Patent ID: 12238253

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the present disclosure, a multifunction peripheral10capable of executing either a copy mode or a scan mode is described as an example of an image processing device. The following embodiments are examples for describing the present disclosure, and the technical scope set forth in the scope of claims is not limited to the description below.

1 First Embodiment

FIG.1is a diagram schematically illustrating the overall configuration of an output system100according to a first embodiment. The output system100includes the multifunction peripheral10, a terminal device30, and a network service50. In the output system100according to the first embodiment, an external authentication server (not illustrated), or the like, may be separately installed to perform user authentication for the multifunction peripheral10.

The multifunction peripheral10is communicatively connected to the network service50via a network (NW) illustrated in a solid line in the figure. The terminal device30is communicatively connected to the network service50via a network (NW). The terminal device30is configured to acquire device information described below from the multifunction peripheral10(a dotted line in the FIG.).

1.1 Functional Configuration

1.1.1 About Multifunction Peripheral10

The multifunction peripheral10is an image processing device that, for example, may scan a printed document and form an image on paper, which is a recording medium, and thus output a printed material. The multifunction peripheral10is also an image processing device that may output electronic data in a predetermined format (e.g., portable document format (PDF)) based on scan data of a printed document. The input material is not limited to printed documents but may also be electronic data input from, for example, external storage media or external devices.

FIG.2is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the multifunction peripheral10. The multifunction peripheral10includes a controller11, a display13, an operation inputter15, an outputter17, a communicator19, and a storage21.

The controller11controls the overall multifunction peripheral10. The controller11includes one or more arithmetic devices (such as central processing units (CPUs)). The controller11reads and executes various programs stored in the storage21to perform its function.

The display13presents various types of information to a user, etc. The display13may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic electro-luminescence (EL) display. The display13presents device information including identification information described below.

The operation inputter15receives information input by the user, etc. The operation inputter15may include hardware keys (e.g., a numeric keypad), buttons, etc. The operation inputter15may be configured as a touch panel display that allows input via the display13. In this case, examples of the input method to the touch panel display include a resistive method, infrared method, inductive method, and capacitive method.

The outputter17includes an image former171and an image reader173. The image former171forms an image based on image data (image data generated by scanning a printed document or image data input from an external device) on paper, which is a recording medium, and outputs it. The image former171may include, for example, a laser printer using an electrophotographic system. The image former171forms images by using the toners supplied from toner cartridges (not illustrated) corresponding to toner colors (e.g., cyan, magenta, yellow, and black).

The image reader173scans and reads the printed document (document image), which is the target to be read, to generate and output image data. The image reader173may be configured as a scanner device including an image sensor such as a charge coupled device (CCD) or a contact image sensor (CIS). There is no limitation on the configuration of the image reader173as long as the image reader173is configured to read the reflected light image from the printed document with an image sensor and thus output image data.

The communicator19includes either a wired or wireless interface or both interfaces to communicate with other devices via a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), the Internet, telephone line, fax line, etc.

The storage21stores various programs needed for the operation of the multifunction peripheral10and various types of data. The storage21may include a storage device such as a random access memory (RAM), a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), and a read only memory (ROM).

According to the first embodiment, the storage21stores an outputter control program211, a display processing program213, a device information generation program215, and a setting information acquisition program217and ensures a device setting value storage area219.

The outputter control program211is a program read by the controller11to control the outputter17such as the image former171and the image reader173. When the controller11acquires the setting information described below after reading the outputter control program211, the controller11controls the outputter17based on the setting information to perform print output by the image former171or image data output by the image reader173.

The display processing program213is a program read by the controller11to perform display processing on the display13for, for example, the home screen and the execution screen based on each mode. After reading the display processing program213, the controller11presents, on the display13, the display screen including the device information at any time of device startup, recovery from a sleep mode, auto clear, and user login when an authentication mode is enabled. The auto clear according to the present disclosure is a process executed when a job itself is canceled or when the input or selection of a setting value is canceled. Typically, auto clear may be executed by pressing an “auto clear button” (not illustrated), or the like, provided on the display screen.

The device information generation program215is a program read by the controller11to generate the device information including the identification information of the multifunction peripheral10. The device information according to the present disclosure includes at least items related to the settings of the multifunction peripheral10that are needed for inputting the setting information in the terminal device30and items related to the connection to the network service50such as the identification information of the multifunction peripheral10and a session key. After reading the device information generation program215, the controller11generates the above information as encoded information that is encoded using one or more of a quick response (QR) code, a barcode, a symbol, and an alphanumeric. The controller11updates the device information on a regular or irregular basis. For example, the controller11may update the device information in order to correspond to a new function that is added when a driver program of the multifunction peripheral10is updated. Furthermore, the controller11updates the device information when the information about the connection to the network service50is updated or changed, when the installation location of the multifunction peripheral10is changed, etc.

Here, a configuration example of the device information according to the present disclosure will be described with reference toFIG.3. The device information illustrated inFIG.3includes items such as “name”, “type”, and “version” as interface (I/F) related items, “color mode”, “punch”, “staple”, “optical character recognition (OCR)”, and the like, as MFP related items, and “device ID”, “session key”, “installation country”, and the like, as connection related items, which are described in a specific format. The terminal device30may read and decode the encoded device information to acquire the device information. The terminal device30may connect to the network service50based on the connection related items (device ID, session key) of the acquired device information.

The device information items and their values illustrated inFIG.3are only examples, and the device information according to the present disclosure is not limited to the description inFIG.3. For example, when an authentication operation for the multifunction peripheral10is needed for a job execution instruction by the terminal device30, the device information may include a personal identification number (PIN), a one-time password generated by a token, etc.

With reference back toFIG.2, the setting information acquisition program217is a program read by the controller11to acquire the setting information set in the terminal device30from the network service50. After reading the setting information acquisition program217, the controller11executes for example a hypertext transfer protocol secure (HTTPS) long polling communication with the network service50and, when a job is sent from the terminal device30to the multifunction peripheral10, acquires the setting information for the job.

The device setting value storage area219is a storage area that stores the device setting value regarding the generation of the device information. After reading the device information generation program215, the controller11reads the device setting value (e.g., “color mode”, “punch”, “staple”, and “OCR”) stored in the device setting value storage area219to generate the device information for the MFP related items.

1.1.2 About Terminal Device30

The terminal device30according to the present disclosure may be configured as what is called a mobile terminal device, such as a smartphone, tablet, cell phone, or notebook computer. The terminal device30is configured as a device that has at least the function to interact with a (graphical) user interface, the function for communications, and the function specific to the mobile terminal device.

FIG.4is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the terminal device30. The terminal device30includes a controller31, a display33, an operation inputter35, a device information acquirer37, a communicator39, and a storage41.

The controller31controls the overall terminal device30. The controller31includes, for example, one or more arithmetic devices (CPUs, etc.), and the controller31reads and executes various programs stored in the storage41to perform its function.

The display33presents various types of information to the user, etc. The display33may include, for example, an LCD and an organic EL display.

The operation inputter35receives information input by the user, etc. The operation inputter35may be configured as a touch panel display that allows input via the display33. In this case, examples of the input method to the touch panel display include a resistive method, infrared method, inductive method, and capacitive method.

The device information acquirer37acquires the device information (encoded information) presented on the display13of the multifunction peripheral10. Examples of the device information acquirer37include an imaging device such as a camera and a scanning device using a laser beam. There is no particular limitation on the configuration of the device information acquirer37as long as the device information acquirer37may acquire the device information of the multifunction peripheral10, and may acquire the device information by using wireless communications (e.g., Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), and infrared rays). The device information acquirer37does not need to be directly included in the terminal device30but may be an external device having, for example, an imaging function, scanning function, etc.

The communicator39includes either a wired or wireless interface or both interfaces to communicate with other devices via a LAN, WAN, the Internet, telephone line, etc.

The storage41stores various programs needed for operations of the terminal device30and various types of data. The storage41may include a storage device such as a RAM, HDD, SSD, and ROM.

According to the first embodiment, the storage41stores a device information acquisition program411, a display processing program413, and a setting information generation program415and ensures a device information storage area417and a setting value storage area419.

The device information acquisition program411is a program read by the controller11to acquire the device information of the multifunction peripheral10. After reading the device information acquisition program411, the controller31controls the device information acquirer37to acquire the device information.

The display processing program413is a program read by the controller31to present, on the display33, a user interface, and the like, which receives the selection of a job mode to be executed by the multifunction peripheral10and the input and selection of a setting value.

The setting information generation program415is a program read by the controller31to generate the setting information based on the setting value input and selected via the user interface presented on the display33. After reading the setting information generation program415, the controller31generates the setting information from various setting values that are input and selected via the user interface and stored in the setting value storage area419. Then, the controller31sends the generated setting information together with the identification information (device ID) of the multifunction peripheral10to the network service50.

Here,FIG.5is a table illustrating a configuration example of a combination of the setting information and the identification information (device ID) sent by the terminal device30to the network service50.FIG.5illustrates an example of sending of the combination of the setting information including a group of “mode”, “number of copies”, “feed tray”, “two-sided copy”, “180-degree rotation of back surface orientation”, “color mode”, “punch”, and “staple” input and selected via the user interface and “jv6Ou3QBGv8w6yNtGt” as the identification information (device ID) of the multifunction peripheral10.

With reference back toFIG.4, the device information storage area417is a storage area for storing the device information acquired from the multifunction peripheral10. The setting value storage area419is a storage area for storing the setting value input and selected by the user via the user interface.

1.1.3 About Network Service50

The network service50is a computing system, what is called a cloud, which provides a predetermined service such as processing resources, storage resources, and delivery resources through, for example, a web browser. The service provided by the network service50may be used by using any data communication protocol such as a transfer control protocol, Internet protocol, and other protocols and accessing from the multifunction peripheral10or the terminal device30via the network (NW). The network service50includes one or more network devices50aas hardware. In the following description, when no special hardware configuration is described, the network service50will be simply referred to.

FIG.6is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the network device50aincluded in the network service50. The network device50aincludes a controller51, a display53, an operation inputter55, a communicator57, and a storage59.

The controller51controls the overall network service50. The controller51includes, for example, one or more arithmetic devices (CPUs, etc.), and the controller51reads and executes various programs stored in the storage59to perform its function.

The display53presents various types of information to the user, etc. The display53may include, for example, an LCD and an organic EL display.

The operation inputter55receives information input by the user, etc. An input device such as a keyboard and a mouse may be used as the operation inputter55.

The communicator57includes either a wired or wireless interface or both interfaces to communicate with other devices via a LAN, WAN, the Internet, telephone line, etc.

The storage59stores various programs needed for operations of the network service50and various types of data. The storage59may include a storage device such as a RAM, HDD, SSD, and ROM.

According to the first embodiment, the storage59stores a terminal device authentication program591and a setting information sending program593and ensures an identification information/setting information storage area595.

The terminal device authentication program591is a program read by the controller51to authenticate the connection with the terminal device30. After reading the terminal device authentication program591, the controller51authenticates the connection with the terminal device30based on the session key sent together when the identification information and the setting information are sent from the terminal device30.

The setting information sending program593is a program read by the controller51to send the setting information to the multifunction peripheral10. After reading the setting information sending program593, the controller51searches for the job ID attached to the identification information (device ID) on the multifunction peripheral10in response to the HTTPS long polling from the multifunction peripheral10. When the setting information is associated with the job ID, the connection is established with the multifunction peripheral10and the setting information is sent.

As illustrated inFIG.7, the identification information/setting information storage area595is a storage area in which the controller51associates the identification information with the setting information of the multifunction peripheral10sent from the terminal device30, then attaches the job ID to them, and stores them. The controller51uses the job ID to manage the information in which the identification information (device ID) is associated with the setting information. The job ID may also be assigned by the terminal device30. In this case, the terminal device30may associate the identification information with the setting information of the multifunction peripheral10, then attach the job ID to them, and send them to the network service50. The controller51stores the identification information and the setting information of the multifunction peripheral10with the job ID attached thereto in the identification information/setting information storage area595.

1.2 Process Flow

1.2.1 Overall Process

Next, the overall process according to the first embodiment will be described using the flowchart inFIG.8. First, the multifunction peripheral10presents, on the display13, the display screen including the device information at any time of device startup, recovery from the sleep mode, auto clear, and user login when the authentication mode is enabled (Step S10).

The user sets the (printed) document in the multifunction peripheral10and inputs the instruction for starting the job application in the terminal device30(Step S100). The terminal device30starts the job application in response to the instruction for starting the job application (Step S102).

The user selects the job to be executed by the multifunction peripheral10via the user interface presented on the display33and inputs and selects the setting value for the selected job (Step S104).

The terminal device30receives the setting value for which the input instruction has been received and stores the setting value in the setting value storage area419(Step S106).

The user presses the start key (Step S108). After the start key is pressed, the controller31of the terminal device30reads the device information acquisition program411to acquire the device information presented on the display13of the multifunction peripheral10(Step S110).

The terminal device30generates the setting information from various setting values stored in the setting value storage area419and sends the setting information to the network service50together with the identification information of the multifunction peripheral10(Step S112).

The network service50associates the identification information with the setting information of the multifunction peripheral10sent from the terminal device30and then attaches the job ID thereto, and stores them in the identification information/setting information storage area595(Step S114).

The multifunction peripheral10executes HTTPS long polling with the network service50and inquires whether the setting information corresponding to the identification information of the multifunction peripheral10exists (Step S116).

When the setting information corresponding to the identification information of the multifunction peripheral10exists, the network service50establishes a connection with the multifunction peripheral10and sends the setting information (Step S118).

The multifunction peripheral10executes the job based on the received setting information (Step S120).

1.2.2 About Process of Multifunction Peripheral10

Next, the process of the multifunction peripheral10will be described using the flowchart inFIG.9. The controller11of the multifunction peripheral10determines whether the device status is device startup or recovery from the sleep mode (Step S200).

When it is determined that it is device startup or recovery from the sleep mode, the controller11performs a device startup process (Step S200; Yes→Step S210).

Conversely, when it is determined that it is not device startup or recovery from the sleep mode, the controller11determines whether it is the input of auto clear (Step S200; No→Step S220).

When it is determined that it is the input of auto clear, the controller11proceeds to the process at Step S230(Step S220; Yes→Step S230). Conversely, when it is determined that it is not the input of auto clear, the controller11proceeds to the process at Step S300.

After the device startup process at Step S210, the controller11determines whether, for example, the driver program, information about the connection to the network service50, etc. have been updated (Step S230). When there is updated information, etc., the controller11reads the device information generation program215to update the device information based on the updated information (Step S230; Yes→Step S240).

Then, the controller11reads the display processing program213to present the display screen including the device information updated at Step S230on the display13(Step S250).

Conversely, when there is no updated information, etc., the controller11does not update the device information, but presents the device information on the display13(Step S230; No→Step S250).

Subsequently, the controller11determines whether a “close button” provided on the display screen including the device information has been pressed (Step S260). When the “close button” has not been pressed, the controller11makes a request to acquire the setting information (Step S260; No→Step S270). Specifically, the controller11reads the setting information acquisition program217to perform an HTTPS polling communication with the network service50. The HTTPS polling communication with the network service50may be performed before the pressing of the “close button” for Step S260is received, and for example may be performed continuously after the device startup process at Step S210.

Then, the controller11determines whether the setting information has been acquired (Step S280). After acquiring the setting information from the network service50, the controller11executes the job based on the acquired setting information and ends the process (Step S280; Yes→Step S290). When no setting information is acquired from the network service50for a certain period of time after the user login while the authentication mode is enabled, the controller11may automatically perform a logout process. Thus, automatic logout may prevent unauthorized use when an unattended state such as a non-operating state continues while user authentication is enabled.

When the “close button” is pressed, the controller11displays the home screen (Step S260; Yes→Step S300). In this case, the controller11does not output a job based on the setting information sent from the terminal device30and acquired via the network service50.

Then, the controller11determines whether the instruction for executing a job has been received via the home screen (Step S310). When it is determined that the instruction for executing a job has been input by the user via the home screen, the controller11executes the job and ends the process (Step S310; Yes→Step S320).

1.2.3 About Process of Terminal Device30

Next, the process of the terminal device30will be described using the flowchart inFIG.10. The controller31of the terminal device30determines whether the instruction for starting the job application has been received from the user (Step S400).

When it is determined that the instruction for starting the job application has been received, the controller31reads the display processing program413to present the application screen as a user interface on the display33(Step S400; Yes→Step S410).

Subsequently, the controller31determines whether a copy job has been selected by the user via the application screen (Step S420). When it is determined that a copy job has been selected by the user, the controller31displays a copy job execution screen on the display33(Step S420; Yes→Step S430). Conversely, when it is determined that a copy job has not been selected by the user, the controller31displays a scan job execution screen on the display33(Step S420; No→Step S440).

The controller31receives the input of a setting value via either the copy job execution screen displayed at Step S430or the scan job execution screen displayed at Step S440(Step S450). Then, the controller31stores the received setting value in the setting value storage area419(Step S460).

The controller31determines whether the “start button” has been pressed by the user (Step S470). When it is determined that the “start button” has been pressed by the user, the controller31acquires the device information from the multifunction peripheral10(Step S470; Yes→Step S480a). Specifically, after the start key is pressed, the controller31reads the device information acquisition program411to acquire the device information presented on the display13of the multifunction peripheral10(Step S480a).

Subsequently, the controller31reads the setting information generation program415to generate the setting information from various setting values stored in the setting value storage area419(Step S480b). Then, the controller31sends the generated setting information to the network service50together with the identification information of the multifunction peripheral10and ends the process (Step S490).

1.2.4 About Process of Network Service50

Next, the process of the network service50will be described using the flowchart inFIG.11. The controller51of the network service50determines whether the identification information and the setting information have been acquired from the terminal device30(Step S500). In this case, the controller51may read the terminal device authentication program591and determines whether the identification information and the setting information have been acquired depending on whether the connection with the terminal device30has been authenticated.

When it is determined that the identification information and the setting information have been acquired from the terminal device30, the controller51associates the identification information and the setting information and then attaches the job ID thereto, and stores them in the identification information/setting information storage area595(Step S500; Yes→Step S510).

Subsequently, the controller51determines whether a request to acquire the setting information has been received from the multifunction peripheral10(Step S520). When it is determined that a request to acquire the setting information has been received from the multifunction peripheral10, the controller51determines whether the setting information corresponding to the identification information of the multifunction peripheral10is stored (Step S520; Yes→Step S530). In this case, the controller51searches for the job ID attached to the identification information (device ID) of the multifunction peripheral10in response to an HTTPS long polling from the multifunction peripheral10. When the setting information is associated with the job ID, the controller51determines that the setting information corresponding to the identification information of the multifunction peripheral10is stored.

When the setting information corresponding to the identification information is stored, the controller51establishes a connection with the multifunction peripheral10(Step S530; Yes→Step S540). Then, the controller51reads the setting information sending program593to send the setting information as a job to the multifunction peripheral10and ends the process (Step S550).

1.3 Operation Example

Next, an operation example according to the first embodiment will be described.FIG.12illustrates a configuration example of a display screen W10that is presented on the display13by the multifunction peripheral10. This operation example corresponds to the process at Step S250inFIG.9, and the display screen W10is displayed at any time of device startup, recovery from the sleep mode, auto clear, and user login when the authentication mode is enabled.

The display screen W10includes an operation procedure display area R10and a close button B10. The operation procedure display area R10is an area for describing the operation procedure of the output method according to the first embodiment through illustrations or animations. In the example illustrated inFIG.12, the operation procedure is described in the following order: (1) set a document, (2) settings with the terminal device, and (3) execute a job.

The operation procedure display area R10includes a device information display area R11that displays the device information of the multifunction peripheral10. In the example described according to the first embodiment, a quick response (QR) code is used as encoded information representing the device information. The QR code (registered trademark) is a two-dimensional code representing data in a graphical form. In addition to the QR code, information encoded using one or more of a barcode, a symbol, and an alphanumeric may also be used as the device information.

The terminal device30may read the QR code with an imaging device such as a camera or a scanning device using a laser light to execute a job.

The close button B10is a button that is pressed when the user desires to execute a job via the normal home screen without using the output method according to the present disclosure. When the close button B10is pressed, the controller11presents the home screen described in the subsequent figure on the display13.

FIG.13illustrates a configuration example of a home screen W20according to the first embodiment. This operation example corresponds to the process at Step S300ofFIG.9. The home screen W20is, for example, a basic screen that receives the user's selection of a job and selection of various function displays. The home screen W20includes a job/function selection button B12, a display forward button B16, and a job status button B18.

The job/function selection button B12receives the selection of the job, function display, etc., desired by the user. For example, when the user presses an “easy copy” button on the job/function selection button B12, the controller11displays a job execution screen (not illustrated) for setting the “easy copy”. The job/function selection button B12according to the first embodiment also includes a remote operation button B14to shift the screen to the display screen W10illustrated inFIG.12. When the user presses the remote operation button B14, the controller11shifts the screen display to the display screen W10so as to enable the use of the output method according to the present disclosure. The display configuration example of the job/function selection button B12inFIG.13is only an example, and job and function display buttons that are not displayed may be displayed by pressing the display forward button B16.

The job status button B18receives an instruction input for notifying the progress status of the job executed by the multifunction peripheral10, the reservation status, etc. When the user presses the job status button B18, the controller11presents the progress status of the job, the reservation status, etc., which are not illustrated.

FIG.14illustrates a configuration example of an execution screen presented on the display13when the multifunction peripheral10has received the setting information from the network service50and is executing the job based on the setting information. This operation example corresponds to the process at Step S290ofFIG.9. An execution screen W30includes a message display area R12indicating that the job is being executed and an execution job display area R14displaying the type of job being executed (copy job in the example ofFIG.14) by an illustration or animation.

FIG.15illustrates a configuration example of a completion screen presented on the display13when the multifunction peripheral10has completed the job. This operation example corresponds to the process after Step S290inFIG.9. A completion screen W40includes a message display area R16indicating that the job has been completed and a completion job display area R18displaying the completion of the job by illustration or animation.

FIG.16illustrates a configuration example of an application screen that is presented on the display33after the instruction for starting the job application is received from the user. This operation example corresponds to the process from Step S400to Step S410inFIG.10. An application screen W50includes a menu display area R20and a favorite list display area R22.

The menu display area R20includes a copy job selection button B20and a scan job selection button B22. The copy job selection button B20receives the user's selection of a copy job. When the pressing of the copy job selection button B20is received, the controller31may determine that the copy job has been selected by the user. When the pressing of the copy job selection button B20is received, the controller31displays the copy job execution screen on the display33.

Conversely, the scan job selection button B22receives the user's selection of a scan job. When the pressing of the scan job selection button B22is received, the controller31may determine that the scan job has been selected by the user. When the pressing of the scan job selection button B22is received, the controller31displays the scan job execution screen on the display33.

The favorite list display area R22displays items that are frequently used by the user in a list format. The ascending and descending order display of the favorite list may be switched by a sort button B24.

FIG.17illustrates a configuration example of the copy job execution screen presented on the display33when the copy job is selected by the user. This operation example corresponds to the process at Step S420, S430, and S450ofFIG.10. A copy job execution screen W60aincludes a setting value setting area R24and a start button B26.

The setting value setting area R24receives the input and selection of the setting value for job execution. The setting value may be input and selected as each setting value for a copy job, such as “number of copies”, “feed tray”, “two-sided copy”, “180-degree rotation of back surface orientation”, and “color mode”.

For example, a copy job execution screen W60bis a configuration example of a number of copies setting screen that is displayed when the setting value of “number of copies” is selected by a tap operation, etc. The copy job execution screen W60bincludes a modal M10that receives the input of the setting value of the number of copies and a setting value input button B28.

As illustrated inFIG.17, when the modal M10is displayed, the controller31displays other setting values in gray and puts a restriction so as not to input the setting value. The user inputs the number of copies by using the setting value input button B28. After the predetermined number of copies is input, a “set” button is pressed so that the setting value for the number of copies may be confirmed. When the “set” or “cancel” button is pressed, the screen returns to the copy job execution screen W60a.

FIG.18illustrates a configuration example of the scan job execution screen displayed on the display33when the scan job is selected by the user. This operation example corresponds to the process at Steps S420, S440, and S450ofFIG.10. A scan job execution screen W70aincludes a setting value setting area R26and the start button B26.

The setting value setting area R26receives the input and selection of the setting value for job execution. The setting value may be input and selected as each setting value for the scan job, such as “enter address”, “send to myself”, “reading settings”, “image orientation”, and “color mode”.

For example, a scan job execution screen W70bis a configuration example of a destination setting screen for sending to myself that is displayed when the setting value of “send to myself” is selected by a tap operation, etc. as the setting value. The scan job execution screen W70bincludes a modal M12that receives input of the setting value for sending to myself and a setting value input button B30.

As illustrated inFIG.18, when the modal M12is displayed, the controller31displays other setting values in gray and puts a restriction so as not to input the setting value. The user uses the setting value input button B30to input the sending destination for sending to myself. After the predetermined sending destination is input, a “set” button is pressed so that the setting value for the sending destination may be confirmed. When the “set” or “cancel” button is pressed, the screen returns to the scan job execution screen W70a.

FIG.19illustrates a configuration example of a device information acquisition screen displayed by the controller31to acquire the device information that is being displayed in the multifunction peripheral10after the start button B26is pressed on the copy job execution screen W60ainFIG.17or the scan job execution screen W70ainFIG.18. A device information acquisition screen W80aincludes a device information acquisition area R28and a status display area R30.

As illustrated inFIG.19, the device information acquisition area R28may be configured as a guideline to guide the user such that, when the device information to be acquired is encoded information such as a QR code, the encoded information falls within a reading area of the imaging device or the scanning device. The user operates the terminal device30such that the encoded information such as a QR code falls within the device information acquisition area R28. When the device information is acquired, the controller31shifts the device information acquisition screen W80ato a device information acquisition screen W80b.

The status display area R30is an area for displaying the progress status (status) of the operation or job to the user. For example, the status display area R30of the device information acquisition screen W80ais an example of displaying a message indicating that the QR code is to be read while the QR code falls within the device information acquisition area R28.

After the encoded information such as the QR code is read, a status display area R32on the device information acquisition screen W80bdisplays a message indicating that the job (setting information) is being sent to the multifunction peripheral10.

After the sending of the job to the multifunction peripheral10is completed, the controller31shifts the display screen to a device information acquisition screen W80c. On the device information acquisition screen W80c, a status display area R34displays a message indicating that the sending of the job is completed.

As described above, according to the first embodiment, the setting value for the job to be executed by the image processing device may be set on the terminal device, and therefore the job may be executed without direct contact with the operation screen of the image processing device.

2 Second Embodiment

According to the first embodiment, the device information is acquired after the setting information is set. A second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the setting information is set after the device information is acquired.

A functional configuration according to the second embodiment may be the same as that in the first embodiment. Therefore, the same configuration as that in the first embodiment is denoted by the same reference numeral, and the description thereof is omitted.

The process of the multifunction peripheral10and the process of the network service50may be the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore the description here is omitted.

The process of the terminal device30will be described using the flowchart inFIG.20. The controller31of the terminal device30determines whether the instruction for starting the job application has been received from the user (Step S600). When it is determined that the instruction for starting the job application has been received, the controller31reads the display processing program412to display the application screen as a user interface on the display33(Step S600; Yes→Step S610).

The controller31acquires the device information from the multifunction peripheral10(Step S680a).

Subsequently, the controller31determines whether a copy job has been selected by the user via the application screen (Step S620). When it is determined that a copy job has been selected by the user, the controller31displays the copy job execution screen on the display33(Step S620; Yes→Step S630). Conversely, when it is determined that a copy job has not been selected by the user, the controller31displays the scan job execution screen on the display33(Step S620; No→Step S640).

The controller31receives the input of the setting value via either the copy job execution screen displayed at Step S630or the scan job execution screen displayed at Step S640(Step S650). Here, based on the device information acquired at Step S680a, the controller31disables the input and selection of the setting value for a function that cannot be performed by the multifunction peripheral10.

Then, the controller31stores the received setting value in the setting value storage area419(Step S660).

The controller31determines whether the “start button” has been pressed by the user (Step S670). When it is determined that the “start button” has been pressed by the user, the controller31generates the setting information from various setting values stored in the setting value storage area419(Step S680b). Then, the controller31sends the generated setting information to the network service50together with the identification information of the multifunction peripheral10and ends the process (Step S690).

FIG.21illustrates a configuration example of the copy job execution screen presented on the display33when the copy job is selected by the user. This operation example corresponds to Steps S620, S630, and S650ofFIG.20. A copy job execution screen W60cincludes the setting value setting area R24and the start button B26.

The configurations and functions of the setting value setting area R24and the start button B26on the copy job execution screen W60care the same as those in the copy job execution screen W60aillustrated inFIG.17. However, on the copy job execution screen W60caccording to the second embodiment, the setting value for the function that cannot be performed by the multifunction peripheral10(e.g., “180-degree rotation of the back surface orientation”) is displayed in dark so as not to be input or selected based on the previously acquired device information.

As described above, according to the second embodiment, in addition to the effect of the first embodiment, the function inexecutable by the image processing device, which is to execute the job, is displayed so as not to be input or selected in advance, and therefore it is possible to eliminate the time and effort required to set the inexecutable setting value.

3 Third Embodiment

In the description according to the first embodiment and the second embodiment, the invention according to the present disclosure is applied to the multifunction peripheral. In the description according to a third embodiment, either the multifunction peripheral or the display device may be selected.

A functional configuration according to the third embodiment may be the same as that in the first embodiment or the second embodiment. Therefore, the same configuration as that in the first embodiment or the second embodiment is denoted by the same reference numeral, and the description thereof is omitted. The description of a common point in the processing flow is also omitted.

The third embodiment is different from the first embodiment or the second embodiment in the configuration of the application screen presented on the display33at Step S410ofFIG.10or Step S610ofFIG.20.

FIG.22is a configuration example of an application screen presented on the display33by the controller31according to the third embodiment. An application screen W51includes a menu display area R36and a favorite list display area R22.

The menu display area R36includes a multifunction peripheral selection button B32and a display device selection button B34. The multifunction peripheral selection button B32receives the selection of the multifunction peripheral by the user. When the pressing of the multifunction peripheral selection button B32is received, the controller31determines that the multifunction peripheral has been selected by the user. When the pressing of the multifunction peripheral selection button B32is received, the controller31displays the application screen W50for the multifunction peripheral illustrated inFIG.16on the display33.

Conversely, the display device selection button B34receives the selection of the display device by the user. When the pressing of the display device selection button B34is received, the controller31determines that the display device has been selected by the user. When the pressing of the display device selection button B34is received, the controller31displays an application screen (not illustrated) for the display device on the display33.

When there is a plurality of multifunction peripherals or display devices selected via the application screen W51, a selection screen may be provided to further receive the selection of the output device desired by the user.FIG.23illustrates a configuration example of an application screen W52including a menu display area R38prompting the user to further select the multifunction peripheral when the user selects the multifunction peripheral as an output device on the application screen W51and there is a plurality of multifunction peripherals (MFP1 to MFP3) that may execute the job.

The user may select the desired multifunction peripheral from a plurality of existing multifunction peripherals via the application screen W52.

As described above, according to the third embodiment, it is possible to select the display device other than the multifunction peripheral as another output device while the same effect as that in the first embodiment or the second embodiment may be obtained. Furthermore, even though a plurality of output devices (multifunction peripherals) is available, the user may easily select the output device that is to execute the job.

4 Fourth Embodiment

According to a fourth embodiment, the output of the job is controlled based on a user authentication result.

4.1 Functional Configuration

4.1.1 About Multifunction Peripheral90

The functional configuration of the multifunction peripheral according to the fourth embodiment may be substantially the same as that of the multifunction peripheral10according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the same configuration as that of the multifunction peripheral10according to the first embodiment is denoted by the same reference numeral, the description is omitted, and the different parts are described.

FIG.24is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration of a multifunction peripheral90according to the fourth embodiment. The multifunction peripheral90includes an authentication information acquirer23and a storage91instead of the storage21included in the multifunction peripheral10.

The authentication information acquirer23acquires authentication information for user authentication. The authentication information acquirer23may be configured as a card reader that reads an ID (identity/identification) card, such as an IC (integrated circuit) card or a magnetic card, which has been distributed to the user. When the ID card is a contactless IC card, the card reader is a contactless IC card reader. The authentication information acquirer23reads the ID card to acquire the user authentication information (user identification information, connection ID, etc.) recorded on the ID card. The authentication information acquirer23is not limited to a card reader, and its configuration is not particularly limited as long as the authentication information acquirer23may perform communications via a short-range wireless communication protocol such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), infrared, Near Field Communication (NFC), or Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), and acquire the authentication information for user authentication. Furthermore, an imaging device such as a scanner device or a camera may be included to support biometric authentication such as fingerprint authentication and face authentication.

According to the fourth embodiment, the storage91stores the outputter control program211, the display processing program213, the device information generation program215, the setting information acquisition program217, and an authentication program911and ensures the device setting value storage area219.

The authentication program911is a program read by the controller11to authenticate the user who logs into the multifunction peripheral90. After reading the authentication program911, when the authentication function is on, the controller11performs user authentication based on the authentication information received via the authentication information acquirer23and the login screen described below. The user authentication may be performed by biometric authentication, etc., in addition to property authentication via the authentication information acquirer23and knowledge authentication such as the combination of the login user name and the login password.

As the functional configurations of the terminal device30and the network service50may be substantially the same as those in the first embodiment, the description here is omitted.

4.2 Process Flow

As the overall process according to the fourth embodiment, the process regarding the terminal device30, and the process regarding the network service50may be substantially the same as those in the first embodiment, the description here is omitted.

4.2.1 About Process of Multifunction Peripheral90

The process of the multifunction peripheral90will be described using the flowchart inFIG.25. The process that may be the same as the process described in the flowchart ofFIG.9according to the first embodiment is denoted by the same step number and its description is omitted. The process described inFIG.25is different from the process described inFIG.9in that a login (user authentication) process is performed after the device startup process at Step S210and the process returns to Step S260when no setting information is obtained at Step S280. This is described below.

At Step S210, after the device startup process ends, the controller11reads the authentication program911to perform the login process (authentication process) (Step S330). After the login process ends, the controller11proceeds to the process at Step S230. The login process will be described inFIG.26.

When no setting information is acquired from the network service50at Step S280, the controller11returns to the process at Step S260. Then, the controller11executes the process at Step S260and subsequent steps.

Next, the login process (authentication process) for Step S330inFIG.25will be described. Here, a description is given usingFIGS.26to28in accordance with the mode that may be made when the authentication result indicates unauthenticated.

4.2.2 About Mode to Repeat Authentication Process when Authentication Result Indicates Unauthenticated

The mode to repeat the authentication process when the authentication result indicates unauthenticated will be described using the flowchart inFIG.26.

When the login process is started, the controller11determines whether the authentication mode is enabled (ON) or disabled (OFF) (Step S3310). In this case, the controller11refers to the setting value for enabling/disabling the authentication mode, which have been previously set via for example the system settings to determine whether the authentication mode is enabled or disabled.

When it is determined that the authentication mode is enabled, the controller11starts a preparation to receive the authentication information (Step S3310; Yes→Step S3320). In this case, the controller11initializes the authentication information acquirer23and displays the login screen described below on the display13to thus stand by for the input of the authentication information by the user.

Conversely, when it is determined that the authentication mode is disabled, the controller11ends the login process (Step S3310; No). At the end of the login process, the controller11may display a message indicating that the process has ended on the display13as the authentication mode is disabled.

When the preparation has been made for the input of the authentication information, the controller11determines whether the authentication information has been input by the user (Step S3320→Step S3330).

When it is determined that the authentication information has been input via the authentication information acquirer23or the login screen, the controller11receives the input authentication information (Step S3330; Yes→Step S3340). Conversely, when it is determined that the authentication information has not been input, the controller11waits until the authentication information is input (Step S3330; No).

When the input authentication information is received, the controller11performs the authentication process for the received authentication information (Step S3340→Step S3350). For example, when the authentication process is performed based on the authentication information input via the login screen, the controller11previously stores the login user name and the login password in association with each other. Then, user authentication may be performed by checking the login user name and the login password as the authentication information input via the login screen.

When it is determined that the authentication is successful, the controller11ends the login process (Step S3350; Yes). Then, the controller11proceeds to the process at Step S230inFIG.25.

Conversely, when it is determined that the authentication has failed, the controller11returns to the process at Step S3330and repeatedly receives the input of the authentication information until the authentication succeeds (Step S3350; No→Step S3330).

4.2.3 About Mode to End Process Using Multifunction Peripheral90when Number of Times Improper Authentication Information Has been Input is Equal to or More Than Limit

The mode to end the process using the multifunction peripheral90and limit the output of the job when the number of times the improper authentication information has been input is equal to or more than the limit will be described using the flowchart inFIG.27. The process described inFIG.27is a process obtained by adding the process to determine whether the number of times the authentication information has been input is equal to or more than the limit between the process at Step S3330and the process at Step S3340described inFIG.26.

In the same manner as in the mode described inFIG.26, when it is determined that the authentication has failed, the controller11returns to the process at Step S3330and determines whether the authentication information has been input by the user (Step S3350; No→Step S3330).

When it is determined that the authentication information has been input, the controller11determines whether the number of times the authentication information has been input is equal to or more than a predetermined limit (Step S3330; Yes→Step S3360).

When it is determined that the number of times the authentication information has been input is equal to or more than the predetermined limit, the controller11ends the process by the multifunction peripheral90(Step S3360; Yes→“end”).

When it is determined that the number of times the authentication information has been input is less than the predetermined limit, the controller11receives the input authentication information (Step S3360; No→Step S3340).

When the input authentication information is received, the controller11performs the authentication process for the received authentication information (Step S3340→Step S3350).

When it is determined that the authentication is successful, the controller11ends the login process (Step S3350; Yes). Then, the controller11proceeds to the process at Step S230inFIG.25.

Conversely, when it is determined that the authentication has failed, the controller11returns to the process at Step S3330(Step S3350; No→Step S3330).

4.2.4 About Mode to Limit Device Function of Multifunction Peripheral90when Authentication Result Indicates Unauthenticated

The mode to limit the device function of the multifunction peripheral90when the authentication result indicates unauthenticated will be described using the flowchart inFIG.28. The process described inFIG.28is obtained by adding the process to determine that the device function of the multifunction peripheral90is to be limited when the controller11determines that the authentication has failed during the authentication process at Step S3350described inFIG.26.

Here, device function limitation refers to limiting the function that is supposed to be executable by the multifunction peripheral90, such as job execution for a specific type of job, e.g., copy, scan, fax, and e-mail, reference to history information, and change in the operation mode, to limit the device function executable by the user who is determined to be unauthenticated. For example, the job execution itself of a specific type of job, such as fax and e-mail, may be limited as the target for device function limitation, or some functions included in the job may be designated as the target of function limitation. When it is determined that the device function is to be limited, the controller11limits the target device function.

At Step S3350, when it is determined that the authentication has failed, the controller11determines that the device function is to be limited and ends the process (Step S3350; No→Step3370). Also, when it is determined that the authentication mode is disabled at Step S3310, the controller11determines that the device function is to be limited and ends the process (Step S3310; No→Step3370). When limiting the device function, the controller11may display, on the display13, a message indicating that the device function is limited as the authentication mode is disabled or the authentication has failed.

The login processes described in [4.2.2], [4.2.3], and [4.2.4] above may be performed independently or in combination. For example, during the login process described in [4.2.4], it is possible to have a configuration such that it is determined that the device function is to be limited when the number of times the authentication information has been input is equal to or more than the predetermined limit. It is also possible to select whether to end the process by the multifunction peripheral90or to determine that the device function is to be limited when the number of times the authentication information has been input is equal to or more than the predetermined limit.

4.3 Operation Example

Next, an operation example according to the fourth embodiment will be described.FIG.29is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a login screen W90presented on the display13when the controller11reads the authentication program911.

The login screen W90includes a login user name input box Bx10, a login password input box Bx12, a login button B36, and a cancel button B38.

The login user name input box Bx10is a box that receives the input of the login user name of the user who attempts to log into the multifunction peripheral90.

The login password input box Bx12is a box that receives the input of the login password associated with the login user name of the user who attempts to log into the multifunction peripheral90.

The login button B36is a button that receives the instruction for confirming the content input to the login user name input box Bx10and the login password input box Bx12by the user. The cancel button B38is a button that receives the input of the instruction for cancelling the login process. The user inputs the login user name in the login user name input box Bx10and the login password in the login password input box Bx12and then selects the login button B36so as to input the instruction for executing the login process.

FIG.30is a diagram illustrating another mode of the login screen. A login screen W100includes a selection button display area R40that displays selection buttons assigned to the respective users who attempt to log into the multifunction peripheral90.

The selection buttons illustrated in the selection button display area R40are created as icons for the respective users based on the user's authentication information (e.g., the login user name, the e-mail address, and the login password) registered via a user addition/editing screen (not illustrated).

A user who attempts to log into the multifunction peripheral90selects the icon (selection button) representing him or her. The login authentication may then be performed by inputting the login password via the login password input screen (not illustrated) that is displayed by selecting the icon. By selecting the icon representing the user, the login screen W100may eliminate the need to input the login user name and perform the login process easily and quickly.

FIG.31illustrates a configuration example of a display screen W110that is presented on the display13by the multifunction peripheral90. This operation example corresponds to Step S250inFIG.25. The display screen W110may have the same configuration as that of the display screen W10according to the first embodiment, but is different from the display screen W10in that a login user name display area R42is included.FIG.31illustrates an example in which a user having the login user name “user G” has successfully logged into the multifunction peripheral90. The login user name display area R42is configured as a selection button to enable logout from the multifunction peripheral90.

FIG.32is a diagram illustrating another mode of the display screen that is presented on the display13by the multifunction peripheral90.FIG.32illustrates an example in which a display screen W112is displayed on the home screen W20in a superimposed manner, unlike the example inFIG.31. In this case, the controller11grays out the entire home screen W20to prevent the user from accidentally selecting the job/function selection button B12on the home screen W20.

As illustrated inFIGS.31and32, the login user name of the user who has logged into the multifunction peripheral90may be displayed on the screen such as the display screen W110or the display screen W112, and therefore the user who reads the device information may recognize the login user who has logged into the multifunction peripheral90.

FIG.33is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a home screen W22presented on the display13by the controller11due to the selection of the close button B10on the display screen W110illustrated inFIG.31or the display screen W112illustrated inFIG.32. The home screen W22may have the same configuration as that of the home screen W20illustrated inFIG.13, but is different from the home screen W20in that the login user name display area R42is included. When the close button B10of the display screen W112illustrated inFIG.32is selected, the login user name display area R42displayed on the display screen W112is continuously displayed on the home screen W22. Thus, with the configuration in which the login user name display area R42is continuously displayed in response to the screen transition from the display screen to the home screen, the user may properly recognize the login user name of the user who has logged into the multifunction peripheral90even when the user desires to execute the job via the normal home screen without using the output method according to the present disclosure.

FIG.34is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a message display area R44in which the controller11makes a notification when the number of times the improper authentication information has been input is equal to or more than the limit.

The controller11may end the process by the multifunction peripheral90and limit the output of the job when the number of times the improper authentication information has been input is equal to or more than the limit. Here, the controller11displays, on the home screen W20, a message such as “as inputs are more than the limit, remote operation is disabled.” so as to notify the user that the process by the multifunction peripheral90has ended. Here, in order to emphasize the fact that the job/function selection button B12is not selectable, the button may be grayed out.

FIG.35illustrates a configuration example of a display screen W114displayed by the controller11when the authentication result indicates unauthenticated and the device function of the multifunction peripheral90is limited. This operation example corresponds to Step S3370inFIG.28. The display screen W114may have the same configuration as that of the display screen W10according to the first embodiment, but is different from the display screen W10in that a function limit display area R46is included to indicate that the device function is being limited.

Here, the controller31of the terminal device30may display, on the display33, a modal M20indicating a message that the device function of the multifunction peripheral90is being limited, as illustrated inFIG.36. In this case, the multifunction peripheral90generates the device information including the message that the device function is being limited. The controller31of the terminal device30may read the device information to determine that the device function of the multifunction peripheral90is being limited.

The modal M20displays, for the user, a message such as “some functions are limited. Execute a job?” indicating that some (or all) functions of the multifunction peripheral90are being limited. The user selects a Yes button when there is no problem in executing the job even though some functions are being limited. On the other hand, to cancel the continuation of the job, the user selects the cancel button. Here, as illustrated in the example ofFIG.36, the modal M20may include a receiver that receives the instruction for referring to the limited functions (e.g., a “check limited functions” button).

As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, in addition to the effect of the first embodiment, the output of the job may be controlled based on the user authentication result.

5 ANOTHER MODE

In the configuration described according to the first embodiment, either the copy job or the scan job is selectable via the application screen of the terminal device30. Here, a description is given of another mode when jobs other than a copy job and a scan job are selected. Here, other jobs are for example jobs other than a copy job and a scan job, are not particularly limited as long as the jobs may be set via the application screen, and examples thereof include a scan save job and a fax job.

The process of the terminal device30according to another mode will be described usingFIG.37. The process of the terminal device30according to another mode is obtained by replacing the process from Steps S420to S440described in the flowchart ofFIG.10with Steps S420ato S445. The process that may be the same as that inFIG.10is denoted by the same step number and the description thereof is omitted.

The controller31determines whether a copy job has been selected by the user via the application screen (Step S420a). When it is determined that a copy job has been selected by the user, the controller31displays the copy job execution screen on the display33(Step S420a; Yes→Step S430). Conversely, when it is determined that a copy job has not been selected by the user, the controller31determines whether a scan job has been selected (Step S420a; No→Step S420b).

When it is determined that a scan job has been selected by the user, the controller31displays the scan job execution screen on the display33(Step S420b; Yes→Step S440). Conversely, when it is determined that a scan job has not been selected by the user, the controller31determines whether other jobs have been selected (Step S420b; No→Step S420c)

When it is determined that other jobs have been selected by the user, the controller31displays the other job execution screen on the display33(Step S420c; Yes→Step S445). Conversely, when it is determined that other jobs have not been selected by the user, the controller31returns to the process at Step S410and display the application screen (Step S420c; No→Step S410).

The controller31receives the input of the setting value via any of the copy job execution screen displayed at Step S430, the scan job execution screen displayed at Step S440, and the other job execution screen displayed at Step S445(Step S450). Then, the controller31stores the received setting value in the setting value storage area419(Step S460). The process after Step S470may be performed in the same manner as inFIG.10.

FIG.38illustrates a configuration example of an application screen W55that is presented on the display33after receiving the instruction for starting the job application from the user. The application screen W55may have the same configuration as that of the application screen W50(for example,FIG.16) according to the first embodiment, but is different from the application screen W50in that a selector (a three-point reader L10) is included to receive the selection of other jobs. Although the three-point reader L10is illustrated inFIG.38as the selector that receives the selection of other jobs, the selector is not limited to the three-point reader L10as long as it is configured to allow the selection of executable jobs via the application screen W50.

FIG.39is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a menu display area R48displayed by the controller31in response to the selection of the three-point reader L10on the application screen W55inFIG.38.

In response to the instruction for selecting the three-point reader L10, the controller31displays a job selection button B40(a scan save job selection button in the example ofFIG.39) for the job that is executable via the application screen W55. In this case, the controller31expands the display area of the menu display area R20, in which the copy job selection button B20and the scan job selection button B22may be displayed, to a menu display area R48illustrated inFIG.39and then displays the job selection button B40.

As described above, according to another mode, jobs other than a copy job and a scan job may be selected via the application screen, and therefore the types of executable jobs may be expanded.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications may be made. That is, the technical scope of the present invention also includes embodiments that may be obtained by combining technical measures that are modified as appropriate without departing from the gist of the present invention.

Although some of the above embodiments are described separately for convenience of explanation, it is needless to say that they may be combined and implemented within a technically allowable range.

The program operated on each device according to the embodiment is a program that controls the CPU, or the like (program that causes the computer to function) so as to perform the function according to the above-described embodiment. According to the embodiment, it is assumed that the device simultaneously executes a plurality of programs as needed by multitask processing. The information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (e.g., RAM) during the processing, is then stored in various storage devices such as a read only memory (ROM) and an HDD, and is read, corrected, and written by the CPU as needed.

Here, a recording medium storing the program may be any of a semiconductor medium (e.g., a ROM or a non-volatile memory card), an optical recording medium/magneto-optical recording medium (e.g., a digital versatile disc (DVD), a magneto optical disc (MO), a mini disc (MD), a compact disc (CD), and a Blue-ray disc (BD) (registered trademark)), and a magnetic recording medium (e.g., a magnetic tape, and a flexible disk). The functions according to the above-described embodiment are performed by executing the loaded program, and also the functions according to the present invention may be performed by processing in cooperation with an operating system, other application programs or the like, based on the instruction of the program.

For market distribution, the program may be stored and distributed in a portable recording medium or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, it is needless to say that the present invention also includes a storage device of the server computer.