JP2001274939A - Screen display method, screen display device and picture processor - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a screen display method and a screen display device with which the type of a selected processing operation can be easily recognized when a plurality of types of processing operations can be performed and to provide a picture processor using them. SOLUTION: In a copying machine realizing the plurality of types of copying operations such as full color processing and black/white processing, a processing type display window 172 is provided in an instruction menu display area 170 on a processing performing screen 17 displayed during the performance of the copying operation. The animation of a full color picture is displayed on the processing type display window 172 as a processing type identification picture showing the full color processing being the type of copying which is selected and performed in the copying operation. Thus, an operator can easily recognize the type of the selected copying operation during the performance of the copying operation.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a screen display method, a screen display device, and an image processing device using the same in a user interface for displaying a screen relating to a processing operation.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in an image processing apparatus for forming an image, such as a copying machine or a multifunction machine, a screen relating to a processing operation is provided as a user interface on an operation panel or the like for setting and confirming operation conditions of the processing operation. Is displayed. Then, when necessary operations such as setting of operating conditions are completed and execution of image formation is started, the screen before execution is held as it is on the display device, or image formation is being executed. Is displayed.

Here, a process execution screen displayed during execution of an image formation such as a copying operation is applied to an appropriate image for indicating to the operator that the operation is being executed or to an image formation being executed. Operating conditions, for example, images or characters indicating the set paper size, magnification, paper tray number, and the like are displayed.

[0004]

In recent years, not only image forming with different operating conditions such as paper size and magnification but also plural types of image forming operations with different image forming processing types have been executed. The number of possible image processing devices is increasing. For example, in a color copying machine or a color multifunction machine capable of performing color copying, it is possible to execute any of two types of image formation: full-color processing and black-and-white processing. Further, for example, a monochrome color process for forming an image in a monochrome color other than monochrome can also be executed.

[0005] A processing execution screen displayed during execution of image formation for such a color copying machine simply displays an image indicating that image formation is being executed and an operation, similar to a conventional copying machine. Images or characters that represent the conditions are displayed. For this reason, the operator cannot confirm whether the correct type of image forming operation is selected and executed until the image is actually formed on the sheet and the output image is output. was there.

[0006] Such a problem arises not only in the above-described full-color processing, black-and-white processing, and single-color processing in a color copying machine, but also in a plurality of types of image processing apparatuses such as copying machines, printing machines, facsimile machines, and scanners. This also occurs when performing image processing selected from the image processing operation. The same applies to various processing devices capable of executing a plurality of types of processing operations other than the image processing device.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and has a screen display for facilitating confirmation of a type of a selected processing operation when a plurality of types of processing operations can be executed. It is an object to provide a method, a screen display device, and an image processing device using the same.

[0008]

In order to achieve the above object, a screen display method according to the present invention is applied to a processing apparatus capable of executing a plurality of types of processing operations, and displays a screen relating to the processing operations. A processing type display unit for displaying a processing type identification image representing a type of the selected processing operation when a processing operation selected from a plurality of types of processing operations is being executed. Is displayed on the display means.

The screen display device is a screen display device applied to a processing device capable of executing a plurality of types of processing operations, and a display means for displaying a screen relating to the processing operations;
When a processing operation selected from a plurality of types of processing operations is being executed, a processing execution screen having a processing type display unit on which a processing type identification image representing the type of the selected processing operation is displayed is displayed on a display unit. And control means having a display control unit for displaying.

In the above-described screen display method and screen display apparatus, a processing type display section is provided on the processing execution screen displayed on the display means during the execution of the processing operation, and the processing type display section includes the processing type display section. The identification image indicating the type is displayed. This allows the operator to visually identify and confirm the type of processing operation that is easily selected during the execution of the processing operation.

The processing type identification image displayed on the processing execution screen is preferably an animation representing the type of the selected processing operation. At this time, the identification of the type of the processing operation is particularly facilitated, and the processing type identification image is emphasized in the processing execution screen, so that the operator can identify the type of the processing operation immediately after the display. .

An image processing apparatus according to the present invention is an image processing apparatus capable of executing a plurality of types of image formation,
(1) paper feeding means for feeding paper from paper feeding means;
(2) An image for executing image formation selected from a plurality of types of image formation on a sheet sent from a sheet supply unit based on image data from an image reading unit or image data from an external device. Forming means, and (3) the above-mentioned screen display device for displaying, on the display means, a processing execution screen having a processing type display section on which a processing type identification image indicating a selected type of image formation is displayed. It is characterized by.

With such a configuration, for example, a plurality of types of image formation in a color copying machine can be easily identified during the execution of the image forming operation. As the image processing device, for example, the above-described copier or printer,
Alternatively, there is a multifunction peripheral having these functions.

The plurality of types of image formation include at least two types of full-color processing, black-and-white processing, and single-color processing, and the display means used in the screen display device can display a color image. In addition to being a display device, the processing type identification images representing the full-color processing, the black-and-white processing, and the single-color processing are a full-color image, a black-and-white image, and a single-color image, respectively.

By using a display device capable of color display and using a full-color image, a monochrome image, and a single-color image as animations corresponding to the type of processing selected as processing type identification images,
Which of these image forming types is selected can be particularly easily identified. For the full-color image, the black-and-white image, and the single-color image, the entire processing type identification image does not have to be the image, and the above-described images are included in a predetermined part used for the type identification. It may be applied.

Further, it is characterized in that the execution of the selected image formation can be stopped during execution. At this time, the operator identifies the type of image formation being performed by the processing type identification image, and if it is confirmed that an incorrect type of image formation is being performed, immediately executes the processing operation. Can be stopped.

Further, the above-described screen display method and screen display apparatus can be similarly applied to various processing apparatuses capable of performing a plurality of types of processing operations in addition to the image processing apparatus.

[0018]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Preferred embodiments of a screen display method, a screen display apparatus, and an image processing apparatus using the same according to the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings. In the description of the drawings, the same elements will be denoted by the same reference symbols, without redundant description. Also, the dimensional ratios in the drawings do not always match those described.

Here, in a copying machine or the like, a setting screen for operating a setting menu by an operator and setting operating conditions such as a type of processing to be executed and a paper size is usually displayed on a display device. are doing. In this case, the screen display method and the screen display device are configured as a menu operation method and a menu operation device having a menu operation function in addition to the screen display function. Hereinafter, a screen display method and a screen display device will be described using the menu operation method and the menu operation device.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing a configuration of a menu operation device which is an embodiment of a screen display device according to the present invention. This menu operation device (screen display device) uses a hierarchical menu having a hierarchical structure including a plurality of setting menus. The menu operating device (screen display device) sequentially operates the setting menus of each hierarchy according to the hierarchical structure. Then, the parameters for the setting items necessary for executing the predetermined processing operation are sequentially set. The present apparatus refers to a display device 1 that displays a setting screen for operating a setting menu, a display screen such as a screen related to a processing operation, and a display content such as a displayed setting screen to operate or operate the setting menu. Input device 3 for giving other operation instructions
And a menu operation control unit (screen display control unit) 40 that controls menu operations, screen display, and the like using them.

As the display device 1, for example, a liquid crystal display or a CRT display is used, and a setting screen or the like is displayed on a display surface 10 thereof. On the other hand, the input device 3
In FIG. 1, a touch panel 3a installed so as to correspond to the display surface 10 of the display device 1 is used. Also,
As the input device 3, in addition to the touch panel 3a, a pointing device such as a mouse, a keyboard including a numeric keypad and various instruction buttons, or an operation panel can be used.

The menu operation control unit 40 sequentially creates a setting screen or other display screens (such as a processing start screen, a processing execution screen, and a processing end screen, which will be described later), and displays them on the display surface 10 of the display device 1. The display controller 41 includes a display controller 41 and a setting controller 42 for setting parameters based on parameter values input from the touch panel 3a as the input device 3 and other operation instruction information.

The display control section 41 refers to the menu data stored in the menu data storage section 46 and creates a setting screen corresponding to each setting menu, a screen relating to a processing operation, and the like. The menu data includes information such as a setting item name (parameter name) of each setting menu, a hierarchical structure of the menu, a configuration method of each screen, character data and image data necessary for creating a setting screen and the like.

The setting control section 42 refers to the parameter data stored in the parameter data storage section 47 as necessary, and sets parameters for setting items in each setting menu. Further, based on the result of the parameter setting, the display control unit 41 may be instructed about a setting menu to be operated next and a setting screen to be displayed. The parameter data includes information such as parameter initial values or default value data.
If the setting can be made based only on the values of the parameters input from the touch panel 3a (input device 3), these parameter data need not necessarily be referred to.

When the setting of the parameters for all the setting items required for executing the processing operation is completed, an instruction for the processing operation is given to the processing device, for example, an instruction for designating the operation parameter or for starting the execution of the processing operation. And the like are performed via the processing operation instruction unit 43. This menu operation device can be attached to a processing device that performs a processing operation targeted for parameter setting by a hierarchical menu, or can be installed inside as a part of the processing device. .

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration used for the menu operation device shown in FIG. The hardware control function of each unit of the menu operation device and the software function of control of menu display and operation by the menu operation control unit 40 are executed by the CPU.
4 is performed. The CPU 4 has a ROM that stores software programs and the like necessary for the operation of the apparatus.
4a is connected to a RAM 4b composed of a DRAM or the like and temporarily storing data during execution of a program.

Then, these CPU 4, ROM 4a,
A display device 1 for displaying each screen such as a setting screen and an input device 3 such as a touch panel 3a for inputting parameter values according to a setting menu displayed on the setting screen are connected to the RAM 4b. And a menu operation device. As the menu data storage unit 46 storing menu data and the parameter data storage unit 47 storing parameter data, the external storage device 4c including one or more storage devices such as a hard disk is used. ing.

The menu operation method (screen display method) in the menu operation device (screen display device) shown in FIG. 1 includes a hierarchical menu, a setting menu included therein,
A description will be given using a specific embodiment, such as a setting screen created and displayed corresponding to the setting menu and each screen related to the processing operation. As an embodiment, a case will be described in which the above-described menu operation device is applied to an image processing device, particularly to a copier having a copy function or a multifunction machine having both a copy function and another function.

First, the configuration of a copying machine (or multifunction machine) as an example of an image processing apparatus will be schematically described. FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram showing a basic configuration of a copying machine to which the menu operation method and the menu operation device of the embodiment are applied.

The copying machine CM shown in FIG.
An automatic document feeder 56 provided so as to freely open and close a copy glass 54 provided on the upper surface of the main body 52. The copy glass 54, the automatic document feeder 56, and a document reading unit 58 are provided. Constitutes an image reading unit (image reading means) 50 for reading an image.

Inside the main body 52, an automatic document feeder 5
6, the moving original conveyed onto the copy glass 54 by
Alternatively, open the automatic document feeder 56 and open the copy glass 54.
A document reading unit 58 that reads an image of a fixed document placed thereon and converts the image into image data, and an image that forms a visible image on a recording sheet (recording material) based on the image data received from the image reading unit 50 A forming unit (image forming unit) 60 and a sheet feeding unit (sheet feeding unit) 62 that supplies recording paper to the image forming unit 60 are provided.

The image forming section 60 has a photosensitive drum 64 (image carrier) which rotates in the direction A (clockwise) in FIG.
And the transfer roll 65 rotating in the B direction (counterclockwise direction)
Are provided so as to approach each other at the transfer position P.

Around the photosensitive drum 64, a charging device 66 for uniformly charging the photosensitive drum 64 along a rotation direction thereof, and a laser beam or the like is driven based on image data received from the image reading section 50. Then, a writing device 68 for forming an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 64, the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 64 is visualized with four color toners of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, Four developing devices 70 for forming a developed image are provided, and a cleaning device 72 for removing toner remaining on the photosensitive drum 64 after the transfer is provided across the transfer position P.

In the present embodiment, the four developing devices 70 are provided as described above, so that the copying machine CM has a color copy function and can execute a plurality of types of image formation. The image processing device is configured to be capable of The number of developing devices 70 used in image formation on recording paper is appropriately selected based on the type of image formation (copy) such as full-color, black-and-white, and single-color, depending on the number of toners used.

Inside the transfer roll 65 and at the transfer position P
At a position facing the photoconductor drum 64, the developed image formed by the toner formed on the surface of the photoconductor drum 64 is transferred to a recording sheet supplied from the paper supply unit 62 and conveyed between the photoconductor drum 64 and the transfer roll 65. A transfer machine 74 for transferring is provided.

The image forming section 60 is provided with an image forming control section 75. The image forming control section 75 controls the charging device 66, the writing device 68, and the developing device 70 so that the photosensitive drum is controlled. The amount of toner adhering to the surface of the H.64 is controlled. Further, the image forming section 60 includes a fixing device 76 for fixing the image transferred to the recording paper by the transfer device 74 to the paper.

A paper supply unit 62 for supplying paper to the image forming unit 60 is provided at a lower portion of the main body 52, and includes three paper supply trays 78, 80, and 82 serving as paper supply means, A paper feed mechanism 84 is provided for each of the trays 78, 80, and 82. Each paper tray 7
Reference numerals 8, 80, and 82 denote recording papers on which images are to be formed, which are stacked and accommodated for each paper size or type, and are detachably attached to the main body 52. Then, the recording paper is sent out from one of these paper feed trays.

The paper feed mechanism 84 includes paper feed trays 78, 80,
A pickup roller 86 that abuts on the uppermost recording sheet in 82 and sequentially sends out the sheet, and receives the sheet sent out by the pickup roller 86 and receives the sheet.
The feed roller 88 and the retard roller 90 are a pair of rollers for feeding a sheet while preventing double feed toward zero. The pickup roller 86 and the feed roller 88 are rotated by the drive of a motor (not shown), and a retard roller 90 that forms a pair with the feed roller 88.
Rotates with the rotation of the feed roller 88.

A recording paper transport path 94 is formed by several sets of guide rollers 92 from each of the paper feed trays 78, 80, and 82 to the image forming section 60. As a result, the recording paper sent from each of the paper feed trays 78, 80, and 82 is transferred along the recording paper transport path 94 to the transfer positions P,
After being sequentially conveyed to the fixing device 76 to form an image, a discharge roller 96 provided downstream of the fixing device 76 is provided.
Is discharged to the outside through

Here, regarding the image formation in the image forming section 60, when copying from an original as described above, the image is formed based on the image data from the image reading section 50. When the image processing apparatus is a multifunction peripheral, the image forming unit 60 can store image data from an external device such as a personal computer connected to the image processing apparatus in addition to image data from the image reading unit 50. Similarly, an image is formed on a recording sheet by using image data read from a recording medium such as a floppy (registered trademark) disk.

Next, an embodiment of a menu operation method when the menu operation device shown in FIG. 1 is applied to the copying machine or the multifunction machine shown in FIG. 3 will be described. Although the menu operating device can be installed at a position outside the copying machine, it is preferable that the menu operating device be installed integrally inside the copying machine (not shown in FIG. 3). In this case, for example, the CPU 4, the ROM 4a, the RAM 4b, and the external storage device 4c that constitute the menu operation control unit 40 and the like
Are installed at predetermined positions inside the copying machine as a menu operation control device (screen display control device), and the display device 1 and the input device 3 such as the touch panel 3a are installed as a part of the operation panel of the copying machine. Configuration is possible.

Here, in the following description of each screen, corresponding to the fact that the touch panel 3a is installed on the display surface 10 of the display device 1, each display portion or display area in the screen is described. Those that may function as an input unit used for selection of a setting menu, input of parameters, and the like are denoted as “buttons” to distinguish them from those merely displaying information.

The hierarchical menu in this embodiment includes a plurality of types of copying operations (image forming operations) which are predetermined processing operations.
Is used to set the parameters of a plurality of setting items relating to the processing type and the operating conditions. (1) Copy type setting menu, (2) Paper size setting menu, (3) Magnification setting menu, (4) Number of copies The menu includes five setting menus: a setting menu and (5) other setting menus.

These setting menus constitute a hierarchical menu in which parameters are sequentially set for each setting item according to the hierarchical structure in the order (1) to (5) described above. Of these, (1) is the processing type, (2)-
(5) is a setting menu for setting operating conditions. The hierarchical menu does not have a tree structure in which the operation flow of the setting menu branches.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration of a copy type setting screen 11 which is a first setting screen in the present embodiment. The type setting screen 11 includes a setting menu display area 110 located on the right side of the screen to display a copy type setting menu, and a hierarchical structure of a hierarchical menu including the above five setting menus located on the left side of the screen. And a hierarchical menu display area 115 for displaying In addition, the upper left of the screen (hierarchical menu display area 11)
5), a setting redo button 119 for clearing the parameter values set for the setting items in each setting menu and redoing the settings is arranged.

In the setting menu display area 110, a type setting menu operated on the type setting screen 11 is displayed. An instruction content display window 111 is provided in the upper part of the setting menu display area 110, and the "copy type" which is a setting item name (parameter name) in the setting menu is displayed. Has been instructed. Below the instruction content display window 111, six parameter input buttons 112a to 112f for displaying parameter value options that can be set for this setting item and for inputting parameters using the touch panel 3a are arranged. ing.

On the other hand, the hierarchical menu display area 115 includes the type setting menu displayed in the setting menu display area 110 on the type setting screen 11.
With respect to each setting menu of one hierarchy, five menu item buttons 116 ₁ to 116 ₁ corresponding to those setting menus
16 ₅ are listed.

In the menu item buttons 116 _{1 to} 116 ₅ , setting item names “copy type”, “paper size”, “paper size”, "Magnification", "Copies",
"Other settings" is displayed. Moreover, five of the menu item button 116 _{1-116 5} are arranged ordered downward in this order from the upper side of the screen.

At this time, the hierarchical menu display area 115
Menu button 116 displayed at the top of the menu
_The setting menu corresponding to ₁ is the topmost type setting menu (setting menu operated first) in the hierarchical structure of the hierarchical menu, and each setting menu lower from here (setting menu operated later) ) menu item button 116 _{2-116 5} corresponding to is a list display format that is displayed in a hierarchical order.

[0050] Among the menu item button 116 _{1-116 5,} first (top) "Copy Type" located to the menu item button 116 ₁ is displayed on the setting menu display area 110 in the setting screen 11 , Is a menu item corresponding to the type setting menu that is currently being operated (during parameter setting). For this reason, the menu item button 116 ₁ is displayed with its right end connected to the setting menu display area 110 adjacent to the right side in a tag-like display format.

In the menu item button 116 ₁ being set, a parameter display window 117 ₁ for displaying a parameter value selected as a copy type in the type setting menu under the setting item name “copy type”. Is provided. However, At the time of operating this type setting screen 11, since the parameter value indicating the type of copy is not set, the parameter display window 117 ₁ not parameter values are displayed, thereby, set the current parameter Indicates that it is inside.

The menu item button 116 being set
_Second to fifth menu item buttons 116 _{2 to} 11 other than ₁
Reference numeral ₆₅ denotes a menu item corresponding to a setting menu that has not been operated up to this point and whose parameters have not been set.
Therefore, these unset menu item buttons 116
_{2-116 5,} as shown by dotted lines in FIG. 4, it is displayed by different display formats and menu item button 116 ₁ being set. Further, in these menu item button 116 _{2-116 5,} parameter display window is not provided.

The type setting screen 11 having such a configuration
In the (first setting screen), settable parameter values “full color”, “black and white”, “single color”, “photocopy”, “photocopy” for the setting item “copy type” of the type setting menu , And "Poster" are respectively displayed on the parameter input buttons 112a to 112f.
Is pressed on the touch panel 3a, for example, when the parameter input button 112a for selecting "full color" is pressed on the touch panel 3a, the parameter value corresponding to the pressed parameter input button is set to "copy" in the setting control unit 42 of the menu operation control unit 40. Is set as a parameter of “type”. Then, a second setting screen is created in the display control unit 41, and the screen displayed on the display device 1 shifts to the second setting screen.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the configuration of the paper size setting screen 12, which is the second setting screen in this embodiment.
Like the type setting screen 11, the size setting screen 12 has a setting menu display area 120 located on the right side of the screen and displaying a paper size setting menu, and a hierarchical level located on the left side of the screen and displaying a hierarchical menu. And a pattern menu display area 125. A redo setting button 129 is arranged at the upper left of the screen.

In the setting menu display area 120, a size setting menu operated on the size setting screen 12 is displayed. The configuration in the setting menu display area 120 is the same as the setting menu display area 11 in the type setting screen 11.
It is almost the same as 0, the setting item name "paper size" is displayed in the instruction content display window 121, and the selection of the parameter value is instructed. Also, below the six parameter input buttons 122a to 122a for inputting parameters.
22f is arranged.

On the other hand, in the hierarchical menu display area 125,
Means five menu item buttons 126 ₁~ 126_FiveIs a list
The second "Paper Size" menu is displayed
Item button 126_TwoIndicates the menu item button being set
Then, it is connected to the setting menu display area 120 in the form of a tag.
Is displayed. Also, the third to fifth lower menus
Item button 126_Three~ 126_FiveIndicates an unset menu item
It is displayed as a button.

[0057] Also, the first "type of copy" menu item button ₁₂₆₁ is a manipulated in the setting screen 11 of the upper, a menu item parameters corresponding to the setting menu of preset. Accordingly, the menu item button 126 ₁ of the preset is displayed by the menu item button 126 ₂ similar display format being set. However, this already set menu item button 126 ₁
Unlike is, a menu item button 126 ₂ being set,
It is displayed as a normal button without being connected to the setting menu display area 120.

The menu item button 126 being set
In _2, the parameter is not the parameter value is displayed on the parameter display window 127 ₂ in order to be unset. On the other hand, the preset menu item button 126
_{In 1} , the parameter value “full color” set in the type setting menu is displayed in the parameter display window 127 ₁ .

The size setting screen 1 having such a configuration
2 (second setting screen), the settable parameter values “A4”, “A3”, “B4”, “B5”, “Government postcard” for the setting item “paper size” of the size setting menu, One of the parameter input buttons 122a to 122f respectively displaying "thick paper", for example, "A
When the parameter input button 122a for selecting "4" is pressed, the parameter value corresponding to the pressed parameter input button is set as the parameter of "paper size". Then, a third setting screen is created, and the displayed screen shifts to the third setting screen.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of the magnification setting screen 13 which is the third setting screen in this embodiment. Similar to the setting screens 11 and 12, the magnification setting screen 13 includes a setting menu display area 130 located on the right side of the screen to display a magnification setting menu, and a hierarchy displayed on the left side of the screen to display a hierarchical menu. And a pattern menu display area 135. In addition, a redo setting button 139 is arranged at the upper left of the screen.

In the setting menu display area 130, a magnification setting menu operated on the magnification setting screen 13 is displayed. The setting item name “magnification” is displayed in the upper instruction content display window 131, and an instruction to select a parameter value is given. Below the five buttons, five parameter input buttons 132a to 132a for inputting parameters are provided.
32e are arranged.

On the other hand, in the hierarchical menu display area 135,
Means five menu item buttons 136 ₁~ 136_FiveIs a list
Displayed, and the third “magnification” menu item button
Tan 136_ThreeIs the menu item button that is being set.
Connected and displayed in the form of a tag in the setting menu display area 130
Have been. In addition, the fourth and fifth lower menu item buttons
Tan 136_Four, 136_FiveIs an unset menu item button
Is displayed as Also, the first and second top menu
Menu item button 136₁, 136_TwoIs a preset menu
Displayed as item buttons, each parameter display
Window 137₁, 137_TwoIs set in each setting menu.
The displayed parameter values “full color” and “A4” are displayed.
Have been.

A magnification setting screen 13 having such a configuration
On the (third setting screen), the parameter value “10” that can be set for the setting item “magnification” in the magnification setting menu
0% (actual size) "," Reduced "," Enlarged "," Zoom ",
One of the parameter input buttons 132a to 132e displaying "slightly smaller", for example, "100
When the parameter input button 132a for selecting “%” is pressed, the parameter value corresponding to the pressed parameter input button is set as a parameter of “magnification”. Then, a fourth setting screen is created, and the displayed screen shifts to the fourth setting screen.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the configuration of the copy number setting screen 14 which is the fourth setting screen in this embodiment. Like the setting screens 11 to 13, the copy number setting screen 14 has a setting menu display area 140 located on the right side of the screen and displaying a copy number setting menu, and a hierarchy located on the left side of the screen and displaying a hierarchical menu. And a pattern menu display area 145. A redo setting button 149 is arranged at the upper left of the screen.

In the setting menu display area 140, a copy number setting menu operated on the copy number setting screen 14 is displayed. In the upper instruction content display window 141, a setting item name “number of copies” is displayed, and an instruction to select a parameter value is issued. In addition, a parameter input button 142 is arranged below it.

The parameter input button 142 is always selected on the copy number setting screen 14, and the copy number input section 143 for allowing the operator to input the number of copies as the parameter value to be set is provided by the parameter input button 142.
Is connected to the right end and is displayed on the right. A number input section 143 includes a numeric keypad 143a for inputting the number of copies, and a number display window 14 for displaying the input number of copies.
3b, and a confirmation button 144 for confirming and confirming the input copy value are arranged.

On the other hand, in the hierarchical menu display area 145,
Means five menu item buttons 146 ₁~ 146_FiveIs a list
Displayed, and the fourth “Copies” menu item button
Tan 146_FourIs the menu item button that is being set.
Connected and displayed as a tag in the setting menu display area 140
Have been. Also, the fifth lower menu item button
146_FiveIs displayed as an unconfigured menu item button.
Have been. Also, the first to third upper menu item buttons
146₁~ 146_ThreeIs the default menu item button
And each parameter display window 147 is displayed.₁~
147_ThreeIs the parameter set in each setting menu.
Meter values "full color", "A4", "100%" are displayed
It is shown.

The copy number setting screen 14 having the above configuration
In the (fourth setting screen), for the setting item “number of copies” of the number of copies setting menu, the number of copies input section 143 connected to the parameter input button 142 and displayed.
A set value which is a value of a parameter to be set by the ten key unit 143a, for example, 10 sets is input. When the confirmation button 144 is pressed after the copy number is confirmed by the display in the copy number display window 143b, the input parameter value is set as the parameter of “copy number”.

With the above setting screens 11 to 14,
The four hierarchical setting menus of (1) copy type setting menu, (2) paper size setting menu, (3) magnification setting menu, and (4) number of copies setting menu are sequentially operated in accordance with the hierarchical structure of the hierarchical menu. Then, the setting of the parameters for the processing type and the operating conditions required for executing the copying operation is completed. Then, a processing start screen is created, and the displayed screen shifts to a processing start screen.

(5) For the other setting menus, the setting items included in the setting menu are not essential, and in the example of the operation procedure described here,
The menu operation and parameter setting are omitted. The operation of the setting menu will be described later.

FIG. 8 shows a processing start screen 1 in this embodiment.
6 is a diagram showing a configuration of FIG. The processing start screen 16 has a similar configuration to the setting screens 11 to 14, and is located on the right side of the screen to display an instruction menu display area 160 for displaying an instruction menu for starting execution of a copying operation. And a hierarchical menu display area 165 for displaying a hierarchical menu. In addition, a redo setting button 169 is arranged at the upper left of the screen.

The instruction menu display area 160 displays a processing start instruction menu operated on the processing start screen 16. An instruction content relating to this instruction menu is displayed in an instruction content display window 161 at the top. Instructions such as how to place a document are additionally displayed below the display. In addition, a copy start button 164 for instructing the start of a copy operation (copy operation) by a processing operation of the type selected on the type setting screen 11 is arranged at a lower portion.

On the other hand, in the hierarchical menu display area 165,
Means five menu item buttons 166 ₁~ 166_FiveIs a list
Is displayed. Of these, the fifth menu at the bottom
Item button 166_FiveIn the example shown in FIG.
Parameter settings for that setting item as
Are not displayed, they are displayed as unset menu item buttons.
It is shown. Also, the first to fourth menu item buttons
166₁~ 166_FourIs the default menu item button
The respective parameter display windows 167 ₁~ 1
67_FourShows the parameters set in each setting menu.
The processing value "full color" and the operating conditions
"A4", "100%", "10 copies" are displayed
You.

The processing start screen 16 having such a configuration
, The parameter display window 16 of each menu item button 166 _{1 to} 166 ₄ in the hierarchical menu display area 165
7 _1-167 after it is confirmed that the parameter values displayed in ₄ is all set to a desired value, the copy start button 164 is pressed, the process type is specified from the parameter values set The execution of the copying operation is started according to the operating conditions. Then, a process execution screen is created, and the displayed screen shifts to a process execution screen.

FIG. 9 shows a processing execution screen 1 in this embodiment.
7 is a diagram showing a configuration of FIG. The processing execution screen 17 is a screen displayed during the execution of the copying operation after the setting of each parameter on the setting screens 11 to 14 and the confirmation of the parameter values on the processing start screen 16 are completed. Therefore, the process execution screen 17 is not provided with a hierarchical menu display area for displaying the hierarchical structure of the setting menu and the parameter values that have been set, and the instruction menu display area 1
70 and an instruction content display window 171 thereabove are arranged in the screen.

The instruction menu display area 170 has a processing type display window 172 for displaying the type of copy selected and executed in the copying operation being executed by an image such as an animation, and a number of the set number of copies. Processing status display window 17 for displaying whether or not the eye copying operation is being performed
3 are provided. On the right side of the processing type display window 172, a copy stop button 174 for forcibly stopping the execution of the copying operation halfway is displayed. FIG.
9 shows the processing execution screen 17 in a state where the copy operation of the sixth copy is being executed for the set number of copies of 10 copies.

The execution of the copying operation is continued while the processing execution screen 17 is displayed, and when all the specified copying operations are completed, the entire copying operation based on the parameter values set by the hierarchical menu is completed. I do. Then, a processing end screen is created, and the displayed screen shifts to a processing end screen.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of the processing end screen 18 in this embodiment. As with the processing execution screen 17, the processing end screen 18 includes an instruction menu display area 180 and an instruction content display window 181 above the instruction menu display area 180.

The instruction menu display area 180 is provided with an end instruction display window 182 for displaying the end of the copying operation or the instruction after the end of the operation. Also,
On the right side of the end instruction display window 182, a copy button 18 for continuously performing a copy operation with the same parameter setting is displayed.
3 and a confirmation button 1 for confirming the end of the copying operation
84 are arranged.

When the confirmation button 184 is pressed on the processing end screen 18, all the copying operations are ended, and the parameter values set for each setting item are cleared. Then, in order to be able to start setting the parameters for the next copy operation, the displayed screen shifts to the copy type setting screen 11, which is the first setting screen, again.
It is in a state of waiting for input by the operator. The above is the operation procedure of the basic menu operation method in the menu operation device and the image processing device in the present embodiment.

Here, the display of the type of copy on the processing execution screen will be described.

In the process execution screen 17 in this embodiment, as described above, the instruction menu display area 170
A processing type display window (processing type display unit) 172 is provided therein (see FIG. 9). As shown in the copying machine CM in FIG. 3 and the type setting screen 11 in FIG. 4, the copying machine according to the present embodiment can perform a plurality of types of image forming operations such as full-color processing, monochrome processing, and single-color processing. Device. On the other hand, a process type display window 172 provided on the process execution screen 17 displays a process type identification image representing the type of image formation selected from the above-described plurality of types of image formation.

That is, when the start of the copy operation is instructed on the processing start screen 16, the menu operation control unit (image display control unit) 40
The display device 1 displays a process execution screen 17 having a process type display window 172 on which a process type identification image corresponding to the copy type (process type) set by the type setting menu of the type setting screen 11 is displayed. In FIG.
In response to the type of copy in the copying operation being executed being full-color processing, an animation in which four colors of ink are supplied to a sheet is displayed as a full-color image. For this reason, a display device capable of displaying a color image is used as the display device 1.

In the processing execution screen 17,
Copy stop button 174 for stopping the copy operation being executed
Is provided, whereby the execution of the copying operation can be stopped halfway.

In the screen display method, screen display device (menu operation method, menu operation device), and image processing device according to the above-described embodiments and examples, the processing execution screen 17 displayed during the execution of the copying operation includes A processing type display window 172 for displaying a processing type identification image is provided. This allows the operator to easily visually check the type of copy, which is the type of image formation selected and executed in the copying operation, during execution without waiting for the output image output after the image formation is completed. It is possible to do.

Further, by using an animation as the processing type identification image as in the above-described embodiment, the processing type identification image is emphasized to the operator on the processing execution screen 17. Therefore, the operator can easily confirm the type of the copying operation, and the type of the copying operation is immediately identified by the operator after the process execution screen 17 is displayed.

Further, in accordance with the fact that the type of the selected copying operation is the full-color processing, the animation using the full-color image is used. As a result, in the color copying machine, the processing type identification image can easily identify that the full color processing is selected. Similarly,
If the selected copy type is black-and-white processing, as shown in FIG. 11, an animation of a black-and-white image in which only one color ink of black is supplied to the paper is displayed in the processing type display window 172 as a processing type identification image. Preferably, it is displayed. If the selected copy type is a single color process, it is preferable to display an animation of a single color image in which only the corresponding single color (for example, red) ink is supplied to the sheet.

In the present embodiment, the execution of the copying operation can be forcibly interrupted halfway by the copy cancel button 174 provided on the processing execution screen 17. At this time, the operator operates the processing type display window 17.
By identifying the type of copy operation being executed by the animation displayed in 2 and confirming that the type of copy selected and being executed is incorrect, the copy stop button 174 is pressed, The execution of the copying operation can be immediately stopped. Therefore, it is possible to perform recovery processing as soon as possible when an erroneous copying operation is performed.

Here, in the menu operation method, the menu operation device, and the image processing device according to the above-described embodiments and examples, a plurality of menu item buttons corresponding to the setting menus of each layer are displayed in the hierarchical menu display area. The list is displayed according to the hierarchical structure. by this,
The operator can obtain information about the hierarchical structure, such as the number of layers in the hierarchical menu, the number of setting menus, the operation procedure, and the position of the setting menu currently being set.

Also, menu item buttons that have been set, that are being set, and have not been set are displayed so as to be distinguishable in different display formats. As a result, the operation status of each setting menu can be confirmed from the menu item button list display. In addition, by providing a parameter display window on the preset menu item button, it is possible to check the preset parameter values without returning to the setting screen.

[0091] Of the five setting menus, (5)
The other setting menus are setting menus (hereinafter, referred to as option setting menus) in which parameter settings are not necessarily required to execute a copying operation. For this reason, this setting menu is the lowest setting menu, does not have a setting screen corresponding to each of the setting screens 11 to 14 for other setting menus, and can operate the copy operation without operating this setting menu. It is possible to start execution.

The other setting menus include a plurality of option setting menus. As shown in FIG. 7, four option setting buttons 152a are provided in a setting menu display area 140 of the copy number setting screen 14 in order to operate the option setting menus and perform parameter option setting as needed. To 152d. In this embodiment, four setting items of “center alignment”, “center erase (book)”, “document type”, and “density” are available as option setting items in which parameter options can be set in other setting menus. Is provided.

These option setting items can be selected by the option setting buttons 152a to 152d, respectively. Option setting button 15
When any one of 2a to 152d is pressed, an option setting menu for setting parameters of option setting items corresponding to the pressed option setting button is displayed on the option setting screen.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a configuration of a document type option setting screen 21 for operating a “document type” option setting menu as an example of the option setting screen in the present embodiment. When the option setting button 152c for selecting the option setting item “document type” on the copy number setting screen 14 is pressed, the screen displayed shifts to the option setting screen 21. The option setting screen 21 includes an option setting menu display area 210 and an instruction content display window 21 disposed thereabove.
1 is displayed.

An option setting menu display area 210 displays a document type option setting menu to be set on the option setting screen 21, and includes four parameter input buttons 21 for inputting parameters.
2a to 212d are arranged. A setting cancel button 213 for canceling the option setting and a confirmation button 214 for confirming and confirming the input parameter value are displayed at the lower right.

In FIG. 12, parameter values “text / photo”, “text”, “photo” and “map” which can be set for the setting item “document type” in the document type option setting menu are shown. , "Photograph" is pressed. The selected parameter input button has a different display format, such as the color of the button, from the one before the selection (shown by oblique lines in the figure), indicating that it is selected. When the confirmation button 214 is pressed in this state, the “document type” is determined to be “photograph”, options are set as parameters, and the screen returns to the copy number setting screen 14 again.

As described above, when the parameters are set in the option setting menu included in the other setting menus, as shown in FIG.
In the setting menu display area 140, the option setting button 152c is displayed in a selected state (shown by oblique lines). In the hierarchical menu display area 145, a fifth menu item button 146 ₅ corresponding to another setting menu is displayed as a preset menu item button, and the parameter display window 14 is displayed.
7 _5, the values of the parameters that have been set in type option setting menu of the original "photograph" is displayed.

Further, a subsequent processing start screen 16 (FIG. 8)
Similarly, the menu item button 166 ₅ is displayed as a preset menu item button,
The parameter value “photo” set as an option is displayed in the parameter display window.

The option setting screen as shown in FIG. 12 is similarly created for the option setting items “center alignment”, “center erase (book)”, and “density” other than “document type”. You. Then, option setting buttons 152a, 152b, 152 for selecting those setting items
When d is pressed, option setting screens corresponding to the respective option setting menus are displayed, and option setting of parameters is performed.

[0101] In this case, the parameter display window 147 to be displayed on the menu item button 146 ₅ of the number of copies setting screen 14
₅ is 4 corresponding to the above 4 optional setting items.
It is configured to be able to display parameter values for which option settings have been made. This configuration is the same for the fifth “other setting” menu item button on the other setting screen.

On the option setting screen 21,
When the cancel setting button 213 at the bottom of the option setting menu display area 210 is pressed, the screen returns to the copy number setting screen 14 shown in FIG. 7 in a state where the parameter of the document type is not set. This is the same for the other option setting screens. Further, in each option setting screen, a hierarchical menu display area as in the setting screens 11 to 14 is not provided, but if necessary,
A configuration in which a hierarchical menu is displayed as in the case of the normal setting screen may be adopted.

Further, in each of the setting menus operated on the setting screens 11 to 14, some of the parameter input buttons displayed in the setting menu display area have submenus for setting parameters in detail. have. The type setting menu of the type setting screen 11 (FIG. 4) includes a “single color” input button 112 c (see the sub menu display section 114 c shown in FIG. 14) and a “photo additional”. There are an input button 112d (see the sub-menu display section 114d shown in FIG. 15), a “photocopy” input button 112e, and a “poster” input button 112f.

The size setting menu on the size setting screen 12 (FIG. 5) includes a "government postcard" input button 122e and a "cardboard" input button 122f (see the submenu display section 124f shown in FIG. 16). Also,
In the magnification setting menu of the magnification setting screen 13 (FIG. 6), there are a “reduction” input button 132b, an “enlargement” input button 132c (see the submenu display section 134c shown in FIG. 17), and a “zoom” input button 132d. .

Each of the sub-menus is for making detailed setting of parameters for essential setting items in each setting menu, and is different from an option setting menu for non-essential option setting items. Therefore, as shown in the examples of FIGS. 14 to 17, all of these sub-menus maintain the display contents in the other screen areas on the setting screens 11 to 13 while maintaining the display contents in the setting menu display areas 110, 120, and 130. Are displayed in connection with the corresponding parameter input buttons on the right side of. And
Detailed parameter values are input by a parameter input button or the like further displayed in each submenu display section. For example, in the sub-menu display section 124f shown in FIG. 16, an example is shown in which the "A4" input button is pressed and selected as the parameter value of the cardboard size and is waiting for confirmation.

Operation procedures other than the above-described operation procedures in the menu operation method of this embodiment will be further described.

First, the setting menu selection function (setting screen moving function) of the menu item buttons displayed in the hierarchical menu display area will be described.

[0107] Each of the five setting menus included in the hierarchical menu has a hierarchical structure of menus. If the parameter setting in the setting menu higher than the setting menu is not completed, the menu operation is performed. You can't do that. On the other hand, for a setting menu that has already been operated and parameters have already been set, when operating a lower-level setting menu, the already set setting menu must be re-edited, such as changing or confirming the set parameter values. May need to be manipulated.

On the other hand, the menu operation device and the image processing device according to the present embodiment refer to the menu item buttons listed in the hierarchical menu display area for the setting menu whose parameters have already been set. It is possible to directly return to the already-set setting screen from the setting screen currently being set which is displayed at that time.

That is, except for the setting screen 11 corresponding to the highest setting menu in the hierarchical menu, the other setting screens 12 to 14 have higher setting menus than the setting menu operated on the setting screen. (Setting screen)
Are displayed as preset menu item buttons in the respective hierarchical menu display areas. By allowing these already set menu item buttons to function as a setting menu selection button for selecting and returning to the setting menu and the setting screen, it is possible to directly return to the setting screen corresponding to the setting menu to be re-operated as described above. Becomes possible.

As the menu item buttons that can function as the setting menu selection buttons,
In sizing screen 12 (FIG. 5), the menu item button 126 ₁ is, in the magnification setting screen 13 (FIG. 6), the menu item buttons 136 _1, 136 _2, also the number of copies setting screen 14 (FIG. 7) Has menu item buttons 146 _{1 to} 146 ₃ .

For example, when the menu item button 146 ₁ corresponding to the copy type setting menu is pressed on the copy number setting screen 14 in the state shown in FIG. 7, parameters other than the selected “copy type” setting menu are displayed. Returns to the type setting screen 11 while the parameter values in the “paper size” and “magnification” setting menus already set are retained.

FIG. 18 shows the state of the type setting screen 11 returned at this time. Here, a menu item button 116 corresponding to the “number of copies” setting menu being operated before returning.
_The item No. 4 is displayed as an unset menu item button because the screen returns from the copy setting screen 14 to the type setting screen 11 with the parameters not set.

The menu item button 116 ₁ is
The (re) set menu item button is displayed in the setting menu display area 110 in a tag-like manner as the menu item button being set in the case of the normal type setting screen 11 shown in FIG. Here, the parameter value “full color” set before returning is cleared to reset the parameter, and the parameter display window 11
7 ₁ is in an unset state.

[0114] Further, in FIG. 4, the menu item button 116 _{2-116 5,} both parameters lower than menu item button 116 ₁ being set is displayed as a menu item button unset. On the contrary,
In FIG. 18, the lower menu item button 116 ₂
Of -116 _5, "Paper Size" menu item button 116 ₂ and "magnification" menu item button 116 ₃ parameter corresponds to setting menu has been a preset before returning. Therefore, these menu item button 116 _2, 116 ₃ together are displayed as a menu item button preset, the parameter display window 117 _2,
In 117 _3, the parameter values that are set "A4",
“100%” is displayed.

On the type setting screen 11, when the parameter input button 112b for selecting a parameter value "black and white" different from the parameter value "full color" set before the parameter change is pressed, the "black and white" is changed to the type. It is reset as a parameter in the setting menu. Then, the displayed screen automatically returns to the number-of-copies setting screen 14 previously set before returning to this screen. At this time, the copy number setting screen 14 becomes as shown in FIG. 19, and the “copy type” menu item button 146
_The parameter value displayed in the parameter display window 147 ₁ in ₁ is changed from “full color” to “black and white” (FIG. 7).
reference).

As described above, by adding the setting menu selection function to the already set menu item buttons, when the setting menu is to be re-operated, the setting screen to be returned by the menu item buttons is confirmed, and the setting screen is returned It is possible to return directly to the screen. As a result, the number of operation procedures at the time of resetting parameters is reduced, and the operability of the hierarchical menu is improved. Also,
By automatically returning to the setting menu that was being set again after returning to the already set setting screen, it is possible to easily return to the original operation procedure after resetting.

Note that the copy number setting screen 14 (FIG. 7) before returning to the type setting screen 11 shown in FIG.
And is displayed in the copy number display window 143b. However, since the confirmation button 144 is not pressed, the input number of 10 copies is not set (determined) as a parameter.

In this state, as described above, the screen returns to the type setting screen 11 already set at a higher level, and when the parameters are reset, the number of copies setting screen 14 being set first after the resetting is completed.
It is preferable that the part number “10 parts” of the parameter that has been input in an undetermined state when the state is returned to is stored. In FIG. 19, in response to the holding of this parameter value, the input copy number value “10 copies” is displayed in the copy number display window 143b of the restored copy number setting screen 14 when the copy number value is restored. ing.

As described above, by retaining the parameter values that were being set when returning to the original setting screen, it is not necessary to input parameters again. These also improve the menu operability.

Of the menu item buttons, unset menu item buttons do not function as setting menu selection buttons for moving to a setting screen corresponding to the setting menu, but simply display menu items. It is a display section.

Next, selection of a preset value or an initial value for a parameter of each setting item will be described.

After the copying operation with a certain parameter setting is completed, there is a case where the operator wants to continue the copying operation by directly selecting the set value which is the value of the set parameter. In response to such selection of the preset value, in the above-described embodiment, the instruction menu display area 180 is displayed on the processing end screen 18 displayed after the end of the copying operation.
Next, a copy button 183 is provided on the right side (see FIG. 10).

For example, as parameter values of the essential setting items “copy type”, “paper size”, “magnification”, and “number of copies”, “full color”, “A4”,
“100%” and “10 copies” are set and a copying operation is performed. When the copying operation is completed, a processing end screen 18 is displayed.

At this time, a confirmation button 184 for clearing the set parameter values is displayed on the processing end screen 18.
In addition to the above, a continuous copy button 183 for instructing that the next copy operation be continuously performed using the set parameter values is displayed. Subsequently, when the copy button 183 is pressed to instruct another copy operation based on the set values, the setting control unit 42 of the menu operation control unit 40
In, the previously set values of the above parameters are held as they are, and are set again as parameter values for the respective setting items.

Then, in a state where the set values are held, the last setting screen of the plurality of setting screens, that is, the copy setting screen 1 which is one screen before the processing start screen 16 is set.
4 (FIG. 7). Here, if there is no need to change the respective parameter values from the already set values, the confirmation button 144 is pressed and the processing start screen 1 is displayed.
6 (FIG. 8), and the copying operation can be started again with the same set values of the same parameters as the previous copying operation.

In addition to the previously set values, the most frequently used parameter values are given in advance to the parameters of each setting item for performing the copying operation as initial values, and the operator sets the initial values. May be selectable. In response to such selection of the initial value, in the above-described embodiment, the setting is performed on the first setting screen among the plurality of setting screens, that is, on the top type setting screen 11 corresponding to the copy type setting menu. An initialization button 113 is provided on the right side of the menu display area 110 (see FIG. 4).

For example, as parameter values of “copy type”, “paper size”, “magnification”, and “number of copies” which are essential setting items, “full color”, “A4”,
“100%” and “10 parts” are given as initial values.
However, these initial values are not automatically selected or displayed.

At this time, the type setting screen 11, which is the first setting screen, has parameter input buttons 112a to 112a for setting parameter values for the setting item "copy type".
In addition to 12f, an initial setting button 113 for instructing to perform a copying operation using an initial value of a parameter given in advance is displayed. Then, when the initial setting button 113 is pressed to instruct a copy operation based on the initial value, the setting control unit 4 of the menu operation control unit 40
In 2, the initial value of each of the above-mentioned parameters is selected as a parameter value and set as a parameter value for each setting item.

Then, with this initial value set,
From the type setting screen 11, which is the first setting screen, immediately
The screen shifts to the processing start screen 16 (FIG. 8) displayed after all the parameter settings have been completed, and the execution of the copying operation using the initial values can be started.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a method of selecting the preset values or the initial values according to the transition flow of each screen. First, when setting of parameters for a copying operation is started on the first setting screen (step S101), an instruction is made as to whether or not to select an initial value for the parameter (S10).
2).

When the parameter input button is pressed on the first setting screen, the initial setting is not selected, and the subsequent setting screens are sequentially operated to reach the last setting screen (S103). When the parameter setting on the last setting screen is completed, the processing shifts to the processing start screen (S105),
The copying operation is ready to start. On the other hand, if the initial setting button is pressed on the first setting screen, the initial value is selected and set as a parameter (S104), and the process immediately shifts to the processing start screen (S105).

When the copy start button is pressed on the processing start screen, the copying operation is started and the processing execution screen is displayed (S106). Subsequently, the copying operation is completed and the processing end screen is displayed. (S107).

Next, an instruction is made as to whether or not a copy operation is to be performed again by selecting a preset value for the parameter (S).
108).

If the end confirmation button is pressed on the processing end screen, the set value is cleared without selecting the set value (S109). Then, the copying operation is completed, and the process waits for parameter setting for the next copying operation. On the other hand, on the processing end screen,
When the copy button is continuously pressed, the set value is selected and held as a parameter (S110).
The screen shifts to the last setting screen (S103).

As described above, by selecting the preset value or the initial value, the preset value or the initial value can be set to each parameter without operating each setting menu of the hierarchical menu. The operation procedure is simplified. In addition, when the already set value is selected, the process returns to the last setting screen without directly returning to the processing start screen. At this time, the operator is given an opportunity to check the values of the preset parameters, so that an operation error or the like due to an incorrect setting value is suppressed. On the other hand, when the initial value is selected, the screen shifts to the processing start screen. At this time, since the operator can immediately instruct the start of the processing operation, the operation procedure can be reduced as much as possible.

Even when the preset value or the initial value is selected as described above, if the user presses each preset menu item button on the copy number setting screen 14 or the processing start screen 16, the screen returns to the corresponding setting screen. It is possible to change a part of the set value or the initial value.

The screen display method, screen display device, and image processing device according to the present invention are not limited to the above-described embodiments and examples, and various modifications are possible. Regarding the processing execution screen displayed during the execution of the processing operation,
The configuration is not limited to the configuration of the above-described embodiment, and various configurations can be used. Although the processing type display section (processing type display window) uses a part of the processing execution screen in the above-described embodiment, the entire processing type display section may be used as the processing type display section. As the processing type identification image, various images such as a normal still image and an image composed of character data may be used in addition to the above-described animation display.

For a full-color image, a black-and-white image, and a single-color image corresponding to the full-color processing, the black-and-white processing, and the single-color processing, the entire processing type identification image is not identified as such an image. Only necessary parts may be used as those images. For example, in the processing type identification image shown in FIG. 11 representing the black and white processing, if a predetermined portion such as the color of the ink supplied to the paper or the color of the label of the ink can is a black and white image, , For example, a background color may be a color image.

In the above-described embodiments and examples, the menu operation method and the menu operation device are described as one embodiment of the image display method and the image display device. However, the menu operation function is performed by another device. Alternatively, the image display device may be configured to display only a process execution screen or the like. In this case, the touch panel 3a (input device 3) may be omitted from the device configuration shown in FIGS. A menu operation control unit 4 serving as a screen display control unit
For the configuration of 0, the setting control unit 42 and the like may be omitted. Further, a configuration in which the processing type and the operation condition are set by an instruction from an external device without performing the menu operation is also possible.

It is to be noted that the operation procedure of each setting menu can be variously modified. For example, among the setting items of the five setting menus in the above-described embodiment of the copying machine, 3
For the second “magnification”, 100% which is the same magnification is usually used. On the other hand, 100% is set as an initial value of the parameter only in the magnification setting menu, and after the setting of the paper size on the paper size setting screen is completed, the initial value of the magnification is automatically set to 100%. Alternatively, the screen may immediately shift to the copy number setting screen.
However, even in such a configuration, if the “magnification” menu item button is pressed to return to the magnification setting screen, the magnification is set to 1
It can be set to a value other than 00%.

Further, when the parameter value “photocopy” is selected in “copy type”, the paper size and the magnification need to be fixed to the default values. In such a case, it is preferable that the default values for the paper size and magnification are automatically set and cannot be changed. In addition, for the parameter that cannot be changed in such a manner, the parameter display window in the menu item button may display the parameter value in a display format different from normal to indicate to the operator that the parameter cannot be changed. It is possible.

[0142]

As described in detail above, the screen display method and the screen display device according to the present invention have the following effects. That is, when a plurality of processing operations can be performed, a processing type display unit is provided on the processing execution screen displayed on the display unit during the execution of the processing operations. Then, a processing type identification image representing the type of the processing operation being selected and being executed is displayed on the processing type display section. Thus, the operator can identify and confirm the type of the processing operation that is easily selected visually during the execution of the processing operation without waiting for the output of the processing operation result.

Such a screen display method and a screen display apparatus can be applied to an image processing apparatus such as a copying machine. In addition to image processing devices, ATMs such as banks
(Automatic Teller Machine), ticket machines for transportation, various other information terminals, and various processing devices capable of executing a plurality of types of processing operations can be similarly applied.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a menu operation device that is an embodiment of a screen display device.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration used in the menu operation device illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram illustrating a basic configuration of a copying machine that is an embodiment of an image processing apparatus to which a menu operation device is applied;

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an example of a copy type setting screen which is a first setting screen.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an example of a paper size setting screen which is a second setting screen.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an example of a magnification setting screen that is a third setting screen.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an example of a copy number setting screen which is a fourth setting screen.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a processing start screen.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an example of a process execution screen.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an example of a processing end screen.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a configuration of another example of a process execution screen.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an example of a document type option setting screen.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of another example of a copy number setting screen which is a fourth setting screen.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of another example of a copy type setting screen which is a first setting screen.

FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of another example of a copy type setting screen which is a first setting screen.

FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of another example of a paper size setting screen which is a second setting screen.

FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of another example of a magnification setting screen that is a third setting screen.

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of another example of a copy type setting screen which is a first setting screen.

FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of another example of a copy number setting screen which is a fourth setting screen.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating a method of selecting a preset value or an initial value.

[Explanation of symbols]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Display apparatus, 10 ... Display surface, 11 ... Copy type setting screen, 12 ... Paper size setting screen, 13 ... Magnification setting screen, 14 ... Number of copies setting screen, 16 ... Processing start screen, 17 ...
Processing execution screen, 18 processing end screen, 21 original type option setting screen, 110 setting menu display area,
111: Instruction content display window, 112: Parameter input button, 113: Initial setting button, 115: Hierarchical menu display area, 116: Menu item button, 117: Parameter display window, 119: Redo setting button, 144 ...
Confirmation button, 164: Copy start button, 172: Processing type display window, 174: Copy stop button, 183: Continue copy button, 184: Confirmation button, 3: Input device,
3a: Touch panel, 4: CPU, 4a: ROM, 4b
... RAM, 4c ... external storage device, 40 ... menu operation control unit, 41 ... display control unit, 42 ... setting control unit, 43 ... processing operation instruction unit, 46 ... menu data storage unit, 47 ... parameter data storage unit, CM ... Copying machine, 50. Image reading unit, 52. Main body, 60. Image forming unit, 62.

Continued on front page F-term (reference) 2C061 AP04 AR01 CQ14 CQ34 CQ43 CQ47 2H027 FA08 FA28 GA25 GA42 GA44 GB14 5C062 AA02 AA05 AB20 AB24 AB25 AB41 AB43 AB44 AC05 AC22 AE15 5E501 AA06 AA07 AA09 AA05 AC03 CA03 CB03 EA10 EB05 FA23 FA43 FA46 FB28 FB43 9A001 BB02 BB03 BB04 CZ02 DD07 DD13 HH26 HH30 HH31 HH32 JJ12 JJ35 JJ64 JJ77 KK42 KK56 KK58 LL09

Claims (7)

[Claims] 1. A screen display method applied to a processing device capable of executing a plurality of types of processing operations, wherein a screen related to the processing operations is displayed on a display unit, wherein a processing selected from the plurality of types of processing operations is provided. A screen for displaying, on the display unit, a processing execution screen having a processing type display section on which a processing type identification image representing the type of the selected processing operation is displayed when the operation is being executed. Display method. 2. The screen display method according to claim 1, wherein the processing type identification image is an animation representing the type of the selected processing operation. 3. A screen display device applied to a processing device capable of executing a plurality of types of processing operations, comprising: a display unit for displaying a screen related to the processing operations; and a display unit selected from the plurality of types of processing operations. A display control unit configured to display, on the display unit, a processing execution screen having a processing type display unit on which a processing type identification image representing the type of the selected processing operation is displayed when the processing operation is being performed. A screen display device comprising: a control unit. 4. The screen display device according to claim 3, wherein the processing type identification image is an animation representing the type of the selected processing operation. 5. An image processing apparatus capable of executing a plurality of types of image formation, comprising: a sheet feeding unit for feeding a sheet from a sheet feeding unit; and image data from an image reading unit or image data from an external device. Image forming means for executing image formation selected from the plurality of types of image formation on a sheet sent from the paper supply means, and processing type identification representing the selected image formation type A process execution screen having a process type display unit on which an image is displayed,
An image processing apparatus comprising: the screen display device according to claim 3 for displaying on a display means. 6. The plurality of types of image formation include at least two types of full-color processing, black-and-white processing, and single-color processing as the types, and the display unit used in the screen display device displays a color image. The display device capable of displaying, and the processing type identification images representing the full color processing, the black and white processing, and the single color processing are a full color image, a black and white image, and a single color image, respectively. Item 6. The image processing device according to Item 5. 7. The image processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the execution of the selected image formation can be stopped during execution.