JP2003051908A - Communications equipment, control method for the communications equipment, and control program for the communications equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a simple user interface for communications equipment by which a user can acquire operations of the communications equipment through actual operations and easily familiarize the operations. SOLUTION: The communications equipment is provided with a help switch 104, which can select normal operation mode, where a communication relating operation (transmission/reception/copy) is actually executed, in response to an operation entry in each operation stage of the communication relating operation, or a help mode where only displays are updated in the entirely same way as those of the normal operation mode but the communication relating operation is not actually executed, in response to the operation entry in each operation stage.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention displays a plurality of display screens related to a predetermined communication-related operation on a display means for each operation stage, and the communication-related operation is performed according to an operation input from the operation means at each operation step. The present invention relates to a communication device, a communication device control method, and a communication device control program for determining the above-mentioned aspect.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a user operates an operating means such as a button or a dial for contents (for example, a menu) displayed on a display device such as a CRT or a liquid crystal display,
There is known a sequential input type processing system which advances the next operation while confirming the result on the screen.

The user interface of such a sequential input type processing system is widely used for communication equipment such as a facsimile machine.

In such a sequential input type processing system, there are many conventional ones having a help function for displaying advice for input.

As an example of the structure for operating the help function in such a sequential input type processing system, a "help" button is provided as an operating means, and by operating the "help" button, the work process at that time is performed. There are some that display advice for input based on.

For example, in an interactive input system in software of a computer, an explanation screen for explaining the role of each button displayed on the screen is displayed by pointing a specific position on the screen with a pointing device. There is a so-called context help user interface method.

For example, in a dialog window in which buttons, pull-down (pull-up) menus, etc. are arranged, by moving the mouse pointer to a specific button or menu (or operating a specific button of the keyboard or mouse), It is known to display a window displaying help information by overlapping the dialog window.

Further, in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 05-250119,
A method has been proposed in which a video provides advice that the user does not need to read.

[0009]

However, in the above-mentioned conventional help system, in particular, the context help function of the interactive input system of the computer, when a specific position on the screen is pointed by the pointing device,
Although the general functions are explained (most of the help information is textual information), it is not possible to know what the actual operation is and how it corresponds to the operation when proceeding. However, it is hard to say that it is a kind help function for users who are not familiar with it.

Of course, it is possible to try the actual operation and learn the intended operation procedure without depending on the help information, but for a user who is not familiar with this,
The accuracy is low, and there is a high possibility that a malfunction that cannot be recovered or corrected (such as image transmission to a wrong partner in the case of a facsimile machine) is often executed.

[0011] In the "moving image help guidance method" described in the above-mentioned Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 05-250119, a method of providing advice by moving images is described.
The content of work such as figure editing is automatically changed at predetermined time intervals, and as a result, it is shown to the user as a moving image. However, in this method, the screens are automatically changed one after another, so that the user's understanding may not catch up. Further, in the invention of the publication, the time interval for changing the image is also configured to be arbitrarily set, but the time required for the user to understand may be different for each item, in which case Since the time interval is frequently set again, there is a problem in terms of usability. In any case, the method disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 05-250119 has a problem that the user cannot understand the help information at his own pace.

An object of the present invention is to provide a user interface of a communication device which allows a user to learn the operation of the communication device through an actual operation and which is simple and easy to learn.

[0013]

In order to solve the above problems, according to the present invention, a plurality of display screens relating to a predetermined communication-related operation is displayed on the display means for each operation stage, and the operation at each operation stage is performed. In a communication device, a communication device control method, and a communication device control program for determining a mode of the communication-related operation in accordance with an operation input from the operation unit, an actual operation is performed according to an operation input from the operation unit in each operation step. A normal operation mode for executing communication-related operations, and a help for updating the display in exactly the same manner as in the normal operation mode without executing actual communication-related operations in response to an operation input from the operating means in each operation step. We adopted a configuration to select one of the modes.

[0014]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The configuration and operation of a facsimile device will be described below as an example of the communication device.

FIG. 1 shows the external appearance of a facsimile apparatus adopting the present invention. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 101 is a simple key for switching a menu display relating to a predetermined communication-related operation (operation related to transmission / reception / copy) described later between a simple mode and a multi-function mode.

When the simple key 101 is pressed, the simple key 101 is in a depressed state and is in an on state.
That is, the simple key 101 is composed of a so-called alternate operation type push switch or the like, but may be a switch of another type such as a momentary operation type as long as the pressed state can be displayed by an LED or the like. In any case, it is desirable that the simple key 101 is constructed so that the on / off state can be visually recognized. The operation of the simple key 101 in the on state and the operation in the off state will be described later.

Reference numeral 102 is a display unit using a display element such as a liquid crystal display with a backlight, and the display unit 102 has a liquid crystal display portion for displaying information to the user in each mode. The display on the liquid crystal display will be described in detail below. The display unit 102 is rotatably supported with respect to the main body so that it can be set at an angle that is easy for the user to see. Reference numeral 103 is a cassette for feeding the recording paper into the main body.

Reference numeral 104 is a help switch (the display of the key top may be an easily recognizable name such as "key guide" as shown in the figure), and constitutes an operating means for switching between the normal operation mode and the help mode. . The hardware of the help switch 104 is composed of a switch similar to the simple key 101.

When the help switch 104 is on, the mode of the apparatus is "help mode", and when it is on, the mode of the apparatus is "normal operation mode".

Here, the normal operation mode is a state in which an input is made in accordance with the operation of the operation unit 2 and the device performs an actual operation in accordance with the input, that is, a normal operation state.

On the other hand, the help mode is a feature of this embodiment, and the same operation as the normal operation mode is possible, and although the display transition of the display unit 102 and the utterance from the speaker are performed according to the operation, In this mode, actual operations such as transmission / reception / copy are not performed.

Reference numeral 105 is a knob for calling the data registered in the telephone directory, and the registered data can be sequentially displayed by rotating the knob as shown by the arrow in FIG.

Reference numeral 106 is a multi-function key, the function of which is displayed below the liquid crystal display 121. The function of the multifunction key 106 changes depending on each operation mode.

Reference numeral 107 is a document feed port, 108 is a ten-key pad, an operation section on which other function keys are arranged, 109 is a PC card insertion port, and 110 is a handset. In this embodiment, the PC card is used to input a digital image taken by a digital camera or the like.

FIG. 2 is a front view of the facsimile apparatus according to the present embodiment, showing the configuration of the display unit 102 and the operation section. In FIG. 2, 144 is a recording key used when recording a message or a call content, and 142 is a reproduction key used when reproducing recorded voice data.

Reference numeral 131 is a telephone book key for calling the telephone book, and 132 is a set key for confirming contents such as registration. 133 is a cross key for moving the cursor in the LCD up, down, left and right, which is used for display control operation, particularly for selecting an item in a menu.

Reference numeral 122 is a facsimile transmission key for entering a facsimile transmission operation, 123 is a facsimile reception key for entering a facsimile reception operation, 124 is a copy key for entering a copy operation, and 125 is an entry for sending and receiving e-mail. It is an email key.

Reference numeral 135 is a start key for executing all operations such as transmission, reception and copying, and 134 is a stop key for interrupting the operation of the apparatus being executed. Reference numeral 136 is a ten-key unit, and reference numeral 138 is a speakerphone key for activating a microphone (not shown) while the line is connected to output a voice on the line and outputting a sound on the line to a speaker (not shown). Is. Reference numeral 139 is a voice dial key for executing destination automatic dialing by voice recognition.

Reference numeral 143 is an answering key for setting an answering machine mode for automatically recording the contents of the other party's incoming call. 141 is a cordless handset for calling the cordless cordless handset telephone from the main body and executing an extension call. Keys 137 are redial keys for automatically dialing the telephone number of the other party called last time.

Reference numeral 121 denotes a liquid crystal display screen (hereinafter, simply referred to as a liquid crystal screen), which is used to output the status of the device and various messages.

The arrangement in the liquid crystal screen 121 will be described. Reference numeral 151 is an area for displaying a status, which is the remaining amount of color ink for printing on recording paper, the remaining amount of black ink, the remaining amount of memory according to the data recorded in the answering machine, the volume of ringing volume, and the ringing The emphasized pitch of the volume, the number of received faxes, the number of voice mails, the number of emails, etc. are displayed as icons from the bottom left (see FIG. 3 described later).

Reference numeral 152 denotes an area for guiding an operation to the user or calling attention, and displaying important information at that time, and the date and time are displayed on this screen. 153 is a multi-function key 10 arranged below it.
In the area for explaining the key function of No. 6, in the case of the figure, 153a
Is a function key for various registrations and settings, 153b is an incoming call history key for confirming the reception record of an answering machine / facsimile, 153c is a sleep key for muting the ringing volume,
Reference numeral 153d serves as an operation guide key for displaying a simple operation method.

Below, the screen state of FIG. 2 is assumed to be a standby screen.

FIG. 16 shows the structure of the control system of the facsimile apparatus of this embodiment. In FIG. 16, reference numeral 100
A CPU 1 controls the operation of the entire apparatus.
A liquid crystal screen interface 1002 for controlling the display of the liquid crystal screen 121, a key input interface 1003, a ROM 1008, and a RAM 1009 are connected to 001. A line interface 1005, a scanner interface 1006, a PC card interface 1007, a printer interface 1010, etc. are connected via an I / O port 1004 (or similar input / output circuit) for data input / output.
Since the configurations of these data input / output hardware are known, detailed description will be omitted.

The CPU 1001 performs the operations described later, particularly the operation input on the user interface and the liquid crystal display RO.
It shall be controlled based on the program stored in M1008.

Next, the operation of the above-mentioned configuration will be described, particularly focusing on the control of the user interface. In the following description, in order to avoid complication, the CPU 1001 is not referred to as the main body of control, but it is assumed that the CPU 1001 controls display and key input in the user interface described below. That is, the CPU 1001 is the main body of the control means for performing the control of the present invention, and the CP stored in the ROM 1008.
The program of U1001 constitutes the control program of the present invention.

In the facsimile apparatus of this embodiment, the help switch 104 can be used to shift to the help mode from any timing in the normal operation mode. As described above, in the help mode, the same operation as the normal operation mode can be performed, and the display unit 102 can be operated according to the operation.
The display transition and the utterance from the speaker are performed, but the actual operation such as transmission / reception / copy is not performed.

That is, a normal operation mode in which a communication-related operation is actually executed according to an operation input in each operation stage of a certain communication-related operation (transmission / reception / copy), and an operation input from the operation means in each operation stage. Accordingly, a help mode is provided in which the actual communication-related operation is not executed and only the display is updated just like the normal operation mode, and any one of these modes can be selected by the help switch 104.

[Facsimile Transmission] First, the operation for performing an operation related to facsimile transmission (transmission related operation) will be described.

(Multi-Function Facsimile Transmission / Normal Operation Mode) First, the operation procedure in the multi-function mode in which the simple key 101 is off and the help switch 104 is off and the facsimile transmission is performed in the normal operation mode will be described. Describe. When the help switch 104 is off, normal operation is performed according to the operation.

In the facsimile transmission, when the help switch 104 is off, the display unit 1 is displayed as shown in FIG.
On 02, a standby screen 200 is displayed. In this state, when the facsimile transmission key 122 is pressed, the standby screen is switched to the screen 201.

Here, the arrangement within the screen 201 will be described. Reference numeral 161 is an area for displaying the status, and from the left, the remaining amount of color ink for printing on the recording paper (161
a), remaining amount of black ink (161b), remaining amount of memory (161c) based on data recorded on the answering machine, loudness of ringing volume (161d), emphasized tone of ringing volume (161e) are displayed by icons To do. In the display screen shown below, those icons required for the screen are selectively displayed, but in order to avoid complication, they will not be described one by one below. Reference numeral 162 is an area for displaying the title of the screen.

Reference numeral 163 is an area (menu display area) for displaying selection items and values by menu display. The menu items in the area 163 are basically selected by operating the cross key 133.

Reference numeral 164 is an area for displaying an explanation of the method of selecting the above items and the next operation method. Reference numeral 165 is a display area for explaining the key function of the multi-function key 106 arranged at the bottom of the liquid crystal screen (see FIG. 2). In the case of the screen 201, 106a is a "return" key for returning to the previous screen, and 106d is a "decision key" for proceeding to the next screen after setting or confirming the current screen (see FIG. 2). . No function is assigned to the keys 106b and 106c.

The "return" key 106a and the "enter" key 106d are always displayed at this position on any screen until the start key 135 is pressed for the operation to proceed. This screen layout is the same when the facsimile reception key 123 and the copy key 124 are pressed.

The relationship between the display in the display area 165 and the actually operated multifunction key 106 will not be described in detail below in order to avoid complication, but in the following, for example, a "return" key. It is needless to say that in the case where is described as pressing, the corresponding multifunction key 106 is actually operated.

On the screen 201, it is possible to select from the items in the area 163 which data is to be the transmission data. In the case of the present embodiment, here, a general paper original,
It is data read by a hand scanner and digital photograph data (data in a PC card in which data taken by a digital camera or the like is recorded).

In the present embodiment, the above-mentioned types are assumed as the source of the data to be transmitted, but it is also conceivable to set a menu item so that another source can be selected. For example, in addition to the above items, it is conceivable to add an optional data input method for facsimile transmission to the menu item, such as adding an item for directly receiving and transmitting data from a digital camera. . In any case, it goes without saying that if items are added to the screen, unlimited items can be added without increasing the number of switches and the like.

In addition, when there is no image of the scanner or when there is no digital photograph data, in the present invention, after selecting an item on the screen 201, a warning message saying "no data" (not shown) is displayed. However, it is also possible to display items that have no data in advance so that they cannot be selected by a method such as not displaying them in advance or lightening the color.

On the screen 201, an item in the area 163 is selected by operating the cross key 133 up and down, and the screen 20
It is possible to go to any of the screens 2, 206, and 207.

That is, when "Send paper document on screen" is selected on the screen 201, a screen 202 is displayed. Screen 202
Then, when the respective values are selected from the items of color, image quality, and density and the “OK” key is pressed, the screen 203 is displayed. Since any value of the item on the screen 202 is selected in the initial state, the setting can be confirmed here.

On the screen 203, the number of the transmission destination is input. After entering the number, press the start button 135 to complete the fax transmission operation, and the screen will be the transmitting screen (screen 2
04) and the end screen (screen 205) are displayed in this order.

On the other hand, the items on the screen 201 (area 163)
From the screen, select "Send image from scanner" and make a decision. The screen 206 appears. On this screen, the read scanner data list is displayed. The list shows when (date) the data was read, whether the content was in color or black and white, and the read size.

Transmission data is selected from the scanner data read here. When the "Enter" key is pressed here, the screen 203 is displayed, so the number of the transmission destination is input. After inputting the number, pressing the start button 135 completes the facsimile transmission operation, and the screen is the transmitting screen (screen 2
04) and the end screen (screen 205) are displayed in this order.

On the other hand, when “Send digital photograph” is selected and selected from the items in the area 163 of the screen 201, the screen 207 is displayed. If you select how to send the digital photo data read here and press the "Enter" key, the screen 208 appears, and you can check the display of the image that has been read (the image can be reduced or necessary if necessary). If so, display with reduced color). When the user confirms the image to be transmitted and presses the “OK” key, the screen 203 is displayed, and the number of the transmission destination is input.

After inputting the number, the operation of facsimile transmission is terminated by pressing the start button 135, and the status of the device is displayed in the order of the transmitting screen (screen 204) and the ending screen (screen 205).

If the original is set before the facsimile transmission key 122 is pressed, a message "the original has been set" is displayed (screen 40 in FIG. 6 described later).
4).

After this, when the first digit of the other party's number is entered using the ten-key pad 136, the input number is displayed instead of the screen 203. After inputting the number, pressing the start button 135 terminates the facsimile transmission operation, and the screen displays the status of the device in the order of the transmitting screen (screen 204) and the ending screen (screen 205).

As described above, when performing facsimile transmission in the multi-function mode and the normal operation mode,
You can select the transmission source from multiple types of data sources.

(Multifunctional Facsimile Transmission / Help Mode) Next, the operation when the help switch 104 is turned on and the help mode is selected in the multifunctional mode in which the simple key 101 is off will be described. As described above, in the help mode, the same operation as in the normal operation mode is possible, and the display transition of the display unit 102 and the utterance from the speaker are performed according to the operation, but the actual transmission / reception /
This is a mode in which an operation such as copying is not performed, and the help switch 104 can shift to the help mode from an arbitrary timing in the normal operation mode.

FIG. 4 shows the control of the liquid crystal screen 121 when the help mode is selected for the facsimile transmission.

First, when the facsimile transmission button 122 is pressed on the standby screen 200 while pressing the help switch 104 (or after pressing the help switch 104), the display 301 in FIG. 4 is displayed. As a supplementary explanation of the operation method, as described in the description of FIG. 3, when the facsimile transmission button 122 is directly pressed from the standby screen 200, the normal mode in which actual facsimile transmission of FIG. 3 is started, When the facsimile transmission button 122 is pressed while pressing the help switch 104 from the standby screen 200, the help mode of FIG. 4 is controlled to start.

Screens 302, 306, 3 after the screen 301
07 and 308 are screens 202, 206, 207 of FIG.
208, and the display contents are substantially the same. The same applies to the correspondence between the operation and the transition of the display state. In addition, in each screen in the help mode, "Help" is displayed in the display area 164 so that it can be seen that the user is currently in the help mode (the same applies to the display area 164 of each screen below).

It should be noted that other methods may be used as the display for informing that the help mode screen is displayed. For example, a mark different from that of the present embodiment may be attached, the screen frame may be different between the operation mode and the help mode, color display may be performed in the normal operation mode, and monochrome display may be performed in the operation mode. Conceivable.

The operation and display control in the help mode will be described. For example, the screen 303 is a screen for setting the telephone number of the transmission partner, and the setting is performed by operating the ten keys 136. And further start key 1
By pressing 35, the next screen 304 is displayed,
The display automatically switches to the screen 305 after a few seconds. However, the actual transmission operation is not performed in this help mode.

When returning to the normal mode, the help function is turned off by depressing the help switch 104 which has been pressed and turned on. In response to this operation, the display on the liquid crystal screen 121 returns to the screen in the normal mode when the help mode was turned on.

That is, in the example of FIG. 4, the help mode ON operation is performed at the time of the standby screen 200, and when the help switch 104 is turned off, the corresponding standby screen 200 is restored. As a result, the subsequent operation and the operation practiced in the help mode coincide with each other in the operation start stage, and the operation becomes easy for the user.

The transition to the help mode is controlled so that it can be performed at any stage. For example, it is desirable to be able to perform it at the timing of displaying not only the standby screen 200 as in the above example but also any other menu.

FIG. 5 shows an example of screen display control when the help switch 104 is operated at a timing different from that of FIG. The operation of FIG. 5 is similar to the example shown in FIG. 3 up to the middle, and the user presses the facsimile transmission button 122 from the standby screen 200 to display the facsimile transmission screen 201, and the cross key 133 is operated to operate the facsimile transmission screen. By selecting one of the items in 201 (highlighted in black and white) and pressing the set button 132 or the operation unit 106a corresponding to “OK”, the next screen 202, 2
06 or 207 is displayed.

Here, a case where “transmit digital photograph” is set on the screen 201 and the screen 207 is displayed will be described as an example. When the screen 207 is displayed and the user wants to confirm the subsequent setting operation for “transmitting a digital photo” in advance, the help switch 104 is pressed at this point. This enters the help mode, and the display screen becomes the screen 307.

From here, as described above, the screen transition is similar to the screen in the normal mode, but of course the actual transmission operation is not executed as described above. In the example of FIG. 5, when “Send selected image” is selected on the screen 307 and the “Enter” key is operated, the screen transitions to the screen 308, and on the screen 308, the image selection setting is performed by operating the up / down keys 133. Then, by pressing the set button 132 or the “OK” operation unit 106a, the next screen 303 is displayed.

The screen 303 is a screen similar to the screen 303 of FIG. 4, and is a screen for setting the telephone number of the transmission partner, which is set by operating the ten keys 136. Then, by further pressing the start key 135, the next screen 304 is displayed. However, the actual transmission operation is not performed in this help mode.

To return to the normal mode, the help key 104 which is pushed and turned on is turned off. As a result, the display of the liquid crystal screen 121 returns to the screen of the normal mode at the time when the help mode is turned on according to the operation.

That is, in the example of FIG. 5, since the help mode on operation is performed at the time of the screen 207, if the help mode is turned off on the screen 304, or the operation proceeds to the screen 305, a series of operations is performed. When all (transmission in this case) is completed, the screen returns to the screen 207 where the help mode ON operation is performed. As a result, the operation starting stage of the subsequent operation and the operation performed as confirmation in the help mode coincide with each other, and the operation becomes easy for the user.

In other words, the help mode is entered while the selection on the screen 301 has already been made (in this case, "send digital photograph" has been selected), and since the help mode has been entered, the help mode is restored. At this time, the setting items (“send digital photo”) already made at that time are used, and the actual setting is made according to the newly input operation from the setting items subsequent to the screen 307. Determine the value.

Of course, the operation timing for returning to the normal mode may be any timing. For example, in the example of FIG. 5, when trying to return to the normal mode at the time when the screen 308 is displayed, similarly, the help key 104 which is pressed at that time and is in the ON state is pressed again. Then, it becomes a floating state and the help function is turned off. The display of the display unit 102a is changed according to the operation.
Help mode ・ Returns to the normal mode screen when turned on. In the example of FIG. 5, since the help mode ON operation is being performed at the time of the screen 207, the screen returns to the screen 207.

In this way, control is performed to enter the help mode at any operation stage, all the settings before entering the help mode are valid, and when returning from the help mode to the normal operation mode, the screen when the help mode is entered is displayed. The user can try or practice any setting operation in the help mode by controlling the setting so that the user can perform the setting operation of the actual normal operation mode from there. When returning to the mode, you can return to the screen when you entered the help mode,
The operation in the normal operation mode can be performed easily and without failure based on the operation in the help mode.

(Simple Facsimile Transmission / Normal Operation Mode) Next, when the simple key 101 is set to ON, that is, in the simple mode and the normal operation mode is set, the transmission operation ( Simple facsimile transmission) will be described.

This simple facsimile transmission improves usability for the user who only needs basic functions. In other words, for a user who wants to perform the most basic facsimile transmission, such as "I want to send a paper document anyway regardless of the image quality, etc.", a multi-function that specifies the source of image data as described above. Since many functions are included in the menu, some selection screens are required to execute the basic functions, which makes the operation more troublesome and difficult to learn than the single-function facsimile.

Therefore, in the facsimile apparatus of the present embodiment, a simple transmission mode for transmitting only the paper original data source is provided, and when the simple mode is selected by turning on the simple key 101, a simple screen progresses. I'm done. The operation flow of facsimile transmission in simple facsimile transmission will be described below.

FIG. 6 shows the transition of the display state in the liquid crystal screen 121 according to the user's operation when performing the facsimile transmission in the simple facsimile transmission.

When the simple key is pressed, the screen 400 is displayed as a standby screen, and when the send key 122 is pressed in this state, the standby screen 400 changes to the screen 40.
Change to 1.

Here, the number of the transmission destination is input. On this screen, the display area 106 has a "color" key (106
The contents of the data to be transmitted can be changed with a) and the "black and white" key (106d). After entering the number, start button 13
Pressing 5 completes the fax transmission operation, and the screen displays the device status in the order of the transmitting screen (screen 402) and the ending screen (screen 403). If a document is set before pressing the facsimile transmission key, screen 404 is displayed.

As described above, in the present embodiment, in the simple transmission mode in which the simple key 101 is ON, in the simple transmission mode in which the simple key 101 is “ON”, the paper original is set and the telephone number is input. Start button 135
The original image can be transmitted only by pressing, and the image quality, density, and other setting screens such as the screen 202 in FIG. 3 are skipped. That is, in the simple transmission mode, the transmission function is limited to only the paper original transmission, so that it is possible to provide a user interface that is easy for a user who does not use a complicated function to understand and easy to learn and operate.

In the above, three types of sources that can be transmitted are provided, and when the simple key 101 is set to “ON”, only one of the three types of data sources is transmitted. Although an example of data is shown, the types of data sources are not limited to three types,
Further, the type of data source that can be transmitted in the simple key “on” state is not limited to one type.

In this simple transmission mode as well, the help mode can be activated. The state of the screen display at that time is shown in FIG. Easy key 101 is pressed,
When the facsimile transmission button 122 is pressed while pressing the help switch 104 (or after pressing the help switch 104) while the standby screen 400 in the simple transmission mode is displayed, the display 501 in FIG. 7 is displayed.

After that, screens 502 and 5 are displayed in response to a user operation.
The display is transited like 03. Similar to the above, here, in accordance with the operation, the normal operation mode of FIG.
~ 403), the screen transition is performed, but actual setting or transmission operation according to the operation is not performed. Further, similar to the examples of FIGS. 4 and 5, the help mode is displayed in some way on the screen during the help mode.

Thus, even in the simple transmission mode,
The help mode can be activated and can help the user understand the operation. Of course, the timing for activating the help mode is arbitrary as in the normal operation mode, and when the help mode ends, the screen on which the help mode is activated is restored.

[Facsimile Reception] Next, a case where an operation related to facsimile reception (reception related operation) is performed will be described.

In the receiving operation, the multi-function operation mode and the simple mode are provided, and the help mode can be activated from the normal operation mode in any of them.

Regarding facsimile reception, the facsimile apparatus of this embodiment has a function of simultaneously confirming a plurality of incoming data and selectively erasing the incoming data, as will be described later. The display is adapted (multifunctional operation mode when the simple key 101 is off).

On the other hand, when the simple key 101 is turned on, only a part of the functions of the multi-function operation mode can be used and the simple mode in which the operation and the display are simplified can be switched.

The help mode is controlled so that it can be activated at any timing in both the multifunctional operation mode and the simple mode.

(Multifunctional Facsimile Reception / Normal Operation Mode) First, the multifunctional facsimile reception in the normal operation mode will be described.

FIG. 8 shows an operation related to facsimile reception, such as a facsimile reception, when the above-mentioned simple key is not pressed and is set to "OFF", that is, in the normal mode in which all functions related to facsimile reception can be used. The transition of the display state of the liquid crystal screen 121 according to a user operation for performing some operation on the received data is shown.

When the simple key 101 is off, the device is in the multi-function mode, and when the help switch 104 is not on, the device is in the normal operation mode. When performing a reception-related operation, the user presses the facsimile reception key 123 in the standby state in which the standby screen of FIG. 2 is displayed. This operation changes the screen from the standby screen to screen 2.
Change to 21.

By this operation, from the standby screen to the screen 2 in FIG.
21, the reception list is displayed.

This reception list displays information relating to the data received so far. For example, whether it is unread data or already read data, who is the sender, when the data was sent, etc. Is displayed. In this state, as shown in the lower part of the screen, the up / down operation of the cross key 133 can be used to select the received data to be the target of a designation operation such as deletion or printing. When selecting a plurality of received data, a method of using a combination of pressing with another appropriate key can be considered.

When desired reception data is selected in the reception list on the screen 221, and the "Delete" key is pressed, the screen 2
Instead of 22, the data can be erased by selecting the erasing method. On the screen 222, deletion of the selected received data and deletion of all the received data can be selected.

Also, with the screen 221 displayed,
When the "display" key is pressed, the screen 223 is changed to display the contents. In this data display, the "enlargement" key and the "print" key are prepared as the multifunction keys. When the “Print” key is pressed after confirming the display on the screen 223, or when the “Print” key is pressed directly from the screen 221, the screen proceeds to the screen 224, and the number of prints and the color (color printing or monochrome printing) are selected. Then, when the start key 135 is pressed, the operation of printing the received data ends, and the screen displays the status of the device in the order of the printing screen (screen 225) and the ending screen (screen 226). While printing
A "cancel" key is prepared as a multifunction key (screen 225).

(Multifunctional Facsimile Reception / Help Mode) Next, the facsimile reception help mode of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 9 shows the transition of the screen in the help mode regarding the facsimile reception.

First, when the facsimile transmission button 123 is pressed while pressing the help switch 104 on the standby screen of FIG. 2, the screen 321 of FIG. 9 is displayed. As a supplementary explanation of the operation method, as described in the description of FIG. 8, when the facsimile reception button 123 is directly pressed from the standby screen 200, the normal reception mode in which actual facsimile transmission of FIG. 8 is performed starts. ,
Facsimile reception button 12 while pressing (or after pressing) the help switch 104 from the standby screen 200
Pressing 3 starts the help mode of FIG.

After that, the screen transitions as shown in the figure according to the user operation (screens 322, 323, 324-3).
26).

The relationship between FIG. 8 (normal operation mode) and FIG. 9 (help mode) is exactly the same as in the case of FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, and in the help mode of FIG. However, actual setting and reception operation according to the operation are not performed. Further, similar to the examples of FIGS. 4 and 5, the help mode is displayed in some way on the screen during the help mode.

As described above, even in the multifunctional reception mode, the help mode can be activated and the user's understanding of the operation can be assisted. As a matter of course, the timing for starting the help mode may be any timing as described above, and when the help mode is finished, the screen in which the help mode is started in the normal operation mode is restored.

(Simple Facsimile Reception / Normal Operation Mode) The simple mode can also be used in the reception-related operation. When the simple key 101 is turned on, the simple mode is set, and the facsimile reception key 123 can be operated to operate the apparatus using a menu with simplified reception-related operations (simple reception mode). This simple reception mode makes the device easy to use for users who need only simple functions.

In other words, for a user who wants the most basic facsimile reception, such as "I want to print the received data anyway regardless of the image quality etc.", there are many types as shown in FIG. 8 (FIG. 9). The functionalized menus are cumbersome to operate and difficult to master.

Therefore, in the simple reception mode of the present embodiment, one received data is only printed regardless of the image quality or the like, and at that time, a simple screen process is sufficient. . The operation flow of facsimile reception in the simple reception mode will be described below.

FIG. 10 shows the transition of the display state of the liquid crystal screen 121 according to the user's operation when performing the facsimile reception related operation (normal reception mode) in the simple reception mode.

When the simple key 101 is pressed, the screen 400 is displayed as a standby screen. When the facsimile reception key 123 is pressed in that state, the standby screen 4
00 to the screen 421.

One received data item is displayed on this screen. Shows whether this data is unread or read, who the sender is and when it was sent.

If there is other received data, the cross key 1
You can search in the vertical direction of 33. When printing the data displayed on this screen, the operation is terminated by pressing the "Print" key 106a, and the screen displays the device status in the order of the printing screen (screen 423) and the ending screen (screen 424). To do. During this printing, a "cancel" key is prepared as a multifunction key (screen 423).

When the "display" key 106d is pressed on the screen 421, the screen changes to the screen 422 and the contents of the data can be confirmed. When the print key 106c is pressed on this screen, the operation ends, and the screen displays the device status in the order of printing (screen 423) and ending (screen 424).

As described above, when the simple key 101 is on, the received data displayed on the screen at the same time is narrowed down to one, and the screen for setting conditions such as colors like the screen 224 in FIG. 8 is skipped. It is like this. Therefore, it is possible to provide a user interface that is easy for a user who does not use complicated functions to understand and that is easy to learn and operate.

(Simple facsimile reception / help mode)
The help mode can also be used for the reception-related operation (simple facsimile reception) in which the simple key 101 is turned on.

FIG. 11 shows how the screen changes when the help mode is activated in the simple facsimile reception.

When the simple key 101 is on and the standby screen 400 is displayed, if the facsimile reception button 123 is pressed while (or after) pressing the help switch 104, the display of 521 in FIG. 11 is performed.

As a supplementary explanation of the operation method, as described in the description of FIG. 10, when the simple key 101 is on and the standby screen 400 is displayed, if the facsimile reception button 123 is directly pressed, In the state in which the simple reception mode in which actual facsimile reception shown in FIG. 10 is performed is started, and the simple key 101 is on and the standby screen 400 is displayed, the facsimile reception button 123 is pressed while (or after) the help switch 104 is pressed. When is pressed, the help mode of FIG. 11 starts.

After that, the screen transitions as shown in the figure according to the user operation (screens 521 to 522 to 523 to 5).
24). The relationship between FIG. 10 (normal operation mode) and FIG. 11 (help mode) is the same as described above. In the help mode of FIG. 11, screen transitions are performed as in the normal operation mode.
No actual setting or reception operation is performed according to the operation. Further, similar to the examples of FIGS. 4 and 5, the help mode is displayed in some way on the screen during the help mode.

Thus, even in the simple reception mode,
The help mode can be activated and can help the user understand the operation. As a matter of course, the timing for starting the help mode may be any timing as described above, and when the help mode is finished, the screen in which the help mode is started in the normal operation mode is restored.

[Copy] Next, a case of performing a copy operation in the facsimile apparatus of this embodiment will be described. This copy operation is similar to the copy operation of a so-called copying machine that prints an image read by a scanner in a conventional facsimile machine, but in the normal copy mode (simple key 101 is off) of this embodiment, transmission is not performed. As in the case, as the source of the data to be copied, a paper original image (same as "copy" of a conventional facsimile apparatus), a hand scanner image, or a digital photo image input from a PC card can be selected.

In the multifunctional mode, the facsimile apparatus of this embodiment can select from the above data sources when performing copying, while in the simple mode, only paper original copy can be selected as a data source.

(Multifunctional copy / normal operation mode) FIG.
Indicates the display state in the liquid crystal screen 121 according to each operation when the simple key 101 is off, that is, when copying is performed in a multifunctional copy operation (copy-related operation) that can be selected from multiple types of data sources. The transition is shown. First, the operation for copying in the normal copy mode will be described with reference to FIG.

When performing copying in the multi-function copy mode, the copy key 124 is pressed in the standby state in which the standby screen shown in FIG. 2 is displayed. At this time, if the simple key is off, the standby screen changes to the screen 241 in FIG. The user can select what to copy on the screen from the list of screens 241.

In the multi-function copy mode, a general paper original, data read by a hand scanner, and data in a recording medium containing data mainly photographed by a digital camera can be selected as a data source. .

In the present embodiment, the above-mentioned types are assumed as the source to be copied, but it is also possible to set the items of the menu so that another source can be selected. For example, in addition to the above items, it is conceivable to add an input method of data that can be copied to the menu items, such as adding an item of directly receiving data from a digital camera and copying. In any case, it goes without saying that if items are added to the screen, the items can be added without increasing the number of switches and the like.

If there is no scanner image or digital photograph data, the screen 24 is used in this embodiment.
After selecting the item in 1, display a warning message such as "no data" (not shown), but do not display other items that do not have data in advance or display them so that they cannot be selected by lightening the color etc. Can also be considered.

The screen 241 is displayed as in the normal transmission mode.
The item in the area 163 can be selected by operating the cross key 133 up and down to move to the next screen. That is, when "copy paper original on screen" is selected on the screen 241, a screen 242 is displayed, and when the respective values of the number of sheets, color, image quality, and density are selected and the "Enter" key is pressed, the screen changes to the screen 243. . Since any value is selected in the initial state for the item on the screen 242, the setting can be confirmed here. After setting or checking, pressing the start button 135 ends the copy operation, and the screen is the printing screen (screen 24).
3) The device status is displayed in the order of the end screen (screen 244).

When "Print image of scanner" is selected and determined on the screen 241, the screen changes to the screen 245. On this screen, the read scanner data list is displayed. The screen 245 displays when the data is read, whether the content is color or black and white, and the read size is some.

When the "OK" key is pressed here, the screen 24
The screen changes to 6 and the screen for setting the number of copies is displayed. Normally, the number of copies is set to one. The number of sheets can be changed in the vertical direction of the ten-key pad 136 or the cross key 133. After checking or changing the number of copies, start key 1
When the user presses 35, the copy operation ends, and the screen displays the device status in the order of the printing screen (screen 243) and the ending screen (screen 244).

If "Copy digital photograph" is selected on the screen 241, and the "Enter" key is pressed, the screen 24 is displayed.
Change to 7. Print the selected image as an option,
In addition to printing of all images, bibliographic information of image data (for example, management information such as the above reading date and color)
The index list print can be selected. Select how to copy the digital photo data read on the screen 247, and press the "Enter" key to display the screen 2
48, the display of the read image can be confirmed (the image is appropriately reduced or displayed with reduced color if necessary).

When the user confirms the image to be copied and presses the "OK" key, the screen 246 is displayed and the number of sheets is set here. Normally, the number of sheets is set to one, but the number of sheets can be changed with the ten keys 136 and the cross key 133 in the vertical direction.

After confirming or changing the number of copies, the start key 135 is pressed to complete the copy operation, and the screen displays the status of the device in the order of the printing screen (screen 243) and the ending screen (screen 244). Further, when the original is set before the copy key 124 is pressed, the screen 249 is displayed, and the screen is changed to the screen 246 when the start key 135 is pressed. Here, the number of sheets is confirmed or set, and the operation is ended when the start key 135 is pressed. The screen is a printing screen (screen 24
3) The device status is displayed in the order of the end screen (screen 244).

The above is the operation flow in the multifunction copy mode.

(Multifunctional Copy / Help Mode) Next, in the multifunctional copy operation, the operation when the help mode is activated will be described. FIG. 13 shows the transition of the screen when the help mode is activated in the multifunction copy operation of FIG.

In the standby screen 200 of FIG. 3, when the copy button 124 is pressed while (or after) pressing the help switch 104, the screen 341 of FIG. 13 is displayed.

A supplementary explanation of the operation method will be given here. As described with reference to FIG. 12, when the copy button 124 is directly pressed from the standby screen 200, the normal copy mode in which the actual facsimile transmission of FIG. 12 is performed. Begins,
When the copy button 124 is pressed while (or after) pressing the help switch 104 from the standby screen 200, the help mode of the copy function in FIG. 13 starts.

In FIG. 13, all the screens shown in FIG. 12 are in the help mode.

After that, the screen transitions as shown in the figure according to the user's operation (screens 342 to 344). 12
The relationship between (normal operation mode) and FIG. 13 (help mode) is the same as that described above. In the help mode of FIG. 13, screen transitions are performed in the same manner as in normal operation mode, but actual settings and copy operations according to operations are performed. And so on. Further, similar to the examples of FIGS. 4 and 5, the help mode is displayed in some way on the screen during the help mode.

Thus, even in the simple reception mode,
The help mode can be activated and can help the user understand the operation. As a matter of course, the timing for starting the help mode may be any timing as described above, and when the help mode is finished, the screen in which the help mode is started in the normal operation mode is restored.

(Easy Copy / Normal Operation Mode) The help mode can also be used for the copy-related operation (easy copy mode) in which the simple key 101 is turned on. FIG. 14 shows how the screen changes when the help mode is activated in the simple facsimile reception.

In this simple copy mode, only the paper original data source is copied. If you want to perform the most basic copy-related operations, such as "I want to copy a paper original data source," you have to go through several selection screens in the multi-function mode described above, and the operation is complicated. Learning is difficult. If the simple copy mode can be selected by turning on the simple key 101 as described below, it becomes convenient for a user who has only a simple function. In other words, this easy copy mode
The simple function is enough to improve the usability of the device to the user.

FIG. 14 shows the transition of the display state in the liquid crystal screen 121 according to each operation when copying is performed in the simple copy mode.

When the simple key is pressed, the screen 400 is displayed as the standby screen. When the copy key 124 is pressed in this state, this operation causes the standby screen 4
00 to the screen 441.

Here, the number of sheets is set or confirmed, and the operation is ended by depressing the start key 135, and the screen displays the status of the device in the order of the printing screen (screen 442) and the ending screen (screen 443). Also, copy key 12
When the original is set before pressing 4, the screen 444 is displayed, and when the start key 135 is pressed, the screen changes to the screen 441.
Here, the number of sheets is set or confirmed, and the operation is ended by pressing the start key 135, and the screen is being printed (screen 4
42) and the end (screen 443) are displayed in this order.

As described above, in the simple copy mode, when the simple key is "ON", the copy is limited to the paper original copy, and the screen 242 shown in FIG.
Skip the setting screen for color, image quality, etc. Therefore, it is possible to provide a user interface that is easy for a user who does not use complicated functions to understand and that is easy to learn and operate.

In the present embodiment, it is possible to select from three types (paper original, scanner data, digital photograph) as a source that can be copied in the normal copy mode, and in the simple copy mode, only one of the three types of data sources ( In the above example, only paper manuscripts) were used as copy data, but the types of data sources are not limited to these three types, and the number of types of data sources that can be copied in simple copy mode is also one type. It is not limited.

(Easy copy / help mode) Easy key 1
Copy-related operations with 01 turned on (simple copy mode)
You can also use the help mode.

FIG. 15 shows how the screen changes when the help mode is activated in the simple copy mode.

First, when the easy key 101 is pressed and the standby screen 400 is displayed, when the copy button 124 is pressed while (or after) pressing the help switch 104, the screen 541 of FIG. 15 is displayed. To be done.

As a supplementary explanation of the operation method, as described in the description of FIG. 14, the facsimile reception button is directly pressed when the simple key 101 is not pressed and the standby screen 400 is displayed. When the user presses 124, the simple copy mode in which actual copying shown in FIG. 14 is started, the simple key 101 is pressed, and the standby screen 400 is displayed while pressing the help switch 104 (or after pressing the help switch 104). ) When the copy button 124 is pressed, the help mode (screen 541 and thereafter) of FIG. 15 starts.

In FIG. 13, the screen after the screen 541 is in the help mode.

After that, the screen transitions as shown in the figure according to the user's operation (screens 541 to 543, 544).
The relationship between FIG. 14 (normal operation mode) and FIG. 15 (help mode) is the same as that described above. In the help mode of FIG. 15, screen transitions are performed as in the normal operation mode. No copy operation is performed. Further, similar to the examples of FIGS. 4 and 5, the help mode is displayed in some way on the screen during the help mode.

As described above, even in the simple copy mode, the help mode can be activated and the user's understanding of the operation can be assisted. As a matter of course, the timing for starting the help mode may be any timing as described above, and when the help mode is finished, the screen in which the help mode is started in the normal operation mode is restored.

As described above, in this embodiment, the help switch 104 is provided so that the help mode can be entered at any timing during operation. In the help mode, the screen transition is performed in exactly the same manner as in the normal operation mode, but actual setting or copy operation according to the operation is not performed. Further, when the help mode is ended, the screen which is in the help mode is restored. By providing such a help mode, the user can learn the operation of the communication device through the actual operation, and a simple and easy-to-learn user interface of the communication device can be provided.

Further, in the present embodiment, the simple mode can be entered from the multi-function mode by the simple key, and the help mode can also be used in this simple mode as described above. Since the user can learn the operation of the communication device through the actual operation, the operation in the simple mode, which is simple and easy to learn, can be made easier and easier to learn.

The effect of the simple mode of this embodiment will be described below. In this embodiment, the simple key 1
01 is provided to switch the menu displayed on the liquid crystal screen 121 in each communication-related operation such as transmission / reception / copy. Then, in the simple mode in which the simple key 101 is on, a simpler menu display is provided so that only the functions that are considered to be important or in great demand can be selected from the full function menu displayed in the normal mode in which the simple key 101 is off. To do. In the simple mode, the menu that is sequentially displayed in each process of communication-related operations such as transmission / reception / copy is simplified in comparison with the normal mode so that a beginner does not have to hesitate.

That is, the simple key 101 is provided to send / receive
In each of the communication-related operations of reception / copy, the LCD screen 12
Press 1 to switch the displayed menu. In the simple mode in which the simple key 101 is on, a simpler menu display is provided so that only functions that are considered to be important or in high demand can be selected from the full function menu displayed in the normal mode in which the simple key 101 is off. Send / Receive /
In the simple mode, the menu that is sequentially displayed in each process of each communication related operation of copy is simplified compared to the normal mode,
Make sure that beginners do not have to hesitate.

That is, when the simple key is on, only the most basic function in each communication-related operation (transmission / reception / copy) is displayed in the menu (simple mode), and the operation screen is also adjusted accordingly. It becomes possible to provide a device that is easy to use for a user who has only basic functions such as a beginner, and can control it to be simple, and to use it as easily as a communication device having basic functions. Of course, when the simple key is turned off, almost all modes that can be selected in the function communication related operation of the device are displayed as a menu (normal mode), so that a user requiring advanced functions such as a skilled person can request. Can also be satisfied. Moreover, unlike the conventional technical idea of adding a switch or the like for each function, since the present embodiment can be implemented without the need to add new hardware, there is a risk of cost increase due to the addition of functions and complication of operation. Absent.

In this embodiment, the help switch 10
Although button switches are illustrated as the hardware of 4 and the simple key 101, it goes without saying that these operating means can be configured by a lever, a slide switch, a multifunction key, or the like. A voice recognition function may be provided so that the user can perform these operations by voice.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, according to the operation state of the help switch 104, in any of the related operations of facsimile transmission in the multi-function mode, facsimile reception, copying, facsimile transmission in the simple mode, facsimile reception, and copying. Although the help mode can be selected, it is not necessary to provide the help mode in all of them, and it is arbitrary which of these operation modes the help mode is implemented. For example, the help mode may not be selected in simple mode facsimile transmission, facsimile reception, and copying. Further, a configuration may be provided in which a setting unit (a display screen, a user interface by key input, etc.) for presetting an operation mode in which the help mode can be selected is provided by the user.

Further, in the above-mentioned embodiment, although the facsimile transmission, the facsimile reception, and the copying are limited to the basic functions according to the operation state of the simple key, the transmission / reception / copying is performed. The implementation of the "Easy" mode is optional. For example, one of the fax transmission, fax reception, and copy is in the simple operation mode, and other than that, the operation does not change even if the simple key is switched. It may be. In addition, which function changes the operation according to the setting of the simple key,
A configuration may be provided in which setting means (a display screen, a user interface by key input, etc.) preset by the user is provided.

Further, in the above, the normal operation mode in which the communication-related operation is actually executed, and the actual communication-related operation is not executed in response to the operation input from the operation means in each of the operation steps, and is in the normal operation mode at all. Similarly, the configuration is shown in which the help switch 104 is provided as an operating means for selecting any of the help modes for only updating the display. That is, in the help mode, the actual communication-related operation is not executed and only the display is updated in the same manner as in the normal operation mode, so that the transition itself of the display screen is used as the help information. However, the help information may be output by voice in the help mode if necessary. For example, on the screen 325 of FIG. 9, it is conceivable to output a sound such as "Printing is performed here in the normal operation mode" from the speaker. For example,
It is possible to prevent the user from being confused by outputting the help information by voice as necessary in a scene where it is necessary to clearly indicate that an operation different from the actual normal operation mode is performed.

Although the facsimile apparatus has been exemplified above,
It is needless to say that the present invention can be applied to all communication devices that mainly handle multiple functions with the same meaning.

[0165]

As is apparent from the above description, according to the present invention, a plurality of display screens relating to a predetermined communication-related operation are displayed on the display means at each operation stage, and the operation means at each operation stage displays. In a communication device, a communication device control method, and a communication device control program for determining a mode of the communication-related operation according to an operation input, the communication-related operation is actually performed according to an operation input from the operation means in each of the operation stages. Either a normal operation mode in which an operation is executed or a help mode in which the actual communication-related operation is not executed in response to an operation input from the operation means in each operation step and only the display is updated just as in the normal operation mode. By adopting a configuration for selecting either, the user can learn the operation of the communication device through the actual operation, and the user interface of the communication device is simple and easy to learn. It is possible to provide a face,
That is an excellent effect.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an external appearance of a facsimile apparatus adopting the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a front view showing a configuration of an operation panel of a facsimile apparatus adopting the present invention.

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing display control of a multifunctional transmission mode (normal operation mode) of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing display control of a multifunctional transmission mode (help mode) of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing different display controls in a multifunctional transmission mode (help mode) of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing display control in a simple transmission mode (normal operation mode) of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing display control in a simple transmission mode (help mode) of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing display control in a multifunctional reception mode (normal operation mode) of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2.

9 is an explanatory diagram showing display control of a multifunctional reception mode (help mode) of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG.

10 is an explanatory diagram showing display control in a simple reception mode (normal operation mode) of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing display control in a simple reception mode (help mode) of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing display control in a multifunctional copy mode (normal operation mode) of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2.

13 is an explanatory diagram showing display control of a multifunctional copy mode (help mode) of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG.

FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing display control of a simple copy mode (normal operation mode) of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing display control of a simple copy mode (help mode) of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2;

16 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control system of the apparatus shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG.

[Explanation of symbols]

101 Easy Key 102 display unit 104 help switch 106 Multi-function key 121 LCD screen 122 Fax transmission key 123 Fax reception key 124 copy key 133 cross key 136 numeric keypad 165 display area 1001 CPU 1002 LCD screen interface 1003 key input interface 1005 line interface 1006 Scanner interface 1007 PC card interface 1008 ROM 1009 RAM 1010 Printer interface

   ─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continued front page    (72) Inventor Kyoichi Ando             3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo             Non non corporation (72) Inventor Hideki Hayashi             3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo             Non non corporation (72) Inventor Nobuhiro Takeuchi             3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo             Non non corporation F-term (reference) 5B069 CA19                 5C062 AA02 AA05 AB20 AB23 AB46                       AC05 AC58 AF00 BA04                 5E501 AB04 BA05 CA04 CB02 CB03                       EB05 FA02 FA05 FA42                 5K027 BB02 FF22 MM04 MM17

Claims (18)

[Claims] 1. Communication in which a plurality of display screens relating to a predetermined communication-related operation are displayed on a display means for each operation stage, and a mode of the communication-related operation is determined according to an operation input from the operation means at each operation step. In the device, a normal operation mode in which a communication-related operation is actually executed in response to an operation input from the operation means in each operation step, and an actual communication-related mode in accordance with an operation input from the operation means in each operation step A communication device, characterized in that selection means is provided for selecting one of a help mode in which an operation is not executed and only a display is updated just like the normal operation mode. 2. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein switching from the normal operation mode to the help mode by the selection unit is accepted at an arbitrary operation stage. 3. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein when the help mode ends, the display returns to the display screen of the operation stage where the normal operation mode is switched to the help mode. 4. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein in the help mode, an identification display indicating that the help mode is set is displayed. 5. In the help mode, necessary help information is output by voice.
The communication device according to 1. 6. In each of the operation steps, a multifunction mode using a multifunction menu that enumerates almost all modes selectable in communication-related operations, and a predetermined mode among all modes selectable in the communication-related operations The simple mode using a simple menu enumerating is provided, and the help mode is selected in the multi-function mode or the simple mode in response to a predetermined user operation by the selection unit. Communication device. 7. Communication in which a plurality of display screens relating to a predetermined communication-related operation is displayed on a display means for each operation stage, and the mode of the communication-related operation is determined according to an operation input from the operation means at each operation step. In the device control method, a normal operation mode in which a communication-related operation is actually executed in response to an operation input from the operation means in each of the operation steps, and an actual operation mode in response to an operation input from the operation means in each of the operation steps 5. A method of controlling a communication device, comprising: a control step of selecting one of a help mode in which the communication related operation is not executed and the display is only updated in exactly the same manner as the normal operation mode. 8. The method for controlling a communication device according to claim 7, wherein the switching from the normal operation mode to the help mode is accepted at an arbitrary operation stage. 9. The method of controlling a communication device according to claim 7, wherein when the help mode ends, the display screen of the operation stage switched from the normal operation mode to the help mode is restored. 10. The method of controlling a communication device according to claim 7, wherein in the help mode, an identification display indicating that the help mode is set is displayed. 11. The method for controlling a communication device according to claim 7, wherein necessary help information is output by voice in the help mode. 12. In each of the operation steps, a multifunction mode using a multifunction menu that enumerates almost all modes selectable in communication-related operations, and a predetermined mode among all modes selectable in the communication-related operations 8. The method for controlling a communication device according to claim 7, further comprising: a simple mode using a simple menu enumerating the items, and selecting the help mode in the multi-function mode or the simple mode. 13. Communication in which a plurality of display screens relating to a predetermined communication-related operation are displayed on a display means for each operation stage, and a mode of the communication-related operation is determined according to an operation input from the operation means at each operation step. In the control program of the device, a normal operation mode in which a communication-related operation is actually executed according to an operation input from the operation means in each operation step, and an actual operation mode according to an operation input from the operation means in each operation step 2. A control program for a communication device, comprising: a control step of selecting one of a help mode in which the communication related operation is not executed and the display is only updated in exactly the same manner as the normal operation mode. 14. The control program for a communication device according to claim 13, wherein the switching from the normal operation mode to the help mode is accepted at an arbitrary operation stage. 15. When the help mode ends, the display returns to the display screen of the operation stage where the normal operation mode is switched to the help mode.
3. The control program for the communication device according to item 3. 16. The control program for a communication device according to claim 13, wherein in the help mode, an identification display indicating that the help mode is set is displayed. 17. The control program for a communication device according to claim 13, wherein necessary help information is output by voice in the help mode. 18. A multifunctional mode using a multifunctional menu that enumerates almost all modes selectable in communication-related operations in each operation step, and a predetermined mode among all modes selectable in the communication-related operations. 14. The control program of the communication device according to claim 13, wherein a simple mode using a simple menu enumerating the items is provided, and the help mode is selected in the multi-function mode or the simple mode.