JP7804448B2 - Information processing apparatus, image forming apparatus, and destination information display control method - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an information processing device, etc.

Some information processing devices, such as multifunction peripherals, are known to be able to acquire destination information managed by other devices, such as fax numbers and email addresses, and send faxes or emails to the destination names included in the destination information.

To efficiently select a destination name when sending a fax or email, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses an information processing device that presents the user with a list of destination candidates sorted in order of the number of destinations with attributes (data type, transmission date and time, subject string, data size) similar to the data being sent this time, based on past transmission history.

Patent document 2 also discloses a communication device that, when receiving communication destination data from a mobile phone, records data, including telephone numbers and email addresses, remaining in the communication history of an MFP (multifunction peripheral/printer) in a phone book in a limited or prioritized manner.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-155197 JP 2009-44291 A

Patent Document 1 requires the setting of comparison information (attributes) necessary for creating a destination list. In device configurations where destination information is obtained from other devices, the destination information is obtained regardless of the setting of the comparison information, so meaningful sorting cannot be performed if the comparison information necessary for sorting has not yet been set. Furthermore, Patent Document 1 requires attributes to be compared and sorted on the spot after the transmission data is confirmed, which can result in a huge amount of processing time before the transmission list is displayed. Furthermore, Patent Document 1 poses privacy and security issues because the transmission history is not treated separately from that used by others.

Furthermore, the communication device in Patent Document 2 only adds communication data acquired from a mobile phone to phone book data if it matches past communication history. Therefore, Patent Document 2 does not take into consideration convenience, such as sorting communication destinations related to acquired communication data in order of likelihood of use. And, like Patent Document 1, Patent Document 2 also raises privacy and security concerns because it does not treat communication history separately from that used by others.

The purpose of this disclosure is to provide an information processing device or the like that can acquire destination information managed by another device, such as fax numbers and email addresses, and send faxes or emails to destination names included in the destination information, making it easy to select highly usable destinations, and that provides excellent privacy and security.

To solve the above problem, the information processing device disclosed herein is characterized by including a storage unit capable of storing the history of jobs that use destination information, a communication unit capable of acquiring the destination information from a terminal device, a display unit capable of displaying the acquired destination information, and a control unit that determines a priority based on the history of jobs linked to the terminal device from the history, and controls the display of the destination information on the display unit based on the priority.

The image forming device according to the present disclosure is characterized by including the above-described information processing device and an image forming unit capable of executing the job related to image formation.

The destination information display control method according to the present disclosure is characterized by comprising a storage step of storing the history of jobs that use destination information, a communication step of acquiring the destination information from a terminal device, a display step of displaying the acquired destination information, and a control step of determining a priority based on the history of jobs linked to the terminal device from the history, and controlling the display of the destination information based on the priority.

This disclosure provides an information processing device that can acquire destination information managed by another device, such as a fax number or email address, and send faxes or emails to the destinations included in the destination information. It also makes it easy to select highly usable destination names, and provides excellent privacy and security.

1 is a front view illustrating an overall configuration of an information processing apparatus according to a first embodiment. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an overall configuration of an information processing apparatus according to a first embodiment. FIG. 1 is a functional configuration diagram of an information processing apparatus according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a functional configuration diagram of a terminal device according to the first embodiment. 1 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the first embodiment. 1 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the first embodiment. 1 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the first embodiment. 1 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the first embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the second embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the second embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the second embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a front view illustrating the overall configuration of a display control system according to a third embodiment. FIG. 11 is a functional configuration diagram of a server device according to a third embodiment.

Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this disclosure, a multifunction peripheral having functions such as copying, scanning, faxing, and emailing will be described as one form of information processing device or an image forming device equipped with such an information processing device. Note that the following embodiment is an example for explaining the present disclosure, and the technical scope of the description set forth in the claims is not limited to the following description.

[1 First Embodiment]
[1.1 Functional configuration]
FIG. 1 is a front view illustrating the overall configuration of a multifunction peripheral 10 according to a first embodiment. The multifunction peripheral 10 is configured to be able to communicate with a terminal device 30. The communication method is not particularly limited, but short-range wireless communication technologies such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Wi-SUN (registered trademark), and IrDA can be used. Note that while FIG. 1 illustrates an example in which the multifunction peripheral 10 communicates directly with the terminal device 30, communication via a network (not shown), such as a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), or the Internet, is also possible.

Figure 2 is a perspective view illustrating the overall configuration of the multifunction device 10. Figure 3 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction device 10. The multifunction device 10 includes a control unit 11, a display unit 13, an operation input unit 15, a communication unit 17, an image forming unit 19, an image reading unit 21, and a memory unit 23.

The control unit 11 controls the entire multifunction device 10. The control unit 11 is composed of, for example, one or more computing devices (such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit)). The control unit 11 realizes its functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the memory unit 23.

The display unit 13 displays various information to the user, etc. The display unit 13 can be configured, for example, as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display.

The operation input unit 15 accepts information input by a user or the like. The operation input unit 15 can be configured with hard keys (e.g., a numeric keypad) or buttons. The operation input unit 15 can also be configured as a touch panel that allows input via the display unit 13. In this case, the touch panel's input detection method can be, for example, a resistive film method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, or a capacitance method.

As mentioned above, communication unit 17 is equipped with a short-range wireless communication interface such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Wi-SUN (registered trademark), or IrDA. Communication unit 17 can also be equipped with either a wired or wireless interface, or both, for communicating with other devices via a network (NW) such as a LAN, WAN, the Internet, a telephone line, or a FAX line. Communication unit 17 can also be configured with a short-range wireless communication interface and a network communication interface separately.

Image forming unit 19 forms an image based on the image on paper as a recording medium. Image forming unit 19 feeds paper from paper feed unit 25, forms an image based on the image on the paper, and then discharges the paper to paper discharge unit 27. Image forming unit 19 can be configured, for example, as a laser printer that uses electrophotography. Image forming unit 19 forms images using toner supplied from toner cartridges (not shown) that correspond to toner colors (e.g., C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow), and K (black)).

The image reading unit 21 generates scan data by scanning and reading the document image to be read. The image reading unit 21 can be configured as a scanner device equipped with an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or CIS (Contact Image Sensor). There are no particular limitations on the configuration of the image reading unit 21, as long as it is configured to read the reflected light image from the document image with the image sensor and generate scan data consisting of RGB (R: Red, G: Green, B: Blue) analog signals.

The storage unit 23 stores various programs and data necessary for the operation of the multifunction device 10. The storage unit 23 can be configured with a storage device such as a RAM (random access memory), HDD (hard disk drive), SSD (solid state drive), or ROM (read only memory).

In the first embodiment, the storage unit 23 stores a job execution program 231, a history information generation program 232, a destination information acquisition program 233, a destination information display program 234, and a priority information processing program 235, and reserves a priority information storage area 236, a destination information storage area 237, and a history information storage area 238.

The job execution program 231 is a program read by the control unit 11 to perform processing associated with the execution of functions such as copy, scan, fax, and email on a job-by-job basis. The control unit 11 reads the job execution program 231 and executes each job by controlling the communication unit 17, image forming unit 19, image reading unit 21, etc.

The history information generation program 232 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when generating job history information as history information in conjunction with the execution of a job. The control unit 11 can generate job history information at any timing, such as after the settings for executing a job are completed (after setting values are input), when the start button, which is the input trigger for an instruction to start the job, is selected, or when the job is completed. The control unit 11 generates job history information for each execution of a job and stores the generated job history information in the history information storage area 238.

Here, job history information according to the present disclosure refers to information that records the execution history of jobs related to functions such as copy, scan, fax, and email. Job history information can include information such as a "job type" indicating which function the job is based on, a "destination name" indicating the name of the destination for fax data or image data if the job type is based on a transmission job using a fax function, email function, or the like, a "destination number" indicating the destination for fax data or image data, and "address information" such as a fax number or email address corresponding to the destination name, and, if the job uses destination information managed by a terminal device 30 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a collaborative job), a "terminal ID" for identifying the collaborative terminal device 30 and "date and time" indicating the date and time the job was executed. In addition to this information, job history information may also include, for example, a "job ID" that is an identifier for identifying each piece of history information, and information related to the job execution result, such as a "status."

The destination information acquisition program 233 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when acquiring destination information managed by the terminal device 30. After reading the destination information acquisition program 233, the control unit 11 controls the communication unit 17 and the like to communicate with the terminal device 30 and acquire the destination information managed by the terminal device 30. For example, if Bluetooth (registered trademark) is used as the communication method, the control unit 11 can acquire all of the destination information managed by the terminal device 30 in vCard format in a single operation by following the PBAP (Phonebook access profile).

The destination information display program 234 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when displaying destination information obtained from the terminal device 30 on the display unit 13. The control unit 11 sorts the destination information according to the priority in the priority order list described below, and displays the sorted results on the display unit 13.

The priority information processing program 235 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when generating a priority order list for displaying destination information on the terminal device 30 from job history information, or when updating an already generated priority order list. After reading the priority information processing program 235, the control unit 11 generates and updates a frequency order list for determining a first priority based on the frequency of use of transmission destinations (transmission destination names, fax numbers) from job history information for collaborative jobs with the terminal device 30. Similarly, the control unit 11 generates and updates a usage order list for determining a second priority based on the job execution interval (usage order) from job history information. The process of generating and updating frequency order lists and usage order lists will be described later.

The priority information storage area 236 is a storage area that stores the priority order list generated and updated by the control unit 11. The control unit 11 sorts the destination information obtained from the terminal device 30 by referencing the priority order list stored in the priority information storage area 236.

The destination information storage area 237 is a storage area that stores destination information managed by the multifunction device 10 and destination information acquired from the terminal device 30. When the control unit 11 executes a job using destination information acquired from the terminal device 30, the control unit 11 deletes or erases the acquired destination information from the destination information storage area 237 after the job is executed. In this way, the destination information acquired from the terminal device 30 itself is not retained in the multifunction device 10; only the transmission destination name and address information used for transmission are recorded as job history information. This eliminates the risk of the destination information acquired from the terminal device 30 being leaked to other users. This improves operability without causing privacy or security issues.

The history information storage area 238 is a storage area that stores job history information and setting history information that records setting values related to job execution.

Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the terminal device 30. The terminal device 30 according to the present disclosure is intended to be, for example, a typical mobile terminal device such as a smartphone, tablet, mobile phone, or laptop computer, but is not limited to these. Stationary terminal devices such as desktop computers can also be included in the terminal device of the present disclosure, as long as they are in an environment where they can communicate with the multifunction device 10.

Such a terminal device 30 includes a control unit 31, a display unit 33, an operation input unit 35, a communication unit 37, and a memory unit 39.

The control unit 31 controls the entire terminal device 30. The control unit 31 is composed of, for example, one or more computing devices (CPUs, etc.). The control unit 31 realizes its functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the memory unit 39.

The display unit 33 displays various information to the user. The display unit 33 can be configured, for example, as an LCD or organic EL display.

The operation input unit 35 accepts information input by the user, etc. The operation input unit 35 can be configured as a touch panel that allows input via the display unit 33. In this case, the touch panel input method can be, for example, a resistive film type, an infrared type, an electromagnetic induction type, or a capacitance type.

The communication unit 37 is equipped with a short-range wireless communication interface such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Wi-SUN (registered trademark), or IrDA. The communication unit 37 can also be equipped with either a wired or wireless interface, or both, for communicating with other devices such as the multifunction peripheral 10 via a network (NW) such as a LAN, WAN, the Internet, a telephone line, or a FAX line. The communication unit 37 can also be configured with a short-range wireless communication interface and a network communication interface separately.

The storage unit 39 stores various programs and data necessary for the operation of the terminal device 30. The storage unit 39 can be configured, for example, from a storage device such as RAM, HDD, SSD, or ROM.

In the first embodiment, the memory unit 39 stores an application program 391 and a destination information management program 392, and allocates a destination information storage area 393.

The application program 391 is a program that the control unit 31 reads when executing various applications, such as calls, emails, faxes, SNS, video and music viewing, and games.

The destination information management program 392 is a program read by the control unit 31 when managing destination information such as recipient telephone numbers, email addresses, fax numbers, and accounts used in applications such as calls, emails, faxes, and SNS. The control unit 31 performs processes such as new registration, editing, and deletion of destination information based on user instructions. The control unit 31 also reads and outputs the managed destination information based on a request for destination information from the multifunction device 10. If the request for destination information is made based on PBAP, the control unit 31 can write out the destination information in vCard format. It is also possible to write out the destination information in CSV format. In this case, the control unit 31 writes out all the destination information and then transmits it all at once to the multifunction device 10. The destination information management program 392 may be configured as a management program incorporated into the application program 391.

The destination information storage area 393 is a storage area that stores destination information managed by the control unit 31 that has read the destination information management program 392. In this disclosure, destination information refers to information in which at least one piece of address information, such as a telephone number, fax number, or email address, is associated with a destination name. In other words, the destination information may be information in which only a fax number is associated with a destination name, or information in which address information such as a telephone number and email address is further associated in addition to a fax number.

[1.2 Processing flow]
Next, the flow of processing according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to the flowcharts of Figures 5 to 8. In the following description of processing, FAX will be used as an example of a job type.

Figure 5 is a flowchart that explains the process of separately generating and updating a frequency-ordered list and a usage-ordered list as priority-ordered lists. The process explained in Figure 5 is executed by the control unit 11 by reading the priority information processing program 235, etc.

When processing begins, the control unit 11 references the job history information in chronological order, and determines whether there are any cooperative jobs with terminal devices 30 that are not reflected in the priority list (step S10). Here, "not reflected (unreflected) in the priority list" refers to, for example, when a frequency list is applied as the priority list, the total number of times transmission jobs have been executed for each transmission destination in the frequency list does not match the total number of cooperative jobs with terminal devices 30 obtained from the job history information related to the transmission jobs.

If it is determined that there is a cooperative job with a terminal device 30 that is not reflected in the priority order list, the control unit 11 acquires the terminal ID of the terminal device 30, the job type, and the transmission destination name from the job history information (Step S10; Yes → Step S20). Note that the control unit 11 repeats this determination process until it determines that there is a cooperative job with a terminal device 30 that is not reflected in the priority order list (Step S10; No).

The control unit 11 determines whether the terminal ID acquired in step S20 is a new terminal ID that is not listed in the priority order list (step S30).

If it is determined that the terminal ID acquired in step S20 is a new terminal ID, the control unit 11 generates an empty frequency order list and usage order list based on the terminal ID and job type (step S30; Yes → step S40).

On the other hand, if it is determined that the terminal ID acquired in step S20 is not a new terminal ID, the control unit 11 acquires an existing frequency-ordered list based on the terminal ID and job type (step S30; No → step S50).

Next, the control unit 11 determines whether there is a line in the generated or acquired frequency-ordered list that matches the transmission destination name for the unreflected collaborative job (step S60).

If it is determined that there is a line in the frequency-ordered list that matches the transmission destination name, the control unit 11 notes the cumulative number of times recorded in that line and deletes that line from the frequency-ordered list (Step S60; Yes → Step S70).

On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no line in the frequency-ordered list that matches the transmission destination name, the control unit 11 sets the cumulative number to "0" and records it (Step S60; No → Step S80).

The control unit 11 adds "1" to the cumulative count value noted in step S70 or step S80, sets the cumulative count to that value, and saves the frequency-ordered list by inserting rows containing destination name/address information such as fax number/cumulative count so that the frequency-ordered list is sorted in cumulative count order (step S90).

Next, the control unit 11 obtains a usage order list based on the terminal ID and job type (step S100).

Next, the control unit 11 determines whether there is a line in the obtained usage order list that matches the transmission destination name for the unreflected collaborative job (step S110).

If it is determined that there is a line in the usage order list that matches the transmission destination name, that line is deleted from the usage order list (Step S110; Yes → Step S120).

Then, the control unit 11 inserts a line at the top of the usage order list containing the destination name, fax number as address information, usage date and time, etc., and saves the usage order list (step S130).

The control unit 11 records that the update of the priority order list based on the unreflected collaborative job has been completed, and ends the process (step S140). Note that the control unit 11 may return the process to step S10 as necessary.

Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating the process from when the multifunction device 10 connects to the terminal device 30 to when it acquires destination information. The process described in Figure 6 is executed by the control unit 11 by reading the destination information acquisition program 233, etc. Note that Figure 6 describes the use of Bluetooth (registered trademark) as the method of connection (communication) with the terminal device 30.

The control unit 11 determines whether a request to obtain destination information has been received, for example, via the operation input unit 15, which may include a touch panel or the like (step S200).

If it is determined that a request to obtain destination information has been received, the control unit 11 enables Bluetooth (registered trademark) and transitions to a state of waiting for pairing with the terminal device 30 (step S200; Yes → step S210). Note that the control unit 11 repeats this determination process until it determines that a request to obtain destination information has been received (step S200; No).

Then, the control unit 11 determines whether a connection request has been received from the terminal device 30 (step S220).

If it is determined that a connection request has been received from the terminal device 30, the control unit 11 determines whether pairing with the terminal device 30 was successful (step S220; Yes → step S230).

If it is determined that pairing with the terminal device 30 has been successful, the control unit 11 displays a message indicating that pairing has been successful on the display unit 13 (Step S230; Yes → Step S240).

Then, the control unit 11 acquires destination information from the terminal device 30 (step S250). After acquiring the destination information, the control unit 11 disables Bluetooth (registered trademark) and disconnects communication with the terminal device 30 (step S260).

However, if it is determined that a connection request has not been received from the terminal device 30 (step S220; No), or if it is determined that pairing with the terminal device 30 has failed (step S230; No), the control unit 11 determines whether an operation timeout has occurred (step S270), for example, based on the measurement results of a timer (not shown) that has been started in advance.

If it is determined that an operation timeout has occurred, the control unit 11 displays a message on the display unit 13 indicating that acquisition of destination information has failed, and terminates the process (Step S270; Yes → Step S280). However, if it is determined that an operation timeout has not occurred, the control unit 11 returns the process to Step S220 (Step S270; No → Step S220).

Figures 7 and 8 are flowcharts illustrating the display process of the destination information acquired from the terminal device 30 in the process related to Figure 6. The process described in Figures 7 and 8 is executed by the control unit 11 by reading the destination information display program 234, etc.

The control unit 11 obtains a frequency order list and a usage order list according to the job type and terminal ID (step S300).

Next, the control unit 11 acquires display settings related to the display of the destination information acquired from the terminal device 30 (step S310). Here, the display settings are settings that set a priority order list to be applied to the display of the destination information acquired from the terminal device 30. Note that the display settings may be set manually by the user, or, for example, they may be set according to pre-set default settings, similar to the setting items in the system settings.

The control unit 11 determines whether the display setting acquired in step S310 is a setting for displaying destination information in order of frequency, i.e., by applying a frequency order list, or a setting for displaying destination information by applying a usage order list (step S320).

If it is determined that the display setting is frequency order, the control unit 11 sets the frequency order list as the base list to be applied to the display of destination information, and sets the usage order list as the auxiliary list (step S320; Yes → step S330).

On the other hand, if it is determined that the display setting is usage order, the control unit 11 sets the usage order list as the base list to be applied to the display of destination information, and sets the frequency order list as the auxiliary list (step S320; No → step S340).

Next, the control unit 11 begins referencing the frequency-ordered list or usage-ordered list set as the standard in step S330 or step S340, starting with the top-ranked list with the highest priority (step S350).

The control unit 11 determines whether the acquired destination information contains a destination name corresponding to the transmission destination name at the reference location (step S360).

If it is determined that the destination information contains a destination name corresponding to the transmission destination name at the reference location, the control unit 11 adds the corresponding destination name and fax number to the bottom line of the display list (Step S360; Yes → Step S370).

Next, the control unit 11 assigns a referenced check (flag) to the destination information (step S380).

The control unit 11 determines whether all of the destination information has been referenced (step S390).

If it is determined that all of the destination information has been referenced, the control unit 11 obtains the highlighting setting value X and begins reference from the highest priority item in the auxiliary list (Step S390; Yes → Step S400).

Here, the highlight setting value X is a setting value for highlighting a destination name that corresponds to a sending destination name in the auxiliary list along with the corresponding destination name if there is address information (fax number) corresponding to the job type. The setting value X can be set arbitrarily. For example, it is possible to set the auxiliary list to allow reference to the highest priority up to X (top X), and highlight the destination names and faxes included in the Xth place. Another example is to set the maximum number of items to be highlighted by referencing the auxiliary list to X, and highlight up to X of the destination names and faxes included in the above. Here, we will show an example of highlighting the top X items in the auxiliary list.

The control unit 11 determines whether there is a destination name (fax number as address information) in the display list that matches the auxiliary list (step S410).

If it is determined that there is a destination name in the display list that matches the auxiliary list, the control unit 11 highlights the corresponding line in bold (step S410; Yes → step S420).

The control unit 11 determines whether the top X entries in the auxiliary list have been referenced (step S430). Even if it determines that there is no destination name in the display list that matches the auxiliary list, the control unit 11 still determines whether the top X entries in the auxiliary list have been referenced (step S410; No → step S430).

If it is determined that the top X items in the auxiliary list have been referenced, the control unit 11 deletes the priority list and destination information from the working memory (Step S430; Yes → Step S440).

Then, the control unit 11 displays the display list on the display unit 13 (step S450).

The control unit 11 determines whether, for example, the user has selected a destination name or input an instruction to end display for the display list being displayed on the display unit 13 (step S460).

If it is determined that the user has selected a destination name or input an instruction to end the display, the control unit 11 deletes the display list from the working memory and ends the process (step S460; Yes → step S470). Note that if it is determined that the user has not selected a destination name or input an instruction to end the display, the control unit 11 continues to display the display list (step S460; No).

However, if it is determined in step S430 that the top X items in the auxiliary list have not been referenced, the control unit 11 changes the reference position in the auxiliary list to one lower position and returns the process to step S410 (step S430; No → step S480 → step S410).

Also, if it is determined in step S390 that not all of the destination information has been referenced, the control unit 11 determines whether all of the criteria list has been referenced (step S390; No → step S490).

If it is determined that not all items in the reference list have been referenced, the control unit 11 changes the reference position in the reference list to the next lower position and repeats the process from step S360 (step S490; No → step S500 → step S360).

If it is determined that all of the criteria lists have been referenced, the control unit 11 then determines whether all of the destination information has been referenced (Step S490; Yes → Step S510).

If it is determined that all of the destination information has been referenced, the control unit 11 executes the process from step S400 (step S510; Yes → process from step S400 onwards).

On the other hand, if it is determined that not all of the destination information has been referenced, the control unit 11 adds rows of the destination name and fax number to the display list in destination name order for all destination information that has not been checked for reference, and executes the process from step S400 (step S510; No → step S520 → process from step S400 onwards).

[1.3 Operation example]
Next, an example of operation will be described. In this example of operation, a mode using Bluetooth (registered trademark) as a method of communication with the terminal device 30 will be described.

Figure 9 shows an example of the configuration of the home screen W10 of the multifunction device 10. The home screen W10 is a basic screen that is displayed on the display unit 13, for example, when the power is turned on, when the device is in standby mode, when the device is restored from sleep mode, etc., and accepts user input. The home screen W10 includes a system information button B10, a transmission mode selection button B12, a device status display area R10, and a function selection button B14.

The system information button B10 is a button that accepts an instruction to display the system information screen described in the next figure. When the user presses the system information button B10, the control unit 11 displays the system information screen W20.

The transmission mode selection button B12 is a button that accepts the selection of a transmission mode. When the transmission mode selection button B12 is pressed, the control unit 11 displays a settings screen for the corresponding transmission mode. The transmission mode selection button B12 includes a mobile address book button B121. When the mobile address book button B121 is selected by the user, the control unit 11 begins obtaining destination information from the terminal device 30.

The device status display area R10 is an area that displays the device status of the multifunction device 10. The example in Figure 6 shows the remaining toner amount displayed in the device status display area R10.

The function selection button B14 is a button that accepts change instructions, reference instructions, etc. related to the function settings of the multifunction device 10. When the function selection button B14 is pressed, the control unit 11 displays various setting screens (not shown) for executing change instructions or reference instructions for the corresponding function.

Figure 10 shows an example of the configuration of the system information screen W20 displayed by the control unit 11 in response to pressing the system information button B10 on the home screen W10. The system information screen W20 is a screen that displays information about the multifunction device 10 system. The system information screen W20 includes an information display area R12 that displays, for example, information about device maintenance such as paper shortages and firmware updates, as well as machine information such as communication settings. Here, when enabling communication via Bluetooth (registered trademark), the user can enable communication via Bluetooth (registered trademark) by setting the slider S10 provided in the machine information to the "On" position.

Figure 11 shows an example of the configuration of the message screen M10 that is displayed after the mobile address book button B121 of the transmission mode selection button B12 on the home screen W10 is selected and before a connection with the terminal device 30 is established (pairing).

Message screen M10 can be configured in the same way as the message screen displayed between devices attempting to connect using standard Bluetooth (registered trademark). That is, the message screen displays the name of the device to be connected (in the example shown in Figure 11, device ID: 0123456789AB (bb:cc:dd:ee)). Although not shown in Figure 11, a passkey for establishing the connection (e.g., passkey: 1234) may also be displayed. If the user wishes to allow connection with the device, they can establish the connection by entering the passkey.

Figure 12 shows an example of the configuration of the message screen M12 that is displayed after a connection with the terminal device 30 is established. When a connection with the terminal device 30 is established, the control unit 11 starts transferring destination information. The message screen M12 displays a message informing the user of the status of the transfer of destination information.

Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of destination information acquired from a terminal device 30 having the identification ID "0123456789AB" (described below) (corresponding to the processing of step S250 in Figure 6). Destination information T10 is configured by associating address information such as a telephone number, fax number, and email address with a destination name. For example, the destination name "AA Shoten" at the top of destination information T10 is associated with the address information of a telephone number "06-1234-2222," a fax number "06-1234-5678," and an email address "aaa@aaa.co.jp."

The job history information T12 illustrated in Figure 14 is an example of the configuration of history information generated by the control unit 11 that reads the history information generation program 232 for each job execution. Note that the example in Figure 14 shows only history information related to a cooperative job with a terminal device 30 having the terminal ID "0123456789AB" and the job type is FAX (function), but a cooperative job with a terminal device 30 having a different terminal ID may also include different job types (for example, copy function, scan function, etc.).

Job history information T12 includes the date and time, job type, transmission destination name, fax number, and terminal ID. Here, the date and time is the execution date and time when the job was executed. The job type indicates the type (function) of the job executed. The transmission destination name is the name of the fax transmission destination. The fax number is address information corresponding to the transmission destination name. The terminal ID is identification information for identifying the linked terminal device 30. Note that an identification ID used in existing processes may be used as the terminal ID. In this case, for example, a Bluetooth (registered trademark) BD address, or an IC card's Felica (registered trademark) IDm or Mifare UID, etc., can be used.

The job history information T12 shown in Figure 14 is configured by arranging individual pieces of history information in chronological order from top to bottom. The history information at the top represents the most recent history information, and the history information at the bottom represents the oldest history information.

For example, the history information in the top row is history information related to the job type "FAX" executed at the date and time "2021/8/3 11:24", and represents the history of a collaborative job executed for the transmission destination name "BB Trading Company" with the fax number "06-7946-1300" obtained as destination information from the terminal device 30 with the terminal ID "0123456789AB".

Figure 15(a) is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a frequency order list L10 generated from the job history information T12 illustrated in Figure 14 by the control unit 11 that has read the priority information processing program 235. Also, Figure 15(b) is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a usage order list L12 generated from the job history information T12 illustrated in Figure 14 by the control unit 11 that has read the priority information processing program 235.

The frequency-ordered list L10 shown in Figure 15(a) is a list of destination names sorted by the number of fax transmissions in a collaborative job with terminal ID "0123456789AB," i.e., the most cumulative number of uses. For example, in job history information T12, the destination name "EE Store," which has the most cumulative number of uses, is assigned a priority of "1."

On the other hand, the usage order list L12 shown in Figure 15(b) is a list of transmission destination names for a cooperative job with terminal ID "0123456789AB" in descending order of most recent usage date and time (from most recent to most recent). The usage order list can be constructed by listing transmission destination names based on the execution interval of fax transmissions. In this case, the execution interval of fax transmissions can be determined by tallying the number of times the job is executed (the number of times it is used as a transmission destination) in units of time, such as one minute, one day, or one month. If the determination interval is one minute, the usage order list will be arranged in approximately the same order as the execution order of the job (order of usage date and time). Here, for example, in job history information T12, the transmission destination name "BB Shop," which has the most recent usage date and time, is assigned a priority of "1."

In addition, rather than generating all usage order lists for each judgment interval in advance, it is possible to generate only those for the set intervals and then generate new ones each time the settings are changed. However, it is preferable to generate usage order lists for all types of judgment intervals each time a collaborative job with the terminal device 30 is executed, so that unnecessary calculation time does not occur when a usage order list is actually needed. In addition, the most recent usage judgment interval can be associated with the terminal ID (or authenticated user) of the terminal device 30 and managed individually, allowing it to be set according to individual preferences.

Figure 16 is a diagram illustrating one form of the display settings table T14 referenced by the control unit 11 in step S310 of Figure 7. The display settings table T14 sets the priority order list to be applied when displaying destination information obtained from the terminal device 30. As shown in the example of Figure 16, the display settings can be set in association with the job type and terminal ID. For example, the display settings for the job type "FAX" and terminal ID "0123456789AB" are set so that the base list is a "frequency order" list and the auxiliary list is a "use order" list. The control unit 11 can determine the priority order list to be applied to the destination information by referencing the settings in the display settings table T14.

Figure 17(a) shows an example of the configuration of a display list L14 that shows the results of sorting the destination information T10 shown in Figure 13, using the frequency-ordered list L10 shown in Figure 15(a) as the reference list and the top three highlight settings in the reference list. Note that this example of operation corresponds to the processing from step S330 in Figure 7 to step S450 in Figure 8.

In the frequency-ordered list L10 illustrated in Figure 15(a), the destination names "EE Store," "AA Store," "CC Trading Company," "GG Warehouse," "FF Company," "BB Trading Company," and "DD Bookstore" are arranged in descending order of priority, in descending order of cumulative frequency of transmission destinations. After reading the destination information display program 234, the control unit 11 references the frequency-ordered list L10 in descending order of destination priority, determines whether the destination name corresponding to that destination is included in the destination information T10, and generates the display list L14.

In the destination information T10, there are five destination names that correspond (match) with the sending destination names in the frequency order list L10: "EE Store," "AA Store," "CC Trading Company," "GG Warehouse," and "BB Trading Company." The control unit 11 displays these five destination names in descending order in the display list L14. The sending destinations "FF Company" and "DD Bookstore" are not listed in the display list L14 because they are not destination names managed by the destination information T10. Note that the control unit 11 displays destination names ranked 6th and below in the display order, which do not correspond to the frequency order list L10, in the order in which they are listed in the destination information T10.

In addition, in the display list L14, the destination names "AA Store," "CC Trading Company," and "BB Trading Company" are the top three destination names in the auxiliary list, the usage order list L12 (see Figure 15(b)), so the control unit 11 highlights (displays in bold) these destination names and fax numbers.

Figure 17(b) shows an example of the configuration of a display list L16 that shows the results of sorting the destination information T10 shown in Figure 13, using the usage order list L12 shown in Figure 15(b) as the reference list and the top three highlight settings in the reference list. Note that this example of operation corresponds to the processing from step S340 in Figure 7 to step S450 in Figure 8.

In the usage order list L12 illustrated in Figure 15(b), the transmission destination names "BB Trading Company," "AA Store," "CC Trading Company," "DD Bookstore," "GG Warehouse," "EE Store," and "FF Company" are arranged in order of use of the transmission destinations, from highest to lowest priority. After reading the destination information display program 234, the control unit 11 references the usage order list L12 in order of highest to lowest priority of the transmission destination, determines whether the destination name corresponding to the transmission destination is included in the destination information T10, and generates the display list L16.

In the destination information T10, there are five destination names that correspond (match) with the sending destination names in the usage order list L12: "BB Trading Company," "AA Store," "CC Trading Company," "GG Warehouse," and "EE Store." The control unit 11 displays these five destination names in descending order in the display list L16 as the display list L16. The sending destinations "FF Company" and "DD Bookstore" are not listed in the display list L16 because they are not destination names managed by the destination information T10. Note that the control unit 11 displays destination names that do not correspond to the usage order list L12 and are ranked 6th or lower in the display order according to the order in which they are listed in the destination information T10.

In addition, in the display list L16, the destination names "AA Store," "CC Trading Company," and "EE Store" are the top three destination names in the frequency-ordered list L10 (see Figure 15(a)), which serves as an auxiliary list, so the control unit 11 highlights (displays in bold) these destination names and fax numbers.

Figure 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display configuration of the display list L14 (using a frequency-ordered list) illustrated in Figure 17(a). The destination display screen W30 includes a destination display area R14, a selected destination display area R16, and a start button B16.

The destination display area R14 is a display area that displays the destination names and fax numbers shown in the display list L14. Figure 18 shows an example of the destination names and fax numbers displayed in display orders 1 to 5 in the display list L14. Destinations in display orders 6 to 10 can be displayed by operating the slider bar located on the side of the destination display area R14. The user can select the desired destination name displayed in the destination display area R14 to select the destination for fax transmission.

The selected destination display area R16 is a display area that displays the destination name selected in the destination display area R14.

The start button B16 is a button that accepts input of an instruction to send a fax to a destination name selected by the user. Upon selection of the start button B16, the control unit 11 sends a fax to the destination name displayed in the selected destination display area R16.

Figure 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display configuration of the display list L16 (use of the usage order list) illustrated in Figure 17(b). The destination display screen W40 can have the same configuration as the destination display screen W30 illustrated in Figure 18, so its description will be omitted here.

As described above, according to the first embodiment, when an information processing device acquires a list of address information such as telephone numbers and email addresses required for communication from an external device such as a mobile terminal device, the information processing device compares the list with a destination list compiled from past sending history associated with the mobile terminal ID and sorted in order of frequency and order of use, and displays the acquired address information in a list in order of matches from the top, thereby reducing the number of key operations required when selecting highly available addresses as destinations.

In addition, by displaying address information corresponding to the base list and address information corresponding to the auxiliary list in different formats, users can easily identify address information that meets multiple priority criteria.

[2 Second Embodiment]
The second embodiment is a form in which a frequency-ordered list and a use-ordered list are combined and applied as priority-ordered lists.

[2.1 Functional configuration]
The functional configuration of the multifunction peripheral according to the second embodiment can be substantially the same as the functional configuration of the multifunction peripheral 10 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the same functional configurations are denoted by the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

2.2 Processing flow
The processing flow according to the second embodiment will be described using the flowcharts of Figures 20 to 23. Note that processing that can be the same as the processing described in Figures 5 to 8 according to the first embodiment will be assigned the same step numbers and the description thereof may be omitted. Note that in the following description of the processing, FAX will be used as an example of a job type.

Figures 20 and 21 are flowcharts that explain the process of generating and updating a priority list by combining a frequency-ordered list and a usage-ordered list. The process explained in Figures 20 and 21 is executed by the control unit 11 by reading the priority information processing program 235, etc.

In the second embodiment, a list in which destination names are arranged in descending order of the number of times they have been used as destinations (cumulative number of times) at each determination interval, such as one minute, one day, or one month, is described as one form of priority list (usage order list). By applying such a list, it is possible to take into account both frequency of use and order of use as sorting conditions for destination information.

When processing begins, the control unit 11 references the job history information stored in the history information storage area 238 in order of oldest to determine whether there are any collaborative jobs with the terminal device 30 that are not reflected in the priority order list (step S10).

If it is determined that there is a collaborative job with a terminal device 30 that is not reflected in the priority order list stored in the priority information storage area 236, the control unit 11 acquires the terminal ID of the terminal device 30, the job type, and the transmission destination name from the job history information (Step S10; Yes → Step S20). Other items that can identify the destination, such as a fax number, may also be used for comparison, but in this example, the transmission destination name is used as the comparison target. The control unit 11 repeats this determination process until it determines that there is a collaborative job with a terminal device 30 that is not reflected in the priority order list (Step S10; No).

The control unit 11 determines whether the terminal ID acquired in step S20 is a new terminal ID (step S30).

If it is determined that the terminal ID acquired in step S20 is a new terminal ID, the control unit 11 generates an empty priority list based on the terminal ID and job type (step S30; Yes → step S600).

The control unit 11 then determines whether or not it is necessary to generate a priority-ordered list at one-minute intervals (step S610). Whether or not to generate a priority-ordered list at a predetermined interval (unit) may be manually set by the user, or it may be set according to pre-set default settings, similar to the settings in the system settings.

If it is determined that a priority order list with a one-minute determination interval needs to be generated, the control unit 11 obtains a priority order list with a one-minute determination interval according to the terminal ID and job type (Step S610; Yes → Step S620).

Next, the control unit 11 determines whether there is a line in the acquired priority list that matches the transmission destination name for the unreflected collaborative job (step S60).

If it is determined that there is a line in the priority order list that matches the transmission destination name, the control unit 11 notes the cumulative number of times recorded in that line and deletes that line from the priority order list (Step S60; Yes → Step S70).

On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no row in the priority list that matches the transmission destination, the control unit 11 sets the cumulative count to "0" and stores it (Step S60; No → Step S80).

The control unit 11 adds "1" to the cumulative count value noted in step S70 or step S80, sets the cumulative count to that value, inserts a line at the top with the destination name/fax number as address information/cumulative count/usage date and time, and saves the priority list (step S630).

Next, the control unit 11 determines whether it is necessary to generate a priority-ordered list with a one-day determination interval (step S640). Furthermore, if the control unit 11 determines that it is not necessary to generate a priority-ordered list with a one-minute determination interval, it determines whether it is necessary to generate a priority-ordered list with a one-day determination interval (step S610; No → step S640).

If it is determined that a priority order list with a one-day determination interval needs to be generated, the control unit 11 obtains a priority order list with a one-day determination interval according to the terminal ID and job type (step S640; Yes → step S620).

Next, the control unit 11 determines whether there is a line in the acquired priority list that matches the transmission destination for the unreflected collaborative job (step S60).

If it is determined that there is a line in the priority order list that matches the transmission destination, the control unit 11 notes the cumulative number of times recorded in that line and deletes that line from the priority order list (Step S60; Yes → Step S70).

On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no row in the priority list that matches the transmission destination, the control unit 11 sets the cumulative count to "0" and stores it (Step S60; No → Step S80).

The control unit 11 adds "1" to the cumulative count value noted in step S70 or step S80, sets the cumulative count to that value, and checks the rows in the priority order list for which the usage date and time is the same as today, starting from the top of the list. The control unit 11 then inserts rows for the destination name/fax number as the address book/cumulative count/usage date and time so that the priority order list is sorted in cumulative count order when viewed within the same day as today, and saves the priority order list (step S650).

Next, the control unit 11 determines whether it is necessary to generate a priority-ordered list with a one-month determination interval (step S660). If the control unit 11 determines that it is not necessary to generate a priority-ordered list with a one-day determination interval, it determines whether it is necessary to generate a priority-ordered list with a one-month determination interval (step S640; No → step S660).

If it is determined that a priority list with a one-month determination interval needs to be generated, the control unit 11 obtains a priority list with a one-day determination interval according to the terminal ID and job type (Step S660; Yes → Step S620).

Next, the control unit 11 determines whether there is a line in the acquired priority list that matches the transmission destination for the unreflected collaborative job (step S60).

If it is determined that there is a line in the priority order list that matches the transmission destination, the control unit 11 notes the cumulative number of times recorded in that line and deletes that line from the priority order list (Step S60; Yes → Step S70).

On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no row in the priority list that matches the transmission destination, the control unit 11 sets the cumulative count to "0" and stores it (Step S60; No → Step S80).

The control unit 11 adds "1" to the cumulative count value noted in step S70 or step S80, sets the cumulative count to that value, and checks the rows in the priority order list from the top for the month in which the date and time of use is the same as today's. The control unit 11 then inserts rows for the destination name/fax number as the address book/cumulative count/date and time of use so that the priority order list is sorted in cumulative count order when viewed within the same month as today's, and saves the priority order list (step S670).

The control unit 11 records that the update of the priority order list based on the unreflected collaborative job has been completed, and ends the process (step S140). Note that the control unit 11 may return the process to step S10 as necessary.

Figures 22 and 23 are flowcharts illustrating the display process of destination information acquired from the terminal device 30. The process described in Figures 22 and 23 is executed by the control unit 11 by reading the destination information display program 234, etc.

The control unit 11 obtains a priority list based on the job type and terminal ID (step S680).

Next, the control unit 11 begins referencing the priority order list obtained in step S680, starting with the item with the highest priority (step S690).

The control unit 11 determines whether the destination information contains a destination name that corresponds to the transmission destination name at the reference location (step S360).

If it is determined that the destination information contains a destination name corresponding to the transmission destination name at the reference location, the control unit 11 adds the corresponding destination name and fax number to the bottom line of the display list (Step S360; Yes → Step S370).

Next, the control unit 11 assigns a referenced check (flag) to the destination information (step S380).

The control unit 11 determines whether all of the destination information has been referenced (step S390).

If it is determined that all of the destination information has been referenced, the control unit 11 deletes the priority list and the destination information from the working memory (step S390; Yes → step S440).

Then, the control unit 11 displays the display list on the display unit 13 (step S450).

The control unit 11 determines whether, for example, the user has selected a destination name or input an instruction to end display for the display list being displayed on the display unit 13 (step S460).

If it is determined that the user has selected a destination name or input an instruction to end the display, the control unit 11 deletes the display list from the working memory and ends the process (step S460; Yes → step S470). Note that if it is determined that the user has not selected a destination name or input an instruction to end the display, the control unit 11 continues to display the display list (step S460; No).

If it is determined in step S390 that not all of the destination information has been referenced, the control unit 11 determines whether all of the priority list has been referenced (step S390; No → step S490).

If it is determined that not all items in the priority order list have been referenced, the control unit 11 changes the reference position in the priority order list to one position lower and repeats the process from step S360 (step S490; No → step S500 → step S360).

If it is determined that all of the priority list has been referenced, the control unit 11 then determines whether all of the destination information has been referenced (Step S490; Yes → Step S510).

If it is determined that all of the destination information has been referenced, the control unit 11 executes processing from step S440 (step S510; Yes → processing from step S440 onwards).

On the other hand, if it is determined that not all of the destination information has been referenced, the control unit 11 adds a row of the destination name and fax number to the display list in destination name order for the destination information that has not been checked for reference, and executes the process from step S440 (step S510; No → step S520 → process from step S440 onwards).

Figure 24(a) is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the priority order list L18 generated at a judgment interval of one minute in step S610 of Figure 20. Also, Figure 24(b) is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the priority order list L20 generated at a judgment interval of one day in step S640 of Figure 21. Furthermore, Figure 24(c) is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the priority order list L22 generated at a judgment interval of one month in step S660 of Figure 21.

The priority order list L18 is judged at one-minute intervals. Therefore, like the usage order list L12 in the first embodiment, the priority order list L18 arranges the names of destinations in order of their most recent (latest) usage dates and times.

On the other hand, the judgment intervals for priority order list L20 and priority order list L22 are daily or monthly. Therefore, priority order list L20 is sorted in order of the cumulative number of times for each most recent (latest) date of use, and priority order list L22 is sorted in order of the cumulative number of times for each most recent (latest) month of use.

Figure 25(a) is an example of a display list L24 showing the results of sorting destination information T10 using the priority order list L18 illustrated in Figure 24(a). Figure 25(b) is an example of a display list L26 showing the results of sorting destination information T10 using the priority order list L20 illustrated in Figure 24(b). Figure 25(c) is an example of a display list L28 showing the results of sorting destination information T10 using the priority order list L22 illustrated in Figure 24(c). Note that the display list in Figure 25 is an example set up to highlight destination names present in the priority order list.

Figure 26 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display configuration of the display list L24 illustrated in Figure 25(a). The display configuration of the destination display screen W50 illustrated in Figure 26 can be the same as the destination display screen W30 illustrated in Figure 18 of the first embodiment, and detailed description will be omitted. As shown in Figure 26, the destination display area R14 of the destination display screen W50 displays the results sorted according to a priority list based on frequency and order of use, allowing the user to easily select the desired destination.

As described above, according to the second embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, by applying a list of destination names sorted in descending order of the number of times they have been used as destinations (cumulative number of times) at each determination interval, such as one minute, one day, or one month, as a priority list (usage order list), it is possible to take into account both the frequency of use and the order of use as sorting conditions for destination information.

[3 Third Embodiment]
In the third embodiment, the priority information processing program 235 provided in the multifunction device 10 in the first embodiment is implemented on a server device or a cloud (hereinafter simply referred to as the server device), and the multifunction device 10 obtains a priority list from the server device and controls the display of destination information.

[3.1 Functional configuration]
27 is a diagram illustrating the overall configuration of a destination information display control system 100 according to the third embodiment. The destination information display control system 100 includes a server device 50 in addition to the configurations of the multifunction peripheral 10 and the terminal device 30 according to the first or second embodiment. The server device 50 is configured to be able to communicate with the multifunction peripheral 10 and the terminal device 30 via a network.

In the destination information display control system 100 according to the third embodiment, the server device 50 can of course communicate with multiple multifunction peripherals 10 and terminal devices 30. In this case, the server device 50 can generate and update a priority order list for each multifunction peripheral 10 based on communication history, such as job history information, acquired from the multiple multifunction peripherals 10, and provide the priority order list to each multifunction peripheral 10.

The functional configurations of the multifunction device 10 and the terminal device 30 can be substantially the same as those in the first embodiment. Note that for configurations that overlap with functions described below in the functional configuration of the server device 50, those functions can be omitted from the multifunction device 10.

Figure 28 is a functional configuration diagram of the server device 50. The server device 50 includes a control unit 51, a display unit 53, an operation input unit 55, a communication unit 57, and a memory unit 59.

The control unit 51 controls the entire server device 50. The control unit 51 is composed of, for example, one or more computing devices (CPUs, etc.). The control unit 51 realizes its functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the memory unit 59.

The display unit 53 displays various information to the user. The display unit 53 can be configured, for example, as an LCD or organic EL display.

The operation input unit 55 accepts information input by a user, etc. The operation input unit 55 can use input means such as a keyboard or mouse, for example.

The communication unit 57 may be equipped with either a wired or wireless interface, or both, for communicating with other devices such as the multifunction peripheral 10 via a network (NW) such as a LAN, WAN, the Internet, a telephone line, or a fax line.

The storage unit 59 stores various programs and data necessary for the operation of the server device 50. The storage unit 59 can be configured, for example, from a storage device such as RAM, HDD, SSD, or ROM.

In the third embodiment, the storage unit 59 stores a history information acquisition program 591 and a priority information processing program 593, and reserves a history information storage area 595 and a priority information storage area 597.

The history information acquisition program 591 is a program that the control unit 51 reads when acquiring history information such as job history information from the multifunction device 10. After reading the history information acquisition program 591, the control unit 51 controls the communication unit 57 to communicate with the multifunction device 10 and acquire job history information, etc., managed by the multifunction device 10.

The priority information processing program 593 has the same functions as the priority information processing program 235 described in the first embodiment. The control unit 51 reads the priority information processing program 593 and generates or updates a priority order list for displaying destination information on the terminal device 30 from job history information, etc., acquired from the multifunction device 10. The generated or updated priority order list is provided to the multifunction device 10 by either a pull-type or push-type transmission method.

The history information storage area 595 is a storage area that stores job history information and other data obtained from the multifunction device 10.

The priority information storage area 597 is a storage area that stores priority information generated and updated by the control unit 51.

3.2 Processing flow
The server device 50 according to the third embodiment executes the processing described in the flowcharts of Fig. 5 of the first embodiment or Fig. 20 and Fig. 21 of the second embodiment in place of the multifunction device 10. In this case, a process of communicating with the multifunction device 10 and acquiring job history information may be added before step S10, and a process of providing the generated and updated priority list to the multifunction device 10 may be added after step S140.

The multifunction device 10 then uses the priority list acquired from the server device 50 to display the destination information in accordance with the process described in Figures 7 and 8 for the first embodiment or Figures 22 and 23 for the second embodiment. Note that the process of providing the generated and updated priority list from the server device 50 to the multifunction device 10 may be performed only in step S680 of Figure 22.

As described above, according to the third embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first and second embodiments, by generating a priority list based on job history information acquired from the multifunction device on a server device or in the cloud, the burden of processing on the multifunction device can be reduced. Furthermore, by managing job history information on a server device or the like rather than on the multifunction device, and generating and updating the priority list, it is possible to control the display of destination information using the priority list regardless of the location of the multifunction device.

In addition, the server device or the like can also link the generated/updated priority list to the individual ID (or authenticated user) of the terminal device. By configuring it in this way, when the multifunction peripheral obtains destination information from the terminal device, it can automatically obtain from the server device the priority list linked to the individual ID of the terminal device, further improving convenience.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible. In other words, embodiments obtained by combining appropriately modified technical means within the scope of the present invention are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

Furthermore, although the above-mentioned embodiments are described separately for convenience of explanation, they may of course be combined and implemented to the extent technically possible.

In addition, the programs that run on each device in the embodiments are programs that control the CPU and other devices (programs that cause a computer to function) so as to realize the functions of the above-described embodiments. The embodiments assume devices that use multitasking to execute multiple programs simultaneously as needed. Information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in temporary storage devices (e.g., RAM) during processing, and is then stored in various storage devices such as ROMs (Read Only Memory) and HDDs, from which it is read, modified, and written by the CPU as needed.

The recording medium for storing the program may be any of semiconductor media (e.g., ROM, non-volatile memory cards, etc.), optical recording media/magneto-optical recording media (e.g., DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), MO (Magneto Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), CD (Compact Disc), BD (Blu-ray Disc (registered trademark), etc.), and magnetic recording media (e.g., magnetic tape, flexible disks, etc.). Furthermore, not only are the functions of the above-described embodiments realized by executing the loaded program, but the functions of the present invention may also be realized by processing in cooperation with an operating system or other application programs, etc., based on the program's instructions.

Furthermore, when distributing the program on the market, it can be stored on a portable recording medium and distributed, or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the storage device of the server computer is of course also included in the present invention.

10 Multifunction peripheral 11 Control unit 13 Display unit 15 Operation input unit 17 Communication unit 19 Image forming unit 21 Image reading unit 23 Storage unit 30 Terminal device 31 Control unit 33 Display unit 35 Operation input unit 37 Communication unit 39 Storage unit 50 Server device 51 Control unit 53 Display unit 55 Operation input unit 57 Communication unit 59 Storage unit

Claims (5)

a storage unit capable of storing a history of jobs that use destination information;
a communication unit capable of acquiring the destination information from a terminal device;
a display unit capable of displaying the acquired destination information;
a control unit that determines a priority based on a history of jobs linked with the terminal device from the history and controls the display of the destination information on the display unit based on the priority;
Equipped with
The control unit
determining a first priority based on the number of executions of the job and a second priority based on the date and time of use;
When the destination information is displayed by applying the first priority, a display format of the destination information corresponding to the second priority is changed;
When the destination information is displayed by applying the second priority, the display format of the destination information corresponding to the first priority is changed.
1. An information processing device comprising: 2 . The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit, when displaying the destination information, changes the display format to display the destination information in a highlighted display format . The priority is:
3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information is updated every time the job is executed. An information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 ,
a job execution unit that selects a transmission destination from the displayed destination information and executes a job to transmit an image to the selected transmission destination;
an image forming unit that forms the image ;
An image forming apparatus comprising: a storage step of storing a history of jobs that use the destination information;
a communication step of acquiring the destination information from a terminal device;
a display step of displaying the acquired destination information;
a control step of determining a priority based on a history of jobs linked to the terminal device from the history and controlling the display of the destination information based on the priority;
Equipped with
In the control step,
determining a first priority based on the number of executions of the job and a second priority based on the date and time of use;
When the destination information is displayed by applying the first priority, a display format of the destination information corresponding to the second priority is changed;
When the destination information is displayed by applying the second priority, the display format of the destination information corresponding to the first priority is changed.
2. A method for controlling display of destination information, comprising: