JP2004061827A - Operating device having voice guidance, its operating method, program, and recording medium - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an operating device having voice guidance which supports a user unskilled in the operation of an electronic device or the like to use each function of the electronic device or the like. <P>SOLUTION: In the operating device with voice guidance, when the electronic device or the like is operated by an operation instruction using a functional key, the operation is made into a learning mode, then an operation guidance is output with voice in accordance with a depressed state of the functional key for the operation instruction, Thus, even the user unskilled in the operation can easily use the various functions of the electronic device or the like. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an operation device with voice guidance, an operation method thereof, a program, and a recording medium, and particularly to a user interface for a user who is not familiar with operations of an OA device, an ATM, a ticket vending machine, etc. to learn various operations. .
[0002]
[Prior art]
As various devices have advanced functions, user interfaces for users to use and operate these functions have become more complicated.
Taking a copy machine as an example, the setting items of a conventional analog copy machine are about “number of copies”, “magnification setting”, “double-sided copy”, “presence of sort”, and “density setting”. The latest digital copiers require a wide range of operations, such as vertical and horizontal independent scaling, simple bookbinding, an aggregation function to combine multiple pages into one, an editing function to set binding margins and date stamps, and a document storage function. It is said.
However, since the physical size of the operation panel is limited, buttons and the like corresponding to all functions cannot be provided.
[0003]
To cope with such a problem, Japanese Patent No. 2554325, entitled "Copier mode input method", makes it relatively easy to set various functions by setting them in a predetermined order. .
When setting various functions of the copier in a predetermined order, for example, <document size>, <paper cassette>, <magnification setting>, <duplex mode>, <presence / absence of sorting>, <density setting>, etc. Setting items are assigned to the numeric keypad for each of these functions, and the numeric keypad is used to input numbers to make settings.
[0004]
For example, the "2" key for <document size> A4, the "1" key for <paper cassette> tray 1, the "1" key for <magnification> 1: 1, <duplex mode> For single-sided original / double-sided printing, the "2" key, <Sort / Normal>"2" key for sorting, <Density setting>"1" key for automatic density, etc. By inputting “2, 1, 1, 2, 2, 1” and judging the correspondence between a predetermined numerical value and a function, complicated functions can be set using only the numeric keys.
[0005]
However, according to the method disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 2554325, when there is a very large number of setting items such as the latest digital copiers, even when only one setting needs to be changed, all the settings that do not need to be changed are required. Must be entered, which is a complicated operation.
Furthermore, with the support of dozens or more types of functions, it is virtually impossible to memorize all of these numbers and their order.
[0006]
In the case of an apparatus having a large number of setting items as described above, it is difficult to assign all functions to hard keys, and recently, a touch panel has been frequently used. Conversely, use may be difficult.
For example, for a visually impaired user, a key that cannot be distinguished by a tactile sensation such as a touch panel cannot be used at all. Also, when using the device from a wheelchair, it is impossible to operate the touch panel by groping because the liquid crystal screen installed on the top of the device is not visible.
[0007]
On the other hand, in the "composite apparatus" disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H10-117258, a composite apparatus having functions such as copying, facsimile, and printer is operated by voice guidance. This is a method of prompting the input of numbers and the like following the voice guidance, and setting various settings in a series of exchanges. Further, another tactile sensation is given to hard keys that are frequently used, so that the user can easily determine the keys.
[0008]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in the navigation system using voice guidance as described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. HEI 10-117258, since voice guides are reproduced in a preset order, even if only a very simple setting is required, all the settings are performed. Must be answered, and the setting time will be very long.
If the function of the voice guide is narrowed down in order to shorten the set time, it is not possible to set a function that is not guided, and the device cannot be used.
It is also difficult to change the set value already input during the setting.
[0009]
The present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstances, and an operation device with a voice guidance that assists a user who is not familiar with operation of an electronic device or the like to be able to use various functions of the electronic device or the like, An object of the present invention is to provide an operation method, a program for executing a function of the operation device, and a computer-readable recording medium on which the program is recorded.
[0010]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, an operation device with voice guidance according to claim 1 of the present invention has a normal operation mode and a learning operation mode, and operates the device by an operation instruction using a function key. An operation input unit for inputting operation instructions, a voice storage unit for storing information related to operation guidance, a voice output unit for converting the selected operation guidance into voice and outputting the voice, and controlling a device in accordance with the operation instruction When the operation instruction is an instruction to switch to a learning operation mode, the subsequent operation of the device is set to a learning mode, and pressing of a function key of the operation instruction is performed. In accordance with the state, the operation guidance stored in the voice storage unit is selected, and the instruction to output the selected operation guidance to the voice output unit is issued. Parts is characterized by that converts the speech indicated operation guidance from the operation control unit.
[0011]
According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the operation device with the voice guidance according to the first aspect, the operation input unit discriminates whether the function key is pressed for a short time or a long time, and It is characterized by being in a pressed state.
According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the operation device with voice guidance according to the second aspect, when the function key is pressed for a short time, the function key is selected. It is characterized in that only the description of the function key is selected from the operation guidance without being determined as the function key.
[0012]
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the operation device with voice guidance according to the second or third aspect, when the function key is pressed for a long time, the operation control unit selects the function key. It is characterized in that it is determined that the information has been given, and a description corresponding to the state at the time of the determination is selected from the operation guidance.
According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the operation device with the voice guidance according to the second or fourth aspect, instead of pressing the function key for a long time, the same key is continuously pressed twice. And
[0013]
According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the operation device with voice guidance according to the third aspect, when the function key is a key for executing a function of the device, the operation control unit may set the content already set. Is selected from the operation guidance.
According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the operation device with the voice guidance according to the fourth or fifth aspect, when the function key is a key for executing a function of the device, the operation control unit has already been set. The function of the device is executed according to the contents.
[0014]
The operation method with voice guidance according to claim 8 of the present invention has a normal operation mode and an operation mode for learning, and in the operation method for operating a device by an operation instruction using a function key, the operation instruction for operating the device. Is an instruction to switch to the operation mode for learning, the subsequent operation of the device is set to the learning mode, and the operation guidance stored in the voice storage unit is selected according to the pressed state of the function key of the operation instruction. Then, the selected operation guidance is converted into voice and output.
[0015]
A program according to a ninth aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer to function as the operating device with voice guidance according to any one of the first to seventh aspects.
A recording medium according to a tenth aspect of the present invention is a computer-readable recording medium storing the program according to the ninth aspect.
[0016]
With the above configuration, a user who is not familiar with the operation of an electronic device or the like can learn the operation using the voice guidance.
Further, even when the user does not know the operation of the key, the contents of the key are provided in a more easily understandable form, so that the user can operate with confidence while checking the key, and the operation method can be easily learned.
[0017]
In addition, since the actual operation is not performed during the voice guidance, the user who is not familiar with the operation method can learn the operation method with confidence without waste or cost.
Further, since an actual operation instruction can be given to the setting items set during the voice guidance, the same operation does not have to be repeated in the normal operation mode, and the operation is not wasted.
[0018]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, an embodiment of an operation device with voice guidance of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
In the description of the present embodiment, a description will be given assuming that the operation device with voice guidance of the present invention is incorporated in an MFP (digital multifunction peripheral: Multi-Function Peripherals). However, the operation target device with the voice guidance of the present invention is not limited to the MFP, but may be any device having diversified functions (for example, OA equipment, ATM, ticket vending machine, etc.). Similar effects can be expected.
[0019]
A. MFP incorporating operation device with voice guidance of the present invention
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an MFP incorporating the operation device with voice guidance of the present invention.
In FIG. 1, an MFP 100 includes a host connection device 101 for connecting a host and the MFP, a FAX line connection device 102 for connecting to a FAX line, a network connection device 103 for connecting to a network such as a LAN, and an MFP. An operation unit 104 for performing various setting operations; a scanner device 105 that scans an image from a platen to create image data; a printer engine 106 including an image forming device and a paper supply / discharge device; control of the entire MFP; A controller 107 that performs processing, facsimile control, scanner control, user recognition processing, sound output control, image data editing processing, and control for MFP operation, etc., stores facsimile-received image data, communication records, and image data used in each function. Storage device 108 that performs sound and A speaker for outputting sound, consisting of a sound output device 109 such as headphones.
[0020]
When using the printer function in such an MFP 100, print data transmitted from a host via the host connection device 101 or print data transmitted from a computer connected via the network connection device 103 The image data is temporarily stored in a reception buffer of the control controller 107, developed into image data in accordance with printer language processing by the controller 107, sent to the printer engine 106, and printed.
When the copy function of the MFP 100 is used, image data read from the scanner device 105 is sent to the printer engine 106 according to an instruction from the controller 107, and printing is executed.
[0021]
If the user is a person who can handle the MFP 100 freely, a copy instruction is given in accordance with the picture information displayed on the operation panel of the operation unit 104, and the image data read by the scanner device 105 is temporarily stored in the storage device 108. After editing the image data, superimposing a plurality of images, and the like by the image data editing process of the controller 107, the image data is printed by the printer engine 106 or the fax line connection device 102 Or fax transmission.
If the user is a person who cannot handle the MFP 100 freely, in response to an operation instruction given by a user such as a numeric keypad, the operation status is output to the sound output device 109 by a sound or voice. Check the operation status from and operate the copy function.
Further, even when the user is not familiar with the function of the MFP 100, in response to an operation instruction given by an input device that can be identified by the user such as a numeric keypad, a voice guidance that outputs the operation status to the sound output device 109. Check the operation status from and operate the copy function.
[0022]
The image data read by the scanner device 105 of the MFP 100, the facsimile image data obtained through the facsimile line connection device 102, and the image data obtained through the network connection device 103 are transferred to the host connection device 101 or the network connection device 103. Can be used to reprocess the image data transmitted to a computer via an application of the computer.
Further, the MFP 100 can obtain image data from an image data server connected to the Internet via the network connection device 103 and print the image data with the printer engine 106.
The above facsimile and network communication operations can be operated in the same manner as the copy function.
[0023]
B. Operation unit and operation panel
FIG. 2 is a front view of operation unit 104 in MFP 100 on which the operation device with voice guidance of the present invention is mounted.
At the center of the operation unit 104, a liquid crystal display (LCD) 201 and a touch panel are provided. On the liquid crystal display unit 201, setting items for functions (FAX, copy, printer, etc.) incorporated in the MFP 100 are displayed, and the user operates the MFP 100 by setting values in the displayed setting items. I do. Switching of the function is performed by a function key 205 provided on the left side of the liquid crystal display unit 201.
On the right side of the liquid crystal display unit 201, various keys such as various numeric keys 202, a clear / stop key 203, and a start key 204 commonly used for each function are arranged.
[0024]
C. Operations on this MFP
(1) Hierarchical menu structure
Since it is difficult to remember all operation functions as multiple menus as they are, all operable operation items are classified by function according to functions such as FAX function, copy function, printer function, scanner function, and NetFile function handled by the MFP. Then, the classification is further subdivided to create a single menu having a multi-level tree structure.
[0025]
For example, in the copy function shown in FIG. 3, when there are more detailed setting items such as “magnification” and “double-sided”, “magnification” and “double-sided” are set as one hierarchical name, and A layer name to be selected, such as “1 ×”, “enlarged”, “reduced”, etc., is arranged below the layer “”, and until the layer name becomes a final setting item such as “115%” or “93%”. Subdivide. Hereinafter, the hierarchy name and the setting items are collectively referred to as operation items.
[0026]
The types of operation items on this hierarchical menu include the following.
・ Selectable items that can be selected only one in the same level
For example, “115%” or “122%” under the “expansion” level
-Toggle item that can toggle function ON / OFF
For example, "Sort or not" under the "Finisher" hierarchy
・ Numeric items for which numerical values can be set
For example, the number of copies to copy
・ Operation items that start some operation
For example, creating a destination list registered with the FAX function
[0027]
For example, in the case of the copy function, first, as shown in FIG. 4, the first layer is named (number of copies, manuscript, paper, magnification, double-sided, finisher, etc.) I will make it.
Also, as shown in FIG. 4, numbers are associated with the operation items (layer names and setting items) of each layer, and by specifying these numbers, the operation items can be directly displayed without following each layer. You can choose.
[0028]
(2) Operation of hierarchical menu
Next, a method of operating the hierarchical menu as described above will be described.
To move / select the operation items arranged on the hierarchical menu described above, a direction moving key or a key that can be used instead is used, but in the following description, the ten keys 202 will be used instead. FIG. 5 shows a representative example of a function assigned to each key.
[0029]
That is, the vertical movement of the hierarchy is performed by pressing a vertically arranged key of the numeric keypad, and an adjacent item of the same hierarchy is performed by a horizontally arranged key of the numeric keypad.
In FIG. 5, the user moves up the hierarchy by pressing the "upward (" 2 ")" key, and goes down the hierarchy by pressing the "downward (" 8 ")" key.
By pressing the "move left (" 4 ")" key, the same level is traced to the left, and by pressing the "right move (" 6 ")" key, the same level is traced to the right.
When the user instructs to move to the lower level of the hierarchical menu, if there are a plurality of lower level operation items, the operation moves to the next operation item by a predetermined method.
[0030]
Further, in FIG. 5, when it is not clear which layer the user is in during the setting, or when the user wants to select again from the beginning, for example, the user can press the “return to top (“ 1 ”)” key. It is possible to return to the top layer (in the example of FIG. 4, the “number of copies” of the first layer) from any layer.
[0031]
Further, in FIG. 5, when the user selects a desired setting item (or inputs a numerical value) by operating the hierarchical menu using each of the above-described keys, a "setting ("#")" key is used to confirm the setting item. Press.
[0032]
In FIG. 5, when the "mode switching (" 5 ")" key is pressed for a long time (3 seconds or more), the current mode is switched. This mode includes a normal operation mode and a learning mode for providing voice guidance for a user who is unfamiliar with the operation of the device.
[0033]
If the current mode is the “learning mode”, when the “mode switching (“ 5 ”)” key is pressed for a long time (3 seconds or more), the mode is switched to the “normal operation mode”.
If the current mode is the “normal operation mode”, the headset is connected to the MFP 100 and the “mode switching (“ 5 ”)” key is pressed for a long time (3 seconds or more) to switch to the “learning mode”. To headset headphones
"We have entered learning mode. In this mode, press a key and an explanation will be given. By pressing and holding for 2 seconds, the operation of the key will be confirmed. Pressing the start key will notify you of the set content by voice Will not be printed. Press and hold 5 for 3 seconds again to return to normal operating mode. "
The explanation of how to use the learning mode is played as voice guidance.
[0034]
After entering the learning mode, voice guidance is output to the headphones as follows by operating the ten keys 202 and the start key 204 described above.
When a key is pressed for a short time (2 seconds or less), the explanation about each key flows.
For example,
When "1" key is pressed, "Return to menu number 1."
When "2" key is pressed, "Go up one menu level."
When the “#” key is pressed, “The setting key has been pressed.”
Voice guidance such as is provided.
[0035]
Further, by continuing to press the same key as it is (for example, pressing it for 2 seconds or more), the user is assumed to have selected the key, and voice guidance is provided for the situation resulting from the selection of the key.
For example,
When the “2” key is determined, following the explanation of the key, “1.
When the "6" key is determined, following the explanation of the key, "2. Original setting. There is a menu below."
Voice guidance such as is provided.
[0036]
The description of the case where the direction key or the setting key is kept depressed differs depending on which one of the hierarchical menus or what setting item has been set.
For example, if the “8” key is pressed for a long time (2 seconds or more) while currently in “3. Paper” in the hierarchical menu, “31. Voice guidance of "paper."
Also, for example, if the “#” key is pressed for a long time (2 seconds or more) after selecting “3. Paper” and “32. A4”, after the “setting key was pressed”, The voice guidance "Paper is set to A4."
By giving the voice guidance in this way, the user can operate while confirming the type of the pressed key and the setting content.
[0037]
When the copy start key is pressed for a short time (2 seconds or less) in the learning mode, the actual copy is not performed, and the contents of the items set up to that point are voice-guided. Can determine success or failure.
For example, after setting as follows,
・ Darkness of manuscript: Darkness 2
・ Paper: A3
・ Expansion: 141%
When the start key is pressed for a short time (2 seconds or less), a voice guidance of “copying is performed at a density of 2 for the original, A3 for paper, and 141% for enlargement” is performed.
[0038]
Further, if the start key is pressed for a long time (2 seconds or more) to instruct the user to actually execute the copy, the contents set up to now can be confirmed, and in the actual copy, the operation mode returns to the normal operation mode. There is no need to repeat the same operation.
[0039]
Alternatively, instead of keeping the key pressed for a long time (2 seconds or longer), the same key may be pressed twice when the same key is pressed twice.
[0040]
FIG. 6 is an example of voice guidance when an operation of “performing 122% enlargement copy” is performed. To do this, go to “Original” → “Paper” → “Resize” → “Same size” → “Enlarge” → “115%” → “122%” from “Copies” in the top menu, and use the setting key to change the value. Can be set. If you indicate this with the numeric keypad,
6 (Press for 2 seconds) → 6 (Press for 2 seconds) → 6 (Press for 2 seconds) → 8 (Press for 2 seconds)
→ 6 (Press for 2 seconds) → 8 (Press for 2 seconds) → 6 (Press for 2 seconds) → # (Press for 2 seconds)
→ Start (press for 2 seconds)
By pressing in this order, the actual copying is performed.
Here, the initial position of the hierarchical menu when the MFP is started up is “number of copies” of the top menu, but during operation, the user moves to the top menu by pressing the “1” key for a long time (2 seconds or more). If the above operation is performed after that, the user can surely operate without being lost on the hierarchical menu.
[0041]
In addition, the first line in FIG. 6 illustrates the description of the voice guidance when the learning mode is entered, and the second to fourth lines confirm the type of key by pressing each key for a short time.
The ninth line is a warning message that the "8 (downward movement)" key cannot be pressed because there is no setting item under the hierarchical menu "41.
[0042]
D. Functional configuration in MFP
FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of an MFP in which the operation device with voice guidance of the present invention is incorporated.
The MFP in FIG. 7 includes at least an operation input unit 310, an operation control unit 320, an audio output unit 330, an audio storage unit 340, and a function execution unit 350.
[0043]
The operation input unit 310 inputs instructions from various function keys and numeric keys, and in a normal operation mode, passes the input value to the operation control unit 320, and further, the function execution unit 350 executes the functions of the MFP.
Also, in the learning mode, various operation instructions are input from a direction moving key for moving the hierarchical structure of the hierarchical menu, various keys for selecting / confirming operation items, ten keys, and the like, and are transferred to the operation control unit 320.
[0044]
The operation control unit 320 allows the user to specify which function such as the copy function or the facsimile function to use, and controls the initial setting for the operation and various input operations and operations such as displaying the processing results. I do.
In addition, the operation control unit 320 is initially in the normal operation mode. When the user presses the mode switching key for three seconds or more and inserts the headset including the headphones and the microphone, "the learning mode has been entered.- ... ”, And thereafter, the learning mode is controlled.
[0045]
The operation control unit 320 manages the current position on the hierarchical menu in the learning mode.
When the state of the input key passed from the operation input unit 310 is pressed for a short time, an explanation of the key is output to the headphone by voice.
When the start key is pressed for a short time, the actual copy is not performed, and the contents of the items set up to that point are voice-guided.
[0046]
When the state of the input key passed from the operation input unit 310 is pressed for a long time (2 seconds or more), in the case of a key that moves on the hierarchical menu, it is checked whether the destination exists on the hierarchical menu. If it exists, the current position is moved to the position of the movement destination, and the state of the movement destination is output to the headphones by voice. In the case of a key that does not move (for example, a setting key or the like), a function process given to that key is performed, and the result is output to the headphones by a voice guide.
When the setting key is pressed for a long time (2 seconds or more), the selected state is output to the headphones by a voice guide before the setting key is pressed.
When the start key is pressed for a long time (2 seconds or more), the contents set for copying are guided by voice and the actual copying is executed.
[0047]
Instead of keeping the key pressed for a long time (2 seconds or more), the same key may be selected when the same key is pressed twice.
[0048]
In the learning mode, the voice output unit 330 extracts voice guidance and the like for various operations using the numeric keypad and the like from the voice storage unit 340 according to an instruction from the operation control unit 320, converts the voice guidance into voice, and outputs the voice to headphones.
The voice storage unit 340 connects voice information corresponding to a hierarchical name or a setting item name required for voice guidance in a tree structure format in the guide order, and registers the voice information in one of the following data formats.
・ Recorded audio data
・ Data obtained by compressing audio using CELP (code exited linear prediction)
・ Text data for speech synthesis
[0049]
The function execution unit 350 stores setting values for various setting items passed from the operation control unit 320 in a memory of the MFP 100 determined according to a function (for example, a copy function or a facsimile function), and actually executes the function. Let it.
[0050]
E. FIG. MFP operation
The operation of the MFP configured as described above will be described with reference to an example of an operation of a copy function.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure for the operation of the copy function.
First, when the mode switching key is pressed for a long time (3 seconds or more) (YES in step S1), the current setting mode is switched (step S2), and the process returns to step S1 to process the next operation instruction.
To switch from the "normal operation mode" to the "learning mode", press the mode switching key and connect a headset equipped with headphones and a microphone to the MFP. A voice guide is made.
On the other hand, if the current mode is the “learning mode”, the mode is switched to the “normal operation mode”.
[0051]
Next, when the direction movement key (up / down / left / right) is pressed (YES in step S3), if the pressed state of the key is short, voice guidance of the key is performed (step S4), and the next operation instruction is given. The process returns to step S1 to process.
On the other hand, if the key has been pressed for a long time (2 seconds or more), the user moves up and down the hierarchical menu or moves to an adjacent item in the same hierarchical level, voice-guides the destination (step S4), and gives the next operation instruction. The process returns to step S1 to process.
The operation control unit 320 manages where in the hierarchical menu by recording the destination on the hierarchical menu as the current position.
[0052]
Next, when the "return to top (" 1 ")" key is pressed (YES in step S5), if the pressed state of the key is short, the key is voice-guided (step S6). The process returns to step S1 to process the next operation instruction.
On the other hand, if the key is pressed for a long time (2 seconds or more), the operation is moved to the operation item (“number of copies”) in the first menu of the highest hierarchy, and the destination is voice-guided (step). S6) Return to step S1 to process the next operation instruction.
The operation control unit 320 manages the current position so as to be the operation item in the first menu of the highest hierarchy.
[0053]
Next, when the "set ("#")" key is pressed (YES in step S7), if the key is pressed for a short time, voice guidance of the key is performed (step S8), and the next step is performed. The process returns to step S1 to process the operation instruction.
On the other hand, if the key has been pressed for a long time (2 seconds or more), the selection of the setting item of the current position selected before the setting key is pressed is confirmed, and the status is output to the headphones by a voice guide. Then, the process returns to step S1 to process the next operation instruction (step S8).
[0054]
Next, when the setting of each setting item is completed and the "start" key is pressed (YES in step S9), if the key is pressed for a short time, actual copying is not performed. The content of the item set in is provided by voice guidance (step S10), and the process returns to step S1 to process the next operation instruction.
On the other hand, if the key is pressed for a long time (2 seconds or more), the content set for copying is output to the headphone by a voice guide, the setting content is set to the MFP, and the actual copy is executed. Then (step S10), the process returns to step S1 to process the next operation instruction.
[0055]
On the other hand, if it is not the above-mentioned key (mode switching, direction movement, return to top, setting, start) (NO in step S9), the function corresponding to the key is executed (step S11), and the next operation instruction is performed. The process returns to step S1 to process.
[0056]
F. Computer operation of operating device with voice guidance
The present invention is not limited to only the above-described embodiments. Each function of the operating device with voice guidance of the above-described embodiment is programmed and written in a recording medium such as a CD-ROM in advance, and the CD-ROM is mounted with a medium driving device such as a CD-ROM drive. By mounting these programs in a computer or storing them in a memory or a storage device of each computer and executing the programs, the object of the present invention can be achieved.
[0057]
As a recording medium, a semiconductor medium (for example, ROM, non-volatile memory card, etc.), an optical medium (for example, DVD, MO, MD, CD-R, etc.), a magnetic medium (for example, magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.) Either one may be used.
[0058]
Further, a case is also included in which the operating system or the like performs part or all of the actual processing based on the instruction of the loaded program, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.
[0059]
Further, the above-described program is loaded into a memory provided in the function expansion board or the function expansion unit, and based on an instruction of the program, the CPU or the like provided in the function expansion board or the function expansion unit executes part or all of the actual processing. This includes the case where the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.
[0060]
When the above-described program is stored in a storage device such as a magnetic disk of a server computer, and is downloaded and distributed from a computer of a user connected through a communication network, the storage device of the server computer is also a recording medium according to the present invention. include.
[0061]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, a user who is not familiar with the operation of an electronic device or the like can learn the operation using voice guidance.
Further, even when the user does not know the operation of the key, the contents of the key are provided in a more easily understandable form, so that the user can operate with confidence while checking the key, and the operation method can be easily learned.
[0062]
In addition, since the actual operation is not performed during the voice guidance, the user who is not familiar with the operation method can learn the operation method with confidence without waste or cost.
Further, since an actual operation instruction can be given to the setting items set during the voice guidance, the same operation does not have to be repeated in the normal operation mode, and the operation is not wasted.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an MFP incorporating an operation device with voice guidance according to the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a front view of an operation unit.
FIG. 3 is a list example of a copy function;
FIG. 4 is a configuration example of a hierarchical menu related to a copy function.
FIG. 5 is an example of a functional arrangement of numeric keys.
FIG. 6 is an output example of voice guidance.
FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of an MFP incorporating the operation device with voice guidance according to the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure for an operation of a copy function.
[Explanation of symbols]
100: MFP, 101: Host connection device, 102: FAX line connection device, 103: Network connection device, 104: Operation unit, 105: Scanner device, 106: Printer engine, 107: Control controller, 108: Storage device, 109 ... Sound output device, 201 ... Liquid crystal display unit, 202 ... Ten key, 203 ... Stop key, 204 ... Start key, 205 ... Function key, 310 ... Operation input unit, 320 ... Operation control unit, 330 ... Sound output unit, 340 ... Voice storage unit, 350: function execution unit.

Claims (10)

An operation device that has a normal operation mode and an operation mode for learning, and operates the device with an operation instruction using a function key, an operation input unit that inputs the operation instruction, a voice storage unit that stores information related to operation guidance, An audio output unit that converts the selected operation guidance into audio and outputs the audio, and an operation control unit that controls a device according to the operation instruction, wherein the operation control unit is configured to output the operation instruction for learning. In the case of an instruction to switch to the operation mode, the subsequent operation of the device is set to the learning mode, and the operation guidance stored in the voice storage unit is selected according to the pressed state of the function key of the operation instruction. Instructs to output the selected operation guidance to the audio output unit, and the audio output unit converts the operation guidance instructed by the operation control unit into audio and outputs the audio. DOO voice guidance equipped control apparatus according to claim. 2. The operation device with voice guidance according to claim 1, wherein the operation input unit distinguishes whether the function key has been pressed for a short time or a long time, and sets the function key in a pressed state. 3. Operating device with voice output function. 3. The operation device with voice guidance according to claim 2, wherein when the function key is pressed for a short time, the function key is not determined to be selected, but the function key is not determined. An operation device with a voice output function, wherein only the description of the operation is selected from the operation guidance. 4. The operation device with voice guidance according to claim 2, wherein when the function key is pressed for a long time, the operation control unit determines that the function key is selected, and determines that the function key is selected. 5. An operation device with a sound output function, wherein a description according to a state at that time is selected from the operation guidance. The operating device with voice guidance according to claim 2 or 4, wherein the same key is continuously pressed twice instead of pressing the function key for a long time. 4. The operation device with voice guidance according to claim 3, wherein, when the function key is a key for executing a function of the device, the operation control unit selects a description of the content already set from the operation guidance. 5. An operating device with a voice output function, characterized by the following. 6. The operation device with voice guidance according to claim 4, wherein the operation control unit executes the function of the device according to the content already set when the function key is a key for executing the function of the device. 7. An operating device with a voice output function, characterized by that: It has a normal operation mode and a learning operation mode, and in an operation method of operating a device by an operation instruction using a function key, when the operation instruction for operating the device is an instruction to switch to a learning operation mode, The operation of the device is set to the learning mode, and the operation guidance stored in the voice storage unit is selected according to the pressed state of the function key of the operation instruction, and the selected operation guidance is converted into voice and output. An operation method with voice guidance, characterized in that: A program for causing a computer to function as the operation device with voice guidance according to any one of claims 1 to 7. A computer-readable recording medium on which the program according to claim 9 is recorded.

Images