JP5649087B2 - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus. Specifically, even if the existence of various necessary functions is recognized in advance or the functions have not been used before, the functions required by the user can be easily and quickly performed. The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus that can be introduced in the following.

  An image forming apparatus such as a printer takes out sheets of paper stored in a paper feeding cassette one by one and conveys them toward an image forming unit, while an image reading unit reads an image from a document and obtains image information obtained thereby as an image. The sheet is formed on the sheet surface conveyed to the forming unit.

  By the way, in such an image forming apparatus, in recent years, an image forming function has been multi-functionalized, and the operation method thereof is also complicated. For this reason, it is not easy for the user to memorize all of the operation methods in detail, and in particular, functions that are not frequently used are often forgotten even if they are read.

  It is possible to check the various image forming functions and the operation method therefor by re-reading the manuals and manuals, but take out these documents each time and check the necessary items and contents. Doing so is laborious and cumbersome.

  For this reason, in the prior art, a help key is provided on an operation panel arranged in the image forming apparatus, and a necessary function can be selected and displayed by operating the help key (for example, the following is proposed). Patent Documents 1 and 2).

JP-A-2005-37886 Japanese Patent No. 2513603

  As described above, in the conventional techniques described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 above, necessary functions are selected and displayed by operating the help key arranged on the operation panel. Although it is possible to save the trouble of taking out each time and checking the necessary items and contents, the premise is that the user has recognized the existence of various necessary functions in advance, or used that function before. However, it is based on the premise that the user has forgotten how to operate it, and does not teach the existence to a user who does not even know that a convenient function exists.

  In other words, in the prior art, if the help key is not operated, help information of a necessary function cannot be reached, and it is impossible to teach a user an unknown useful function and help to learn it.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and is required by the user even if the existence of various necessary functions is recognized in advance or the function has never been used before. The functions can be introduced simply and quickly, and it is possible to save the trouble of checking the necessary items and contents by taking out documents such as instruction manuals and manuals each time. Another object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus.

  In order to achieve the above object, an image forming apparatus that provides a function related to image formation based on a plurality of operation conditions related to image formation received from a user is assumed.

In the image forming apparatus, when a user selects the plurality of operation conditions and a start key via a screen related to image formation displayed by the display unit, a reception unit that receives the plurality of operation conditions as a series of reception operation conditions; An image reading means for providing the user with a function including reading of image data based on the series of reception operation conditions; and an image based on the image data for the user based on the series of reception operation conditions. When the image reading unit and the image forming unit are notified of execution of a function related to image formation based on the series of reception operation conditions and the image formation unit that provides a function including formation, the series of reception operation conditions are set. Operation condition storage means for storing, one introduction function that the image forming apparatus can provide based on one operation condition, and provision of the one introduction function An introduction function storage means for associating a series of comparison operation conditions corresponding to a combination of a plurality of functions other than the introduction function and storing them in an introduction function table capable of obtaining a result equivalent to the obtained result; When a series of reception operation conditions is stored, it is determined whether or not the series of reception operation conditions match with a series of comparison operation conditions in the introduction function table. Without acquiring whether one set of introduction function associated with the comparison operation condition is further matched with the series of reception operation conditions and a series of comparison operation conditions corresponding to other introduction functions, Comparison means for displaying the one introduction function on the display means, and the comparison means displays a series of receptions stored in the operation condition storage means when the display means displays the one introduction function. Control To clear the conditions.

When the operation condition storage unit stores a series of acceptance operation conditions, the operation condition storage unit may store the reception condition as a predetermined table (operation condition table). The introduction function table is set with information for each operation condition in the series of comparison operation conditions so that all or some of the series of comparison operation conditions corresponding to two or more introduction functions do not overlap each other. The

  With this configuration, because the configuration introduces one function corresponding to a series of received operation conditions once input, the user stores the series of received operation conditions input by the user in association with the introduced functions. It becomes possible to expect the improvement of the learning effect with respect to a user. In addition, although the image forming apparatus has a convenient function, the user does not recognize the function at all, or recognizes the function but does not know how to use it. On the other hand, since the function required by the user can be introduced easily and quickly, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus with higher convenience than before. Furthermore, it is possible to save the trouble of taking out a document such as an instruction manual or a manual provided in the image forming apparatus and confirming necessary items and contents.

  The comparing means measures an elapsed time from the time when the operating condition is received by the receiving means using a timer, and the operating condition storage means when the elapsed time exceeds a preset reference value. A series of receiving operation conditions can be deleted.

  With this configuration, the comparison unit determines whether a series of reception operation conditions are continuously input by the reception unit by a single user, and a series of reception operation conditions are continuously input by the same user. If not, the reception operation condition (history) stored in the operation condition table of the operation condition storage means is cleared. Therefore, even if a series of reception operation conditions are input by different users, Therefore, it is possible to reliably prevent the occurrence of a problem such as erroneous determination that the reception operation condition is input.

  Further, an object detection sensor for detecting whether or not an object exists is provided in the vicinity of the reception unit, and the operation condition storage unit is operated by the reception unit after the object detection sensor detects the presence of the object. When the conditions are received, a series of reception operation conditions including the operation conditions are stored by sequentially storing the operation conditions, and the comparison unit is configured to detect the presence of the object when the object detection sensor stops detecting the presence of the object. A series of receiving operation conditions in the operation condition storage means can be deleted.

  With this configuration, since the comparison unit can reliably execute a determination as to whether or not a series of reception operation conditions input from the same user and a series of comparison operation conditions match, Even if the reception operation conditions are input, a function required by the user is not erroneously determined that a series of reception operation conditions have been input by the same person. Can be introduced reliably.

  According to the present invention, the functions required by the user can be introduced easily and quickly even if the existence of various functions required in advance is recognized or the functions have never been used before. Therefore, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus that is more convenient than conventional ones. Also, it is possible to save the trouble of taking out documents such as instruction manuals and manuals each time and confirming necessary items and contents.

  Further, in the present invention, an internal timer provided in the comparison unit is used to determine whether or not a series of reception operation conditions are continuously input by the reception unit by a single user, If the input is not continuously performed by one user, the series of reception operation conditions by the reception means is cleared, so it is erroneously determined that a series of reception operation conditions have been input even though the operation is by another person. It is possible to reliably prevent the occurrence of problems such as The same applies to the object sensing center.

1 is a conceptual diagram showing an overall internal configuration of an image forming apparatus according to the present invention. It is an enlarged view of the image reading part which concerns on this invention. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the whole structure of the operation part which concerns on this invention. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of control system hardware of an image forming apparatus according to the present invention. 1 is a functional block diagram of an image forming apparatus in an embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart for showing the execution procedure of the embodiment of the present invention. It is a 1st figure which shows an example of the screen displayed on the touchscreen of embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the operation condition table which concerns on embodiment of this invention, and an introduction function table.

  Hereinafter, an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings for understanding of the present invention. In addition, the following embodiment is an example which actualized this invention, Comprising: The thing of the character which limits the technical scope of this invention is not. In addition, the alphabet “S” added in front of the numbers in the flowcharts means steps.

<Image forming apparatus>
The image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described below.

  FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing the overall internal configuration of an image forming apparatus according to the present invention. However, details of each part not directly related to the present invention are omitted.

  The image forming apparatus 100 according to the present invention corresponds to, for example, a printer, a single scanner, or a multifunction machine including a printer, a copy, a scanner, a fax machine, and the like.

  As an example, the operation of the image forming apparatus when providing a document copy function using a multifunction peripheral (when executing copy processing) will be briefly described.

  When the user prints, for example, a document P using the multifunction device 100, the document P is placed on the document table 101 or the mounting table 102 shown in FIG. 1 and the operation unit 103 provided near the document table 101 is operated. Print instructions. When the instruction is given, printing is performed by operating the following units (drive units).

  That is, as shown in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment includes a main body 104 and a platen cover 105 that is attached above the main body 104. A document table 101 is provided on the upper surface of the main body 104, and the document table 101 is opened and closed by a platen cover 105. The platen cover 105 is provided with an automatic document feeder 106, a placement table 102, and a sheet discharge table 107.

  The automatic document feeder 106 includes a document conveyance path 108 formed in the platen cover 105, a pickup roller 109 and conveyance rollers 110A and 110B provided in the platen cover 105, and the like. The document conveyance path 108 is a document conveyance path that leads from the mounting table 102 to the paper discharge table 107 via a reading position X where reading is performed by the image reading unit 111 provided in the main body 104.

  The automatic document feeder 106 pulls out documents one by one from a plurality of documents placed on the table 102 to the inside of the conveyance path 108 by a pickup roller 109, and passes the document drawn by the conveyance rollers etc. through the reading position X. Then, the paper is discharged onto the paper discharge tray 107 by the transport roller 110B. When the document passes through the reading position X, the document is read by the image reading unit 111.

  The image reading unit 111 is provided below the document table 101, and its details are shown in FIG. The image reading unit 111 includes a first light source 112 that illuminates the document table 102 in the scanning direction, a slit 113 that selectively allows light from the document table, and a mirror 114 that guides light from the document table. The movable carriage 115, the second movable carriage 117 including mirrors 116A and 116B that reflect the reflected light from the first movable carriage 115 again, and the lens group 118 that optically corrects the light guided by the mirror, An image sensor 119 that receives light corrected by the lens group 118, and an image data generator 120 that converts the light received by the image sensor 119 into an electrical signal and performs correction processing, image quality processing, compression processing, and the like as necessary. It consists of and.

  When reading a document on the automatic document feeder 106, the light source 112 moves to a position where the reading position X can be irradiated and emits light. Light from the light source 112 is reflected by a document that passes through the document table 101 and passes through the reading position X, and is guided to the image sensor 119 by the slit 113, mirrors 114, 116A, and 116B, and the lens group 118. The image sensor 119 converts the received light into an electrical signal and transmits it to the image data generation unit 120. The light received by the image sensor 119 is input to the image data generation unit 120 as analog electrical signals of R (red), G (green), and B (blue), where analog-digital conversion is performed. Digitized. Further, the image data generation unit 120 uses the sequentially converted digital signal as unit data, and generates image data including a plurality of unit data by performing correction processing, image quality processing, compression processing, and the like on the unit data.

  Further, the image reading unit 111 can read not only a document conveyed by the automatic document feeder 106 but also a document placed on the document table 101. When reading the document placed on the document table 101, the first carriage 114 moves in the sub-scanning direction while emitting the light source 112, so that the optical path length from the light source 112 to the image sensor 119 is constant. The second moving carriage 117 moves in the direction of the image sensor 119 at a half speed of the first moving carriage 115.

  The image sensor 119 electrically outputs the light from the document placed on the document table 101 based on the light guided to the mirrors 114, 116 A, and 116 B, as in the case of the document conveyed to the automatic document feeder 106. The signal is converted into a signal, and based on this, the image data generation unit 120 generates image data and stores it in the storage unit 120B.

  An image forming unit 121 that prints image data is provided below the image reading unit 111 of the main body 104. Image data that can be printed by the image forming unit 121 is generated from the image data generating unit 120 as described above, or from a terminal such as a personal computer connected to the image forming apparatus 100 and a network such as a LAN. Received via the interface.

  As a printing method performed by the image forming unit 121, an electrophotographic method is used. That is, the photosensitive drum 122 is uniformly charged by the charger 123, and then a latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum 122 by irradiating the photosensitive drum 122 with a laser 124, and toner is attached to the latent image by the developing device 125. In this method, a visual image is formed and the visible image is transferred to a transfer medium by a transfer roller.

  Incidentally, in the image forming apparatus corresponding to the full color image, the developing device (rotary developing device) 125 is rotated in the circumferential direction around the rotation axis configured in the direction perpendicular to the paper surface of FIG. A developing unit storing color toner is disposed at a position opposite to the photosensitive drum 122. In this state, the latent image on the photosensitive drum 122 is developed with toner stored in the developing device 125 and transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 126A. The developing unit 125 includes four developing units 125 (Y), (C), (M), and yellow (Y), cyan (C), magenta (M), and black (K), respectively. (K). By repeating the transfer to the intermediate transfer belt 126A for each color, a full color image is formed on the intermediate transfer belt 126A.

  A transfer medium on which a visible image is printed, that is, a sheet, is placed on a sheet feeding tray such as a sheet feeding cassette 132, 133, or 134.

  When the image forming unit 121 performs printing, one transfer medium is pulled out from any one of the paper feed trays by using the pickup roller 135, and the transferred transfer medium is intermediate transfer belt by the transport roller 136 or the registration roller 137. It is fed between 126A and the transfer roller 126B.

  When the visible image on the intermediate transfer belt 126A is transferred to the transfer medium fed between the intermediate transfer belt 126A and the transfer roller 126B, the image forming unit 121 uses the transport belt 127 to fix the visible image. The transfer medium is sent to the fixing unit 128 (fixing device). The fixing unit 128 includes a heating roller 129 with a built-in heater and a pressure roller 130 pressed against the heating roller 129 with a predetermined pressure. When the transfer medium passes between the heating roller 129 and the pressure roller 130, the visible image is fixed to the transfer medium by heat and a pressing force to the transfer medium. The fixed transfer medium is discharged to a discharge tray 131.

  A side of the multifunction peripheral 100 is provided with a manual feed tray 138 configured to convey the placed paper between the intermediate transfer belt 126A and the transfer roller 126B. For example, when a sheet on which one side is printed is turned over (with the printing side of the sheet facing down), a predetermined condition is input, and a start key is pressed, the vicinity of the manual feed tray 138 The transport roller 138A rotates, and the paper on the manual feed tray 138 is transported to the intermediate transfer belt 126A and the like. As described above, even if the sheet is a sheet other than the sheet in the sheet feed tray, the multi-function device 100 can transfer the visible image on the intermediate transfer belt 126A to the sheet.

  Through the above-described procedure, the multi-function device 100 provides a copy function to the user. Based on the image data, the image reading means is a means for executing reading of the image of the original P as image data after irradiating the light source 112 to the original P, and the image data storage means 507 is a means for storing the image data. The means for performing image forming processing on the sheet is referred to as image forming means (described later).

  FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram showing the overall configuration of the operation unit 103 according to the present invention.

  The user uses the operation unit 103 to input setting conditions for image formation as described above, and to confirm the input setting conditions. When the setting condition is input, the touch panel 301, the touch pen 302, and the operation key 303 provided in the operation unit 103 are used.

  The touch panel 301 has both a function for inputting setting conditions and a function for displaying the setting conditions. That is, by pressing an item in the setting screen displayed on the touch panel 301, a setting condition associated with the item is input. In addition, since the background color of the item is changed from white to gray in conjunction with the input setting condition, the input setting condition is confirmed by the background color of the item.

  A touch pen 302 is provided in the vicinity of the touch panel 301. When the user touches the touch pen 301 with the tip of the touch pen 302, a sensor provided under the touch panel detects the touch destination. Since the tip of the touch pen is almost close to a point, the sensor detects, for example, the contact point in dot units (minimum unit). Therefore, for example, compared with the case where the position in the touch panel 301 is designated by a finger, the position designated by the touch pen can be designated more accurately.

  A setting screen designated by the touch pen 302 includes a predetermined number of item keys (selection item keys) displaying a preview image of a document generated from a read document image (image data) and a predetermined instruction (operation, condition). , Also called a setting item key). The user can select and press the displayed item key with the touch pen 302.

  Further, a predetermined number of operation keys 303 are provided in the vicinity of the touch panel 301, and for example, a numeric keypad 304, a start key 305, a clear key 306, a stop key 307, a reset key 308, and a power key 309 are provided. The numeric keypad 304 is used for inputting specific numbers when setting the number of copies and the magnification.

  Next, the configuration of the control system hardware of the multifunction machine 100 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration of control system hardware of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. However, details of each part not directly related to the present invention are omitted.

  The control circuit of the MFP 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 401, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 402, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 403, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 404, and a driver 405 corresponding to each drive unit. They are connected by a bus 406. The CPU 401 uses, for example, the RAM 403 as a work area, executes a program stored in the ROM 402, the HDD 404, and the like, and receives data and instructions from the driver 405 and the operation unit 103 (not shown) based on the execution result. The operation of each drive unit shown in FIG. 1 is controlled. In addition, each means (shown in FIG. 5) other than the above-described drive unit is realized by the CPU 401 executing a program. The ROM 402, the HDD 404, and the like store programs and data that implement each means described below.

<Embodiment of the present invention>
Next, with reference to FIG. 5 to FIG. 6, a description will be given of a procedure in which the multifunction peripheral 100 (image forming apparatus) of the present invention introduces functions required by the user simply and quickly. FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a flowchart for illustrating the execution procedure of the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, when the user places an A4 size document P on the document table 101, turns on the power of the multifunction peripheral 100, and selects (presses) the function key “Copy” of the operation unit 103, the display unit 501 Of the plurality of functions provided in the multi-function device 100, a copy setting screen related to the copy function is displayed on the touch panel 301 (FIG. 6: S101, FIG. 7A).

  FIG. 7A is a diagram showing an example of a copy setting screen 700 displayed on the touch panel.

  In the copy setting screen 700, as shown in FIG. 7A, a message “Can copy” 701 prompting the user to execute the copy function and a copy number display column 702 for displaying the number of copies of the printed matter input by the user. Then, an item key 708 for inputting operation conditions relating to various functions corresponding to the sheet selection 703, single-side / double-side setting 704, print density 705, print magnification 706, and monochrome / color setting 707 is displayed. The item key 708 is displayed in a selectable state by user selection (pressing).

  When the copy setting screen is displayed, the operation conditions regarding various functions are the initial conditions (paper selection “automatic selection”, single-side / double-sided setting “automatic selection”, print density “automatic density”, etc. ”, Print magnification“ auto scale ”, monochrome / color setting“ monochrome ”, number of copies“ 1 ”). Also, below the copy setting screen 700, a “Copy” tab indicating that the screen is related to the copy function and a tab corresponding to the screen of another function are displayed, and the “Copy” tab or the like is just switched. It will have a function.

  Here, in order for the user to perform three-sided duplex printing based on the images attached to both sides of the A4 size document P, the “A4” key 703a of the sheet selection 703 on the copy setting screen 700 and the one-side / double-side setting When the “single side” key 704a of 704, the “100%” key 706a of the printing magnification 706, and the “3” key 304a of the numeric keypad 304 are selected (pressed), the display unit 501 displays the “A4” key 703a, “single side”. ”Key 704 a and“ 100% ”key 706 a are changed from“ white ”to“ gray ”, and the number of copies display column 702 is changed from“ 1 ”to“ 3 ”.

  Next, when the user selects the start key 305, the reception unit 502 displays the selected operation condition (“A4”, “one side”, “automatic density”, “100%”, “monochrome”, “three copies”). ) As the first operation condition (A1 condition), and notifies the comparison unit 503 that the A1 condition has been accepted (FIG. 6: S102).

  Upon receiving the notification, the comparison unit 503 first activates the internal timer 504 and starts measuring the elapsed time from the time when the A1 condition is received (the time when the notification is received) (FIG. 6: S103).

  Next, the accepting unit 502 notifies the image reading unit 505 and the image forming unit 506 that processing is to be executed based on the A1 condition (FIG. 6: S104). Upon receiving the notification, the image reading unit 505 reads an image attached to one side of the document P, and stores the read image data in the image data storage unit 507. Upon receiving the notification, the image forming unit 506 monitors the image data storage unit 507. When the image reading unit 505 finishes storing the image data in the image data storage unit 507, the image forming unit 506 Image formation is executed based on the data, and three copies of printed matter are output to the discharge tray.

  Further, when the receiving unit 502 executes the notification to the image reading unit 505 and the image forming unit 506, the A1 condition is stored in the operation condition storage unit 508 as an operation condition table (FIG. 6: S105).

  FIG. 8A is a diagram showing an example of the operation condition table 800 in which the first operation condition is stored.

  In the operation condition table 800, as shown in FIG. 8A, the A1 condition 801a (“A4”, “single side”, “automatic density”, “100%”) received by the receiving unit 502 (notified to the comparing unit 503). , “Monochrome”, “3 copies”) are stored for each item. The operation conditions 801 stored in the operation condition table 800 are stored in order from top to bottom corresponding to the order in which the reception unit 502 receives the operation conditions from the user. That is, the A1 condition 801a is the operation condition that is first received by the receiving unit 502, and is therefore stored in the top row of the operation condition table 800. In this manner, the operation condition table 800 stores a series of operation conditions including the operation conditions by sequentially storing the operation conditions received by the reception unit 502.

  When the accepting unit 502 stores the A1 condition 801a in the operation condition table 800, the comparison unit 503 determines whether or not the series of operation conditions in the introduction function table and the series of operation conditions in the operation condition table 800 match. Notify that it will be judged. Upon receiving the notification, the comparison unit 503 refers to the introduction function table stored in the introduction function storage unit 509, and a series of operation conditions (comparison) associated with the function (referred to as the introduction function) of the introduction function table. It is determined whether or not the operation condition) matches a series of operation conditions 801 (accepting operation conditions) stored in the operation condition table 800 (FIG. 6: S106).

  FIG. 8B is a diagram illustrating an example of the introduction function table 802 stored in the introduction function storage unit 509.

  In the introduction function table 802, as shown in FIG. 8B, an introduction function 803 that can be provided by the MFP 100 based on one operation condition, and a result equivalent to the result obtained by providing the introduction function 803 are obtained. A series of comparison operation conditions 804 corresponding to the provision of a series of functions other than the introduction function 803 are stored in association with each other. Each operation condition constituting the series of comparison operation conditions 804 is stored in the order in which a result equivalent to the result obtained by providing the introduction function 803 can be obtained.

  For example, “automatic duplex copying” exists among the functions that can be provided by the MFP 100. “Automatic duplex copying” means that the multifunction device 100 reads images attached to both sides of a document based on an operation condition in which “double-sided” is selected in the single-sided / double-sided setting, and is the same size as the size of the document. This function is a function for selecting a sheet of paper, forming images on both sides of the document on both sides of the sheet, and outputting a printed matter equivalent to the document. In the “automatic duplex copying”, the multifunction peripheral 100 can provide a plurality of originals. If the “automatic duplex copy” is the introduction function 803, a series of functions corresponding to the “automatic duplex copy” includes a predetermined number of copies, a predetermined sheet size, and a printing magnification of 100% on one side of the sheet. “One-sided copy” function (first function) for executing image formation, and then one side of paper fed from the manual feed tray with the same number of copies as the first function, with a printing magnification of 100% Corresponds to a “single-sided copy” function (second function) that causes image formation to be executed.

  Therefore, the series of comparison operation conditions 804 corresponding to the “automatic duplex copy” 803a of the introduction function 803 of the introduction function table 802 includes the first operation condition 804a (B1 condition for executing the first function). ) And the second operation condition 804b (B2 condition) for executing the second function is stored in association with each other. Specifically, the B1 condition 804a stored in the introduction function table 802 includes sheet selection “-”, single-side / double-side setting “single-side”, print density “-”, print magnification “100%”, monochrome / color setting “ “−”, The number of copies “−”, and the B2 condition 804b includes paper selection “manual tray”, single-sided / double-sided setting “single-sided”, printing density “-”, printing magnification “100%”, monochrome / color setting “-”. The number of copies is “same as above”. Here, the “-” 804c is information indicating that any condition may be set, and the “same as above” 804d is the same as the condition of the same item in the previous operation condition. It is information which shows.

  The comparison unit 503 may determine whether the series of comparison operation conditions 804 associated with the introduction function 803 match the series of reception operation conditions 801 by any method. For example, the following method is used.

  First, the comparison unit 503 selects one introduction function from the introduction functions 803 stored in the introduction function table 802, and the first comparison function condition 804 corresponding to the selected introduction function is selected in the first order. It is determined whether or not the (first) comparison operation condition matches the first (first) reception operation condition in the series of reception operation conditions 801 in the operation condition table 800 ( FIG. 6: S106).

  Specifically, if the introduction function 803 selected by the comparison unit 503 is “automatic duplex copy” 803a, the comparison unit 503 includes the first comparison operation condition 804 corresponding to the “automatic duplex copy” 803a. The B1 condition that is the first comparison operation condition is compared with the A1 condition 801a that is the first reception operation condition in the series of reception operation conditions 801 in the operation condition table 800.

  When the comparing unit 503 compares the B1 condition 804a with the A1 condition 801a, items in the B1 condition 804a in which predetermined information is set, in other words, items in which the “−” 804c is not set ( Select "Simplex / Duplex setting", "Print magnification"). Next, the comparison unit 503 compares the B2 condition 804b and the A1 condition 801a for the selected item.

  Here, “single side / double side setting” and “printing magnification” are “single side” and “100%” in the B1 condition 804a, and “single side” and “100%” in the A1 condition 801a. In common, the comparison unit 503 determines that the B1 condition 804a and the A1 condition 801a match (FIG. 6: S106 YES).

  If it is determined that the B1 condition 804a and the A1 condition 801a match, since all the comparison operation conditions do not match all the reception operation conditions at this time, the comparison unit 503 next sets a series of comparison operation conditions 804. Among them, it is determined whether or not the second comparison operation condition (B2 condition 804b) matches the second reception operation condition in the series of reception operation conditions 801 (FIG. 6: S106YES → S107NO → S106).

  As described above, when it is determined that the comparison operation condition in the predetermined order matches the reception operation condition in the same order, the comparison unit 503 matches all the comparison operation conditions and all the reception operation conditions. Until the determination is made, the determination as to whether or not the comparison operation condition matches the reception operation condition is repeated for each comparison operation condition from the first order to the last order (FIG. 6: S106 YES → S107 NO → S106).

  At this time, the second comparison operation condition exists, but the second reception operation condition does not exist. Therefore, the comparison unit 503 determines that the second comparison operation condition (B2 condition 804b) and the second reception operation condition do not match (FIG. 6: S106 NO).

  When it is determined that the comparison operation condition and the reception operation condition in the predetermined order do not match, the comparison unit 503 stores the introduction function not selected in the introduction function 803 and stores it in the introduction function table 802. For all introduction functions 803, the introduction function 803 other than the introduction function 803 selected earlier is newly selected until it is determined whether or not the series of comparison operation conditions 804 and the series of reception operation conditions 801 match (see FIG. 6: S108NO → S106).

  Specifically, in the introduction function table 802 according to the embodiment of the present invention, since the introduction function “2in1” 803b exists in addition to the “automatic duplex copy” 803a of the introduction function 803, the comparison unit 503 newly adds “2in1”. "803b" is selected.

  When the comparison unit 503 newly selects the introduction function, the first comparison operation condition and the series of the operation condition table 800 in the series of comparison operation conditions 804 corresponding to the selected introduction function 803 are similarly described above. It is determined whether the first acceptance operation condition among the acceptance operation conditions 801 matches (FIG. 6: S106).

  As described above, the comparison unit 503 determines whether the series of comparison operation conditions 804 and the series of reception operation conditions 801 coincide with each other until each introduction function 803 that is not selected does not exist. (FIG. 6: S106NO → S108NO).

  As a result of repetition, when the comparison unit 503 determines that the series of comparison operation conditions 804 and the series of reception operation conditions 801 do not match for any of the introduction functions 803, the determination ends (FIG. 6: S106 NO → S108 YES). ).

  In the embodiment of the present invention, the introduction function table 800 stores the introduction functions “automatic duplex copying” 803a and “2in1” 803b, and at present, a series of comparison operation conditions corresponding to each introduction function 803. Since 804 does not match the series of receiving operation conditions 801, the comparison unit 503 ends the determination (FIG. 6: S108 YES).

  When the determination is completed, the comparison unit 503 waits until the reception unit 502 notifies that the new operation condition has been received (waits until the reception unit 502 receives a new operation condition from the user) (see FIG. 6: S109), the elapsed time measured by the internal timer 504 is compared with a preset reference value (eg, “3 minutes”) to determine whether or not the elapsed time exceeds the reference value. (FIG. 6: S110).

  Note that when the accepting unit 502 accepts a new operation condition from the user, since the process has already been performed based on the A1 condition 801a, the new operation condition is accepted with the initial condition set. .

  Here, when the comparison unit 503 determines whether or not the elapsed time exceeds the reference value (FIG. 6: S110), when the user inputs a new operation condition to the reception unit 502, the following is performed. Procedure.

  That is, before the elapsed time exceeds the reference value, the user turns over the printed material that has been printed on one side, sets the printed material on the manual feed tray 138, turns the document P over, and places the document P on the document table 101. To do. Then, the user selects the “manual tray” key 703 b of the paper selection 703 on the copy setting screen 700, the “single side” key 704 a of the single side / double side setting 704, the “100%” key 706 a of the print magnification 706, and the numeric keypad 304. When the “3” key 304a is selected, the display unit 501 changes the background color of the “manual tray” key 703b, the “single side” key 704a, and the “100%” key 706a from “white” to “gray”. The display in the number display column 702 is changed from “1 copy” to “3 copies”. Subsequently, when the user selects the start key 305, the receiving unit 502 displays the selected operation condition (“manual tray”, “single side”, “automatic density”, “100%”, “monochrome”, “three copies”). ) As the next operation condition (A2 condition), and notifies the comparison means 503 that the A2 condition has been accepted (FIG. 6: S110NO → S109YES).

  When the comparison unit 503 receives the notification from the reception unit 502 before the elapsed time exceeds the reference value, the measurement of the internal timer 504 that measures the elapsed time is stopped, and the internal timer 504 is turned off. After restarting (resetting), measurement of elapsed time from the time when the A2 condition is accepted is started (FIG. 6: S103).

  The accepting unit 502 notifies the image reading unit 505 and the image forming unit 506 that processing is to be executed based on the A2 condition (FIG. 6: S104). In response to the notification, the image reading unit 505 and the image forming unit 506 execute processing based on the following operation conditions, as described above.

  The receiving unit 502 that has executed the notification to the image reading unit 505 and the image forming unit 506 stores the A2 condition as the second receiving operation condition immediately below the A1 condition 801a in the operation condition table 800 (FIG. 6: S105). ).

  FIG. 8C is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation condition table 805 in which the following operation conditions are stored.

  In the operation condition table 805, as shown in FIG. 8C, the A2 condition 801b (“manual tray”, “one side”, “automatic density”, “100%”, “monochrome”, “three copies”) is included in the A1 condition 801a. Is newly stored for each item immediately below. As a result, the A1 condition 801a and the A2 condition 801b become a series of receiving operation conditions 801.

  When the accepting unit 502 stores the A2 condition 801b in the operation condition table 800, the comparison unit 503 stores the series of comparison operation conditions 804 in the introduction function table 802 and the series of accepting operation conditions 801 in the operation condition table 800. Notify that it is determined whether or not they match. Upon receiving the notification, the comparison unit 503 matches the series of comparison operation conditions 804 associated with the introduction function 803 in the introduction function table 802 with the series of reception operation conditions 801 stored in the operation condition table 800. It is determined whether or not (FIG. 6: S106).

  Here, when the comparison unit 503 selects the introduction function “automatic duplex copy” 803a, as described above, the first comparison operation condition (B1 condition 804a) and the first reception operation condition (A1 condition 801a) Are matched (FIG. 6: S106 YES), the comparison means 503 next selects the second comparison operation condition (B2 condition 804b) in the series of comparison operation conditions 804 and the series of reception operation conditions 801. Among these, it is determined whether or not the second acceptance operation condition (A2 condition 801b) matches (FIG. 6: S107 NO → S106).

  When determining whether or not the B2 condition 804b and the A2 condition 801b match, the comparison unit 503 includes items in the B2 condition 804b in which the “−” 804c is not set (“paper selection”, “ Single side / double side setting ”,“ Print magnification ”,“ Number of copies ”), and the B2 condition 804b and the A2 condition 801b are compared for the selected item.

  Regarding “paper selection”, “single side / double side setting”, and “printing magnification”, the B2 condition 804b is “manual tray”, “single side”, “100%”, and the A2 condition 801b is “manual tray”, “single side”. , “100%”, both are common. Next, “number of copies” is “same as above” 804d in the B2 condition 804b and “3” in the A2 condition 801b. Here, “same as above” 804d is information indicating that the condition of the same item in the previous operation condition is the same, and therefore the comparison unit 503 has the “number of copies” condition of the A2 condition 801b and the A2 condition 801b. It is determined whether or not they are the same by comparing the “number of copies” condition with respect to the operation condition immediately before (A1 condition 801a). Since the “number of copies” in the A2 condition 801b is “3” and the “number of copies” in the A1 condition 801a is “3”, both are the same. Therefore, the comparison unit 503 determines that the B2 condition 804b and the A2 condition 801b match (FIG. 6: S106 YES).

  If it is determined that the B2 condition 804b and the A2 condition 801b match (FIG. 6: S106 YES → S107), the number of conditions constituting the series of comparison operation conditions 804 of the “automatic duplex copy” 803a disappears. It is determined that the comparison operation condition 804 and all the reception operation conditions 801 match, that is, it is determined that the series of comparison operation conditions 804 and the series of reception operation conditions 801 of the “automatic duplex copy” 803a match ( FIG. 6: S107 YES).

  When it is determined that the series of comparison operation conditions 804 and the series of reception operation conditions 801 match (FIG. 6: S107 YES), the comparison unit 503 displays the introduction function “automatic duplex copy” corresponding to the matched series of comparison operation conditions 804. ”803a is acquired from the introduction function table 802. When the “automatic double-sided copy” 803a is acquired, the comparison unit 503 then displays the display item storage unit 510 having a display item table in which display items such as messages corresponding to the introduction function are stored in association with each introduction function. Referring to the display item table, the display item corresponding to the acquired introduction function “automatic duplex copy” 803a is read. Then, the comparison unit 503 transmits the read display items to the display unit 501. The display unit 501 that has received the display item displays an introduction function screen on the touch panel based on the display item (FIG. 6: S111).

  FIG. 7B is a diagram showing an example of the introduction function screen 708 displayed on the copy setting screen 700.

  As shown in FIG. 7B, the introduction function screen 708 has a message “function introduction” 709 indicating the title of the introduction function screen 708 and a message “automatic two-sided copy” that makes the user recognize the existence of the introduction function. ”710, an explanatory text 711 indicating an operation condition to be input by the user in order to execute“ automatic duplex copying ”803 a, and an“ OK ”key 712 for closing the introduction function screen 708. As a result, the user can recognize the presence of a convenient function (“automatic duplex copy” 803a) corresponding to a series of operation conditions input so far.

  Next, the comparison unit 503 that has transmitted the display items to the display unit 501 clears a series of acceptance operation conditions 801 stored in the operation condition table 800 and returns to the initial state by stopping the internal timer 504 ( FIG. 6: S112). As a result, even when the user further adds and causes the multifunction peripheral 100 to provide the function, the comparison unit 503 executes the above-described processing according to the reception operation condition corresponding to the provision of the added function. It becomes possible to do.

  When the user confirms the contents of the introduction function screen 708 and selects the “OK” key 712 while the introduction function screen 708 is displayed, the accepting unit 502 inputs the “OK” key 712. In response, the display unit 501 is notified that the display of the introduction function screen 708 is to be erased. Upon receiving the notification, the display unit 501 deletes the introduction function screen 708 from the copy setting screen.

  By the way, while the comparison unit 503 waits until a notification indicating that a new operation condition has been received is transmitted from the reception unit 502, the comparison unit 503 determines whether or not the elapsed time exceeds the reference value ( FIG. 6: S109 NO → S110) If the elapsed time exceeds the reference value without inputting a new operation condition for some reason (FIG. 6: S110 YES), the procedure is as follows.

  That is, when the elapsed time exceeds the reference value (FIG. 6: S110 YES), the comparison unit 503 clears a series of reception operation conditions 801 stored in the operation condition table 800 and stops the internal timer 504 to initialize Return to the state (FIG. 6: S112). Thus, the erroneous introduction function can be performed without the comparison unit 503 determining that a series of reception operation conditions 801 are continuously input by the same user even though different users continuously input the operation conditions. It is possible to prevent the screen 708 from being displayed on the display unit 501.

  Thus, the feature of the present invention is that when the accepting unit 502 accepts an operation condition, a series of accepting operation conditions 801 in the operation condition table 800 and a series of comparing operation conditions 804 in the introduction function table 802 coincide. The comparison unit 503 is configured to display the introduction function 803 associated with the matching series of comparison operation conditions 804 on the display unit 501 when the two match.

  With this configuration, since the configuration introduces one function corresponding to the series of received operation conditions 801 once input, the user associates the series of received operation conditions 801 input by the user with the introduced functions. And the learning effect on the user can be expected to be improved. In addition, although the multifunction device 100 has a convenient function, the user does not recognize the function at all or recognizes the function but does not know how to use it. On the other hand, since the function required by the user can be introduced easily and quickly, it is possible to provide the multi-function device 100 that is more convenient than before. Further, it is possible to save the trouble of taking out documents such as instruction manuals and manuals provided in the multifunction device 100 and confirming necessary items and contents each time.

  In addition, an internal timer 504 is provided, and the comparison unit 503 determines whether or not a series of reception operation conditions is continuously input by the reception unit 502, and a series of reception operation conditions is input. If it is not continuously performed by the same user, the reception operation condition (history) stored in the operation condition table 800 of the operation condition storage unit 508 is cleared, so that a series of reception operation conditions are input by different users. Even if it is done, it is possible to reliably prevent the occurrence of a problem such that it is erroneously determined that a series of reception operation conditions have been input by the same person.

  In the above-described embodiment, the comparison unit 503 is configured to display the introduction function screen 708 via the display unit 501, but other configurations may be used. For example, instead of the introduction function screen 708, the comparison unit 503 displays a message corresponding to the introduction function (information corresponding to the introduction function, for example, “automatic duplex copy” 803a) or the introduction function, in the copy setting screen 700 (for example, upper Or the like) may be displayed so as not to hinder the input of new operation conditions.

  In the above embodiment, after the comparison unit 503 acquires the introduction function from the introduction function table 802, the series of comparison operation conditions 804 corresponding to the other introduction functions 803 and the series of reception operation conditions 801 match. Although the display item corresponding to the acquired introduction function is read from the display item table without determining whether or not to perform, other configurations may be used.

  For example, after the comparison unit 503 acquires the introduction function from the introduction function table 802, it is further determined whether or not a series of comparison operation conditions 804 corresponding to other introduction functions 803 and a series of reception operation conditions 801 match. You may judge. However, the introduction function corresponds to a series of functions that combine a plurality of functions, and all or a part of the series of functions corresponding to two or more introduction functions overlap each other (for two or more introduction functions). It is rare that all or part of the corresponding series of comparison operation conditions overlap each other), and therefore, the comparison unit 503 does not acquire the introduction function further when the one introduction function is acquired. May be.

  Even if all or part of a series of functions corresponding to two or more introduction functions overlap each other, a user (manufacturer, etc.) can perform a series of comparison operation conditions corresponding to two or more introduction functions. It is sufficient to design an introduction function table in which separate information is set for each item in the comparison operation condition so that all or a part of the information does not overlap each other.

  Further, in the above embodiment, when the user confirms the contents of the introduction function screen 708 and selects the “OK” key 712, the accepting means 502 accepts the input of the “OK” key 712 and the display means 501. In addition, although it is configured to notify that the display of the introduction function screen 708 is to be deleted, other configurations may be used. For example, regarding the introduction function screen 708, the comparison unit 503 is configured to automatically delete the introduction function screen 708 when a predetermined time has elapsed since the introduction function screen 708 was displayed. I can do it. As a result, even if the user does not bother to select the “OK” key 712 and confirms the contents of the introduction function screen 708 and leaves the multifunction peripheral 100, the introduction function screen 708 is automatically deleted, The presence of the introduction function screen 708 does not confuse subsequent users.

  For example, the comparison unit 503 uses a second internal timer to measure an elapsed time from the time when the display item is transmitted to the display unit 501, and the elapsed time is a second reference value (for example, 1 minute). ) Is exceeded. If the user selects the “OK” key 712 on the introduction function screen 708 before the elapsed time exceeds the second reference value, the reception unit 502 notifies the display unit 501 that the introduction function screen 708 will be deleted. At the same time, the comparison means 503 is notified to the comparison means 503 that the second internal timer is to be stopped. The comparison means 503 receives the notification and stops the second internal timer. On the other hand, if the user does not select the “OK” key 712 on the introduction function screen 708 and the elapsed time exceeds the second reference value, the comparison means 503 informs the display means 501 that the introduction function screen 708 will be deleted. Notice. Upon receiving the notification, the display unit 501 deletes the introduction function screen 708. This configuration may be used.

  In the above embodiment, the comparison unit 503 uses the internal timer 504 to determine whether a series of reception operation conditions are continuously input by the reception unit 502 by a single user. However, other configurations may be used. For example, an object detection sensor for detecting whether or not an object is present is provided in the vicinity of the reception unit 502, and the operation condition storage unit 508 is configured to detect the presence of the object and then detect the presence of the object. When 502 receives the operation condition, a series of reception operation conditions including the operation condition is stored by sequentially storing the operation condition, and the comparison unit 503 no longer detects the presence of the object. In this case, a series of receiving operation conditions in the operation condition storage means 508 can be deleted. Even in this configuration, the comparison unit 503 determines whether or not a series of reception operation conditions are continuously input by the reception unit 502, and the input of a series of reception operation conditions is the same. If it is not performed continuously by the user, it is possible to clear the acceptance operation condition stored in the operation condition table 800 of the operation condition storage means 508, and the same effect according to the present invention can be obtained. It becomes.

  Note that the object detection sensor includes, for example, a reception unit that receives infrared rays of an object that falls within a predetermined range of the operation unit, and when the user enters the predetermined range of the operation unit, the object detection sensor A configuration in which the presence of an object is detected via the receiving unit, and when the user leaves the predetermined range of the operation unit, the reception of the user's infrared rays by the receiving unit is canceled and the presence of the object is not detected It is said. The object detection sensor is configured to notify the operation condition storage unit 508 and the comparison unit 503 that the object is present or absent.

  In the above embodiment, the introduction function recorded in the introduction function table 802 has been described using two introduction functions of “automatic duplex copying” and “2 in 1”. Functions can also be mentioned.

  The functions include, for example, a copy function, a facsimile transmission / reception function, a scan function, a print function, a punch function, a stapler function, an automatic double-sided copy function, an Xin1 function (2in1 function), a margin setting function, a multiple sheet printing function, A stamp function, a page number assigning function, an original size mixed copy function, a program function, and the like are applicable.

  The 2-in-1 function is a function for forming two images on one sheet. The original size mixed copy function is a function that reads images of multiple originals with different paper sizes with a single automatic document feeder, and based on the size of the read images, the paper size corresponding to the image size is selected. This is a function that automatically selects each image and forms an image of the same size as the paper size on the selected paper. The program function is a function for storing a predetermined condition different from the initial condition in a predetermined storage unit in advance according to a user's selection, and setting the condition according to a user's specification. Such a function can also be adopted as an introduction function, and if a series of comparison operation conditions corresponding to the introduction function is stored in the introduction function table, it is possible to obtain the same effect as described above. Become.

  In the embodiment of the present invention, the MFP 100 is configured to include each unit. However, a program that realizes each unit may be stored in a storage medium, and the storage medium may be provided. In this configuration, the program is read by the image forming apparatus, and the image forming apparatus implements the above-described units. In that case, the program itself read from the recording medium exhibits the effects of the present invention. Furthermore, it is also possible to provide a storage method for storing the steps executed by each means in a hard disk.

  As described above, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention is useful not only for multifunction peripherals but also for copying machines, printers, etc., and recognizes the existence of various necessary functions in advance or previously used the functions. Even if there is nothing at all, it is effective as an image forming apparatus that can easily and quickly introduce functions required by a user.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 MFP 103 Operation part 501 Display means 502 Reception means 503 Comparison means 504 Internal timer 505 Image reading means 506 Image formation means 507 Image data storage means 508 Operation condition storage means 509 Introduction function storage means 510 Display matter storage means

Claims (2)

In an image forming apparatus that provides a function related to image formation based on a plurality of operation conditions related to image formation received from a user,
A receiving unit that receives the plurality of operation conditions as a series of receiving operation conditions when the user selects the plurality of operation conditions and a start key via a screen related to image formation displayed by the display unit;
Image reading means for providing a function including reading of image data to the user based on the series of receiving operation conditions;
Image forming means for providing a function including image formation based on the image data to the user based on the series of reception operation conditions;
An operation condition storage unit that stores the series of reception operation conditions when the image reading unit and the image formation unit are notified of execution of a function related to image formation based on the series of reception operation conditions;
A plurality of introduction functions that can be provided by the image forming apparatus based on one operation condition and a result equivalent to the result obtained by providing the one introduction function. An introduction function storage means for associating a series of comparison operation conditions corresponding to the combination of functions and storing them in the introduction function table;
When the series of reception operation conditions is stored, it is determined whether or not the series of reception operation conditions and the series of comparison operation conditions in the introduction function table match. Obtaining an introduction function associated with a series of comparison operation conditions, and without determining whether the series of reception operation conditions and a series of comparison operation conditions corresponding to other introduction functions match. Comparing means for displaying the one introduction function on the display means;
With
The comparison means clears a series of acceptance operation conditions stored in the operation condition storage means when the display means displays the one introduction function.
An image forming apparatus. In the introduction function table, information for each operation condition in the series of comparison operation conditions is set so that all or part of the series of comparison operation conditions corresponding to two or more introduction functions do not overlap each other. Item 2. The image forming apparatus according to Item 1.

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