JP5373666B2 - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming apparatus which can effectively display information displayed on an operation panel in a standby mode. <P>SOLUTION: The image forming apparatus 150 includes: an operation panel 166 with a display panel 172 provided on its upper surface; a shaft 174 for rotating the operation panel 166 downward so as to have a predetermined inclination angle relative to a horizontal surface when the image forming apparatus 150 is horizontally installed; an angle sensor for detecting the predetermined inclination angle formed between the upper surface of the operation panel 166 and the horizontal surface; an energy saving controller configured such that when a predetermined time, which is preliminarily determined, elapses in a state where there is no operation performed for the apparatus 150, the operation mode of the apparatus is shifted from a regular mode to the standby mode; and a display controller configured such that when the operation mode of the apparatus is shifted to the standby mode, predetermined information is displayed on the display panel 172 as a screen saver according to the detection result of the angle sensor so as to correspond to a difference in a browsing property on the display panel 172. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&amp;INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, and more particularly to a technique related to display on an operation panel in a standby mode.

  In recent years, in an image forming apparatus such as a multifunction peripheral, a technique for further improving the visibility and operability of an operation panel for a user who uses a wheelchair is known.

  For example, Patent Document 1 listed below is an image forming apparatus provided with an operation panel having a liquid crystal display unit on which a predetermined screen is displayed, and the operation panel is set to a first position in a lying state. , An operation panel support section that can be selectively changed to a second position that rises at a predetermined angle, an angle sensor that detects that the operation panel is in the second position, and the operation panel is a second position. There is disclosed an image forming apparatus including a display control unit that displays a screen displayed on a liquid crystal display unit in an enlarged position as compared with the case of being in a first position.

  Patent Document 2 listed below is an image forming apparatus having an operation panel unit including a liquid crystal touch panel unit for inputting and displaying setting conditions, and capable of changing an inclination angle of the operation panel unit. An operation panel angle detection unit that detects the tilt angle of the panel unit, and when the tilt angle of the operation panel unit is equal to or greater than a predetermined angle, the display content of the liquid crystal touch panel unit is changed from the setting input screen to the document placement method display screen or An image forming apparatus having a control unit and a liquid crystal display control unit for changing to a button enlargement screen is disclosed.

  Some image forming apparatuses have a function of shifting to a standby mode (sometimes referred to as an energy saving mode, a sleep mode, etc.) when a predetermined time elapses without being operated by a user. . In such an image forming apparatus, a technique for displaying a screen saver for the purpose of advertisement and promotion on a display panel during a standby mode is conceivable.

JP 2006-209011 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2003-323084

  The technology disclosed in Patent Literature 1 and Patent Literature 2 is a technology for a user who directly operates an image forming apparatus, and in particular, the visibility of an operation panel for a specific user such as a user who uses a wheelchair. And improve operability. Accordingly, no consideration is given to the display of information when there is no user who directly operates the image forming apparatus, such as in the standby mode.

  In addition, since the operation panel normally displays the screen in a direction that considers the visibility of the user who directly operates the image forming apparatus, it is intended for advertisement and promotion during the standby mode in which there is no user who directly operates the image forming apparatus. Even if the screen saver is displayed, the advertising effect is low and power consumption may be wasted.

  An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of effectively displaying information displayed on an operation panel in a standby mode.

  An image forming apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention includes an operation panel provided with a display unit on an upper surface, and rotation for rotating the operation panel downward so as to have a predetermined inclination angle with respect to a predetermined surface. Means, an inclination angle detecting means for detecting a predetermined inclination angle formed by the upper surface of the operation panel and a predetermined surface, and when a predetermined time elapses without any operation on the apparatus, When the operation mode of the apparatus is shifted to the standby mode by the mode transition means for shifting the operation mode from the normal mode to the standby mode, and the mode transition means, the display is performed according to the detection result of the inclination angle detection means. Display control means for causing the unit to display predetermined information as a screen saver corresponding to the difference in viewability of the display unit.

  The visibility of the display unit for an unspecified person existing around the image forming apparatus varies depending on the tilt angle of the operation panel. Therefore, when the operation mode of the apparatus is shifted to the standby mode, the image forming apparatus is predetermined with respect to the display unit corresponding to the difference in viewability of the display unit according to the inclination angle of the operation panel. By displaying this information as a screen saver, it is possible to display information targeting an unspecified person existing around the apparatus even in a standby mode where there is no user who directly operates the image forming apparatus. Therefore, the information displayed in the standby mode can be effectively displayed.

  Preferably, the display control unit turns off the display on the display unit when the predetermined first tilt angle is detected as the predetermined tilt angle by the tilt angle detecting unit. As described above, the image forming apparatus turns off the display of the display unit when, for example, the operation panel has an inclination angle with which the display unit is not easily viewed by an unspecified person around the image forming apparatus. Therefore, it is possible to prevent unnecessary information from being displayed. Therefore, useless power consumption can be reduced.

  More preferably, the predetermined first inclination angle is 0 °. More preferably, the predetermined first inclination angle takes a predetermined value within a range of 0 ° to 45 °. As a result, it is possible to more reliably prevent unnecessary information from being displayed, and it is possible to more reliably reduce wasteful power consumption.

  More preferably, when the second inclination angle larger than the first inclination angle is detected as the predetermined inclination angle by the inclination angle detection means, the display control means is a general person with respect to the display unit. Display general-purpose content targeted for as a screen saver. In this way, the image forming apparatus displays contents for general use, for example, when the operation panel takes a tilt angle that allows the display unit to be easily viewed by an unspecified person around the image forming apparatus. Therefore, the information displayed in the standby mode can be displayed more effectively.

  More preferably, the second inclination angle takes a predetermined value within a range of 46 ° to 60 °. Thereby, in the standby mode, it is possible to display the general content in a state where the advertising effect is further enhanced.

  More preferably, the content for general use is at least advertisement information related to the store where the image forming apparatus is installed, information related to coupons usable in the installed store, advertisement information related to nearby stores, and usable in nearby stores. Any one of the information regarding a coupon is included. As a result, it is possible to display information of high interest to the general public in a state where the advertising effect is even higher.

  More preferably, when the tilt angle detecting unit detects a third tilt angle larger than the second tilt angle as the predetermined tilt angle, the display control unit targets the display unit with respect to the child. The content for children is displayed as a screen saver. As described above, the image forming apparatus displays the content for children when the operation panel has an inclination angle that allows the display unit to be easily viewed with respect to an unspecified child existing around the image forming apparatus. Therefore, the information displayed in the standby mode can be displayed more effectively.

  More preferably, the image forming apparatus further includes time determination means for determining whether or not the current time is within a predetermined range that is predetermined as a time range suitable for displaying content for children. The display control unit causes the display unit to display the content for children as a screen saver when the time determination unit determines that the current time is within a predetermined range. Thereby, in the standby mode, the content for children can be displayed in a state where the advertising effect is further enhanced.

  More preferably, the third inclination angle takes a predetermined value within a range of 61 ° to 90 °. Thereby, in the standby mode, the content for children can be displayed in a state where the advertising effect is higher.

  More preferably, the content for children includes advertisement information of a product for children. This makes it possible to display information that is highly interested for children in a state in which the advertising effect is even higher.

  More preferably, the image forming apparatus further includes state determination means for determining whether or not the apparatus is in a trouble state, and the display control means uses the inclination angle detection means to set the second inclination as the predetermined inclination angle. When the angle or the third tilt angle is detected, and the state determination means determines that the device is in a trouble state, trouble information indicating the trouble content is displayed as a screen saver on the display unit. Display. As described above, when the apparatus is in a trouble state, the trouble information is displayed with priority, so that information important to the user can be displayed more effectively.

  More preferably, when the second inclination angle is detected as the predetermined inclination angle by the inclination angle detecting means, the display control means causes the display unit to display the general content together with the trouble information on the display section. When the inclination angle 3 is detected, the content for children is displayed on the display unit together with the trouble information. As described above, the content for general use or the content for children is displayed together with the trouble information, so that information important to the user and information of high interest can be displayed more effectively.

  More preferably, the image forming apparatus further includes an adjusting unit that adjusts contrast of an image displayed on the display unit based on a detection result of the tilt angle detecting unit. Thus, it is possible to prevent the image displayed on the display unit from being difficult to see due to external light when the operation panel is rotated.

  According to the present invention, when the operation mode of the apparatus is shifted to the standby mode, the image forming apparatus responds to the difference in viewability of the display unit with respect to the display unit according to the tilt angle of the operation panel. By displaying predetermined information as a screen saver, it is possible to display information targeted at unspecified persons around the apparatus even in a standby mode in which there is no user directly operating the image forming apparatus. it can. Therefore, the information displayed in the standby mode can be effectively displayed.

1 is a diagram illustrating an external configuration of an image forming apparatus. 1 is a diagram illustrating a simplified internal configuration of an image forming apparatus. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical configuration of the image forming apparatus. FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an external configuration of an image forming apparatus when an operation panel is rotated. It is an enlarged view which shows the structure of an operation panel. It is a functional block diagram of a control part. It is a figure which shows the program structure for implement | achieving a screen saver display process in the flowchart format. It is a figure which shows an example of the display state of a display panel. It is a figure which shows an example of the display state of a display panel. It is a figure which shows an example of the display state of a display panel. It is a figure which shows an example of the display state of a display panel. It is a figure which shows an example of the display state of a display panel. It is a figure which shows an example of the display state of a display panel.

  In the following description and drawings, the same reference numerals and names are assigned to the same components. Their functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

[Image forming apparatus 150]
<Hardware configuration>
With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the image forming apparatus 150 includes a document reading unit 152, an image forming unit 154, a paper feeding unit 156, and a paper discharge processing device 158. The image forming apparatus 150 forms an image on a recording sheet by an electrophotographic method. The operation mode of the image forming apparatus 150 is set by the user by setting the operation mode to one of a copy mode, a facsimile mode (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “FAX mode”), and a scanner mode. The job corresponding to is executed. Further, in the image forming apparatus 150, when a predetermined time elapses without any operation on the image forming apparatus 150 such as user operation and data reception, the operation mode is changed from the normal mode to the standby mode. And migrate. Here, the standby mode refers to an operation mode in which power supply to each unit not related to the display operation of the display panel 172 described later is turned off. Hereinafter, the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 150 will be described by describing the operation in each mode described above except the standby mode.

-Copy mode-
Hereinafter, the operation of the image forming apparatus 150 in the copy mode will be described. In the copy mode, the copy function is realized mainly by operating the document reading unit 152 and the image forming unit 154.

  When the copy mode is set in the image forming apparatus 150, the document placed on the document placement table is read as image data by the document reading unit 152. The read image data is input to a CPU 304 including a microcomputer shown in FIG. 3, where various image processing is performed and then output to an image forming unit 154.

  The image forming unit 154 prints a document image on a recording medium (in many cases, a recording sheet) based on the image data. The image forming unit 154 includes a photosensitive drum 222, a charging device 224, a laser scan unit (hereinafter referred to as “LSU”) 226, a developing device 228, a transfer device 230, a cleaning device 232, a fixing device 234, and a charge removal device (not shown). Including devices.

  The image forming unit 154 is provided with a main transport path 236 and a reverse transport path 238. The paper feeding unit 156 pulls out the recording paper stored in the paper cassette 240 or the recording paper placed on the manual feed tray 242 one by one, and directs the drawn recording paper toward the main conveyance path 236 of the image forming unit 154. And send it out. The recording paper fed from the paper feed unit 156 is transported along the main transport path 236.

  While the recording paper is being conveyed along the main conveyance path 236, the recording paper passes between the photosensitive drum 222 and the transfer device 230 and further passes through the fixing device 234. In this process, the document image is printed on the recording paper.

  The photosensitive drum 222 rotates in one direction. The surface of the photosensitive drum 222 is cleaned by the cleaning device 232 and the static eliminator and then uniformly charged by the charging device 224.

  The LSU 226 modulates the laser beam based on the image data to be printed, and repeatedly scans the surface of the photosensitive drum 222 in the main scanning direction with this laser beam, thereby causing the electrostatic latent image to be on the surface of the photosensitive drum 222. Form.

  The developing device 228 supplies toner to the surface of the photosensitive drum 222 to develop the electrostatic latent image, thereby forming a toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 222.

  The transfer device 230 transfers the toner image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 222 to a recording sheet that passes between the transfer device 230 and the photosensitive drum 222.

  The fixing device 234 includes a heating roller 248 for heating the recording paper and a pressure roller 250 for pressing the recording paper. The toner image transferred onto the recording paper is heated by the heating roller 248 and is pressed by the pressure roller 250 to be fixed on the recording paper. The temperature of the heating roller 248 is controlled to be a temperature suitable for fixing by heating the heater with electric power supplied to the fixing device 234.

  A branching claw 244 is disposed at a connection position between the main conveyance path 236 and the reverse conveyance path 238. When printing a document image on only one side of the recording paper, the branch claw 244 is positioned, and the branch claw 244 moves the recording paper from the fixing device 234 toward the paper discharge tray 246 or the paper discharge processing device 158. Led.

  When printing an original image on both sides of the recording paper, the branching claw 244 is rotated in a predetermined direction, and the recording paper is guided toward the reverse conveyance path 238 by the branching claw 244. The recording sheet passes through the reverse conveyance path 238 and is conveyed again to the main conveyance path 236 with its front and back being reversed. During the second conveyance in the main conveyance path 236, printing on the back surface of the recording paper is performed, and the recording paper on which the printing has been performed is guided toward the paper discharge tray 246 or the paper discharge processing device 158.

  The recording paper on which the document image is printed as described above is guided toward the paper discharge tray 246 or the paper discharge processing device 158 and discharged to the paper discharge tray 246 or is stored in the paper discharge processing device 158. The paper is discharged to one of the paper discharge trays 168.

  In the paper discharge processing device 158, processing for sorting and discharging a plurality of recording papers to each paper discharge tray 168, processing for punching the recording paper, processing for stapling the recording paper, and the like are performed. For example, when creating a plurality of printed materials, the recording paper is sorted and discharged to each paper discharge tray 168 so that a part of the printed material is allocated to each paper discharge tray 168, and is output for each paper discharge tray 168. Then, the recording paper on the paper discharge tray 168 is punched or stapled to create a printed matter.

-Facsimile mode-
Hereinafter, the operation of the image forming apparatus 150 in the facsimile mode will be described. In the facsimile mode, mainly, the transmission operation is performed by the document reading unit 152 and the FAX communication unit 155 shown in FIG. 3, the communication operation is performed by the FAX communication unit 155, and the reception operation is performed by the FAX communication unit 155. The facsimile function is realized by the operation of the image forming unit 154.

・ Transmission operation
When the facsimile mode is set in the image forming apparatus 150, the document placed on the document table is read as image data by the document reading unit 152. The read image data is input to the CPU 304, where various image processing is performed, and then output to the FAX communication unit 155.

  The FAX communication unit 155 of the image forming apparatus 150 on the transmission side connects the specified transmission line to the specified transmission destination, converts the image data into communication data that conforms to the facsimile communication standard, and then converts the image data to the reception side. The data is transmitted to a facsimile machine (for example, image forming apparatus 150 having a facsimile function).

Communication operation When the line is connected, the FAX communication unit 155 of the image forming apparatus 150 on the receiving side detects a communication request signal from the FAX communication unit 155 of the image forming apparatus 150 on the transmitting side, and transmits a response signal. To do. After that, for example, the FAX communication unit 155 transfers the capability information implemented on the transmission side and the reception side, and determines the communication speed and the encoding / code correction method of the image data at the maximum available capability. To set the modem communication method. Data is transmitted from the FAX communication unit 155 of the image forming apparatus 150 on the transmission side to the FAX communication unit 155 of the image forming apparatus 150 on the reception side using an image signal format adapted to this communication method. When transmission is completed, the line is disconnected.

Receive operation
The FAX communication unit 155 of the image forming apparatus 150 on the receiving side converts the received data into image data and sends it to the image forming unit 154. The received data may be converted into image data by the image forming unit 154. The image forming unit 154 prints an image based on the image data converted from the received data on a recording sheet in the same manner as the operation in the copy mode described above.

-Scanner mode-
Hereinafter, the operation of the image forming apparatus 150 in the scanner mode will be described. In the scanner mode, the scanner function is realized mainly by the operation of the document reading unit 152.

  When the scanner mode is set in the image forming apparatus 150, the document placed on the document table is read as image data by the document reading unit 152. The read image data is input to the CPU 304 and subjected to various types of image processing, and then stored in a storage device (for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 302 shown in FIG. 3) or shown in FIG. It is transmitted to a computer or the like connected to a network line via a network interface (hereinafter referred to as “network I / F”) 300.

<Electrical configuration>
Referring to FIG. 3, image forming apparatus 150 further includes an operation panel 166 capable of setting various functions related to a copy mode, a FAX mode, and a scanner mode, and a ROM (Read Only Memory) for storing a program and the like. 306, HDD 302 including a hard disk that provides a non-volatile storage area capable of storing a program and data even when power is cut off, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) that provides a storage area when executing the program 308 and a display memory 309 for storing image data to be displayed on the display panel 172 of the operation panel 166.

  The image forming apparatus 150 is further connected to a bus 310 connected to the document reading unit 152, the image forming unit 154, the FAX communication unit 155, the operation panel 166, the HDD 302, the ROM 306, the RAM 308, and the display memory 309, and the bus 310. And a CPU 304 for controlling the above-described units to realize general functions as an image forming apparatus.

  The ROM 306 stores programs, data, and the like necessary for controlling the operation of the image forming apparatus 150. The RAM 308 provides a function as a working memory that temporarily stores the results of calculation and processing by the CPU 304 and a function as a frame memory that stores image data. The CPU 304 executes control related to each function of the image forming apparatus 150 in accordance with programs and data stored in the ROM 306. That is, the CPU 304 controls the document reading unit 152, the image forming unit 154, the FAX communication unit 155, the plate-like operation unit 170 of the operation panel 166, the display panel 172, the HDD 302, the ROM 306, the RAM 308, and the display memory 309. This is realized by executing the program. The CPU 304, HDD 302, ROM 306, and RAM 308 constitute the control unit 400.

  As shown in FIG. 3, a public line is connected to the FAX communication unit 155 of the image forming apparatus 150 for transmission / reception of image data, and a network line is connected to the network I / F 300. A computer that uses the image forming apparatus 150 as a network compatible printer is connected to the network line, or a computer specified by a URL specified via the Internet is connected. As described above, the image forming apparatus 150 connected to the Internet through the network line can acquire necessary information from the external apparatus via the Internet.

[Operation Panel 166]
Referring to FIG. 1, operation panel 166 is attached to the upper front side of image forming apparatus 150 so as to be rotatable around shaft 174. The operation panel 166 includes a plate-like operation unit 170 provided with a hardware key that is a numeric keypad and other various operation buttons, which is arranged in the right region on the surface of the operation panel 166, and a central portion of the operation panel 166. And a display panel 172 configured from a small touch panel integrated liquid crystal display device disposed in the left region. The operation unit 170 and the display panel 172 are held in one housing, and the operation panel 166 is configured to be integrated as a whole.

  On the operation panel 166, the display panel 172 displays menus of various modes in the image forming apparatus 150, the current state of the image forming apparatus 150, a destination designation state, a job processing state, a screen saver, and the like. A selection button is displayed on the display area of the liquid crystal display device of the display panel 172. When the user presses the area where the selection button is displayed with a finger, the touch panel detects the pressed position. By comparing the display position of the selection button with the position where the touch panel is pressed on the program, function setting, operation instruction, and the like of the image forming apparatus 150 are performed.

  In the vicinity of the display panel 172, an error display unit 173 for displaying an error when the image forming apparatus 150 enters a trouble state is provided. Here, the trouble state indicates a state in which the image forming apparatus 150 cannot execute the job normally, such as a toner out state, a paper out state, and a paper jam state. The error display unit 173 includes an LED (Light Emitting Diode). The error display portion 173 is normally turned off, and lights up in red when a trouble state occurs. Note that the configuration of the error display unit 173 is not limited to the above-described configuration. For example, the error display unit 173 may be configured to light up in green during normal operation and to light up in red when a trouble state occurs.

  A shaft 174 extending in the longitudinal direction of the operation panel 166 is rotatably attached to the lower surface of the operation panel 166 and on the main body side of the image forming apparatus 150. Therefore, the user can rotate the operation panel 166 around the shaft 174 by applying a force to the operation panel 166 in the rotation direction. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that operation panel 166 is rotatable downward with reference to a state where the upper surface of operation panel 166 is positioned in parallel to the horizontal plane (see FIG. 1).

  FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an external configuration of the image forming apparatus 150 when the operation panel 166 is rotated. In the present embodiment, the operation panel 166 has a first position that takes the first inclination angle θ1 (see FIG. 4), a second position that takes the second inclination angle θ2, and Three positions can be taken as indicated by a third position with an inclination angle θ3 of three. Here, the inclination angle indicates an angle formed by the upper surface of the operation panel 166 and the horizontal plane. The first inclination angle θ1 described above takes a predetermined value within a range of 0 ° to 45 °, and is particularly preferably 0 °. The second inclination angle θ2 takes a predetermined value within a range of 46 ° to 60 °. The third inclination angle θ3 takes a predetermined value within a range of 61 ° to 90 °.

  The visibility of the display panel 172 for an unspecified person existing around the image forming apparatus 150 varies depending on the tilt angle of the operation panel 166. For example, when the operation panel 166 is rotated so as to take the second position or the third position, the display on the display panel 172 is more viewed by an unspecified person around the image forming apparatus 150. Easy state. In particular, when the operation panel 166 is rotated so as to take the third position having a larger inclination angle, the display on the display panel 172 is displayed on the periphery of the image forming apparatus 150. It will be in a state where it is easier to browse. Further, when the visibility of the display panel 172 for an unspecified person existing around the image forming apparatus 150 is not particularly required and when the visibility of the display panel 172 needs to be lowered, the display panel is displayed. By rotating the operation panel 166 so as to take the first position of 172 having poor browsing property, it is possible to make the display of the display panel 172 more difficult to view.

  FIG. 5 is an enlarged view showing the configuration of the operation panel 166. Referring to FIG. 5, an angle sensor 175 for detecting an inclination angle of operation panel 166 is attached to one end portion of shaft 174. The angle sensor 175 is not particularly limited as long as it can detect the tilt angle of the operation panel 166. For example, a sensor made of a variable resistor can be used. The angle sensor 175 detects a change in the tilt angle of the operation panel 166 as a change in resistance value and outputs the change to the control unit 400.

[Control unit 400]
FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of the control unit 400. Referring to FIG. 6, control unit 400 includes standby determination unit 601, energy saving control unit 602, position determination unit 603, state determination unit 604, clock circuit 605, display control unit 606, and print control unit. 607. Each unit described above is actually realized by a computer program executed by the CPU 304.

  The standby determination unit 601 receives a data received by the FAX communication unit 155 or the network I / F 300 or when a predetermined time elapses without an instruction to execute a job by a user input operation from the operation panel 166. In addition, an instruction for shifting the operation mode of the image forming apparatus 150 from the normal mode to the standby mode is issued to the energy saving control unit 602. Although it does not specifically limit as said predetermined time, For example, it is 1 minute-5 minutes, and shall be preset by the input operation from the operation panel 166 by a user.

  In response to an instruction from the standby determination unit 601, the energy saving control unit 602 shifts the operation mode of the image forming apparatus 150 from the normal mode to the standby mode.

  Based on the detection result of the angle sensor 175 that outputs a change in the tilt angle of the operation panel 166 as a change in resistance value, the position determination unit 603 determines that the operation panel 166 has the first position, the second position, and the second position. It is determined which of the three positions is taken.

  The state determination unit 604 determines whether the image forming apparatus 150 is in a trouble state.

  The clock circuit 605 determines whether or not the current time is within a predetermined range that is predetermined as a time range suitable for displaying content for children. Although the predetermined range described above is not particularly limited, for example, a range from 14:00 to 15:00 is preferable, and is set in advance by an input operation from the operation panel 166 by the user.

  The display control unit 606 controls display on the display panel 172. For example, when the operation mode of the image forming apparatus 150 is shifted to the standby mode, the display control unit 606 causes the display panel 172 to differ in viewability according to the detection result of the angle sensor 175. Correspondingly, predetermined information is displayed as a screen saver. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the predetermined information is stored in the display memory 309 in advance. Such information can be obtained, for example, by downloading to the display memory 309 from an external computer or server connected to the network line via the network I / F 300. Table 1 shows an example of the predetermined information described above.

Referring to Table 1, the display memory 309 stores the position of the operation panel 166, other factors, and corresponding information to be displayed as the above-described predetermined information in association with each other. For example, when the operation panel 166 is in the second position and the image forming apparatus 150 is in a trouble state, the corresponding information is trouble information indicating the content of the trouble. When the operation panel 166 is in the second position and the image forming apparatus 150 is in a state other than the trouble state, the corresponding information is general contents such as advertisements and advertisements for general persons. It is. Examples of the above-mentioned general content include advertisement information such as new products, best-selling products, and sale items in stores where the image forming apparatus 150 is installed, information on coupons that can be used in stores where the image forming apparatus 150 is installed, and surrounding areas Advertising information related to other stores, information related to coupons that can be used in stores in the surrounding area, and the like.

  Further, when the operation panel 166 takes the third position and the current time is a time within a predetermined range, the corresponding information is content for children intended for children. The above-mentioned content for children includes, for example, advertisement information of products for children such as toys and confectionery at the store where the image forming apparatus 150 is installed. When the operation panel 166 takes the third position and the current time is outside a predetermined range, and the image forming apparatus 150 is in a trouble state, the corresponding information is trouble information. . When the operation panel 166 takes the third position and the current time is outside a predetermined range, and the image forming apparatus 150 is in another state, the corresponding information is It is.

  The display control unit 606 further adjusts the contrast of the image displayed on the display panel 172 based on the detection result of the angle sensor 175.

  When a print job execution instruction is input from the operation panel 166 by a user input operation, the print control unit 607 controls each unit of the image forming apparatus 150 and executes the print job.

<Software configuration>
(Screen saver display processing)
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a program structure for realizing the screen saver display process. The program for realizing the screen saver display process is started when the image forming apparatus 150 is turned on, and is terminated when the power is turned off.

  Referring to FIG. 7, this program determines whether or not data reception or job execution has been instructed (hereinafter simply referred to as “S”) 101, and data reception or job execution in S101. S102 is executed when it is determined that an instruction has been issued (in the case of YES), and data reception or a designated job is executed. After the process of S102, the control returns to S101.

  The program is further executed when it is determined in S101 that no data reception or job execution instruction has been issued (in the case of NO), and is predetermined in a state where no data reception or job execution instruction has been issued. S103 which determines whether time passed has been included. If it is determined in S103 that the predetermined time has not elapsed (NO), the control returns to S101.

  This program is further executed when it is determined in S103 that the predetermined time has elapsed (in the case of YES), and the operation panel 166 has S104 for shifting the operation mode of the image forming apparatus 150 from the normal mode to the standby mode. S105 for determining whether or not to take the first position, S106 that is executed when it is determined that the first position is taken in S105 (in the case of YES), and S106 that turns off the display of the display panel 172, including. After the process of S106, the control returns to S101.

  This program is further executed when it is determined in S105 that the first position is not taken (in the case of NO), and in S107 and S107 where it is judged whether or not the operation panel 166 takes the second position. When it is determined that the second position is not taken (in the case of NO), that is, when the operation panel 166 takes the third position, the current time is a time within a predetermined range. S108 for determining whether or not it is determined that the time is within a predetermined range in S108 (in the case of YES), and S109 for causing the display panel 172 to display content for children as a screen saver; including. After the process of S109, the control returns to S101.

  This program is further executed when it is determined in S107 that the second position is taken (in the case of YES) or when it is determined in S108 that the time is not within the predetermined range (in the case of NO). S110 for determining whether or not the image forming apparatus 150 is in a trouble state, and when it is determined in S110 that it is in a trouble state (in the case of YES), the trouble information is displayed to the display panel 172 as a screen saver. And S111 for lighting the error display portion 173. After the process of S111, the control returns to S101.

  This program is further executed when it is determined in S110 that there is no trouble state (in the case of NO), and includes S112 that causes the display panel 172 to display general content as a screen saver. After the process of S112, control returns to S101.

[Operation]
1 to 7, image forming apparatus 150 operates as follows. Except for the following operations, the general operation of the image forming apparatus 150 is the same as that of the conventional image forming apparatus. In the following description, when the image forming apparatus 150 is turned on, a setting screen (not shown) for instructing execution of various jobs is displayed on the display panel 172, and the error display unit 173 is turned off. It shall be. 8 to 11 shown below are diagrams showing an example of the display state of the display panel 172. FIG.

-When the operation panel 166 takes the first position-
The user turns on the image forming apparatus 150. At this time, it is assumed that the user needs to lower the viewability of the display panel 172 for an unspecified person existing around the image forming apparatus 150. Therefore, the user rotates the operation panel 166 so that the operation panel 166 takes the first position (see FIG. 4). Thereafter, it is assumed that a predetermined time (for example, 5 minutes) elapses in a state where there is no operation on the image forming apparatus 150 such as data reception or job execution instruction.

  When the control unit 400 determines that the data reception or job execution instruction has not been issued by the standby determination unit 601 (NO in S101), the control unit 400 is in a state in which no data reception or job execution instruction has been issued. Is determined to have elapsed (YES in S103), the energy saving control unit 602 shifts the operation mode of the image forming apparatus 150 from the normal mode to the standby mode (S104).

  Thereafter, when position determination unit 603 determines that operation panel 166 takes the first position (YES in S105), display control unit 606 turns off display on display panel 172 (S106). Referring to FIG. 8, when operation panel 166 takes the first position in the standby mode, display on display panel 172 is turned off, and error display portion 173 is turned off.

-When operation panel 166 is in the second position-
The user turns on the image forming apparatus 150. At this time, it is assumed that there are many ordinary people around the image forming apparatus 150. Therefore, the user rotates the operation panel 166 so that the operation panel 166 takes the second position in order to improve the viewability of the display panel 172 for general people. Thereafter, it is assumed that a predetermined time (for example, 5 minutes) has passed without any operation on the image forming apparatus 150 such as data reception or job execution instruction.

  When the control unit 400 determines that the data reception or job execution instruction has not been issued by the standby determination unit 601 (NO in S101), the control unit 400 is in a state in which no data reception or job execution instruction has been issued. Is determined to have elapsed (YES in S103), the energy saving control unit 602 shifts the operation mode of the image forming apparatus 150 from the normal mode to the standby mode (S104).

  Thereafter, when position determining unit 603 determines that operation panel 166 does not take the first position (NO in S105) and determines that it takes the second position (YES in S107), the state The determination unit 604 determines whether the image forming apparatus 150 is in a trouble state (S110). If state determination unit 604 determines that a trouble state has occurred (YES in S110), display control unit 606 causes display panel 172 to display the trouble information as a screen saver and turn on error display unit 173. (S111). Referring to FIG. 9, when operation panel 166 is in the second position in the standby mode and image forming apparatus 150 is in a trouble state, trouble information is displayed on display panel 172, and error display portion 173 is displayed. It is in a state of being lit red.

  If state determination unit 604 determines that there is no trouble state (NO in S110), display control unit 606 causes display panel 172 to display general content as a screen saver (S112). Referring to FIG. 10, when operation panel 166 is in the second position in the standby mode and image forming apparatus 150 is not in a trouble state, content for general use is displayed on display panel 172, and error display unit 173 is displayed. Is off.

-When operation panel 166 is in the third position-
The user turns on the image forming apparatus 150. At this time, it is assumed that there are many children around the image forming apparatus 150. Therefore, the user rotates the operation panel 166 so that the operation panel 166 takes the third position in order to improve the viewability of the display panel 172 for the child. Thereafter, it is assumed that a predetermined time (for example, 5 minutes) has passed without any operation on the image forming apparatus 150 such as data reception or job execution instruction.

  When the control unit 400 determines that the data reception or job execution instruction has not been issued by the standby determination unit 601 (NO in S101), the control unit 400 is in a state in which no data reception or job execution instruction has been issued. Is determined to have elapsed (YES in S103), the energy saving control unit 602 shifts the operation mode of the image forming apparatus 150 from the normal mode to the standby mode (S104).

  Thereafter, when position determination unit 603 determines that operation panel 166 does not take the first position (NO in S105) and determines that it does not take the second position (NO in S107). That is, when it is determined that the operation panel 166 takes the third position, the clock circuit 605 determines whether or not the current time is within a predetermined range (S108).

  If clock circuit 605 determines that the time is within the predetermined range (YES in S108), display control unit 606 causes display panel 172 to display content for children as a screen saver (S109). Referring to FIG. 11, when operation panel 166 takes the third position in the standby mode and the current time is within a predetermined range, content for children is displayed on display panel 172, and an error display is displayed. The part 173 is in a light-off state.

  If clock circuit 605 determines that the time is not within the predetermined range (NO in S108), state determination unit 604 determines whether or not image forming apparatus 150 is in a trouble state (S110). If state determination unit 604 determines that a trouble state has occurred (YES in S110), display control unit 606 causes display panel 172 to display the trouble information as a screen saver and turn on error display unit 173. (S111). Referring to FIG. 9, when the operation panel 166 takes the third position in the standby mode, the current time is outside the predetermined range, and the image forming apparatus 150 is in a trouble state, the display panel 172 is displayed. Shows trouble information, and the error display portion 173 is lit red.

  When clock circuit 605 determines that the time is not within the predetermined range (NO in S108) and status determination unit 604 determines that the time is not in trouble (NO in S110), display control unit 606 The general content is displayed as a screen saver on the display panel 172 (S112). Referring to FIG. 10, when operation panel 166 takes the third position in the standby mode, the current time is outside the predetermined range, and image forming apparatus 150 is not in a trouble state, display panel 172 is displayed. Is displayed for general contents, and the error display portion 173 is turned off.

-When a job execution instruction is issued-
It is assumed that the user turns on the image forming apparatus 150 and gives an instruction to execute a print job by an input operation from the operation panel 166.

  In the control unit 400, when the standby determination unit 601 determines that data reception or job execution instruction has been given (YES in S101), the print control unit 607 executes the designated print job (S102).

<Action and effect>
According to the above-described embodiment, when the image forming apparatus 150 has the operation panel 166 provided with the display panel 172 on the upper surface and the image forming apparatus 150 installed horizontally, the operation panel 166 is set to a predetermined plane with respect to the horizontal plane. A state in which there is no operation with respect to the device 150, a shaft 174 for rotating downward to take an inclination angle, an angle sensor 175 for detecting a predetermined inclination angle formed by the upper surface of the operation panel 166 and a horizontal plane The energy saving control unit 602 that shifts the operation mode of the device from the normal mode to the standby mode when the predetermined time elapses in e.g., and the angle when the operation mode of the device shifts to the standby mode. Depending on the detection result of the sensor 175, predetermined information is displayed on the display panel 172 in accordance with the difference in viewability of the display panel 172. A display control unit 606 to be displayed as, including.

  The visibility of the display panel 172 for an unspecified person existing around the image forming apparatus 150 varies depending on the tilt angle of the operation panel 166. Therefore, when the operation mode of the apparatus is shifted to the standby mode, the image forming apparatus 150 responds to the difference in viewability of the display panel 172 with respect to the display panel 172 according to the inclination angle of the operation panel 166. By displaying the predetermined information as a screen saver, it is possible to display information targeting an unspecified person existing around the apparatus even in the standby mode in which there is no user who directly operates the image forming apparatus 150. Therefore, the information displayed in the standby mode can be effectively displayed.

  Further, according to the above embodiment, the display control unit 606 turns off the display on the display panel 172 when the angle sensor 175 detects the predetermined first tilt angle θ1 as the predetermined tilt angle. To do. In this way, the image forming apparatus 150 is configured to display the display panel 166 when the operation panel 166 takes an inclination angle with which the display panel 172 is not easily viewed with respect to an unspecified person around the image forming apparatus 150. Since the display of 172 can be turned off, information can be prevented from being displayed unnecessarily. Therefore, useless power consumption can be reduced.

  Further, according to the above embodiment, the predetermined first inclination angle preferably takes a predetermined value within the range of 0 ° to 45 °, and particularly preferably 0 °. As a result, it is possible to more reliably prevent unnecessary information from being displayed, and it is possible to more reliably reduce wasteful power consumption.

  Further, according to the above embodiment, the display control unit 606 displays the display panel when the angle sensor 175 detects the second inclination angle θ2 larger than the first inclination angle θ1 as the predetermined inclination angle. For 172, the content for the general public intended for general people is displayed as a screen saver. As described above, the image forming apparatus 150 is generally used when the operation panel 166 has an inclination angle with which the visibility of the display panel 172 with respect to an unspecified person existing around the image forming apparatus 150 is favorable. Therefore, the information displayed in the standby mode can be displayed more effectively.

  Further, according to the embodiment, the second inclination angle takes a predetermined value within a range of 46 ° to 60 °. Thereby, in the standby mode, it is possible to display the general content in a state where the advertising effect is further enhanced.

  Further, according to the above embodiment, the general-purpose content includes at least advertisement information related to the store where the image forming apparatus 150 is installed, information related to coupons usable in the store, advertisement information related to stores in the surrounding area, and surrounding area. Information about coupons that can be used at any of the stores, or any combination thereof. As a result, it is possible to display information of high interest to the general public in a state where the advertising effect is even higher.

  Further, according to the above embodiment, the display control unit 606 displays the display when the angle sensor 175 detects the third inclination angle θ3 larger than the second inclination angle θ2 as the predetermined inclination angle. On the panel 172, content for children intended for children is displayed as a screen saver. As described above, the image forming apparatus 150 can be used when, for example, the operation panel 166 has a tilt angle that allows the display panel 172 to be easily viewed with respect to an unspecified child existing around the image forming apparatus 150. Therefore, the information displayed in the standby mode can be displayed more effectively.

  Further, according to the embodiment, the image forming apparatus 150 determines whether or not the current time is within a predetermined range that is predetermined as a time range suitable for displaying content for children. The display control unit 606 displays a content for children as a screen saver on the display panel 172 when the clock circuit 605 determines that the current time is within a predetermined range. Let Thereby, in the standby mode, the content for children can be displayed in a state where the advertising effect is further enhanced.

  Further, according to the above embodiment, the third inclination angle takes a predetermined value within a range of 61 ° to 90 °. Thereby, in the standby mode, the content for children can be displayed in a state where the advertising effect is higher.

  Moreover, according to the said embodiment, the content for children contains the advertisement information of the product for children. This makes it possible to display information that is highly interested for children in a state in which the advertising effect is even higher.

  In addition, according to the above-described embodiment, the image forming apparatus 150 further includes the state determination unit 604 that determines whether or not the device 150 is in a trouble state, and the display control unit 606 uses the angle sensor 175 to determine a predetermined value. When the second tilt angle or the third tilt angle is detected as the tilt angle, and the state determination unit 604 determines that the device 150 is in a trouble state, the display panel 172 is The trouble information indicating the contents of the trouble is displayed as a screen saver. As described above, when the apparatus is in a trouble state, the trouble information is displayed with priority, so that information important to the user can be displayed more effectively.

  Further, according to the above embodiment, the display control unit 606 adjusts the contrast of the image displayed on the display panel 172 based on the detection result of the angle sensor 175. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the image displayed on the display panel 172 from becoming difficult to see due to external light when the operation panel 166 is rotated.

[Modification]
12 and 13 shown below are diagrams showing an example of the display state of the display panel 172. FIG. In the above embodiment, in the standby mode, when the operation panel 166 takes the second position or the third position and the device 150 is in a trouble state, the display control unit 606 displays the display panel 172. However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, when the operation panel 166 takes the second position and the apparatus 150 is in a trouble state, the display control unit 606 may cause the display panel 172 to display general content along with trouble information. . Further, when the operation panel 166 takes the third position and the device 150 is in a trouble state, the display control unit 606 may cause the display panel 172 to display the content for children together with the trouble information. . Referring to FIG. 12, at this time, trouble information and contents for general use, or trouble information and contents for children are displayed on display panel 172, and error display portion 173 is lit in red. As described above, the content for general use or the content for children is displayed together with the trouble information, so that information important to the user and information of high interest can be displayed more effectively.

  Further, in the above embodiment, when the operation panel 166 takes the first position in the standby mode, the display control unit 606 only turns off the display panel 172. The present invention is not limited to the embodiment. For example, when the operation panel 166 is in the first position and the image forming apparatus 150 is in a trouble state, the display control unit 606 turns off the display on the display panel 172 and turns on the error display unit 173. You may let them. Referring to FIG. 13, at this time, display on display panel 172 is turned off, and error display portion 173 is in a state of being lit in red.

  Further, in the above embodiment, after determining whether or not the operation panel 166 takes the first position (S105), it is determined whether or not the operation panel 166 takes the second position (S107). Although the present invention has been performed, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, the process of S105 and the process of S107 may be performed in synchronization.

  The embodiment disclosed herein is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment. The scope of the present invention is indicated by each claim of the claims after taking into account the description of the detailed description of the invention, and all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the wording described therein are included. Including.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 150 Image forming apparatus 152 Document reading part 154 Image forming part 155 FAX communication part 156 Paper feeding part 158 Paper discharge processing apparatus 166 Operation panel 170 Operation part 172 Display panel 173 Error display part 175 Angle sensor 309 Display memory 400 Control part 601 Standby judgment 602 Energy-saving control unit 603 Position determination unit 604 Status determination unit 605 Clock circuit 606 Display control unit 607 Print control unit

Claims (13)

An image forming apparatus,
An operation panel provided with a display on the upper surface;
Rotation means for rotating the operation panel downward so as to take a predetermined inclination angle with respect to a predetermined surface;
An inclination angle detecting means for detecting the predetermined inclination angle formed by the upper surface of the operation panel and a predetermined surface;
A mode transition means for transitioning the operation mode of the image forming apparatus from the normal mode to the standby mode when a predetermined time elapses without any operation with respect to the image forming apparatus;
In response to the operation mode of the image forming apparatus being shifted to the standby mode by the mode shift unit, the display unit can be viewed with respect to the display unit according to the detection angle of the tilt angle detection unit. the difference in corresponding look-containing display control means for displaying the predetermined information is predetermined as a screen saver, a,
The display control means turns off the display of the display unit when the predetermined inclination angle is detected as the predetermined inclination angle by the inclination angle detection means,
The image forming apparatus, wherein the predetermined inclination angle takes a predetermined value within a range of 0 ° to 45 ° . An image forming apparatus,
  An operation panel provided with a display on the upper surface;
  Rotation means for rotating the operation panel downward so as to take a predetermined inclination angle with respect to a predetermined surface;
  An inclination angle detecting means for detecting the predetermined inclination angle formed by the upper surface of the operation panel and a predetermined surface;
  A mode transition means for transitioning the operation mode of the image forming apparatus from the normal mode to the standby mode when a predetermined time elapses without any operation with respect to the image forming apparatus;
  In response to the operation mode of the image forming apparatus being shifted to the standby mode by the mode shift unit, the display unit can be viewed with respect to the display unit according to the detection angle of the tilt angle detection unit. Display control means for displaying a predetermined information corresponding to the difference as a screen saver,
  When the predetermined first tilt angle is detected as the predetermined tilt angle by the tilt angle detecting unit, the display control unit turns off the display of the display unit and sets the predetermined tilt angle as the predetermined tilt angle. When the second inclination angle larger than the first angle is detected, the image forming apparatus causes the display unit to display general content intended for a general person as a screen saver.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the predetermined first inclination angle is 0 °.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the predetermined first inclination angle takes a predetermined value within a range of 0 ° to 45 °. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the second inclination angle takes a predetermined value within a range of 46 ° to 60 °. The general content includes at least advertisement information related to a store where the image forming apparatus is installed, information related to a coupon usable in the installed store, advertisement information related to a nearby store, and a coupon usable in the nearby store. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the image forming apparatus includes any one of information on When the third tilt angle larger than the second angle is detected as the predetermined tilt angle by the tilt angle detecting unit, the display control unit targets a child to the display unit. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 6 , wherein the content for children is displayed as a screen saver. A time determination means for determining whether the current time is a time within a predetermined range that is predetermined as a time range suitable for displaying the content for children;
Wherein the display control unit, by the time determining means, when it is determined that the current time is a time within the predetermined range, relative to the display unit to display the child's content as a screen saver, claim 7 The image forming apparatus described in 1. It said third tilt angle, takes a predetermined value within a range of 61 ° to 90 °, the image forming apparatus according to claim 7 or claim 8. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 9 , wherein the content for children includes advertisement information of a product for children. It further includes state determination means for determining whether or not the device is in a trouble state,
The display control means is a case where the second angle or the third inclination angle is detected as the predetermined inclination angle by the inclination angle detection means, and the state determination means causes the device to be in trouble. If it is determined that the state, with respect to the display unit to display the trouble information indicating the contents of trouble as a screen saver, an image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to claim 10. When the second angle is detected as the predetermined tilt angle by the tilt angle detecting unit, the display control unit causes the display unit to display the general content along with the trouble information. The image forming apparatus according to claim 11 , wherein, when the third angle is detected, the display unit displays the content for children together with the trouble information. On the basis of the detection result of the tilt angle detecting means further includes adjusting means for adjusting the contrast of an image displayed on the display unit, the image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12 .

Images