JP2007235336A - Image forming apparatus and input operating device thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve operability when achieving a universal mode for users, such as physically disabled people, young people, and aged people, who cannot adapt to any complex operation. <P>SOLUTION: In a composite machine having a copier function, corresponding numeric values or symbols are displayed together so that one can operate 1-6, 8, 9, #, and * keys for selecting software keys B80-B86, B88, B89, B8A, B8B in a touch panel device P. Further, the number of software keys is set to the range of numeric keys. As a result, in the universal mode, partial or entire function setting can be performed by the numeric keys, a user who cannot adapt to the complex operation can perform diversified function selection with an easy-to-understand operation by the numeric keys. Only the selection functions of the numeric keys are displayed at a display region A1 to the maximum. Each selection function is enlarged for display, thus improving operability. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus realized as a copying machine or the like and an input operation device thereof, and more particularly to an apparatus having a universal mode.

  In an image forming apparatus that performs complicated functional operations such as the copying machine or a digital multifunction machine having functions such as a printer and a facsimile in addition to its functions, it is installed in a convenience store and used by an unspecified user. In some cases, it is desirable that any user can easily operate without impairing normal high functionality. Therefore, in recent years, devices equipped with a universal mode have appeared. This universal mode is intended for users who can adapt to complicated operations such as healthy people and youths when the user performs function settings from the input operation device. Although it can be set, it is intended for users who are incapacitated and users who cannot adapt to the complicated operations such as young people and elderly people (unfamiliar with the operations). This mode is limited to the function of the part, but can be easily set with a large display.

  For example, Patent Document 1 proposes an image forming apparatus in which the display is enlarged and the entire screen can be confirmed by a scroll key scroll instruction. However, this conventional technique simply performs an enlarged display. When this technique is applied to a configuration in which an input unit is provided on a display unit such as a touch panel, a software key of a necessary function is scrolled to perform a touch operation. There is a problem that the operability is poor.

On the other hand, Patent Document 2 and Patent Document 3 propose a conventional technique in which a skilled user can set a desired function from a large number of functions with less effort. According to those prior arts, functions that should have been divided and displayed on the function selection screen of a plurality of hierarchies are collectively displayed in a small display of only the function names, and the numbers displayed in accordance with them are displayed by a numeric keypad. By designating, it is possible to set a desired function at once without performing a complicated page turning operation.
JP-A-6-59647 Japanese Patent No. 3613410 JP-A-62-272286

  Although Patent Document 2 and Patent Document 3 improve operability by using a numeric keypad for function selection, as described above, all functions are displayed on one screen for skilled users. Therefore, there is a problem that it cannot be applied to the user who is the target of the universal mode.

  An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of improving operability in realizing a universal mode, and an input operation device thereof.

  The input operation device of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention displays the input operation means, a group of numeric keys arranged in a group and a display area of the input operation means, and the input operation means. In the input operation device of the image forming apparatus configured to include an input unit and a control unit that receives an input from the numeric key, the control unit has a selection function on the display area in the universal mode. A function selection screen with a number or symbol associated with the range of numeric keys is displayed, and input from the input unit and each numeric key is accepted as an input of the corresponding selection function. In the standard mode, the display area Furthermore, the selection function is not displayed with a number or a symbol, and only an input from the input unit is accepted.

  According to the above configuration, for example, an input operation unit configured by mounting a touch panel on a liquid crystal panel, and numeric keys arranged in an aggregated manner (if the numeric keys are arranged in an aggregated group, In addition, symbol keys such as # and * may be included as appropriate, and control means for displaying on the display area of the input operation means and receiving input from the input unit of the input operation means In the input operation device of the image forming apparatus configured to include the numeric key, for users who are unable to adapt to complicated operations such as physically handicapped people and young people and elderly people using the numeric keys In the universal mode, in the universal mode, the number associated with the range of the numeric key for each of the plurality of function selection screens that are hierarchically displayed so as to turn the page. The other is to perform the display of the selected function are denoted by the symbol. On the other hand, in the standard mode, the number or symbol is not displayed on the function selection screen, and the function selection is performed by input from a touch panel or the like as usual.

  Therefore, in the universal mode, some or all of the function settings can be performed from the numeric keys, and a user who cannot adapt to the complicated operation can perform various functions with easy-to-understand operations using the numeric keys. In addition to making selections, only the selection functions corresponding to the number keys are displayed in the display area at the maximum, and the respective selection functions can be displayed in a large size to improve operability.

  In the input operation device of the image forming apparatus of the present invention, the control unit switches the display of the display area of the input operation unit to a higher contrast in the universal mode than in the standard mode. To do.

  According to said structure, the visibility at the time of universal mode can be made higher.

  Furthermore, in the input operation device of the image forming apparatus of the present invention, the input operation means is provided with another display area, and the control means displays a status on the other display area regardless of the mode. It is characterized by displaying information.

  According to said structure, the said input operation means is provided with the other display area with the display area which displays the function selection screen by which a display mode is switched as above-mentioned in standard mode and universal mode. Regardless of whether the control mode is the standard mode or the universal mode, the control means performs processing such as facsimile transmission / reception in parallel on other display areas, Displays status information such as device status such as out of paper.

  Therefore, in the universal mode, it is possible to convey important information to the user while improving the operability as described above.

  An image forming apparatus according to the present invention includes the input operation device.

  According to said structure, the image forming apparatus which can improve operativity is realizable.

  As described above, the input operation device of the image forming apparatus of the present invention includes, for example, input operation means configured by mounting a touch panel on a liquid crystal panel, and a group of numeric keys arranged in a collective manner. In the input operation device of the image forming apparatus configured to display on the display area of the input operation unit and to receive a control unit from the input unit of the input operation unit, the numeric key is used. In the universal mode, the control means associates a plurality of function selection screens that are hierarchically displayed so that pages are turned in the universal mode within the range of the numeric key. The selected function is displayed with a number or symbol.

  Therefore, in the universal mode, part or all of the function settings can be performed from the numeric keys, and a user who cannot adapt to the complicated operation can easily perform various operations with the numeric keys. Function selection can be performed, and only the selection functions corresponding to the numeric keys are displayed at the maximum in the display area. Each selection function can be displayed in a large size to improve operability.

  The image forming apparatus of the present invention includes the input operation device as described above.

  Therefore, an image forming apparatus that can improve operability can be realized.

  FIG. 1 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a mechanical configuration of a multifunction machine 1 that is an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. The multi-function peripheral means an image forming apparatus having a plurality of functions related to image formation such as a copy function, a printer function, a facsimile function, and a scanner function. In general, the multifunction machine 1 includes an operation unit 100 for a user to input various operation commands and the like, a main body unit 200, a sheet post-processing unit 300 disposed on the left side of the main body unit 200, The apparatus includes a document reading unit 500 disposed on the upper portion of the main body 200 and a document feeding unit 600 disposed above the document reading unit 500.

  The main body 200 includes a plurality of paper feed cassettes 201, a plurality of paper feed rollers 202, a transfer roller 203, an intermediate transfer body roller 204, a photosensitive drum 205, an exposure device 206, and yellow, magenta, cyan, and black colors. Developing devices 207Y, 207M, 207C, and 207K, a fixing roller 208, a discharge port 209, and a discharge tray 210 are provided.

  The photosensitive drum 205 is uniformly charged by a charging device (not shown) while rotating in the direction of the arrow. The exposure device 206 converts the modulation signal generated based on the image data of the original read by the original reading unit 500 into a laser beam and outputs it, and forms an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 205 for each color. The developing devices 207Y, 207M, 207C, and 207K supply each color developer to the photosensitive drum 205 to form a toner image for each color. The intermediate transfer roller 204 is transferred with the toner image of each color from the photosensitive drum 205, and a color toner image is formed on the intermediate transfer roller 204.

  On the other hand, the paper feeding roller 202 pulls out the recording paper from the paper feeding cassette 201 in which the recording paper is stored, and feeds the recording paper to the transfer roller 203. The transfer roller 203 transfers the toner image on the intermediate transfer body roller 204 onto the conveyed recording paper, and the fixing roller 208 heats and fixes the transferred toner image on the recording paper. Thereafter, the recording paper is carried into the paper post-processing unit 300 from the discharge port 209 of the main body unit 200. The recording paper is also discharged to the discharge tray 210 as necessary.

  The paper post-processing unit 300 includes a carry-in port 301, a recording paper transport unit 302, a sorting unit 303, a processing unit 304, a carry-out port 305, a stack tray 306, and the like. In the paper post-processing unit 300, recording paper that requires post-processing such as stapling and punching after printing is carried into the carry-in port 301 from the discharge port 209 of the main body unit 200, and from the recording paper carrying unit 302. After being sequentially conveyed to the sorting unit 303 and appropriately sorting and leading edge alignment, the processing unit 304 performs processing such as stapling and punching, and the sheet is discharged from the carry-out port 303 to the stack tray 304. The stack tray 304 is configured to move up and down in the direction of the arrow in accordance with the number of recording sheets stacked from the carry-out port 303.

  The document feeding unit 600 includes a document placement unit 601, a document discharge unit 602, a paper feed roller 603, a document transport unit 604, and the like, and the document reading unit 500 includes a scanner 501 and the like. The paper feed roller 603 feeds the original set on the document placement unit 601, and the document transport unit 604 transports the fed document one by one on the scanner 501 one by one. The scanner 501 sequentially reads the conveyed document, and the read document is discharged to the document discharge unit 602.

  FIG. 2 is a front view of the operation unit 100. The operation unit 100 is provided with a touch panel device P, various switches S0 to S4; S11 to S21, a numeric key group K, and indicators L1 to L5. The touch panel device P is an input operation means, and is configured by mounting a touch panel constituting an input unit on a liquid crystal panel having a display area. The liquid crystal panel can perform full-color display, and is partitioned on the liquid crystal panel. When the user touches the soft key, it is recognized that the key operation has been performed.

  The numeric key group K is constituted by including symbol keys K10 and K11 of # and * in numerical keys K0 to K9 of 0 to 9 which are collectively arranged as a group. In this embodiment, the numeric key group K is not limited to the numeric keys K0 to K9, but may be configured to include keys other than the symbol keys K10 and K11 of # and * as appropriate. Unlike the switches S0 to S4; S11 to S21, the numerical keys K0 to K9 are collectively arranged as a group.

  In the remaining switches S0 to S4; S11 to S21, the switch S0 is typically a sub power switch, and is a power switch that enables a copy operation, a scanner reading, and the like. If a main power switch is provided and the main power switch is turned on, facsimile reception and printer data reception can be performed even if the sub power switch S0 is not turned on. The switch S1 is a start switch for starting the copying operation and scanner reading, the switch S2 is a stop switch for stopping the copying operation and scanner reading, the switch S3 is a clear switch for canceling the input operation, and the switch S4 Is a reset switch for resetting the touch panel device P to an initial state. It should be noted that in this embodiment, a switch S21 for switching to the universal mode is provided. The universal mode of the present embodiment by switching the switch S21 will be described in detail later.

  The indicators L1 to L5 are made up of light emitting diodes and the like, and indicate the state of the multi-function device 1 in the on / off or blinking state. For example, the indicator L1 is lit during printing in the printer interlock mode, the indicator L2 is lit during facsimile transmission, the indicator L3 is lit during facsimile reception, and the indicator L4 stores data such as waiting for facsimile transmission or unprinted data. The indicator L5 is lit or flashes when an abnormality occurs somewhere in the multifunction device.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the multifunction machine 1 configured as described above. In general, the MFP 1 includes a scanner unit 11, an image processing unit 21, a printer unit 31, a data memory 36, a control unit 41, an operation panel unit 51, a facsimile communication unit 61, a network I / F unit 71, a parallel I / F unit 72, serial I / F unit 73, and HDD 74.

  The scanner unit 11, the image processing unit 21, the data memory 36, the control unit 41, the operation panel unit 51, and the network I / F unit 71 are the operation unit 100, the document reading unit 500, and the document feeding unit shown in FIG. These components correspond to 600, and a network scanner function for transmitting the captured image data to a pre-specified IP address is realized. The scanner unit 11, the image processing unit 21, the printer unit 31, the data memory 36, the control unit 41, the operation panel unit 51, and the facsimile communication unit 61 include the main body unit 200, the operation unit 100, and the document reading shown in FIG. It corresponds to the unit 500 and the document feeding unit 600, and a facsimile function is realized by these units. Furthermore, the image processing unit 21, the printer unit 31, the control unit 41, the operation panel unit 51, the network I / F unit 71, and the parallel I / F unit 72 are added to the main body unit 200 and the operation unit 100 shown in FIG. Correspondingly, a printer function is realized by these units. The scanner unit 11, the image processing unit 21, the printer unit 31, the control unit 41, and the operation panel unit 51 include a main body unit 200, a sheet post-processing unit 300, an operation unit 100, an original reading unit 500, These units correspond to the document feeding unit 600, and a copy function is realized by these units.

  As will be described later, the operation panel unit 51 is used by a user to perform operations related to a copy function, a printer function, a facsimile function, a scanner function, and the like, and gives an operation command (command) by the user to the control unit 41. It is. The operation panel unit 51 includes a display unit 52 having the touch panel device P and indicators L1 to L5, and an operation key unit 53 having a start switch S1, a numeric key group K, and the like.

  The scanner unit 11 optically acquires a document image and generates image data. The scanner unit 11 includes an exposure lamp 12 and a CCD (charge coupled device) 13. The scanner unit 11 irradiates the document with the exposure lamp 12 and receives the reflected light with the CCD 13, thereby reading the document image and outputting image data corresponding to the read image to the image processing unit 21. The scanner unit 11 may be capable of reading not only monochrome originals but also color originals and photographic originals.

  The image processing unit 21 performs various image processing on the image data. For example, the image processing unit 21 performs predetermined correction processing such as level correction and γ correction, image data compression or expansion processing, enlargement or reduction processing on image data obtained by being read by the scanner unit 11. Various image processing (processing processing) is performed. The image processing unit 21 includes an image memory 22 and stores processed image data or the like in the image memory 22 or outputs it to the printer unit 31, the facsimile communication unit 61, the network I / F unit 71, or the like.

  The printer unit 31 receives original image data read by the scanner unit 11, image data received from an external personal computer or the like via the network I / F unit 71, and received from an external facsimile apparatus by the facsimile communication unit 61. An image corresponding to image data such as fax data is printed on a predetermined recording sheet. The printer unit 31 includes a paper transport unit 32 having a paper feed cassette and paper feed rollers, an image transfer unit 33 having an intermediate transfer body roller, a photosensitive drum, an exposure device, a developing device, etc., a transfer unit having a transfer roller, etc. 34, and a fixing unit 35 having a fixing roller and the like. Specifically, the paper transport unit 32 transports the recording paper to the image forming unit 33, the image forming unit 33 forms a toner image corresponding to the image data, and the transfer unit 34 transfers the toner image to the recording paper. The fixing unit 35 fixes the toner image on the recording paper to form an image.

  The data memory 36 is a storage means that stores in advance the destination name and the facsimile number of the short button registration when performing facsimile communication, and also the IP address of the transmission destination when used as a network scanner. I remember it. These stored contents can be appropriately rewritten by the control unit 41 by an input operation to the operation panel unit 51.

  The control unit 41 stores, in a CPU (Central Processing Unit) (not shown), a RAM (Random Access Memory) or ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores a program that defines the operation of the CPU, and data temporarily. Peripheral devices such as a RAM and a nonvolatile storage unit. As a result, the control unit 41 controls the entire multifunction device 1 in accordance with the instruction information received by the operation panel unit 51 and the like and the detection signals from the sensors provided in various parts of the multifunction device 1. More specifically, the control unit 41 functions as a scanner controller 42, a facsimile controller 43, a printer controller 44, a copy controller 45, and an input controller 46.

  The program can be supplied through a recording medium such as a ROM or a CD-ROM, or can be supplied through a transmission medium such as a network connected to the network I / F unit 71. The transmission medium is not limited to a wired transmission medium, and may be a wireless transmission medium. The transmission medium includes not only a communication line but also a relay device that relays the communication line, for example, a communication link such as a router.

  When the program is supplied through the ROM, the ROM in which the program is recorded is mounted on the control unit 41 so that the program can be executed by the CPU. When the program is supplied through a CD-ROM, the CD-ROM reader can be connected to the parallel I / F unit 72, for example, and transferred to the RAM, so that the program can be executed by the CPU. When the program is supplied through a transmission medium, the program received through the network I / F unit 71 can be transferred to the RAM for execution by the CPU.

  The scanner controller 42 controls the operation of each unit used to realize the scanner function. The facsimile controller 43 controls the operation of each unit used to implement the facsimile function. The printer controller 44 controls the operation of each unit used for realizing the printer function. The copy controller 45 controls the operation of each unit used for realizing the copy function.

  The facsimile communication unit 61 includes an encoding / decoding unit (not shown), a modem unit (not shown), and an NCU (Network Control Unit) (not shown), and an image of a document read by the scanner unit 11. Data is transmitted to another facsimile apparatus via a telephone line or an Internet line, or image data transmitted from another facsimile apparatus is received. The encoding / decoding unit compresses and encodes image data to be transmitted, and decompresses and decodes received image data. The modem unit modulates the compressed and encoded image data into an audio signal. Or a received signal (audio signal) is demodulated into image data. The NCU controls connection via a telephone line with a facsimile apparatus as a transmission / reception destination.

  The network I / F unit 71 uses a network interface (for example, 10 / 100Base-TX) or the like to control transmission / reception of various data to / from a user side server connected via the network. When one or more terminal devices (not shown) such as a personal computer are connected to the network, the network I / F unit 71 controls transmission / reception of various data to / from these terminal devices. For example, the network I / F unit 71 transmits document image data read by the scanner unit 11 to the terminal device or receives image data sent from the terminal device for printing by the printer unit 31.

  The parallel I / F unit 72 receives print data or the like from an external device or the like by parallel transmission in which data is transmitted in units of a plurality of bits using a plurality of signal lines using a high-speed bidirectional parallel interface (for example, conforming to IEEE 1284). It is to be equal. The serial I / F unit 73 uses a serial interface (for example, RS-232C) or the like, and receives various data from an external device or the like by serial transmission that sequentially transmits data bit by bit using a single signal line. To do.

  The HDD 74 is a detachable storage medium that is optionally added. The HDD 74 stores image data read by the scanner unit 11, image data transmitted via a network, an output format set for the image data, and the like. It is something to remember. By adding this HDD 74, it becomes possible to read a document without being linked to the print output or to read a large number of documents continuously. The image data stored in the HDD 74 is not only used in the multifunction device 1 but also confirmed by the terminal device or transferred to a predetermined folder of the terminal device via the network I / F unit 71. As a result, it may be used in the terminal device.

  In the multifunction machine 1, various functions are realized by combining the above-described functions. For example, a PC transmission function, an E-mail transmission function, a FAX transmission function, or the like may be realized as the scanner function. Here, the PC transmission function is a function for directly transmitting image data read from a document to an arbitrary terminal device or the like via a network. The E-mail transmission function transmits image data read from a document as an attached file of an e-mail directly to, for example, an SMTP server (not shown) via a network, and from the SMTP server to an arbitrary external device via the network. This is a function for transmitting image data read from a document as an attached file of an electronic mail by transmitting the electronic mail to a terminal device or the like. The FAX transmission function is a function for directly transmitting image data read from a document to an arbitrary facsimile machine or the like via a telephone line or the like.

  Hereinafter, an input method (form) according to an embodiment of the present invention by the input controller 46 of the control unit 41 using the operation unit 100 will be described in detail. In the present embodiment, the input method (form) includes a standard mode for users who can adapt to complicated operations such as healthy people and youth, and people with physical disabilities and young people. Two modes, a universal mode for users who cannot adapt to the complicated operations such as the elderly, are set, and an input operation is performed by switching these modes. The input controller 46 of the control unit 41 serving as the control means, the touch panel device P serving as the input operation means, and the numeric key group K constitute an input operation device according to the present invention.

  On the standby screen in the standard mode, as shown in FIG. 4, first, various software keys indicated by reference character B0 are displayed on the external view of the multi-function device 1 indicated by reference character H0 in the display area A1, as shown in FIG. In addition, guidance display is performed in the display area A2, and status information is displayed in the display area A3. In the example of FIG. 4, in the external view H <b> 0, a plurality of optional paper feed cassettes 201, a paper post-processing unit 300, a document reading unit 500, and a document feeding unit 600 are attached to the main body unit 200. It is shown. The software key B0 is assigned a basic function as a copying machine. Furthermore, the guidance display shows that no abnormality has occurred in the copying machine, the copying operation is possible, and an initial value of 1 is set for the number of copies to be set. The status information indicates that facsimile transmission is in progress. The present embodiment has a feature regarding the universal mode and the mode switching, and will be described in detail below. However, the screen of the standard mode is the same as the conventional screen, and an example will be briefly described in the following description as well. .

  In this state, when a numerical value is input from the numerical keys K0 to K9 of the numeric key group K, the number of copies is set, the guidance display is changed, the original is set, and the start switch S1 is operated. Then, the copy operation is performed for the set number of copies. Further, when various software keys B0 are operated from the state of FIG. 4, the display area A2 is switched to a detailed function setting screen in the next layer of each corresponding function.

  In such an input receiving operation, the input controller 46 in the control unit 41 recognizes a software key set in the touch panel device P, an operation from the switches S0 to S4; S11 to S21, or the numeric key group K. It is realized by doing. In response to the input, the controllers 41 to 45 of various applications in the control unit 41 operate, and the input controller 46 reads the image data stored in the data memory 36 and displays the next function setting screen. For example, display control of the touch panel device P and the indicators L1 to L5 is performed. Similarly, on the function setting screens according to the following embodiments, software keys set on the touch panel device P, operations from the switches S0 to S4; S11 to S21, or the numeric key group K are stored in the control unit 41. Is changed by reading out the image data stored in the data memory 36, and the description of such a hardware configuration is omitted.

  When the switch S21 is operated on the standby screen in the standard mode shown in FIG. 4, the display is switched to the universal mode, and the display content of the display area A1 changes as shown in FIG. In the present embodiment, when the mode is switched to the universal mode, the display area A1 is switched to the monochrome high-contrast display, and a screen with the set number of copies indicated by reference numeral H10 is displayed so that only the number of copies is set first. The input from the numeric keys K0 to K9 of the numeric key group K is permitted. When a numerical value is input, the number of copies is set and the set number of screens H10 is changed. When a document is set and the start switch S1 is operated, the copying operation is performed for the set number of copies. At this time, although the set number of copies is continuously displayed in color as guidance in the display area A2, the display of the display area A1 is monochrome high-contrast as described above, and is substantially at the center of the display area A1. It is an enlarged display at. The status information in the display area A3 is also in color, and the same display is continued if there is no change in status.

  In the first screen of the universal mode, a software key B10 for setting other functions is displayed together with the enlarged display H10 of the set number of copies. The software key B10 has a symbol #. When this software key B1 is operated, or when the symbol key K10 of # in the numeric key group K is operated, an input screen for other functions as shown in FIG. 6 is displayed. In the first screen of the universal mode shown in FIG. 5, by using the # symbol key K10 as the software key B10 for shifting to a function setting other than the number setting, the number of copies can be input from the numeric keys K0 to K9. You can categorize and accept input. The software key B10 only needs to correspond to the symbol key other than the numeric keys K0 to K9 in the numeric key group K. In the example of FIG. 2, the symbol key K11 of * may be used.

  Also in the function selection screen shown in FIG. 6, since the universal mode continues, the display in the display area A1 is monochrome high contrast, and the software keys B20 to B27 correspond to the numeric keys K0 to K7, respectively. Number is attached. In the function setting screen shown in FIG. 6, when each software key B20 for setting the number of copies or the numeric key K0 corresponding thereto is operated, the screen returns to the number setting screen shown in FIG. 5 and the software keys B21 to B26 or When the corresponding numeric keys K1 to K6 are operated, the corresponding function setting screen is displayed. In addition, even if the reset switch S4 is operated on the function setting screen shown in FIG. 6, the screen returns to the number setting screen shown in FIG.

  Here, functions that can be set include selection of paper corresponding to software key B21 and numerical key K1, selection of reduction / enlargement corresponding to software key B22 and numerical key K2, and correspondence to software key B23 and numerical key K3. Staple / punch selection, copy density selection corresponding to software key B24 and numeric key K4, duplex / division selection corresponding to software key B25 and numeric key K5, and software key B26 and numeric key K6 Nine types of selection to be performed, sorting / sorting selection not shown in FIG. 6, selection of document image quality, and selection of document size. FIG. 6 shows a state immediately before reduction / enlargement is selected and the function selection screen for the reduction / enlargement of the next hierarchy is displayed.

  In the function selection screen of FIG. 6, in order to enlarge the software key, the three software keys of sorting / sorting selection, document image quality selection, and document size selection are not displayed as described above. Instead, the software key B27 for screen switching indicated by the down arrow is displayed. When this software key B27 or the numerical key K7 is operated, these software keys are displayed, and the software key for screen switching indicated by the up arrow is also displayed. When the screen switching software key or the corresponding numerical key is operated, the screen returns to the function selection screen shown in FIG.

  In the function selection screen shown in FIG. 6, for example, when the software key B21 or the numeric key K1 is operated, the function selection screen moves to the next level so as to turn the page, and the paper selection as shown in FIG. It becomes a screen. In this paper selection screen, the display area A2 is displayed in color as a paper selection screen as guidance. If the status information in the display area A3 is also in color and there is no change in status, the same display is continued. . On the other hand, in the display of the display area A1, the software keys B30 to B36 having monochrome high contrast and numbered corresponding to the numerical keys K0 to K6 are displayed as described above, and the symbol keys K10 and K11 are displayed. Software keys B3A and B3B marked with symbols # and * corresponding to are displayed.

  By operating the software key B30 or the corresponding numerical key K0, the paper is automatically selected, and by operating the software keys B31 to B36 or the corresponding numerical keys K1 to K6, the paper of each size is manually selected, and the software key B3A is selected. Alternatively, by operating the corresponding symbol key K10, the selection is determined and the screen automatically returns to the previous level (function selection screen shown in FIG. 6), and the software key B3B or the corresponding symbol key K11 is operated. The settings by the software keys B30 to B36 or the corresponding keys K0 to K6 are cancelled. FIG. 7 shows a state where automatic selection is selected.

  In the function selection screen shown in FIG. 6, for example, when the software key B24 or the numerical key K4 is operated, the density selection screen shown in FIG. 8 is displayed. In this density selection screen, the display area A2 is displayed in color as a density selection screen as guidance, and the status information in the display area A3 is also in color, and the same display is continued if there is no change in status. . On the other hand, in the display area A1, software keys B40 to B47 having monochrome high contrast and numbered corresponding to the numeric keys K0 to K7 are displayed as described above, and the symbol keys K10 and K11 are displayed. Software keys B4A and B3B with symbols # and * corresponding to are displayed.

  The density is automatically selected by operating the software key B40 or the corresponding numeric key K0, and the density is manually selected by operating the software keys B41 to B47 or the corresponding numeric keys K1 to K7, and the software key B4A. Or, by operating the corresponding symbol key K10, it becomes a selection decision and automatically returns to the previous hierarchy (function selection screen shown in FIG. 6), and by operating the software key B4B or the corresponding symbol key K11. The settings by the software keys B40 to B47 or the corresponding keys K0 to K7 are cancelled. FIG. 8 shows a state where the intermediate density is selected. For this density selection, an up / down key may be used as a software key, and density setting may be performed by repeated operations.

  In this embodiment, since the facsimile transmission operation and the copying operation described above are expected to be used by many users and can be used with only simple functions, the universal mode is set. These operations can be switched in the universal mode. On the other hand, other operations that require complex operations are not supported in universal mode.

  Accordingly, during the display of an arbitrary function selection screen for the copy operation in the universal mode shown in FIGS. 5 to 8 as described above or after the end of the copy operation, the user desires an operation other than those operations, for example, When the box function switch S20 is operated, an inquiry (warning) screen to the user as shown in FIG. 9 is displayed. After the user is confirmed, the mode is switched to the standard mode and other operations are performed. (“Yes” is selected by operating the software key B5A or the symbol key K10), and the transmission operation or the copy operation is continued in the universal mode (“No” is selected by operating the software key B5B or the symbol key K11). Determine whether.

  On the other hand, when the transmission switch S18 is operated while the arbitrary function selection screen in the universal mode shown in FIGS. 5 to 8 is being displayed or after the copy operation is completed, the function being set is deleted and the universal mode is deleted. The operation proceeds to the facsimile transmission operation as it is, and the function selection screen as shown in FIG. 10 is displayed. Further, when the transmission switch S18 is operated during standby as shown in FIG. 4 and the universal mode switch S21 is further operated, the facsimile transmission operation switches to the universal mode, and the function selection screen as shown in FIG. It becomes.

  The function selection screen shown in FIG. 10 is used to determine a method of selecting a transmission destination, called a destination by an abbreviated number corresponding to software key B6B and symbol key K11, and a registered counterpart corresponding to software key B61 and numeric key K1. Three methods of selection are shown: direct call and a direct facsimile number input corresponding to software key B22 and numeric key K2. In FIG. 10, the status information display area A3 indicates that an error has occurred in the print job.

  When the software key B6B or the symbol key K11 is operated on the function selection screen shown in FIG. 10, the screen shifts to the function selection screen of the next layer, and the screen for inputting the abbreviated number as shown in FIG. In the function selection screen of FIG. 11, a software key B7B for canceling the input is displayed together with an enlarged display H70 of the abbreviated number input from the numerical keys K0 to K9.

  On the other hand, when the software key B61 or the numeric key K1 is operated on the function selection screen shown in FIG. 10, the screen moves to the function selection screen of the next hierarchy, and direct call of the registered partner as shown in FIG. It becomes a screen. In the selection screen of FIG. 12, the names or telephone numbers of the registered counterparts corresponding to the software keys B81 to B86 and the numeric keys K1 to K6 and such telephones corresponding to the software keys B88 and B89 and the numeric keys K8 and K9. Up / down key for page turning of book, switching key for switching to abbreviated number calling as shown in FIG. 11 corresponding to software key B8B and symbol key K11, and selected partner corresponding to software key B8A and symbol key K10 A switching key for switching to the previous confirmation screen and a switching key for detailed setting corresponding to the software key B80 and the numerical key K0 are displayed.

  Here, the software keys are displayed in the range of the keys K0 to K11 of the numeric key group K, that is, up to 12 in the example of FIG. Therefore, if other keys are provided in the numeric key group K, they may be included. In the example of FIG. 12, the software key corresponding to the numeric key K7 is not provided due to the screen balance, but the software keys corresponding to all the other keys K0 to K6 and K8 to K11 are provided. Yes. As a result, in each function selection screen, each software key (selection function) has a corresponding key individually, and operation of the corresponding key is easy, and each selection function is displayed in a large size, so that operability is improved. Can be improved. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 11, when it is necessary to input using the numeric keys K0 to K9, the software key is set only in the range of the symbol keys K10 and K11.

  When the software key B80 or the numeric key K0 is operated on the function selection screen shown in FIG. 12, the function selection screen moves to the next layer, and various setting screens for facsimile transmission as shown in FIG. 13 are displayed. On the facsimile transmission setting screen, color / monochrome selection corresponding to software key B91 and numeric key K1, selection of document size corresponding to software key B92 and numeric key K2, and software key B93 and numeric key K3 are supported. Selection of file format, selection of density corresponding to software key B94 and numeric key K4, selection of single-sided / double-sided reading corresponding to software key B95 and numeric key K5, and resolution corresponding to software key B96 and numeric key K6 As in the case of FIG. 6, the tenth selection of transmission size selection, original image quality selection, reduction / enlargement selection, and original setting direction selection, which is not shown in FIG. Done. Further, it is possible to select return to the destination selection screen of FIG. 10 or 12 corresponding to the software key B90 and the numeric key K0. FIG. 13 shows a state immediately before the document size is selected and the function selection screen for the next layer is displayed.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 11 above, the transmission destination is selected from the abbreviated number, and when it is confirmed, or the transmission destination is selected from the direct input of the telephone number as shown in the next FIG. 14, When it is confirmed, the screen shifts to various setting screens for facsimile transmission shown in FIG.

  When the software key B62 or the numeric key K2 is operated on the function selection screen shown in FIG. 10, the screen moves to the screen of the next layer, and the phone number direct input screen as shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, when the job confirmation switch S15 is operated during the function selection for facsimile transmission shown in FIGS. 10 to 14, the function selection screen as shown in FIG. .

  As described above, in the multi-function device 1 according to the present embodiment, the input controller 46 of the control unit 41 includes a plurality of copies including the number of copies setting on the display area A1 of the touch panel device P in the standard mode as shown in FIG. When the function selection screen is displayed and the selection is allowed and the mode is switched to the universal mode, first, as shown by reference numeral H10 in FIG. 5, the input screen for the set number of copies is enlarged and displayed. The function display other than the number of copies is erased (except for the software key B10 for shifting to other function settings. However, the operation can be returned to the standby screen shown in FIG. 4 by operating the reset switch S4. This software key B10 does not necessarily need to be displayed.) Since only the number of copies is allowed, the operation of setting the number of copies that is frequently used is expanded. It can be facilitated in terms (easily visible). As a result, the setting operation is simplified and a person unfamiliar with the operation can use the multifunction device 1.

  In addition, the input controller 46 of the control unit 41 makes the display area A1 of the touch panel device P monochrome display in the universal mode and switches to a higher contrast than in the standard mode. For a person, visibility in the universal mode can be increased.

  Note that the number of colors used is not necessarily limited to monochrome display, and may be reduced in the universal mode compared to the standard mode. However, when selecting a color other than monochrome, a color that provides a higher contrast than in the standard mode is selected. On the other hand, at the time of the standard mode, it is only necessary to realize a display in which the user can obtain information from the display color or can easily recognize it with multiple colors and multiple gradations, even if the color is not full color.

  Furthermore, the touch panel device P is provided with another display area A3 in addition to the display area A1 for displaying various function setting screens, and the input controller 46 of the control unit 41 is configured as the standard mode. Regardless of whether the mode is the universal mode or the universal mode, other processing such as facsimile transmission / reception on the other display area A3, the state of the device such as a faulty part or a piece of paper, etc. Since the status information is displayed, important information can be conveyed to the user while improving the operability as described above in the universal mode.

  Further, the input controller 46 displays the software keys displayed in the display area A1 with numbers or symbols associated with the keys K0 to K11 arranged in a collective manner in the universal mode. The input from the keys K0 to K11 is also accepted as the input of the corresponding selection function together with the input from the software key. In the standard mode, the number or symbol is not displayed and only the input from the software key is accepted. In the mode, some or all of the function settings of the copy operation and facsimile transmission operation can be performed from the keys K0 to K11, and the user who cannot adapt to the complicated operation can be understood by the keys K0 to K11. Various functions can be selected with easy operation and conventional software can be selected. Selection by ackee can also be performed, further the display area A1 can be improved up to not only see the key K0~K11 minutes selection function, larger view and operability of each of the selected function.

  In the standard mode, the number or symbol is not displayed as described above, and the function selection is performed only by input from the touch panel device P. For example, Japanese Patent No. 3613410 As shown in Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 62-272286, etc., although the number or symbol is displayed, each selection function in the function selection screen of a plurality of layers is displayed in a small display and is displayed as a key. The input method may be set as appropriate, for example, by specifying one shot by one or more operations of K0 to K11 (multiple operations specify numerical values of two digits or more).

  Furthermore, when another operation that is not supported in the universal mode and can only select the standard mode is selected from the copy operation and the facsimile transmission operation in which the universal mode can be selected, the input controller 46 will be described with reference to FIG. After inquiring to the user once on the inquiry (warning) screen as shown in, the universal mode is canceled and the standard mode is restored, so the universal mode may be canceled undesirably due to a user's misoperation, etc. Can be eliminated. If there is little possibility of an erroneous operation after the copy operation is completed or the selection on the function selection screen of the lowest layer is completed, the inquiry (warning) screen as shown in FIG. It is also possible to return directly to the standard mode without displaying.

  In the above description, although the switch to the universal mode is the operation of the switch S21 by the user, the MFP 1 communicates with the IC tag embedded in the identification card possessed by each user. The timing of switching to the universal mode may be determined voluntarily, such as detecting the approach of a wheelchair or detecting the approach of a child, and may be switched without being operated by the user.

1 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view illustrating a mechanical configuration of a multifunction peripheral that is an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a front view of an operation unit in the multifunction machine. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical configuration of the multifunction machine. It is a figure which shows the standby screen (normal standby screen) of standard mode. It is a figure which shows the copy number setting screen which is an initial screen in the universal mode in a copy operation. It is a figure which shows an example of the function setting screen in the universal mode in the said copy operation | movement. It is a figure which shows the other example of the function setting screen in the universal mode in the said copy operation | movement. It is a figure which shows the further another example of the function setting screen in the universal mode in the said copy operation | movement. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen of the cancellation warning of a universal mode. It is a figure which shows the setting screen of the selection method of the transmission destination which is an initial screen in the universal mode in facsimile transmission operation | movement. It is a figure which shows an example of the function setting screen in the universal mode in facsimile transmission operation | movement. It is a figure which shows the other example of the function setting screen in the universal mode in a facsimile transmission operation | movement. It is a figure which shows the further another example of the function setting screen in the universal mode in facsimile transmission operation | movement. It is a figure which shows the other example of the function setting screen in the universal mode in a facsimile transmission operation | movement. It is a figure which shows the further another example of the function setting screen in the universal mode in facsimile transmission operation | movement.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Multifunction machine 11 Scanner part 21 Image processing part 31 Printer part 36 Data memory 41 Control part 42 Scanner controller 43 Facsimile controller 44 Printer controller 45 Copy controller 46 Input controller 51 Operation panel part 52 Display part 53 Operation key part 61 Facsimile communication part 71 Network I / F unit 72 Parallel I / F unit 73 Serial I / F unit 74 HDD
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Operation part 200 Main part 300 Paper post-processing part 500 Original reading part 600 Original feeding part A1-A3 Display area K Number key group K0-K9 Numerical key K10, K11 Symbol key L1-L5 Indicator P Touch panel apparatus S0-S4 S11 to S21 switches

Claims (4)

The input operation means, a group of numeric keys arranged in an aggregated manner, and a display area of the input operation means are displayed, and input from the input section of the input operation means and the numeric keys is performed. In an input operation device of an image forming apparatus configured to include a control means for receiving,
In the universal mode, the control means displays a function selection screen in which a number or a symbol associated with a selection function in the range of the numeric key is displayed on the display area, and from the input unit and each numeric key. In the standard mode, the number or symbol is not displayed on the display function, and only the input from the input unit is received in the standard mode. An input operation device of the forming apparatus.   2. The input operation device of an image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means switches the display of the display area of the input operation means to a higher contrast in the universal mode than in the standard mode.   3. The input operation means is provided with another display area, and the control means displays status information on the other display area regardless of the mode. Input operation device of the image forming apparatus.   An image forming apparatus comprising the input operation device according to claim 1.