JP2004098618A

JP2004098618A - Structure of operation part of image forming apparatus

Info

Publication number: JP2004098618A
Application number: JP2002267033A
Authority: JP
Inventors: Goro Katsuyama; 勝山　悟朗; Masanao Takahashi; 高橋　雅尚; Takashi Hoshimura; 星村　隆史; Yoshihisa Minagawa; 皆川　佳久
Original assignee: Ricoh Co Ltd
Current assignee: Ricoh Co Ltd
Priority date: 2002-09-12
Filing date: 2002-09-12
Publication date: 2004-04-02
Anticipated expiration: 2022-09-12
Also published as: JP4064769B2

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide the structure of the operation part of an image forming apparatus capable of automatically changing over the allotment of a key signal for plate making and printing by simple operation. <P>SOLUTION: A part of an operation panel 1 is arranged as a detachable cover 10 and a pair of circular holes 13 and 14 for exposing a plate making start key 11 and a printing start key 12 and fixing pawl-shaped parts 15 and 16 are provided. Holes 18 and 19 for inserting the pawl-shaped parts 15 and 16 are provided to the recessed part 17 for attaching and detaching the cover 10 of the operation panel 1 and the cover 10 is made detachable with respect to the recessed part 17 without using a screw or the like. A recessed part 20 capable of being simply detached by a coin or the like is provided to the end edge of the cover 10. Only by replacing the plate making start key 11 and a printing start key 12 by detaching the cover 10, users of a copier and a printer can arbitrarily select the optimum key arrangement without performing function replacing operation or the like. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

【０００１】
【発明の属する技術分野】
本発明は、複写機としての機能と印刷機としての機能を有する画像形成装置の操作部構造に関する。
【０００２】
【従来の技術及び発明が解決しようとする課題】
複写機としての機能と印刷機としての機能の双方を有する画像形成装置に用いる操作部構造では、図１に示すように、操作パネル１に製版とプリントの２つの対等なスタートキー２、３を設けていた。これは、この種の複数機能を有する画像形成装置を複写機ユーザーへ普及させることを狙ったものである。なお図示の操作パネル１は、表示パネル４やテンキー群５外種々のキーを備えている。ところが、このような従来の操作部構造では下記のようにいろいろな不具合があった。
【０００３】
例えば、一般的な複写機ユーザーは、製版用、プリント用としてそれぞれスタートキーがあるため、どちらを操作すべきなのか等と迷って混乱しやすかった。一方、専業的な印刷機ユーザーの一部からはスタートキーが分かりにくいとの意見や、１つのスタートキーで機能を切り替えると混乱する等の指摘があった。さらに、スタートキーの機能を製版とプリントとに初期設定操作で切り替えるようにすると、設定操作がユーザーにはなかなか理解しにくかった。
【０００４】
本発明は上記従来の問題点にかんがみ、簡単な操作でキー信号の割り当てを自動で切り替えられる画像形成装置の操作部構造を提供することを目的とする。
【０００５】
【課題を解決するための手段】
本発明の請求項１に係る画像形成装置の操作部構造は、上記目的を達成するために、複写機としての機能と印刷機としての機能の双方を有する画像形成装置に用い、上記両機能用の２つのスタートキーの入れ替えにより所望のキー配列を任意に選択してキー信号の割り当てを自動的に切り替え可能としてなる画像形成装置の操作部構造であって、上記スタートキーを配する操作パネル本体の一部を、着脱式で上記スタートキーに被せてボタン部分を露出させるカバーとして形成してなることを特徴とする。
【０００６】
同請求項２に係るものは、上記目的を達成するために、請求項１の画像形成装置の操作部構造において、上記着脱式のカバーに、上記操作パネル本体へ固定するための爪形状部を設け、上記操作パネル本体には上記爪形状部を受ける穴を設けてなることを特徴とする。
【０００７】
同請求項３に係るものは、上記目的を達成するために、請求項１または２の画像形成装置の操作部構造において、上記着脱式のカバーに、上記操作パネル本体との間に隙間を作るための分解用凹形状部を設けてなることを特徴とする。
【０００８】
同請求項４に係るものは、上記目的を達成するために、請求項１ないし３のいずれかの画像形成装置の操作部構造において、上記操作パネル本体の上記２つのスタートキーを設ける部位が、いずれのスタートキーでも入れ替え装着可能な同一または同等形状を有することを特徴とする。
【０００９】
同請求項５に係るものは、上記目的を達成するために、請求項１ないし４のいずれかの画像形成装置の操作部構造において、上記スタートキーが周縁部に鍔形状部を有し、上記着脱式のカバーの上記スタートキーを露出させる穴部の内周面で上記鍔形状部を受け止めるようにしてなることを特徴とする。
【００１０】
同請求項６に係るものは、上記目的を達成するために、請求項１ないし５のいずれかの画像形成装置の操作部構造において、上記スタートキー外周縁部に凹形状部を設け、上記操作パネル本体に上記凹形状部と嵌合可能な凸形状部を設けてなることを特徴とする。
【００１１】
同請求項７に係るものは、上記目的を達成するために、請求項１ないし６のいずれかの画像形成装置の操作部構造において、上記スタートキーの頂面に、該スタートキーの機能を示す名称や絵文字等の表示を設けてなることを特徴とする。
【００１２】
同請求項８に係るものは、上記目的を達成するために、複写機としての機能と印刷機としての機能の双方を有する画像形成装置に用い、上記両機能用の２つのスタートキーの入れ替えにより所望のキー配列を任意に選択してキー信号の割り当てを自動的に切り替え可能としてなる画像形成装置の操作部構造であって、上記スタートキーを配する操作パネル本体に上記スタートキーを直接着脱可能としてなることを特徴とする。
【００１３】
同請求項９に係るものは、上記目的を達成するために、請求項８の画像形成装置の操作部構造において、上記２つのスタートキーそれぞれに、上記操作パネル本体へ固定するための爪形状部を設け、上記操作パネル本体には上記爪形状部を受ける穴を設けてなることを特徴とする。
【００１４】
同請求項１０に係るものは、上記目的を達成するために、請求項８または９の画像形成装置の操作部構造において、上記操作パネルに、上記スタートキーとの間に隙間を作るための分解用凹形状部を設けてなることを特徴とする。
【００１５】
同請求項１１に係るものは、上記目的を達成するために、請求項８ないし１０のいずれかの画像形成装置の操作部構造において、上記操作パネル本体の上記２つのスタートキーを設ける部位が、いずれのスタートキーでも入れ替え装着可能な同一または同等形状を有することを特徴とする。
【００１６】
同請求項１２に係るものは、上記目的を達成するために、請求項８ないし１１のいずれかの画像形成装置の操作部構造において、上記スタートキーの頂面に、該スタートキーの機能を示す名称や絵文字等の表示用デカルを貼設してなることを特徴とする。
【００１７】
同請求項１３に係るものは、上記目的を達成するために、複写機としての機能と印刷機としての機能の双方を有する画像形成装置に用い、所望のキー配列を任意に選択してキー信号の割り当てを自動的に切り替え可能としてなる画像形成装置の操作部構造であって、上記操作パネル本体の一部を、着脱式のユニットとして形成してなることを特徴とする。
【００１８】
同請求項１４に係るものは、上記目的を達成するために、請求項１３の画像形成装置の操作部構造において、上記ユニットを２種類の交換ユニットとして選択可能に備えることを特徴とする。
【００１９】
同請求項１５に係るものは、上記目的を達成するために、請求項１３の画像形成装置の操作部構造において、上記ユニットを２種類備え、該２種類のユニットの一を標準ユニットとし、他を交換ユニットとして選択可能に備えることを特徴とする。
【００２０】
同請求項１６に係るものは、上記目的を達成するために、請求項１３ないし１５のいずれかの画像形成装置の操作部構造において、上記ユニットが２つのスタートキーを備えることを特徴とする。
【００２１】
同請求項１７に係るものは、上記目的を達成するために、請求項１３ないし１６のいずれかの画像形成装置の操作部構造において、上記スタートユニットの頂面に、該スタートユニットのキー名称の表示を設けてなることを特徴とする。
【００２２】
同請求項１８に係るものは、上記目的を達成するために、請求項１６または１７の画像形成装置の操作部構造において、上記ユニットが備える上記２つのスタートキーの直径を異ならせてなることを特徴とする。
【００２３】
同請求項１９に係るものは、上記目的を達成するために、請求項１６または１７の画像形成装置の操作部構造において、上記２つのスタートキーの直径を同一としてなることを特徴とする。
【００２４】
同請求項２０に係るものは、上記目的を達成するために、請求項１８の画像形成装置の操作部構造において、上記ユニットが備える上記２つのスタートキーの一が製版スタートキー、他がプリントスタートキーであり、該製版スタートが上記プリントスタートキーより大径であることを特徴とする。
【００２５】
同請求項２１に係るものは、上記目的を達成するために、請求項２０の画像形成装置の操作部構造において、上記製版スタートキーを画像形成装置本体と同色とし、上記プリントスタートキーよりも上記画像形成装置本体前面側に配置してなることを特徴とする。
【００２６】
同請求項２２に係るものは、上記目的を達成するために、請求項１６ないし２０のいずれかの画像形成装置の操作部構造において、製版スタートキーを上記プリントスタートキーよりも上記画像形成装置本体奥側に配置してなることを特徴とする。
【００２７】
同請求項２３に係るものは、上記目的を達成するために、請求項１ないし２２のいずれかの画像形成装置の操作部構造において、上記スタートキーの底面に同一形状の柱形状部を複数設け、上記２つのスタートキーごとに該柱形状部の位置をずらして配してなることを特徴とする。
【００２８】
同請求項２４に係るものは、上記目的を達成するために、請求項２３の画像形成装置の操作部構造において、上記２つのスタートキーの下方に位置する基板に上記位置の異なる柱形状部すべてに対応させてスイッチを配してなることを特徴とする。
【００２９】
【発明の実施の形態】
以下本発明の実施の形態を図面を参照して説明する。なお以下では従来と共通する部分には共通する符号を付して説明する。
図２は、本発明に係る画像形成装置の操作部構造の一実施形態の要部を示す分解斜視図である。本実施形態は、操作パネル１の一部を着脱式のカバー１０とし、このカバー１０を外して２つのスタートキー（製版スタートキー１１とプリントスタートキー１２）を入れ替えるだけで複写機と印刷機の各ユーザーが最適なキー配列を任意に選択でき、機能を切り替え操作等を行わずにキー信号の割り当てが直接的に自動で切り替わるようにしたものである。
【００３０】
カバー１０は、製版スタートキー１１とプリントスタートキー１２を露出させるための一対の同形状の円形穴１３、１４を備えるとともに、長手方向上下両端には固定用の爪形状部１５、１６が設けてあり、操作パネル１のカバー１０を着脱する凹部１７には爪形状部１５、１６を差し込むための穴１８、１９が設けてある。このため、ネジ等を使わずにカバー１０を凹部１７に対して着脱できる。またカバー１０の長手方向で図中下側の端縁には、工具がなくても硬貨等で簡単に取り外し操作ができるようにするための凹部２０が設けてある。
【００３１】
図３は、カバー１０を取り外した状態の拡大斜視図（Ａ）、カバー１０及びスタートキー１１、１２の正面側斜視図（Ｂ）及びその背面側斜視図である。図示のように、操作パネル１の凹部１７内には、両スタートキー１１、１２を装着するための円形凹部２１、２２が一対設けてある。両スタートキー１１、１２、カバー１０の円形穴１３、１４及びこれら円形凹部２１、２２は同一形状としてあり、スタートキー１１、１２はどちらの円形凹部２１、２２にも装着でき、入れ替え得るようにしてある。またスタートキー１１、１２は周縁に鍔状部２３を備え、そこに複数のくぼみ２４がそれぞれ設けてある。それに対応させて円形凹部２１、２２の外周縁には凸部２５を形成して鍔状部２３のくぼみ２４と嵌合できるようにしてあり、スタートキー１１、１２が外れたり、回ったりしないように、しかも天地が逆にならず正しい向きでセット、保持できるようになっている。
【００３２】
また、スタートキー１１、１２の下面には、それぞれ２本の柱形状部２６が設けてあり、操作パネル１の凹部１５内にはこれら柱形状部２６を通すための穴２７が複数個設けてあり、さらに操作パネル１の凹部１５下側に設ける基板２８には、４個のスイッチ２９を正方形の頂点位置に配置して構成した２つのスイッチ部３０、３１がそれぞれ設けてある。スタートキー１１、１２の柱形状部２６は、各キーの向きを示す表面の文字３２、３３に関して９０度ずれた状態で、すなわち製版スタートキー１１では文字３２と平行に、プリントスタートキー１２では文字３３と直角をなすように形成してある。そのため、円形凹部２１、２２へどちらのスタートキー１１、１２を装着するかによってキー信号の割り当てを自動で切り替えられるようになっている。
【００３３】
例えば学校やチラシ業者等のようにプリントを多用するユーザーでは、図４（Ａ）に示すように製版スタートキー１１を上側（実記の配置では奥側）に、プリントスタートキー１２を下側（実記配置では手前側）に装着するとよい。一方、一般的なユーザーであれば図４（Ｂ）に示すように、プリントスタートキー１２を上側に、製版スタートキー１１を下側に装着するとよい。すなわち、業態、使用形態等に応じて最適なキー配列を任意に選択すればよい。
【００３４】
なお本実施形態では両スタートキー１１、１２とも頂面に文字３２、３３を形成して機能を表示しており、両スタートキー１１、１２の位置を入れ替えても表記の違いでこれを認識できるようにしてある。文字に代えて絵文字、絵柄等を用いても同様である。
【００３５】
図５ないし図８は、スタートキー１１、１２を入れ替える手順を示す斜視図である。図５のようにプリントスタートキー１２を上側にセットしてカバー１０を装着した状態から、図６に示すようにカバー１０の凹部２０を利用してカバー１０の下端を持ち上げ、下端側の爪形状部１６を穴１９から抜き出し、カバー１０を手前側（図の紙面で下側）へ引いて上端側の爪形状部１５を穴１８から抜き出す。図７に示すようにカバー１０を取り去った後、スタートキー１１、１２を図８に示すように入れ替え、上記とは逆の手順、動作方向でカバー１０を操作パネル１の凹部１７に装着する。
【００３６】
図９は、本発明に係る画像形成装置の操作部構造の他の実施形態の要部を示す分解斜視図、図１０はそのスイッチ部の平面図（Ａ）、スタートスイッチ１１、１２の配置例の平面図（Ｂ、Ｃ）である。本実施形態は、カバー１０の側縁に爪形状部１５ａ、１６ａを設け、凹部１７もこれに対応して側縁に穴１８ａ、１９ａを備える。また両スタートキー１１、１２は柱形状部２６の間、すなわち円形の中心位置背面に基点柱形状部２６ａを備え、凹部１５内にはこれを通すための穴２７ａを設け、スイッチ部３０、３１は正方形に配したスイッチ２８の中央位置に基点部２８ａを備えている。なおスイッチ２８の配置形態が先の実施形態とは９０度回転方向でずれており、両スタートキー１１、１２の柱形状部２６もこれにあわせて文字３１、３２に関して４５度をなすように斜めに配設してある。図１０（Ｂ）は図４（Ａ）と、図１０（Ｃ）は図４（Ｂ）と対応する配置となっている。なお、その他の構成、構造、それらの変形、あるいは操作等については、先の実施形態と同様であるので説明を省略する。
【００３７】
図１１は、本発明に係る画像形成装置の操作部構造のさらに他の実施形態の要部を示す斜視図である。本実施形態は、２つのスタートキー１１、１２を操作パネル１に対して直接着脱できるようにしたもので、操作パネル１に直接設けた円形穴の開口縁１３ａ、１４ａを図示のように外側へ向けて開く斜面状とし、さらに一部に切り欠き穴部１３ｂ、１４ｂを設け、スタートキー１１、１２の着脱作業を容易に行える構造としてある。スタートキー１１、１２には切り欠き穴部１３ｂ、１４ｂに装着する爪形状部を設けるが、図示は省略する。なおこの実施形態の構造の場合は、ドライバー等の工具でスタートキー１１、１２を取り外すことが望ましい。また本実施形態では、各スタートキー１１、１２に文字を付するのではなく、操作パネル１にスタートキー１１、１２の名称を示すデカルを貼付するための凹部３５、３６を設けてあり、デカルの入れ替えで表記の入れ替えができるようになっている。その他の基本的な構成、構造、それらの変形、あるいは操作等については、先の実施形態と同様であるので説明を省略する。
【００３８】
なお図示は省略するが、操作パネル１の一部をカバーとした上記実施形態だけでなく、上述した実施形態の基板２８とスイッチ部３０、３１以外の要素を例えば箱状の着脱式ユニットとしてまとめ、操作パネル１の一部として着脱可能にすることもできる。そして、このような着脱式のユニットを２種類、画像形成装置と同梱して出荷することで、使用場所への設置時に任意のユニットを選択できるようにしたり、２種類のユニットの一方を標準ユニットとして予め操作パネル１にセットしておき、他方を交換ユニットとしたりすることもできる。後者の場合、２種類のユニットを同梱する場合に比べると、不要であると予め分かっているユニットを梱包内容から除外できる。
【００３９】
またユニット化した場合には、スタートキー１１、１２の名称を着脱ユニットの上面に設けてキー操作で印刷文字が消えにくいようにすることができる。また主に複写機として使用する一般的なユーザー向けとして、２つのスタートキー１１、１２の直径を異ならせ、例えば一方を連続スタートキーとし、他方をプリントスタートキーとして連続スタートキーのほうを大きくすることや、連続スタートキーを画像形成装置本体と同色で装置の手前に配置することで、通常の複写機と同じ感覚で印刷機を気軽に使用できるで、複写機と同じ感覚で印刷機を気軽に使用できるようにしてもよい。
【００４０】
また主に印刷機として使用するユーザー向けに、２つのスタートキー１１、１２の直径を同一にし、製版とプリントの機能を対等に認識させ得るようにすることができる。その場合、製版スタートキーを奥側に配置することで、一般的な古いタイプの印刷機と同じキー配列にすれば、使い慣れたユーザーの混乱を防ぐことができる。その他の構成、構造、それらの変形、あるいは操作等については、図示した実施形態と同様であるので説明を省略する。
【００４１】
【発明の効果】
本発明に係る画像形成装置の操作部構造は、以上説明してきたように、操作パネルの一部をなす着脱式のカバーを外してスタートキーを入れ替えるだけで、複写機と印刷機の各ユーザーに最適なキー配列を任意に選択してキー信号の割り当てが自動で切り替わるようにすることができるという効果がある。
【００４２】
また本発明に係る画像形成装置の操作部構造は、以上説明してきたように、操作パネルから直接取り外したスタートキーを入れ替えるだけで、操作パネルを分解せずに、複写機と印刷機の各ユーザーに最適なキー配列を任意に選択してキー信号の割り当てが自動で切り替わるようにすることができるという効果がある。
【００４３】
さらに本発明に係る画像形成装置の操作部構造は、以上説明してきたように、操作パネルの一部をなす着脱式のユニットを外して入れ替えるだけで、複写機と印刷機の各ユーザーに最適なキー配列を任意に選択してキー信号の割り当てが自動で切り替わるようにすることができるという効果がある。
【図面の簡単な説明】
【図１】複写機としての機能と印刷機としての機能を有する画像形成装置の操作部構造の従来例を示す平面図である。
【図２】本発明に係る画像形成装置の操作部構造の一実施形態の要部を示す分解斜視図である。
【図３】図２の実施形態でカバーを取り外した状態の拡大斜視図（Ａ）、カバー及びスタートキーの正面側斜視図（Ｂ）及びその背面側斜視図である。
【図４】図２の実施形態でスタートキーを入れ替えた状態を示す平面図である。
【図５】図２の実施形態でスタートキーを入れ替える手順を示す斜視図である。
【図６】図２の実施形態でスタートキーを入れ替える手順を示す斜視図である。
【図７】図２の実施形態でスタートキーを入れ替える手順を示す斜視図である。
【図８】図２の実施形態でスタートキーを入れ替える手順を示す斜視図である。
【図９】本発明に係る画像形成装置の操作部構造の他の実施形態の要部を示す分解斜視図（Ａ）、スイッチ部の平面図（Ｂ）、スタートスイッチ１１、１２の配置例の平面図（Ｃ、Ｄ）である。
【図１０】図９の実施形態のスイッチ部の平面図（Ａ）、スタートスイッチ１１、１２の配置例の平面図（Ｂ、Ｃ）である。
【図１１】本発明に係る画像形成装置の操作部構造のさらに他の実施形態の要部を示す斜視図である。
【符号の説明】
１　操作パネル
５　テンキー群
１０　着脱式のカバー
１１　製版スタートキー
１２　プリントスタートキー
１３、１４　円形穴
１３ａ、１４ａ　円形穴の開口縁
１３ｂ、１４ｂ　切り欠き穴部
１５、１６、１５ａ、１６ａ　爪形状部
１７　凹部
１８、１９、１８ａ、１９ａ　穴
２０　凹部
２１、２２　円形凹部
２３　鍔状部
２４　くぼみ
２５　円形凹部の凸部
２６　柱形状部
２６ａ　基点柱形状部
２７、２７ａ　穴
２８　基板
２８ａ　基点部
２９　スイッチ
３０、３１　スイッチ部
３２、３３　文字
３５、３６　デカル貼付用の凹部[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an operation unit structure of an image forming apparatus having a function as a copying machine and a function as a printing machine.
[0002]
Problems to be solved by the prior art and the invention
In an operation unit structure used in an image forming apparatus having both a function as a copying machine and a function as a printing machine, as shown in FIG. 1, two equivalent start keys 2 and 3 for plate making and printing are provided on an operation panel 1. Had been provided. This aims at disseminating such an image forming apparatus having a plurality of functions to users of a copying machine. The illustrated operation panel 1 includes various keys outside the display panel 4 and the numeric keypad group 5. However, such a conventional operation unit structure has various disadvantages as described below.
[0003]
For example, since a general copying machine user has a start key for plate making and a printing key, it is easy to be confused as to which to operate. On the other hand, some professional printing press users commented that the start key was difficult to understand, and pointed out that switching the function with one start key would be confusing. Furthermore, if the function of the start key is switched between plate making and printing by the initial setting operation, it is difficult for the user to understand the setting operation.
[0004]
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-described conventional problems, and has as its object to provide an operation unit structure of an image forming apparatus capable of automatically switching key signal assignment with a simple operation.
[0005]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to achieve the above object, the operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to claim 1 of the present invention is used for an image forming apparatus having both a function as a copying machine and a function as a printing machine. An operation panel structure of the image forming apparatus in which a desired key arrangement can be arbitrarily selected by exchanging the two start keys to automatically switch the assignment of key signals, and the operation panel main body on which the start keys are arranged Is formed as a detachable cover that covers the start key and exposes the button portion.
[0006]
According to a second aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, in the operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to the first aspect, a claw-shaped portion for fixing the operation panel body to the detachable cover is provided. And a hole for receiving the claw-shaped portion is provided in the operation panel body.
[0007]
According to a third aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, in the operation section structure of the image forming apparatus according to the first or second aspect, a gap is formed between the detachable cover and the operation panel body. Characterized in that it is provided with a concave shape portion for disassembly.
[0008]
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, in the operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to third aspects, a part of the operation panel body where the two start keys are provided is provided. Each of the start keys has the same or equivalent shape that can be replaced and mounted.
[0009]
According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, in the operation section structure of the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, the start key has a flange-shaped portion on a peripheral portion, The detachable cover is configured to receive the flange-shaped portion on an inner peripheral surface of a hole for exposing the start key.
[0010]
According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, in the operation section structure of the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, a concave portion is provided on an outer peripheral edge of the start key, and The panel body is provided with a convex portion that can be fitted to the concave portion.
[0011]
According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, in the operation section structure of the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, a function of the start key is indicated on a top surface of the start key. It is characterized in that a display such as a name or pictogram is provided.
[0012]
In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 8 is used for an image forming apparatus having both a function as a copying machine and a function as a printing machine, and by exchanging two start keys for both functions. An operation unit structure of an image forming apparatus that allows a desired key arrangement to be arbitrarily selected to automatically switch a key signal assignment. The start key can be directly attached to and detached from an operation panel main body on which the start key is arranged. It is characterized by becoming.
[0013]
According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, in the operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to the eighth aspect, each of the two start keys has a claw-shaped portion for fixing to the operation panel body. Wherein the operation panel main body is provided with a hole for receiving the claw-shaped portion.
[0014]
According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, in the operation part structure of the image forming apparatus according to the eighth or ninth aspect, a disassembly for forming a gap between the operation panel and the start key is provided. It is characterized in that it is provided with a concave portion for use.
[0015]
According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, in the operation part structure of the image forming apparatus according to any one of the eighth to tenth aspects, a part of the operation panel main body where the two start keys are provided, Each of the start keys has the same or equivalent shape that can be replaced and mounted.
[0016]
According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, in the operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to any one of the eighth to eleventh aspects, a function of the start key is indicated on a top surface of the start key. A display decal such as a name or pictogram is attached.
[0017]
In order to achieve the above object, the present invention is applied to an image forming apparatus having both a function as a copying machine and a function as a printing machine. The operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus in which the assignment of the operation panel can be automatically switched, wherein a part of the operation panel main body is formed as a detachable unit.
[0018]
According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, in the operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to the thirteenth aspect, the unit is selectably provided as two types of exchange units.
[0019]
According to a fifteenth aspect, in order to achieve the above object, in the operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to the thirteenth aspect, two types of the units are provided, and one of the two types of units is used as a standard unit. Is selectably provided as a replacement unit.
[0020]
According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, in the operation part structure of the image forming apparatus according to any one of the thirteenth to fifteenth aspects, the unit is provided with two start keys.
[0021]
According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, in the operation part structure of the image forming apparatus according to any one of the thirteenth to sixteenth aspects, a key name of the start unit is provided on a top surface of the start unit. A display is provided.
[0022]
According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, in the operation part structure of the image forming apparatus according to the sixteenth aspect, the diameters of the two start keys provided in the unit are different. Features.
[0023]
According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, in the operation part structure of the image forming apparatus according to the sixteenth or seventeenth aspect, the diameters of the two start keys are the same.
[0024]
According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, in the operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to the eighteenth aspect, one of the two start keys provided in the unit is a plate making start key, and the other is a print start key. A key having a larger diameter than the print start key.
[0025]
According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, in the operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to the twentieth aspect, the plate making start key is made the same color as the image forming apparatus main body, It is characterized by being arranged on the front side of the image forming apparatus main body.
[0026]
According to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, in the operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to any one of the sixteenth to twentieth aspects, a plate-making start key is provided more than the print start key. It is characterized by being arranged on the back side.
[0027]
According to a twenty-third aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, in the operation part structure of the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to twenty-second aspects, a plurality of columnar portions having the same shape are provided on the bottom surface of the start key. The position of the columnar portion is shifted for each of the two start keys.
[0028]
According to a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, in the operation part structure of the image forming apparatus according to the twenty-third aspect, all the columnar portions having the different positions are provided on a substrate located below the two start keys. A switch is provided corresponding to the above.
[0029]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following, description will be made by assigning common reference numerals to parts common to the related art.
FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing a main part of an embodiment of the operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. In this embodiment, a part of the operation panel 1 is formed as a detachable cover 10, and the cover 10 is removed and the two start keys (the plate making start key 11 and the print start key 12) are exchanged. Each user can arbitrarily select an optimum key arrangement, and the key signal assignment is directly and automatically switched without performing a function switching operation or the like.
[0030]
The cover 10 has a pair of circular holes 13 and 14 of the same shape for exposing the plate making start key 11 and the print start key 12, and fixing claw-shaped portions 15 and 16 are provided at upper and lower ends in the longitudinal direction. In addition, holes 18 and 19 for inserting the claw-shaped portions 15 and 16 are provided in the concave portion 17 for attaching and detaching the cover 10 of the operation panel 1. For this reason, the cover 10 can be attached to and detached from the recess 17 without using screws or the like. In addition, a concave portion 20 is provided at the lower edge in the drawing in the longitudinal direction of the cover 10 so that it can be easily removed with a coin or the like without a tool.
[0031]
FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view (A) with the cover 10 removed, a front perspective view (B) of the cover 10 and the start keys 11 and 12, and a rear perspective view thereof. As shown, a pair of circular recesses 21 and 22 for mounting both start keys 11 and 12 are provided in the recess 17 of the operation panel 1. The start keys 11 and 12, the circular holes 13 and 14 of the cover 10, and the circular recesses 21 and 22 have the same shape, and the start keys 11 and 12 can be mounted on either of the circular recesses 21 and 22 and can be replaced. It is. Each of the start keys 11 and 12 has a flange 23 on the periphery thereof, and a plurality of depressions 24 are provided therein. Correspondingly, convex portions 25 are formed on the outer peripheral edges of the circular concave portions 21 and 22 so that the convex keys 25 can be fitted to the concave portions 24 of the flange portions 23 so that the start keys 11 and 12 do not come off or rotate. In addition, it can be set and held in the correct direction without turning over.
[0032]
Further, two column-shaped portions 26 are provided on the lower surfaces of the start keys 11 and 12, respectively, and a plurality of holes 27 for passing these column-shaped portions 26 are provided in the concave portion 15 of the operation panel 1. In addition, a substrate 28 provided below the concave portion 15 of the operation panel 1 is provided with two switch units 30 and 31 each having four switches 29 arranged at the apexes of a square. The column-shaped portions 26 of the start keys 11 and 12 are shifted by 90 degrees with respect to the characters 32 and 33 on the surface indicating the direction of each key, that is, in parallel with the characters 32 in the plate making start key 11 and in the characters in the print start key 12. 33 are formed at right angles. Therefore, the assignment of the key signal can be automatically switched depending on which of the start keys 11 and 12 is attached to the circular concave portions 21 and 22.
[0033]
For example, in a user who frequently uses printing, such as a school or a leaflet company, as shown in FIG. 4A, the plate making start key 11 is located on the upper side (in the actual arrangement, the rear side), and the print start key 12 is located on the lower side (in the actual illustration). In the arrangement, it should be attached to the front side). On the other hand, a general user may mount the print start key 12 on the upper side and the plate making start key 11 on the lower side as shown in FIG. That is, an optimal key layout may be arbitrarily selected according to the business type, the usage pattern, and the like.
[0034]
In the present embodiment, both the start keys 11 and 12 display the functions by forming characters 32 and 33 on the top surface. Even if the positions of the two start keys 11 and 12 are interchanged, they can be recognized by the difference of the notation. It is like that. The same applies to the case where pictograms, pictures, and the like are used instead of characters.
[0035]
5 to 8 are perspective views showing a procedure for exchanging the start keys 11 and 12. From the state where the print start key 12 is set on the upper side as shown in FIG. 5 and the cover 10 is mounted, the lower end of the cover 10 is lifted by using the concave portion 20 of the cover 10 as shown in FIG. The part 16 is pulled out from the hole 19, and the cover 10 is pulled toward the front side (downward in the drawing) to pull out the claw-shaped part 15 on the upper end side from the hole 18. After the cover 10 is removed as shown in FIG. 7, the start keys 11 and 12 are replaced as shown in FIG. 8, and the cover 10 is mounted in the recess 17 of the operation panel 1 in the reverse procedure and operating direction.
[0036]
FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view showing a main part of another embodiment of the operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, FIG. 10 is a plan view of the switch unit (A), and an example of arrangement of start switches 11 and 12. It is a top view (B, C) of FIG. In the present embodiment, the claw-shaped portions 15a and 16a are provided on the side edge of the cover 10, and the concave portion 17 is also provided with holes 18a and 19a on the side edge. The two start keys 11 and 12 each have a base column-shaped portion 26a between the column-shaped portions 26, that is, at the back of the circular center position, and a hole 27a for passing the same is provided in the concave portion 15, and the switch portions 30 and 31 are provided. Is provided with a base portion 28a at the center of the switch 28 arranged in a square. Note that the arrangement of the switch 28 is shifted by 90 degrees from the previous embodiment in the rotation direction, and the columnar portions 26 of both start keys 11 and 12 are also oblique so as to form 45 degrees with respect to the characters 31 and 32 accordingly. It is arranged in. FIG. 10B has an arrangement corresponding to FIG. 4A, and FIG. 10C has an arrangement corresponding to FIG. 4B. In addition, other configurations, structures, their modifications, operations, and the like are the same as those in the previous embodiment, and thus description thereof is omitted.
[0037]
FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a main part of still another embodiment of the operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. In this embodiment, the two start keys 11 and 12 can be directly attached to and detached from the operation panel 1, and the opening edges 13a and 14a of the circular holes provided directly on the operation panel 1 are directed outward as shown in the figure. It has a slope that opens toward the center, and further has cutout holes 13b and 14b provided in a part thereof, so that the attachment and detachment of the start keys 11 and 12 can be easily performed. The start keys 11 and 12 are provided with claw-shaped portions to be attached to the notched holes 13b and 14b, but are not shown. In the case of the structure of this embodiment, it is desirable to remove the start keys 11 and 12 with a tool such as a screwdriver. Further, in the present embodiment, instead of attaching characters to the start keys 11 and 12, recesses 35 and 36 for attaching decals indicating the names of the start keys 11 and 12 are provided on the operation panel 1, and the decals are provided. The notation can be replaced by replacing the notation. Other basic configurations and structures, their modifications, operations, and the like are the same as in the previous embodiment, and thus description thereof is omitted.
[0038]
Although illustration is omitted, not only the above-described embodiment in which a part of the operation panel 1 is covered but also components other than the board 28 and the switch units 30 and 31 in the above-described embodiment are put together as, for example, a box-shaped detachable unit. , Can be made detachable as a part of the operation panel 1. By shipping these two types of detachable units together with the image forming apparatus, an arbitrary unit can be selected at the time of installation at the place of use, or one of the two types of units can be standardized. A unit may be set in the operation panel 1 in advance, and the other unit may be an exchange unit. In the latter case, a unit known in advance to be unnecessary can be excluded from the package contents as compared with a case where two types of units are bundled.
[0039]
In the case of a unit, the names of the start keys 11 and 12 can be provided on the upper surface of the detachable unit so that printed characters are hardly erased by key operation. Also, for a general user mainly used as a copying machine, the diameters of the two start keys 11 and 12 are made different, for example, one is used as a continuous start key and the other is used as a print start key, and the continuous start key is made larger. By placing the continuous start key in the same color as the main body of the image forming apparatus and in front of the apparatus, the printer can be used as easily as a normal copier. May be used.
[0040]
Also, for a user who is mainly used as a printing machine, it is possible to make the diameters of the two start keys 11 and 12 the same so that the functions of plate making and printing can be recognized equally. In this case, by arranging the plate making start key on the back side, if the key arrangement is the same as that of a general old-type printing press, it is possible to prevent confusion of a familiar user. Other configurations, structures, their modifications, operations, and the like are the same as those in the illustrated embodiment, and thus description thereof is omitted.
[0041]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, the operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention can be provided to each user of the copying machine and the printing machine simply by removing the detachable cover forming a part of the operation panel and replacing the start key. There is an effect that the optimum key arrangement can be arbitrarily selected and the assignment of the key signal can be automatically switched.
[0042]
Further, as described above, the operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention is configured such that each user of the copying machine and the printing machine can simply replace the start key directly removed from the operation panel without disassembling the operation panel. There is an effect that it is possible to arbitrarily select an optimal key arrangement and automatically switch the assignment of key signals.
[0043]
Further, as described above, the operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention is optimal for each user of the copying machine and the printing machine only by removing and replacing the detachable unit forming a part of the operation panel. There is an effect that the key arrangement can be arbitrarily selected and the assignment of the key signal can be automatically switched.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a conventional example of an operation unit structure of an image forming apparatus having a function as a copying machine and a function as a printing machine.
FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a main part of an embodiment of an operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 2 with a cover removed, a front perspective view of a cover and a start key (B), and a rear perspective view thereof.
FIG. 4 is a plan view showing a state in which a start key is replaced in the embodiment of FIG. 2;
FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a procedure for exchanging a start key in the embodiment of FIG. 2;
FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a procedure for exchanging a start key in the embodiment of FIG. 2;
FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a procedure for exchanging a start key in the embodiment of FIG. 2;
FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a procedure for exchanging a start key in the embodiment of FIG. 2;
FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view showing a main part of another embodiment of the operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention (A), a plan view of a switch unit (B), and an arrangement example of start switches 11 and 12. It is a top view (C, D).
10 is a plan view (A) of the switch unit of the embodiment of FIG. 9 and plan views (B and C) of an arrangement example of the start switches 11 and 12;
FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a main part of still another embodiment of the operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
Reference Signs List 1 Operation panel 5 Numeric keypad group 10 Removable cover 11 Plate making start key 12 Print start key 13, 14 Circular hole 13a, 14a Circular hole opening edge 13b, 14b Notch hole 15, 16, 15a, 16a Claw-shaped portion 17 Concave portions 18, 19, 18a, 19a Holes 20 Concave portions 21, 22 Circular concave portions 23 Flange portions 24 Depressions 25 Convex portions of circular concave portions 26 Column-shaped portions 26a Base column-shaped portions 27, 27a Holes 28 Board 28a Base portions 29 Switches 30, 31 Switch part 32, 33 Character 35, 36 Recess for sticking decal

Claims

Used for an image forming apparatus having both a function as a copying machine and a function as a printing machine, and automatically assigns a key signal by arbitrarily selecting a desired key arrangement by exchanging two start keys for both functions. An operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus which can be switched to a part of the operation panel body on which the start key is arranged is formed as a cover that detachably covers the start key and exposes a button part. An operation section structure of the image forming apparatus, characterized in that:

2. The operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the detachable cover is provided with a claw-shaped portion for fixing to the operation panel body, and the operation panel body is provided with a hole for receiving the claw-shaped portion. An operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus, comprising:

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the detachable cover is provided with a disassembled concave portion for forming a gap between the detachable cover and the operation panel body. Operation part structure of the forming device.

4. The operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a portion of the operation panel main body provided with the two start keys has the same or equivalent shape that can be replaced with any of the start keys. Characteristic operation unit structure of image forming apparatus.

5. The operation part structure of the image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the start key has a flange-shaped part on a peripheral part, and an inner peripheral surface of a hole for exposing the start key of the detachable cover. The operation section structure of the image forming apparatus, wherein the operation section receives the flange-shaped section.

6. The operation portion structure of the image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a concave portion is provided on an outer peripheral portion of the start key, and a convex portion capable of being fitted with the concave portion is provided on the operation panel body. An operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus, comprising:

7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a name, a pictogram, or the like indicating a function of the start key is provided on a top surface of the start key. Operation unit structure of the device.

Used for an image forming apparatus having both a function as a copying machine and a function as a printing machine, and automatically assigns a key signal by arbitrarily selecting a desired key arrangement by exchanging two start keys for both functions. An operation part structure of the image forming apparatus, wherein the start key is directly detachable from an operation panel main body on which the start key is arranged.

9. The operation part structure of the image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein each of said two start keys is provided with a claw-shaped part for fixing to said operation panel main body, and said operation panel main body has a hole for receiving said claw-shaped part. An operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus, which is provided.

10. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the operation panel is provided with a disassembled concave portion for forming a gap between the operation key and the start key. Operation part structure.

11. The operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein a portion of the operation panel main body provided with the two start keys has the same or equivalent shape that can be replaced by any of the start keys. Characteristic operation unit structure of image forming apparatus.

12. The operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein a display decal such as a name or a pictogram indicating a function of the start key is attached to a top surface of the start key. Operation section structure of the image forming apparatus.

An operation unit structure of an image forming apparatus which is used for an image forming apparatus having both a function as a copying machine and a function as a printing machine, and which can arbitrarily select a desired key arrangement and automatically switch assignment of key signals. An operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus, wherein a part of the operation panel main body is formed as a detachable unit.

14. The operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the unit is selectably provided as two types of exchange units.

14. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein two types of the units are provided, one of the two types of units is a standard unit, and the other is selectably provided as a replacement unit. Operation part structure.

16. The operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the unit includes two start keys.

17. The operation unit structure of an image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein a key name of the start unit is displayed on a top surface of the start unit. .

18. The operation unit structure of an image forming apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the diameters of the two start keys provided in the unit are different.

18. The operation unit structure of an image forming apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the diameters of the two start keys are the same.

20. The operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus according to claim 18, wherein one of the two start keys provided in the unit is a plate making start key, the other is a print start key, and the plate making start is larger in diameter than the print start key. An operation section structure of the image forming apparatus, characterized in that:

21. The image forming apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the plate making start key has the same color as the image forming apparatus main body, and is arranged on the front side of the image forming apparatus main body with respect to the print start key. Operation part structure of the forming device.

21. The operation of the image forming apparatus according to claim 16, wherein a plate-making start key is arranged on the back side of the image forming apparatus main body with respect to the print start key. Part structure.

23. The operation section structure of the image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of columnar sections having the same shape are provided on a bottom surface of the start key, and a position of the columnar section is shifted for each of the two start keys. An operation unit structure of the image forming apparatus, wherein the operation unit is arranged.

24. The image forming apparatus according to claim 23, wherein switches are arranged on the substrate located below the two start keys so as to correspond to all the columnar portions having the different positions. Operation unit structure of the device.