JP2007114297A - Image forming apparatus with speech recognition means - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming apparatus capable of creating image forming mode setting environment for substantially reducing user's operation burden, and a control method and a recording medium of the image forming apparatus which is instructed by speech. <P>SOLUTION: The image forming apparatus comprises: a plurality of operation keys for setting various image forming modes; a speech input means for inputting speech; a vocabulary memory means for storing vocabulary used in speech recognition for the plurality of operation keys; a speech recognition means for recognizing speech data input by the speech input means and returning a recognition result; and a control means for performing processing corresponding to the operation key registered in the vocabulary memory means based on the recognition result received from the speech recognition means. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus control method and a storage medium that can be instructed by voice.

  The conventional image forming apparatus can store the copy mode set by the operator in the mode memory means. The normal mode memory means stores the number and / or character registered by the operator in association with the set copy mode.

  When calling the copy mode stored in the mode memory means, the number stored in association with a plurality of stored copy modes is displayed as a soft key on the touch panel display unit, and the operator sets the number to that number. The contents of the copy mode are called up and displayed on the display unit by pressing the corresponding soft key. The operator confirms the content of the displayed copy mode and executes image processing such as copying.

For example, Patent Document 1 can be cited as a conventional example.
JP 2000-181292 A

  However, with the recent development of image forming apparatuses, the number of copy modes that can be stored has increased. Therefore, all the call keys for the number of copy modes that can be stored cannot be arranged in the standard operation screen. The copy mode that can be called directly from the standard screen is restricted.

  Therefore, the call key in the copy mode is not displayed on the standard screen, but is displayed on another screen. In order to display the screen on which the call key is displayed, a plurality of screen switching keys are displayed. I had to press a key.

  Therefore, in the conventional image forming apparatus, as the number of copy modes that can be stored increases, a plurality of key inputs must be performed before the stored copy mode is called, and the operation until the copy mode is called is increased. There is a problem that it is very complicated and takes a lot of time.

  The present invention has been made in order to solve the above-described problems, and enables a copy mode to be called by voice utterance using voice recognition technology.

  An object of the first to fifth aspects of the present invention is to store a plurality of groups of image forming modes set by a plurality of operation keys in a memory resource, and in a registration mode, input sound is stored in the memory resource. In the call mode, the input voice is compared with the already registered voice, and the call of the image formation mode associated with the input voice is made based on the comparison result. By controlling the image forming mode, it is possible to easily call the image forming mode by a simple operation of inputting sound without performing a plurality of key inputs to call the image forming mode. Accordingly, an image forming apparatus capable of providing an image forming mode setting environment that significantly reduces a user's operation burden, an image forming apparatus control method that can be instructed by voice, and a storage medium are provided.

  In an image forming apparatus having a voice recognition function, a user can freely set a name to be a voice recognition target vocabulary for the function.

  When registering the recognition target vocabulary, it is checked whether it is not duplicated with other vocabularies or a similar vocabulary is not used.

  As a result, when the user calls the copy mode, not only can the user use the voice without worrying about the display area, but the function name can be set to a name that is easier for the user to use.

  Furthermore, the above image forming apparatus having a voiceprint authentication function enables user authentication and voice recognition processing with the first utterance, so that not only the user's work procedure is reduced, but also the user's customized screen and vocabulary can be used at the same time. It is possible to provide a user interface.

  As described above, according to the present invention, a user can freely set a name that is a speech recognition target vocabulary for a function. In addition, when registering a recognition target vocabulary, it is checked whether it is duplicated with another vocabulary or a similar vocabulary is not being used. In addition to being able to use the voice without worrying about the area, it is possible to set a function name that is easier for the user to use.

  Furthermore, the above image forming apparatus having a voiceprint authentication function enables user authentication and voice recognition processing with the first utterance, so that not only the user's work procedure is reduced, but also the user's customized screen and vocabulary can be used at the same time. It is possible to provide a user interface.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[Device configuration]
FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional configuration diagram illustrating an example of an image forming apparatus showing an embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, a copying apparatus will be described as an example of an image forming apparatus.

  In FIG. 1, reference numeral 100 denotes a copying apparatus (main body). Reference numeral 200 denotes a circulation type automatic document feeder (hereinafter referred to as RDF), which automatically feeds a document to the document table 101. Reference numeral 250 denotes a sorter that sorts image-formed transfer sheets discharged from the copying apparatus 100. These RDF 200 and sorter 250 are configured to be used in any combination with the main body 100. Reference numeral 200a denotes a paper discharge tray, which is a tray for discharging the original fed to the document placement table 101 by the RDF 200.

  The document placement table 101 is a document table glass on which a document fed from the RDF 200 is placed. Reference numeral 102 denotes an optical system for performing an exposure operation on a document image placed on the document placement table 101, and includes a document illumination lamp (exposure lamp) 103, a scanning mirror 145, a lens 143, a motor 104, and the like.

  106 is a primary charger, 107 is a blank exposure unit, 108 is a potential sensor, 109 is a developer, 110 is a transfer charger, 111 is a separation charger, and 112 is a cleaning device. These are arranged around the photosensitive drum 105. Established. The photosensitive drum 105 and these units 106 to 112 constitute an image recording means. A motor 113 rotates the photosensitive drum 105 in the direction of the arrow in the figure.

  Reference numeral 114 denotes an upper cassette, and 115 denotes a lower cassette, in which transfer paper is stored. Reference numerals 118 and 119 denote paper feed rollers, which transfer transfer paper picked up from the upper and lower cassettes 114 and 115 by the pickup rollers 116 and 117 to the paper feed roller 132. Reference numeral 124 denotes a deck that can store, for example, 4000 transfer sheets mounted on the main body 100. A lifter 125 is raised according to the amount of transfer paper so that the transfer paper stored in the deck 124 always comes into contact with the paper feed roller 126.

  Reference numeral 120 denotes a registration roller, and the transfer paper is fed so that the leading edge of the transfer paper conveyed by the paper feeding roller 132 or the paper feeding roller 126 of the deck 124 coincides with the leading edge of the toner image developed on the photosensitive drum 105. Is conveyed to the photosensitive drum 105.

  A conveyance belt 121 conveys the transfer paper on which the toner image is transferred to the fixing device 122. A fixing device 122 fixes the toner image on the transfer paper by pressurizing and heating the transfer paper with the fixing roller 144. A discharge roller 123 discharges the transfer paper on which the toner image is fixed. Reference numeral 127 denotes a paper discharge flapper, which switches the conveyance path of the transfer paper fed from the discharge roller 123 to either the double-sided recording side or the multiple recording side or the discharge side (sorter 250). Here, when double-sided recording or multiple recording is set, the conveyance path of the transfer paper sent from the discharge roller 123 is switched to the double-sided recording side or the multiple recording side.

  Reference numeral 128 denotes a lower conveyance path, and the transfer sheet fed from the discharge roller 123 is turned over through the reverse path 129 and guided to the refeed tray 130. Reference numeral 131 denotes a multiple flapper that switches between double-sided recording and multiple recording conveyance paths. By tilting this to the left, the transfer sheet can be directly guided to the lower conveyance path 128 without going through the reverse path. Reference numeral 130 denotes a refeed tray that temporarily stores the transfer paper conveyed from the lower conveyance path 128.

  The paper feed roller 132 feeds the transfer paper to the photosensitive drum 105 side through the path 133. A paper discharge roller 134 is disposed in the vicinity of the paper discharge flapper 127 and discharges the transfer paper switched to the discharge side by the paper discharge flapper 127 to the outside of the apparatus.

  Hereinafter, the operation of each unit will be described.

  The exposure lamp 103 and the scanning mirror are driven by the motor 104 to illuminate the original with the exposure lamp 103 while scanning the original placed on the original placing table 101, and reflected light from the original is scanned by the scanning mirror 145 and the lens 143. Irradiates the photosensitive drum 105.

  The photosensitive drum 105 is rotated in the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 1 by the main motor 113. At this time, the surface of the photosensitive drum 105 is corona-charged by the primary charger 106. When the reflected light of the document is irradiated, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 105. This electrostatic latent image is developed by the developing device 109 and visualized as a toner image.

  On the other hand, the transfer paper sent from the upper cassette 114 or the lower cassette 115 through the pickup rollers 116 and 117 into the main body 100 by the paper feed rollers 118 and 119 is transferred to the leading edge of the toner image and the leading edge of the transfer paper by the registration rollers 120. After the timing is reached, the toner is fed to the photosensitive drum 105 and the toner image is transferred by the transfer charger 110.

  After the toner image is transferred to the transfer paper, the transfer paper is separated from the photosensitive drum 105 by the separation charger 111, guided to the fixing device 122 by the conveyor belt 121, and fixed on the transfer paper by pressurization and heating. Is done. Thereafter, the paper is discharged by the discharge roller 123. Further, the surface of the photosensitive drum 105 is cleaned by the cleaning device 112.

  At the time of double-sided recording (double-sided copying) or multiple recording (multiple copying), the paper discharge flapper 127 is raised upward, and the copied transfer paper is already recorded at the time of double-sided recording via the reverse path 129 and the conveyance path 128. When the multiple recording is performed, the sheet is stored in the refeed tray 130 so that the surface on which the image has already been recorded is positioned downward. At this time, the multiple flapper 131 is tilted to the right in the drawing at the time of duplex recording, and the multiple flapper 131 is tilted to the left in the drawing at the time of multiple recording.

  At the time of backside recording or multiple recording to be performed next, the transfer paper stored in the refeed tray 130 is guided to the registration roller 120 of the main body via the path 133 by the paper feed roller 132 one by one from the bottom. When the transfer paper is reversed and discharged from the main body 100, the paper discharge flapper 127 is raised upward in the drawing, the multiple flapper 131 is tilted to the right in the drawing, and the copied transfer paper is transferred to the conveyance path 129 side to transfer. After the trailing edge of the paper passes through the first feed roller 140, the paper is conveyed to the second feed roller 141 by the reverse roller 142, and the transfer paper is turned over by the discharge roller 134 and discharged outside the apparatus.

[Block Diagram]
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a control system that controls the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  In the figure, 1000 represents the main body 100 of FIG. A control circuit (controller) 230 includes a CPU 230a, a ROM 230b, a RAM 230c, a non-volatile memory 230d, and the like. The CPU 230a performs overall control of a copying sequence based on a control program stored in the ROM 230b. The RAM 230c is used as a work area for the CPU 230a.

  The non-volatile memory 230d includes a hard disk, flash memory, EEPROM, EPROM, and the like, and stores programs and data necessary for speech recognition and speech synthesis.

  An operation unit 218 is a copy mode (single-sided / double-sided / multiple mode, copy magnification, cassette selection, etc.) setting key, a numeric keypad for setting the number of copies, a start key for instructing start of copying operation, and a stop for instructing stop of copying operation. A key input unit such as a reset key for returning the key and the operation mode to the standard state and a display unit such as an LED and a liquid crystal for displaying the setting state of the operation mode and the like are arranged. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

  An analog / digital (A / D) conversion unit 201 converts an analog signal representing the surface temperature of the fixing roller 144 detected by the thermistor 202 into a digital signal, and inputs the converted digital value to the controller 230. The controller 230 controls the surface temperature of the fixing roller 144 to be a predetermined value based on the detection value of the thermistor 202.

  A high-voltage control unit 203 controls a high-voltage unit 204 that applies a predetermined potential to the charging system such as the primary charger 106 and the transfer charger 110 and the developing device 109. A motor control unit 205 controls driving of motors such as various stepping motors and main drive motors.

A DC load control unit 207 controls driving of a solenoid (not shown) for the pickup roller 116, a clutch for the registration roller 120, a fan, and the like.
Reference numeral 208 denotes sensors, which are constituted by various sensors for detecting a paper jam of the transfer paper, and the detection results of these sensors are input to the controller 230.

  The microphone 312 detects audio input. The gain control (Gain control) 212 adjusts the sound input from the microphone 312 to a sound volume optimum for sound recognition. The A / D converter 213 converts an analog signal into a digital signal, and performs A / D conversion on the sound input from the gain control 212. The converted value is input to the controller 230, and the controller 230 performs voice recognition.

  The voice data synthesized by the controller 230 is converted into an analog signal by the digital / analog (D / A) converter 219, and the converted value is output from the speaker 220.

  An AC driver 214 controls the AC load 209 such as the document illumination lamp 103 shown in FIG. 1 and the AC power supply to the fixing heater 210, detects an abnormality in the document illumination lamp 103, the fixing heater 210, etc. The main switch (MSW) 215 with the off function is turned off. Further, the AC input before and after the main switch 215 is switched by the control of the controller 230 and is input to the power source 217.

  A power source 217 supplies DC power to the controller 230 and the like. In addition, AC power from the AC driver 214 is input, and AC power is input from the input power plug 211 via the main switch (MSW) 215 and door switch (DSW) 216.

  The paper deck 124 is a paper feeding device for increasing the number of transfer papers stored, the feeder 200 is an automatic document feeder for automatically setting a plurality of documents, and the sorter 250 is a transfer to be discharged. A sorting apparatus for sorting paper.

  The facsimile unit 221 decompresses the compressed image data received via the telephone line, transfers the decompressed image data to the controller 230, and compresses the image data transferred from the controller 230, thereby compressing the compressed image data. Data is transmitted over a telephone line. Note that the compressed image data received by the facsimile unit 221 can be temporarily stored in the nonvolatile memory 230d.

  The computer interface unit 223 is an interface for connecting the personal computer or workstation (PC / WS) 224 or the scanner or network scanner 225 and the controller 230 via the network 226 and represents an image transferred from the PC / WSl10. Code data (image data, PDL (Page Description Language) data), and image data received via a predetermined communication medium transferred from the scanner or network scanner 225 such as a network, Centronics cable, 232C cable, etc. And is stored in the non-volatile memory 230d via the controller 230.

  Although not shown, the PC / WS 110 includes a display unit that displays various information, a keyboard and a pointing device that accept input from the user, a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, a network interface, and the like. The network scanner 225 includes a reading unit that reads a document image, an operation panel that receives input from a user, a display unit that displays various information, a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, and a network interface.

[Explanation of operation unit]
FIG. 3 is a plan view for explaining an example of the configuration of the operation unit 218 shown in FIG.

  In the figure, reference numeral 300 denotes a copy start key which is pressed when starting a copying operation. Reference numeral 301 denotes a stop key which is pressed to stop copying (cancel or interrupt). Reference numeral 302 denotes a clear key which is pressed when clearing an input numerical value.

  Reference numeral 303 denotes an ID key. The ID key 303 enables a specific operator to perform a copying operation, and the copying operation can be prohibited unless an ID is input using the ID key.

  A guide key 304 is pressed when it is necessary to explain each function of the copying apparatus 100, the RDF 200, the sorter 250, and the like. Reference numeral 305 denotes an operator memory key which is pressed to set the specifications and status of the copying apparatus 100, RDF 200, sorter 250, and the like. The operator mode includes function settings (two types) for assigning desired functions to keys, specification settings, timer settings, and adjustment / cleaning settings.

  An interrupt key 306 is pressed when interrupting during copying and another copy is desired. A preheating key 307 is pressed when it is desired to shift to a preheating mode in which power consumption is reduced or when it is desired to return from the preheating mode. Reference numeral 308 denotes a reset key, which is pressed to return the copy mode to the standard copy mode. Reference numeral 309 denotes a numeric keypad, which is used for inputting numerical values, for example, setting magnification, inputting the number of copies, and the like.

  A liquid crystal display operation unit 310 is configured by a touch panel display, which displays the status of the copying apparatus 100, the RDF 200, the sorter 250, etc. and the setting status of the copying mode, and is displayed by touching the displayed soft key. The screen changes and transitions, and the copy mode setting operation can be performed. Reference numeral 311 denotes a voice input key. By pressing this key, the microphone 312 can be input. Reference numeral 313 denotes a voice output for confirming voice guidance or voice uttered by the user through a speaker.

[Standard screen]
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a standard screen displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit 310 shown in FIG.

  Buttons are displayed for each of a plurality of functions such as a copy 401, a transmission 402, and a box 403 at the top of the operation unit. FIG. 4 shows an initial screen of the copy function when the copy 401 is pressed.

  A status display field 404 displays the status of the copying apparatus 100, RDF 200, sorter 240, and the like, the set number, the set magnification, the specified paper size, and the like.

  Reference numeral 405 denotes an equal-magnification key which is pressed when copying at the same size as the original.

  A magnification key 406 is pressed when the output size is desired to be reduced / enlarged than the document size.

  A paper selection key 407 is pressed to select a paper size and type and a paper feed position.

  408, 409, and 410 are density keys, and when the copy density is manually adjusted, the 408 light key or 510 dark key is pressed. To set or cancel the automatic density adjustment, the user presses the 409 automatic key.

  Reference numeral 411 denotes a sorter key, which is pressed when setting the output form of the sorter 240 (non-sort, sort, group sort, etc.) stapling position.

  Reference numeral 412 denotes a double-sided key, which is pressed when copying a single-sided / double-sided document or book document on the front and back of a sheet and a double-sided document on one side.

  Reference numeral 413 denotes an image quality key, which is pressed to select and copy the image quality (text-only original, text / photo mixed original, photo-only original, etc.).

  An interrupt key 414 is pressed when it is desired to interrupt and copy during copying.

  Reference numerals 415 and 416 denote favorite keys, and up to two arbitrary keys can be registered from among the magnification, sorter, double-sided mode keys on the copy basic screen, and mode keys on the application mode screen. By registering frequently used functions, it is possible to jump to the setting screen without following the hierarchy.

  In this embodiment, it is assumed that a mode memory capable of registering the set function and automatic scaling for automatically determining the magnification from the document size and the output size are registered.

  Reference numeral 417 denotes an application mode key which is pressed when performing various functions of the copying apparatus. When the application mode key 417 is pressed, an application mode screen (FIG. 5) is displayed.

  A status line 418 is an area for displaying the status of the copying apparatus 100. For example, an alarm message such as a jam or a status message indicating that PDL printing is being performed when PDL printing is being performed is displayed. .

  A voice name setting key 419 is pressed when a user adds, confirms, or deletes a vocabulary used for voice recognition.

Reference numeral 420 denotes a system status / cancel key, which is pressed to change the screen for displaying device information of the copying apparatus 100, check the print job status, change the order, or cancel. (Not shown)
A transmission key 402 transmits an image read by the copying apparatus 100 to a device on the network 226 by E-mail transmission or FTP transmission. Alternatively, a setting screen for transmitting using a telephone line by FAX is displayed. (Not shown)
Reference numeral 403 denotes a box key, which stores an image read by the copying apparatus 100 in a box area in the hard disk of the non-volatile memory 230d, designates and prints image data stored in the box area, and is on the network 226. Display the settings screen for sending to the device. 4 is a standard screen (basic screen), which is a screen displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit 310 in a standard state such as when the power is turned on, after pressing the reset key 308 shown in FIG. It is. A status display field 401 displays the status of the copying apparatus 100, the RDF 200, the sorter 240, and the like, the set number, the set magnification, the specified paper size, and the like.

[Mode memory registration method]
A method for registering a function in the mode memory will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 9 to 13.

  The present embodiment will be described by taking as an example a case where settings such as double-sided / double-sided / left / right open, up / down open, staple sort, and 15 copies are frequently used functions.

  A double-side key 416 on the standard screen in FIG. 4 is pressed. When pressed, the setting screen (FIG. 9) opens. FIG. 9 shows a screen for selecting both types. Reference numeral 901 denotes a double-sided key from one side, which is pressed when it is desired to copy two single-sided originals on both sides of one sheet. A button 902 is pressed when it is desired to copy the front and back of a double-sided document set in the RDF 200 from both sides with a double-sided key on the front and back of one sheet. A button 903 is pressed when both sides of the current front and back surfaces set in the RDF 200 are to be copied on a single sheet from one side to another sheet. A page continuous copy double-side key 904 is pressed when the left and right pages of a two-page spread document such as a book are to be copied on both sides of one sheet of paper. 905 is a detail setting key, which can be pressed when the single-sided / double-sided key 901, double-sided / double-sided key 902, or double-sided / single-sided key 903 is selected. If the output is double-sided or the output is double-sided, it can be set whether the output is left-right or left-right. A setting cancel key 906 is pressed to cancel the duplex function setting. A button 907 is pressed when the setting of the duplex function is confirmed with an OK key.

  In this embodiment, in order to set both sides from both sides, the both sides key 902 is pressed from both sides. Then, in order to set the vertical opening from the left / right opening, the detailed setting key 905 is pressed.

  When pressed, the double-sided detailed setting screen of FIG. 10 is opened. This is a screen for selecting the type of duplex original and the type of duplex copy output. Reference numeral 1001 denotes a document left / right opening key, which is pressed when the document is opened left / right. Reference numeral 1002 denotes a document up / down opening key which is pressed when the document is opened up / down. A copy left / right open key 1003 is pressed to output a copy in a left / right open. A copy up / down key 1004 is pressed to output a copy up / down. Reference numeral 1005 denotes a key for registering details selected by the close key.

In this embodiment, since the vertical opening is set from the left / right opening, the document left / right opening key 1001 and the copy up / down opening key 1004 are pressed, and the close 1005 key is pressed to set the vertical opening from the left / right opening. Return to the selection screen. Since the setting for the duplex function is complete, the OK key 907 is pressed to finish the duplex function setting. When the setting is completed, the screen returns to the standard screen shown in FIG. The set function is reversed. (Fig. 12)
Next, when the sorter key 411 in FIG. 4 is pressed to set the sorter, the sorter selection screen in FIG. 11 is opened. 1101 is pressed to automatically collate when a plurality of originals are copied using a sort key. A button 1102 is pressed when sorting by page when copying a plurality of originals with a group key. 1103 is pressed when a plurality of originals are copied with a staple sort key and automatically collated and stapled (stapled) after the copy is completed. Reference numeral 1104 denotes a shift key, which is pressed when the sheets output when copying using the sort function and group function are collectively shifted and sorted. A button 1105 is pressed to set the orientation of the print surface of the paper output by the paper discharge surface designation key. A setting cancel key 1106 is pressed to cancel the sorter function setting. 1107 is pressed to confirm the setting of the sorter function with the OK key.

In this embodiment, in order to set the staple sort, the staple sort key 1103 is pressed, and the OK key 1107 is pressed to confirm the setting. When the setting is completed, the screen returns to the standard screen shown in FIG. The set function is reversed. (Fig. 12)
Finally, set the number of copies. When “1” and “5” are entered using the numeric keys on the standard screen of FIG. 4, 15 copies are set. FIG. 12 shows a standard screen when all settings are completed.

  Up to this point, the double-sided / double-sided / left / right open, up / down open, stapling sort, and setting of 15 copies have been completed. Next, the mode memory registration method will be described.

  When the mode memory 415 key in FIG. 12 is pressed, a mode memory setting screen is displayed.

  The mode memory setting will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 13A shows a mode memory registration screen. Nine functions of the keys M1 to M9 can be registered. In the present embodiment, a case where M1 is pressed among nine keys will be described. When the M1 key is pressed, the key is reversed and the registration key and name registration key can be pressed. (FIG. 13 (b)) When the registration key that can be pressed is pressed, FIG. 13 (c) is displayed, and a confirmation screen for the function to be registered is displayed. When the Yes key is pressed, FIG. 13D is displayed, indicating that it has been correctly registered in M1. Next, when the name registration key is pressed, the keyboard screen shown in FIG. 13 (e) is displayed. A name can be set for M1 currently displayed. When the OK key is pressed when the input is completed, FIG. 13F is displayed, and it can be confirmed that “format1” is set as the name.

[Voice name setting method]
A method for setting a voice name in the mode memory M1 (format 1) registered earlier will be described with reference to FIGS.

  In FIG. 13G, the voice name setting key 419 is pressed to enter the voice name setting mode. When the voice name setting mode is entered, the voice name setting key 419 is reversed to indicate that the voice name setting mode is currently entered. Next, press the key you want to set the name. In this case, in order to assign a name to the mode memory 1, the key labeled format1 is pressed.

  When pressed, the name setting screen of FIG. 5 is displayed. A registered name display screen 501 displays a name registered in the mode memory 1. Reference numeral 502 denotes an erasure prohibition icon representing a preset name. A plurality of vocabulary words 503 and 504 are registered with page turning keys, and can be pressed when the display covers a plurality of pages. A button 505 is used to add a name with an add key. A detail / edit key 506 is pressed to change the accent of the currently selected name. The user presses 507 to delete the currently selected name with the delete key. It can be pressed when a name other than the preset is selected.

  A setting cancel key 508 is pressed to cancel the name setting. A return key 509 is pressed to return to the previous screen without reflecting the setting. The user presses 510 when reflecting the setting with the OK key and returning to the previous screen.

  Here, the movement when the additional key 505 is pressed will be described.

  When pressed, the name registration screen of FIG. 6 is displayed. A name 601 can be visually confirmed on the name input screen. Reference numeral 602 denotes a software keyboard group for inputting a name by key input. A button 603 is pressed to cancel the name registration with a cancel key. A button 604 is pressed to confirm the accent of the name input with the accent setting key or to change the accent. 605 is input with the OK key. If it is correct, the OK key is pressed. When this key is pressed, the input character string, the recognition ID of the key (mode memory 1 in this case) for which name registration is desired, and the set accent are stored in the nonvolatile memory 230d.

  In this embodiment, a case where the name “ordinary” is registered in the mode memory 1 will be described. Enter the name “Good” from the soft keyboard. When confirming whether the registration is correct or when changing the accent, the accent setting key 604 is pressed.

  A screen when the accent setting key 604 is pressed is shown in the accent setting screen of FIG.

  Reference numeral 701 denotes an accent change key group, which displays the character string input in FIG. There is an accent at the point where the key is raised. This key group is operated to change the accent. A reference numeral 702 reads out by an accent set by a voice confirmation key. When this key is pressed, digital audio data is generated based on the currently input text sentence and the set accent. The generated digital audio data is converted into analog audio data by the D / A converter 219 and output from the speaker 220.

  A button 703 is pressed to cancel name registration with a cancel key. A return key 704 is pressed to return to the name registration screen in FIG. 6 without reflecting the setting. A button 705 is pressed to reflect the setting with the OK key and return to the name registration screen of FIG.

  When the 705 OK key in FIG. 7 is pressed, the screen returns to the name setting screen in FIG. 6 and the registered name is displayed. When an OK key 610 (not shown) is pressed, a check is made as to whether or not a similar name has already been registered in the words that can be spoken in FIG. If it is NG, an error screen is displayed. If it is OK (not shown), the additional registration is completed.

The above will be described in detail using the flowchart of FIG. (() Represents the steps in FIG. 16)
First, it is determined whether or not the voice name setting mode has been selected (S1601). If not in voice name setting mode, wait. When the voice name setting mode is selected, the voice name setting mode is activated (S1602). Next, it is determined whether or not there is a function selection within a certain time (S1603). If no function is selected for a certain period of time, a time-out notification is sent to the user (S1604), the voice name setting mode is exited (S1605), and a standby is performed. If a function is selected within a certain time, the voice name assigned to the selected function name is acquired and the voice name setting screen is displayed (S1606). Next, it is determined whether or not there is an input within a predetermined time (S1607). If there is no input, the step of (S1604) is performed. If there is an input for a certain period of time, it is determined whether the name is selected or added (S1608). If the name is selected, it is determined whether the selected name is a preset name (S1609). If it is a preset name, since deletion is prohibited, the edit key can be selected without selecting the delete key (S1610). If it is not a preset name, a delete key and an edit key can be selected (S1611). Next, it is determined whether or not there is an input within a predetermined time (S1612). If there is no input, the step of (S1604) is performed. If the input matches for a certain time, it is determined whether the name is added, edited, or deleted (S1613). If a name is selected, step (S1609) is performed. If it is added, a step (S1618) described later is performed. If it is editing, an accent editing screen is displayed (S1614). It is determined whether or not the input is completed (S1615), and if completed, the edited accent is registered. When deletion is selected in (S1613), the selected name is deleted.

  When addition is selected in the step of (S1608), a name input screen is displayed (S1618). Next, it is determined whether or not the input is confirmed (S1619). If the input is confirmed, the name is checked (S1620). In the name check, a screen in which the function name to which the input name is linked is used is searched. It is determined whether the vocabulary used in the searched screen and the input name are the same or similar. If it is the same as or already similar to the registered name, it is judged as NG and a NG notification and a name re-input request are made to the user (S 1623). If it is not the same as the name already registered and it is not similar, it is judged as OK and the name is registered (S1622). When registered, names are additionally registered for all screens where function names are used. It is determined whether or not termination by the user has been selected (S1624). If not terminated, the process returns to step (S1606) again. When the end is selected, the voice name setting mode is exited (S1625), and the screen returns to the first screen.

[Voice recognition method]
Next, a method for restoring settings by voice will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the voice recognition processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to the processing executed by the CPU 230a based on the control program stored in the ROM 230b shown in FIG. In addition, (801)-(807) show each step.

  First, the standard screen shown in FIG. 14A is displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit 310 (801), it is determined whether the voice input key 311 shown in FIG. 3 is pressed (802), and the voice input key 311 is displayed. If it is determined that is not pressed, the process returns to step (802). If it is determined that the voice input key 311 is pressed, the process proceeds to step (803). At this time, the screen shown in FIG. 14B is displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit 310. Reference numeral 1420 denotes a status line for notifying the user that the voice recognition mode is set.

  In step (803), the sound input from the microphone 312 while the sound input key 311 is pressed is input to the control circuit 230 via the gain control circuit 212 and the A / D conversion unit 213.

  In step (804), the phonetic symbol generated from the voice input in step (803), the name registered in association with the registered name in the nonvolatile memory 230d shown in FIG. 2, and the input voice data. The likelihood is calculated from the generated phonetic symbols.

  Next, in step (805), it is determined whether or not the result for the name having the highest likelihood in step (804) is greater than or equal to a threshold value.

  If it is not equal to or greater than the threshold value, it is determined that recognition has failed, and step (806) is executed to return to the recognition standby state again.

  If it is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the function assigned to the recognition result in step (807) is executed. At this time, FIG. 14C is displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit 310, and the recognition result and function assignment are displayed in 1430.

  In step (406), a copy function corresponding to the sound input in step (403) is called. At this time, FIG. 14D is displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit 310, and the corresponding function is restored.

  In the previous embodiment, an example of speech recognition by an unspecified speaker has been described. However, Embodiment 1 in speech recognition having a voiceprint authentication function will be described with reference to the data diagram of FIG. 18 and the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the voice recognition mode is activated (S1501). Next, the process stands by for recognition using the common vocabulary data, the data of Mr. A, and the data of Mr. B in FIG. It is determined whether or not there is a voice input (S1503). If there is a voice input, voiceprint authentication is executed (S1505). It is determined whether the result of the voiceprint authentication is Mr. A, Mr. B, or an unregistered user (S1505). If it is Mr. A, voice recognition is performed on the voice data input with Mr. A's vocabulary data and common vocabulary data (S1506). In the case of Mr. B, voice recognition is performed on the voice data input as common data with Mr. B's vocabulary data (S1507). If the user is not registered, voice recognition is performed on the voice input with the common data (S1508). A recognition ID for the voice recognition result is acquired (S1509), and a determination for the recognition ID is made (S1510). If it is determined that the input voice recognition result is the end, the voice recognition mode is ended (S1511). If it is determined that the input speech recognition result is other than the end, the process assigned to the recognition ID is executed (S1512), and the process returns to the step (S1502) to return to the common vocabulary data, A's data, B Wait for voice input with the data.

  Next, a second embodiment of speech recognition having a voiceprint authentication function will be described with reference to the data diagram of FIG. 19 and the flowchart of FIG. First, the voice recognition mode is activated (S1701). Next, the process waits for recognition using the common data, the data of Mr. A, and the data of B in FIG. 19 (S1702). It is determined whether or not there is a voice input (S1703). If the voice input is correct, voiceprint authentication is executed (S1705). It is determined whether the result of the voiceprint authentication is Mr. A or Mr. B or whether the user is not registered (S1705). If it is Mr. A, voice recognition is performed on the voice data inputted with the vocabulary data of A and the common vocabulary data (S1706). If it is Mr. B, voice recognition is performed on the voice data input with the vocabulary data and common data of Mr. B (S1707). If the user is not registered, voice recognition is performed on the voice input as common data (S1708). A recognition ID for the voice recognition result is acquired (S1709), and a determination for the recognition ID is made (S1710). If it is determined that the input voice recognition result is the end, the authentication information is cleared (S1711), and the voice recognition mode is ended (S1712). If it is determined that the input voice recognition result is logout, the authentication information is cleared (S1713), and the process returns to the step (S1702), and voice input is performed with the common vocabulary data, the data of A, and the data of B. Wait. If it is determined that it is not the end, the process assigned to the recognition ID is executed (S1714), and the voice input is waited for with the vocabulary data determined in the steps of (S1706), (S1707), and (S1708) (S1715). It is determined whether or not there is a voice input (S1703). If there is a voice input (S1716), voice recognition is executed with the expanded vocabulary data (S1717), and the process returns to (S1709) to determine the recognition ID.

  In the above-described embodiment, the copying apparatus is described as an example. However, the above-described embodiment may be applied to a printer or a multifunction copying machine having a copy function, a printer function, a facsimile function, and the like. In this case, it is possible to register not only the copy mode but also a processing mode that can be set by the multifunction copying machine such as a printing mode and a facsimile mode, and the registered processing mode is configured to be called out by voice as described above. .

  The image forming apparatus to which the present invention can be applied may be an electrophotographic system, an ink jet system, a sublimation system, a thermal transfer system, or other systems.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, the case where the image forming mode of the image forming apparatus and the input sound are registered in association with each other has been described. However, the image forming mode is not limited to the image forming mode of the image forming apparatus, and other settings are supported. Needless to say, the present invention can also be applied to the case of registering voice to be recorded.

  From the above, even if the keys that call the processing mode cannot be displayed in a list on the screen depending on the size of the display screen, the processing mode can be changed in a short time with a simple operation of inputting voice without performing complicated operations such as inputting multiple keys. It is possible to provide an image forming mode setting environment that can be called up and that greatly reduces the user's operation burden.

  A storage medium storing software program codes for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or apparatus, and a computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus stores program codes stored in the storage medium. It goes without saying that the object of the present invention can also be achieved by executing the reading.

  In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

  As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a flexible disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, CD-R, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM, EEPROM, silicon disk, etc. Can be used.

  Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (operating system) or the like running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by performing part or all of the actual processing and the processing is included.

  Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written to a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function expansion is performed based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that the case where the CPU or the like provided in the board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.

  Further, the present invention may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices or an apparatus composed of a single device. Needless to say, the present invention can be applied to a case where the present invention is achieved by supplying a program to a system or apparatus. In this case, by reading the storage medium storing the program represented by the software for achieving the present invention into the system or apparatus, the system or apparatus can enjoy the effects of the present invention. .

  Furthermore, by downloading and reading a program represented by software for achieving the present invention from a database on a network by a communication program, the system or apparatus can enjoy the effects of the present invention. .

1 is a cross-sectional configuration diagram illustrating an example of an image forming apparatus illustrating an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a control system that controls an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a top view explaining an example of composition of an operation part. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the standard screen displayed on a liquid crystal display operation part. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the audio | voice name setting screen displayed on a liquid crystal display operation part. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the audio | voice name input screen displayed on a liquid crystal display operation part. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the screen which changes the accent at the time of the voice name setting displayed on a liquid crystal display operation part. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a voice registration processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. It is a figure explaining an example of the screen transition displayed on a liquid crystal display operation part, when setting both sides (from one side to both sides / up-down opening). It is a figure explaining an example of the screen transition displayed on a liquid crystal display operation part, when setting both sides (from one side to both sides / up-down opening). It is a figure explaining an example of the screen transition displayed on a liquid crystal display operation part, when setting a sort (staple sort). It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the standard screen displayed on a liquid crystal display operation part. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the screen at the time of copy mode registration by the sound displayed on a liquid crystal display operation part. It is a figure (flow chart which shows a 1st processing program) explaining an example of the screen transition displayed on a liquid crystal display operation part, when setting both sides (both sides from a single side / up-down opening). It is a figure explaining the flowchart about Example 1 in the speech recognition with a voiceprint authentication function. It is a figure explaining the flowchart which shows one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the flowchart about Example 2 in the speech recognition with a voiceprint authentication function. It is a data figure about Example 1 in the speech recognition with a voiceprint authentication function. It is a data figure about Example 2 in the speech recognition with a voiceprint authentication function.

Claims (6)

Multiple operation keys for setting various image forming modes,
Voice input means for inputting voice;
From the vocabulary storage means for storing the vocabulary used for speech recognition with respect to the plurality of operation keys, the speech recognition means for speech recognition of speech data input by the speech input means and returning a recognition result, and the speech recognition means Control means for performing processing corresponding to the operation key registered in the vocabulary storage means based on the received recognition result;
An image forming apparatus comprising: 2. The image according to claim 1, further comprising: a vocabulary input unit that inputs a vocabulary used in speech recognition for the plurality of operation keys; and a vocabulary registration unit that registers a vocabulary registered by the name input unit in the vocabulary storage unit. Forming equipment. Whether or not the vocabulary input means for inputting the vocabulary used in speech recognition and the vocabulary registered by the name input means may be additionally registered in the vocabulary storage means for the processing means including voice commands other than the operation keys. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a vocabulary registration determining unit that determines and a control unit that registers in the vocabulary storage unit when it is determined that registration is possible by the name registration determining unit. A vocabulary registration determination unit that determines whether or not the vocabulary registered by the name input unit may be additionally registered in the vocabulary storage unit; and a vocabulary when the name registration determination unit determines that the vocabulary may be registered The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a control unit registered in the storage unit.   4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising an accent changing unit capable of changing an accent of a vocabulary used in voice recognition for a plurality of operation keys or voice commands. Vocabulary registration means capable of vocabulary registration for each user,
The vocabulary storage means for storing the vocabulary data registered by the vocabulary registration means for each user;
Voiceprint authentication means for authenticating the voice data input by the voice input means;
Vocabulary acquisition means for acquiring vocabulary data of a user authenticated by the voiceprint authentication means from a vocabulary storage means;
4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising voice recognition means for performing voice recognition on the voice data input from the voice input means based on the vocabulary data acquired by the vocabulary acquisition means. .

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