JP5615340B2 - Image forming apparatus, image forming apparatus control method, and program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, a control method for the image forming apparatus, and a program.

  The operation history display means and method of use in a conventional image forming apparatus will be described below.

  First, an operation procedure when performing copying in a conventional image forming apparatus will be described below with reference to a flowchart of FIG.

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation procedure when copying is performed in a conventional image forming apparatus, and steps S3301 to S3310 indicate each step.

  The operator first selects a function (S3301). Here, it is assumed that the copy function selection switch is pressed and the copy function is selected. As a result, a user interface corresponding to the copy function is displayed on the liquid crystal panel of the operation unit.

  Next, on this user interface, the operator uses the same size switch or magnification switch to set the copy magnification (S3302), selects the copy paper size using the paper size switch (S3303), and presses the numeric keypad. Using this, the number of copies is set (S3304). Since the contents set in steps S3302 to S3304 are displayed on the status display part of the operation part, the operator can check the current setting.

  Subsequently, the operator depresses the sorter switch as necessary to set the sort method (S3305), depresses the duplex switch, selects the duplex mode (S3306), depresses the density setting switch, and sets the copy density. The setting is performed (S3307), and the application mode switch is pressed to set the application mode (S3308).

  Note that in steps S3305 to S3308 described here, a new user interface screen is displayed on the liquid crystal panel by pressing each switch, and detailed settings can be made, but this is not relevant to the gist of the present invention. Will be omitted (however, only the application mode setting performed in step S3308 will be described later).

  When the above settings are completed, the operator presses the start switch to prepare for copying, and issues a copy start command to the image forming apparatus (S3309). Then, the image forming apparatus that has detected this command executes a copy process (S3310), and the copy operation is completed.

  Next, a conventional method of using an operation history provided as one function in the application mode will be described below.

  When the operation history switch is pressed in the application mode, a conventional operation history detail setting screen shown in FIG. 24 is popped up on the liquid crystal panel.

  FIG. 24 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an operation history detail setting screen in a conventional image forming apparatus.

  In FIG. 24, 3202 is a history information display screen for displaying setting information set when a copy operation has been performed in the past. Reference numeral 3203 denotes a previous switch for displaying the previous operation history. Reference numeral 3204 denotes a second previous switch for displaying the previous operation history. Reference numeral 3205 denotes a third previous switch for displaying the previous operation history.

  Reference numeral 3206 denotes a cancel switch for closing the operation history detail setting screen 3201 without reflecting the setting information displayed on the history information display screen 3202 to the image forming apparatus. Reference numeral 3207 denotes an OK switch for reflecting the setting information displayed on the history information display screen 3202 on the image forming apparatus and then closing the operation history detail setting screen 3201.

  For example, when the operator wants to refer to the setting information remaining in the previous operation history, when the second switch 3204 is pressed, the history information display screen 3202 displays the information set during the previous copy operation. Displayed as history.

  In this state, when the operator presses an OK switch 3207 to use this setting information, this setting is automatically set in the image forming apparatus, and the operation history detail setting screen 3201 is automatically closed.

  The copy operation setting function based on the operation history using the history information display screen 3202 described above makes it possible to greatly skip (saving labor) the copy operation setting procedure described in the flowchart of FIG.

  Patent Document 1 is an image forming apparatus using an operation history.

JP 2000-231309 A

  However, in the conventional image forming apparatus, all operations of the image forming apparatus are stored and reused as the same level of operation history. Therefore, when the image forming apparatus is shared by a plurality of people, the image forming apparatus is actually used. It is expected that it will be difficult to find its own operation history because even the operation history of others with low possibility of reuse is displayed.

  When the operation history has reached the upper limit of the number of operation histories that can be stored, that is, when the operation history reaches three in the example shown in FIG. The history is deleted. Therefore, for example, it is predicted that the operation history operated by oneself in the past will be lost not only by one's own operation but also by another person's operation, which may make it difficult to maintain better usability.

  Furthermore, the operation history in the conventional image forming apparatus is automatically transmitted to the image forming apparatus by the operation of the previous switch 3203, the second previous switch 3204, the third previous switch 3205, and the OK switch 3207 for displaying the operation history. Due to the setting mechanism, for example, even if an automatically set past operation cannot be used at that time, there is a possibility that the operator may not be aware of it.

  For this reason, after performing copy settings using the operation history, there is a possibility that it will be the first time that an incorrect setting has been made due to an error message displayed on the image forming apparatus when the actual copy operation starts. is there. In this case, it is necessary to start again from the setting, which can be one factor that reduces productivity.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and the object of the present invention is to display the setting history of another person who is unlikely to be reused and to find his own setting history. To provide an image processing apparatus, a method for controlling an image forming apparatus, and a program that enable an operator to easily select and reuse a desired setting history It is.

The image forming apparatus according to the present invention includes a setting unit configured to perform print settings for executing a print process, an execution unit configured to execute the print process according to the print settings performed by the setting unit, and a personal authentication state. When the print setting is performed by the setting unit, the print setting performed for the print process executed by the execution unit is stored as a first setting history in association with the authenticated individual. When print setting is performed by the setting unit in a state where personal authentication has not been performed, the print setting performed for the print processing performed by the execution unit is stored as a second setting history. And executing a print process using the setting history stored in the storage means, the personal authentication is performed if the personal authentication is performed. Said first setting history displayed on the display means is, by utilizing the setting history selected by the user from the displayed first setting history to execute a printing process, there in a state of not being personal authentication For example, the first and second setting histories are displayed on the display unit, and the printing process is executed using the setting histories selected by the user from the displayed first and second setting histories. Control means for controlling.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to solve the problem that it is difficult to find the setting history of oneself because the setting history of another person who is unlikely to be reused is actually displayed on the display unit. The setting history can be easily selected and reused.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is sectional drawing which shows the mechanical structure of the scanner part shown in FIG. 1, a printing part, and a paper discharge part. It is a top view which shows the structure of the operation part shown in FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the application mode detailed setting screen pop-up displayed on the liquid crystal panel shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of an operation history detail setting screen pop-up displayed on the liquid crystal panel illustrated in FIG. 3. It is a schematic diagram which shows the structure of the personal authentication screen pop-up displayed on the liquid crystal panel shown in FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation procedure and a processing procedure when a copying operation is performed using the image forming apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a user ID table stored in an HDD unit (or a non-volatile memory not shown) or the like for storing user authentication information in the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a personal operation history storage table placed in an HDD unit (or a non-volatile memory not shown) or the like in order to store the operation history of each individual who has been personally authenticated in the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment. Non-authentication operation history storage stored in an HDD unit (or non-volatile memory not shown) or the like for storing an operation history (non-authentication operation history) related to an operation that is not personally authenticated in the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment. It is a figure which shows a table. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the 1st control processing procedure in this invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the 1st control processing procedure in this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the state which specified the log | history which cannot be used on the operation log detailed setting screen shown in FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the system containing the information processing apparatus and image forming apparatus which show 2nd Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a UI screen display of a printer driver executed on the information processing apparatus illustrated in FIG. 14. FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a UI screen display of a printer driver executed on the information processing apparatus illustrated in FIG. 14. FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a printer driver operation history detail setting screen executed on the information processing apparatus illustrated in FIG. 14. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the 2nd control processing procedure in this invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the 2nd control processing procedure in this invention. FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram illustrating a state in which an unusable history is clearly indicated on the printer driver operation history detail setting screen illustrated in FIG. 17. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the 3rd control processing procedure in this invention. It is a figure explaining the memory map of the storage medium (recording medium) which stores the various data processing program which can be read (read) with the image forming apparatus which concerns on this invention, and information processing apparatus. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation procedure when performing copying in a conventional image forming apparatus. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an operation history detail setting screen in a conventional image forming apparatus.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and particularly corresponds to an image forming apparatus (also referred to as a digital multifunction peripheral) having a copy function, a FAX function, a printing function, and the like. .

  In FIG. 1, a main controller unit 5501 includes a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, and the like. The CPU executes a program stored in a ROM or other recording medium, thereby controlling the entire image forming apparatus. Reference numeral 5502 denotes an operation unit for accepting an operation on the image forming apparatus from an operator or providing information such as the state of the apparatus to the operator.

  Reference numeral 5503 denotes an I / O unit for the operation unit 5502 to communicate with the main controller unit 5501. Reference numeral 5504 denotes a liquid crystal panel for providing information to an operator and displaying a switch generated in software. Reference numeral 5505 denotes a touch panel unit for detecting an operation of a soft switch displayed on the liquid crystal panel unit 5504. Reference numeral 5506 denotes a switch unit, which is physically arranged to receive an operation from the operator.

  An HDD unit 5007 stores print data and programs and is used as a data cache area. An image memory unit 5508 is used for developing or processing a print image.

  Reference numeral 5509 denotes an expansion bus, which is used for the purpose of function expansion to the image forming apparatus. Reference numeral 5510 denotes a NIC (Network Interface Card) unit which is added to the image forming apparatus using an expansion bus 5509. Reference numeral 5511 denotes a LAN controller that monitors communication packets that flow on the LAN, receives data packets related to the image forming apparatus, and controls to transmit data packets generated by the image forming apparatus to the LAN. Control. A transformer unit 5512 performs voltage conversion and realizes physical communication between the image forming apparatus and the LAN.

  Reference numeral 5513 denotes a printing unit for printing an image on paper as a recording medium. An output processing unit 5514 performs image processing such as gamma conversion, edge enhancement, and smoothing in order to correct the image data sent from the main controller unit 5501 to data suitable for printing on paper.

  Reference numeral 5515 denotes a PWM unit for converting the image data after output processing into a signal for driving a laser beam. Reference numeral 5516 denotes a printer unit for printing an image on paper based on a signal supplied by a laser beam.

  A paper discharge unit 5517 discharges printed paper created by the printing unit 5513 to the outside of the image forming apparatus. Reference numeral 5518 denotes an I / O unit for the paper discharge unit 5517 to communicate with the main controller unit 5501. Reference numeral 5519 denotes a controller unit that controls the sheet discharge unit 5517.

  Reference numeral 5520 denotes a paper sensor unit for monitoring the flow of paper passing through the paper discharge unit 5517. Reference numeral 5521 denotes a paper feed motor driving unit which drives a motor for delivering paper. Reference numeral 5522 denotes a tray motor driving unit for driving the paper discharge tray. Reference numeral 5523 denotes a paper path control unit for controlling the flow of paper.

  Reference numeral 5524 denotes a FAX unit which is added to the image forming apparatus using an expansion bus 5509. Reference numeral 5525 denotes a memory unit that temporarily stores data to be transmitted and received by the FAX unit. A compression unit 5526 performs compression processing on transmission data when performing FAX transmission.

  Reference numeral 5527 denotes an expansion unit for performing expansion processing on received data when performing FAX reception. A modulation unit 5528 is used to perform D / A conversion and modulation processing of transmission data when performing FAX transmission. Reference numeral 5529 denotes a demodulator for demodulating received data and A / D conversion when performing FAX reception. An NCU unit 5530 includes a voltage conversion circuit, a surge protection circuit, and the like for connecting a modem unit (part constituted by the modulation unit 5528 and the demodulation unit 5529) and a public telephone line.

  Reference numeral 5531 denotes a scanner unit for reading a copy original. Reference numeral 5532 denotes an image sensor unit for converting an optical signal into an electric signal. Reference numeral 5533 denotes an A / D conversion unit for performing gain adjustment, offset adjustment, and A / D conversion of an input signal. Reference numeral 5534 denotes a shading unit for performing known shading correction using a reference white plate reading signal.

  In this embodiment, job data (also referred to as image data) input from the scanner unit of the own device is mainly printed by the local copy mode through the image memory unit of the own device and printed by the own device. A remote copy mode in which job data (also referred to as image data) input from the scanner unit of the apparatus is printed by a printing unit of another apparatus, or job data input from an external apparatus such as a host computer or a destination facsimile apparatus is stored in the memory unit. The external print mode to be printed by the printing unit via the printer, the job data output from the scanner unit of the own device and / or the scanner unit of the external device is provided in the box of the memory unit (provided for each user in the hard disk) Input in the box mode that is temporarily stored in the recording area) or by the scanner section of the device itself The case of an information transmission apparatus as a so-called multi-function apparatus having a plurality of operation modes such as a transmission mode for transmitting job data to an external apparatus will be described. Among these operation modes, the present invention can also be applied to a so-called single function information processing apparatus (also referred to as single function peripheral: SFP) having at least a copy mode.

  In addition, regarding the configuration of the apparatus, in the present embodiment, a case where the scanner unit and the printing unit are a so-called integrated apparatus will be described. However, each unit disclosed in the present embodiment may be individually or partially separated. The so-called separate apparatus can also be applied.

  2 is a cross-sectional view showing the mechanical structure of the scanner unit 5531, the printing unit 5513, and the paper discharge unit 5517 shown in FIG.

  In a scanner unit 5531 shown in FIG. 2, reference numeral 201 denotes a document feeder, which feeds documents placed on a document feeding table one by one from the last page onto the platen glass 202, and after the document reading operation is completed. The document on the platen glass 202 is discharged. Note that a sensor (not shown) is provided on the document feeder of the document feeder 201, and can detect that a document is placed.

  When the document is conveyed onto the platen glass 202, the lamp 203 is turned on, and the movement of the scanner unit 204 is started to expose and scan the document. Reflected light from the original at this time is guided to a CCD image sensor (hereinafter referred to as CCD) 209 by mirrors 205, 206, 207 and a lens 208.

  The image of the original scanned in this way is read by the CCD 209. The image data input to the image sensor unit 5532 in this way is sent to the A / D conversion unit 5533, where gain adjustment and offset adjustment are performed, and then converted into an 8-bit digital signal by the A / D converter. It is converted and sent to the shading unit 5534. The shading unit 5534 performs known shading correction using the reading signal of the reference white plate, and sends it to the main controller unit 5501.

  The main controller unit 5501 sends this image data to the printing unit 5513 to prompt printing processing.

  The image data input to the output processing unit 5514 of the printing unit 5513 is subjected to gamma correction, sharpness processing, and smoothing processing for conversion into density data in consideration of various characteristics of toner density, and is sent to the PWM unit 5515. . The PWM unit 5515 generates a laser drive signal that is an analog signal based on the input digital signal.

  The laser drive signal drives the laser light emitting unit 210, and laser light corresponding to this signal is emitted from the laser light emitting unit 210. The laser beam is irradiated onto the photosensitive drum 211, and a latent image corresponding to the laser beam is formed on the photosensitive drum 211.

  A developer is attached to the latent image portion of the photosensitive drum 211 by a developing device. Then, at the timing synchronized with the start of laser light irradiation, the recording paper is fed from one of the cassettes 213 and 214 and conveyed to the transfer unit 215, and the developer attached to the photosensitive drum 211 is transferred to the recording paper. . The recording paper on which the developer is placed is conveyed to the fixing unit 216, and the developer is fixed to the recording paper by the heat and pressure of the fixing unit 216.

  The recording paper that has passed through the fixing unit 216 is discharged to a paper discharge unit 5517 by a discharge roller 217.

  If double-sided recording is set, the recording paper is conveyed to the discharge roller 217, and then the rotation direction of the discharge roller 217 is reversed and guided to the refeed conveyance path by the flapper 218. When multiple recording is set, the recording paper is guided to the refeed conveyance path by the flapper 218 so as not to be conveyed to the discharge roller 217. The recording sheet guided to the refeed conveyance path is fed to the transfer unit 215 at the timing described above.

  In the paper discharge unit 5517, a sorter 219, which is a paper discharge unit, stores the recording paper discharged from the printing unit 5513 in each bin and sorts the recording paper.

  The sorter 219 stores the recording paper in the uppermost bin when the sorting is not set.

The series of processing procedures in the normal copy operation has been described above.

  Note that FIG. 2 illustrates an example in which the printer unit 5513 is a laser beam method, but an electrophotographic method (for example, an LED method) other than the laser beam method may also be a liquid crystal shutter method, an inkjet method, a thermal transfer method, a sublimation. The present invention can be applied to any other method or printing method.

  FIG. 3 is a plan view showing the configuration of the operation unit 5502 shown in FIG.

  3, 3001 is an operation panel, 3002 is a liquid crystal panel (included in the liquid crystal panel portion 5504 shown in FIG. 1), which is a display unit disposed on the operation panel 3001, and on the liquid crystal panel 3002. Is provided with a touch panel (included in the touch panel portion 5505 shown in FIG. 1), and is used to detect an operation of a soft switch displayed on the liquid crystal panel 3002.

  Hereinafter, 3003 to 3015 correspond to switches and display units displayed on the liquid crystal panel 3002 in a software manner.

  Reference numeral 3003 denotes a copy function selection switch for selecting a copy function. Reference numeral 3004 denotes a FAX function selection switch for selecting a FAX function. Reference numeral 3005 denotes a box function selection switch for selecting a box function. Reference numeral 3006 denotes an extended function selection switch for using an extended function provided by an optional device or the like.

  A status display unit 3007 displays the current setting state and operation state of the image forming apparatus. Reference numeral 3008 denotes a density setting switch for setting the printing density. Reference numeral 3009 denotes an equal magnification switch for setting the print magnification to the equal magnification. Reference numeral 3010 denotes a magnification switch for setting a printing magnification. Reference numeral 3011 denotes a paper size switch for selecting a paper size.

  Reference numeral 3012 denotes a sorter switch for setting the sort mode of the sorter. Reference numeral 3013 denotes a double-sided switch for setting a double-sided printing mode. An application mode switch 3014 is used to select an application function that can be used for copying. A system status / cancel switch 3015 is used to check the system status and use a function to cancel printing.

  Hereinafter, 3016 to 3024 correspond to switches physically arranged on the operation panel 3001, and are included in the switch unit 5506 shown in FIG.

  Reference numeral 3016 denotes a reset switch for initializing settings. Reference numeral 3017 denotes a power saving switch for setting / canceling the power saving mode. Reference numeral 3018 denotes a start switch for instructing the start of copying or the start of FAX transmission.

  Reference numeral 3019 denotes a stop switch for stopping a copy operation or the like. Reference numeral 3020 denotes a numeric keypad that is used for inputting a FAX number, the number of copies, and the like. Reference numeral 3021 denotes a clear key, which is used to cancel an input number or character. Reference numeral 3022 denotes an ID key which is used when setting an ID number. A guide key 3023 is used to display an operation guide on the liquid crystal panel 3002. A user mode key 3024 is used when setting the specifications of the image forming apparatus.

  When an operator performs any operation on the image forming apparatus, it is necessary to first select which function to use from a plurality of functions. If the operator wants to use the copy function, the operator presses the copy function selection switch 3003 displayed on the liquid crystal panel 3002.

Then, a screen as shown in FIG. 3 is displayed on the liquid crystal panel 3002, and a user interface necessary for using the copy function is displayed. Similarly, when the user wants to use the FAX function, the user presses the FAX function selection switch 3004. When the user wants to use the box function, the user presses the box function selection switch 3005. When the user wants to use the extended function, the user presses the extended function selection switch 3006. A user interface displayed on the screen 3002 is used.

  Next, a method of using an operation history provided as one function in the application mode will be described below.

  When the application mode switch 3014 is pressed, an application mode detail setting screen 3101 shown in FIG. 4 is popped up on the liquid crystal panel 3002 under the control of the main controller unit 5501.

  FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an application mode detailed setting screen pop-up displayed on the liquid crystal panel 3002 shown in FIG. 3, and the same components as those in FIG. 3 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  In FIG. 4, reference numeral 3101 denotes an application mode detail setting screen, which has an operation history switch 3102. In order to use the operation history, it is necessary to press the operation history switch 3102. A switch 3103 is a switch for closing the application mode detailed setting screen 3101 displayed as a pop-up.

  When the operation history switch 3102 is pressed (touched), the operation history detail setting screen 101 shown in FIG. 5 is popped up on the liquid crystal panel 3002 under the control of the main controller 5501 shown in FIG.

  FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of an operation history detail setting screen pop-up displayed on the liquid crystal panel 3002 shown in FIG. 3, and the same components as those in FIG. 3 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  In FIG. 5, reference numeral 102 denotes a display of the user ID of the operator who is currently personally authenticated, which is displayed on the right side of the title display “operation history detail setting screen”, and corresponds to “USER ID: 0123” in the example of FIG. .

  Reference numeral 103 denotes an entire history switch for setting the operation history of the entire apparatus as a usage target (that is, setting the history mode to the entire history mode). Reference numeral 104 denotes a personal history switch for setting only an operation history of an individual who is currently personally authenticated as a usage target (that is, for setting the history mode to the personal history mode). Reference numeral 105 denotes a history information display screen for displaying setting information set when a copy operation has been performed in the past. The operation date and time, image quality, drawing method, printing speed, finishing process, and paper feed process are displayed. , And setting information regarding any one or a plurality of image forming processes of the paper discharge process.

  If personal authentication has already been performed at the time of display of the operation history detail setting screen 101, the personal history is set in the operation history. If personal authentication has not been performed yet, the entire history is stored in the operation history. It is set and can be switched by the entire history switch 103 and the personal history switch 104.

  When the entire history is displayed on the history information display screen 105 (in the case of the entire history mode), an operation user name indicating which user has operated is displayed on the history information display screen 105. You may do it.

  An operation history selection UI 106 is for specifying one operation history from a plurality of operation histories. Reference numeral 107 denotes a cancel switch for canceling the operation performed on the operation history detail setting screen 101 and closing this screen.

  Reference numeral 108 denotes an OK switch for reflecting the setting information displayed on the history information display screen 105 on the operation screen shown in FIG. 3 and closing the operation history detail setting screen 101. Thus, the main controller unit 5501 displays setting information based on the operation history selected on the operation history detail setting screen 101 on the operation screen shown in FIG. Reference numeral 109 denotes a control UI for setting whether to enable or disable a function (explicit function) that clearly indicates an unusable operation history to the operator.

  When the personal history switch 104 is pressed (touched), the personal authentication screen 401 shown in FIG. 6 is popped up on the liquid crystal panel 3002 under the control of the main controller 5501 shown in FIG.

  When the authenticated user designates a specific operation history in the operation history of the authenticated user or all the operation history of the authenticated user, and instructs a history deletion button (not shown), the main controller unit that detects this 5501 controls deletion of the designated history information from the HDD unit 5507. As a result, the personal history can be arranged as necessary, or the entire personal history can be deleted and returned to the initial state.

  Further, the priority order may be set so that a predetermined operation history is displayed with priority.

  Furthermore, it may be configured to be able to store a predetermined operation history with a user's desired name.

  In addition, when an authenticated administrator designates a specific operation history or all operation history in the entire operation history and designates a history deletion button (not shown), the main controller unit 5501 that has detected this designates the designated operation history. The history information is controlled to be deleted from the HDD unit 5507. As a result, each individual history and unauthenticated operation history can be organized as necessary, or all operation histories can be returned to the initial state.

  Further, each time the operation history is reused, the reuse frequency of each operation history is stored in the HDD unit 5507, and the main controller unit 5501 makes each operation history in a predetermined cycle (for example, one month cycle). Each operation history may be deleted based on the reuse frequency. That is, an operation history having a reuse frequency lower than a predetermined threshold or an operation history that has not been reused for a predetermined period may be deleted.

  FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a personal authentication screen pop-up displayed on the liquid crystal panel 3002 shown in FIG. 3, and the same components as those in FIG. 3 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  In FIG. 6, reference numeral 402 denotes a personal ID switch for setting a personal ID input mode. By pressing the personal ID switch 402, a personal ID is input to the personal ID input unit 404 using the numeric keypad 3020. It becomes possible to do.

  A password switch 403 is used to set a password input mode. By pressing the password switch 403, a password can be input to the password input unit 405 using the numeric keypad 3020.

  A switch 406 is a switch for closing the personal authentication screen 401 displayed as a pop-up.

  This personal authentication screen 401 is also displayed in a pop-up even when a copy original is set on the original feeder of the original feeder 201 by the operator or when the ID switch 3022 is pressed by the operator.

  In the above configuration, a series of processing procedures in a normal copy operation will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation procedure and a processing procedure when a copy operation is performed using the image forming apparatus of the present invention. Note that S301 to S315 indicate steps, and in particular, steps S301 to S313 correspond to the operation procedure of the operator, and steps S314 and S315 are performed by the main controller unit 5501 shown in FIG. The program is executed based on a program stored in the ROM or other recording medium.

  When performing a copying operation using the image forming apparatus of the present invention, an operator needs to set a copy document on the document feeder 201 or on the platen glass 202. Will be described.

  When an operator first sets a copy document on the document feed table of the document feeder 201, a set of copy documents is detected by a document detection sensor (not shown) provided in the document feeder 201. This information is stored in the main controller. To 5501.

  When the main controller 5501 detects the setting of the copy document (S301), the main controller 5501 communicates with the I / O unit 5503 of the operation unit 5502 to display the personal authentication screen 401 shown in FIG. 6 on the liquid crystal panel unit 5504. To order. This personal authentication screen 401 is displayed on a liquid crystal panel 3002 arranged on the operation panel 3001 and can be viewed by an operator. On the other hand, when a copy original is set on the platen glass 202, the automatic detection of the copy original is not performed. Therefore, the operator depresses the ID switch 3022 and intentionally displays the personal authentication screen 401 on the liquid crystal panel 3002. It is also possible to make it.

  When this personal authentication screen 401 is displayed, the normal operator depresses the personal ID switch 402 (S302), sets the personal ID input mode, and then uses the numeric keypad 3020 to enter the personal ID to the personal ID input unit 404. Input (S303). Subsequently, the password switch 403 is pressed (S304) to set the password input mode, and then the password is input to the password input unit 405 using the numeric keypad 3020 (S305). However, if the operator does not want to perform personal authentication, or if the personal authentication ID is not provided by the administrator of the image forming apparatus, the personal authentication is performed by pressing the close switch 406 without entering the personal ID and password. It is possible to skip. However, in this case, the operator cannot receive some services that can be enjoyed by personal authentication.

  When a personal ID and password are input by the operator according to a normal flow, the operator subsequently presses the close switch 406 to confirm the input.

  The pressing of the switch displayed on the liquid crystal panel 3002 in software is detected by the touch panel unit 5505 and transmitted to the main controller unit 5501 through the I / O unit 5503. The main controller unit 5501 controls the setting to the personal ID input mode and the password input mode according to the input information of the personal ID switch 402 and the password switch 403 transmitted from the touch panel unit 5505.

  Further, the main controller unit 5501 acquires the input personal ID and password according to the input information (information on pressing the close switch 406) transmitted from the touch panel unit 5505, and the HDD unit 5507 shown in FIG. It collates with a user ID table 501 (shown in FIG. 8 described later) stored in a non-volatile memory (not shown) or the like.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a user ID table stored in the HDD unit 5507 (or a non-volatile memory not shown) or the like for storing user authentication information in the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment.

  The main controller 5501 checks whether or not the input personal ID and password are valid based on the information in the user ID table 501, and if it is determined to be correct, the main controller 5501 displays the personal authentication screen 401. The copy operation screen shown in FIG. 3 is displayed on the liquid crystal panel 3002.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the personal ID and password are invalid, the main controller 5501 displays the personal ID screen 401 without closing in order to request the personal ID to be input again. However, if the operator does not want personal authentication for some reason, the personal authentication screen 401 can be forcibly closed by pressing the ID switch 3022 or the reset switch 3016.

  When the copy operation screen shown in FIG. 3 is displayed on the liquid crystal panel 3002, the operator performs operations in steps S306 to S312 described below as necessary to make various settings for performing the copy operation.

  When it is necessary to change the copy magnification, the copy magnification is set by operating the equal magnification switch 3009 and the magnification switch 3010 (S306). When the magnification switch 3010 is pressed, the main controller unit 5501 that detects this displays a detailed setting screen for setting the magnification on the liquid crystal panel 3002, but the description of the screen is omitted here.

  Similarly, if it is necessary to change the paper size, the user presses the paper size switch 3011 to display the detailed setting screen, and then selects the paper size (S307). If it is necessary to change the number of copies to be printed, the numeric keypad 3020 is pressed to set the number of copies to be printed (S308). If it is necessary to change the sorting method, the sorter switch 3012 is pressed to display the detailed setting screen, and then the sorting method is selected (S309). If it is necessary to change the duplex mode, the duplex switch S3013 is pressed to display the detailed setting screen, and then the duplex mode is selected (S310). If it is necessary to change the density, the density setting switch 3008 is operated to set the density (S311). When the application mode is desired to be used, the application mode switch 3014 is pressed to display the detailed setting screen, and then each application mode is set (S312).

  As described above, when preparation for starting copying is completed by the operation described above, the operator presses the start switch 3018 and commands the image forming apparatus to start copying (S313). The depression of the start switch 3018 is detected by the switch unit 5506 of the operation unit 5502 and is transmitted to the main controller unit 5501 via the I / O unit 5503.

  Then, the main controller unit 5501 performs processing for storing the operation history in an operation history table (shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 described later) at the timing when the pressing of the start switch 3018 is detected (S314).

  FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a personal operation history storage table stored in the HDD unit 5507 (or a non-volatile memory not shown) or the like in order to store the operation history of each individual who has been personally authenticated.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the personal operation history storage table is provided for each user.

  If the authentication of the individual who is currently operating the image forming apparatus is completed by the operation procedure of steps S302 to S305, the current copy operation is performed to the personal operation history storage table provided for the individual. Stores the setting items set in.

  In FIG. 9, in addition to the operation history number and the operation date and time, the setting information to be stored is described by taking the magnification, the paper size, and the number of copies as examples. Needless to say, all setting items relating to the copying operation, such as finishing processing, paper feed processing, paper discharge processing, etc., can be stored and used later. In this embodiment, the copy operation is referred to. However, all setting items related to the FAX function, the print function, the box (data server) function, the scanner function, the data transmission function, and the like that the digital multi-function peripheral can have are also used as the operation history. It goes without saying that you can remember it and reuse it later.

  FIG. 10 shows a non-authentication operation history storage table stored in the HDD unit 5507 (or non-volatile memory not shown) or the like in order to store an operation history (non-authentication operation history) related to an operation that has not been personally authenticated. FIG.

  All operation histories from operators who have not been personally authenticated are stored in the unauthenticated operation history storage table shown in FIG.

  When the process of storing the operation history in the operation history table (S314) is completed, the copy process described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 is executed under the control of the main controller unit 5501 (S315).

  Next, a series of processing procedures in the copy operation using the operation history of the present invention will be described.

  The operation history can be used by pressing the application mode switch 3014 at the timing of step S312 shown in FIG. When the application mode switch 3014 is pressed, an application mode detail setting screen 3101 is popped up on the liquid crystal panel 3002, and the operation history switch 3102 can be operated.

  When the operation history switch 3102 is pressed, the operation history detail setting screen 101 of the present invention shown in FIG. 5 is popped up on the liquid crystal panel 3002, and the operation history can be used.

  The processing procedure of the copy function when the operation history is used in the image forming apparatus of the present invention will be described below with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

  FIGS. 11 and 12 are flowcharts showing an example of the first control processing procedure in the present invention. The main controller unit 5501 shown in FIG. 1 uses the HDD unit or the ROM or other recording medium in the main controller unit 5501. It is executed based on the stored program. Note that S801 to S815 in FIG. 11 and S1401 to S1407 in FIG.

  When the main controller unit 5501 shown in FIG. 1 detects that the operation history switch 3102 on the application mode screen 3101 shown in FIG. 4 has been pressed, the main controller unit 5501 starts processing of the flowchart shown in FIG. Before the operation history detail setting screen 101 shown in FIG. 5 is displayed, it is determined whether or not the current operation is performed by a personally authenticated operator (S801).

  In step S801, if the main controller unit 5501 determines that personal authentication has been completed, the main controller unit 5501 determines that the authentication has been completed from the personal operation history storage table (FIG. 9) of the HDD unit 5507 illustrated in FIG. The operation history information corresponding to the user ID is read (S802), and display processing for displaying the latest operation history information on the history information display screen 105 from the acquired operation history information is performed (S803).

  The display process performed in step S803 will be described in more detail using the flowchart of FIG.

  In the display process in step S803, as shown in FIG. 12, the main controller unit 5501 first sets a control for setting whether to enable or disable the function of clearly indicating an unusable operation history to the operator. By checking the setting of the UI 109, it is determined whether the explicit function is valid / invalid (S1401). If the main controller unit 5501 determines that the explicit function is enabled, the current image forming apparatus continues. The status is acquired (S1402), and it is determined whether or not there is a setting item that cannot be used by the image forming apparatus in the setting information of the operation history to be displayed (S1403).

  In step S1403, if the main controller unit 5501 determines that there are no setting items that are currently unavailable, the main controller unit 5501 normally displays the operation history setting information corresponding to the history information display screen 105 (S1404). The corresponding operation history number is normally displayed (S1405).

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1403 that there is a setting item that is not currently available, the main controller unit 5501 displays the setting information of the operation history corresponding to the history information display screen 105 and at the same time cannot be used currently. For such setting items, the setting items that cannot be reused are displayed to the operator by displaying them in grayout (or blinking, inversion, etc.) (S1406).

  Subsequently, the main controller unit 5501 displays the corresponding operation history number in a grayed out (or blinking, inversion, etc.) manner (S1407), and the operation history stored in this operation history number is not available to the operator. The OK switch 108 is grayed out to prevent an unusable operation history from being selected so that it is possible and the operator cannot select this operation history number. More specifically, for example, as shown in FIG. 13, the copy operation history “01” using the A4 sheet on the operation history detailed setting screen 102 is currently formed in the image formation in the investigation in step S1403. If it is found that the apparatus cannot be used because A4 paper is not contained in the apparatus, the portion of the paper size information displayed on the history information display screen 105 that is displayed as “A4” is grayed out, and the operation history selection UI 106 is displayed. The number to be displayed and the OK switch 108 are grayed out, and the display is controlled so that it cannot be selected. As a result, it is possible to reliably prevent the operator from making settings using the operation history “01” that is not currently available.

  The description returns to S1401 in FIG.

  If the main controller 5501 determines in step 1401 that the function of clearly indicating an unusable operation history to the operator is disabled, the main controller unit 5501 branches to step S1404 as it is. Instead, as described above, the setting information and the history number are normally displayed (S1404, S1405).

  The description returns to step S803 in FIG.

  In the case of the display process in step S803 in FIG. 11, the numerical value displayed on the operation history selection UI 106 is set to “01”, indicating that the latest operation history is displayed. However, if there is no personally authenticated operator operation history (the authenticated individual operates the image forming apparatus for the first time), the numerical value displayed on the operation history selection UI 106 is “00” or blank display. The history information display screen 105 preferably displays a blank or a message notifying that there is no operation history.

  In step S801, if the main controller unit 5501 determines that the operation is performed by an unauthenticated user who has not performed personal authentication, all the users are stored in the personal operation history storage table (FIG. 9) of the HDD unit 5507. 10 and the unauthenticated operation history storage table (FIG. 10) are read out (S804), all the acquired operation history information is merged and sorted in order of time stamp, and the latest operation history information is displayed as history information. Display processing to be displayed on the screen 105 is performed (S805).

  At this time, the display process performed in step S805 is the same as that in step SS803, and since it has already been described using the flowchart of FIG. 12, the description thereof is omitted here.

  In the case of the display process in step S805, as in step S803, the numerical value displayed on the operation history selection UI 106 is set to “01” to indicate that the latest operation history is displayed. However, when there is no operation history (the image forming apparatus is operated for the first time), the numerical value displayed on the operation history selection UI 106 is “00” or blank display, and the history information display screen 105 is blank or has an operation history. It is desirable to display a message notifying that it does not exist.

  Next, an operation from the operator is waited. In step S806, the main controller unit 5501 determines whether or not the entire history switch 103 is pressed. If it is determined that the entire history switch 103 is pressed, the above-described step S804 is performed. And the process of step S805 is performed. This process is an effective means when, for example, an operator who has been personally authenticated is not limited to the personal operation history but wants to refer to the entire operation history.

  On the other hand, if the main controller unit 5501 determines in step S806 that the overall history switch 103 has not been pressed, the process proceeds to step S807, and the main controller unit 5501 determines whether or not the personal history switch 104 has been pressed. judge.

  If the main controller unit 5501 determines in step S807 that the personal history switch 104 has been pressed, the main controller unit 5501 pops up the personal authentication screen 401 on the liquid crystal panel 3002 (S808), and the operation history of the specific individual is displayed. In order to display the message, the operator is prompted to perform personal authentication. Here, the authentication information is input by the operation of the operator, and the main controller unit 5501 determines whether or not the personal authentication is successful (S809).

  If the main controller unit 5501 determines in step S809 that personal authentication has succeeded, the processing of steps S802 and S803 is executed, and the operation history of the authenticated individual is displayed on the history information display screen 105. Become.

  On the other hand, if the main controller unit 5501 determines in step S809 that personal authentication has not been successful, the process of steps S804 and S805 is executed, and the entire operation history is displayed on the history information display screen 105. .

  If the main controller unit 5501 determines in step S807 that the personal history switch 104 has not been pressed, the process advances to step S810, and the main controller unit 5501 determines whether or not the operation history UI 106 has been operated. (S810).

  If the main controller unit 5501 determines in step S810 that the operation history UI 106 has been operated, the main controller unit 5501 adds and subtracts the displayed numerical value according to the operation of the UP / DOWN switch of the operation history 106. In addition, the operation history corresponding to the operation history number is read out from the personal operation history storage table (FIG. 9) or the entire operation history table (FIG. 10) generated by sorting in step S804, and this operation history is set. Display processing for displaying information is executed (S811). At this time, the display process performed in step S811 is the same as that in steps S803 and S805 and has already been described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the case of the display processing in step S811, the operation history number selected by the operation of the UP / DOWN switch of the operation history UI 106 is displayed on the operation history selection UI 106.

  On the other hand, if the main controller unit 5501 determines in step S810 that the operation history UI 106 has not been operated, the process proceeds to step S812, and the main controller unit 5501 determines whether or not the OK switch 108 has been pressed.

  If the main controller unit 5501 determines in step S812 that the OK switch 108 has been pressed, the main controller unit 5501 sets the setting information currently displayed on the history information display screen 105 in the image forming apparatus. (S813) Subsequently, the operation history detail setting screen 101 is closed (S814), and a series of processing using the operation history is ended.

  On the other hand, if the main controller unit 5501 determines in step S812 that the OK switch 108 has not been pressed, the process proceeds to step S815, and the main controller unit 5501 determines whether or not the cancel switch 107 has been pressed.

  If the main controller unit 5501 determines in step S815 that the cancel switch 107 has been pressed, the process for setting the image forming apparatus is skipped, the operation history detail setting screen 101 is closed (S814), and the operation history is set. A series of processes using is completed.

  On the other hand, if the main controller unit 5501 determines in step S815 that the cancel switch 107 has not been pressed, the main controller unit 5501 returns the processing to the operation standby state from the operator in step S806.

  By the processing described above, the operator can refer to the entire operation history or the personal operation history and reflect the setting information of the copy function set in the past in the image forming apparatus as necessary. When the start switch 3018 is pressed by the operator after this processing, the copy processing in step S315 of FIG. 7 is executed based on the setting information set here.

  The above is the procedure for executing the copy function of the image forming apparatus using the operation history detail setting screen 101 of the present embodiment.

  The personal authentication method in the above embodiment is described as being performed by a user ID (personal ID) and a password using the personal authentication screen 401 described in FIG. 9, but in addition to this, an IC card, It goes without saying that various authentication methods such as authentication by various cards such as an ID card and a memory card, voice authentication, fingerprint authentication, capillary blood vessel authentication, vein pattern authentication, corneal authentication, and face authentication can be used.

  As shown above, the entire operation history is forcibly displayed as before, so that the operation history of other people who are not likely to be reused is actually displayed, and you can find your own operation history Therefore, a desired operation history can be easily selected and set based on the personal history.

  Also, by storing the operation history for each individual and providing an upper limit for the number of history records for each individual, even if the history storage number has reached the upper limit, your history is deleted by the history of others Can be prevented.

  Furthermore, if the past operation stored in the operation history is not available at the time of display of the operation history, the operator is notified based on the operation history that cannot be used. Thus, it is possible to reliably prevent factors that reduce the work efficiency, such as an error at the start of operation and the need for a setting operation again.

  In this embodiment, the local copy mode in which the original data is input from the scanner unit of the own apparatus and the printing process is performed by the printing unit of the own apparatus has been described as an example. However, the personal history and the entire history function described above are reused. Simplifying the setting operation of the image forming apparatus can be applied to any of the facsimile transmission mode, the box mode, and the remote copy mode in which original data is input from the scanner section of the own apparatus and is printed by the printing section of the other apparatus. Needless to say.

[Second Embodiment]
In the first embodiment, the personal history or the entire history stored in the image forming apparatus is called from the operation history detailed setting screen displayed on the operation unit of the image forming apparatus, and the copy function, FAX function, The configuration to be reused for the setting of the box function, etc. has been described, but the personal history or the entire history stored in the image forming apparatus is called from the setting screen of the printer driver operating on the information processing apparatus capable of communicating with the image forming apparatus Thus, the information may be reused for setting the print function of data transmitted from the information processing apparatus. The embodiment will be described below.

  FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a system including an information processing apparatus and an image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  14, 100 is the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. 1, 200 is an information processing apparatus, and the image forming apparatus 100 and the information processing apparatus 200 are connected via a LAN 300. It can operate as a client PC of the forming apparatus 100. The configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 is shown in FIG. Hereinafter, the configuration of the information processing apparatus 200 will be described.

  In FIG. 14, reference numeral 1 denotes a CPU which controls each device connected to the system bus 4 based on a program ROM in the ROM 3 and a program (printer driver program of the image forming apparatus 100) stored in the external storage device 11. Thus, print processing using the image forming apparatus 100 can be executed.

  Further, font data and the like are stored in the font ROM of the ROM 3, and various data are stored in the data ROM of the ROM 3. Reference numeral 2 denotes a RAM which functions as a main memory, work area, and the like for the CPU 1.

  A keyboard controller (KBC) 5 controls input from a keyboard (KB) 9 or a pointing device (not shown) such as a mouse. Reference numeral 6 denotes a video controller (VC) which controls display on the monitor 10.

  A memory controller (MC) 7 controls access to the external storage device 11. The external storage device 11 includes, for example, a hard disk (HD), a flexible disk (FD), a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, and the like.

  A network interface card (NIC) 8 controls communication with a network such as the Internet via the LAN 300 using a predetermined protocol.

  FIGS. 15 and 16 are schematic views showing an example of a UI screen display of the printer driver executed on the information processing apparatus 200 shown in FIG. 14, and are displayed on the monitor 10.

  15 and 16, 900 is a printer driver UI screen, FIG. 15 corresponds to a page setting screen UI, and FIG. 16 corresponds to a user ID / operation setting history screen UI. The code | symbol is attached | subjected.

  First, the page setting screen UI of FIG. 15 will be described.

  In FIG. 15, reference numeral 901 denotes a page setting tab for setting a page configuration such as a paper size and a printing direction. A finishing tab 902 is used to make settings related to printing finishing.

  Reference numeral 903 denotes a paper feed tab for making settings relating to paper feed. A print quality tab 904 is used to make settings related to print quality. A user ID / operation history tab 905 is used to set a user ID and operate an operation history. When the user ID / operation history tab 905 is selected, the CPU 1 changes the UI screen display of the printer driver displayed on the monitor 10 from the page setting screen UI shown in FIG. 15 to the user ID / operation setting shown in FIG. Switch to the history screen UI and control the display.

  Reference numeral 907 denotes a favorite setting UI, in which settings frequently used by the user are registered in advance, and the settings can be changed with a simple operation. Reference numeral 908 denotes an addition switch for adding a new setting to a favorite. Reference numeral 909 denotes an editing switch for changing the setting contents registered in the favorites.

  910 is a printer driver operation mode setting UI, 911 is an original size setting UI, 912 is an output paper size setting UI, 913 is a copy setting UI, and 914 is a print orientation setting UI.

  915 is a page layout setting UI, 916 is an arrangement order setting UI, 917 is a stamp print control UI, and 918 is a stamp data selection UI. Reference numeral 919 denotes a stamp editing switch for editing stamp data.

  Reference numeral 920 denotes a preview screen for visually representing the current setting. Reference numeral 921 denotes a setting confirmation switch for confirming settings in a list. A page option switch 922 is for setting page options such as date and page number. Reference numeral 923 denotes a switch for returning to the standard, which initializes various settings to the standard settings.

  Reference numeral 924 denotes an OK switch for reflecting the setting information on the printer driver UI screen 900 on the image forming apparatus and then closing the printer driver UI screen 900.

  A cancel switch 925 is used to close the printer driver UI screen 900 without reflecting the setting information on the printer driver UI screen 900 to the image forming apparatus.

Reference numeral 926 denotes a help switch for displaying a setting method explanation screen on the printer driver UI screen 900.

  Since the UI screen of the printer driver varies depending on each setting / selection, FIG. 15 is an example of a UI that can be displayed by the printer driver, and the present invention is not limited to this.

  Next, the user ID / operation setting history screen UI of FIG. 16 will be described.

  In FIG. 16, reference numeral 1001 denotes a user ID control UI for controlling whether or not the user ID set on the user ID / operation setting history screen UI is used for printing.

  A user ID input UI 1002 and a password input UI 1003 are for inputting a user ID and password to the image forming apparatus 100. Reference numeral 1004 denotes an operation history switch for displaying the printer driver operation history detail setting screen shown in FIG. When the operation history switch 1004 is instructed, the CPU 1 causes the monitor 10 to display a printer driver operation history detailed setting screen shown in FIG.

  FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a printer driver operation history detail setting screen executed on the information processing apparatus 200 illustrated in FIG. 14, and is displayed on the monitor 10 when the operation history switch 1004 is instructed. The

  In FIG. 17, reference numeral 1100 denotes a printer driver operation history detail setting screen. Reference numeral 1101 denotes a printer driver history information display screen, which includes operation date and time and setting information related to one or a plurality of image forming processes of image quality, drawing method, printing speed, finishing process, paper feed process, and paper discharge process. Display information.

  Reference numeral 1102 denotes a personal operation history selection UI for instructing display of a personal operation history (that is, for setting the history mode to the personal history mode). Reference numeral 1103 denotes an overall operation history selection UI for instructing display of the overall operation history (that is, for setting the history mode to the overall history mode).

  When the entire history is displayed on the printer driver operation history detail setting screen 1101 (in the entire history mode), the operation user name indicating which user has operated is also displayed in the printer driver operation history information. It may be displayed on the display screen 1101.

  A printer driver operation history selection UI 1104 is used to select one from past operation histories. Reference numeral 1105 denotes a control UI for setting whether to enable or disable a function for clearly indicating an unusable operation history to the operator.

  If personal authentication has already been performed when the printer driver operation history detailed setting screen 1100 is displayed, the personal history is set in the operation history. If personal authentication has not yet been performed, the entire operation history is displayed in the operation history. A history is set and can be switched by an overall operation history switch 1103 and an individual operation history switch 1102.

  Further, when the entire history is displayed on the printer driver operation history information display screen 1101, an operation user name indicating which user has operated is displayed on the printer driver operation history information display screen 1101. It may be.

  A page setting tab 1106 is used to display page configuration settings such as the paper size and printing direction in the selected operation history on the printer driver history information display screen 1101. A finishing tab 1107 is used to display settings related to printing finishing in the selected operation history on the printer driver history information display screen 1101. Reference numeral 1108 denotes a paper feed tab for displaying settings relating to paper feed in the selected operation history on the printer driver history information display screen 1101. A print quality tab 904 is used to display settings related to print quality in the selected operation history on the printer driver history information display screen 1101.

  Reference numeral 1110 denotes an OK switch, which reflects the setting information corresponding to the operation history selected on the printer driver operation history detailed setting screen 1100 on the printer driver UI screen 900 shown in FIG. This is for closing the screen 1100.

  Reference numeral 1111 denotes a cancel switch for closing the printer driver operation history detailed setting screen 1100 without reflecting the setting information corresponding to the operation history selected on the printer driver operation history detailed setting screen 1100 to the image forming apparatus. It is.

  Reference numeral 1112 denotes a help switch for displaying a printer driver operation history detailed setting screen 1100 operation method explanation screen.

  A procedure for executing the printing function of the image forming apparatus using the printer driver operation history detail setting screen of the present embodiment using the printer driver screens of FIGS. 15 to 17 described above and the flowcharts of FIGS. 18 and 19. Is described below.

  FIGS. 18 and 19 are flowcharts showing an example of the second control processing procedure in the present invention. The program stored in the external storage device 11 or other recording medium by the CPU 1 of the information processing apparatus 200 shown in FIG. It is executed based on. Note that S1201 to S1218 in FIG. 18 and S1501 to S1507 in FIG.

  First, when the CPU 1 detects that the operator has instructed activation of the printer driver on the information processing apparatus 200 as a print client, the CPU 1 activates the printer driver (S1201).

  When the printer driver is activated, the CPU 1 first sets the user ID control UI 1001 provided in the user ID / operation history tab 905 shown in FIG. 16 to be valid, and sets the user ID input UI 1002 and the password input UI 1003 in the user ID control UI 1003. It is determined whether or not the user ID is valid by checking whether or not some value is set (S1202). If the CPU 1 determines that the user ID is valid, the CPU 1 communicates with the image forming apparatus 100 based on the user ID and password set in the user ID input UI 1002 and the password input UI 1003 to perform user authentication (S1203). The process proceeds to step S1204. More specifically, the user ID, password, and authentication request set in the user ID input UI 1002 and password input UI 1003 are transmitted to the image forming apparatus 100 to make an authentication request to the image forming apparatus. Then, the image forming apparatus 100 performs authentication processing by comparing the user ID and password received from the information processing apparatus 200 with the user ID table 501 illustrated in FIG. 8, and returns the authentication processing result to the information processing apparatus 200. The information processing apparatus 200 receives the authentication result from the image forming apparatus 100, and the CPU 1 determines whether or not there is authentication.

  On the other hand, if the CPU 1 determines in step S1202 that the user ID is not valid, the user authentication in step S1203 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S1204.

  Subsequently, the printer driver (CPU 1) communicates with the image forming apparatus 100, and all user operation histories and unauthenticated operations stored in the personal operation history storage table (FIG. 9) of the HDD unit 5507 of the image forming apparatus 100. An unauthenticated operation history stored in the history storage table (FIG. 10) is acquired (S1204), and all acquired operation histories are stored in a storage area (for example, RAM 2) on the client PC (information processing apparatus 200). Store (S1205).

  Further, the printer driver (CPU 1) communicates with the image forming apparatus 100 to acquire the current state of the image forming apparatus 100 (the information processing apparatus 200 requests the image forming apparatus 100, and the requested image forming apparatus 100 The status is returned to the information processing apparatus 200) and stored in a storage area (for example, RAM 2) on the client PC (information processing apparatus 200) (S1219). The state information of the image forming apparatus 100 stored at this time includes error occurrence status of the image forming apparatus 100, configuration information according to options of the image forming apparatus 100, size and remaining amount information regarding the paper supply medium, and the like. .

  Subsequently, the printer driver (CPU 1) displays a printer driver UI screen as shown in FIG. 15 on the monitor 10 and waits for an operation from the operator. If the operator is confused about the UI operation, the help switch 926 can be pressed to display a pop-up guidance related to the operation.

If the operator wants to set a user ID or the like, the user ID / operation history tab 905 is selected and the printer driver screen shown in FIG. 16 is displayed. Subsequently, the operator inputs the user ID into the user ID input UI 1002, and after inputting the password into the password input UI 1003 if necessary, checks the user ID control UI 1001 and presses the OK switch 924 to enable the use of the user ID. You can do it. When the operator performs this operation, as described above, the printer driver makes an inquiry to the image forming apparatus 100 to perform user authentication. If the authentication is correctly performed, the printer driver can enjoy a service provided only to the user authenticated by the user. become able to.

  When the operator wants to set the printer driver using the printer driver operation history, the printer driver operation history switch 1004 is pressed to display the printer driver operation history detailed setting screen 1100 shown in FIG. This can be realized by operating the screen.

The printer driver (CPU 1) waits for an operation from the operator. In step S1206, the printer driver (CPU 1) determines whether or not the entire operation history selection UI 1103 has been pressed. All operation histories are read out, merged, sorted in the order of time stamps (corresponding to the operation date and time of each operation history storage table) (S1207), and the latest operation history information is displayed on the printer driver history information display screen 1101 Processing is performed (S1208).

  The display process performed in step S1208 will be described in more detail using the flowchart of FIG.

  In the display processing in step S1208, the CPU 1 first confirms the setting of the control UI 1105 (FIG. 17) for setting whether to enable or disable the function of clearly indicating an unusable operation history to the operator. Thus, whether or not the explicit function is valid is determined (S1501). If the CPU 1 determines that the explicit function is valid, the state of the image forming apparatus 100 stored in step S1219 is read from the storage area described above (S1502). It is determined whether there is a setting item that cannot be used by the image forming apparatus 100 in the setting information of the operation history to be displayed (S1503).

  If the CPU 1 determines in step S1503 that there are no setting items that are currently unavailable, the process advances to step S1504.

  The CPU 1 normally displays operation history setting information corresponding to the printer driver history information display screen 1101 (S1504), and then normally displays the corresponding operation history number (S1505).

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1503 that there is a setting item that is not currently available, the CPU 1 displays the operation history setting information corresponding to the printer driver history information display screen 1101, and at the same time is currently unavailable. For the setting items, the setting items that cannot be reused are clearly indicated to the operator by displaying them in grayout (or blinking, inversion, etc.) (S1506).

  Subsequently, the CPU 1 also displays the operation history number corresponding to the currently unavailable setting item in gray out (or blinking, inversion, etc.) (S1507), and is currently stored in the operation history number for the operator. The OK switch 1110 is grayed out to prevent the unusable operation history from being selected so that the operation history is unusable and the operator cannot select this operation history number. More specifically, for example, as shown in FIG. 20, the operation history “01” of copying using A4 paper is currently in the image forming apparatus in the investigation in step S1503. Therefore, if it is found that it cannot be used, the part displayed as “A4” in the paper size information displayed on the printer driver history information display screen 1101 is grayed out, and the number displayed in the operation history selection UI 1104 and The OK switch 1110 is grayed out, and display control is performed so that it cannot be selected. As a result, it is possible to reliably prevent the operator from making settings using the operation history “01” that is not currently available.

  If the CPU 1 determines in step S1501 that the function for explicitly indicating an unusable operation history to the operator is disabled (the explicit function is not enabled), the CPU 1 branches to step S1504 as it is, Regardless of whether or not it can be used, the setting information and history number are normally displayed as described above (S1504, S1505).

  The description returns to step S1208 in FIG.

  In the case of the display process in step S1208, the numerical value displayed on the operation history selection UI 1104 is set to “01” to indicate that the latest operation history is displayed. However, when there is no personally authenticated operator operation history (the authenticated individual operates the image forming apparatus for the first time), the numerical value displayed on the operation history selection UI 1104 is “00” or blank display. It is desirable that the printer driver history information display screen 1101 displays a message notifying that there is no blank or operation history.

  In step S1208, when the processing for displaying the latest operation history information described above on the printer driver history information display screen 1101 is completed, the process returns to step S1206, and the printer driver (CPU 1) again waits for an operation from the operator.

  On the other hand, if the CPU 1 determines in step S1206 that the overall operation history selection UI 1103 has not been pressed, the CPU 1 determines in step S1209 whether or not the personal operation history selection UI 1102 has been pressed. If it is determined that the operator currently operating the printer driver has already been personally authenticated (S1210), and if it is determined that personal authentication has not been performed, the process returns to step S1202. The personal authentication with the image forming apparatus is performed.

  On the other hand, if the CPU 1 determines in step S1210 that personal authentication has been completed, the CPU 1 selects an operation corresponding to the authenticated user ID from all the operation histories stored in the storage area in step S1205 described above. The history information is read, merged, sorted in the order of time stamps (corresponding to the operation date and time of each operation history storage table) (S1211), and display processing for displaying the latest operation history information on the printer driver history information display screen 1101 is performed. This is performed (S1212).

  At this time, the display process performed in step S1212 is the same as the display process in step S1208, and since it has already been described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 19, the description thereof is omitted here.

  In the case of the display process in step S1212 as well, in the same way as in step S1208, the numerical value displayed on the operation history selection UI 1104 is set to “01” to indicate that the latest operation history is displayed. However, when there is no operation history (the image forming apparatus is operated for the first time), the numerical value displayed on the operation history selection UI 1104 is “00” or blank display, and the printer driver history information display screen 1101 is blank or operation. It is desirable to display a message notifying that there is no history.

  In step S1212, when the process of displaying the latest operation history information on the printer driver history information display screen 1101 is completed, the printer driver (CPU 1) again waits for an operation from the operator.

  If the CPU 1 determines in step S1209 that the personal history is not selected, the process advances to step S1213 to determine whether or not the printer driver operation history UI 1104 has been operated.

  If the CPU 1 determines in step S1213 that the operation history selection UI 1104 of the printer driver has been operated, the numerical value to be displayed is added or subtracted and displayed according to the operation of the UP / DOWN switch of the operation history selection UI 1104. At the same time, a display process for displaying the operation history corresponding to the operation history number on the printer driver history information display screen 1101 is performed (S1214).

  At this time, the display process performed in step S1214 is also the same as the display process in step S1208, and has already been described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the case of the display process in step S1214, the operation history number selected by operating the UP / DOWN switch of the operation history selection UI 1104 is displayed on the operation history selection UI 1104.

  If the CPU 1 determines in step S1213 that the printer driver operation history selection UI 1104 has not been operated, the process advances to step S1215, and the CPU 1 determines whether or not the OK switch 924 has been pressed.

  If the CPU 1 determines in step S1215 that the OK switch 1110 has been pressed, the CPU 1 displays the setting information displayed on the printer driver history information display screen 1101 at this point in time as a printer driver setting area (for example, (Area secured in the RAM 2) (this is reflected in the program operation screen 900 shown in FIG. 15) (S1216), and then the printer driver operation history detail setting screen 1100 shown in FIG. 17 is closed. (S1217), a series of processing using the operation history is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the CPU 1 determines in step S1215 that the OK switch 1110 has not been pressed, the process proceeds to step S1218, where the CPU 1 determines whether or not the cancel switch 1111 has been pressed, and the cancel switch 1111 has been pressed. If it is determined, the process for setting the printer driver (S1216) is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S1217 to close the printer driver operation history detail setting screen 1100 shown in FIG. 17 and use the operation history. The series of processes that have been completed are terminated.

  On the other hand, if the CPU 1 determines in step S1218 that the cancel switch 1111 has not been pressed, the process directly returns to step S1206 to return to an operation standby state from the operator.

  Through the processing described above, the operator can acquire the entire operation history or personal operation history stored in the image forming apparatus and reflect the setting information of the printing function set in the past in the printer driver as necessary. It becomes possible. In the present embodiment, as described above, the setting information used in the past by the printer driver is stored in the operation history storage table (FIGS. 9 and 10) provided on the image forming apparatus side, so that the authentication operator Provides a mechanism for acquiring and reusing operation histories without omission even when operated from a plurality of client PCs (information processing apparatus 200). However, an operation history storage table is provided on the client PC side. Thus, it goes without saying that it is possible to construct a reusable system by acquiring the operation history only from the client PC being operated by the operator.

  Then, after the series of processes described with reference to FIGS. 18 and 19, the OK switch 924 of the printer driver shown in FIG. 15 is pressed, and an OK switch (not shown) is displayed on the print dialog (not shown). When the switch 1 is pressed, the CPU 1 sequentially transmits the setting information and the print command set here to the image forming apparatus, and the image forming apparatus starts the printing process. This print processing procedure will be described below using the flowchart of FIG.

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of a third control processing procedure according to the present invention, and corresponds to the processing of the image forming apparatus at the time of printing processing. Note that the processing of this flowchart is executed by the main controller unit 5501 shown in FIG. 1 based on a program stored in the HDD unit 5507 or the ROM or other recording medium in the main controller unit 5501. S1301 to S1306 indicate each step.

  When the printer driver (CPU 1) detects that an OK switch (a switch for instructing start of print execution) on the print dialog (not shown) is pressed, the printer driver (CPU 1) notifies the image forming apparatus 100 in synchronization with this timing. Printer driver setting information.

  On the image forming apparatus 100 side, the main controller unit 5501 waits until the printer driver setting information is received (S1301), and determines that the reception of the printer driver setting information is completed (received). The controller unit 5501 checks whether the user currently printing is personally authenticated (S1302). The personal authentication procedure in the printer driver is as described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  If the main controller unit 5501 determines in step S1302 that the user who is currently printing has been personally authenticated, the setting information received in step S1301 is used to authenticate the personal operation history storage table shown in FIG. The information is stored in the table corresponding to the individual and set in the image forming apparatus 100 (S1303).

On the other hand, if the main controller unit 5501 determines in step S1302 that the printing is from an operator who has not been personally authenticated, the setting information received in step S1301 is stored in the unauthenticated operation history storage table shown in FIG. And is set in the image forming apparatus 100 (S1304).

  When the printer driver finishes transmitting the setting information, it continuously transmits a print execution command to the image forming apparatus. Therefore, on the image forming apparatus 100 side, the main controller unit 5501 waits for this print command ( In step S1305, when a print command is received, print data that is subsequently sent and print processing are executed (S1306).

  The operation relating to the reception of print data and the print processing performed in step S1306 will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS.

  The print data sent from the printer driver is received by the NIC unit 5510 through the LAN, for example. In the NIC unit 5510, the signal received from the LAN by the transformer unit 5512 is converted into a signal that can be handled by the image forming apparatus, and then data is received by the LAN controller 5511. The print data received by the LAN controller 5511 is once sent to the main controller unit 5501 via the expansion bus 5509.

  The main controller unit 5501 converts various image formats sent from the printer driver and print data in the PDL language into a data format that can be handled by the printing unit 5513 of the image forming apparatus, and then prints the printing unit 5513. To prompt the printing process.

  The image data input to the output processing unit 5514 of the printing unit 5513 is subjected to gamma correction, sharpness processing, and smoothing processing for conversion into density data in consideration of various characteristics of toner density, and is sent to the PWM unit 5515. . The PWM unit 5515 generates a laser drive signal that is an analog signal based on the input digital signal, and outputs the laser drive signal to the printer unit 5516.

  This laser drive signal drives the laser light emitting unit 210, and a laser beam corresponding to this signal is issued from the laser light emitting unit 210. The laser beam is irradiated onto the photosensitive drum 211, and a latent image corresponding to the laser beam is formed on the photosensitive drum 211.

  A developer is attached to the latent image portion of the photosensitive drum 211 by the developing device 212. The recording paper is fed from either the paper cassette 213 or the paper cassette 214 and conveyed to the transfer unit 215 at a timing synchronized with the start of laser light irradiation, and the developer attached to the photosensitive drum 211 is recorded. Transfer to paper.

  Then, the recording paper on which the developer is placed is conveyed to the fixing unit 216, and the developer is fixed to the recording paper by the heat and pressure of the fixing unit 216. The recording paper that has passed through the fixing unit 216 is discharged by the discharge roller 217, and the sorter 219 sorts the recording paper by storing the discharged recording paper in each bin. If no sort method is set in the sorter 219, the recording paper is stored in the uppermost bin.

  When the duplex printing mode is set, the recording paper is conveyed to the discharge roller 217, and then the rotation direction of the discharge roller 217 is reversed and guided to the refeed conveyance path by the flapper 218. When multiple recording is set, the recording paper is guided to the refeed conveyance path by the flapper 218 so as not to be conveyed to the discharge roller 217. The recording sheet guided to the refeed conveyance path is fed to the transfer unit 215 at the timing described above, and the printing process is executed again.

  The above corresponds to the description of the operations relating to the reception of print data and the print processing performed in step S1306.

  The above corresponds to the procedure for executing the print function of the image forming apparatus using the printer driver operation history detail setting screen (FIG. 17) of the present invention.

  The personal authentication method in the above embodiment is described as being performed by the user ID (personal ID) and password using the user ID / operation history tab 905 of the printer driver screen described in FIG. Other authentication methods such as authentication by various cards such as IC card, ID card, memory card, voice authentication, fingerprint authentication, capillary blood vessel authentication, vein pattern authentication, cornea authentication, face authentication, etc. can be used. Needless to say.

  As described above, the desired operation history can be easily selected from the personal history or the entire history operated in the past on the image forming apparatus on the setting screen of the printer driver of the image forming apparatus displayed on the information processing apparatus side. Can be set (reused).

  Further, when the past operation stored in the operation history is not available at the time of display of the operation history, the setting screen of the printer driver of the image forming apparatus displayed on the information processing apparatus side, The fact that the operator can be notified of this fact makes a setting based on the operation history that cannot be used, causes an error at the start of the printing operation, and causes a reduction in work efficiency, such as requiring another print setting operation. It can be surely prevented.

  In this embodiment, the printer driver of the image forming apparatus is started on the information processing apparatus, and the personal operation history or the entire operation history in the print mode is selectively displayed on the setting screen of the printer driver to set the print settings. The configuration that can be reused has been described, but the scanner driver of the image forming apparatus is started on the information processing apparatus, and the personal operation history or the entire operation history in the scanner mode is selectively displayed on the setting screen of the scanner driver. It may be configured to be reusable for scan setting.

  Further, in each of the above embodiments, the configuration in which the history is stored in the image forming apparatus regardless of the presence or absence of user authentication has been described. However, the history is stored in the image forming apparatus only when there is user authentication. Also good.

  Further, in each of the above embodiments, the configuration in which the history is stored in the image forming apparatus has been described. However, when the user performs a setting for canceling the history mode through a user interface (not shown) (this setting is stored in the HDD unit 5507). The user's history may not be stored.

  Further, it may be configured that the user can select whether or not the history is stored at each history storage timing.

  Hereinafter, the above-described embodiment of the present invention is compared with Patent Document 1 shown in the column of the prior art.

  First, in each of the embodiments of the present invention described above, the personal operation history and the non-authentication operation history are respectively held, and the individual operation history or the entire operation history itself is selectively used by the operator. Further, the personal operation history is processed according to the current state of the image forming apparatus, and the unusable history is masked to prevent the user from making an unusable setting accidentally.

  On the other hand, in the image forming apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1, although the personal operation history is held, the held personal operation history changes the correspondence mode for the user, and the image forming apparatus The operation history itself is used for setting by the operator as in the above-described embodiments of the present invention, or the operation history is processed according to the current state of the apparatus. No description is made about the characteristic configuration of each embodiment of the present invention, such as masking an unusable device. In this respect, each embodiment of the present invention and Patent Document 1 are fundamentally different.

  The points described above are considered matters to be particularly noted when considering the difference between each embodiment of the present invention and the image forming apparatus described in Patent Document 1.

  Note that the various screens in FIGS. 3 to 6, 13, 15 to 17, and 20, and the configurations and contents of the various data in FIGS. 8 to 10 are not limited to this, but are intended for use and purpose. Needless to say, it is composed of various configurations and contents.

  As mentioned above, although the embodiment of the present invention has been described, the present invention can take an embodiment as, for example, a system, apparatus, method, program, or storage medium, and more specifically, from a plurality of devices. You may apply to the system comprised, and may apply to the apparatus which consists of one apparatus.

  In addition, all the structures which combined any one or all of said each embodiment and its modification are also included in this invention.

As described above, personal authentication for authenticating the operator is performed, an operation history based on the input operation command is stored in the memory for each authenticated individual, and the authentication is performed from the stored operation history for each individual. Display control of the individual operation history, select an arbitrary operation history from the displayed operation history, and set the image forming apparatus based on the selected operation history. The previous problem that it is difficult to find your own operation history because the operation history of other people who are unlikely to use is displayed, and when the upper limit of the number of operation history can be stored, the old operation history is others The conventional problem of being deleted by the above operation can be solved, and the operator can easily select and reuse a desired operation history.

  Also, since the state of the image forming apparatus is acquired and the display of the operation history is controlled according to the acquired state of the image forming apparatus, past operations set using the operation history cannot be used at that time. Even if the error occurs, the operator is not aware of it, and at the point of actually starting the copying operation, the error message displayed on the image forming apparatus first notices that there was an incorrect setting. This solves the conventional problem of incurring a drop and reliably prevents the operator from setting an operation history that cannot be used at that time, resulting in a decrease in productivity due to resetting. Can be prevented.

  Further, the information processing apparatus requests authentication of the operator from the image forming apparatus to authenticate the operator, and the information processing apparatus acquires the personal operation history authenticated by the image forming apparatus from the image forming apparatus. Display control, and an information processing apparatus selects an arbitrary operation history from the operation histories displayed on the display means, and setting information of the image forming apparatus based on the selected operation history is stored in the image forming apparatus. The setting information received from the information processing apparatus on the image forming apparatus side is stored in the memory for each authenticated individual as an operation history, and based on the setting information received from the information processing apparatus on the image forming apparatus side Therefore, even if the image forming apparatus is used from the information processing apparatus, the desired operation history can be easily selected from the operation history of the individual operator and reused. Rukoto can.

  Further, the information processing apparatus acquires the state of the image forming apparatus from the image forming apparatus, and controls the display of the operation history according to the acquired state of the image forming apparatus. Even if it is used, it is possible to reliably prevent an operator from accidentally setting an operation history that cannot be used at that time, and as a result, prevent reduction in productivity due to resetting. Can do.

  Therefore, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus including an operator-oriented environment for using an operation history that takes into consideration the environment used by a plurality of operators and the apparatus state during operation.

  The configuration of a data processing program that can be read by the image forming apparatus and information processing apparatus according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the memory map shown in FIG.

  FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium (recording medium) that stores various data processing programs that can be read (read) by the image forming apparatus and the information processing apparatus according to the present invention.

  Although not particularly illustrated, information for managing a program group stored in the storage medium, for example, version information, creator, etc. is also stored, and information depending on the OS on the program reading side, for example, a program is identified and displayed. Icons may also be stored.

  Further, data depending on various programs is also managed in the directory. In addition, a program for installing various programs in the computer, and a program for decompressing when the program to be installed is compressed may be stored.

  The functions shown in FIGS. 11, 12, 18, 19, and 21 in this embodiment may be performed by a host computer by a program installed from the outside. In this case, the present invention is applied even when an information group including a program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network. Is.

  As described above, a storage medium storing software program codes for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to the system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus stores the storage medium in the storage medium. It goes without saying that the object of the present invention can also be achieved by reading and executing the programmed program code.

  In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

  Therefore, as long as it has the function of the program, the form of the program such as an object code, a program executed by an interpreter, or script data supplied to the OS is not limited.

  As a storage medium for supplying the program, for example, a flexible disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, MO, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM, DVD, etc. Can be used.

  In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

  As another program supply method, a browser of a client computer is used to connect to a homepage on the Internet, and the computer program itself of the present invention or a compressed file including an automatic installation function is stored on a recording medium such as a hard disk from the homepage. It can also be supplied by downloading. It can also be realized by dividing the program code constituting the program of the present invention into a plurality of files and downloading each file from a different homepage. That is, a WWW server, an ftp server, and the like that allow a plurality of users to download a program file for realizing the functional processing of the present invention on a computer are also included in the claims of the present invention.

  In addition, the program of the present invention is encrypted, stored in a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, distributed to users, and key information for decryption is downloaded from a homepage via the Internet to users who have cleared predetermined conditions. It is also possible to execute the encrypted program by using the key information and install the program on a computer.

  Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (operating system) or the like running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by performing part or all of the actual processing and the processing is included.

  Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written to a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function expansion is performed based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that the case where the CPU or the like provided in the board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.

  Further, the present invention may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices or an apparatus composed of a single device. Needless to say, the present invention can be applied to a case where the present invention is achieved by supplying a program to a system or apparatus. In this case, by reading the storage medium storing the program represented by the software for achieving the present invention into the system or apparatus, the system or apparatus can enjoy the effects of the present invention. .

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications (including organic combinations of the embodiments) are possible based on the spirit of the present invention, and these are excluded from the scope of the present invention. is not.

  Although various examples and embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will not limit the spirit and scope of the present invention to the specific description in the present specification.

  In the first embodiment, the local copy mode in which original data is input from the scanner unit of the own apparatus and print processing is performed by the printing unit of the own apparatus has been described as an example. Reusing and simplifying the setting operation of the image forming apparatus can be performed in any of the facsimile transmission mode, the box mode, and the remote copy mode in which the original data is input from the scanner unit of the own device and the print unit of the other device performs the printing process. Is also applicable.

  In the second embodiment, the printer driver of the image forming apparatus is started on the information processing apparatus, and the personal operation history or the entire operation history in the print mode is selectively displayed on the setting screen of the printer driver and printed. The configuration that can be reused for the setting has been described. The scanner driver of the image forming apparatus is activated on the information processing apparatus, and the personal operation history or the entire operation history in the scanner mode is selectively displayed on the setting screen of the scanner driver. The present invention can also be applied to configurations that can be displayed and reused for scan settings.

101 Operation history detail setting screen 103 Overall history switch 104 Personal history switch 105 History information display screen 106 Operation history selection UI
108 OK switch 401 Personal authentication screen 404 Personal ID input unit 405 Password input unit 5501 Main controller unit 5502 Operation unit 5007 HDD unit 5508 Image memory unit 5510 NIC unit 5513 Printing unit 5524 FAX unit 5531 Scanner unit

Claims (9)

Setting means for performing print settings in order to execute print processing;
Execution means for executing print processing in accordance with print settings made by the setting means;
When print setting is performed by the setting unit in a state where personal authentication is performed, the print setting performed for the print processing executed by the execution unit is associated with the authenticated individual. When the print setting is performed by the setting unit in a state where the first setting history is stored and personal authentication is not performed, the print setting performed for the print process executed by the execution unit is displayed. Storage means for storing as a second setting history;
In the case where the print processing is executed using the setting history stored in the storage means, if the personal authentication is performed, the first setting history associated with the authenticated individual is stored. If the print processing is executed using the setting history selected by the user from the displayed first setting history displayed on the display means, and the personal authentication is not performed, the first and second Control means for displaying the setting history on the display means, and controlling to execute print processing using the setting history selected by the user from the displayed first and second setting histories ;
An image forming apparatus comprising: Before SL control means, characterized in that when said execution request of a printing process using the first or the second setting history displayed is input by the display unit, it executes a printing process that utilizes the setting history The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit limits execution of a job that uses the setting history based on a state of the image forming apparatus. It further has an authentication means for performing personal authentication,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the authentication unit authenticates an individual based on personal information input from an operator. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4 , wherein the authentication unit performs authentication by IC card authentication, voice authentication, fingerprint authentication, capillary blood vessel authentication, vein pattern authentication, corneal authentication, or face authentication.   6. The print setting history including any one of image quality, drawing method, printing speed, finishing process, paper feed process, and paper discharge process. The image forming apparatus described.   The storage means stores the first setting history in a first history table, and stores the second setting history in a second history table. The image forming apparatus described in the item. A method for controlling an image forming apparatus including a storage unit,
A setting step for performing print settings in order to execute print processing;
An execution step of executing a printing process according to the print setting performed in the setting step;
When print settings are made in the setting step with personal authentication, the print settings made for the print process executed in the execution step are associated with the authenticated individual. 1 is stored in the storage unit as a setting history, and when the print setting is performed by the setting step in a state where personal authentication is not performed, the print processing performed by the execution step is performed. A storage step of storing print settings in the storage means as a second setting history;
In the case where the print processing is executed using the setting history stored in the storing step, if the personal authentication is performed, the first setting history associated with the authenticated individual is stored. If the print processing is executed using the setting history selected by the user from the displayed first setting history displayed on the display means, and the personal authentication is not performed, the first and second A control process for displaying the setting history on the display means, and controlling to execute a printing process using the setting history selected by the user from the displayed first and second setting histories ;
A control method for an image forming apparatus, comprising: In an image forming apparatus provided with storage means ,
A setting step for performing print settings in order to execute print processing;
An execution step of executing a printing process according to the print setting performed in the setting step;
When print settings are made in the setting step with personal authentication, the print settings made for the print process executed in the execution step are associated with the authenticated individual. 1 is stored in the storage unit as a setting history, and when the print setting is performed by the setting step in a state where personal authentication is not performed, the print processing performed by the execution step is performed. A storage step of storing print settings in the storage means as a second setting history;
In the case where the print processing is executed using the setting history stored in the storing step, if the personal authentication is performed, the first setting history associated with the authenticated individual is stored. If the print processing is executed using the setting history selected by the user from the displayed first setting history displayed on the display means, and the personal authentication is not performed, the first and second A control process for displaying the setting history on the display means, and controlling to execute a printing process using the setting history selected by the user from the displayed first and second setting histories ;
A computer-readable program characterized by causing

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