JP5653152B2 - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Description

  In the present invention, when an input operation unit that receives an input operation of information relating to image forming processing is configured by a display unit and a touch panel, and a failure occurs in the touch panel, information relating to image forming processing is provided using existing members other than the touch panel. The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus that accepts an input operation.

  When the start of the image forming process is instructed, the image forming apparatus executes the image forming process based on the color mode selection contents and the image forming condition setting contents. The selection content of the color mode is, for example, selection of either a color image formation mode for forming a full color image or a monochrome image formation mode for forming a monochrome image. The setting contents of the image forming conditions are, for example, settings for each of the document size, paper size, image density, image forming magnification, number of image forming copies, and the like.

  For this reason, the image forming apparatus is provided with an input operation unit that receives an input operation of information related to the image forming process such as an instruction to start the image forming process and a change in the selection contents of the color mode and the setting contents of the image forming conditions. ing. The input operation unit includes a print key (start button) that receives an instruction to start image forming processing, a key for selecting a color mode, and a numeric keypad for setting numerical information related to image forming conditions. .

  2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, an operation panel is used for an input operation unit because an image forming apparatus has a variety of information regarding an image forming process to be input by a user before the start of the image forming process in response to a request for multi-functionality. The operation panel includes a display (display unit) such as an LCD that displays icons of a plurality of operation keys, and a touch panel that detects a user's pressed position on the upper surface of the display. By switching the display contents of the icons on the display, it is possible to accept input operations of a large number of operation keys with a single operation panel.

  In particular, in the image forming apparatus, the operation panel has been increased in size, and all keys are displayed on the display except for one hard key (home key) for returning the display to the initial screen. Things have been proposed. In an image forming apparatus equipped with such an operation panel, if a failure occurs in the touch panel, the user cannot input information related to the image forming process, and the image forming process is executed even when there is no failure in the image forming unit. Can not be made.

  Therefore, in a system in which a plurality of image forming apparatuses are connected via a network, when an input operation unit fails in any of the plurality of image forming apparatuses, the input operation unit of another image forming apparatus substitutes The structure made to do is proposed (for example, refer patent document 1).

JP 2009-073045 A

  However, the configuration described in Patent Document 1 accepts an input operation of information related to image forming processing for an image forming apparatus in which a failure has occurred via another image forming apparatus in the network, and is installed alone. It cannot be applied to an image forming apparatus.

  An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of accepting an input operation of information relating to image forming processing without using another image forming apparatus even when a failure occurs in a touch panel.

  An image forming apparatus according to the present invention includes an input operation unit, a plurality of operation detection units, an image formation unit, a failure detection unit, a display state switching unit, and a control unit. The input operation unit includes a display unit that displays a plurality of operation key images and a touch panel that detects a user's pressed position on the upper surface of the display unit. Each of the plurality of operation detection means detects a user's operation related to the image forming process. The image forming unit executes an image forming process on the paper. The failure detection unit detects the occurrence of a failure in the touch panel. The display state switching means outputs display state switching data for switching the display state of the display unit in a state where the failure detection unit detects the occurrence of a failure in the touch panel. The control unit operates in a normal input mode in which information related to image formation processing is input based on the detection result of the touch panel in a state where the failure detection unit does not detect the occurrence of the failure in the touch panel, In the state in which the occurrence of the occurrence is detected, the display state of the display unit is switched based on the display state switching data, and the display state of the display unit when the first operation detection unit of the plurality of operation detection units detects the user's operation is obtained. Based on this, it operates in a temporary input mode that receives input of information relating to image forming processing.

  In this configuration, the control unit operates in the normal input mode in a state where the failure detection unit has not detected the occurrence of the failure in the touch panel, and operates in the temporary input mode when the failure detection unit detects the occurrence of the failure in the touch panel. Therefore, when the information related to the image forming process that the user has input by operating the touch panel in the normal input mode is switched to the temporary input mode, the display state switching unit and the first operation detecting unit do not use the touch panel. Input becomes possible. Specifically, the user performs an operation related to the image forming process so that a desired operation key among the plurality of operation keys displayed on the display unit is selected by the display state switching unit and detected by the first operation detection unit. Determined by doing.

  Here, the information relating to the image forming process includes, for example, mode selection information relating to selection of any one of the copier mode, the printer mode, and the fax mode, and color selection relating to any one of the color image forming process or the monochrome image forming process. Information, paper size selection information relating to the selection of paper size, number selection information relating to setting of the number of image formations, and the like.

  In the above-described configuration, the failure detection unit detects a failure in the touch panel when the power is turned off and on repeatedly for a predetermined number of times without detection of the user's pressing position by the touch panel and execution of the image forming process by the image forming unit. It can be configured to determine that it has occurred. If the user cannot input desired information by operating the touch panel, the user may think that the image can be input from the touch panel if the image forming apparatus is reset, and the power of the image forming apparatus is repeatedly turned off and on. Sometimes. For this reason, when the power is turned off and on repeatedly for a predetermined number of times without detecting the user's pressed position on the touch panel and executing the image forming process by the image forming unit, it is determined that a failure has occurred in the touch panel. By switching from the normal input mode to the temporary input mode, it becomes possible to smoothly input information relating to the image forming process along the user's natural behavior pattern.

  The image reading unit further includes an image reading unit that reads an image of the document, and at least one of the plurality of operation detection units is a document detection sensor that detects a document placement operation of the user in the image reading unit, and the failure detection unit includes: It can be configured that it is determined that a failure has occurred in the touch panel when the touch position of the user on the upper surface of the display unit by the touch panel is not detected for a predetermined time after the document detection sensor detects the document placement operation. When the document placement operation is performed by the user, an operation for inputting information related to the image forming process is also performed. Therefore, if the user does not detect the pressed position on the upper surface of the display unit by the touch panel even after the document placement operation has been performed, it may be considered that the touch panel has failed. it can. Therefore, in such a case, it is possible to input information relating to the image forming process by switching from the normal input mode to the temporary input mode.

  Furthermore, when the failure detection unit matches the user's pressing position on the upper surface of the display unit detected by the touch panel when the power is turned off and the user's pressing position on the upper surface of the display unit detected when the power is turned on, It can be configured to determine that a failure has occurred in the touch panel. If a foreign object gets caught between the touch panel frame and the touch panel, or if the touch panel is scratched, a specific part of the touch panel will remain pressed. The touch position of the user on the upper surface of the display unit detected by the touch panel matches. In such a case, it is possible to input information relating to the image forming process by switching from the normal input mode to the temporary input mode because a failure has occurred in the touch panel.

  Further, the control unit may be configured to display on the display unit to confirm to the user whether or not to switch from the normal input mode to the temporary input mode when the failure detection unit detects the occurrence of a failure in the touch panel. it can. Accordingly, since the user can make a final determination as to whether or not to switch from the normal input mode to the temporary input mode, it is possible to perform control according to the user's needs more accurately.

  Furthermore, the display state switching means includes a timer, and the control unit can be configured to sequentially switch the display states of the plurality of operation key images at predetermined time intervals in the temporary input mode. Since each of the plurality of operation keys is sequentially selected every predetermined time, the user performs an operation related to the image forming process so that the first operation detecting unit detects when a desired operation key is selected. Thus, desired information regarding the image forming process is input.

  The display state switching means may include a timer, and the control unit may be configured to sequentially display each of the plurality of operation key images at a predetermined position on the display unit every predetermined time in the temporary input mode. Assuming that the operation key displayed at the predetermined position on the display unit is the selected operation key, the user images so that the first operation detecting unit detects the desired operation key when the operation key is displayed at the predetermined position on the display unit. By performing an operation relating to the forming process, desired information relating to the image forming process is input.

  Furthermore, the control unit can be configured to recognize the detection result of the second operation detection unit among the plurality of operation detection units as display state switching data and switch the display state of the display unit in the temporary input mode. In a state where a failure has occurred in the touch panel, a desired operation key is selected by the user's operation relating to the image forming process, and determined by another user's action relating to the image forming process, thereby inputting desired information relating to the image forming process. The

  In addition, in the temporary input mode, the control unit outputs detection when the first operation detection unit detects a user action when the second operation detection unit outputs the first detection result among the plurality of operation detection units. The result is recognized as display state switching data, the display state of the display unit is switched, and when the second operation detection unit outputs the second detection result, the first operation detection unit detects the user's action. It can be configured to receive input of information relating to the image forming process based on the display state. In a state where a failure has occurred in the touch panel, after the user performs an operation related to the image forming process so that the second operation detection unit outputs the first detection result, the user performs an image to be detected by the first operation detection unit. By performing an operation related to the forming process, the display state of the display unit is switched. On the other hand, after the user performs an operation related to the image forming process so that the second operation detecting unit outputs the second detection result, the user performs an operation related to the image forming process so as to be detected by the first operation detecting unit. Thus, information relating to the image forming process is input based on the display state of the display unit at that time.

  Furthermore, in the case of including an image reading unit for reading an image of a document, one of the first operation detection unit and the second operation detection unit is one hard key provided separately from the touch panel, and the other is It can be configured to be a document detection sensor that detects a user's document placement operation in the image reading unit. When the user operates to detect either the hard key or the document detection sensor, the display state of the display unit is switched, and when the user operates to detect the other, the display unit at that time Information relating to the image forming process is input based on the display state.

  Further, the input operation unit is a tilt type whose tilt angle is freely displaceable, and one of the first operation detection unit and the second operation detection unit is one hard key provided separately from the touch panel, The other can be configured to be an inclination angle detection sensor that detects an inclination angle of the input operation unit. When the user operates so that either the hard key or the tilt angle detection sensor detects, the display state of the display unit is switched, and when the user operates so that the other detects, the display at that time Information relating to the image forming process is input based on the display state of the part.

  According to the present invention, even when a failure occurs in the touch panel, it is possible to accept an input operation of information regarding image forming processing without using another image forming apparatus.

1 is an external perspective view of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a schematic front sectional view of an image forming apparatus. 2 is a plan view of an operation unit of the image forming apparatus. FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an image forming apparatus. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure of a control unit of an image forming apparatus that detects a failure in a touch panel of an operation unit. FIG. 6 is a flowchart in a case where a processing procedure for confirming switching to the temporary input mode is further included in the processing procedure shown in FIG. 5. It is a figure which shows an example of the confirmation display screen of switching to temporary input mode. It is a figure which shows the other example of the confirmation display screen of switching to temporary input mode. 10 is a flowchart illustrating another example of the processing procedure of the control unit of the image forming apparatus that detects a failure in the touch panel of the operation unit. 12 is a flowchart illustrating still another example of the processing procedure of the control unit of the image forming apparatus that detects a failure in the touch panel of the operation unit. (A) is sectional drawing of the touch panel at the time of normal, (B) is a figure which shows an example of the cross section of the touch panel at the time of failure, (C) is a figure which shows the other example of the cross section of the touch panel at the time of failure. is there. It is a flowchart which shows an example of input operation in temporary input mode. It is a figure which shows an example of the transition of the display screen in the input operation example shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the other example of transition of the display screen in the example of input operation shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the other example of input operation in temporary input mode. It is a flowchart which shows the further another example of input operation in temporary input mode.

  EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION Below, the form for implementing this invention is demonstrated based on drawing.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the image forming apparatus 1 includes an image reading unit 2, an image forming unit 3, a paper feeding unit 4, a control unit 5, and an operation unit 6. The image forming apparatus 1 executes an electrophotographic color image forming process or a monochrome image forming process on a sheet in any one of a copier mode, a printer mode, and a fax mode. The operation unit 6 is provided on the front side of the image forming apparatus 1. The control unit 5 comprehensively controls the entire image forming apparatus 1. In addition to plain paper, paper that is the object of image forming processing includes photographic paper, OHP film, and the like.

  The image reading unit 2 includes a scanner unit 20 and an automatic document feeder (ADF) 200.

  The scanner unit 20 includes a document table 21, a light source unit 23, a mirror unit 24, a lens 25, and a solid-state imaging device (CCD: Charge Coupled Device) 26, and performs image reading processing for reading an image of a document and generating image data. Do.

  The ADF 200 includes a document transport path 203 from a document stacking tray 201 to a document discharge tray (not shown) via a predetermined position on the top surface of the document table 21. Convey one sheet at a time. The ADF 200 is supported by the scanner unit 20 so as to be rotatable about an end on the back side, and can also function as a document table cover that covers the upper surface of the document table 21 so as to be freely opened and closed. By rotating the ADF 200 so that the front end moves upward to expose the upper surface of the document table 21, the document can be placed on the document table 21 by manual operation without using the ADF 200. . In the following description, the ADF 200 may be referred to as a document table cover 200. The document table 21 is made of a hard glass plate.

  The light source unit 23 and the mirror unit 24 are configured to be movable in the sub-scanning direction along the document table 21 below the document table 21. The moving speed of the mirror unit 24 is half of the moving speed of the light source unit 23. The light source unit 23 includes a light source and a first mirror. The mirror unit 24 includes a second mirror and a third mirror.

  In the transported document reading system that reads an image of a document transported by the ADF 200, the light source unit 23 is stopped below the predetermined position of the document table 21. The light from the light source is applied to the image surface of the document passing over the predetermined position of the document table 21, and the reflected light from the image surface of the document is guided to the mirror unit 24 by the first mirror.

  In the stop document reading method for reading an image of a document placed on the document table 21, the light source unit 23 and the mirror unit 24 move below the document table 21 in the sub-scanning direction. The light from the light source is applied to the image surface of the document placed on the document table 21, and the reflected light from the image surface of the document is guided to the mirror unit 24 by the first mirror.

  Regardless of whether or not the ADF 200 is used, the reflected light from the image surface of the document is guided to the second mirror and the third mirror with a constant optical path length, and enters the CCD 26 via the lens 25.

  The CCD 26 outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of reflected light from the image surface of the document. This electrical signal is input to the control unit 5 as image data. In this way, the image reading unit 2 reads an image of a document and generates image data. The control unit 5 outputs image data to the image forming unit 3 as necessary.

  The image forming unit 3 is disposed below the image reading unit 2 and includes an electrophotographic process unit 30 and a fixing unit 60.

  The electrophotographic process unit 30 includes a photosensitive drum 31, a charging device 32, an exposure unit 33, a developing device 34, a transfer device 35, and a cleaning unit 36. The charging device 32 uniformly charges the peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 31 to a predetermined potential. The exposure unit 33 forms an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image data on the peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 31 by exposing the peripheral surface of the charged photosensitive drum 31 according to the image data. The developing device 34 visualizes the electrostatic latent image formed on the peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 31 with a developer such as toner, and forms a developer image. The transfer device 35 transfers the developer image formed on the peripheral surface of the photoconductive drum 31 onto a sheet conveyed between the transfer device 35 and the peripheral surface of the photoconductive drum 31. The cleaning unit 36 removes and collects the developer remaining on the peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 31 after the developer image is transferred to the paper.

  The fixing unit 60 includes a heating roller and a pressure roller. When a sheet carrying an unfixed developer image passes between the heating roller and the pressure roller, it is heated and pressed while being conveyed. The developer image is fixed on the paper.

  A paper discharge tray 72 that is a paper discharge unit is formed above the image forming unit 3. The paper discharge tray 72 stores processed paper on which the developer image is fixed.

  The paper feed unit 4 includes a plurality of paper cassettes 41 to 44 and a manual feed tray 45 that are disposed below the image forming unit 3 and are paper storage units that store unprocessed paper.

  The paper feed unit 4 and the image forming unit 3 are provided with a first paper transport path 73 and a second paper transport path 74.

  The first sheet conveyance path 73 extends in the vertical direction from the sheet feeding unit 4 via the electrophotographic process unit 30 and the fixing unit 60, curves in the horizontal direction above the fixing unit 60, and discharges the sheet to the discharge tray. 72 or the paper discharge processing device 75. The second sheet conveyance path 74 is a sheet conveyance path for double-sided printing, and is branched downstream of the fixing unit 60 in the first sheet conveyance path 73, and the first sheet conveyance on the upstream side of the transfer device 35. It merges with road 73.

  The paper after the heat fixing by the fixing unit 60 is conveyed upward in the first paper conveyance path 73 and then directed to the paper discharge tray 72 or the paper discharge processing device 75 by the branch claw 79 or the second paper conveyance path. Guided to 74 side.

  The paper discharge processing device 75 has a plurality of paper discharge trays 76, 77, 78. The paper discharge processing device 75 sorts and discharges a plurality of sheets to each of the plurality of paper discharge trays 76 to 78.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the control unit 5 includes a CPU 51 having a ROM 52 and a RAM 53, and an image reading unit driver 54, an image forming unit driver 55, a paper feeding unit driver 56, and an operation unit connected to the CPU 51. Controller 57 and failure detector 58.

  The ROM 52 stores a program that defines the operation of the CPU 51 and the like. The RAM 53 temporarily stores data input / output to / from the CPU 51. The plurality of memory areas of the RAM 53 store the setting contents of the image density, the paper size, the number of formed images, and the document size.

  The image reading unit driver 54 controls the operation of a driving device such as a motor (not shown) included in the image reading unit 2. The image forming unit driver 55 controls the operation of a driving device such as a motor (not shown) included in the image forming unit 3. The paper feed unit driver 56 controls the operation of a driving device such as a motor (not shown) included in the paper feed unit 4.

  The operation unit 6 is connected to the operation unit controller 57. As shown in FIG. 4, the operation unit 6 includes an input operation unit 63, one home key 64, a power key 65, and an indicator lamp 66. The power key 65 and the indicator lamp 66 are not limited to being provided in the operation unit 6.

  The input operation unit 63 includes a display (display unit) 61 such as an LCD or an EL, and a touch panel 62 arranged on the upper surface of the display 61. The operation unit controller 57 displays information such as operation key icons (images) and messages on the display 61 based on the display data input from the CPU 51. As an example, the operation keys displayed on the display 61 include a start key for receiving an instruction to start an image forming process, a plurality of operation keys for color mode selection, a plurality of operation keys for paper size selection, and the number of images formed A numeric keypad for selection is included.

  The operation unit controller 57 can store display data to be displayed on the display 61 in a hierarchical manner in the ROM 52, and can display a plurality of operation keys on the display 61 in a hierarchical manner.

  The touch panel 62 detects the user's pressed position on the upper surface of the display 61. The operation unit controller 57 outputs operation data indicating the pressed position of the touch panel 62 by a user input operation to the CPU 51.

  Home key 64 is a hard key provided separately from touch panel 62. The home key 64 is disposed adjacent to the input operation unit 63. When the home key 64 is operated in the normal input mode in which no failure has occurred in the touch panel 62, the display screen of the display 61 is returned to a predetermined initial screen. As an example, the initial screen is a screen that displays a plurality of operation keys for selecting an operation mode.

  The indicator lamp 66 represents the ON / OFF state of the power supply of the image forming apparatus 1.

  The failure detection unit 58 detects the occurrence of a failure in the touch panel 62. The failure detection unit 58 outputs failure occurrence data to the CPU 51 when it is determined that a failure has occurred in the touch panel 62. When the failure occurrence data is input, the CPU 51 switches the input mode from the normal input mode to the temporary input mode. A method for determining whether or not a failure has occurred in the touch panel 62 will be described later.

  In addition, detection result data is input from the cover opening / closing detection sensor 81, the document tray sensor 82, and the panel opening / closing detection sensor 84 to the CPU 51 of the control unit 5, and timing information is input from the timer 83.

  Cover open / close detection sensor 81 detects the open / close state of document table cover 200. The document tray sensor 82 detects whether or not a document is placed on the document stacking tray 201. The panel open / close detection sensor 84 detects the open / closed state of the front panel 37 for performing maintenance of the image forming unit 3.

  Based on the operation data input from the operation unit controller 57 and the display data output to the operation unit controller 57, the CPU 51 specifies the setting contents of the information related to the image forming process by the user. Specifically, user operation data on the touch panel 62 is input to the CPU 51 as coordinate data in the display screen of the display 61, and the CPU 51 reads data corresponding to the input coordinate data from the ROM 52 and performs image formation processing. Identify information about.

  Here, the information relating to the image forming process includes, for example, operation mode selection information relating to the selection of any one of the copier mode, the printer mode or the fax mode, and the color relating to any one of the color image forming process or the monochrome image forming process. Selection information, paper size selection information relating to paper size selection, number selection information relating to setting of the number of image formations, and the like. The information related to the image forming process includes instruction information for starting the image forming process.

  The CPU 51 outputs drive data corresponding to the set contents of the information related to the specified image forming process to the drivers 54 to 56 in accordance with the program stored in the ROM 52. The drivers 54 to 56 drive each drive device based on the drive data input from the CPU 51. That is, an image reading unit 2 that executes image reading processing on a document, an image forming unit 3 that executes image forming processing on paper, and a paper feeding unit 4 that executes paper transport processing are included in the image processing unit. Then, the image processing unit is controlled based on the set contents of the information related to the specified image forming process.

  As described above, in the normal input mode in which no failure has occurred in the touch panel 62, information regarding the image forming process is received by the touch panel 62.

  Next, a description will be given of a temporary input mode that enables input of information relating to image forming processing when a failure occurs in the touch panel 62. First, a procedure for determining whether or not a failure has occurred in the touch panel 62 will be described.

  While the power supply key 65 is turned off, the image forming apparatus 1 supplies power to the operation unit 6 that can accept a power-on operation using the power key 65, while supplying power to the image forming unit 3. Has stopped. In addition, the image forming apparatus 1 operates in a normal input mode in which information regarding image forming processing is input based on an input operation from the touch panel by the user while the power is on and in a normal time.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 5 supplies power to the image forming unit 3, the image reading unit 2, and the paper feeding unit 4 when a user turns on the power using the power key 65 (S 1). (S2), it is determined whether or not the failure counter C1 is 2 or less (S3).

  The controller 5 operates in the normal input mode when the failure counter C1 is 2 or less. Next, the control unit 5 determines whether or not the user has performed a power-off operation with the power key 65 (S4). When the user performs an input operation on the touch panel 62 between the time when the user turns on the power and the time when the power is turned off (S5), the control unit 5 determines that the operation counter C2 and the failure Both the counters C1 are reset (S6, S7), and if the input operation on the touch panel 62 in S5 is not an instruction operation for starting the image forming process (S8), the process returns to S4 and the power OFF operation or the touch panel on the power key 65 is returned. An information input operation regarding the further image forming process in 62 is accepted.

  When an instruction operation for starting the image forming process is performed on the touch panel 62, the control unit 5 causes the image forming unit 3 to execute the image forming process (S9), and the process returns to S4.

  The control unit 5 does not perform an input operation by the user on the touch panel 62 (NO in S5) after the user performs a power ON operation until the power OFF operation is performed (NO in S4). When the forming process is executed (for example, when the printer mode is executed) (S10), the operation counter C2 is reset (S11), and the process returns to S4.

  When neither the input operation by the user nor the execution of the image forming process is performed on the touch panel 62 between the time when the user turns on the power and the time when the power is turned off, the control unit 5 performs the operation counter C2. 1 is added to (S12), and the process returns to S4.

  When the user performs a power-off operation with the power key 65 (YES in S4), the control unit 5 determines whether or not the operation counter C2 is 0 (S13), and if C2 = 0, Without changing the failure counter C1, the supply of power to the image forming unit 3 or the like is stopped (S14), and the user powers on the power key 65 to wait for an operation of turning on the power (S1).

  If the operation counter C2 is not 0 when the power-off operation is performed, the control unit 5 adds 1 to the failure counter C1 (S15), and then stops supplying power to the image forming unit 3 and the like. (S14).

  As described above, the control unit 5 repeats the power-off operation and the power-on operation by the user a predetermined number of times in a state where neither the user input operation nor the image forming process is performed on the touch panel 62, and the failure counter C1 If it exceeds 2, it is determined that a failure has occurred in the touch panel 62, and the input mode is switched from the normal input mode to the temporary input mode (S16).

  If the user cannot input desired information even if the touch panel 62 is operated, the power-off operation and the power-on operation may be performed if the image forming apparatus 1 may be reset and then input from the touch panel 62. May be repeated. For this reason, when the user performs a predetermined number of power-off operations and power-on operations in a state where neither input operation by the user nor execution of image forming processing is performed on the touch panel 62, a failure has occurred in the touch panel 62. By determining and switching from the normal input mode to the temporary input mode, it becomes possible to smoothly input information related to the image forming process along the user's natural behavior pattern. Therefore, according to the image forming apparatus 1, even when a failure occurs in the touch panel 62, it is possible to accept an input operation of information regarding image forming processing without using another image forming apparatus.

  As shown in FIG. 6, when switching from the normal input mode to the temporary input mode, the display 61 displays a message confirming whether or not to switch from the normal input mode to the temporary input mode. Can be configured. That is, when the failure counter C1 exceeds 2, the control unit 5 performs a switching confirmation display (S17). For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the switching confirmation display is a display that prompts the user to operate the “Do not switch” key 67 displayed on the touch panel 62 when switching from the normal input mode to the temporary input mode is not desired. is there.

  When the “not switch” key 67 is operated on the touch panel 62 within a predetermined time (S18, S19), the control unit 5 resets both the operation counter C2 and the failure counter C1 (S20, S21), and the power key An operation of turning off the power in 65 or an input operation of information relating to image forming processing on the touch panel 62 is accepted.

  If the “not switch” key 67 is not operated on the touch panel 62 within a predetermined time, the control unit 5 switches from the normal input mode to the temporary input mode (S16).

  As shown in FIG. 8, the switching confirmation display may be a display prompting the user to hold down the home key 64 when switching from the normal input mode to the temporary input mode is desired. After the switching confirmation display is displayed on the display 61, the control unit 5 switches from the normal input mode to the temporary input mode when the home key 64 is continuously pressed for a predetermined time (S16).

  Next, another embodiment of the procedure for determining whether or not a failure has occurred in the touch panel 62 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the control unit 5 inputs detection result data from the cover open / close detection sensor 81 (S31) indicating that the document table cover (ADF) 200 has been operated from the open state to the closed state, or document stacking. When detection result data is input from the document tray sensor 82 to the effect that the paper is placed on the tray 201 (S32), it is determined that the user has placed the document, and the timer 83 starts measuring time (S33). ). Each of the cover open / close detection sensor 81 and the document tray sensor 82 constitutes a document detection sensor that detects a user's document placement operation in the image reading unit 2.

  The control unit 5 operates based on the input information when the user performs an input operation on the information regarding the image forming process on the touch panel 62 within a predetermined time (S34, S35), and starts the image forming process. If it is an instruction operation (S36), the image forming unit 3 is caused to execute an image forming process (S37).

  The control unit 5 starts from the normal input mode when the input operation by the user is not performed on the touch panel 62 even after a predetermined time has elapsed since the input of the detection result data indicating that the user's document placement operation has been detected. Switch to the temporary input mode (S38).

  When the document placement operation is performed by the user, an operation for inputting information related to the image forming process is also performed. Therefore, when the input operation by the user is not performed on the touch panel 62 even after the document placement operation is performed even after a predetermined time has elapsed, it can be considered that a failure has occurred in the touch panel 62. Therefore, in such a case, it is possible to input information relating to the image forming process by switching from the normal input mode to the temporary input mode.

  Next, yet another embodiment of the procedure for determining whether or not a failure has occurred in the touch panel 62 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 10, when the user turns on the power using the power key 65 (S41), the control unit 5 supplies power to the image forming unit 3 and the like (S42).

  As will be described later, when the power key 65 is operated to turn off the power, the control unit 5 stores the operation data on the touch panel 62 at that time in the RAM 53 as coordinate data in the display screen of the display 61.

  When an input operation by the user is performed on the touch panel 62 (S43), the control unit 5 stores the coordinate data stored when the power is turned off immediately before and the coordinates obtained when the touch panel 62 is operated when the power is turned on this time. It is determined whether or not the data matches (S44).

  As shown in FIG. 11A, when the touch panel 62 is not broken, the coordinate data hardly match. If the coordinate data do not match, or if the operation data input in S43 is not an instruction operation to start the image forming process (S45), the control unit 5 further accepts an input operation on the touch panel 62 (S46), and the image forming process In the case of the start instruction operation, the image forming unit 3 is caused to execute image forming processing (S47).

  As described above, when the user performs a power-off operation on the power key 65 (S48), the control unit 5 stores the operation data on the touch panel 62 at that time in the RAM 53 as coordinate data in the display screen of the display 61. (S49), the supply of power to the image forming unit 3 and the like is stopped (S50).

  As shown in FIG. 11B, when a foreign object 622 such as dust is sandwiched between the frame body 621 of the touch panel 62 and the touch panel 62, or the touch panel 62 has a scratch 623 as shown in FIG. If it is attached, a specific part of the touch panel 62 is kept pressed, the coordinate data stored at the time of the previous power-off operation, and the touch panel 62 being operated at the time of the current power-on operation. The coordinate data matches.

  If the coordinate data match in S44, the control unit 5 switches from the normal input mode to the temporary input mode, assuming that a failure has occurred in the touch panel 62 (S51). Thereby, even when a failure occurs in the touch panel 62, it is possible to input information regarding the image forming process.

  Next, an input operation in the temporary input mode will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 12, in the normal input mode (S61), the user touches a portion of the touch panel 62 where a desired operation key icon is displayed among the plurality of operation key icons displayed on the display 61. In (S62), information relating to a desired image forming process is selected, determined, and input (S63). That is, the control unit 5 stores information related to the image forming process in the RAM 53 based on an input operation by the user on the touch panel 62 in the normal input mode. The control unit 5 controls the image forming unit 3 and the like based on information stored in the RAM 53. When the instruction information for starting the image forming process is input (S64), the control unit 5 causes the image forming unit 3 to execute the image forming process (S65).

  In the temporary input mode (S61), as shown in FIGS. 13 (A) to 13 (C), the control unit 5 displays the display states of the icons of the plurality of operation keys displayed on the display 61. Based on the display state switching data output every predetermined time, switching is performed in order for every predetermined time (S66 to S68). For example, the control unit 5 highlights icons of a plurality of operation keys one by one at predetermined time intervals.

  When a user presses the home key 64 when a desired operation key icon among the plurality of operation key icons displayed on the display 61 is highlighted, the user key is highlighted when the home key 64 is pressed. Information relating to the image forming process corresponding to the operation key icon is input to the control unit 5 (S69). That is, in this embodiment, a plurality of operation keys are sequentially selected at predetermined time intervals, and information corresponding to a desired operation key is determined by pressing the home key 64 by the user.

  As shown in FIGS. 13A to 13C, the control unit 5 inputs selection information for selection display screens for color mode selection, paper size selection, and image formation number selection. The hierarchical display is switched every time. A plurality of operation key icons are displayed on each selection display screen.

  When the instruction information for starting the image forming process is input (S70), the control unit 5 causes the image forming unit 3 to execute the image forming process (S71).

  As described above, since each of the plurality of operation keys is sequentially selected every predetermined time, when the user presses the home key when the desired operation key is selected, a desired operation related to the image forming process is performed. Information is entered. Therefore, according to the image forming apparatus 1, even when a failure occurs in the touch panel 62, it is possible to accept an input operation of information regarding image forming processing without using another image forming apparatus.

  In this embodiment, the timer 83 constitutes display state switching means, and the home key 64 constitutes first operation detection means.

  As shown in FIGS. 14A to 14C, the control unit 5 sequentially displays icons of a plurality of operation keys at predetermined positions on the display 61 at predetermined time intervals in the temporary input mode. It can be constituted as follows. Assuming that the operation key displayed at the predetermined position on the display 61 is the selected operation key, the user presses the home key when the icon of the desired operation key is displayed at the predetermined position on the display 61, thereby forming an image. Desired information regarding the process is input.

  In the process of S67, instead of pressing the home key 64, the original table cover 200 is changed from the open state to the closed state, the change from the closed state to the open state, or the paper is loaded on the original stacking tray 201. Or removing the sheet from the document stacking tray 201, or changing the front panel 37 from the open state to the closed state or from the closed state to the open state. In other words, the first operation detection means can be configured by the cover open / close detection sensor 81, the document tray sensor 82, or the panel open / close detection sensor 84. Even when a failure occurs in the touch panel 62, the first operation detection means relates to the image forming process. Information relating to the image forming process can be input using an existing member that detects the user's action.

  Next, another embodiment of the input operation in the temporary input mode will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 15, the input operations (S82 to S85) in the normal input mode (S81) are the same as the above-described S62 to S65 shown in FIG. That is, in the normal input mode (S81), when a user touches a desired operation key icon among a plurality of operation key icons displayed on the touch panel 62 (S82), information regarding a desired image forming process is obtained. Selection and determination are made and input to the controller 5 (S83). When the instruction information for starting the image forming process is input (S84), the control unit 5 causes the image forming unit 3 to execute the image forming process (S85).

  In the temporary input mode (S81), the control unit 5 depresses the home key 64 by the user when the cover open / close detection sensor 81 outputs detection result data indicating that the document table cover 200 is open (S86). Each time (S87), the display state of the icons of the plurality of operation keys displayed on the display 61 is switched (S88). As an example, icons of a plurality of operation keys are highlighted one by one every time the home key 64 is pressed. In this embodiment, the home key 64 constitutes first operation detection means, and the cover open / close detection sensor 81 constitutes second operation detection means.

  In addition, when the cover open / close detection sensor 81 outputs detection result data indicating that the document table cover 200 is closed to the control unit 5 (S86), when the user presses the home key 64 (S89), the display is displayed. Based on the display states of the icons of the plurality of operation keys displayed on 61, information relating to the image forming process is input to the control unit 5 (S90). As an example, information related to the image forming process corresponding to the icon of the operation key highlighted when the home key 64 is pressed by the user is input to the control unit 5.

  When the instruction information for starting the image forming process is input (S91), the control unit 5 causes the image forming unit 3 to execute the image forming process (S92).

  As described above, the user can select a desired operation key by repeatedly pressing the home key 64 with the document table cover 200 opened, and when the desired operation key is selected, the document table cover 200 is selected. By pressing the home key 64 in the closed state, it is possible to input information related to the desired image forming process to the control unit 5. Therefore, also in the image forming apparatus 1 according to this embodiment, even when a failure occurs in the touch panel 62, an input operation of information regarding image forming processing can be accepted without using another image forming apparatus.

  Further, since the function (selection function or determination function) of the home key 64 is changed depending on the open / close state of the platen cover 200, a desired function is selected and assigned to one home key 64 from a plurality of functions. Is possible.

  By repeatedly pressing the home key 64 with the document table cover 200 closed, the operation key is selected, and when the desired operation key is selected, the document table cover 200 is opened and the home key 64 is pressed. By doing so, it is also possible to configure so that information relating to a desired image forming process is input to the control unit 5. The operation key is selected by changing the open / close state of the document table cover 200 while the home key 64 is pressed. When the desired operation key is selected, the pressing of the home key 64 is stopped and the document table cover 200 is pressed. It is also possible to configure so that information relating to a desired image forming process is input to the control unit 5 by changing the open / close state of.

  Further, instead of the cover opening / closing detection sensor 81 functioning as the second operation detecting means in S86 and the home key 64 functioning as the first operation detecting means in S87 and S89, the first operation detecting means and the second operation detecting means are provided. The home key 64, the cover open / close detection sensor 81, the document tray sensor 82, and the panel open / close detection sensor 84 can be combined.

  Next, still another embodiment of the input operation in the temporary input mode will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 16, the input operation (S102 to S105) in the normal input mode (S101) is the same as S62 to S65 described above shown in FIG.

  In the temporary input mode (S101), the control unit 5 switches the display state of the display 61 (S107) every time the home key 64 is pressed (S106). As an example, icons of a plurality of operation keys are highlighted one by one every time the home key 64 is pressed.

  When detection result data indicating that the document table cover 200 has been changed from the open state to the closed state is input from the cover open / close detection sensor 81 to the control unit 5 (S108), display of icons of a plurality of operation keys displayed on the display 61 is displayed. Based on the state, information related to the image forming process is input to the control unit 5 (S109). As an example, information related to the image forming process corresponding to the icon of the operation key highlighted when the document table cover 200 is changed from the open state to the closed state by the user is input to the control unit 5.

  When the instruction information for starting the image forming process is input (S110), the control unit 5 causes the image forming unit 3 to execute the image forming process (S111).

  In this embodiment, the home key constitutes first operation detection means, and the cover open / close detection sensor 81 constitutes second operation detection means.

  As described above, even when a failure occurs in the touch panel 62, a desired operation key is selected by the user's operation related to the image forming process, and the operation key is determined by another user's operation related to the image forming process. Desired information regarding the process is input.

  The information is sent to the control unit 5 based on the second operation detecting means for detecting the detection result data as the display state switching data for switching the display state of the display 61 and the display state of the display 61 when the detection result data is output. The input first operation detecting means can be constituted by a combination of any two of the home key 64, the cover open / close detection sensor 81, the document tray sensor 82, and the panel open / close detection sensor 84.

  Further, the operation unit 6 can be configured as a tilt type in which the tilt angle is freely displaceable, and the image forming apparatus 1 can include a tilt angle detection sensor 85 that detects the tilt angle of the operation unit 6. As an example, the tilt angle detection sensor 85 outputs detection result data to the control unit 5 for each of the first state in which the tilt angle of the operation unit 6 is smaller than a predetermined threshold and the second state in which the tilt angle is greater than or equal to the above threshold. To do. The inclination angle detection sensor 85 can constitute either the first operation detection unit or the second operation detection unit in each of the above-described embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 12, 15, and 16.

  Furthermore, the number of input operation means in the temporary input mode is not limited to two, that is, an operation key selection means and a determination means, but may be three or more. For example, in a state where the second operation detection means (for example, the document table cover 200) outputs the 21st detection result data (for example, the open state), the third operation detection means (for example, the inclination angle detection sensor 85) is the 31st. Each time the first operation detection means (for example, the home key 64) outputs the eleventh detection result data (for example, pressed) in a state where the detection result data (for example, the tilt angle of the operation panel 6 is small) is output, The key icons are highlighted one by one in order, and the third operation detection means (for example, the tilt angle detection sensor 85) outputs the 32nd detection result data (for example, the tilt angle of the operation panel 6 is large). Each time the first operation detecting means (for example, the home key 64) outputs the eleventh detection result data (for example, pressing), the operation key icon is reversely fed one by one. The first operation detection means (for example, the home key 64) is detected in the eleventh state while the second operation detection means (for example, the document table cover 200) outputs the 22nd detection result data (for example, the closed state). Information relating to the image forming process corresponding to the icon of the operation key highlighted when the result data (for example, pressed) is output can be input to the control unit 5.

  The third operation detection means, the second operation detection means, and the first operation detection means respectively select a display state switching method (for example, forward feed or reverse feed) of the display 61, select information, and determine information. It can be configured to perform any function. The method for switching the display state of the display 61 is, for example, a feeding direction in which highlight display of icons of a plurality of operation keys is performed in forward or backward, or switching of highlight display of a plurality of operation keys. It can also be speed.

  The above description of the embodiment is to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is shown not by the above embodiments but by the claims. Furthermore, the scope of the present invention is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the scope of the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming apparatus 2 Image reading part 3 Image forming part 4 Paper feed part 5 Control part 58 Failure detection part 6 Operation panel 61 Display (display part)
62 Touch Panel 63 Input Operation Unit 64 Home Key (Operation Detection Means)
65 Power key 81 Cover open / close detection sensor (operation detection means)
82 Document tray sensor (operation detection means)
83 Timer (display state switching means)
84 Panel open / close detection sensor (operation detection means)
85 Inclination angle detection sensor (operation detection means)
200 ADF (original platen cover)

Claims (9)

An image reading unit for reading an image of a document;
An input operation unit composed of a display unit for displaying a plurality of operation key images and a touch panel for detecting a pressing position of the user on the upper surface of the display unit;
A plurality of operation detecting means for detecting a user's operation relating to the image forming process;
An image forming unit that executes an image forming process on paper;
A failure detector for detecting the occurrence of a failure in the touch panel;
Display state switching means for outputting display state switching data for switching the display state of the display unit in a state in which the failure detection unit detects the occurrence of a failure in the touch panel;
In a state where the failure detection unit has not detected the occurrence of a failure in the touch panel, the failure detection unit operates in a normal input mode that receives input of information regarding the image forming process based on a detection result of the touch panel, and the failure detection unit When the occurrence of a failure in the touch panel is detected, the display state of the display unit is switched based on the display state switching data, and the first operation detection unit among the plurality of operation detection units detects a user operation. A control unit that operates in a temporary input mode that receives input of information related to the image forming process based on a display state of the display unit ,
The control unit recognizes a detection result of a second operation detection unit among the plurality of operation detection units as the display state switching data in the temporary input mode, and switches the display state of the display unit.
One of the first operation detection unit and the second operation detection unit is one hard key provided separately from the touch panel, and the other is a user's document placement operation in the image reading unit. An image forming apparatus which is a document detection sensor to detect . An image reading unit for reading an image of a document;
An input operation unit composed of a display unit for displaying a plurality of operation key images and a touch panel for detecting a pressing position of the user on the upper surface of the display unit;
A plurality of operation detecting means for detecting a user's operation relating to the image forming process;
An image forming unit that executes an image forming process on paper;
A failure detector for detecting the occurrence of a failure in the touch panel;
Display state switching means for outputting display state switching data for switching the display state of the display unit in a state in which the failure detection unit detects the occurrence of a failure in the touch panel;
In a state where the failure detection unit has not detected the occurrence of a failure in the touch panel, the failure detection unit operates in a normal input mode that receives input of information regarding the image forming process based on a detection result of the touch panel, and the failure detection unit When the occurrence of a failure in the touch panel is detected, the display state of the display unit is switched based on the display state switching data, and the first operation detection unit among the plurality of operation detection units detects a user operation. A control unit that operates in a temporary input mode that receives input of information related to the image forming process based on a display state of the display unit ,
In the temporary input mode, the control unit outputs when the second operation detection unit outputs a first detection result among the plurality of operation detection units and the first operation detection unit detects a user action. When the second operation detection unit outputs the second detection result, the first operation detection unit detects the user's action when the display state switching data is recognized and the display state of the display unit is switched. Receiving information related to the image forming process based on the display state of the display unit when
One of the first operation detection unit and the second operation detection unit is one hard key provided separately from the touch panel, and the other is a user's document placement operation in the image reading unit. An image forming apparatus which is a document detection sensor to detect . A tilt-type input operation unit that includes a display unit that displays a plurality of operation key images and a touch panel that detects a pressing position of a user on the upper surface of the display unit , the tilt angle being freely displaceable ;
A plurality of operation detecting means for detecting a user's operation relating to the image forming process;
An image forming unit that executes an image forming process on paper;
A failure detector for detecting the occurrence of a failure in the touch panel;
Display state switching means for outputting display state switching data for switching the display state of the display unit in a state in which the failure detection unit detects the occurrence of a failure in the touch panel;
In a state where the failure detection unit has not detected the occurrence of a failure in the touch panel, the failure detection unit operates in a normal input mode that receives input of information regarding the image forming process based on a detection result of the touch panel, and the failure detection unit When the occurrence of a failure in the touch panel is detected, the display state of the display unit is switched based on the display state switching data, and the first operation detection unit among the plurality of operation detection units detects a user operation. A control unit that operates in a temporary input mode that receives input of information related to the image forming process based on a display state of the display unit ,
The control unit recognizes a detection result of a second operation detection unit among the plurality of operation detection units as the display state switching data in the temporary input mode, and switches the display state of the display unit.
One of the first operation detection means and the second operation detection means is one hard key provided separately from the touch panel, and the other is an inclination angle for detecting an inclination angle of the input operation unit. An image forming apparatus which is a detection sensor . A tilt-type input operation unit that includes a display unit that displays a plurality of operation key images and a touch panel that detects a pressing position of a user on the upper surface of the display unit , the tilt angle being freely displaceable ;
A plurality of operation detecting means for detecting a user's operation relating to the image forming process;
An image forming unit that executes an image forming process on paper;
A failure detector for detecting the occurrence of a failure in the touch panel;
Display state switching means for outputting display state switching data for switching the display state of the display unit in a state in which the failure detection unit detects the occurrence of a failure in the touch panel;
In a state where the failure detection unit has not detected the occurrence of a failure in the touch panel, the failure detection unit operates in a normal input mode that receives input of information regarding the image forming process based on a detection result of the touch panel, and the failure detection unit When the occurrence of a failure in the touch panel is detected, the display state of the display unit is switched based on the display state switching data, and the first operation detection unit among the plurality of operation detection units detects a user operation. A control unit that operates in a temporary input mode that receives input of information related to the image forming process based on a display state of the display unit ,
In the temporary input mode, the control unit outputs when the second operation detection unit outputs a first detection result among the plurality of operation detection units and the first operation detection unit detects a user action. When the second operation detection unit outputs the second detection result, the first operation detection unit detects the user's action when the display state switching data is recognized and the display state of the display unit is switched. Receiving information related to the image forming process based on the display state of the display unit when
One of the first operation detection means and the second operation detection means is one hard key provided separately from the touch panel, and the other is an inclination angle for detecting an inclination angle of the input operation unit. An image forming apparatus which is a detection sensor . The failure detection unit has failed in the touch panel when the touch position of the user on the upper surface of the display unit is not detected by the touch panel for a predetermined time after the document detection sensor detects the document placement operation. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the image forming apparatus is determined as follows . An image reading unit that reads an image of the document;
At least one of the plurality of operation detection means is a document detection sensor that detects a document placement operation of a user in the image reading unit,
The failure detection unit has failed in the touch panel when the touch position of the user on the upper surface of the display unit is not detected by the touch panel for a predetermined time after the document detection sensor detects the document placement operation. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3 , wherein the image forming apparatus is determined as follows . The failure detection unit generates a failure in the touch panel when the power is turned OFF and ON repeatedly for a predetermined number of times without detection of a user's pressing position by the touch panel and execution of image forming processing by the image forming unit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus determines that it has been performed . In the failure detection unit, the user's pressing position on the upper surface of the display unit detected by the touch panel when the power is turned off immediately before the power supply matches the user's pressing position on the upper surface of the display unit detected by the touch panel when the power is turned on. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein when it is determined that a failure has occurred in the touch panel. The control unit is displayed on the display unit to confirm whether or not to switch from the normal input mode to the temporary input mode when the failure detection unit detects the occurrence of a failure in the touch panel. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

Images