JP2006208956A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming apparatus capable of completely securing visibility and operability related to a control panel also for a handicapped person using a wheelchair. <P>SOLUTION: The image forming apparatus is equipped with: a control panel driving part selectively changing the control panel 18 to a first position where the control panel 18 forms a predetermined angle to a horizontal surface and a second position where it forms an angle larger than that of the first position; an angle sensor 130 detecting whether the control panel 18 exists at the first position or the second position; and a function control part 164 actuating an automatic clearing function when second time longer than 1st time being the time required until the automatic clearing function is actuated elapses when the control panel 18 exists at the second position and in the case the control panel 18 exists at the first position, and actuating the automatic clearing function by restoring the time required until the automatic clearing function is actuated to the first time in the case the control panel 18 is restored from the second position to the first position. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus such as a copier or a multifunction peripheral having functions of a copier and a printer and a facsimile machine.

  2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, image forming apparatuses such as copiers and multi-function machines that have functions of a copier and a copier in addition to functions of a printer and a facsimile machine have been widely used. These image forming apparatuses are installed on the floor for use in offices and the like, and it is necessary for an operator who is a healthy person to easily operate while standing on the floor. An operation panel with a panel is installed at a high position.

On the other hand, with the recent advancement of disabled people in society, the frequency of operating the operation panel at a low position in a wheelchair is increasing. For this reason, when the operation panel is operated while sitting in a wheelchair, the conventional image forming apparatus makes it difficult to see the panel surface because the operation panel surface is viewed at an inclined angle. Proposals have been made to improve visibility of the operation panel by making it possible to change the position of the viewpoint according to the position of the viewpoint so that the operation panel surface does not become difficult for both the normal and the disabled (see, for example, Patent Documents). 1).
JP 11-119498 A

  Although it is possible to change the angle of the operation panel according to the position of the operator's viewpoint in this way, the visibility with respect to the operation panel is improved as compared with the conventional one, but in the state of sitting in a wheelchair, the operation panel In some cases, it takes a longer time to operate the operation panel than that of a healthy person. In such a case, the auto-clear function may be activated before the operation of the operation panel is completed, and the previously set input value may return to the initial setting value, which improves the visibility for disabled persons using a wheelchair. However, it was difficult to say that the operability was improved.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of sufficiently ensuring visibility and operability for an operation panel for both a healthy person and a handicapped person. .

  In order to achieve the above object, an invention according to claim 1 is an image forming apparatus provided with an operation panel for setting an input value related to image formation and having an accompanying function related to image formation, wherein An operation panel drive unit that allows the panel to be selectively changed between a first position that forms a predetermined angle with respect to a horizontal plane and a second position that forms an angle larger than the first position; and When in the second position, when the operation panel is in the first position, the associated function when a second time longer than the first time, which is the time until the associated function is activated, has elapsed. When the operation panel is returned from the second position to the first position, the time until the associated function is activated is set to the first time. Let me return It is characterized in that a function control unit for actuating the marrow function.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect, the input function related to the image formation in which the incidental function related to the image formation is set to a value different from the initial setting value on the operation panel is input. It is characterized by an auto-clear function that automatically returns to the initial set value when a predetermined time later passes.

  The invention according to claim 3 is the time according to claim 2, wherein, when the operation panel is in the second position, the time until the associated function is activated when the operation panel is in the first position. When the second time longer than the first time elapses, the incidental function is activated or the incidental function is not activated, and the operation panel is returned from the second position to the first position. In this case, the first function mode for operating the associated function by returning the time until the associated function is activated to the first time, and the first function mode even when the operation panel is in the second position. And a function mode selection unit that selectively selects the second function mode in which the auto-clear function is activated when the same first time as that in the position is elapsed. It is said.

  According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided the driving source according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the operation panel drive unit selectively moves the operation panel to a first position and a second position. The operation panel is moved from the first position to the second position, while the operation panel is moved to the second position, and a predetermined time elapses. A drive source control unit for returning the operation panel from the second position to the first position when the image forming operation is not started in spite of being performed or when a predetermined time has elapsed after the end of the image forming operation; And a time setting unit for setting and changing the predetermined time until the operation panel is returned from the second position to the first position.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, when the operation panel is in the second position, the incidental function related to image formation is activated when a second time longer than that in the first position has elapsed. Alternatively, since the incidental function is not activated, the incidental function related to image formation is activated before the input operation on the operation panel is completed, and the input value previously set on the operation panel is the initial setting value. The situation where the input operation such as returning to the display is invalid is effectively avoided, and the operability for the disabled person who uses the wheelchair is improved, and the operation panel is moved from the second position to the first position. In the case of returning to the position, the time until the associated function is activated is restored to the first time and the associated function is activated, which may cause inconvenience even when a healthy person operates the operation panel. Lost Result, it is possible to ensure a sufficient visibility and operability for the operation panel also for handicapped for a healthy person.

  According to the invention of claim 2, when the operation panel is in the second position, the auto-clear function is activated when a second time longer than that in the first position has elapsed, or Since the auto clear function will not be activated, the auto clear function will be activated before the input operation on the operation panel is completed, and the input value previously set on the operation panel may return to the initial setting value. The operability for the operation panel is improved even for a disabled person who is effectively avoided and uses a wheelchair, and when the operation panel returns from the second position to the first position, the time until the auto clear function is activated. Since the auto-clear function is activated after returning to the first time, there is no inconvenience even when the healthy person operates the operation panel. It is possible to sufficiently ensure the visibility and operability for the very operation panel.

  According to the invention of claim 3, the first function mode and the second function mode can be selected. Therefore, when the operation panel is in the second position, the inconvenience is not caused even by a disabled person. The time required to change the time until the auto clear function is activated by selecting the function mode 2 becomes unnecessary. As a result, the work time can be shortened even for a small amount of time. The visibility and operability with respect to the operation panel can be sufficiently ensured for the handicapped person.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, when the predetermined time has elapsed after the operation panel is moved to the second position, the predetermined time elapses when the image forming operation is not started or after the end of the image forming operation. Since the time until the operation panel is automatically returned to the first position can be changed when the time has elapsed, the operation panel is automatically returned to the first position before the operation is completed. As a result, the operability of the operation panel can be improved even for a disabled person who uses a wheelchair, so that the visibility and operability of the operation panel can be sufficiently ensured for both a healthy person and a disabled person.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating an external configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating an internal configuration thereof. In these drawings, an image forming apparatus 10 constitutes a tandem type color copier, and is provided under a document reading unit 12 for reading a document image and a document reading unit 12 to read the read document image. A main body 14 formed on the recording paper, a recording paper discharge section 16 that is disposed on the left side of the main body 14 and on which an image is formed on the main body 12, and a front side of the upper end of the main body 14 And the panel drive button 20 disposed in the vicinity of the operation panel 18 in the main body 14.

  The document reading unit 12 is arranged so as to be movable along the back surface of the contact glass 24 at a position facing the contact glass 24 at the top of the main body unit 12, a document holder 22 that can be opened and closed, a contact glass 24 on which the document is placed. And an optical system unit 26 having an installed scanner. An automatic document feeder 28 that is integrated with the document retainer 22 is disposed above the document retainer 22.

  The main body 14 is disposed in the lower part of the housing 30, and is provided in a paper feed cassette 32 for storing recording paper, and in the center of the housing 30, and is obtained by reading the document reading unit 12. Based on the image forming unit 34 for forming an image on the recording paper, the first transport path 36 for transporting the recording paper fed from the paper feed cassette 32 to the image forming unit 34, and the left part in the housing 30. A fixing unit 38 that is disposed and performs fixing processing on the recording paper on which an image is formed by the image forming unit 34, and a second transport path 40 that transports the recording paper on which the fixing processing has been performed to the recording paper discharge unit 16. And.

  The paper feed cassette 32 can be replenished with recording paper by being pulled out of the housing 30, and includes a plurality of cassettes 42, 44, 46, and 48 in which recording papers of different sizes are stored. One of the cassettes is selected corresponding to the document size, and the recording paper stored in the selected cassette is fed out to the first transport path 36 side by sheet by the paper feed roller.

  The image forming unit 34 includes a first image forming unit 50 that forms a black toner image, a second image forming unit 52 that forms a cyan toner image, and a third image forming unit that forms a magenta toner image. A unit 54, a fourth image forming unit 56 for forming a yellow toner image, and a transfer conveyance unit 58 for transferring the toner image formed by each image forming unit onto a recording sheet are provided.

  Each of the image forming units 50, 52, 54, and 56 includes a photosensitive drum 60, a charging unit 62 disposed so as to face the peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 60, and a downstream side of the charging unit 62. An exposure unit 64 disposed facing the peripheral surface of the drum 60, a developing unit 66 disposed downstream of the exposure unit 64 and facing the peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 60, and the developing unit 66 And a cleaning portion 68 disposed opposite to the peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 60. In the developing unit 66 of each image forming unit, a predetermined toner corresponding to black toner, cyan toner, magenta toner, and yellow toner is stored in each toner box.

  The transfer conveying unit 58 includes a driving roller 70, a driven roller 72, a transfer belt 74 disposed across the driving roller 70 and the driven roller 72, and a developing unit 66 in the photosensitive drum 60 of each image forming unit. Four transfer rollers 76 are provided at a downstream position so as to be capable of being pressed through the transfer belt 74. In the transfer conveyance unit 58, the recording paper conveyed from the first conveyance path 36 is electrostatically placed on a transfer belt 74 that rotates counterclockwise as shown by a driving roller 70 that is driven to rotate by a drive motor (not shown). The toner image is sucked and conveyed downstream, and the toner image is transferred to the recording paper at the position of the transfer roller 76 of each image forming unit.

  The first transport path 36 transports the recording paper fed from the paper feed cassette 32 to the transfer transport unit 58 side, and includes a plurality of transport roller pairs 78 disposed at predetermined positions, and a transfer transport unit. 58, and is provided with a registration roller pair 80 for taking a timing of an image forming operation and a paper feeding operation in the image forming unit 34.

  A registration sensor (not shown) constituted by a photo interrupter or the like is provided in front of the registration roller pair 80. When the leading edge of the recording paper is conveyed to a position where it contacts the registration roller pair 80, the registration sensor On the basis of the output signal, the electromagnetic clutch is disengaged, the rotational driving of the conveyance roller pair 78 is stopped, and the conveyance of the recording paper is temporarily stopped.

  The fixing unit 38 performs a fixing process by heating the recording paper on which the toner image is transferred by the image forming unit 34. The fixing unit 38 is pressed against the fixing roller 84 heated by a built-in heater and the fixing roller 84. And a pressure roller 86 disposed.

  The second transport path 40 transports the recording paper that has been subjected to the fixing process by the fixing unit 38 to the recording paper discharge unit 16, and includes a plurality of transport roller pairs 88 disposed at predetermined positions and an outlet. A discharge roller pair 90 is disposed on the side. The recording paper discharge unit 16 sequentially accumulates the recording papers that have been transported to the second transport path 40 and have undergone the fixing process.

  The operation panel 18 has a first position (a position in a lying state) that forms a predetermined angle with respect to a horizontal plane that is a floor surface at the position of the recessed space 94 of the frame 92 that constitutes a part of the housing 30. It is arranged so as to be selectively changeable to a second position (a position where it rises at a predetermined angle) that forms an angle larger than the first position, and is arranged at a substantially central position. The liquid crystal display unit 96, the numeric keypad 98 disposed adjacent to the right side of the liquid crystal display unit 96, the start button 100 disposed adjacent to the right side of the numeric keypad 98, and the liquid crystal display unit 96 A function mode selection button 102 disposed adjacent to the left side and a dwell time setting button 104 disposed adjacent to the upper side of the function mode selection button 102 are provided.

  The panel drive button 20 includes an activation button 20a and a return button 20b. When the activation button 20a is pressed, the operation panel 18 automatically moves from the first position to the second position, and returns. By pressing the button 20b, the operation panel 18 is automatically returned from the second position to the first position. Note that the operation panel 18 is moved when the copying operation (image forming operation) has not yet started even though a predetermined time has elapsed after being moved to the second position, or when the copying operation (image forming operation) is started. ) Is automatically returned to the first position when a predetermined time has elapsed.

  The time during which the operation panel 18 stays at the second position when returning automatically (i.e., when returning automatically because the copying operation has not started, the operation panel 18 has been moved from the first position). In the case of automatic recovery after the completion of the copying operation, the elapsed time after the copying operation is called the dwell time of the operation panel 18 in the present invention. A configuration for selectively changing the operation panel 18 between the first position and the second position will be described later.

  The liquid crystal display unit 96 constitutes a touch panel for setting image forming conditions by touching a fingertip, a paper setting unit for setting the type of recording paper, a magnification setting unit for setting a copy magnification, and the like. A screen is displayed in which a density setting section for setting the density, a paper processing setting section for setting staple processing and punch hole processing, and a function setting section for setting various functions such as duplex printing and divided printing are displayed. The

  The image forming conditions set in the liquid crystal display unit 96 are set to initial setting values determined in advance for each setting unit. For example, the paper setting unit is set to “automatic paper” which is set to a recording paper size corresponding to the document size, the magnification setting unit is set to “100%” which is the same size as the document size, and the density setting unit is set to “original”. “Auto density” is set to correspond to the density of the image.

  These conditions can be changed to a predetermined input value by touching each setting unit. However, the copying operation (not yet performed after the predetermined time has elapsed after the setting is changed to the predetermined input value). When the image forming operation is not started, or when a predetermined time has passed after the copying operation (image forming operation) is completed, the auto-clear function is activated to automatically return the input value to the initial setting value. To do.

  Time until this auto-clear function is activated (that is, the elapsed time after the input operation for changing the setting to the predetermined input value is performed in the case of automatic return because the copying operation has not started. In the case of automatically returning when the copying operation ends, the elapsed time after the copying operation ends) is called a function realization time (auto clear time) in the present invention.

  In the present invention, the second time that is the function realization time when the operation panel 18 is at the second position is longer than the first time that is the function realization time when the operation panel 18 is at the first position by a predetermined time. Therefore, the auto-clear function is activated before the input operation on the operation panel 18 is completed, and the input value previously set on the operation panel 18 is restored to the initial setting value. Therefore, the operability for the operation panel 18 is improved even for a disabled person who uses a wheelchair. Further, when the operation panel 18 returns from the second position to the first position, the function realization time set to be longer than the first time by a predetermined time is returned to the first time. Inconvenience does not occur even when a healthy person operates the operation panel.

  The numeric keypad 98 is for setting the number of copies and the start button 100 is for instructing the start of the copying operation. When the operation panel 18 is in the second position, the function mode selection button 102 is longer than the first time, which is the time until the auto clear function is activated when the operation panel 18 is in the first position. When the time 2 has elapsed, the auto-clear function is activated, and when the operation panel 18 is returned from the second position to the first position, the time until the auto-clear function is activated is restored to the first time. The first function mode in which the auto clear function is activated and the auto clear function is activated when the same first time has elapsed even when the operation panel 18 is in the second position. This is for alternatively selecting the second function mode to be activated.

  The residence time setting button 104 is used to select and set one of the preset residence times of the operation panel 18. As described above, since the residence time can be set and changed by operating the residence time setting button 104, the operation panel 18 at the second position is moved to the first position before the input operation on the operation panel 18 is completed. Therefore, it is possible to improve the operability of the operation panel 18 for a handicapped person using a wheelchair.

  FIG. 3 illustrates an example of the configuration of the operation panel drive unit 110 that can be selectively changed between a first position where the operation panel 18 is lying down and a second position where the operation panel 18 is raised at a predetermined angle. It is the schematic for doing. As shown in FIGS. 3A to 3C, the operation panel driving unit 110 extends coaxially in the left-right direction on both side surfaces of the front end portion of the operation panel 18, and forms a part of the housing 30. The shaft body 112, 114 is rotatably attached to 92 (FIG. 1), and a drive source 116 formed of a stepping motor for applying a rotational drive force to the one shaft body 112. The rotational force of the drive source 116 is transmitted to the shaft body 112 when the gear 120 provided on the rotation drive shaft 118 is engaged with the gear 122 provided on the shaft body 112, thereby causing the operation panel 18 to move. The shaft bodies 112 and 114 can be turned around.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 3B, the operation panel 18 has a first position that forms an angle θ1 (including the case where θ1 is 0 °) with respect to the same horizontal plane H as the floor surface, As shown in FIG. 3C, the operation panel 18 is driven with respect to the second position that forms an angle θ2 with respect to the horizontal plane H (including the case where θ2> θ1 and θ2 is 90 °). It is rotated by applying a rotational driving force from the source 116, and is set to the first position shown in FIG. 3B, which is an initial setting position when the operator is a healthy person, and the disabled person uses the wheelchair by the operator. Is set to the second position shown in FIG.

  1 shows the image forming apparatus 10 when the operation panel 18 is in the first position shown in FIG. 3B, the operation panel 18 is in the second position shown in FIG. FIG. 4 shows the image forming apparatus 10 in the case shown in FIG. The operation panel 18 is set to the first position shown in FIG. 3B, which is the initial setting position when the power switch (not shown) is turned on, and is operated by operating the start button 20a. The second position shown in 3 (c) is set. In this second position, the rising angle (angle θ2 in FIG. 3B) is adjusted by adjusting the operation time of the activation button 20a according to the sitting height of the disabled person using the wheelchair.

  Further, one shaft body 112 constituting the operation panel drive unit 110 constitutes a position detection unit for detecting whether the operation panel 18 is in the first position or the second position. An angle sensor 130 is attached. The angle sensor 130 is composed of a variable resistor such as a potentiometer for detecting the rotation angle of the operation panel 18. When the operation panel 18 is rotated, the rotation axis of the angle sensor 130 is interlocked to cause resistance. The value changes, and it is detected whether the operation panel 18 is in the first position or the second position based on the changing resistance value.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram for explaining a control configuration of the image forming apparatus 10. That is, the image forming apparatus 10 includes a control unit 140 that controls the image forming operation. The control unit 140 includes a CPU that executes arithmetic processing, a ROM that stores processing programs and data, and a microcomputer that includes a RAM that temporarily stores data. The control unit 140 is set on the operation panel 18. Control each operation in the document reading unit 12, the image forming unit 34, the first conveyance path 36, the fixing unit 38, and the second conveyance path 40 based on the image forming conditions such as the recording paper size, magnification, density, and number of copies. To do. In addition, the control unit 140 includes a drive source 116 that applies a rotational driving force to the operation panel 18, an image memory 142 that stores image data read by the image reading unit 12, and a screen displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 96. Are connected to a display memory 144 for storing the contents of the timer and a timer 146 for counting time.

  The control unit 140 includes a panel setting determination unit 150, a drive source control unit 152, a position determination unit 154, a function mode determination unit 156, a function realization time change unit 158, a time determination unit 160, an input operation determination unit 162, and a function. Each function realization unit includes a control unit 164, an image formation instruction determination unit 166, and an image formation control unit 168.

  Here, the panel setting determination unit 150 determines whether the operation panel 18 is instructed to be set to the first position or to be instructed to be set to the second position by operating the panel drive button 20. is there.

  The drive source control unit 152 controls the operation of the drive source 116 that applies a rotational driving force to the operation panel 18, and the operation panel 18 is moved to the first position by operating the start button 20a of the panel drive button 20. The operation panel 18 at the second position is returned to the first position by operating the return button 20b while being moved from the first position to the second position. Further, the drive source control unit 152 is used when a copying operation (image forming operation) is not started even though a predetermined time has elapsed after the operation panel 18 is moved to the second position, or when the copying operation is performed. When a predetermined time has elapsed after the completion of (image forming operation), the operation panel 18 at the second position is returned to the first position.

  The position determination unit 154 is at the first position where the operation panel 18 is in a fallen state due to the resistance value of the angle sensor 130 that changes in accordance with the rotation angle of the operation panel 18 or is raised at a predetermined angle. It is discriminate | determined whether it exists in the 2nd position used as a state. That is, for example, the position determination unit 152 determines that the operation panel 18 is in the second position when the resistance value of the angle sensor 130 exceeds a predetermined value, and the resistance value of the angle sensor 130 is equal to or less than the predetermined value. It is determined that the operation panel 18 is at the first position. In addition, since the 2nd position of the operation panel 18 is adjusted according to a disabled person's sitting height using a wheelchair, the resistance value of the angle sensor 130 for discriminating that it is in the 2nd position is the angle range to be adjusted. Set in consideration.

  The function mode discriminating unit 156 has a first time longer than the first time which is a time until the auto clear function is activated when the operation panel 18 is in the second position and when the operation panel 18 is in the first position. When the time 2 has elapsed, the auto-clear function is activated, and when the operation panel 18 is returned from the second position to the first position, the time until the auto-clear function is activated is restored to the first time. When the first function mode for operating the auto clear function is selected or when the operation panel 18 is in the second position, the same first time has elapsed as in the first position. It is determined whether or not the second function mode for enabling the auto clear function is selected.

  The function realization time setting unit 158 operates the function realization time (auto clear time) until the auto clear function is activated when the operation panel 18 is in the second position when the first function mode is set. The setting is changed to a second time that is longer by a predetermined time than the first time that is the function realization time when the panel 18 is in the first position. The function realization time setting unit 158 is a second function realization time when the operation panel 18 is in the second position when the operation panel 18 is returned from the second position to the first position. From the time, the function is returned to the first time, which is the function realization time in the first position.

  The time discriminating unit 160 counts the time with the timer 146 so that the copying operation (image forming operation) is not executed for the elapsed time after the setting is changed to an input value different from the initial setting value on the operation panel 18 ( It is determined whether or not the function realization time has elapsed in a state in which the start button 100 is not operated), and whether or not the elapsed time after the completion of the copying operation (image forming operation) has passed the function realization time. Is. Further, the time discriminating unit 160 counts the time with the timer 146 so that the operation panel 18 stays at the second position when the operation panel 18 is automatically returned from the second position to the first position. It is determined whether or not the time has passed a set value by operating the dwell time setting button 104.

  The input operation determination unit 162 determines whether or not an input operation of a predetermined input value has been performed on the operation panel 18. Whether or not this input operation has been performed can be determined based on, for example, an input signal generated during the input operation.

  The function control unit 164 activates the auto clear function. That is, when the function realization time has passed without the copying operation (image forming operation) being performed after the setting change on the operation panel 18 to an input value different from the initial setting value, or the copying operation ( When the elapsed time after the completion of the (image forming operation) exceeds the function realization time, the input value on the operation panel 18 is automatically returned to the initial set value.

  In other words, the function control unit 164 is configured such that when the first function mode is selected by operating the function mode selection button 102, the operation panel 18 is in the first position when the operation panel 18 is in the second position. The input value on the operation panel 18 when the second time, which is the function realization time set to be longer than the first time, which is the function realization time in the position of When the operation panel 18 is returned from the second position to the first position, the function realization time is returned to the first time and the input value on the operation panel 18 is set to the initial setting value. On the other hand, when the second function mode is selected by operating the function mode selection button 102, even when the operation panel 18 is in the second position, the same function as that in the first position is used. When realized The input value of the operation panel 18 when the first time has elapsed it is returned to the initial setting value is.

  The image formation instruction determination unit 166 determines whether or not an instruction for forming an image on a recording sheet has been issued by determining whether or not the start button 100 is turned on. The image formation control unit 168 is configured to form an image on a recording sheet based on the image data stored in the image memory 142 by operating the image forming unit 34 and the like.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining a first operation example when an image is formed on a recording sheet in the image forming apparatus 10. In this operation example, a case where the copying operation (image forming operation) is executed by setting an input value different from the initial setting value while the operation panel 18 at the first position is moved to the second position will be described. To do.

  First, the panel setting determination unit 150 determines whether or not a setting instruction has been given to the second position by operating the activation button 20a to move the operation panel 18 at the first position to the second position. (Step S1). If the determination in step S1 is affirmed, the drive source 116 is driven and controlled by the drive source control unit 152, so that the operation panel 18 moves from the first position to the second position (step S3).

  Next, whether or not the operation panel 18 is in the second position is determined by the position determination unit 154 (step S5). If the determination in step S5 is affirmed, the function mode determination unit 156 determines whether or not the first function mode is selected by operating the function mode selection button 102 (step S7).

  If the determination in step S7 is affirmative, the function realization time until the auto clear function is activated when the operation panel 18 is in the second position is determined by the function realization time setting unit 158. The setting is changed to a second time that is longer by a predetermined time than the first time in the position (step S9).

  Next, the time determination unit 160 determines whether or not the time counted by the timer 146 after the operation panel 18 has moved to the second position has passed the function realization time set and changed in step S9 ( Step S11). If the determination in step S11 is negative, the input operation determination unit 162 determines whether or not an input operation has been performed on the operation panel 18 (step S13). If the determination in step S13 is affirmed, the time determination unit 160 determines whether or not the dwell time of the operation panel 18 at the second position has elapsed (step S15).

  If the determination in step S15 is negative, the image formation instruction determination unit 166 determines whether or not an image formation instruction has been issued (step S17). If the determination in step S17 is affirmative, the image forming control unit 168 drives and controls the image forming unit 34 and the like to form an image on the recording paper (step S19).

  If the determination in step S1 is negative, the process waits until the determination is affirmed. If the determination in step S5 is negative, the process proceeds to step S3 and subsequent steps are executed. If the determination in step S7 is negative, the process proceeds to step S11 and subsequent steps are executed. If the determination in step S11 is affirmative, the auto-clear function is activated and the input value on the operation panel 18 returns to the initial set value, so that the initial purpose cannot be achieved, and the image forming operation is terminated. Will do.

  If the determination in step S13 is negative, the process proceeds to step S11 and subsequent steps are executed. If the determination in step S15 is affirmative, the operation panel 18 automatically returns to the first position. (Step S21). In this case, the image forming operation is terminated because the initial purpose cannot be achieved. If the determination in step S17 is negative, the process waits until the determination is affirmed.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining a second operation example when an image is formed on recording paper in the image forming apparatus 10. In this operation example, a case where the copying operation (image forming operation) is executed by setting an input value different from the initial setting value while the operation panel 18 in the second position is moved to the first position will be described. To do.

  First, the panel setting determination unit 150 determines whether or not a setting instruction has been given to the first position by operating the return button 20b to move the operation panel 18 at the second position to the first position. (Step S51). If the determination in step S51 is affirmed, the drive source 116 is driven and controlled by the drive source control unit 152, so that the operation panel 18 moves from the second position to the first position (step S53).

  Next, the position determination unit 154 determines whether or not the operation panel 18 is in the first position (step S55). If the determination in step S55 is affirmed, the function realization time until the auto clear function is activated by the function realization time setting unit 158 is the function realization time when the operation panel 18 is in the first position. The setting is changed (returned) at time 1 (step S57).

  Next, the time determination unit 160 determines whether or not the time counted by the timer 146 after the operation panel 18 has moved to the first position has passed the function realization time set and changed in step S57 ( Step S59). If the determination in step S59 is negative, the input operation determination unit 162 determines whether or not an input operation has been performed on the operation panel 18 (step S61).

  If the determination in step S61 is affirmative, the image formation instruction determination unit 166 determines whether or not an image formation instruction has been issued (step S63). If the determination in step S63 is affirmative, the image forming control unit 168 controls the drive of the image forming unit 34 and the like, and an image is formed on the recording paper (step S65).

  If the determination in step S51 is negative, the process waits until the determination is positive. If the determination in step S55 is negative, the process proceeds to step S53 and the subsequent steps are executed. If the determination in step S59 is affirmative, the auto-clear function is activated and the input value on the operation panel 18 returns to the initial set value, so that the initial purpose cannot be achieved, and the image forming operation is terminated. Will do. If the determination in step S61 is negative, the process proceeds to step S59 and the subsequent steps are executed. If the determination in step S63 is negative, the process waits until the determination is affirmed.

  The image forming apparatus 10 of the present invention is configured as shown in the above embodiment, and when the operation panel 18 is in the second position, when a second time longer than that in the first position has elapsed. Since the auto-clear function is activated, the auto-clear function is activated before the input operation on the operation panel 18 is completed, and the input value previously set on the operation panel 18 returns to the initial setting value. The operability for the operation panel 18 is improved even for a disabled person who is effectively avoided and uses a wheelchair. When the operation panel 18 returns from the second position to the first position, the auto-clear function is activated. Since the time is returned to the first time and the auto clear function is activated, there is no inconvenience even when the healthy person operates the operation panel. Also it is possible to sufficiently ensure the visibility and the operability with respect to the operation panel for disabled persons.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to the thing of the said embodiment, For example, the various deformation | transformation aspects as described below can be employ | adopted as needed.

  (1) In the above embodiment, the operation panel drive unit 110 for selectively changing the operation panel 18 between the first position and the second position is a drive composed of the shaft bodies 112 and 114 and the stepping motor. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as the driving source 116, other means such as a solenoid can be used instead of the stepping motor. The operation panel drive unit 110 may be manually operated, and can be realized by the shaft bodies 112 and 114 and the oil damper disposed on the back surface of the operation panel 18. Moreover, it is realizable not by the structure which rotates the operation panel 18 around the shaft bodies 112 and 114 but by the structure which slides the operation panel 18 on a curved-surface base.

  (2) Although the angle sensor 130 detects whether the operation panel 18 is in the first position or the second position in the above embodiment, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, an optical sensor is provided at a location to be the first position and a location to be the second position, and the optical sensor detects whether the operation panel 18 is at the first position or the second position. You may do it. In addition, a micro switch or the like is provided at the position to be the first position and the position to be the second position, and the operation panel 18 is moved to the first position by pressing the micro switch by the operation panel 18. It is also possible to detect whether it is in the second position.

  (3) In the above embodiment, the function realizing time, which is the time until the auto clear function for automatically returning the input value on the operation panel 18 to the initial set value, is activated, the operation panel 18 is in the second position. In some cases, the copy operation (image forming operation) has not yet started even though the predetermined time has elapsed after the setting is changed to the predetermined input value, and the copying operation (image forming operation) is completed. After that, when a predetermined time has elapsed, the length is longer than that in the first position, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when the operation panel 18 is in the second position and the function realization time is changed to a predetermined input value, the copying operation (image forming operation) is still started even though the predetermined time has elapsed. Only when it is not done, it may be longer than when it is in the first position.

  (4) In the above embodiment, the accompanying function related to image formation is an auto-clear function that automatically restores the input value on the operation panel 18 set to a value different from the initial setting value to the initial setting value. However, it is not limited to this. For example, an accompanying function related to image formation is a sleep function that saves power by turning off the power except for a part of the operation system when a predetermined time elapses after the copying operation (image forming operation) ends. A preheating function that saves power by lowering the temperature of a heat source such as a fixing unit when a predetermined time elapses after the copying operation (image forming operation) is completed may be used. As described above, even if the incidental function related to image formation is a function other than the auto clear function such as the sleep function or the preheat function, the operation panel 18 stops functioning and the input value set earlier is the initial set value. Since the input operation such as returning to the state becomes invalid, the same effect as the auto clear function can be obtained by applying the configuration of the present invention.

  (5) In the above embodiment, the function control unit 162 indicates the function realization time until an accompanying function such as an auto-clear function related to image formation is activated when the operation panel 18 is in the second position. The length 18 is longer than that in the first position, but is not limited to this. For example, the function control unit 162 may prevent an accompanying function such as an auto-clear function related to image formation from operating when the operation panel 18 is in the second position. That is, in the case of an auto-clear function that automatically restores the input value on the operation panel 18 to the initial setting value, it can be executed by controlling the operation of the display operation driving unit of the liquid crystal display unit 96.

  (6) In the above embodiment, when the predetermined stay time has elapsed after the operation panel 18 is moved to the second position, the image forming operation is not started, or the image forming operation is finished. After that, when a predetermined residence time has elapsed, the operation panel 18 is returned from the second position to the first position. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when the predetermined stay time has elapsed after the operation panel 18 has been moved to the second position, the image formation operation has not started, or the predetermined stay time has elapsed after the image formation operation has ended. Even in such a case, the operation panel 18 may not be automatically returned from the second position to the first position. In this case, the residence time setting button 104 is not necessary. In the above embodiment, the residence time can be set and changed by operating the residence time setting button 104. However, this residence time can be a fixed value.

  (7) In the above embodiment, the first function mode and the second function mode are selected by operating the function mode selection button 102. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the first function mode can always be set. In this case, the function mode selection button 102 is not necessary.

  (8) In the above embodiment, after detecting that the operation panel 18 is in the second position, the function realization time until an associated function such as an auto clear function related to image formation is activated is changed. However, it is not limited to this. For example, the function realization time can be set and changed by operating the panel drive button 20.

  (9) In the above embodiment, the image forming apparatus 10 constitutes a tandem type color copying machine, but is not limited thereto. For example, it may be a color copier having a structure having only one photosensitive drum, or a monochrome copier that forms an image in a single color. In addition to a function as a copying machine, it may be a multifunction machine having a function as a printer and a function as a facsimile machine, or may be a facsimile machine structured to be installed on the floor.

1 is a perspective view schematically showing an external configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing an internal configuration of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. 1. 2A and 2B are diagrams for describing a configuration example of an operation panel drive unit of the image forming apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1, in which FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a main part of the operation panel, and FIG. FIG. 4C is a side view when the operation panel is in the second position where the operation panel is raised at a predetermined angle. FIG. 6 is a perspective view schematically showing an external configuration of the image forming apparatus when the operation panel is in a second position where the operation panel is raised at a predetermined angle. FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining a control configuration of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. 1. 3 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. 1. 3 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. 1.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Image forming apparatus 18 Operation panel 20 Panel drive button 102 Function mode selection button (function mode selection part)
104 Residence time setting button (Time setting section)
110 Operation panel drive unit 130 Angle sensor (position detection unit)
140 control unit 150 panel setting determination unit 152 drive source control unit 154 position determination unit 156 function mode determination unit 158 function realization time setting unit 160 time determination unit 162 input operation determination unit 164 function control unit 166 image formation instruction determination unit 168 image formation Control unit

Claims (4)

  An operation panel for setting an input value related to image formation is provided, and an image forming apparatus having an accompanying function related to image formation, wherein the operation panel has a first angle with respect to a horizontal plane. When the operation panel is in the second position, and the operation panel drive unit enables selective change to a position and a second position having an angle larger than the first position, the operation panel is the first When the second time longer than the first time, which is the time until the associated function is activated, is set to the position, the associated function is activated or the associated function is not activated. And when the operation panel returns from the second position to the first position, a function control unit for returning the time until the associated function is activated to the first time and activating the associated function; Prepared An image forming apparatus comprising.   The incidental function related to the image formation is automatically set to the initial set value when a predetermined time has elapsed after the input operation for the input value related to the image formation set to a value different from the initial set value on the operation panel. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus has an auto-clear function for returning to a normal state.   When the operation panel is in the second position, when a second time longer than the first time, which is the time until the associated function is activated when the operation panel is in the first position, has elapsed. When the operation panel is returned from the second position to the first position, the time until the operation of the auxiliary function is set to the first time. The first function mode in which the associated function is activated by returning to the time 1 and the first time that is the same as that in the first position has elapsed even when the operation panel is in the second position. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a function mode selection unit that selectively selects a second function mode in which the auto-clear function is sometimes activated.   The operation panel drive unit includes a drive source that selectively moves the operation panel to a first position and a second position, and controls the operation of the drive source. When the image forming operation is not started or the image forming operation is ended even though a predetermined time has elapsed after the operation panel is moved to the second position while the operation panel is moved from the first position to the second position. After that, when a predetermined time has elapsed, the drive source controller that returns the operation panel from the second position to the first position, and the operation until the operation panel is returned from the second position to the first position. 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a time setting unit configured to change a predetermined time.

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