, and Transmission start button 92 to accept an operation for confirming the designated transmission destination and starting transmission (addition confirmation) Then, the print tab 72, the save tab 73, the transmission tab 74, the stop button 75, etc. described in FIG. 10 are displayed.

  When a desired fax button 88, Internet fax button 89, Scan to E-mail button 90, or Scan to SMB button 91 is pressed to specify a transmission destination, and a transmission start button 92 is pressed, the specified transmission destination is displayed. Transmission of image data is started. When the stop button 75 is pressed, the job is stopped. When the print tab 72 is pressed, the screen is switched to the print addition screen 76 (see FIG. 11), and when the save tab 73 is pressed, the screen is switched to the storage destination addition screen 80 (see FIG. 12).

  As described above, in the MFP 10 according to the present embodiment, the stop key 36 operates with the function of stopping the job until a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the job. When the job is stopped by pressing the stop key 36 during this period, the job is displayed on the operation display unit 17 as an interrupted job (see FIG. 7), and can be deleted or resumed. After a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the job, the stop key 36 operates with a function of causing the multifunction machine 10 to transition to a state where it accepts a change operation for job settings. If the stop key 36 is pressed during this period, the setting can be changed while continuing the job.

  For example, as described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 10, if a notice of the number of copies is noticed during scanning or printing of an original document, or if it is desired to add an output destination, a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the job. By pressing the stop key 36, the number of copies can be corrected and the output destination can be added while continuing without canceling the job. This eliminates the need to redo a large-scale scan performed over a predetermined time from the beginning, thereby reducing the burden (stress) and waste (loss) on the user.

  In particular, in a job including a document reading process, if canceling and redoing in the middle, it takes time and effort to realign the documents and set them in the automatic document feeder. In addition, if it is necessary to wait again for the physical operation from feeding to discharging for the entire number of documents to be read, the burden and waste on the user will increase, and the large number of scans will be restarted. If this happens, those adverse effects will become even greater. It is preferable that a setting error can be corrected for such a job without canceling in the middle.

  In this way, by switching the function of the stop key 36 according to the elapsed time from the start of the job, the number of operation keys is increased according to the processing amount (elapsed time) from the start of the job. The user can use the appropriate operation function corresponding to the processing amount at the time of operation for the job for which the processing has been started, only by operating the stop key 36. Therefore, the operability and convenience for operating the job for which processing has been started is improved.

  When the stop key 36 is pressed after a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the job, an item (setting item) for accepting a change operation is changed according to the progress of the job at that time. Specifically, as described above, the changeable item is extracted and the change operation is accepted only for the changeable item by displaying only the item.

  As a result, it is possible to avoid unnecessary operations on items that cannot be changed, and the operability and convenience for changing job settings are improved. In particular, by displaying only items that accept change operations, the user can easily grasp and select items that can be changed at the present time for a job being processed (in progress).

  The embodiment of the present invention has been described with reference to the drawings. However, the specific configuration is not limited to that shown in the embodiment, and there are changes and additions within the scope of the present invention. Are also included in the present invention.

  For example, in the embodiment, the stop key 36 has been described as an example, but other operation keys (hardware keys) may be used. Also, the functions (first and second functions) of various operation keys including the stop key are not limited to the functions described in the embodiment.

  For example, a start / stop key that uses both a start key and a stop key is operated with a function that starts the job before the job is started, and the job is stopped or deleted until a predetermined time elapses from the start of the job. It is also possible to operate with a function (first function), and after a lapse of a predetermined time, operate with a function (second function) for transitioning to a state for accepting a change operation for a job setting.

  In the embodiment, the stop key is operated with the function of stopping the job until a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the job. Instead, the stop key may be operated with the function of deleting the job. Good. In this case, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 3, steps S106 to S109 are omitted, and the process proceeds from step S105 to step S110.

  Further, although cases have been described with the embodiments where the setting is mainly changed for a job being processed, the setting may be changed for a waiting job or a reserved job. In this case, for example, a tab (such as a standby job tab or a reserved job tab) for displaying a list of waiting or reserved jobs is displayed on the interruption screen 40 shown in FIG. 7, and the tab is pressed. Switch to the job list screen to display a list of waiting or reserved jobs. A setting change may be accepted for the job selected on the job list screen.

  Also, in the embodiment, when the MFP 10 transitions to a state where it accepts a change operation for job settings, it continues without stopping the job being processed. ).

  Further, the continuation / stop of the job being processed may be switched according to a predetermined condition. The predetermined condition includes, for example, an elapsed time since the job was started, a job processing amount, a job progress status, and a setting item for the job selected by the user. Depending on these conditions, it may be better to stop the job when changing the settings, or there is a case where the job does not have to be stopped (the effect is small even if it continues). Depending on the situation, continuation / stop control of the job being processed may be performed.

  The change in the number of copies and the addition of the output destination described in the embodiment are setting items for the job selected by the user. Since these conditions have little influence even if a setting change is accepted without stopping the job, the setting change is accepted while continuing as described above. In this way, when accepting a setting change without stopping the job being processed, a decrease in productivity can be suppressed.

  Further, in step S114 in the flowchart of FIG. 3, by displaying only the setting items that can be changed as shown in FIG. 8, it is possible to easily grasp (identify) the setting items that can be changed. This is not limited to this. For example, a setting item that cannot be changed is displayed in gray on the normal setting screen (deactivated), and only a setting item that is not grayed out can be identified so that it can be changed. Good.

  Further, if there is only one setting item that can be changed as a result of the extraction in step S113, the screen changes directly to the setting change screen of the setting item without changing to the menu screen as shown in FIG. Alternatively, step S114 may be omitted.

  In addition, when there is one default setting item that accepts changes or one type for each job type, a setting item that can be changed is extracted, and a menu for displaying a selection button for the extracted setting item Since it is not necessary to do so, they may not be performed (steps S113 / S114 are deleted). That is, as a result of confirming the progress of the job (step S111), when it is determined that the default setting item can be changed (step S112; Yes), the setting item setting change screen may be displayed.

  In addition, when configured to stop the job and accept changes, or to accept changes only for setting items (such as changing the number of copies or adding output destinations) that have little impact even if changes are accepted without stopping the job In the case where it is configured, since it is less necessary to check the progress of the job and to determine whether or not to change the setting, these may not be performed (steps S111 / S112 are deleted).

  In the embodiment, the MFP 10 has a user authentication function, and the CPU 11 of the MFP 10 performs user authentication (personal authentication). The user authentication is connected to the MFP 10 via a network. An authentication server or the like may perform (server authentication). For example, the multifunction device 10 transmits authentication information received by the user authentication input unit 18 from the network communication unit 20 to the authentication server through the network and requests user authentication. The authentication server performs user authentication by comparing the authentication information received from the multifunction device 10 with previously registered authentication information, and returns the result (authentication permitted / denied) to the requesting multifunction device 10 via the network. You may make it do.

  Further, in the multifunction machine 10 according to the embodiment, the touch panel type operation display unit 17 has the functions of the operation unit and the display unit. However, the operation unit and the display unit may be configured separately. The printer unit 24 in the multifunction machine 10 may be a printer of another type such as an LED printer that scans and exposes a photosensitive drum with an LED (Light Emitting Diode) instead of a laser beam.

  The present invention is not limited to the multi-function device described in the embodiment, and can be applied to other image processing apparatuses such as a copying machine and a facsimile machine.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a multifunction machine as an image processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an appearance of an operation display unit of the multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment of the present invention. 6 is a flowchart illustrating job processing performed by the multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment of the present invention. 6 is a flowchart showing processing steps for changing the number of copies in job processing performed by the multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment of the present invention. 10 is a flowchart illustrating processing steps for changing other setting items in job processing performed by the multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment of the present invention. 6 is a flowchart illustrating processing steps for adding an output destination in job processing performed by the multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a job interruption screen displayed on the operation display unit of FIG. 2. It is a figure which shows the menu screen of the setting item which can be changed displayed on the operation display part of FIG. It is a figure which shows the copy number change screen displayed on the operation display part of FIG. It is a figure which shows the output destination addition screen displayed on the operation display part of FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a print addition screen displayed on the operation display unit of FIG. 2. It is a figure which shows the storage destination addition screen displayed on the operation display part of FIG. It is a figure which shows the transmission destination addition screen displayed on the operation display part of FIG.

Explanation of symbols

10 ... MFP (MFP)
11 ... CPU
12 ... Bus 13 ... ROM
14 ... RAM
15 ... Nonvolatile memory 16 ... Hard disk drive (HDD)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 17 ... Operation display part 18 ... User authentication input part 19 ... Facsimile communication part 20 ... Network communication part 21 ... Document feeder control part 22 ... Scanner part 23 ... Image processing part 24 ... Printer part 25 ... External memory connection part 26 ... Clock Part 30 ... Touch panel display 31 ... Printer button 32 ... Scanner button 33 ... Fax button 34 ... Copy button 35 ... Start key 36 ... Stop key 37 ... Numeric keypad 40 ... Interruption screen 41 ... Message 42 ... Interruption job tab 43 ... Interruption job display field 44 ... Delete button 50 ... Menu screen 51 ... Message 52 ... Setting change tab 53, 54, 55, 56 ... Select button (setting item button)
57 ... OK button 58 ... Stop button 60 ... Number of copies change screen 61 ... Message 62 ... Setting tab 63 ... Number of copies display field 64 ... OK button 65 ... Stop button 70 ... Output destination addition screen 71 ... Message 72 ... Print tab 73 ... Save tab 74 ... Send tab 75 ... Stop button 76 ... Add print screen 77 ... Message 78 ... Select button (setting item button)
79 ... Print start button 80 ... Save destination addition screen 81 ... Message 82 ... Shared BOX button 83 ... Personal BOX button 84 ... External memory button 85 ... Save start button 86 ... Destination addition screen 87 ... Message 88 ... Fax button 89 ... Internet Fax button 90 ... Scan to E-mail button 91 ... Scan to SMB button 92 ... Start transmission button

Claims (5)

An operation key for accepting an operation on a job for processing image data;
A control unit that operates the operation key for each job with a first function until a predetermined time elapses from the start of the job , and operates with a second function after the predetermined time elapses;
Equipped with a,
The first function is a function for stopping or deleting the job;
The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the second function is a function of transitioning to a state in which a change operation for the job setting is accepted . 2. The item according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit changes an item for accepting the change operation according to a progress status of the job when the operation key is operated after the predetermined time has elapsed. Image processing device. 3. The image according to claim 2 , wherein the setting of the job that receives the change operation includes at least one of the number of output copies, the output destination, and the output method in the job including the output processing of the image data. Processing equipment. The output process includes at least one of a print process for printing and outputting an image corresponding to the image data, a storage process for storing the image data in an output destination, and a transmission process for transmitting the image data to the output destination. The image processing apparatus according to claim 3 , further comprising: A reading unit that reads an image of a document and obtains image data;
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the job includes a reading process in which an image of the original is read by the reading unit to acquire image data.

Images