JP2013222298A - Display input device and image forming device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a display input device that improves convenience of users.SOLUTION: In a display input device, a liquid crystal display part 12 increases a display area of a program key PK when a touch panel part 11 receives an operation for extending a distance between two points touched in a display position of the program key PK, and displays a function information image C indicative of at least one of a function name of a function defined in a program corresponding to the program key PK and a setting value, in the display area of the program key PK.

Description

  The present invention relates to a display input device and an image forming apparatus.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there has been known an image forming apparatus equipped with a plurality of types of functions (for example, reduced printing, enlarged printing, double-sided printing, aggregate printing, etc.) capable of changing set values. Such an image forming apparatus is usually provided with a display input device for receiving an instruction to select a function to be used among a plurality of types of functions and an instruction to change a set value of the selected function.

  Conventionally, an image forming apparatus equipped with a program function is also known. The program function is a function for registering one or more functions (set values) selected in advance by the user as a program among a plurality of types of functions. Thus, from the user's point of view, the user's desired function is set just by performing an operation for calling the program, which is convenient.

  For example, when a user calls a program, the display input device displays a selection screen for selecting the program to be called. At this time, the display input device displays a program key (soft key) corresponding to the registered program. When the user presses the program key, a program corresponding to the pressed program key is called (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2007-68009 A

  By the way, some users may want to confirm the contents of registered programs (contents of registered functions (setting values)). For this reason, in Patent Document 1, a confirmation key for accepting an instruction to display the contents of a registered program is arranged in a selection screen for accepting an instruction to select a program to be called. When the confirmation key is pressed by the user, the display input device changes the display screen from the selection screen to the confirmation screen, and displays the registered content in the confirmation screen. Thereby, the user can confirm the registered content.

  However, from the user's point of view, if the display screen transitions from the selection screen to the confirmation screen when confirming the registered content, the display screen must be returned to the selection screen when calling the program, which is cumbersome and inconvenient. . In addition, the user who is not familiar with the handling of the device may not know the position of the confirmation key itself. In this case, since it is necessary to search for a confirmation key, it is not convenient for the user.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and provides a display input device and an image forming apparatus capable of improving user convenience by facilitating confirmation of program contents. With the goal.

  In order to achieve the above object, a display input device according to the present invention includes data in which one or more selected functions of a plurality of functions are defined together with setting values, and a setting state defined in the data A storage unit that stores a pre-registered program for setting a display input device, and a display unit that displays a program selection screen on which a program key for receiving an instruction to call a program stored in the storage unit is arranged; A touch panel unit that is provided for the display unit and detects a plurality of touch positions touched by the user. When the touch panel unit accepts an operation for expanding the interval between the two points while the two points are touched at the display position of the program key, the display unit expands the program key display region and displays the program key display region. The function information representing at least one of the function name and the setting value of the function defined in the program corresponding to the program key is displayed.

  In the configuration of the present invention, as described above, the display unit displays the program key display area when the touch panel unit accepts an operation of widening the interval between the two points while the two points are touched at the program key display position. The function information representing at least one of the function name and the set value of the function defined in the program corresponding to the program key is displayed in the program key display area. As a result, when the user wants to check the function defined in the registered program and the set value of the function when the program selection screen is displayed, the interval between the two touch points on the touch panel unit at the program key display position is set. The registration contents can be confirmed simply by performing the spreading operation, which is convenient. In addition, since there is no need to transition from the program selection screen to the registration content confirmation screen, it is possible to confirm the registration content promptly (saving the trouble of searching for a key for transitioning to the registration content confirmation screen), which is convenient. . As a result, in the configuration of the present invention, the convenience of the confirmation work of the registered content by the user is improved.

  In the configuration of the present invention, the display unit enlarges the program key display area when displaying the function information in the program key display area. As a result, even if the user has registered a large number of functions, a plurality of function information representing at least one of the function name and setting value of each of the many functions can be displayed together in the program key display area. Can do. For this reason, the convenience of the confirmation work of the registered content by the user is further improved.

  In the above configuration, preferably, when the touch panel unit receives an operation for moving the function information in the program key display area to the outside of the program key display area, the storage unit stores the program corresponding to the program key, The function corresponding to the function information existing in the program key display area at the present time is overwritten with a defined program. As a result, when the user wants to edit the program (deletes a registered function), the user moves the function information in the program key display area outside the program key display area (for example, drag and drop operation). The program can be edited simply by performing the operation on the touch panel unit, which is convenient. In addition, since there is no need to make a transition from the program selection screen to the program editing screen, the program can be edited quickly (the effort to find a key for making a transition to the program editing screen can be saved), which is convenient.

  In the above configuration, preferably, when the display area of the program key is enlarged, the display unit includes at least function names and setting values of functions not defined in the program corresponding to the program key outside the program key display area. The function information representing one side is displayed. As a result, the user can confirm unregistered functions at the same time, which is convenient.

  In this case, preferably, when the touch panel unit receives an operation for moving the function information outside the program key display area into the program key display area, the storage unit stores the program corresponding to the program key at the present time. The program key is rewritten to a program in which the function corresponding to the function information existing in the display area of the program key is defined. Thus, when the user wants to edit the program (additional registration of an unregistered function), the user moves the function information outside the program key display area into the program key display area (for example, drag and drop operation). ) Can be edited simply by performing the operation on the touch panel unit, which is convenient. In addition, since there is no need to make a transition from the program selection screen to the program editing screen, the program can be edited quickly (the effort to find a key for making a transition to the program editing screen can be saved), which is convenient.

  In the above configuration, preferably, after the display area of the program key is enlarged, the touch panel section accepts an operation for narrowing the interval between the two points while the two points are touched at the display position of the program key. In this case, the size of the program key display area is returned to the original size, and the function information is hidden. Thus, the user can easily return the program selection screen to the original state (a state where a registered program can be called), which is convenient.

  In the above configuration, preferably, when the display area of the program key is enlarged, the display unit makes the brightness of the display area outside the display area of the program key darker than the brightness of the display area of the program key. Thereby, it is easy for the user to identify whether or not the mode for confirming the registered content (mode for editing the program) has been entered, which is convenient.

  In this case, preferably, after the display unit expands the display area of the program key, the touch panel unit accepts an operation of narrowing the interval between the two points while the two points are touched at the display position of the program key. The brightness of the darkened display area outside the program key display area is returned to the original brightness. Accordingly, it is easy for the user to identify whether or not the mode has been returned from the mode for confirming the registered content (the mode for editing the program) to the normal mode, which is convenient.

  In the above configuration, preferably, when the touch panel unit accepts an operation of widening the interval between the two points while the two points are touched at the display position of the program key, the display unit is the two points that are touch positions with respect to the touch panel unit. The display area of the program key is expanded in the direction in which the interval of is expanded. Thereby, the display area of the program key can be expanded in the direction desired by the user.

  Further, an image forming apparatus of the present invention includes the display input device. In such an image forming apparatus, user convenience can be improved.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to easily obtain a display input device and an image forming apparatus capable of improving user convenience by facilitating confirmation of program contents.

1 is a schematic view of an image forming apparatus including a display input device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed view of the display input device of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. The figure which showed an example of the screen (main menu screen) displayed on the display input device of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. The figure which showed an example of the screen (setting screen) displayed on the display input device of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. The figure which showed an example of the screen (setting value input screen) displayed on the display input device of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. The figure which showed an example of the screen (program selection screen) displayed on the display input device of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. The figure which showed an example of the screen (setting screen) displayed on the display input device of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. The figure for demonstrating operation when confirming the content of the program in the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. The figure which showed an example of the screen displayed on a display input device at the time of the program editing in the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. The figure which showed an example of the screen displayed on a display input device at the time of the program editing in the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. The figure which showed an example of the screen displayed on a display input device at the time of the program editing in the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. The figure which showed an example of the screen displayed on a display input device at the time of the program editing in the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. The figure which showed an example of the screen displayed on a display input device at the time of the program editing in the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. The figure which showed an example of the screen displayed on a display input device at the time of the program editing in the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. The figure which showed an example of the screen displayed on a display input device at the time of the program editing in the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. Flowchart for explaining an operation when a program is edited in the image forming apparatus shown in FIG.

(Overall configuration of image forming apparatus)
As shown in FIG. 1, an image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment includes an operation panel 101 (corresponding to a “display input device”), a document conveying unit 102A, an image reading unit 102B, a sheet feeding unit 103, a sheet conveying unit 104, An image forming unit 105, a fixing unit 106, a post-processing unit 107, and the like are provided. Note that the image forming apparatus 100 is a multifunction peripheral, and can execute a plurality of types of jobs such as copying, transmission (scanning), and fax.

  The operation panel 101 is disposed on the front side of the apparatus, for example. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the operation panel 101 includes a liquid crystal display unit 12 (corresponding to a “display unit”) in which a touch panel unit 11 is provided on a display surface. The touch panel unit 11 is a multi-touch panel that can simultaneously detect a plurality of touch positions touched by a user. The liquid crystal display unit 12 displays a screen on which software keys and messages for accepting an input operation (touch operation) from a user are arranged. The screen displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 12 will be described in detail later. The touch panel unit 11 covering the display surface of the liquid crystal display unit 12 is provided to detect a soft key designated by the user (a soft key touched by the user via the touch panel unit 11). The operation panel 101 is also provided with a numeric keypad 13 that accepts numerical input, a start key 14 that accepts a job execution start instruction, and the like as hard keys.

  Returning to FIG. 1, the document conveying unit 102A is attached so as to be openable and closable around a rotating shaft (not shown) provided on the back side of the image reading unit 102B. The document conveying section 102A pulls out the document D set on the document setting tray 21, sends it to above the conveyance reading contact glass 20a, and discharges it to the document discharge tray 22. The document transport unit 102A also has a function of pressing the document D placed on the placement reading contact glass 20b.

  The image reading unit 102B reads the document D and generates image data. Although not shown, the image reading unit 102B is provided with optical system members such as an exposure lamp, a mirror, a lens, and an image sensor. Then, the image reading unit 102B irradiates the document D passing through the conveyance reading contact glass 20a or the document D placed on the placement reading contact glass 20b, and receives the reflected light from the document D. Image data is generated by A / D converting the output value of the image sensor. Thus, printing can be performed based on the image data obtained by the reading operation (scanning operation) of the document D by the image reading unit 102B. It is also possible to store image data obtained by a scanning operation.

  The paper feed unit 103 has a plurality of cassettes 31 for storing paper P, and supplies the paper P stored in the plurality of cassettes 31 to the paper transport unit 104. The paper feed unit 103 is provided with a pickup roller 32 that pulls out the stored paper P, and a separation roller pair 33 for suppressing double feeding of the paper P.

  The paper transport unit 104 transports the paper P inside the image forming apparatus 100. More specifically, the paper P supplied from the paper supply unit 103 passes through the image forming unit 105 and the fixing unit 106 in this order as the paper transport unit 104 transports the paper P. The paper transport unit 104 is provided with a plurality of transport roller pairs 41 for transporting the paper P. Furthermore, a registration roller pair 42 is also provided that waits for the paper P in front of the image forming unit 105 and sends the paper P to the image forming unit 105 in time.

  The image forming unit 105 forms a toner image based on the image data, and transfers the toner image onto the paper P. The image forming unit 105 includes a photosensitive drum 51, a charging device 52, an exposure device 53, a developing device 54, a transfer roller 55, a cleaning device 56, and the like.

  As a toner image forming process and a toner image transfer process, first, the photosensitive drum 51 is rotationally driven, and the surface of the photosensitive drum 51 is charged to a predetermined potential by the charging device 52. The exposure device 53 outputs a light beam L based on the image data, and scans and exposes the surface of the photosensitive drum 51. As a result, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 51. The developing device 54 develops toner by supplying toner to the electrostatic latent image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 51.

  The transfer roller 55 can rotate while being pressed against the surface of the photosensitive drum 51. Further, a predetermined voltage is applied to the transfer roller 55. In this state, the registration roller pair 42 measures the timing and causes the paper P to enter between the transfer roller 55 and the photosensitive drum 51. As a result, the toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 51 is transferred to the paper P. When the toner image transfer process is completed, the cleaning device 56 removes the toner remaining on the surface of the photosensitive drum 51.

  The fixing unit 106 heats and presses the toner image transferred onto the paper P to fix it. The fixing unit 106 includes a fixing roller 61 having a built-in heat source, and a pressure roller 62 that is pressed against the fixing roller 61. The paper P on which the toner image is transferred is heated and pressed by passing between the fixing roller 61 and the pressure roller 62. As a result, the toner image is fixed on the paper P, and the print job is completed.

  The post-processing unit 107 receives the printed paper P from the fixing unit 106 and performs post-processing such as sorting, stapling, and punching. Then, the post-processing unit 107 performs post-processing on the printed paper P and then discharges the paper P to the discharge tray 71.

(Hardware configuration of image forming apparatus)
As shown in FIG. 3, the image forming apparatus 100 includes a main control unit 110. The main control unit 110 includes a CPU 111 that is a central processing unit, an image processing unit 112, a storage unit 113, and the like. The image processing unit 112 includes an ASIC dedicated to image processing, a memory, and the like, and performs various types of image processing (enlargement / reduction, density conversion, data format conversion, etc.) on the image data. The storage unit 113 includes a ROM, a RAM, an HDD, and the like. For example, programs and data necessary for job execution are stored in the ROM, and the programs and data are expanded in the RAM.

  The main control unit 110 is connected to the document conveying unit 102A, the image reading unit 102B, the paper feeding unit 103, the paper conveying unit 104, the image forming unit 105, the fixing unit 106, the post-processing unit 107, and the like. The main control unit 110 performs overall control, image processing control, drive control of a motor that rotates various rotating bodies, and the like based on the program and data stored in the storage unit 113.

  The main control unit 110 is connected to the display control unit 15 that controls the display operation of the operation panel 101. The display control unit 15 includes a CPU or the like, receives an instruction from the main control unit 110, and controls the display operation of the operation panel 101. For example, when a soft key displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 12 is touched by the user via the touch panel unit 11, the display control unit 15 detects the coordinates of the touch position based on the output of the touch panel unit 11. That is, the display control unit 15 detects a soft key (a soft key designated by the user) touched by the user via the touch panel unit 11. A storage unit 16 is connected to the display control unit 15. Data indicating the correspondence between the output of the touch panel unit 11 and the coordinates of the touch position is stored in the storage unit 16.

  The main control unit 110 is connected to the communication unit 120. The communication unit 120 is connected to the external computer 200 through a network, for example, so that communication is possible. Accordingly, printing can be performed based on the image data transmitted from the computer 200, and the image data obtained by the scanning operation can also be transmitted to the computer 200. In addition, a modem or the like may be incorporated in the communication unit 120. In this case, fax communication can be performed with the external fax machine 300 via a network such as a telephone line.

(Operation panel display screen)
When the main power is turned on, the operation panel 101 displays a main menu screen MS as shown in FIG. 4 as an initial screen. For example, eight soft keys SK1 to SK8 are arranged on the main menu screen MS. When the touch position on the touch panel unit 11 is the display position of the soft key SK1, the operation panel 101 displays a setting screen SS1 for accepting copy job settings as shown in FIG.

  On the copy job setting screen SS1, a plurality of function keys FK respectively corresponding to a plurality of types of functions related to the copy job are arranged. FIG. 5 shows, as an example, a setting screen SS1 on which a plurality of function keys FK respectively corresponding to paper selection, reduction / enlargement, density, duplex / division, and page aggregation functions are arranged. In each of the plurality of function keys FK, the current set value of the corresponding function is written. As a result, the user can recognize the current setting values of the plurality of types of functions. In the setting screen SS1 shown in FIG. 5, the setting values described on the plurality of function keys FK respectively corresponding to paper selection, reduction / enlargement, density, duplex / division, and page aggregation are default setting values. is there.

  When the display position of the function key FK is touched by the user via the touch panel unit 11, the operation panel 101 displays the setting value input screen IS for changing the setting value of the function corresponding to the designated function key FK. (See FIG. 6) is displayed. In FIG. 6, a set value input screen IS for changing the set value for reduction / enlargement is illustrated as an example. For example, the user touches the display position of either the plus key K or the minus key K on the reduction / enlargement setting value input screen IS via the touch panel unit 11 to arbitrarily change the print magnification and print. It can be performed. Alternatively, the user touches the display position of the key K on which the magnification (paper size) is written on the reduction / enlargement setting value input screen IS through the touch panel unit 11, thereby displaying the specified key K. Printing can be performed at a printing magnification.

  Returning to FIG. 4, when the display position of the soft key SK2 is touched by the user via the touch panel unit 11, the operation panel 101 displays a setting screen (not shown) for accepting the setting of the transmission (scan) job. indicate. When the display position of the soft key SK3 is touched by the user via the touch panel unit 11, the operation panel 101 displays a setting screen (not shown) for accepting a fax job setting.

  When the display position of the soft key SK4 is touched by the user via the touch panel unit 11, the operation panel 101 performs printing based on data stored in the user box (for example, image data obtained by a scan job). A setting screen (not shown) for accepting settings necessary for execution is displayed. When the display position of the soft key SK5 is touched by the user via the touch panel unit 11, the operation panel 101 performs printing based on data stored in the job box (for example, image data transmitted from the computer 200). A setting screen (not shown) for accepting settings necessary for execution is displayed. When the display position of the soft key SK6 is touched by the user via the touch panel unit 11, the operation panel 101 performs printing based on data stored in the fax receiving box (fax data received by the communication unit 120). A setting screen (not shown) for accepting settings necessary for the operation is displayed. When the display position of the soft key SK7 is touched by the user via the touch panel unit 11, the operation panel 101 receives settings necessary for executing printing based on data stored in the external memory (USB). A setting screen (not shown) is displayed.

  When the display position of the soft key SK8 is touched by the user via the touch panel unit 11, the operation panel 101 receives an instruction to select a program to be called from among the registered programs as shown in FIG. The program selection screen PS is displayed. The program selection screen PS will be described in detail later.

(Call registered program)
In the present embodiment, the user selects a frequently used function (for example, a function that is used by changing a setting value different from the default setting value) from among a plurality of types of functions, and the selected function is set together with the setting value. It can be registered in advance. The storage unit 16 stores (registers) a program for setting the operation panel 101 in a setting state registered by the user. In other words, the storage unit 16 stores (registers) a program including data that defines one or more functions selected by the user among a plurality of types of functions together with setting values. Thus, from the user's point of view, the operation panel 101 is set to a desired function (setting value) simply by performing an operation for calling a program registered by the user, which is convenient.

  When such a program is stored in the storage unit 16, when the display position of the soft key SK8 is touched by the user via the touch panel unit 11 on the main menu screen MS (see FIG. 4), the display control unit 15 Displays a program selection screen PS as shown in FIG.

  On the program selection screen PS, a program key PK (program key PK for receiving a program calling instruction stored in the storage unit 16) corresponding to the registered program is arranged. If a plurality of programs are registered, a plurality of program keys PK respectively corresponding to the plurality of programs are arranged on the program selection screen PS. When the display position of the program key PK is touched by the user via the touch panel unit 11, the display control unit 15 calls the program corresponding to the designated program key PK from the storage unit 16.

  For example, it is assumed that setting values for duplex / split and page aggregation, which are functions related to a copy job, are changed from a default value (value shown in FIG. 5) and registered by a predetermined user. For example, it is assumed that the setting value for duplex / split is changed from “single side → single side” to “single side → double side”, and the setting value for page aggregation is changed from “not set” to “2 in 1”. Furthermore, it is assumed that the program key PK corresponding to the program registered by a predetermined user is the program key PK indicated as “program 6”. In this case, the predetermined user touches the display position of the program key PK indicated as “program 6” on the program selection screen PS via the touch panel unit 11 when calling the program registered by the user.

  At this time, the display control unit 15 detects that the program key PK written as “program 6” is designated based on the output of the touch panel unit 11. Then, the display control unit 15 displays a setting screen SS2 (see FIG. 8) based on the program corresponding to the designated program key PK.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the setting screen SS2 has a plurality of functions corresponding to the functions of paper selection, reduction / enlargement, density, duplex / division, and page aggregation, as in the setting screen SS1 shown in FIG. Key FK is arranged. However, while the setting values written in the function keys FK corresponding to paper selection, reduction / enlargement, and density remain the default values, the function keys FK corresponding to duplex / split and page aggregation, respectively. The setting value described in is changed from the default value. That is, the duplex / split setting value is set to “single side → double side”, and the page aggregation setting value is set to “2 in 1”. Accordingly, the user can execute a copy job in a desired setting state without performing an operation for changing each setting value of duplex / split and page aggregation.

(Edit registered program)
In the present embodiment, the user can edit a previously registered program while the program selection screen PS is displayed on the operation panel 101. In other words, the user can start editing the program without changing the display screen from the program selection screen PS to another screen, which is convenient.

  As shown in FIG. 9, a user who edits a program first displays a program selection screen PS on the operation panel 101. Then, the user touches two points of the display position of the program key PK corresponding to the program to be edited via the touch panel unit 11 and performs an operation of increasing the interval between the two points as it is. In the following description, for convenience, the program key PK touched by the user via the touch panel unit 11 at two points is referred to as a designated program key PK, and a program corresponding to the designated program key PK is referred to as a designated program.

  Based on the output of the touch panel unit 11, the display control unit 15 detects that the interval between the two points is widened while the two points on the touch panel unit 11 are touched at the display position of the designated program key PK. By this detection, the display control unit 15 controls the display operation of the liquid crystal display unit 12 to enlarge the display area of the designated program key PK. For example, when the interval between two points touched in the arrow A direction (vertical direction of the screen) in FIG. 9 is widened, the liquid crystal display unit 12 displays a designated program key in the vertical direction of the screen as shown in FIG. The display area of PK is enlarged. On the other hand, when the interval between the two points touched in the arrow B direction (horizontal direction of the screen) in FIG. 9 is widened, the liquid crystal display unit 12 displays the designated program in the horizontal direction of the screen as shown in FIG. The display area of the key PK is enlarged. Hereinafter, as an example, a description will be given assuming that the display area of the designated program key PK is enlarged in the vertical direction of the screen (the state shown in FIG. 10).

  In addition, the liquid crystal display unit 12 displays a function information image C (corresponding to “function information”) representing at least one of the function name and the set value of the function defined in the designated program in the display area of the designated program key PK. Display in units. For example, if there are a plurality of functions defined in the designated program, a plurality of function information images C representing at least one of the function names and setting values of the plurality of functions are displayed in the display area of the designated program key PK. The

  In the following description and the drawings referred to in the description, the case where both the function name and the set value are described in the function information image C is taken as an example. However, there is a case where the corresponding function can be determined only by the notation of the set value (the set value itself may represent the function). For example, the setting values “A3 → A4” and “122%” represent “reduction / enlargement”, and the setting values “4 in 1” and “2 in 1” represent “page aggregation”. Therefore, it is not essential to write the function name in the function information image C. For example, in the case of “page aggregation”, only the setting values “4 in 1” and “2 in 1” may be written in the function information image C. On the other hand, for black-and-white reverse printing (function to print with the white and black of the image reversed) and mirror image printing (function to print the document as if it was reflected in a mirror), “set” and “do not set” Two correspond to the set values. In this case, for example, if the setting value corresponding to the function information image C in which only the function names “black and white inversion” and “mirror image” are described as “set”, it is not necessary to indicate the setting value.

  Here, for example, it is assumed that the functions defined in the designated program are duplex / division (setting value is “single side → double side”) and page aggregation (setting value is “2 in 1”). In this case, the liquid crystal display unit 12 displays the function information image C in which the function name “double-sided / divided” and the set value “single-sided → double-sided” are displayed in the display area of the designated program key PK, and “page A function information image C in which the function name “aggregate” and the set value “2 in 1” are displayed is displayed.

  Further, the liquid crystal display unit 12 displays a function information image C (corresponding to “function information”) representing at least one of a function name and a setting value of a function not defined in the designated program outside the display area of the designated program key PK. indicate. As an example, FIG. 10 (FIG. 11) illustrates a plurality of function information images C corresponding to the functions of stapling, punching, sorting, page aggregation, duplex / division, reduction / enlargement, and margin. Yes.

  By the way, since there are many functions (setting values) that can be registered, the function information image C corresponding to the remaining functions (setting values) that are not registered may not fit within the screen. Therefore, the function information image C to be displayed outside the display area of the designated program key PK may be set in advance by the user. Alternatively, the function information image C displayed outside the display area of the designated program key PK may be switched by a user operation.

  For example, when the display control unit 15 detects that a touch operation for touching the finger outside the display area of the designated program key PK is performed on the touch panel unit 11, the display control unit 15 displays the display outside the display area of the designated program key PK. The liquid crystal display unit 12 is caused to switch the function information image C to be performed. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 10, a switching key CK may be arranged in the screen. In this case, when the touch panel unit 11 receives a touch operation on the display position of the switching key CK, the display control unit 15 switches the function information image C displayed outside the display area of the designated program key PK to the liquid crystal display unit 12. Let it be done.

  In addition, when the display area of the designated program key PK is enlarged, the liquid crystal display unit 12 makes the brightness of the display area outside the display area of the designated program PK darker than the brightness of the display area of the designated program key PK.

  In this way, the display control unit 15 shifts to the program editing mode for accepting editing of the designated program while the liquid crystal display unit 12 displays the program selection screen PS. In the program edit mode, no program call is accepted.

  Next, when the user wants to additionally register an unregistered function, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the user performs a drag-and-drop operation on the touch panel unit 11, thereby function name of the function to be additionally registered. The function information image C representing at least one of the set values is moved from outside the display area of the designated program key PK into the display area. As an example, FIGS. 12 and 13 show a case where “reduction / enlargement (A3 → A4)” is additionally registered.

  In addition, when the user deletes a registered function, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the user performs a drag-and-drop operation on the touch panel unit 11 to thereby delete the function name and setting value of the function to be deleted. Is moved from the display area of the designated program key PK to the outside of the display area. As an example, FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 illustrate a case where “page aggregation (2 in 1)” is deleted.

  When a click operation is performed by the user at the display position of the function information image C, a screen for accepting detailed setting of the function corresponding to the function information image C displayed at the click position may be displayed. In this case, for example, if the user performs a click operation at the display position of the function information image C corresponding to the reduction / enlargement, the set value input screen IS as shown in FIG. 6 is displayed. Thus, the user can additionally register the reduction / enlargement after changing the reduction rate (enlargement rate) to a desired magnification. When the setting value is changed in this way, the display control unit 15 causes the liquid crystal display unit 12 to display the function information image C in which the changed setting value is expressed.

  When a program editing operation is performed by the user, the display control unit 15 replaces the previous designated program with the function (setting value) corresponding to the function information image C currently existing in the display area of the designated program key PK. Is stored (rewritten) in the storage unit 16.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 16, the user who has finished editing the program touches two points at the display position of the designated program key PK via the touch panel unit 11 and performs an operation of reducing the interval between the two points as it is.

  Then, the display control unit 15 detects, based on the output of the touch panel unit 11, that the interval between the two points is narrowed while the two points on the touch panel unit 11 are touched at the display position of the designated program key PK. In response to this detection, the liquid crystal display unit 12 returns the size of the display area of the designated program key PK to the original size. Further, the liquid crystal display unit 12 returns the brightness of the darkened display area outside the display area of the designated program key PK to the original brightness. As a result, the program selection screen PS returns to the original state. That is, the program edit mode is released (the program can be called).

(Flow for editing a registered program)
The flow when editing a registered program will be described below along the flowchart shown in FIG.

  First, it is assumed that a program registered in advance by the user is stored in the storage unit 16 at the start of the flowchart of FIG. When the display position of the soft key SK8 (the key for transitioning to the program selection screen PS shown in FIG. 7) is touched by the user via the touch panel unit 11 on the main menu screen MS (see FIG. 4), The flowchart of FIG. 17 starts.

  In step S1, the display control unit 15 causes the liquid crystal display unit 12 to display the program selection screen PS on which the program key PK is arranged. In step S <b> 2, the display control unit 15 determines whether or not a touch operation has been performed on the touch panel unit 11 at the display position of the program key PK based on the output of the touch panel unit 11. As a result of the determination, if the touch operation on the touch panel unit 11 is performed at the display position of the program key PK, the process proceeds to step S3, and if the touch operation on the touch panel unit 11 is not performed at the display position of the program key PK, The determination in step S2 is repeated.

  In step S3, the display control unit 15 determines whether the touch operation on the touch panel unit 11 at the display position of the program key PK is a one-point touch. As a result of the determination, if the touch operation on the touch panel unit 11 is a one-point touch, the process proceeds to step S4. Then, the display control unit 15 displays functions and setting values defined in the program corresponding to the program key PK touched via the touch panel unit 11 (for example, a setting screen SS2 as shown in FIG. 8 is displayed). To do). That is, the function and setting values defined in the program registered by the user are set on the operation panel 101.

  On the other hand, when the touch operation on the touch panel unit 11 at the display position of the program key PK is not a one-point touch in step S3, the process proceeds to step S5. In step S5, based on the output of the touch panel unit 11, the display control unit 15 performs an operation to increase the interval between the two points while the two points of the touch panel unit 11 are touched at the display position of the program key PK. Judge whether or not. As a result of the determination, if an operation for increasing the interval between the two points is performed while the two points on the touch panel unit 11 are touched at the display position of the program key PK, the process proceeds to step S6. Hereinafter, the program key PK touched at two points via the touch panel unit 11 is referred to as a designated program key PK, and a program corresponding to the designated program key PK is referred to as a designated program.

  In step S5, when the operation of increasing the interval between the two points is not performed in a state where the two points on the touch panel unit 11 are touched, the process proceeds to step S2. For example, after the two points on the touch panel unit 11 are touched and the two-point touch is released before a predetermined time elapses, the display control unit 15 performs an operation to increase the interval between the two touched points. Judge that it is not done.

  When the process proceeds from step S5 to step S6, the display control unit 15 switches to the program edit mode. That is, the liquid crystal display unit 12 enlarges the display area of the designated program key PK. Further, the liquid crystal display unit 12 displays a function information image C representing at least one of the function name and the setting value of the function defined in the designated program in the display area of the designated program key PK, and displays the designated program key PK. A function information image C representing at least one of a function name and a setting value of a function not defined in the designated program is displayed outside the area. Further, the liquid crystal display unit 12 makes the brightness of the display area other than the display area of the designated program PK darker than the brightness of the display area of the designated program key PK.

  In step S <b> 7, the display control unit 15 determines whether an editing operation of the designated program has been performed based on the output of the touch panel unit 11. That is, the display control unit 15 determines whether or not the function information image C in the display area of the designated program key PK has been moved outside the display area of the designated program key PK by performing a drag and drop operation on the touch panel unit 11. (Whether or not the function information image C outside the display area of the designated program key PK has been moved into the display area of the designated program key PK). If it is determined that an editing operation for the designated program has been performed, the process proceeds to step S8.

  In step S8, the display control unit 15 stores a program in which a function corresponding to the function information image C currently existing in the display area of the designated program key PK is defined in place of the previous designated program. To remember (rewrite). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S9. In step S7, the process proceeds to step S9 even when the editing operation of the designated program is not performed.

  In step S <b> 9, based on the output of the touch panel unit 11, the display control unit 15 has performed an operation for narrowing the interval between the two points while the two points on the touch panel unit 11 are touched at the display position of the designated program key PK. Determine whether. As a result of the determination, if an operation for narrowing the interval between the two points is performed in a state where the two points on the touch panel unit 11 are touched at the display position of the designated program key PK, the process proceeds to step S10. On the other hand, when the operation of reducing the interval between the two points is not performed in a state where the two points on the touch panel unit 11 are touched at the display position of the designated program key PK, the process proceeds to step S7.

  In step S10, the display control unit 15 cancels the program edit mode and switches to the normal mode. That is, the liquid crystal display unit 12 returns the size of the display area of the designated program key PK to the original size. In addition, the liquid crystal display unit 12 hides the function information image C that is displayed inside and outside the display area of the designated program key PK. Further, the liquid crystal display unit 12 returns the brightness of the display area outside the display area of the designated program key PK to the original brightness. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S2.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the liquid crystal display unit 12 (display unit) has been operated by the touch panel unit 11 to increase the interval between the two points while the two points are touched at the display position of the program key PK. In this case, a function information image C (function information) representing at least one of the function name and the set value of the function defined in the program corresponding to the program key PK is displayed in the display area of the program key PK. As a result, when the user wants to check the functions and setting values defined in the registered program when the program selection screen PS is displayed, the interval between two touch points on the touch panel unit 11 at the display position of the program key PK. The registration contents can be confirmed simply by performing an operation to widen, which is convenient. In addition, since there is no need to make a transition from the program selection screen PS to the registration content confirmation screen, the registration content can be confirmed quickly (the effort to find a key for making a transition to the registration content confirmation screen can be saved), which is convenient. good. As a result, the convenience of the registration confirmation operation by the user is improved.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the liquid crystal display unit 12 enlarges the display area of the program key PK when displaying the function information image C in the display area of the program key PK. Thereby, even if the user has registered a large number of functions, the function information image C representing at least one of the function name and the setting value of each of the large number of functions is collectively displayed in the display area of the program key PK. be able to. For this reason, the convenience of the confirmation work of the registered content by the user is further improved.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, when the touch panel unit 11 receives a drag and drop operation for moving the function information image C in the display area of the program key PK to the outside of the display area of the program key PK, The storage unit 16 rewrites the program corresponding to the program key PK into a program in which the function corresponding to the function information image C currently existing in the display area of the program key PK is defined. Accordingly, when the user wants to edit the program (deletes the registered function), the user performs a drag-and-drop operation on the touch panel unit 11 (the function information image C in the display area of the program key PK is displayed as the program key). The program can be edited simply by moving it outside the PK display area, which is convenient. Further, since there is no need to make a transition from the program selection screen PS to the program editing screen, it is possible to edit the program quickly (saving the trouble of searching for a key for making a transition to the program editing screen), which is convenient.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, when the display area of the program key PK is enlarged, the liquid crystal display unit 12 is not defined in the program corresponding to the program key PK outside the display area of the program key PK. A function information image C representing at least one of the function name and setting value of the function is displayed. This makes it convenient for the user to check unregistered functions at the same time.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, when the touch panel unit 11 receives a drag-and-drop operation for moving the function information image C outside the display area of the program key PK into the display area of the program key PK, The storage unit 16 rewrites the program corresponding to the program key PK into a program in which the function corresponding to the function information image C currently existing in the display area of the program key PK is defined. Thus, when the user wants to edit the program (additional registration of an unregistered function), the user performs a drag and drop operation on the touch panel unit 11 (programs the function information image C outside the display area of the program key PK). The program can be edited simply by moving it to the display area of the key PK, which is convenient. Further, since there is no need to make a transition from the program selection screen PS to the program editing screen, it is possible to edit the program quickly (saving the trouble of searching for a key for making a transition to the program editing screen), which is convenient.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the liquid crystal display unit 12 expands the display area of the program key PK and then touches at least two points on the touch panel unit 11 at the display position of the program key PK. When an operation for narrowing the interval between the two points is performed, the size of the display area of the program key PK is returned to the original size, and the function information image C is not displayed. Thus, the user can easily return the program selection screen PS to the original state (a state in which a registered program can be called), which is convenient.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, when the display area of the program key PK is enlarged, the liquid crystal display unit 12 determines the brightness of the display area outside the display area of the program key PK as the display area of the program key PK. Make it darker than. Thereby, it is easy for the user to identify whether or not the mode for confirming the registered content (mode for editing the program) has been entered, which is convenient.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the liquid crystal display unit 12 expands the display area of the program key PK, and then, at the display position of the program key PK, at least two points are touched. When the touch panel unit 11 receives an operation to narrow the screen, the brightness of the darkened display area outside the display area of the program key PK is returned to the original brightness. Accordingly, it is easy for the user to identify whether or not the mode has been returned from the mode for confirming the registered content (the mode for editing the program) to the normal mode, which is convenient.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, when the liquid crystal display unit 12 receives an operation of widening the interval between two points while at least two points are touched at the display position of the program key PK, The display area of the program key PK is expanded in the direction in which the interval between two points that are touch positions on the touch panel unit 11 is widened. Thereby, the display area of the program key PK can be expanded in the direction desired by the user.

  It should be thought that embodiment disclosed this time is an illustration and restrictive at no points. The scope of the present invention is shown not by the description of the above-described embodiment but by the scope of claims for patent, and further includes meanings equivalent to the scope of claims for patent and all modifications within the scope.

11 Touch Panel 12 Liquid Crystal Display (Display)
16 Storage Unit 100 Image Forming Apparatus 101 Operation Panel (Display Input Device)
C Function information image (Function information)
PK program key PS program selection screen

Claims (9)

One or more selected functions of the plurality of functions include data defined together with setting values, and store a pre-registered program for setting the display input device in the setting state defined in the data A storage unit;
A display unit for displaying a program selection screen provided with a program key for accepting an instruction to call a program stored in the storage unit;
A touch panel unit provided for the display unit for detecting a plurality of touch positions touched by the user,
When the touch panel unit accepts an operation of widening the interval between two points while the two points are touched at the display position of the program key, the display unit expands the display area of the program key, and A display input device for displaying function information representing at least one of a function name and a setting value of a function defined in the program corresponding to the program key in the display area.   When the touch panel unit accepts an operation for moving the function information in the program key display area to the outside of the program key display area, the storage unit stores the program corresponding to the program key at the present time. The display input device according to claim 1, wherein the function is rewritten to a program in which a function corresponding to the function information existing in a display area of the program key is defined.   When the display area of the program key is enlarged, the display unit displays at least one of a function name and a setting value of a function not defined in the program corresponding to the program key outside the program key display area. The display input device according to claim 1, wherein information is displayed.   When the touch panel unit receives an operation for moving the function information outside the program key display area into the program key display area, the storage unit stores the program corresponding to the program key at the present time. 4. The display input device according to claim 3, wherein the display input device is rewritten to a program in which a function corresponding to the function information existing in a display area of the program key is defined.   When the touch panel unit receives an operation for narrowing the interval between two points while the two points are touched at the display position of the program key after the display area of the program key is enlarged, 5. The display input device according to claim 1, wherein the display area of the key is returned to an original size to hide the function information.   The display unit, when enlarging the display area of the program key, makes the brightness of the display area outside the display area of the program key darker than the brightness of the display area of the program key. The display input device according to any one of 1 to 5.   When the touch panel unit receives an operation for narrowing the interval between two points while the two points are touched at the display position of the program key after the display area of the program key is enlarged, 7. The display input device according to claim 6, wherein the brightness of the darkened display area outside the key display area is returned to the original brightness.   In the display position of the program key, when the touch panel unit accepts an operation of widening the interval between two points while the two points are touched, the display unit has a two-point interval that is a touch position with respect to the touch panel unit. The display input device according to claim 1, wherein a display area of the program key is expanded in an expanded direction.   An image forming apparatus comprising the display input device according to claim 1.

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