Computer readable recording medium storing image processing program and image processing method transmitting function execution command for making a preset setting screen

An image processing method includes: displaying a functional image; storing processing information in association with the functional image; displaying a first setting screen and comprises an execution instruction image if an input made by a first operation for the functional image is received; transmitting, to the image forming apparatus, a function execution command if an input for the execution instruction image is received; displaying, on the display unit, a second setting screen if an input made by a second operation for the functional image is received; storing non-display information if a non-display instruction is received, and displaying, on the display unit, operation information if the non-display instruction is received.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is based upon and claims the benefit of priority of Japanese Patent Application No. 2012-074108 filed on Mar. 28, 2012, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to an image processing program and an image processing method for executing predetermined processing for image data.

In the related art, an image forming apparatus having a plurality of functions has been known. For example, in a related art, an image forming apparatus displays an icon for executing a predetermined function of a plurality of functions, based on a preset setting content. In such a related art, when a user manipulation to the icon is received, the preset setting content for the icon is displayed. Then, while the preset setting content is being displayed, a job is executed as the user holds an execution start key down.

Further, in another related art, when a user performs a short push operation on an icon in which a processing content using a predetermined function is set in advance, an image forming apparatus displays a setting screen indicating the processing content and executes processing based on the processing content as a start key is held down. When the user performs a long push operation, the image forming apparatus executes the processing based on the processing content without displaying the setting screen.

SUMMARY

In the related art, when a job is executed based on the setting content set for the icon, the setting content is displayed all the time. Therefore, whenever a job is executed, to display the setting content is troublesome for a user who knows the setting content already. Further, in said another related art, when the long push operation is performed on the icon, the processing can be executed without displaying the setting screen. However, a user who does not recognize the corresponding operation method cannot know the method of executing the processing unless the setting screen is displayed. Thus, the operability is deteriorated.

An aspect of the present disclosure has been made to solve the above problems. An object of the aspect of the present disclosure is to improve a user operability when the user instructs to execute processing by using a functional image such as icon for which a processing content is set in advance. The aspect of the present disclosure can be implemented in a variety of aspects such as an image processing apparatus, a control device controlling the image processing apparatus, an image processing system, an image processing method, a recording medium having the image processing program recorded therein, and the like.

The aspect of the present disclosure provides the following arrangements:

A non-transitory computer readable recording medium storing an image processing program that is executed by a computer of an image processing apparatus, the image processing program, when executed by the computer, causing the computer to function as:

a function display controller configured to display, on a display unit, a functional image for instructing to execute processing using a function of an image forming apparatus;

a storage controller configured to store, in a storage unit, processing information indicating a setting value for executing the function of the image forming apparatus in association with the functional image;

a first display controller configured to display, on the display unit, a first setting screen which variably displays the setting value stored in association with the functional image, the first setting screen including an execution instruction image for executing the function based on the setting value displayed on the screen, if an input made by a first operation for the functional image is received;

a transmission controller configured to transmit, to the image forming apparatus, a function execution command for executing the function based on the setting value displayed on the first setting screen if an input for the execution instruction image is received;

a second display controller configured to display, on the display unit, a second setting screen which variably displays the setting value stored in association with the functional image, if an input made by a second operation for the functional image is received;

a non-display storage controller configured to store, in the storage unit, non-display information indicating that the non-display instruction is received if a non-display instruction which does not display the first setting screen in response to the input made by the first operation at a state where the first setting screen is displayed on the display unit is received; and

an operation display controller configured to display, on the display unit, operation information which indicates that the setting value can be changed by the input made by the second operation for the functional image if the non-display instruction is received,

wherein the storage controller updates the setting value configuring the processing information into the setting value changed on the second setting screen if the setting value is changed on the second setting screen,

wherein in a case that the input made by the first operation for the functional image is received, the first display controller does not display the first setting screen on the display unit if the non-display information is stored in the storage unit, and

wherein the transmission unit transmits, to the image forming apparatus, the function execution command which executes the function based on the processing information stored in the storage unit in association with the functional image if the input made by the first operation for the functional image is received at a state where the non-display information is stored in the storage unit.

An image processing method capable of performing communication with an image forming apparatus capable of executing predetermined processing for image data, the method comprising:

displaying a functional image for executing processing using a function of the image forming apparatus on a display unit;

storing, in a storage unit, processing information indicating a setting value for executing a function of the image forming apparatus in association with the functional image;

displaying, on the display unit, a first setting screen which variably displays the setting value stored in association with the functional image and includes an execution instruction image for executing the function based on the setting value displayed on the screen if an input made by a first operation for the functional image is received;

transmitting, to the image forming apparatus, a function execution command for executing the function based on the setting value displayed on the first setting screen if an input for the execution instruction image is received;

displaying, on the display unit, a second setting screen which variably displays the setting value stored in association with the functional image if an input made by a second operation for the functional image is received;

storing non-display information indicating that the non-display instruction is received in the storage unit if a non-display instruction which does not display the first setting screen in response to the input made by the first operation at a state where the first setting screen is displayed on the display unit is received, and

displaying, on the display unit, operation information which indicates that the setting value can be changed by the input made by the second operation for the functional image if the non-display instruction is received,

wherein if the setting value is changed on the second setting screen, the setting value configuring the processing information is updated into a changed setting value,

wherein in a case that the input made by the first operation for the functional image is received, the first setting screen is not displayed on the display unit if the non-display information is stored in the storage unit, and

wherein if the input made by the first operation for the functional image is received at a state where the non-display information is stored in the storage unit, the function execution command, which executes the function based on the processing information stored in the storage unit in association with the functional image, is transmitted to the image forming apparatus.

An information processing apparatus comprising:

a processor; and

memory storing computer readable instructions that, when executed by the processor, causing the apparatus to function as:a function display controller configured to display, on a display unit, a functional image for instructing to execute processing using a function of an image forming apparatus;a storage controller configured to store, in a storage unit, processing information indicating a setting value for executing the function of the image forming apparatus in association with the functional image;a first display controller configured to display, on the display unit, a first setting screen which variably displays the setting value stored in association with the functional image, the first setting screen including an execution instruction image for executing the function based on the setting value displayed on the screen, if an input made by a first operation for the functional image is received;a transmission controller configured to transmit, to the image forming apparatus, a function execution command for executing the function based on the setting value displayed on the first setting screen if an input for the execution instruction image is received;a second display controller configured to display, on the display unit, a second setting screen which variably displays the setting value stored in association with the functional image, if an input made by a second operation for the functional image is received;a non-display storage controller configured to store, in the storage unit, non-display information indicating that the non-display instruction is received if a non-display instruction which does not display the first setting screen in response to the input made by the first operation at a state where the first setting screen is displayed on the display unit is received; andan operation display controller configured to display, on the display unit, operation information which indicates that the setting value can be changed by the input made by the second operation for the functional image if the non-display instruction is received,

wherein the storage controller updates the setting value configuring the processing information into the setting value changed on the second setting screen if the setting value is changed on the second setting screen,

wherein in a case that the input made by the first operation for the functional image is received, the first display controller does not display the first setting screen on the display unit if the non-display information is stored in the storage unit, and

wherein the transmission unit transmits, to the image forming apparatus, the function execution command which executes the function based on the processing information stored in the storage unit in association with the functional image if the input made by the first operation for the functional image is received at a state where the non-display information is stored in the storage unit.

According to the aspect of the present disclosure, when the input for the functional image is received, the first setting screen is not displayed on the display unit if the non-display information is stored. When the input for the functional image is received at a state where the non-display information is stored, the execution command based on the processing information stored in association with the functional image is transmitted to the image forming apparatus. That is, by the input for the functional image, it is possible to transmit the execution command to the image forming apparatus without displaying the first setting screen. Thereby, it is possible to simplify the operation sequence.

When a non-display instruction for storing the non-display information is received, operation information, which indicates that the setting value can be changed by the input made by a specific operation for the functional image, is displayed on the display unit. That is, when an instruction for prohibiting the display of the first setting screen is made, a sequence for changing a setting content is displayed on the display unit. Thereby, a user can know the sequence for changing the setting content when the display of the first setting screen is prohibited.

Therefore, according to the image processing program of the aspect of the present disclosure, it is possible to improve the user operability.

DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.FIG. 1is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of a personal computer (PC)10in which a device control program (hereinafter, referred to as ‘the present program’)14aaccording to a first embodiment is mounted. The PC10is connected to a scanner30via a LAN50.

The PC10mainly has a CPU11, a ROM12, a RAM13, a hard disk drive (HDD)14, a LAN interface (LAN I/F)16, an input device17and an LCD18, which are connected each other via a bus line19.

The CPU11controls respective units connected by the bus line19, in response to fixed values or programs stored in the ROM12or HDD14. The ROM12is a memory in which a program for controlling an operation of the PC10and the like are stored. The RAM13is readable/writable volatile memory that temporarily stores therein data necessary for processing of the CPU11and the like and is provided therein with a non-display flag13a. The non-display flag13ais a flag indicating whether or not to display a setting change dialogue A (refer to (b) ofFIG. 2) (which will be described later) on the LCD18.

The HDD14is a rewritable non-volatile storage device and permanently stores therein the data necessary for processing of the CPU11and the like. The HDD14stores the present program14a. The present program14ais a program for controlling an operation of the scanner30from the PC10. The processing shown inFIGS. 5 and 6(which will be described later) is executed by the CPU11, in response to the present program14a.

The LAN I/F16is an interface for performing communication with the other device connected to the LAN50. The input device17has a keyboard and a mouse for inputting an instruction or information to the PC10.

In the below, a variety of display images that are displayed on the LCD18when image reading processing is executed are described with reference toFIGS. 2 to 4. When the present program14astarts up in the PC10, a scanner control window shown in (a) ofFIG. 2is displayed on the LCD18.

In the scanner control window, buttons BT1to BT4to which a variety of image reading processing is individually allotted are displayed. The respective buttons BT1to BT4are allotted with processing that instructs the scanner30to read image data of a document image and corresponds to the respective buttons BT1to BT4. The reading of the document image and the processing corresponding to the respective buttons BT1to BT4are performed as a user operates the mouse serving as the input device17.

Specifically, a user operates the mouse to thus move a cursor (not shown) onto the button BT1to BT4(hereinafter, referred to as ‘desired button’) to which desired processing is allotted, thereby indicating the desired button BT1to BT4with the cursor. At a state where the desired button BT1to BT4is indicated with the cursor, the user holds a left button of the mouse down (left-clicks the button). Thereby, a setting change dialogue A is displayed on the LCD18, instead of the scanner control window.

In the setting change dialogue A, processing information corresponding to the respective processing is displayed. The processing information is configured by setting values for setting items corresponding to the respective processing and is set for each processing corresponding to the button BT1to BT4. Specifically, for example, when the user left-clicks the button with the button BT1being indicated with the cursor, the setting change dialogue A shown in (b) ofFIG. 2is displayed on the LCD18.

As shown in (b) ofFIG. 2, a selection box SB1group, a Default button BT5, a Scan button BT6, a Cancel button BT7and a Help button BT8are displayed in the setting change dialogue A. The selection box SB1is provided for each setting item and one selection box SB1displays a setting value for one selection item. In the selection box SB1, the setting values that are stored in the HDD14in correspondence to the selected button BT1to BT4are displayed at first.

When changing the setting value displayed in the selection box SB1, the user left-clicks the button with one selection box being indicated with the cursor to thus display a list of selection options for the setting value and selects one setting value from the list to thus change the setting value.

Then, when the user left-clicks the button at a state where the cursor indicates the Scan button BT6, a document image is read and the processing corresponding to the selected button BT1to BT4is executed. At this time, the processing is executed based on the processing information displayed in the setting change dialogue A.

While the processing is being executed, a reading window shown in (c) ofFIG. 2is displayed instead of the setting change dialogue A. The reading window indicates the reading of the document image and a progressing status of the processing corresponding to the selected button BT1to BT4. When the processing is over, the scanner control window is displayed, as shown in (d) ofFIG. 2, instead of the reading window.

By the above series of operations, the various image reading processing is executed. It is possible to change the processing information corresponding to the respective processing without executing the image reading processing. Specifically, the user operates the mouse to thus move the cursor onto the button BT1to BT4for which it is intended to change the processing information, thereby indicating the desired button BT1to BT4with the cursor. At a state where the desired button BT1to BT4is indicated with the cursor, the user holds a right button of the mouse down (right-clicks the button). Thereby, a setting change dialogue B is displayed on the LCD18, instead of the scanner control window.

The setting change dialogue B is also set for each processing corresponding to the button BT1to BT4, like the setting change dialogue A. For example, when the user right-clicks the button with the button BT1being indicated with the cursor, the setting change dialogue B shown in (e) ofFIG. 2is displayed on the LCD18.

As shown in (e) ofFIG. 2, a selection box SB2group, a Default button BT9, an OK button BT10, a Cancel button BT11and a Help button BT12are displayed in the setting change dialogue B. The selection box SB2group is configured so that the setting values of the setting items can be changed, like the selection box SB1group to be displayed in the setting change dialogue A.

Then, when the user left-clicks the button at a state where the cursor indicates the OK button BT10, setting values of setting items corresponding to the processing of the selected button BT1to BT4are updated. That is, the setting values that are stored in the HDD14are updated to the setting values displayed in the setting change dialogue B, in accordance with the processing of the selected BT1to BT4. Then, the scanner control window is displayed, as shown in (f) ofFIG. 2, instead of the setting change dialogue B.

It is possible to execute the various image reading processing without displaying the setting change dialogue A. Specifically, as shown in (b) ofFIG. 2, a non-display check box TB1is displayed in the setting change dialogue A. The non-display check box TB1is to prohibit the display of the setting change dialogue A. When the user performs a non-display instruction in the non-display check box TB1, the display of the setting change dialogue A is prohibited.

The non-display instruction is made as the user indicates the non-display check box TB1having a blank with the cursor and then left-clicks the non-display check box. The non-display check box TB1in which the non-display instruction has been made is denoted with a symbol ‘✓’. Hereinafter, the symbol is referred to as a non-display check. In the meantime, the non-display check box TB1is not denoted with the non-display check at first.

When the non-display instruction is made in the non-display check box TB1, a non-display flag13athat is provided in the RAM13becomes ON. At a state where the non-display flag13ais ON, when the user indicates the desired button BT1to BT4with the cursor and left-clicks the button, the reading window is displayed while the setting change dialogue A is not displayed, as shown in (a) and (b) ofFIG. 3. That is, when the desired button BT1to BT4is selected by the left-click operation, the image reading processing corresponding to the selected button is executed while the setting change dialogue A is not displayed.

Thereby, it is possible to prohibit the setting change dialogue A from being displayed, depending on the user's intention, thereby simplifying the operability. As a result, the operability for performing the image reading processing is improved.

When the non-display instruction is made in the non-display check box TB1, an information window is displayed on the LCD18, as shown in (b) ofFIG. 4. The information window is to explain a sequence for displaying the setting change dialogue B on the LCD18. In the information window, a message “You can right-click the OK button BT13and the button BT1to BT4to change the setting values” is displayed.

Thereby, it is possible to inform the user of the sequence for changing the setting values of the setting items at a state where the setting change dialogue A is prohibited from being displayed, thereby improving the convenience. When the OK button BT13is left-clicked in the information window, the setting change dialogue A in which the non-display check is marked in the non-display check box TB1is displayed, as shown in (c) ofFIG. 4.

It is possible to release the prohibition of the display of the setting change dialogue A. Specifically, a display check box TB2is marked in the setting change dialogue B, which is displayed as the button BT1to BT4is right-clicked, as shown in (d) ofFIG. 3. The display check box TB2is to release the prohibition of the display of the setting change dialogue A. When the user makes a display instruction in the display check box TB2, the prohibition of the display of the setting change dialogue A is released.

The display instruction is made as the user indicates the display check box TB2having a blank with the cursor and then left-clicks the display check box. The display check box TB2in which the display instruction has been made is denoted with a symbol ‘✓’. Hereinafter, the symbol is referred to as a display check.

When the display instruction is made in the display check box TB2, the non-display flag13athat is provided in the RAM13becomes OFF. At a state where the non-display flag13ais OFF, when the user indicates the desired button BT1to BT4with the cursor and left-clicks the same, the setting change dialogue A is displayed, as shown in (a) and (b) ofFIG. 2.

Thereby, after the setting change dialogue A is prohibited from being displayed, it is possible to release the prohibition depending on the user's intention, thereby improving the convenience. In the meantime, at a state where the display check is marked in the display check box TB2, the non-display check is removed from the non-display check box TB1of the setting change dialogue A, as shown in (b) ofFIG. 2. On the other hand, at a state where the non-display check is marked in the non-display check box TB1, the display check is removed from the display check box TB2of the setting change dialogue B, as shown in (d) ofFIG. 3.

The user may indicate the display check box TB2, in which the display check is marked, with the cursor and left-click the same, thereby removing the display check from the display check box TB2. That is, the display instruction in the display check box TB2is released. Thereby, the setting change dialogue A is again prohibited from being displayed.

When the display instruction is released in the display check box TB2, the non-display flag13athat is provided in the RAM13becomes ON. Thereby, when the user indicates the desired button BT1to BT4with the cursor and left-clicks the same, the image reading processing is performed while the setting change dialogue A is not displayed.

When the display instruction is released in the display check box TB2, an information window is displayed on the LCD18, as shown in (e) ofFIG. 4. The information window is the same as the information window, which is displayed as the non-display instruction is made in the non-display check box TB1, and explains a sequence for displaying the setting change dialogue B on the LCD18.

Like this, even when the setting change dialogue A is prohibited from being displayed in the setting change dialogue B, it is possible to inform the user of the sequence for changing the setting values of the setting items, thereby improving the convenience. When the OK button BT13is left-clicked in the information window, the setting change dialogue B in which the display check has been removed from the display check box TB2is displayed, as shown in (f) ofFIG. 4. At the state where the display check has been removed from the display check box TB2, the non-display check is marked in the non-display check box TB1of the setting change dialogue A.

The non-display flag for prohibiting the setting change dialogue A from being displayed and releasing the prohibition is common to the buttons BT1to BT4. That is, a flag value that is set in a button operation of one of the buttons BT1to BT4is also used in the other button operation of the buttons BT1to BT4. Therefore, the flag value that is set in the most recent button operation of one of the buttons BT1to BT4is stored as the non-display flag13a.

Specifically, for example, when the user performs a button operation for the button BT2after making the non-display instruction in the non-display check box TB1at the time of a button operation for the button BT1, the state where the setting change dialogue A is prohibited from being displayed is kept. Thereby, it is not necessary to perform an operation for prohibiting the setting change dialogue A from being displayed for each of the buttons BT1to BT4, so that the operability is improved.

The setting change dialogue A and the setting change dialogue B are substantially the same, except for the non-display check box TB1, the display check box TB2, the Scan button BT6and the OK button BT10, as shown in (b) and (e) ofFIG. 2. The non-display check box TB1and the display check box TB2are displayed in the same area although the comment contents thereof are different.

The same area means a divided same place when the setting change dialogue A and the setting change dialogue B are divided in the same ratio. Thereby, even when any of the setting change dialogue A and the setting change dialogue B is displayed on the LCD18, the user can change the setting values of the setting items and the like without feeling a sense of discomfort.

The Scan button BT6and the OK button BT10are also displayed in the same area. Thereby, even when any of the setting change dialogue A and the setting change dialogue B is displayed on the LCD18, the user can perform the button operation without feeling a sense of discomfort. However, the Scan button BT6is larger than the OK button BT10, i.e., emphatically displayed. Thereby, the user can distinguish between the setting change dialogue A and the setting change dialogue B that are much similar.

The PC10transmits an execution command for executing the image reading processing to the scanner30by using the present program14a. A flow of the present program14ais specifically described with reference toFIGS. 5 and 6. The flow ofFIG. 5starts when a startup instruction for the present program14ais received.

In S100, the CPU11starts up an application screen and displays the scanner control window (refer to (a) ofFIG. 2) on the LCD18. Then, the CPU11proceeds to S101. In S101, the CPU11determines whether the cursor is in the button area. When the cursor is in the button area (S101: YES), the CPU11proceeds to S104. In S104, the CPU11determines whether the left-click is made or not. When the left-click is made (S104: YES), the CPU11proceeds to S106. In S106, the CPU11acquires the setting values of the setting items that are stored in the HDD14. Then, the CPU11proceeds to S108.

In S108, the CPU11acquires the non-display flag that is common to all the buttons BT1to BT4. Then, the CPU11proceeds to S110. In S110, the CPU11determines whether the non-display check is marked in the non-display check boxes TB1of all the buttons BT1to BT4. That is, the CPU11determines whether the common non-display flag is ON. When the non-display check is marked (S110: YES), the CPU11proceeds to S112.

On the other hand, when the non-display check is not marked (S110: NO), the CPU11proceeds to S114. In S114, a dialogue A display subroutine shown in (a) ofFIG. 6is executed. In S200, the CPU11displays the setting change dialogue A (refer to (a) ofFIG. 2) on the LCD18. Then, the CPU11proceeds to S202. In S202, the CPU11determines whether the non-display check box TB1is changed. When the non-display check box TB1is not changed (S202: NO), the CPU11proceeds to S204.

In S204, the CPU11stores the setting change in the setting change dialogue A, except for the non-display check box TB1, in the RAM13. Then, the CPU11proceeds to S206. In S206, the CPU11determines whether the Scan button BT6or Cancel button BT7is left-clicked. When the Scan button BT6or Cancel button BT7is left-clicked (S206: YES), the CPU11returns to the main routine shown inFIG. 5. On the other hand, when the Scan button BT6or Cancel button BT7is not left-clicked (S206: NO), the CPU11returns to S200.

On the other hand, when it is determined in S202that the non-display check box TB1is changed (S202: YES), the CPU proceeds to S208. In S208, the CPU11checks a status of the non-display check box TB1. That is, the CPU11checks whether the non-display check is marked in the non-display check box TB1. When the non-display check is marked (S208: there is the check), the CPU11proceeds to S210. In S210, the CPU11stores non-display check presence information, which indicates that there is the non-display check, in the RAM13. Then, the CPU11proceeds to S212. In S212, the CPU11displays the information window (refer to (b) ofFIG. 4) on the LCD18. Then, the CPU11returns to S200.

On the other hand, when it is determined in S208that the non-display check is not marked (S208: there is no check), the CPU11proceeds to S214. In S214, the CPU11stores non-display check absence information, which indicates that there is no non-display check, in the RAM13. Then, the CPU11returns to S200.

When the dialogue A display subroutine is over, the CPU11determines in S116of the main routine shown inFIG. 5whether the button, for which it is determined in S206that the left-click is made, is the Scan button BT6. When the Cancel button BT7is left-clicked (S116: NO), the CPU11proceeds to S117. In S117, the CPU11deletes the setting values stored in the RAM13in S204, the non-display check presence information stored in the RAM13in S210and the non-display check absence information stored in the RAM13in S214and returns to S101. On the other hand, when the non-display check presence information or non-display check absence information is not stored in the RAM13, as the case where the setting change is not made in S204, the CPU11skips over S117and returns to S101.

On the other hand, when the Scan button BT6is left-clicked (S116: YES), the CPU11proceeds to S118. In S118, the CPU11stores the setting change in the setting change dialogue A, which has been stored in the RAM13in S204, in the HDD14and deletes the setting change stored in the RAM13. Then, the CPU11proceeds to S120. In S120, the CPU11sets the non-display flag13a, based on the non-display check presence information or non-display check absence information stored in the RAM13. Specifically, when the non-display check presence information is stored in the RAM13, the CPU11sets the non-display flag13aON, and when the non-display check absence information is stored in the RAM13, the CPU11sets the non-display flag13aOFF. Then, the CPU11deletes the non-display check presence information or non-display check absence information from the RAM13and proceeds to S112. In S112, the CPU11transmits an execution command for executing processing corresponding to the operated button BT1to BT4to the scanner30. Then, the CPU11returns to S101.

On the other hand, when it is determined in S104that the left-click is not made (S104: NO), the CPU11proceeds to S122. In S122, the CPU11determines whether the right-click is made or not. When the right-click is not made (S122: NO), the CPU11returns to S101.

On the other hand, when the right-click is made (S122: YES), the CPU11proceeds to S124. In S124, the CPU11acquires the setting values of the setting items stored in the HDD14. Then, the CPU11proceeds to S126. In S126, the CPU11acquires the non-display flag that is common to all the buttons BT1to BT4. Then, the CPU11proceeds to S128.

In S128, a dialogue B display subroutine shown in (b) ofFIG. 6is executed. In S300, the CPU11displays the setting change dialogue B (refer to (e) ofFIG. 2) on the LCD18. Then, the CPU11proceeds to S302. In S302, the CPU11determines whether the display check box TB2has been changed. When the display check box TB2has not been changed (S302: NO), the CPU11proceeds to S304.

In S304, the CPU11stores the setting change in the setting change dialogue B, except for the display check box TB2, in the RAM13. Then, the CPU11proceeds to S306. In S306, the CPU11determines whether the OK button BT10or Cancel button BT11is left-clicked. When the OK button BT10or Cancel button BT11is left-clicked (S306: YES), the CPU11returns to the main routine shown inFIG. 5. On the other hand, when the OK button BT10or Cancel button BT11is not left-clicked (S306: NO), the CPU11returns to S300.

On the other hand, when it is determined in S302that the display check box TB2has been changed (S302: YES), the CPU11proceeds to S308. In S308, the CPU11checks a status of the display check box TB2. That is, the CPU11checks whether the display check is marked in the display check box TB2. When the display check is not marked (S208: there is no check), the CPU11proceeds to S310. In S310, the CPU11stores display check absence information, which indicates that there is no display check, in the RAM13. Then, the CPU11proceeds to S312. In S312, the CPU11displays the information window (refer to (e) ofFIG. 4) on the LCD18. Then, the CPU11returns to S300.

On the other hand, when it is determined in S308that the display check is marked (S209: there is the check), the CPU11proceeds to S314. In S314, the CPU11stores display check presence information, which indicates that there is the display check, in the RAM13. Then, the CPU11returns to S300.

When the dialogue B display subroutine is over, the CPU11determines in S130of the main routine shown inFIG. 5whether the button, for which it is determined in S306that the left-click is made, is the OK button BT10. When the Cancel button BT11is left-clicked (S116: NO), the CPU11proceeds to S131. In S131, the CPU11deletes the setting values stored in the RAM13in S304, the display check absence information stored in the RAM13in S310and the display check presence information stored in the RAM13in S314and returns to S101. On the other hand, when the display check absence information or display check presence information is not stored in the RAM13, as the case where the setting change is not made in S304, the CPU11skips over S131and returns to S101.

On the other hand, when the OK button BT10is left-clicked (S130: YES), the CPU11proceeds to S132. In S132, the CPU11stores the setting change in the setting change dialogue B, which has been stored in the RAM13in S304, in the HDD14and deletes the setting change stored in the RAM13. Then, the CPU11proceeds to S134. In S134, the CPU11sets the non-display flag13a, based on the display check absence information or display check presence information stored in the RAM13. Specifically, when the display check absence information is stored in the RAM13, the CPU11sets the non-display flag13aON, and when the display check presence information is stored in the RAM13, the CPU11sets the non-display flag13aOFF. Then, the CPU11deletes the display check absence information or the display check presence information from the RAM13and returns to S101.

On the other hand, when it is determined in S101that the cursor is not in the button area (S101: NO), the CPU11proceeds to S102. In S102, the CPU11determines whether the application is over. When the application is not over (S102: NO), the CPU11returns to S101. On the other hand, when the application is over (S102: YES), the CPU11ends the flow.

In the below, operations of the PC10in accordance with second to fifth embodiments are described with reference to flows shown inFIGS. 7 to 10. Since the configurations of the PC10and the scanner30in the second to fifth embodiments are the same as those of the PC10and the scanner30in the first embodiment, the descriptions thereof are omitted. In the processing of the flows shown inFIGS. 7 to 10, the non-display flag is set for each of the buttons BT1to BT4. Therefore, in the PC10of the second to fifth embodiments, since it is not necessary to acquire the non-display flag that is common to all the buttons BT1to BT4, the processing corresponding to S108and S126shown inFIG. 5is not executed.

The PC10according to the second embodiment transmits an execution command for executing the image reading processing in accordance with the flow shown inFIG. 7to the scanner30. Since the processing of the flow shown inFIG. 7is substantially the same as that of the flow shown inFIG. 5, except for S416to S422, the processing of S416to S422is described.

In S416, the CPU11determines whether the non-display check is marked in the non-display check box TB1of the setting change dialogue A. That is, the CPU11determines whether the non-display check presence information is stored in the RAM13. When the non-display check is marked (S416: YES), the CPU11proceeds to S418. In S418, the CPU11stores the setting change in the setting change dialogue A, which has been stored in the RAM13in S204, in the HDD14. Then, the CPU11proceeds to S420. In S420, the CPU11sets the non-display flag13a, based on the non-display check presence information or non-display check absence information stored in the RAM13. Then, the CPU11deletes the non-display check presence information or non-display check absence information from the RAM13and proceeds to S410.

In S410, the CPU11transmits an execution command for executing the processing based on the setting values of the setting items stored in the RAM13in S204to the scanner30. Then, the CPU11proceeds to S422. In S422, the CPU11deletes the content of the setting change in the setting change dialogue A stored in the RAM13. Then, the CPU11returns to S401.

As the flow is executed, the setting change in the setting change dialogue A is stored in the HDD14when the setting change dialogue A is prohibited from being displayed. That is, when the setting change dialogue A is prohibited from being displayed, the setting change in the setting change dialogue A is permanently stored until a setting change is made next time. Thereby, it is possible to continuously use the changed setting change at a situation where it is difficult to change the setting items, so that the convenience is improved.

On the other hand, when the setting change dialogue A is not prohibited from being displayed, the setting change in the setting change dialogue A is stored in the RAM13and is deleted after the execution command is transmitted. That is, when the setting change dialogue A is not prohibited from being displayed, the setting change in the setting change dialogue A is just temporarily stored. Thereby, it is possible to change the setting items from the initial setting status at a situation where it is easy to change the setting items, so that the user can change the setting items without confusion.

The PC10according to the third embodiment transmits an execution command for executing the image reading processing in accordance with the flow shown inFIG. 8to the scanner30. Since the processing of the flow shown inFIG. 8is substantially the same as that of the flow shown inFIG. 5, except for S520, the processing of S520is described.

In S520, the CPU11determines whether the non-display check is marked in the non-display check box TB1. That is, the CPU11determines whether the non-display flag is ON. When the non-display check is marked (S520: YES), the CPU11executes the processing of S522and thereafter. On the other hand, when the non-display check is not marked (S520: NO), the CPU11returns to S501.

Thereby, only when the setting change dialogue A is prohibited from being displayed, the setting change dialogue B can be displayed. That is, when the setting change dialogue A is not prohibited from being displayed, the setting change dialogue B is not displayed even though the button BT1to BT4is right-clicked. The reason is as follows: that is, when the setting change dialogue A is not prohibited from being displayed, it is possible to easily change the setting items, so that the necessity to display the setting change dialogue B is low.

As described above, the setting change dialogue A and the setting change dialogue B are similar and the button operation (left-click) for displaying the setting change dialogue A and the button operation (right-click) for displaying the setting change dialogue B are also similar. Therefore, when displaying the setting change dialogue A or setting change dialogue B, the user may be confused. However, it is possible to reduce the user's confusion by restrictively displaying the setting change dialogue B.

The PC10according to the fourth embodiment transmits an execution command for executing the image reading processing in accordance with the flow shown inFIG. 9to the scanner30. Since the processing of the flow shown inFIG. 9is substantially the same as that of the flow shown inFIG. 5, except for S608, S610and S630, the processing of S608, S610and S630is described.

When the setting change dialogue B is displayed on the LCD18, the CPU11stores, in S630, time at which the displayed setting change dialogue B is closed, as setting time. Then, when the button BT1to BT4is left-clicked after the setting time is stored, the CPU11determines whether a difference between the stored setting time and the current time is within one minute (S608). When the difference between the stored setting time and the current time is not within one minute (S608: NO), the CPU11executes the processing of S612and thereafter.

On the other hand, when the difference between the stored setting time and the current time is within one minute (S608: YES), the CPU11proceeds to S610. In S610, the CPU11transmits an execution command for executing processing based on the setting values of the setting items in the setting change dialogue A to the scanner30.

As the flow is executed, when the button BT1to BT4is left-clicked within a predetermined time period (one minute, in this embodiment) after the setting change dialogue B is displayed on the LCD18, the execution command of the respective processing is transmitted while the setting change dialogue A is not displayed. The reason is that the necessity to display the setting change dialogue A just after the setting change dialogue B is displayed is low. When the user left-clicks the button BT1to BT4just after the setting change dialogue B is displayed, it is determined that the user wants to execute the processing with the content set in the setting change dialogue B. Therefore, it is possible to immediately execute the button operation in accordance with the user's intention.

The PC10according to the fifth embodiment transmits an execution command for executing the image reading processing in accordance with the flow shown inFIG. 10to the scanner30. Since the processing of the flow shown inFIG. 10is substantially the same as that of the flow shown inFIG. 5, except for S712to S718and S734, the processing of S712to S718and S734is described.

When the setting change dialogue B is displayed on the LCD18, the CPU11sets a display flag ON (S734). The display flag is to indicate whether the display check is marked in the display check box TB2and becomes ON when the display check is marked in the display check box TB2. The display flag is stored in the RAM13.

When the setting change dialogue A is displayed on the LCD18and the non-display check is not marked in the non-display check box TB1(S708: NO), the CPU11determines whether the display flag is ON (S712). When the display flag is not ON (S712: NO), the CPU11executes the processing of S714and thereafter.

On the other hand, when the display flag is ON (S712: YES), the CPU11proceeds to S716. In S716, the CPU11marks the non-display check in the non-display check box TB1. Then, the CPU11proceeds to S718. In S718, the CPU11sets the display flag OFF. Then, the CPU11executes the processing of S714and thereafter.

As the flow is executed, when the display check is marked in the display check box TB2of the setting change dialogue B, the setting change dialogue A is displayed only once. Specifically, when the setting change dialogue A is displayed after the display check is marked in the display check box TB2, the non-display check is automatically marked in the non-display check box TB1. Thereby, when the display check is marked in the display check box TB2and then the button BT1to BT4is left-clicked after the second time and thereafter, the image reading processing is executed while the setting change dialogue A is not displayed. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the number of times of the button operation for executing the image reading processing.

In the above embodiments, the setting changes in the setting change dialogue A and the setting change dialogue B are stored in the HDD14, except for the second embodiment. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the setting change in the setting change dialogue A may be stored in the RAM13and the setting change in the setting change dialogue B may be stored in the HDD14. That is, the setting change is temporarily stored at a situation where it is easy to change the setting items and the setting change is permanently stored at a situation where it is difficult to change the setting items. Thereby, it is possible to change the setting items from the initial setting status at a situation where it is easy to change the setting items, so that the user can change the setting items without confusion. It is possible to continuously use the changed setting items at a situation where it is difficult to change the setting items, so that the convenience is improved.

In the above embodiments, a variety of the buttons are operated by left-clicking or right-clicking the mouse. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the buttons may be operated by operating the keyboard. A touch panel, a touch pad and the like may be provided and the buttons may be operated by bringing an input medium close to or contact with the touch panel, the touch pad and the like. In addition, when the mouse is adopted as the input device, the operations of two types may be distinguished by a single click and a double click. Alternatively, when a button is adopted as the input device, the operations of two types may be distinguished by a long pushing and a short pushing.

In the above embodiments, the non-display check box TB1and the display check box TB2are displayed at the same position in the setting change dialogue A and the setting change dialogue B. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the non-display check box TB1and the display check box TB2may be displayed at different positions insomuch as they are displayed in the same area. The Scan button BT6and the OK button BT10are also the same.

In the above embodiments, the Scan button BT6is displayed to be larger than the OK button BT10, i.e., emphatically displayed in the setting change dialogue A and the setting change dialogue B. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the Scan button BT6may be emphatically displayed, compared to the OK button BT10, by making brightness, colors, shapes and the like of the Scan button BT6and the OK button BT10different.

The execution of the program14ais not limited to the CPU11of the PC10. For example, a multi-functional peripheral device, a complex machine, a printer, a scanner, a portable phone, a smart phone, a PDA and a computer such as tablet terminal may be also adopted.

The transmission destination of the execution command that is transmitted as the program14ais executed is not limited to the scanner30. For example, a multi-functional peripheral device, a complex machine, a printer, a scanner, a portable phone, a smart phone, a PDA, a tablet terminal, a digital camera and the like may be also possible.

The specific numbers, numerical values and the like enumerated in the above embodiments are just exemplary and may be changed into a variety of numbers, numerical values and the like. For example, the number of the buttons to which the various image reading processing to be displayed on the scanner control window is allotted, the time that is the determination basis in S608ofFIG. 9and the like may be set with arbitrary numbers, numerical values and the like.

In the PC10of the above embodiments, the CPU11that executes the processing, based on the program14a, performs the variety of the processing. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the CPU11that executes the processing, based on the program14a, may instruct another system and hardware configuration to execute the variety of the processing.

The technical elements illustrated in the specification or drawings exhibit the technical availability individually or by a variety of combinations thereof and are not limited to the combinations defined in the claims at the time of filing the application. The technology exemplified in the specification or drawings achieves a plurality of purposes at the same time and the achievement of any one purpose has the technical availability.

The PC10is an example of the image processing apparatus. The CPU11is an example of the computer. The RAM13is an example of the first storage unit (storage unit). The HDD14is an example of the second storage unit (storage unit). The non-display flag13ais an example of the non-display information. The non-display check is an example of the non-display instruction. The display check is an example of the display instruction. The device control program14ais an example of the image processing program. The LCD18is an example of the display unit. The scanner30is an example of the image forming apparatus.

The setting change dialogue A is an example of the first setting screen. The setting change dialogue B is an example of the second setting screen. The buttons BT1to BT4are an example of the functional image. The selection boxes SB1and SB2are an example of the processing information. The non-display check box TB1is an example of the non-display instruction reception image. The display check box TB2is an example of the display instruction reception image. The Scan button BT6is an example of the execution instruction image. The OK button BT10is an example of the update instruction image. The information window is an example of the operation information. The first operation is an example of the left-click. The second operation is an example of the right-click.

The CPU11that executes S100, S400, S500, S600and S700is an example of the function display control means and the function display control step. The CPU11that executes S118, S132, S418, S204, S432, S516, S528, S618, S628, S722and S734is an example of the storage control means and the storage step. The CPU11that executes S114, S412, S512, S614and S714is an example of the first display control means and the first display control step. The CPU11that executes S112, S410, S510, S610and S710is an example of the transmission means and the transmission step. The CPU11that executes S128, S428, S524, S624and S728is an example of the second display control means and the second display control step. The CPU11that executes S210and S310is an example of the non-display storage control means and the non-display storage step. The CPU11that executes S212and S312is an example of the operation display control means and the operation display control step. The CPU11that executes S416is an example of the non-display instruction determination means. The CPU11that executes S608is an example of the input determination means.

In the meantime, the program14amay be configured by one program module or a plurality of program modules. Each example may be another replaceable configuration and is within the category of the invention. The program may be a computer (CPU11) that executes the processing based on the image processing program (device control program14a), a computer that executes the processing based on a program such as operating system, the other applications, programs and the like other than the image processing program, a hardware configuration (LCD18and the like) that operates in response to an instruction of the computer or a configuration in which the computer and the hardware configuration interlock. The program may be a computer that executes the processing by interlocking the processing based on a plurality of programs or a hardware configuration that operates in response to an instruction of the computer executing the processing by interlocking the processing based on a plurality of programs.