JP7538052B2 - Image forming apparatus, image forming system, and control program and control method for image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Description

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

Patent document 1 discloses a technology in which an image forming device such as a printer or multifunction peripheral (MFP) analyzes print data (print job) received from a client device such as a personal computer (PC), and when font substitution occurs, displays a preview image of the page where the font substitution has occurred.

JP 2016-47606 A

Some image forming devices have an office direct print function that accepts the input of application data (so-called office files such as document files and spreadsheet files) created by a specific application software (so-called office software such as word processing software and spreadsheet software) and can execute print processing based on the application data. This office direct print function allows print processing based on application data created by a specific application software (of a certain software company) to be executed directly without going through a print job generation device such as a personal computer. Furthermore, recent office direct print functions can handle not only application data created by a specific application software, but also application data created by compatible application software that is compatible with the specific application software.

In addition, for application data created by compatible application software, the same font (typeface data) as that included in the application data may not be installed (prepared) in the image forming device. In this case, the font is substituted and then the print process is executed. However, when the font is substituted, the print result of the characters corresponding to the substituted font may differ from the intended (original) one, that is, the intended print result may not be obtained. Therefore, if there is a way to execute the print process without substituting the font and applying the original font (standard font) as it is, the user may want to select that way. On the other hand, if there is no particular inconvenience, such as no significant effect on the print result, even if the font is substituted, the substitution of the font may be acceptable. For this reason, if there are multiple options, including a first option in which the font is substituted and then the print process is executed when the same font as that included in the application data is not installed in the image forming device, and a second option in which the print process is executed with the original font applied, it would be extremely beneficial for the user.

The present invention aims to provide a novel technology that, in an image forming device with an office direct print function, when the image forming device does not have the same font as that included in the application data, can present a user with multiple options, including a first option in which the font is substituted and the print process is executed, and a second option in which the print process is executed with the original font applied as is.

To achieve this objective, the present invention includes a first invention relating to an image forming apparatus, a second invention relating to an image forming system including the image forming apparatus, a third invention relating to a control program for the image forming apparatus, and a fourth invention relating to a control method for the image forming apparatus.

The first invention, which relates to an image forming device, has an office direct print function. In other words, the image forming device according to the first invention can accept input of application data created by a specific application software or a compatible application software that is compatible with the application software, and can execute a print process based on the application data.

The image forming device according to the first invention includes a storage means, a font determination means, a presentation means, an operation reception means, and a process execution means. The storage means stores font data for a plurality of types of fonts. The font determination means determines whether or not a non-installed font is included in the application data. A non-installed font refers to a font that is different from the plurality of types of fonts based on the font data stored in the storage means, in other words, the plurality of types of fonts installed in the image forming device, that is, a font that is not installed in the image forming device. The presentation means presents a plurality of options to the user. The operation reception means receives an operation by the user. The process execution means executes a process according to the operation received by the operation reception means.

Specifically, when the font determination means determines that the application data contains a non-installed font, the presentation means presents a first option and a second option. The first option is an option to execute the print process after replacing the non-installed font with a substitute font corresponding to the non-installed font from among multiple types of fonts installed in the image forming device. On the other hand, the second option is an option to execute the print process with the non-installed font applied as is.

Then, for example, when an operation for selecting a first option is accepted by the operation accepting means, the process executing means executes a first process corresponding to the first option. On the other hand, when an operation for selecting a second option is accepted by the operation accepting means, the process executing means executes a second process corresponding to the second option.

The second process includes a transmission process for transmitting the application data to an external support device. The support device is a device that can convert the application data into data in a predetermined format that enables printing processing with the non-installed fonts applied as is.
Furthermore, the presenting means presents a third option in addition to the first and second options. The third option is an option for guiding the user to a first procedure for converting application data into data in a predetermined format by a first device that is an external device other than the support device. When an operation for selecting the third option is accepted by the operation accepting means, the process executing means executes a third process corresponding to the third option.

The second process may further include a receiving process for receiving the specified format data converted by the support device from the support device.

In the first invention, a preview image display means may be further provided. The preview image display means displays a preview image representing an image expected to be formed by a printing process according to the first process or the second process.

In the first invention, the process execution means causes the presentation means to present a first guidance option and a second guidance option as the third process described above . The first guidance option is an option to output first access information for accessing a first website in which the first method is disclosed. The second guidance option is an option to output first method information representing the first method. Then, for example, when an operation for selecting the first guidance option is accepted by the operation acceptance means, the process execution means executes a first guidance process corresponding to the first guidance option. On the other hand, when an operation for selecting the second guidance option is accepted by the operation acceptance means, the process execution means executes a second guidance process corresponding to the second guidance option.

Furthermore, in the first invention, there are cases where it is impossible for the support device to convert the application data into data in a specified format. To deal with such cases, a guidance means may be provided. When it is impossible for the support device to convert the application data into data in a specified format, this guidance means guides the user to a second method for converting the application data into data in a specified format by a second device, which is an external device different from the support device.

Specifically, the guidance means causes the presentation means to present a third guidance option and a fourth guidance option. The third guidance option is an option to output second access information for accessing a second website in which the second method is disclosed. And the fourth guidance option is an option to output second method information representing the second method. Furthermore, for example, when an operation for selecting the third guidance option is accepted by the operation acceptance means, the guidance means causes the process execution means to execute a third guidance process corresponding to the third guidance option. On the other hand, when an operation for selecting the fourth guidance option is accepted by the operation acceptance means, the guidance means causes the process execution means to execute a fourth guidance process corresponding to the fourth guidance option. In this way, the guidance means guides the user to the second method.

In addition, in the first invention, an overflow determination means may be further provided. When an operation for selecting the above-mentioned first option is received by the operation receiving means, the overflow determination means determines whether or not an object included in the application data is likely to overflow the printing range of the printing process based on the application data before the first process is executed by the process execution means.

For example, here, when the overflow determination means determines that there is a possibility that the object will overflow the printing range of the printing process, the presentation means presents the fourth option and the fifth option to the user. The fourth option is an option to execute the printing process with the uninstalled font applied as is. On the other hand, the fifth option is an option to guide the user to a third method for converting application data into data in a specified format by a third device that is a device other than the support device.

Then, when an operation for selecting the fourth option is accepted by the operation accepting means, the process executing means executes the second process described above. On the other hand, when an operation for selecting the fifth option is accepted by the operation accepting means, the process executing means executes the fifth process corresponding to the fifth option.

Furthermore, even when an operation for selecting the first option is accepted by the operation accepting means, if the overflow determination means determines that an object included in the application data is likely to overflow the print range of the print process, the process executing means postpones execution of the above-mentioned first process. On the other hand, if the overflow determination means determines that an object included in the application data is not likely to overflow the print range of the print process, the process executing means executes the first process.

Here, the process execution means may cause the presentation means to present a fifth guidance option and a sixth guidance option as the fifth process. The fifth guidance option is an option to output third access information for accessing a third website in which the third method is disclosed. The sixth guidance option is an option to output third method information representing the third method. Then, for example, when an operation for selecting the fifth guidance option is accepted by the operation acceptance means, the process execution means executes a fifth guidance process corresponding to the fifth guidance option. On the other hand, when an operation for selecting the sixth guidance option is accepted by the operation acceptance means, the process execution means executes a sixth guidance process corresponding to the sixth guidance option.

The image forming system according to the second aspect of the present invention includes the image forming device according to the first aspect of the present invention and the support device described above.

The control program for an image forming device according to the third aspect of the present invention causes a computer of the image forming device to execute a font determination procedure, a presentation procedure, an operation acceptance procedure, and a process execution procedure.

Here, the image forming device has an office direct print function. That is, the image forming device can accept input of application data created by a specific application software or a compatible application software that is compatible with the application software, and can execute a print process based on the application data. In addition, the image forming device includes a storage means. The storage means stores font data for multiple types of fonts.

Then, in the font determination step, it is determined whether or not the application data includes a non-installed font. A non-installed font refers to a font that is different from the multiple types of fonts based on font data stored in the storage means, in other words, the multiple types of fonts installed in the image forming device, that is, a font that is not installed in the image forming device. Then, in the presentation step, multiple options are presented to the user. Furthermore, in the operation reception step, an operation by the user is accepted. Then, in the process execution step, a process is executed according to the operation accepted by the operation reception means.

Specifically, when the font determination procedure determines that the application data contains a non-installed font, the presentation procedure presents a first option and a second option. The first option is an option to execute the print process after replacing the non-installed font with a substitute font corresponding to the non-installed font from among multiple types of fonts installed in the image forming device. On the other hand, the second option is an option to execute the print process with the non-installed font applied as is.

Then, in the process execution procedure, when an operation for selecting a first option is accepted by the operation reception procedure, a first process corresponding to the first option is executed. On the other hand, when an operation for selecting a second option is accepted by the operation reception procedure, the process execution procedure executes a second process corresponding to the second option.

The second process includes a transmission process for transmitting the application data to an external support device. The support device is a device that can convert the application data into data in a predetermined format that enables printing processing with the non-installed fonts applied as is.
Furthermore, in the presentation step, in addition to the first and second options, a third option is presented. The third option is an option for guiding the user to a first procedure for converting application data into data in a predetermined format by a first device that is an external device other than the support device. When an operation for selecting the third option is accepted by the operation acceptance step, a third process corresponding to the third option is executed in the process execution step.

The control method for an image forming device according to the fourth aspect of the present invention includes a font determination step, a presentation step, an operation reception step, and a process execution step.

Here, the image forming device has an office direct print function. That is, the image forming device can accept input of application data created by a specific application software or a compatible application software that is compatible with the application software, and can execute a print process based on the application data. In addition, the image forming device includes a storage means. The storage means stores font data for multiple types of fonts.

Then, in the font determination step, it is determined whether or not the application data includes a non-installed font. A non-installed font refers to a font that is different from the multiple types of fonts based on font data stored in the storage means, in other words, the multiple types of fonts installed in the image forming device, that is, a font that is not installed in the image forming device. Then, in the presentation step, multiple options are presented to the user. Furthermore, in the operation reception step, an operation by the user is accepted. Then, in the process execution step, a process is executed according to the operation accepted by the operation reception means.

Specifically, when the font determination step determines that the application data contains a non-installed font, the presentation step presents a first option and a second option. The first option is an option for executing the print process after replacing the non-installed font with a substitute font corresponding to the non-installed font from among multiple types of fonts installed in the image forming device. On the other hand, the second option is an option for executing the print process with the non-installed font applied as is.

Then, in the process execution step, when an operation for selecting a first option is accepted in the operation acceptance step, a first process corresponding to the first option is executed. On the other hand, when an operation for selecting a second option is accepted in the operation acceptance step, a second process corresponding to the second option is executed in the process execution step.

The second process includes a transmission process for transmitting the application data to an external support device. The support device is a device that can convert the application data into data in a predetermined format that enables printing processing with the non-installed fonts applied as is.
Furthermore, in the presenting step, in addition to the first option and the second option, a third option is presented. This third option is an option for guiding the user to a first procedure for converting application data into data in a predetermined format by a first device that is an external device other than the support device. When an operation for selecting this third option is accepted in the operation accepting step, a third process corresponding to the third option is executed in the process executing step.

According to the present invention, in an image forming device having an office direct print function, when the image forming device does not have the same font included in the application data, it is possible to present the user with multiple options, including a first option in which the font is substituted and then the print process is executed, and a second option in which the print process is executed with the original font applied as is. This is extremely beneficial for the user.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a multifunction peripheral according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the first message screen in the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a preview screen in the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a memory map conceptually showing the internal configuration of the RAM of the main storage unit in the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram conceptually showing the configuration of the substitute font table in the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a flow diagram showing a part of the flow of the font substitution control task in the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a flow diagram showing the flow of the remaining part of the font substitution control task in the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a flow diagram showing the details of the network utilization process in the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a flow diagram showing the flow of a print support task in the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first message screen in the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a second message screen in the second embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a QR code presentation screen in the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a conversion procedure print confirmation screen in the second embodiment. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a part of the flow of the font substitution control task in the second embodiment. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a third message screen in the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a part of the flow of the font substitution control task in the third embodiment. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a fourth message screen in the fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a part of the flow of the font substitution control task in the fourth embodiment.

[First embodiment]
A first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to an example of a multifunction peripheral 10 shown in FIG.

The multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment has multiple functions, such as a copy function, a printer function, an image scanner function, and a fax function. To this end, the multifunction device 10 has an image reading unit 12, an image processing unit 14, an image forming unit 16, and a paper feed unit 18. In addition, the multifunction device 10 has a control unit 20, an auxiliary memory unit 22, an external storage medium communication unit 24, and a communication unit 26. Furthermore, the multifunction device 10 has an operation display unit 28. These are connected to each other via a common bus 30.

The image reading unit 12 is an example of an image reading means. That is, the image reading unit 12 performs image reading processing by reading an image of an original (not shown) and outputting two-dimensional read image data corresponding to the read image. For this purpose, the image reading unit 12 is provided with an original table (not shown) on which the original is placed. The image reading unit 12 also includes an image reading unit including a light source, multiple mirrors, an imaging lens, a line sensor, etc. (not shown), and a drive mechanism (not shown) for moving the image reading position by the image reading unit. Furthermore, the image reading unit 12 is provided with an original pressing cover (not shown) for pressing down the original placed on the original table. Note that the original pressing cover may be provided with an automatic document feeder (ADF) (not shown), which is one of the optional devices.

The image processing unit 14 is an example of an image processing means. That is, the image processing unit 14 performs appropriate image processing on various image data such as the above-mentioned scanned image data. Such an image processing unit 14 has an image processing execution means such as a DSP (not shown). The image processing by this image processing unit 14 includes processing for generating preview image data, which will be described later.

The image forming unit 16 is an example of an image forming means. That is, the image forming unit 16 performs image forming processing, in other words, printing processing, in which an image based on appropriate image data such as data after image processing by the image processing unit 14 is formed on paper as a sheet-like image recording medium (not shown). This printing processing is performed, for example, by a known electrophotographic method (Carlson process method). For this reason, the image forming unit 16 includes a photosensitive drum, a charging device, an exposure device, a developing device, a transfer device, a fixing device, a cleaning device, a static elimination device, and the like (not shown). The paper after the printing processing by the image forming unit 16, that is, the printed matter, is discharged to a paper discharge tray (not shown). Note that the image forming unit 16 is not limited to the electrophotographic method, and may perform printing processing by other methods such as an inkjet method.

The paper feed unit 18 is an example of a paper feed means. That is, the paper feed unit 18 has one or more, for example, multiple, paper feed cassettes (not shown). Each paper feed cassette stores paper of an appropriate specified size. The paper feed unit 18 also includes one or more, for example, one, manual feed tray (not shown). Paper of an appropriate size is also set in this manual feed tray. The paper feed unit 18 then uses one of the paper feed cassettes or manual feed tray as a paper feed source and supplies paper one sheet at a time from the paper feed source to the image forming unit 16.

The control unit 20 is an example of a control means that is responsible for the overall control of the multifunction device 10. For this reason, the control unit 20 has a computer, such as a CPU 20a, as a control execution means. In addition, the control unit 20 has a main memory unit 20b as a main memory means that can be directly accessed by the CPU 20a. The main memory unit 20b includes, for example, a ROM and a RAM (not shown). Of these, the ROM stores a control program for controlling the operation of the CPU 20a, known as firmware. The RAM constitutes a working area and a buffer area when the CPU 20a executes processing based on the control program.

The auxiliary memory unit 22 is an example of an auxiliary storage means. That is, various data including various image data such as the above-mentioned scanned image data are appropriately stored in the auxiliary memory unit 22. Such an auxiliary memory unit 22 has, for example, a hard disk drive (not shown). Additionally, the auxiliary memory unit 22 may have a rewritable non-volatile memory such as a flash memory.

The external storage medium communication unit 24 is an example of an external storage medium communication means. That is, the external storage medium communication unit 24 has an attachment unit (not shown) to which a portable external storage medium 50 can be attached. The external storage medium communication unit 24 is responsible for two-way communication processing with the external storage medium 50 attached to the attachment unit. The external storage medium 50 may be semiconductor media such as a USB memory or an SD memory card, or disk-type media such as a CD or a DVD.

The communication unit 26 is an example of a communication means. That is, the communication unit 26 is connected to an external device such as a management server 70 via a communication network 60, and is responsible for two-way communication processing with the external device. The communication network 60 referred to here includes a LAN, the Internet, a public switched telephone network, and the like. The LAN also includes a wireless LAN, particularly Wi-Fi (registered trademark). This wireless LAN is used to connect to an external device (not shown) that has a communication function via the wireless LAN, and is particularly used to connect to a mobile communication terminal such as a smartphone or tablet. The management server 70 is installed, for example, in a management center (not shown). This management server 70 has a font database (font DB) 70a in which font data for various fonts is stored. The management server 70, including this font database 70a, will be described in detail later.

The operation display unit 28 is a so-called operation panel, and has a touch panel 28a as an example of an operation receiving means and a display 28b as an example of a display means, that is, has a display 28b with a touch panel 28a. That is, the touch panel 28a is a substantially transparent rectangular sheet-like member, and the display 28b has a display surface with a substantially rectangular shape. The touch panel 28a is arranged so as to overlap the display surface of the display 28b, thereby forming the display 28b with the touch panel 28a. The touch panel 28a is, for example, a capacitive panel, but is not limited to this, and may be other types of panels such as an electromagnetic induction type, a resistive film type, or an infrared type. The display 28b is, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), but is not limited to this, and may be other types of displays such as an organic electroluminescence (EL) display. In addition to the touch panel 28a, the operation display unit 28 has appropriate hardware switch means such as a push button switch (not shown). Additionally, in addition to the display 28b, the operation display unit 28 has appropriate light-emitting means such as a light-emitting diode (LED) (not shown).

The multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment is installed in a public space such as a convenience store or supermarket, on the premise that it will be used by an unspecified number of users, and in particular, on the premise that it will be used for a fee. A multifunction device 10 intended for such use includes elements not shown in FIG. 1, such as a cash processing unit for settling the usage fee for the multifunction device 10 in cash, and a ticket printer for printing various tickets, including receipts, for such settlement. However, since the elements not shown in FIG. 1 are not directly related to the gist of the present invention, detailed explanations of them will be omitted here.

Now, the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment has an office direct print function that can accept the input of application data created by a specific application software and execute print processing based on that application data. This office direct print function allows print processing based on application data created by a specific application software to be executed directly without going through a print job generating device such as a personal computer. Furthermore, the office direct print function in the first embodiment is capable of handling not only application data created by a specific application software, but also application data created by compatible application software that is compatible with the specific application software. This is extremely useful in applications that are assumed to be used by an unspecified number of users, as mentioned above.

The application data is imported, for example, from an external storage medium 50. The application data can also be imported from a mobile communication terminal. Furthermore, the application data can also be imported from a cloud server (not shown) that is separate from the management server 70 or that is also the management server 70. In other words, the application data is imported from an appropriate data source such as the external storage medium 50, a mobile communication terminal, or a cloud server.

Here, for application data created by compatible application software, the same font as that included in the application data may not be installed on the multifunction device 10. In this case, the font is substituted and then the printing process is executed. However, when a font is substituted, the printed result of the characters corresponding to the substituted font may differ from that of the original (manuscript), that is, the print result may not be the same as the original. Therefore, if there is a way to execute the printing process without substituting the font, that is, with the original font applied as is, the user may want to select that way. On the other hand, if there is no particular inconvenience, such as there being no significant effect on the print result even if the font is substituted, the substitution of the font may be allowed. For this reason, if there are multiple options, including a first option in which the font is substituted and then the printing process is executed when the same font as that included in the application data is not installed on the multifunction device 10, and a second option in which the printing process is executed with the original font applied as is, it would be extremely beneficial for the user.

Therefore, according to the multifunction device 10 of the first embodiment, in the office direct print function, if the multifunction device 10 does not have the same font as that included in the application data, a first message screen 100 as shown in FIG. 2 is displayed on the display 28b. This first message screen 100 is, for example, a modal dialog.

In this first message screen 100, for example, an appropriate attention mark 102 with an exclamation point (!) is placed in the center of the top. Then, below the attention mark 102, an appropriate character string 104 is placed containing content to inform the user that a specific process is required for the user's (customer's) application data (file) due to fonts. Then, below the character string 104, an appropriate character string 106 is placed which succinctly expresses the execution of printing process after substituting a font, which is one of the specific processes referred to here. In addition, below the character string 106, an appropriate character string 108 is placed which expresses a note when the printing process is executed after substituting a font. This character string 108 contains content to inform the user that when a font is substituted, the printed result of the characters (corresponding to the substituted font) may differ from the original.

Furthermore, below the character string 108, an appropriate character string 110 is arranged, which succinctly expresses the execution of printing processing using a network system, which is a predetermined process different from that expressed by the aforementioned character string 106. Executing printing processing using a network system here refers to receiving support from the management server 70 in order to enable execution of printing processing with the original font applied as is. Then, below the character string 110, an appropriate character string 112 is arranged, which expresses a note when executing printing processing using a network system. This character string 112 includes content that informs the user that, while using the network system allows for the production of print results that are identical to the original, an additional fee is required.

In addition, three operation keys 114, 116, and 118 are arranged side by side below the character string 112, in other words, at the bottom of the first message screen 100. Of these three operation keys 114, 116, and 116, the leftmost operation key 114 is a "print with font substitution" key for instructing to execute a print process after substituting a font, which is one of the above-mentioned predetermined processes, in other words, corresponding to the character string 106. The central operation key 116 is a "print using a network system" key for instructing to execute a print process using a network system, which is another predetermined process, in other words, corresponding to the character string 110. The rightmost operation key 118 is a "cancel" key for instructing to postpone the execution of the print process, in other words, to end the operation on the first message screen 100.

That is, according to the first message screen 100, three options are presented to the user: an option to substitute the font and then execute the print process, an option to execute the print process using a network system, and an option to postpone the print process. Of these, the option to substitute the font and then execute the print process corresponds to the first option described above. And the option to execute the print process using a network system corresponds to the second option described above. In addition, another option to postpone the print process is presented to the user.

In this first message screen 100, for example, the "Print with Substitute Font" key 114 is operated (pressed). Then, the first message screen 100 disappears. Then, a preview screen 200 as shown in FIG. 3 is displayed on the display 28b. Strictly speaking, when the "Print with Substitute Font" key 114 is operated, the image processing unit 14 performs image processing to generate the above-mentioned preview image data based on the application data in response to this. During this time, a processing message screen (not shown) indicating that a predetermined process including image processing by the image processing unit 14 is being performed is displayed on the display 28b. That is, when the "Print with Substitute Font" key 114 is operated, the first message screen 100 disappears and a processing message screen is displayed on the display 28b. Then, when the preview image data is generated by the image processing unit 14, the preview screen 200 is displayed on the display 28b instead of the processing message screen.

As shown in FIG. 3, on the preview screen 200, for example, a character string 202 is placed in a position toward the upper left. This character string 202 includes a message to inform the user that the print process about to be executed is expected to produce a print result (output image) as shown in a preview image 206, which will be described later. Then, below the character string 202, another character string 204 is placed. This character string 204 includes a message to the user to operate a "Next" key 208, which will be described later, if the user agrees (if there is no problem) that the print result as shown in the preview image 206 will be produced. Furthermore, below the character string 204, in other words, at a position approximately in the center of the preview screen 200, a preview image 206 is placed.

Preview image 206 is a reduced image of the image expected as a printed result (anticipated image), and is arranged based on the preview image data generated by image processing unit 14 described above. Note that FIG. 3 shows an example in which preview image 206 is arranged based on application data (document file) created by a certain word processing software as compatible application software, or more precisely, based on the application data after font replacement. Although it is not clear from FIG. 3, the character portion in preview image 206 corresponding to the font replacement portion will be slightly different from the original. Also, if the application data has been created by application software other than word processing software, such as spreadsheet software, preview image 206 is arranged based on the application data, or more precisely, based on the application data after font replacement.

Furthermore, a "Next" key 208 is disposed at an appropriate position on the preview screen 200, for example, near the lower right corner of the preview screen 200. This "Next" key 208 is an operation key for instructing to proceed to the next step required to execute the print process. In addition, a "Back" key 210 is disposed near the lower left corner of the preview screen 200. This "Back" key 210 is an operation key for instructing to return to the screen immediately before the preview screen 200, that is, the state in which the first message screen 100 is displayed again on the display 28b. In addition, an "Exit" key 212 is disposed near the upper right corner of the preview screen 200. This "Exit" key 212 is an operation key for instructing to end use of the office direct print function after forgoing execution of the print process.

When such a preview screen 200 is displayed, the user can check, particularly from the preview image 206, what kind of print result will be obtained before the print process is executed. Here, for example, if the user agrees that the print result shown in the preview image 206 will be obtained, the user can proceed to the next step required to execute the print process by operating the "Next" key 208. In this case, instead of the preview screen 200, a suitable operation screen (not shown) for proceeding to the next step, or more precisely, for proceeding to the next step required to execute the print process based on the application data after the font has been substituted, is displayed on the display 28b.

In contrast, when the "Back" key 210 is operated, for example, the first message screen 100, which is the screen immediately before the preview screen 200, is displayed again on the display 28b, instead of the preview screen 200. This allows the user to select one of three options again: a first option of executing the printing process after substituting the aforementioned font, a second option of executing the printing process using a network system, or another option of postponing the printing process.

On the other hand, when the "Exit" key 212 is operated, the execution of the print process is postponed. Then, instead of the preview screen 200, an end message screen (not shown) indicating that use of the office direct print function is being terminated is displayed on the display 28b for a certain period of time (approximately a few seconds). After that, a home screen (also called a "portal screen") (not shown) is displayed on the display 28b.

Returning to FIG. 2, for example, suppose that the "Print using network system" key 116 on the first message screen 100 is operated. Then, the first message screen 100 disappears. Then, a communication in progress message screen (not shown) is displayed on the display 28b. At the same time, the MFP 10 requests the management server 70 for assistance in enabling the execution of the print process with the original font applied as is, including the transmission of application data from the MFP 10 to the management server 70.

The management server 70 is a management device for managing the multifunction device 10, but is also a support device for supporting the printing process by the multifunction device 10. That is, the management server 70 has the font database 70a as described above, and the font database 70a stores font data for various fonts, including fonts that are not installed in the multifunction device 10. When the management server 70 receives a support request from the multifunction device 10, it extracts from the font database 70a the same font as that included in the application data received in association with the support request, that is, the original font. Then, the management server 70 converts the application data into data in a predetermined format that enables printing with the original font included in the application data applied as is. This predetermined format data is, for example, a PDF file, and more precisely, a PDF file in which the original font is embedded. The management server 70 responds to the support request from the multifunction device 10, including sending the converted predetermined format data to the multifunction device 10.

When the multifunction device 10 receives the response from the management server 70, the preview screen 200 (see FIG. 3) is displayed on the display 28b instead of the aforementioned communication message screen. At this time, the image processing unit 14 performs image processing to generate preview image data based on the predetermined format data, and a preview image 206 based on the preview image data is arranged on the preview screen 200. Such a preview image 206 is an image in which the original font is applied (reflected) as it is. Then, for example, when the "Next" key 208 is operated, the aforementioned operation screen for proceeding to the next step, which is necessary to execute the print process based on the predetermined format data, that is, necessary to execute the print process with the original font applied as it is, is displayed on the display 28b. Note that, for example, when the "Back" key 210 is operated, the first message screen 100 is displayed on the display 28b instead of the preview screen 200, as described above. Then, when the "Exit" key 212 is operated, as described above, the execution of the print process is postponed, and an end message screen is displayed on the display 28b for a certain period of time instead of the preview screen 200, and then the home screen is displayed on the display 28b.

Returning to FIG. 2, suppose the "Cancel" key 118 on the first message screen 100 is operated. Then, the first message screen 100 disappears. The execution of the print process is postponed. Then, a data acquisition screen (not shown) for selecting and importing application data to be used in the print process from an appropriate data source such as the external storage medium 50 is displayed on the display 28b. This allows the user to redo the previous operations as appropriate, including selecting and importing different application data from an appropriate data source such as the external storage medium 50.

When all fonts included in the application data are installed in the multifunction device 10, that is, when fonts are not substituted, the first message screen 100 and the preview screen 200 are not displayed. In this case, as when the "Next" key 208 on the preview screen 200 is operated, an operation screen is displayed on the display 28b to proceed to the next step required to execute the print process. An example of a case in which fonts are not substituted in this way is when the application data is created by a specific application software that is not a compatible application software. In addition, when the application data is a so-called environment-independent file that does not depend on the handling environment, such as a PDF file, fonts are not substituted. Furthermore, even if the application data is created by a compatible application software, fonts are not substituted if all fonts included in the application data are installed in the multifunction device 10. And, naturally, fonts are not substituted if the application data does not contain fonts in the first place.

Figure 4 shows a memory map 300 that conceptually represents the internal RAM structure of the main memory unit 20b.

As shown in this memory map 300, the RAM has a program memory area 310 and a data memory area 350. The above-mentioned control programs are stored in the program memory area 310. Specifically, the control programs include a display control program 312, an operation detection program 314, an image reading control program 316, an image processing control program 318, an image formation control program 320, a paper feed control program 322, an auxiliary storage control program 324, an external storage medium communication control program 326, and a communication control program 328. In addition, the control programs include an office direct print program (also called an "office direct lettering program") 330 and a font substitution control program 332.

The display control program 312 is a program for generating display screen data required to display various screens including the first message screen 100 on the display 28b. The operation detection program 314 is a program for detecting the operation state of the touch panel 28a. The image reading control program 316 is a program for controlling the image reading unit 12. The image processing control program 318 is a program for controlling the image processing unit 14. The image forming control program 320 is a program for controlling the image forming unit 16. The paper feed control program 322 is a program for controlling the paper feed unit 18. The auxiliary memory control program 324 is a program for controlling the auxiliary memory unit 22. The external storage medium communication control program 326 is a program for controlling the external storage medium communication unit 24. The communication control program 328 is a program for controlling the communication unit 26. The office direct print program 330 is a program for realizing the office direct print function. The font substitution control program 332 is a program that causes the CPU 20a to execute the font substitution control task described below.

On the other hand, various data are stored in the data storage area 350. This various data includes display image generation data 352, operation data 354, font data 356, table data 358, etc.

The display image generation data 352 is data such as polygon data and texture data used to generate display screen data based on the above-mentioned display control program 312. The operation data 354 is data representing the operation state of the touch panel 28a, and more specifically, is time-series data representing the touch position (coordinates) on the touch panel 28a. The font data 356 is font data, and more specifically, is data on multiple types of Japanese and alphanumeric fonts. The table data 358 includes data on various tables, and in particular includes the alternative font table 358a shown in FIG. 5.

The substitute font table 358a is a table that summarizes the correspondence between fonts not included in the font data 356, that is, non-installed fonts that are not installed in the multifunction device 10, and which fonts included in the font data 356 are to be substituted for those fonts. In other words, when a non-installed font is included in application data that is used for printing processing using the office direct print function, the correspondence between which font included in the font data 356 is to be substituted for that non-installed font is summarized in the substitute font table 358a.

As described above, the CPU 20a operates according to the control program, and in particular executes a font substitution control task when performing printing processing using the office direct print function. The flow of this font substitution control task is shown in Figures 6 and 7. The font substitution control task is executed according to the font substitution control program 332. The font substitution control task is executed in response to application data to be used in printing processing using the office direct print function being acquired from an appropriate data source such as the external storage medium 50. In other words, the font substitution control task is executed after application data is acquired from an appropriate data source using the aforementioned data acquisition screen, or more precisely, a data acquisition task executed before the font substitution control task. A detailed explanation of the data acquisition task, including illustrations thereof, will be omitted.

According to this font substitution control task, the CPU 20a first analyzes the application data to be used for printing using the office direct print function in step S1, and analyzes attribute information, such as the file extension, of the application data. The CPU 20a then advances the process to step S3.

In step S3, the CPU 20a determines whether the application data to be printed is an environment-independent file such as a PDF file, based on the analysis result in step S1. If the application data is an environment-independent file (S3: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S5. On the other hand, if the application data is not an environment-independent file (S3: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S7, which will be described later.

In step S5, the CPU 20a starts executing the next task required to execute the print process based on the application data. As a result, the operation screen for proceeding to the next step described above is displayed on the display 28b. With this, the CPU 20a ends the font substitution control task.

In contrast, when the CPU 20a advances the process from step S3 to step S7, it determines in step S7 whether the application data was created by a specified application software. This determination in step S7 is also made based on the analysis result in step S1. In step S7, for example, if the application data was created by a specified application software (S7: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S5. On the other hand, if the application data was not created by a specified application software, that is, if the application data was created by a compatible application software (S7: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S9.

In step S9, the CPU 20a determines whether the application data contains a font that is not included in the font data 356, i.e., whether the application data contains a non-installed font. This determination in step S9 is also made based on the analysis result in step S1. For example, if the application data does not contain a non-installed font (S9: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S5. On the other hand, if the application data contains a non-installed font (S9: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S11. Note that, naturally, if the application data does not contain a font, the CPU 20a also advances the process to step S5.

In step S11, the CPU 20a displays the first message screen 100 on the display 28b. The CPU 20a then advances the process to step S13.

In step S13, the CPU 20a waits for the first message screen 100 to accept any operation (S13: NO). Then, when the first message screen 100 accepts any operation (S13: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S15.

In step S15, the CPU 20a determines whether the operation accepted in step S13 is an operation on the "Print with Substitute Font" key 114 on the first message screen 100. For example, if the operation accepted in step S13 is an operation on the "Print with Substitute Font" key 114 (S15: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S17. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S13 is not an operation on the "Print with Substitute Font" key 114 (S15: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S25, which will be described later.

In step S17, the CPU 20a displays the aforementioned processing message screen on the display 28b, or more precisely, after erasing the first message screen 100, the CPU 20a displays the processing message screen on the display 28b. The CPU 20a then advances the process to step S19.

In step S19, the CPU 20a replaces the non-installed fonts included in the application data with fonts (alternative fonts) that conform to the alternative font table 358a while referring to the alternative font table 358a. The CPU 20a then advances the process to step S21.

In step S21, the CPU 20a generates preview image data based on the application data after the font has been substituted, and strictly speaking controls the image processing unit 14 to do so. In accordance with this, the image processing unit 14 performs image processing, including rasterization, to generate the preview image data. The CPU 20a then advances the process to step S23.

In step S23, the CPU 20a displays the preview screen 200 on the display 28b instead of the processing message screen. In this case, the CPU 20a arranges the preview image 206 on the preview screen 200 based on the preview image data generated in step S21. The CPU 20a then advances the process to step S33, which will be described later.

In response to this, when the CPU 20a advances the process from step S15 to step S25, it determines in step S25 whether the operation accepted in step S13 is an operation on the "Print using a network system" key 116 on the first message screen 100. For example, if the operation accepted in step S13 is an operation on the "Print using a network system" key 116 (S25: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S27. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S13 is not an operation on the "Print using a network system" key 116, that is, an operation on the "Cancel" key 118 (S25: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S31, which will be described later.

In step S27, the CPU 20a displays the aforementioned communication in progress message screen on the display 28b. The CPU 20a then advances the process to step S29.

In step S29, the CPU 20a executes a network usage process, which is a subtask (subroutine) of the font substitution control task. The network usage process in step S29 will be described in detail later, but in the network usage process in step S29, the CPU 20a requests the management server 70 for assistance in enabling the execution of the print process with the original font applied as is. The CPU 20a then accepts a response to this assistance request from the management server 70. This response from the management server 70 includes a PDF file as the aforementioned predetermined format data. When the CPU 20a accepts the response from the management server 70, it proceeds to step S21.

In this case, in step S21, the CPU 20a generates preview image data based on the data in the specified format, and strictly speaking controls the image processing unit 14 to do so. Furthermore, in step S23, the CPU 20a displays the preview screen 200 on the display 28b instead of the communication in progress message. At this time, the CPU 20a arranges the preview image 206 on the preview screen 200 based on the preview image data generated in step S21, that is, based on the preview image data based on the data in the specified format. The CPU 20a then advances the process to step S33, which will be described later.

Furthermore, when the CPU 20a advances the process from step S25 to step S31, in step S31, the CPU 20a starts execution of the data acquisition task, which is the task preceding the font substitution control task, in order to display the data acquisition screen on the display 28b. As a result, the first message screen 100 disappears, and the data acquisition screen is displayed on the display 28b. With this, the CPU 20a ends the font substitution control task.

When the CPU 20a advances the process from step S23 to step S33, the CPU 20a waits for the preview screen 200 to accept any operation in step S33 (S33: NO). Then, when the preview screen 200 accepts any operation (S33: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S35.

In step S35, the CPU 20a determines whether the operation accepted in step S33 is an operation on the "Next" key 208 on the preview screen 200. For example, if the operation accepted in step S33 is an operation on the "Next" key 208 (S35: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S5 described above. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S33 is not an operation on the "Next" key 208 (S35: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S37.

In step S37, the CPU 20a determines whether the operation accepted in the aforementioned step S33 is an operation on the "Back" key 210 on the preview screen 200. For example, if the operation accepted in step S33 is an operation on the "Back" key 210 (S37: YES), the CPU 20a returns the process to the aforementioned step S11. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S33 is not an operation on the "Back" key 210, that is, an operation on the "Exit" key 212 (S37: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S39.

In step S39, the CPU 20a executes a termination process to terminate the office direct print function. The termination process in step S39 includes a process of displaying the aforementioned termination message screen on the display 28b for a certain period of time instead of the preview screen 200, and then displaying the aforementioned home screen on the display 28b. With this, the CPU 20a terminates the font substitution control task.

The network usage process in step S29 described above will now be described in detail with reference to FIG. 8. According to this network usage process, the CPU 20a first executes a support request process in step S101. In the support request process in step S101, the CPU 20a requests support from the management server 70, including sending application data to the management server 70, to enable execution of the print process with the original font applied as is. The CPU 20a then advances the process to step S103.

In step S103, the CPU 20a executes a response reception process. In the response reception process in step S103, the CPU 20a receives a response from the management server 70 to the support request in step S101. The response from the management server 70 includes a PDF file as the aforementioned predetermined format data. Upon receiving the response from the management server 70, the CPU 20a ends the network usage process.

While this network utilization process is executed by the CPU 20a, the management server 70 (strictly speaking, the computer of the management server 70) executes a printing support task. The flow of this printing support task is shown in FIG. 9. The printing support task is executed in response to an access request from the multifunction device 10 (CPU 20a).

According to this printing support task, the management server 70 first executes a request reception process in step S201. In the request reception process in step S201, the management server 70 receives a support request from the multifunction device 10, including receiving application data sent from the multifunction device 10. The management server 70 then proceeds to step S203.

In step S203, the management server 70 executes a response process. In the response process in step S203, the management server 70 converts the application data received in the request reception process in step S201 into data in a prescribed format that enables the execution of the print process with the original font applied as is. As described above, the prescribed format data is, for example, a PDF file. The management server 70 then responds to the support request from the multifunction device 10 by sending the converted prescribed format data to the multifunction device 10. With this, the management server 70 ends the print support task.

As described above, according to this first embodiment, and particularly according to the office direct print function, if the same font contained in the application data is not installed in the multifunction device 10, the first message screen 100 (see FIG. 2) is displayed on the display 28b. That is, the user is presented with three options: a first option to substitute the font and then execute the printing process; a second option to execute the printing process using a network system; and another option to postpone the printing process. This is extremely beneficial for the user.

In this first embodiment, the RAM of the main memory unit 20b in which the font data 356 (see FIG. 4) is stored is an example of a storage means according to the present invention. Strictly speaking, the font data 356 is stored in the ROM of the main memory unit 20b or the auxiliary memory unit 22, and then expanded in the RAM of the main memory unit 20b. Therefore, the ROM of the main memory unit 20b or the auxiliary memory unit 22 is also an example of a storage means according to the present invention.

The CPU 20a that executes steps S1, S3, S7, and S9 in the font substitution control task (see FIG. 6) is an example of a font determination means according to the present invention. In addition, the CPU 20a that executes step S11 in the font substitution control task (see FIG. 7), that is, the CPU 20a that displays the first message screen 100 on the display 28b, cooperates with the display 28b to constitute an example of a presentation means according to the present invention.

Furthermore, the appropriate processing executed by the CPU 20a in response to the acceptance of the operation of the "Print using font substitution" key 114 on the first message screen 100 is an example of the first processing according to the present invention. Also, the appropriate processing executed by the CPU 20a in response to the acceptance of the operation of the "Print using network system" key 116 on the first message screen 100, particularly the appropriate processing including the network utilization processing of step S29 in the font substitution control task, is an example of the second processing according to the present invention. And the CPU 20a that executes these first and second processing is an example of the processing execution means according to the present invention.

In addition, the support request process in step S101 in the network usage process (see FIG. 8) is an example of a sending process according to the present invention. And the response reception process in step S103 in the network usage process is an example of a receiving process according to the present invention.

The CPU 20a, which executes steps S21 and S23 in the font substitution control task, cooperates with the image processing unit 14 and the display 28b to constitute an example of a preview image display means according to the present invention.

[Second embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

In this second embodiment, a first message screen 100a is displayed in the manner shown in FIG. 10. In the first message screen 100a shown in FIG. 10, a different operation key, an "Other Methods" key 120, is arranged in place of the "Cancel" key 118 of the first message screen 100 in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 2. Note that other than this, the configuration of the first message screen 100a shown in FIG. 10 is similar to the configuration of the first message screen 100 in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 2, so these similar parts are given the same reference numerals and detailed explanations thereof are omitted.

The "Other Methods" key 120 on the first message screen 100a shown in FIG. 10 is an operation key corresponding to a third option, which is different from the first option corresponding to the "Print with Substitute Font" key 114 and the second option corresponding to the "Print using a network system" key 116. That is, according to the first message screen 100a in the second embodiment, three options, the first option, the second option, and the third option, are presented to the user. For example, when the "Other Methods" key 120 corresponding to the third option is operated, the first message screen 100a disappears and the second message screen 400 shown in FIG. 11 is displayed on the display 28b. Note that the second message screen 400 is a modal dialog, for example, similar to the first message screen 100a.

In the second message screen 400, a warning mark 402 similar to that in the first message screen 100a is placed in the center of the top. Then, below the warning mark 402, an appropriate character string 404 is placed, which includes a content that informs the user that the original print result can be obtained by converting the user's (customer's) application data (file) into PDF format. Furthermore, below the character string 404, a character string 406 including an appropriate explanation about the "Display QR Code" key 410 described later is placed. This character string 406 includes a content that informs the user that when the "Display QR Code" key 410 is operated, a QR code (registered trademark) for accessing a website (not shown) containing instructions for converting the user's application data into PDF format is displayed. In addition, below the character string 406, a character string 408 including an appropriate explanation about the "Print Conversion Instructions" key 412 described later is placed. This character string 408 includes information that informs the user that by operating the "Print conversion instructions" key 412, an instruction manual detailing how to convert to PDF format will be printed for a fee.

In addition, three operation keys 410, 412, and 414 are arranged horizontally below the character string 408, in other words, at the bottom of the first message screen 100a. Of these three operation keys 410, 412, and 414, the leftmost operation key 410 is the "Display QR code" key corresponding to the character string 406. The central operation key 412 is the "Print conversion instructions" key corresponding to the character string 408. The rightmost operation key 414 is a "Cancel" key for postponing the execution of the printing process, terminating the operation on the second message screen 400, and instructing a transition to a state in which the aforementioned data acquisition screen is displayed on the display 28b.

Suppose, for example, that the "Display QR code" key 410 is operated on this second message screen 400. Then, instead of the second message screen 400, a QR code presentation screen 500 as shown in FIG. 12 is displayed on the display 28b. Note that the QR code presentation screen 500 is also, for example, a modal dialog.

In the QR code presentation screen 500 shown in FIG. 12, an attention mark 502 similar to that in the first message screen 100a (and the second message screen 400) is arranged in the center of the upper part. Then, below the attention mark 502, an appropriate character string 504 including a content that informs the user that the method of converting (application data) to PDF format is about to be explained is arranged. In addition, below the character string 504, an appropriate character string 406 including a content that urges the user to read the QR code 508 described below (using a mobile communication terminal with a camera owned by the user) and access the aforementioned website is arranged. Then, below the character string 506, a QR code 508 is arranged. This QR code 508 includes information (URL information) for accessing the aforementioned website. Furthermore, below the QR code 508, in other words, at the bottom of the QR code presentation screen 500, an "OK" key 510 is arranged. This "OK" key 510 is an operation key that indicates that the user has recognized the contents of the QR code presentation screen 500, and preferably that the QR code 508 has been read.

In response to the display of this QR code presentation screen 500, for example, the user reads the QR code 508 using the user's own mobile communication terminal. This allows the user to obtain information for accessing the aforementioned website, and ultimately allows the user to learn how to convert application data into PDF format. When the "OK" key 510 on the QR code presentation screen 500 is operated, the QR code presentation screen 500 disappears, and the aforementioned end message screen is displayed on the display 28b for a certain period of time, after which the aforementioned home screen is displayed on the display 28b.

The website referred to here is configured, for example, by the management server 70, but may be configured by a different server. As described above, the website also contains instructions for converting application data to PDF format, and in addition, appropriate notes are also provided, including information to inform the user that a print result identical to the original can be obtained by subjecting the converted PDF file to printing processing using the office direct print function of the multifunction device 10.

After this, the user can obtain a print result that is identical to the original intended by the application data, for example by performing the following tasks. That is, the user follows the instructions for converting to PDF format obtained from the aforementioned website and uses their own personal computer (for example, the computer that was used to create the application data) to convert the application data into an environment-independent file called PDF format. The user then submits the converted PDF file to a printing process using the Office Direct Print function. This results in a print result that is identical to the original, that is, a print result in which the original font is applied as is.

Returning to FIG. 11, for example, assume that the "Print conversion instructions" key 412 on the second message screen 400 is operated. Then, instead of the second message screen 400, a conversion instructions print confirmation screen 600 as shown in FIG. 13 is displayed on the display 28b. Note that the conversion instructions print confirmation screen 600 is also, for example, a modal dialog.

In the conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600 shown in FIG. 13, a warning mark 602 similar to that in the first message screen 100a is arranged in the center of the upper part. Then, below the warning mark 602, an appropriate character string 604 including a content that informs the user that an instruction manual that describes how to convert (application data) to PDF format is going to be printed for a fee is arranged. In addition, below the character string 604, an appropriate character string 606 including a content that asks the user whether or not it is OK to print the instruction manual is arranged. Furthermore, below the character string 606, in other words, at the bottom of the conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600, two operation keys 608 and 610 are arranged. Of these two operation keys 608 and 610, the left operation key 608 is a "Yes" key for instructing the execution of printing the instruction manual. And the right operation key 610 is a "No" key for instructing the execution of printing the instruction manual to be postponed.

In this conversion instruction printing confirmation screen 600, for example, the "Yes" key 608 is operated. Then, the instruction manual is printed, and more specifically, the image forming unit 16 executes the printing process of the instruction manual. At the same time, the conversion instruction printing confirmation screen 600 disappears, and the above-mentioned completion message screen is displayed on the display 28b for a certain period of time, after which the above-mentioned home screen is displayed on the display 28b. Note that the instruction manual describes how to convert application data into PDF format as described above, but in addition to this, it also includes appropriate annotations including content that informs the user that the converted PDF file can be printed exactly as in the original by subjecting it to printing processing using the office direct print function of the multifunction device 10.

After such an instruction manual is printed, the user can perform the following steps to obtain a print result that is identical to the original intended by the application data. That is, the user converts the application data into a PDF format file using their own personal computer (for example, the computer that was used to create the application data), following the instructions for converting to PDF format that are described in the instruction manual. The user then submits the converted PDF file to a printing process using the Office Direct Print function. This results in a print result that is identical to the original, in other words, a print result in which the original font is applied as is.

On the other hand, when the "No" key 610 on the conversion instructions printing confirmation screen 600 is operated, the conversion instructions printing confirmation screen 600 disappears without printing the instructions manual. Then, after the aforementioned completion message screen is displayed on the display 28b for a certain period of time, the aforementioned home screen is displayed on the display 28b.

Returning to FIG. 11 once again, assume that the "Cancel" key 414 on the second message screen 400 is operated. Then, the second message screen 400 disappears. Then, the aforementioned data acquisition screen is displayed on the display 28b. This allows the user to appropriately redo the previous operations, including selecting and importing other application data from an appropriate data source such as the external storage medium 50.

In this second embodiment, the CPU 20a also executes a font substitution control task, but in this second embodiment, steps S301 to S319 as shown in FIG. 14 are added to the font substitution control task. That is, in step S25 described above (FIG. 7), if the operation accepted in step S13 is not an operation on the "Print using network system" key 116 on the first message screen 100a, that is, an operation on the "Other methods" key 120 (S25: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S301 instead of step S31.

In step S301, the CPU 20a displays the second message screen 400 on the display 28b instead of the first message screen 100a. The CPU 20a then advances the process to step S303.

In step S303, the CPU 20a waits for the second message screen 400 to accept any operation (S303: NO). Then, when the second message screen 400 accepts any operation (S303: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S305.

In step S305, the CPU 20a determines whether the operation accepted in step S303 is an operation on the "Display QR code" key 410 on the second message screen 400. For example, if the operation accepted in step S303 is an operation on the "Display QR code" key 410 (S305: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S307. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S303 is not an operation on the "Display QR code" key 410 (S305: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S311, which will be described later.

In step S307, the CPU 20a displays the QR code presentation screen 500 on the display 28b instead of the second message screen 400. The CPU 20a then advances the process to step S309.

In step S309, the CPU 20a waits for the QR code presentation screen 500 to accept an operation, that is, for the "OK" key 510 to accept an operation (S309: NO). Then, when the "OK" key 510 on the QR code presentation screen 500 accepts an operation (S309: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S39 described above (FIG. 7) to end the office direct print function.

In response to this, when the CPU 20a advances the process from step S305 to step S311, it determines in step S311 whether the operation accepted in step S303 is an operation on the "Print conversion instructions" key 412 on the second message screen 400. For example, if the operation accepted in step S303 is an operation on the "Print conversion instructions" key 412 (S311: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S313. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S303 is not an operation on the "Print conversion instructions" key 412, that is, an operation on the "Cancel" key 414 (S311: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S31 described above (FIG. 7) to display the aforementioned data acquisition screen on the display 28b.

In step S313, the CPU 20a displays the conversion instructions print confirmation screen 600 on the display 28b instead of the second message screen 400. The CPU 20a then advances the process to step S315.

In step S315, the CPU 20a waits for the conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600 to accept any operation (S315: NO). Then, when the conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600 accepts any operation (S315: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S317.

In step S317, the CPU 20a determines whether the operation accepted in step S315 is an operation on the "Yes" key 608 on the conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600. For example, if the operation accepted in step S315 is an operation on the "Yes" key 608 (S317: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S319. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S315 is not an operation on the "Yes" key 608, that is, an operation on the "No" key 610 (S317: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S39 described above (FIG. 7) to end the office direct print function.

In step S319, the CPU 20a executes the printing process of the instruction manual by the image forming unit 16, and strictly speaking controls the image forming unit 16 to do so. After that, the CPU 20a advances the process to step S39 described above (FIG. 7) to end the office direct print function.

Thus, according to the second embodiment, in addition to the first and second options described above, a third option is presented to the user, which is to provide guidance on how to convert application data to PDF format. In other words, the number of options available to the user is increased, making it even more beneficial for the user.

In this second embodiment, the appropriate processing executed by the CPU 20a in response to the acceptance of an operation on the "Other methods" key 120 on the first message screen 100a is an example of a third processing according to the present invention. The method for converting application data into PDF format that is posted on the aforementioned website or described in the instruction manual is an example of a first method according to the present invention. Also, a personal computer (e.g. owned by a user) used when converting application data into PDF format is an example of a first device according to the present invention.

Furthermore, the option of operating the "Display QR code" key 410 on the second message screen 400 in this second embodiment is an example of a first guidance option according to the present invention. And the website in this second embodiment is an example of a first website according to the present invention. And the information for accessing the website, that is, the information (URL information) contained in the QR code on the QR code presentation screen 500 (see FIG. 12), is an example of the first access information according to the present invention. And in order to display the QR code presentation screen 500 on the display 28b, step S307 (see FIG. 14) in the font substitution control task is executed by the CPU 20a, and this step S307 is an example of a first guidance process according to the present invention.

In addition, the option of operating the "Print conversion instructions" key 412 on the second message screen 400 in this second embodiment is an example of a second guidance option according to the present invention. And the information contained in the instruction manual in this second embodiment, particularly the information regarding the procedure for converting application data to PDF format, is an example of the first instruction information according to the present invention. Also, in order to print the instruction manual, step S319 in the font substitution control task is executed by the CPU 20a, and this step S319 is an example of the second guidance process according to the present invention.

[Third Example]
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

The third embodiment is premised on the second embodiment, for example. In addition, in the third embodiment, measures are taken to take into consideration the possibility that the management server 70 may not be able to properly convert the application data into data in a specified format while the original fonts are still applied. For example, if the application data was created using excessively old application software and the fonts contained in the application data do not exist in the font database 70a of the management server 70, the management server 70 will not be able to properly convert the application data into data in a specified format. In such cases, the third embodiment is extremely useful.

In other words, if the font included in the application data does not exist in the font database 70a of the management server 70, the management server 70 cannot properly convert the application data into data in the specified format, as described above. In this case, the management server 70 responds to the request for assistance from the multifunction device 10 by informing the multifunction device 10 that it is not possible to fulfill the request for assistance. When such a response is received, a third message screen 700 such as that shown in FIG. 15 is displayed on the display 28b of the multifunction device 10.

In this third message screen 700, a warning mark 702 similar to that in the first message screen 100a etc. is placed in the center of the top. Then, below the warning mark 702, appropriate text 704 is placed containing content to inform the user that the user's (customer's) application data (file) will not produce print results identical to the original. Additionally, below the text 704, appropriate text 706 is placed containing content to inform the user that the user's application data needs to be converted to PDF format (to produce print results identical to the original).

Furthermore, below the character string 706, a character string 708 is arranged that includes an appropriate explanatory text about a "Display QR code" key 712, which will be described later. This character string 708 includes a content that informs the user that when the "Display QR code" key 712 is operated, a QR code for accessing a website (not shown) that contains instructions for converting the user's application data to PDF format will be displayed. In addition, below the character string 708, a character string 710 is arranged that includes an appropriate explanatory text about a "Print conversion instructions" key 714, which will be described later. This character string 710 includes a content that informs the user that when the "Print conversion instructions" key 714 is operated, an instruction manual containing instructions for converting to PDF format will be printed for a fee.

In addition, three operation keys 712, 714, and 716 are arranged horizontally below the character string 710, in other words, at the bottom of the third message screen 700. Of these three operation keys 712, 714, and 716, the leftmost operation key 712 is the "Display QR code" key corresponding to the character string 708. The central operation key 714 is the "Print conversion instructions" key corresponding to the character string 710. The rightmost operation key 716 is a "Cancel" key for postponing the execution of the printing process, terminating the operation on the third message screen 700, and instructing a transition to a state in which the aforementioned data acquisition screen is displayed on the display 28b.

When, for example, the "Display QR code" key 712 is operated on this third message screen 700, the QR code presentation screen 500 described above (FIG. 12) is displayed on the display 28b in place of the third message screen 700. This allows the user to obtain information for accessing the aforementioned website, and in turn, to learn how to convert application data into PDF format.

For example, when the "Print conversion instructions" key 714 on the third message screen 700 is operated, the above-mentioned (FIG. 13) conversion instructions print confirmation screen 600 is displayed on the display 28b in place of the third message screen 700. This allows the user to instruct printing of the above-mentioned instructions manual, and thus to recognize the instructions for converting application data to PDF format.

Furthermore, when the "Cancel" key 716 on the third message screen 700 is operated, the third message screen 700 disappears. Then, the aforementioned data acquisition screen is displayed on the display 28b. This allows the user to appropriately redo the previous operations, including selecting and importing other application data from an appropriate data source such as the external storage medium 50.

In this third embodiment, the CPU 20a also executes a font substitution control task, but in this third embodiment, steps S401 to S421 as shown in FIG. 16 are added to the font substitution control task. That is, after executing the network utilization process in step S29 described above (FIG. 7), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S401.

In this step S401, the CPU 20a determines whether the response received from the management server 70 by the network utilization process in step S29, i.e., the response from the management server 70 to the support request from the multifunction device 10, indicates that the support request cannot be met. For example, if the response from the management server 70 indicates that the support request from the multifunction device 10 can be met, i.e., if the response includes a PDF file as printable data (S401: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S21. On the other hand, if the response from the management server 70 indicates that the support request from the multifunction device 10 cannot be met, i.e., if the response does not include printable data (S401: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S403.

In step S403, the CPU 20a displays the third message screen 700 on the display 28b instead of the communication in progress message screen described above. The CPU 20a then advances the process to step S405.

In step S405, the CPU 20a waits for the third message screen 700 to accept any operation (S405: NO). Then, when the third message screen 700 accepts any operation (S405: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S407.

In step S407, the CPU 20a determines whether the operation accepted in step S405 is an operation on the "Display QR code" key 712 on the third message screen 700. For example, if the operation accepted in step S405 is an operation on the "Display QR code" key 712 (S407: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S409. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S405 is not an operation on the "Display QR code" key 712 (S407: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S413, which will be described later.

In step S409, the CPU 20a displays the QR code presentation screen 500 on the display 28b instead of the third message screen 700. The CPU 20a then advances the process to step S411.

In step S411, the CPU 20a waits for the QR code presentation screen 500 to accept an operation, that is, for the "OK" key 510 to accept an operation (S411: NO). Then, when the "OK" key 510 on the QR code presentation screen 500 accepts an operation (S411: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S39 (see FIG. 7) to end the office direct print function.

In response to this, when the CPU 20a advances the process from step S407 to step S413, it determines in step S413 whether the operation accepted in step S405 is an operation on the "Print conversion instructions" key 714 on the third message screen 700. For example, if the operation accepted in step S405 is an operation on the "Print conversion instructions" key 714 (S413: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S415. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S405 is not an operation on the "Print conversion instructions" key 714, that is, an operation on the "Cancel" key 716 (S413: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S31 (see FIG. 7) to display the aforementioned data acquisition screen on the display 28b.

In step S415, the CPU 20a displays the conversion instructions print confirmation screen 600 on the display 28b instead of the third message screen 700. The CPU 20a then advances the process to step S417.

In step S417, the CPU 20a waits for the conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600 to accept any operation (S417: NO). Then, when the conversion procedure print confirmation screen 600 accepts any operation (S417: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S419.

In step S419, the CPU 20a determines whether the operation accepted in step S417 is an operation on the "Yes" key 608 on the conversion procedure printing confirmation screen 600. For example, if the operation accepted in step S417 is an operation on the "Yes" key 608 (S419: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S421. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S417 is not an operation on the "Yes" key 608, that is, an operation on the "No" key 610 (S419: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S39 to end the office direct print function.

In step S421, the CPU 20a executes the printing process of the instruction manual by the image forming unit 16, and strictly speaking controls the image forming unit 16 to do so. After that, the CPU 20a advances the process to step S39 to end the office direct print function.

Thus, according to the third embodiment, if the font contained in the application data does not exist in the font database 70a of the management server 70, that is, if the management server 70 cannot properly convert the application data into data in a specified format, a third message screen 700 is displayed on the display 28b. This provides the user with guidance on how to convert the application data into PDF format. This is also extremely beneficial for the user.

In the third embodiment, the CPU 20a that executes steps S401 to S421 in the font substitution control task (FIG. 16), and in particular the CPU 20a that executes step S403 to cause the third message screen 700 to be displayed on the display 28b, constitutes an example of the guidance means of the present invention in cooperation with the display 28b. The method for converting application data into PDF format that is posted on the aforementioned website or described in the instruction manual is also an example of the second method of the present invention. Also, a personal computer (e.g. owned by the user) that is used when converting application data into PDF format is also an example of the second device of the present invention.

Furthermore, the option of operating the "Display QR code" key 712 on the third message screen 700 in this third embodiment is an example of a third guidance option according to the present invention. The website in this third embodiment is also an example of a second website in the present invention. Information for accessing the website, that is, information (URL information) included in the QR code on the QR code presentation screen 500 (see FIG. 12), is also an example of second access information according to the present invention. Step S409 (see FIG. 14) in the font substitution control task is executed by the CPU 20a to display the QR code presentation screen 500 on the display 28b, and step S409 is an example of a third guidance process according to the present invention.

In addition, the option of operating the "Print conversion instructions" key 714 on the third message screen 700 in this third embodiment is an example of a fourth guidance option according to the present invention. And the information contained in the instruction manual in this third embodiment, particularly the information regarding the procedure for converting application data to PDF format, is also an example of the second instruction information according to the present invention. Also, in order to print the instruction manual, step S421 in the font substitution control task is executed by the CPU 20a, and this step S421 is an example of the fourth guidance process according to the present invention.

[Fourth embodiment]
Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

The fourth embodiment is premised on the third embodiment, for example. In addition, in the fourth embodiment, measures are taken in consideration of the fact that when a font included in application data is substituted, depending on the position and size of the characters corresponding to the substituted font, the appearance of the print result including the characters may be excessively distorted.

Specifically, in this fourth embodiment, when a font included in application data is substituted, a determination is made as to whether or not the substitution of the font may cause objects (text, photographs, figures (graphs), etc.) included in the print result to go beyond the print range. This determination is made strictly based on the image data after rasterization when the above-mentioned preview image data is generated by the image processing unit 14. For example, if there is no possibility that an object included in the print result may go beyond the print range, the preview screen 200 described above (Figure 3) is displayed on the display 28b. On the other hand, if there is a possibility that an object included in the print result may go beyond the print range, a fourth message screen 800 as shown in Figure 17 is displayed on the display 28b.

In the fourth message screen 800, a warning mark 802 similar to that in the first message screen 100a is placed in the center of the top. Then, below the warning mark 802, an appropriate character string 804 is placed containing a message to inform the user that the user's (customer's) application data (file) may cause some characters to be missing, resulting in a distorted appearance of the print result, and that a specific process is required to avoid this. Then, below the character string 804, an appropriate character string 806 is placed which simply indicates that the print process is to be performed using the network system described above, which is one of the specific processes referred to here. In addition, below the character string 806, an appropriate character string 808 is placed which indicates a note when the print process is to be performed using the network system. This character string 808 contains a message to inform the user that, while the print result can be obtained exactly as in the original by using the network system, an additional fee is required.

Furthermore, below the character string 808, there is placed an appropriate character string 810 that succinctly expresses the conversion of application data (file) to PDF format, which is a predetermined process different from that expressed by the above-mentioned character string 806. In addition, below the character string 810, there is placed an appropriate character string 812 that expresses a comment about converting the application data to PDF format. This character string 812 includes content that informs the user that a print result identical to the original can be obtained by converting the application data to PDF format.

In addition, three operation keys 814, 816, and 818 are arranged horizontally below the character string 812, in other words, at the bottom of the fourth message screen 800. Of these three operation keys 814, 816, and 816, the leftmost operation key 814 is a "Print using network system" key for instructing to execute printing processing using a network system, in other words, corresponding to the character string 806. The central operation key 816 is a "Convert file to PDF format" key for instructing to convert application data into PDF format, in other words, corresponding to the character string 810. The rightmost operation key 818 is a "Cancel" key for instructing to postpone execution of printing processing, in other words, for terminating operation on the fourth message screen 800.

In this fourth message screen 800, for example, the "Print using a network system" key 814 is operated. Then, the same process as when the "Print using a network system" key 114 in the first message screen 100a described above is operated is performed. Then, for example, when the "Convert file to PDF format" key 816 in the fourth message screen 800 is operated, the same process as when the "Other methods" key 120 in the first message screen 100a is operated is performed. Furthermore, when the "Cancel" key 818 in the fourth message screen 800 is operated, the fourth message screen 800 disappears, the execution of the printing process is postponed, and the aforementioned data acquisition screen is then displayed on the display 28b.

In this fourth embodiment, the CPU 20a also executes a font substitution control task, but in this fourth embodiment, steps S501 to S509 as shown in FIG. 18 are added to the font substitution control task. That is, after generating the preview image data in step S21 described above (FIG. 7), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S501.

In step S501, the CPU 20a determines whether or not an object included in the print result is likely to extend beyond the print range, based on the rasterized image data used to generate the preview image. For example, if the object included in the print result is not likely to extend beyond the print range (S501: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S23 to display the preview screen 200 on the display 28b. On the other hand, if the object included in the print result is likely to extend beyond the print range (S501: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S503.

In step S503, the CPU 20a displays the fourth message screen 800 on the display 28b, or more precisely, after erasing the processing message screen, displays the fourth message screen 800 on the display 28b. The CPU 20a then advances the process to step S505.

In step S505, the CPU 20a waits for the fourth message screen 800 to accept any operation (S505: NO). Then, when the fourth message screen 800 accepts any operation (S505: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S507.

In step S507, the CPU 20a determines whether the operation accepted in step S505 is an operation on the "Print using a network system" key 814 on the fourth message screen 800. For example, if the operation accepted in step S505 is an operation on the "Print using a network system" key 814 (S507: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S27. As a result, the fourth message screen 800 disappears, the aforementioned communication message screen is displayed on the display 28b, and the network usage process of step S29 is executed. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S505 is not an operation on the "Print using a network system" key 814 (S507: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S509.

In step S509, the CPU 20a determines whether the operation accepted in step S505 is an operation on the "Convert file to PDF format" key 816 on the fourth message screen 800. For example, if the operation accepted in step S505 is an operation on the "Convert file to PDF format" key 816 (S509: YES), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S301 (see FIG. 14). As a result, the second message screen 400 (see FIG. 11) is displayed on the display 28b instead of the fourth message screen 800. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S505 is not an operation on the "Convert file to PDF format and print" key 816, that is, an operation on the "Cancel" key 818 (S509: NO), the CPU 20a advances the process to step S31 to display the above-mentioned data acquisition screen on the display 28b.

Thus, according to the fourth embodiment, if there is a possibility that an object included in the print result will go outside the print range due to the substitution of a font included in the application data, a fourth message screen 800 is displayed on the display 28b. That is, the user is presented with an option to prevent the object included in the print result from going outside the print range, in other words, an option to enable the execution of the print process with the original font applied as is. This is also extremely beneficial for the user.

In the fourth embodiment, the CPU 20a that executes step S501 in the font substitution control task is an example of the overflow determination means according to the present invention. Then, by displaying the fourth message screen 800, the user is presented with the option of operating the "Print using the network system" key 814, and the option of operating the "Print using the network system" key 814 is an example of the fourth option according to the present invention. In addition, by displaying the fourth message screen 800, the user is presented with the option of operating the "Convert file to PDF format" key 816, and the option of operating the "Convert file to PDF format" key 816 is an example of the fifth option according to the present invention. And, the CPU 20a that executes step S503 in the font substitution control task to display the fourth message screen 800 on the display 28b also constitutes an example of the presentation means according to the present invention in cooperation with the display 28b.

Furthermore, in this fourth embodiment, the procedure for converting application data into PDF format using a personal computer is posted on the aforementioned website or described in the procedure manual. The personal computer referred to here is an example of the third device according to the present invention, and the procedure for converting application data into PDF format using the personal computer is an example of the third procedure according to the present invention.

The appropriate process executed by the CPU 20a in response to the acceptance of the operation of the "Convert file to PDF format" key 816 on the fourth message screen 800 is an example of a fifth process according to the present invention. The CPU 20a, which executes the appropriate process as the fifth process or executes the appropriate process in response to the acceptance of the operation of the "Print using a network system" key 814 on the fourth message screen 800, is an example of a process execution means according to the present invention.

In addition, when the "Convert file to PDF" key 816 on the fourth message screen 800 is operated, the same process as when the "Other methods" key 120 on the first message screen 100a is operated is performed, that is, the second message screen 400 is displayed on the display 28b. The option of operating the "Display QR code" key 410 on the second message screen 400 is an example of the fifth guidance option according to the present invention. The aforementioned website in the fourth embodiment is also an example of the third website in the present invention. Information for accessing the website, that is, information (URL information) included in the QR code on the QR code presentation screen 500 (see FIG. 12), is also an example of the third access information according to the present invention. In the fourth embodiment, step S409 (see FIG. 14) in the font substitution control task is executed by the CPU 20a to display the QR code presentation screen 500 on the display 28b, and step S409 is an example of the fifth guidance process according to the present invention.

In addition, the option of operating the "Print conversion instructions" key 412 on the second message screen 400 in this fourth embodiment is an example of the sixth guidance option of the present invention. And the information described in the instruction manual in this fourth embodiment, particularly the information regarding the procedure for converting application data to PDF format, is also an example of the third instruction information of the present invention. Also in this fourth embodiment, step S421 in the font substitution control task is executed by the CPU 20a to print the instruction manual, and this step S421 is an example of the sixth guidance process of the present invention.

[Other application examples]
The above-mentioned embodiments are specific examples of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the technical scope of the present invention. The present invention can be applied to aspects other than these embodiments.

For example, in each embodiment, it may appear that the application data provided for printing processing by the office direct print function is one page's worth of data, but this is not the case. The present invention can be applied whether the application data is one page's worth of data or includes multiple pages' worth of data.

Furthermore, the first message screen 100 and other screens, including their respective designs, are not limited to the configurations described here. For example, the first message screen 100 shown in FIG. 2 may be provided with an appropriate character string including an explanation of the "Cancel" key 118.

In addition to or instead of the QR code presentation screen 500 shown in FIG. 12 being displayed on the display 28b, an appropriate screen explaining how to convert the application data into PDF format may be displayed on the display 28b. Additionally, the instructions for converting the application data into PDF format may be output in an auditory form, that is, as a voice. Furthermore, the screen explaining how to convert the application data into PDF format may be configured to be displayed on a portable information device owned by the user.

Similarly, instead of or in addition to the conversion instruction print confirmation screen 600 shown in FIG. 13 being displayed on the display 28b, an appropriate screen explaining the procedure for converting the application data to PDF format may be displayed on the display 28b. Additionally, the procedure for converting the application data to PDF format may be output by voice. Furthermore, the screen explaining the procedure for converting the application data to PDF format may be configured to be displayed on a portable information device owned by the user.

In addition, the instruction manual may be printed by, for example, the aforementioned slip printer (not shown) rather than by the image forming unit 16.

Furthermore, when a font contained in application data is substituted, the substitute font may be configured to be able to be arbitrarily selected from the substitute font table 358a described above (see FIG. 5).

The third embodiment is based on the second embodiment, but is not limited to this and may be based on the first embodiment. The fourth embodiment is based on the third embodiment, but is not limited to this and may be based on the first or second embodiment. In other words, the embodiments may be combined as appropriate.

Furthermore, in each embodiment, the multifunction device 10 installed in a public space such as a convenience store or supermarket has been given as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the present invention can also be applied to a multifunction device 10 installed in an office. Furthermore, the present invention can also be applied to image forming devices other than the multifunction device 10, such as printers, rather than to the multifunction device 10.

In addition, the present invention is not limited to being provided in the form of an image forming device, but can also be provided in the form of a program, that is, a control program for the image forming device, and in the form of a method, that is, a control method for the image forming device. Additionally, the present invention can also be provided in the form of a system, that is, an image forming system, that includes an image forming device and a support device.

The present invention can also be provided in the form of a computer-readable storage medium on which a control program for an image forming device is recorded. In this case, the control program recorded on the storage medium is read by the computer of the image forming device and executed by the computer, thereby realizing an image forming device similar to the present invention. The storage medium referred to here is a portable medium such as the external storage medium 50 mentioned above. Also, instead of a portable medium, built-in (internal) media that is built into the image forming device, such as a ROM or a hard disk drive, can also be applied as the storage medium referred to here.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 10 multifunction device 14 image processing section 16 image forming section 20 control section 20a CPU
20b: Main memory section 28: Operation display section 28a: Touch panel 28b: Display 100, 100a: First message screen 200: Preview screen 400: Second message screen 500: QR code presentation screen 600: Conversion procedure print confirmation screen 700: Third message screen 800: Fourth message screen

Claims (11)

1. An image forming apparatus capable of receiving input of application data created by a predetermined application software or a compatible application software compatible with the application software, and executing a print process based on the application data,
A storage means for storing font data for a plurality of types of fonts;
a font determination means for determining whether the application data includes a non-installed font different from the plurality of types of fonts;
A presentation means for presenting a plurality of options to a user;
an operation receiving means for receiving an operation by the user; and
a process execution unit that executes a process according to the operation received by the operation reception unit,
the presentation means presents, when the font determination means determines that the application data includes the non-installed font, a first option of executing the printing process after replacing the non-installed font with a substitute font corresponding to the non-installed font among the plurality of types of fonts, and a second option of executing the printing process with the non-installed font applied;
the process execution means, when the operation for selecting the first option is accepted by the operation acceptance means, executes a first process corresponding to the first option, and, when the operation for selecting the second option is accepted by the operation acceptance means, executes a second process corresponding to the second option;
The second process includes a transmission process of transmitting the application data to an external support device capable of converting the application data into data in a predetermined format that enables the printing process with the non- installed font applied , and further includes
the presenting means presents, in addition to the first option and the second option, a third option of guiding the user to a first procedure for converting the application data into the predetermined format data by a first device that is an external device other than the support device;
The process execution unit executes a third process corresponding to the third option when the operation for selecting the third option is accepted by the operation acceptance unit . The image forming device according to claim 1, wherein the second process further includes a receiving process for receiving the data in the specified format from the support device. The image forming device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a preview image display means for displaying a preview image representing an image expected to be formed by the printing process. 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processing execution means causes the presentation means to present, as the third processing, a first guidance option of outputting first access information for accessing a first website where the first method is disclosed, and a second guidance option of outputting first method information representing the first method, and when the operation for selecting the first guidance option is accepted by the operation accepting means, executes a first guidance processing corresponding to the first guidance option, and when the operation for selecting the second guidance option is accepted by the operation accepting means, executes a second guidance processing corresponding to the second guidance option. An image forming apparatus as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a guidance means for guiding the user to a second method for converting the application data into the specified format data by a second device, which is an external device other than the support device, when it is impossible to convert the application data into the specified format data by the support device. 6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the guiding means causes the presenting means to present a third guidance option of outputting second access information for accessing a second website where the second method is disclosed, and a fourth guidance option of outputting second method information representing the second method, and when the operation for selecting the third guidance option is accepted by the operation accepting means, causes the processing execution means to execute a third guidance process corresponding to the third guidance option, and when the operation for selecting the fourth guidance option is accepted by the operation accepting means, causes the processing execution means to execute a fourth guidance process corresponding to the fourth guidance option, thereby guiding the user to the second method. a protrusion determination unit that determines whether or not an object included in the application data is likely to protrude beyond a print range of the print process when the operation for selecting the first option is received by the operation receiving unit and before the first process is executed by the process executing unit,
the presenting means presents to the user, when the protrusion determination means determines that there is a possibility that the object protrudes from the print range, a fourth option of executing the print process with the uninstalled font applied, and a fifth option of guiding the user to a third method for converting the application data into the predetermined format data by a third device that is an external device other than the support device;
the process execution means, when the operation for selecting the fourth option is accepted by the operation acceptance means, executes the second process, and, when the operation for selecting the fifth option is accepted by the operation acceptance means, executes a fifth process corresponding to the fifth option; and
An image forming apparatus as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the processing execution means executes the first processing when the operation to select the first option is accepted by the operation accepting means and the overhang determination means determines that the object is not likely to overflow the printing range, and postpones execution of the first processing when the overhang determination means determines that the object is likely to overflow the printing range. 8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the process executing means causes the presenting means to present, as the fifth process, a fifth guidance option of outputting third access information for accessing a third website in which the third method is disclosed, and a sixth guidance option of outputting third method information representing the third method, and when the operation for selecting the fifth guidance option is accepted by the operation accepting means, executes a fifth guidance process corresponding to the fifth guidance option, and when the operation for selecting the sixth guidance option is accepted by the operation accepting means, executes a sixth guidance process corresponding to the sixth guidance option. An image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8 , and
An image forming system comprising the support device. A control program for an image forming apparatus capable of receiving input of application data created by a predetermined application software or a compatible application software compatible with the application software and executing a print process based on the application data, the control program including a storage unit storing font data for a plurality of types of fonts, the control program comprising:
a font determination step of determining whether the application data includes a non-installed font different from the plurality of types of fonts;
a presentation step of presenting multiple options to a user;
an operation receiving step for receiving an operation by the user; and
a process execution step for executing a process corresponding to the operation accepted by the operation acceptance step, in a computer of the image forming apparatus;
the presentation step presents, when it is determined in the font determination step that the application data includes the non-installed font, a first option of executing the printing process after replacing the non-installed font with a substitute font corresponding to the non-installed font among the plurality of types of fonts, and a second option of executing the printing process with the non-installed font applied;
In the process execution step, when the operation for selecting the first option is accepted by the operation acceptance step, a first process corresponding to the first option is executed, and when the operation for selecting the second option is accepted by the operation acceptance step, a second process corresponding to the second option is executed;
The second process includes a transmission process of transmitting the application data to an external support device capable of converting the application data into data in a predetermined format that enables the printing process with the non- installed font applied , and further includes
In the presenting step, in addition to the first option and the second option, a third option is presented to the user, which is a first option for guiding the user to a first procedure for converting the application data into the predetermined format data by a first device that is an external device other than the support device;
The process execution step is a control program for executing a third process corresponding to the third option when the operation for selecting the third option is accepted by the operation acceptance step . 1. A method for controlling an image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus being capable of receiving input of application data created by a predetermined application software or a compatible application software compatible with the application software and executing a print process based on the application data, the image forming apparatus being provided with a storage means storing font data for a plurality of types of fonts, the method comprising the steps of:
a font determination step of determining whether the application data includes a non-installed font different from the plurality of types of fonts;
a presentation step of presenting a plurality of options to a user;
an operation receiving step of receiving an operation by the user; and
a process execution step of executing a process according to the operation accepted by the operation acceptance step,
In the presenting step, when it is determined in the font determining step that the application data includes the non-installed font, a first option is presented to execute the printing process after replacing the non-installed font with a substitute font corresponding to the non-installed font among the plurality of types of fonts, and a second option is presented to execute the printing process with the non-installed font applied,
In the process execution step, when the operation for selecting the first option is accepted in the operation acceptance step, a first process corresponding to the first option is executed, and when the operation for selecting the second option is accepted in the operation acceptance step, a second process corresponding to the second option is executed;
The second process includes a transmission process of transmitting the application data to an external support device capable of converting the application data into data in a predetermined format that enables the printing process with the non- installed font applied , and further includes
In the presenting step, in addition to the first option and the second option, a third option is presented to the user, which is a first option for guiding the user to a first procedure for converting the application data into the predetermined format data by a first device that is an external device other than the support device;
In the process execution step, when the operation for selecting the third option is accepted in the operation acceptance step, a third process corresponding to the third option is executed .

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