JP6548778B2 - Operating device, electronic device including the operating device, and image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an operating device, an electronic device including the operating device, and an image forming apparatus, and more particularly to a technique for improving the usability of the operating device.

  As one type of information processing apparatus, image forming apparatuses (typically copying machines) have been introduced in many business places (company, office, etc.). Like a multifunction peripheral (MFP (Multifunction Peripheral)), which is one of such image forming apparatuses, such as a copy mode, an image communication mode (typically, a facsimile mode), a print mode compatible with a network, and a scanner mode. There are also many devices that have multiple modes.

  Such an information processing apparatus includes an operation device including an operation unit for setting various functions, parameters, and the like, and a display unit for displaying a progress status of a job and the like. In recent years, the number of functions in information processing apparatuses has significantly increased. When a function is added, the configuration of the user interface (hereinafter referred to as "UI") of the operation apparatus becomes complicated accordingly. For a user who is not familiar with the information processing apparatus, a UI having a complicated configuration may be difficult to use.

  Ideally the UI is easy to use for everyone. It is easy to realize such a UI by limiting the users to some extent. However, for example, an information processing apparatus such as a multifunction peripheral is rich in functions and capable of various processes, and thus has a wide user group. In this case, since it is difficult to limit the users, it is difficult to realize an easy-to-use UI for anyone.

  Therefore, conventionally, in order to provide an easy-to-use UI for many users, a method has been proposed in which a plurality of UIs are prepared and the user selects a UI suitable for the user.

  Patent Document 1 listed below describes a communication apparatus adopting such a method. The communication device of Patent Document 1 includes a display unit for displaying a menu, and an easy key for switching the menu display between a normal menu and an easy menu. In the normal menu, almost all aspects (functions) selectable in the communication related operation are listed. The simple menu lists predetermined aspects (functions) out of all aspects (all functions) selectable in the communication related operation. The normal menu is a menu for users who require advanced functions, and the simple menu is a menu for single users that is sufficient for users. The easy key is a key for setting in advance which of the normal menu and the easy menu is to be displayed on the display unit. When, for example, the facsimile transmission key is pressed while the standby screen is displayed, the simple menu or the normal menu is displayed on the display unit according to the on / off state of the easy key. The user can display a menu suitable for the user by operating the easy key and setting the display menu in advance.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-51903

  In the communication device of Patent Document 1, either the normal menu or the easy menu is preselected by the user. If you do not know which menu to choose, the user is confused. Although a single function is considered to be sufficient and an easy menu is selected, the easy menu may not have a desired function. Furthermore, although the normal menu is selected, the normal menu may have too many functions and be difficult to use. That is, the menu selected in advance may not be a menu suitable for the user.

  In such a case, in Patent Document 1, it is necessary to return to the standby screen once to switch the menu, and then to display the switched menu. Such an operation is cumbersome and time-consuming for the user. In addition, the user needs to make settings etc. from the beginning in the menu after switching. Therefore, the communication device of Patent Document 1 is not always convenient for the user.

  The present invention has been made to solve the problems as described above, and one object of the present invention is to provide an operating device that is easy for the user to use, and an electronic device and an image forming apparatus provided with the operating device. It is to be.

The operating device according to the first aspect of the present invention is an operating device provided in a control target device. The operation device receives display means for displaying information related to processing performed by the control target device, input receiving means for receiving an operation instruction input for the information displayed on the display means, and the input receiving means. Display control for controlling display means to display a first operation screen including a plurality of items settable by an operation instruction input or a second operation screen including a part of a plurality of items Means for controlling the display control means in response to reception of an instruction input by the user, the operation screen displayed on the display means being one of the first operation screen or the second operation screen And display switching means for switching from the screen to the other operation screen. The display control means controls the display means to display , on the first operation screen and the second operation screen, a reset key for canceling the setting by the operation instruction input accepted by the input acceptance means .

In the present operation device, in response to the reception of an instruction input by the user, the displayed operation screen is switched from one operation screen of the first operation screen or the second operation screen to the other operation screen . Even when the user does not know which screen to select, the operation screen can be easily switched, so that the operation screen suitable for the user can be easily selected.
Preferably, the display control means is different from the start key for receiving the start of execution of the control target device displayed on the second operation screen from the start key for receiving the start of execution of the control target device on the first operation screen. Control the display means to display.

  Preferably, the display means displays, on the second operation screen, a start key for receiving an operation instruction input for start of execution of the control target device, and a character string indicating start of execution superimposed on the start key, and When the second operation screen is displayed, the start key of the second operation screen is displayed on the first operation screen larger than the start key for accepting the operation instruction input for starting the execution of the control target device, and the display control means In response to switching the display from the second operation screen to the first operation screen, the display of the display means is controlled to delete the character string indicating the start of execution.

  More preferably, the display switching unit switches the display according to the determination unit for determining whether there is an item set before the display is switched by the display switching unit and the determination result of the determination unit. And a setting holding unit for holding the setting state of the set item on the operation screen after being set.

  More preferably, the determination means includes means for determining whether or not an item not included in the second operation screen among the plurality of items is set in the first operation screen, and the display control means includes: When the display is switched from the first operation screen to the second operation screen, an item not included in the second operation screen among the plurality of items is set according to the determination result of the means for determining Means for controlling the display means to display the second operation screen in a manner indicating

  More preferably, the operating device further includes release means for releasing only the setting of the item not included in the second operation screen among the plurality of items when the second operation screen is displayed. .

  More preferably, the first operation screen and the second operation screen each include an operation item operated by the user when switching the display of the operation screen, and the display switching means operates the operation item by the user To control the display control means to switch the operation screen displayed on the display means from the operation screen of one of the first operation screen and the second operation screen to the other operation screen. Including means.

  More preferably, the determination means includes means for determining whether an item common to the first operation screen and the second operation screen is set before the display is switched by the display switching means. The setting holding means includes means for holding the setting state of the set common item on the operation screen after the display is switched by the display switching means according to the judgment result of the judgment means.

  An electronic device according to a second aspect of the present invention is an electronic device including the operating device according to the first aspect.

  An image forming apparatus according to a third aspect of the present invention is an image forming apparatus including the operating device according to the first aspect.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to obtain an operating device that is easy for the user to use, and an electronic apparatus and an image forming apparatus including the operating device.

FIG. 2 is a control block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a view showing an example of a UI screen (normal UI) displayed on the operation unit of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 7 is a view showing another screen example on the UI screen (normal UI) of FIG. 2; FIG. 6 is a view showing an example of a UI screen (simple UI) displayed on the operation unit of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. 1; It is a flowchart which shows the control structure of the program run by the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. It is a detailed flow of FIG.5 S1010. FIG. 7 is a diagram for describing a switching operation of a UI screen displayed on the operation unit. FIG. 14 is a view showing an example of a UI screen (simple UI) displayed on the operation unit of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the example of another screen in the UI screen of FIG. FIG. 7 is a diagram for describing a switching operation of a UI screen displayed on the operation unit. It is a figure which shows an example of UI screen (simple UI) displayed on the operation unit of the image forming apparatus which concerns on the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of UI screen (simple UI) displayed on the operation unit of the image forming apparatus which concerns on the 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a flow chart which shows the control structure of the program run with the image forming device concerning a 5th embodiment of the present invention. It is a detailed flow of step S2010 of FIG.

  In the following embodiments, the same parts are given the same reference numerals. Their functions and names are also identical. Therefore, detailed description about them will not be repeated. Hereinafter, an example in which the present invention is applied to an image forming apparatus which is one type of information processing apparatus will be described.

First Embodiment
Referring to FIG. 1, an image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment is a multifunction peripheral (MFP) having a copy function, a printer function, and the like. The image forming apparatus 100 has a so-called laser (electrophotographic) printing function that uses laser light for exposure. However, other types of printing functions may be provided.

  The image forming apparatus 100 has a plurality of operation modes such as a copy mode, a scanner mode, and a facsimile mode. The image forming apparatus 100 executes various jobs corresponding to the set operation mode by setting one of the operation modes by the user.

[Hardware configuration]
The image forming apparatus 100 includes a control unit 110, an operation unit 120, a document reading unit 130, an image processing unit 140, an image forming unit 150, a paper feeding unit 160, and a network interface (hereinafter referred to as “network I / F”) 170. And a FAX communication unit 180.

  The control unit 110 is substantially a computer, and is a central processing unit (CPU) 112 that controls the entire image forming apparatus 100, a read only memory (ROM) 114 for storing programs and the like, and a volatile storage device. A random access memory (RAM) 116 and a storage device 118 are included. The storage device 118 is a non-volatile storage device that retains data even when power is cut off, and includes a hard disk drive (HDD) and a flash memory. A BUS line 190 is connected to the CPU 112, and the ROM 114, the RAM 116 and the storage device 118 are electrically connected to the BUS line 190.

  The CPU 112 executes various computer programs in response to an instruction from the operation unit 120 or the like to execute desired processing such as operation of each part of the image forming apparatus 100 and communication with an external device such as an information processing apparatus. The various computer programs described above are stored in advance in the ROM 114 or the storage device 118, and are read out from the ROM 114 or the storage device 118 and transferred to the RAM 116 when desired processing is performed. The CPU 112 reads and interprets a program instruction from an address in the RAM 116 specified by a value stored in a register called a program counter (not shown) in the CPU 112. The CPU 112 also reads data necessary for the operation from the address specified by the read instruction, and executes the operation corresponding to the instruction on the data. The result of execution is also stored at an address designated by the instruction, such as the RAM 116, the storage 118 and the register in the CPU 112.

  The storage device 118 stores a computer program for realizing general operations and the like of the image forming apparatus 100. The computer program is provided from an external information processing apparatus or the like via the network I / F 170. The computer program may be provided by a storage medium such as a DVD, for example, in which the computer program is recorded. That is, for example, a DVD as a recording medium for a computer program is loaded into a DVD drive (not shown) incorporated in the image forming apparatus 100, and the computer program is read from the DVD and installed in the storage device 118. It is also good. The storage device 118 also stores various data including image data and the like.

  The operation unit 120, the document reading unit 130, the image processing unit 140, the image forming unit 150, the paper feeding unit 160, the network I / F 170, and the FAX communication unit 180 are electrically connected to the BUS line 190.

  Operation unit 120 accepts an operation by the user. The operation unit 120 includes a touch panel display 122. Touch panel display 122 includes a display panel 124 configured of a liquid crystal panel or the like, and a touch panel 126 disposed on display panel 124 and detecting a touched position. The display panel 124 provides the user with various information such as information on the state of the image forming apparatus 100 and the states of various processes. The touch panel display 122 provides an interactive operation interface (UI) to the user. The interactive operation interface receives a user's instruction for the entire operation of the image forming apparatus 100 from the touch panel 126, displays the content of the instruction on the display panel 124, and controls the control unit 110 according to the instruction. Output to

  For example, on the display panel 124, a home screen (not shown) for selecting a desired operation mode from a plurality of operation modes, the current status of the image forming apparatus 100, the FAX transmission destination designation status, and job processing. The status etc. are displayed. The display operation of the display panel 124 is controlled by the CPU 112. A software key is displayed on the display area of the display panel 124. When the user presses this software key with a finger, touch panel 126 detects the pressed position. The CPU 112 collates the display position of the software key on the program with the position at which the touch panel is pressed, and selects an operation mode, sets various functions and parameters, and instructs an operation based on the collation result.

  Operation unit 120 further includes a home key (not shown) consisting of a hardware key. The home key is a key for giving a transition instruction to the home screen. For example, when the home key is operated by the user, the home screen is displayed on the display panel 124 (touch panel display 122). When one operation mode is selected from the plurality of operation modes by the user's operation on the home screen, the touch panel display 122 displays an operation screen (UI screen) of the selected operation mode.

  A plurality of UI screens are prepared for each operation mode. The plurality of UI screens include a normal UI, which is a normal UI screen, and a simple UI whose operation is easier to understand than the normal UI. The normal UI is a full-featured UI screen on which all functions of the selected operation mode can be set. Usually, the UI includes a plurality of software keys for setting the function of the selected operation mode.

  On the other hand, the easy UI is a UI screen that allows simple and easy operation. The simple UI can set only a predetermined function (a part of functions) of all the functions of the selected operation mode. That is, in the simple UI, settable functions are limited. The simple UI includes a software key for setting a predetermined function (a part of functions) of the functions of the selected operation mode. The image forming apparatus 100 is configured to be able to switch the UI screen at an arbitrary timing from the normal UI to the simple UI or from the simple UI to the normal UI in accordance with a user's instruction. Furthermore, when the UI screen is switched after the function is set, the image forming apparatus 100 is configured to hold the setting before switching even after the switching.

  The document reading unit 130 includes a scanner and a CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) line sensor (all not shown). The scanner forms a reflected light image obtained by irradiating light from the light source (not shown) onto the image surface of the document placed on the document placement table, and moves the light source on the CCD line sensor. Scan the original while scanning. The CCD line sensor sequentially photoelectrically converts the formed reflected light image and outputs it as image data to the image processing unit 140. That is, at the time of copying or scanning of a document, the document reading unit 130 reads image information from the document placed on the document placement table by a scanner, converts the read image information into an electric signal by a CCD line sensor, Output to the image processing unit 140 as

  The image processing unit 140 includes an MPU (Micro Processing Unit, not shown). The image processing unit 140 performs various processing including predetermined image processing such as rasterization processing on image data received from the document reading unit 130 or an information processing apparatus or the like, for example, and print data of a predetermined gradation. Are output to the image forming unit 150.

  The image forming unit 150 prints an image represented by image data in color or single color on a recording sheet. For example, the photosensitive drum, charging device, laser scanning unit (LSU), developing device, transfer device, cleaning A device, a fixing device, and a charge removing device are provided. The image forming unit 150 is provided with, for example, a conveyance path, and the recording sheet fed from the paper supply unit 160 is conveyed along the conveyance path.

  The paper feed unit 160 includes a cassette tray (not shown) capable of storing a plurality of (for example, about 500) recording sheets. The sheet feeding unit 160 pulls out the recording sheets placed on the recording sheets stored in the cassette tray one by one, and feeds the recording sheets to the conveyance path of the image forming unit 150. While the recording sheet is being conveyed along the conveyance path of the image forming unit 150, the recording sheet passes between the photosensitive drum and the transfer device, passes through the fixing device, and performs printing on the recording sheet. Be

  The photosensitive drum is rotated in one direction, and the surface thereof is uniformly charged by the charging device after being cleaned by the cleaning device and the charge removing device. The laser scanning unit modulates laser light based on image data to be printed, and repeatedly scans the surface of the photosensitive drum in the main scanning direction with this laser light to form an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum Do. The developing device supplies toner to the surface of the photosensitive drum to develop an electrostatic latent image, and forms a toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum. The transfer device transfers the toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum to the recording sheet passing between the transfer device and the photosensitive drum.

  The fixing device includes a heating roller for heating the recording sheet, and a pressure roller for pressing the recording sheet. The recording sheet is heated by the heating roller and pressurized by the pressure roller, whereby the toner image transferred onto the recording sheet is fixed to the recording sheet. The recording sheet discharged (printed) from the fixing device is discharged to the discharge tray.

  The network I / F 170 interfaces with the network 50. The image forming apparatus 100 can perform data communication with an information processing apparatus or the like on the network 50 according to a predetermined communication protocol via the network I / F 170. The image forming apparatus 100 can receive an instruction signal instructing execution of various processes such as a print job from the information processing apparatus via the network I / F 170.

  The FAX communication unit 180 is an interface connected to the telephone line network 60 and performing facsimile communication via the telephone line network 60. The image forming apparatus 100 can perform FAX transmission / reception with an external facsimile machine (not shown) via the FAX communication unit 180 and the telephone network 60.

[UI screen configuration]
Hereinafter, the normal UI and the simple UI displayed on the touch panel display 122 will be described by taking the case where the selected operation mode is the copy mode as an example.

  Referring to FIG. 2, the normal UI 200 includes a “monochrome” key 210 for starting monochrome copy printing, a “color” key 212 for starting color copy printing, and a “preview” key for displaying a preview image. 214, and a "reset" key 216 for canceling the setting and the like. The normal UI 200 further includes a plurality of software keys (setting keys) for setting various functions available in the copy mode. When these setting keys are operated, the function corresponding to the operated setting key is set. In FIG. 2, these setting keys are respectively “setting A” key 220, “setting B” key 222, “setting C” key 224, “setting D” key 226, “setting E” key 228, and “others”. It is shown in simplified form as key 230.

  A “setting A” key 220 to a “setting E” key 228 are software keys for setting a function that is used relatively frequently. The “setting A” key 220 is, for example, a software key for setting the number of copies, and the “setting B” key 222 is, for example, a software key for setting double-sided copying / single-sided copying. The “setting C” key 224 is, for example, a software key for setting a color mode, the “setting D” key 226 is, for example, a software key for setting a copy density, and the “setting E” key 228 is, for example, a magnification It is a software key for setting. The functions other than these are set by the operation of the "other" key 230.

  Referring to FIG. 3, when "other" key 230 is operated, a screen 250 including setting keys for setting other functions is popped up. In FIG. 3, an example in which a plurality of setting keys are displayed in the screen 250 is shown. In FIG. 3, the plurality of setting keys are the “setting F” key 232, the “setting G” key 234, the “setting H” key 236, the “setting I” key 238, the “setting J” key 240, and It is shown in simplified form as a "set K" key 242. The functions set by these setting keys 232 to 242 ("setting F" key 232 to "setting K" key 242) are, for example, page grouping, sorting, paper discharge tray selection, saddle stitching, copy-forgery-inhibited printing, and book copying And other functions.

  Referring again to FIG. 2, the normal UI 200 further includes a “switch” key 260 for switching the UI screen displayed on the touch panel display 122 from the normal UI to the simple UI.

  Referring to FIG. 4, the simple UI 300 is an easy-to-see UI screen in which basic functions are simply summarized. The simple UI 300 includes a “copy start” key 310 for starting copy printing, and a “reset” key 312 for canceling settings and the like. The simple UI 300 further includes a software key (setting key) for setting some functions (for example, basic functions) of the functions available in the copy mode. When these setting keys are operated, the function corresponding to the operated setting key is set. In FIG. 4, these setting keys are simplified and shown as a “setting A” key 320, a “setting B” key 322, and a “setting C” key 324, respectively. The “setting A” key 322, the “setting B” key 324, and the “setting C” key 326 are respectively the “setting A” key 220, the “setting B” key 224, and the “setting C” key 226 of the normal UI 200. Have the same function. The simple UI 300 further includes a “switch” key 330 for switching the UI screen displayed on the touch panel display 122 from the simple UI to the normal UI.

  In the setting of the color mode in the normal UI 200 and the simple UI 300, it is possible to set "automatic", "full color", "monochrome" or "two-color". When set to “automatic”, the image forming apparatus 100 automatically determines the color of the document, and executes copy printing in full color if the document is color, and in black if it is black and white. When set to “full color”, the image forming apparatus 100 performs full-color copy printing using toners of all four colors of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black. When “monochrome” is set, the image forming apparatus 100 executes copy printing in black and white regardless of the color of the document. When the “two-color color” is set, the image forming apparatus 100 executes copy printing in the designated two colors. In the simple UI 300, the color mode is set to, for example, "automatic" as a default. Therefore, when the setting of the color mode is not changed, color copy printing or monochrome copy printing is performed according to the color of the document when the “copy start” key 310 of the simple UI 300 is operated.

Software Configuration
A control structure of a computer program executed by image forming apparatus 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 5 in order to improve the usability of the user in the operation of the selected operation mode. Hereinafter, the case where the selected operation mode is the copy mode will be described.

  This program is started in response to selection of one operation mode (copy mode) from among a plurality of operation modes by the user's operation on the home screen. The program includes a step S1000 of displaying a UI screen on the touch panel display 122. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the normal UI 200 is set to be displayed on the touch panel display 122 in response to the selection of the copy mode from the home screen. Therefore, in step S1000, the normal UI 200 is displayed on the touch panel display 122. Note that the simple UI 300 may be displayed instead of the normal UI 200. Furthermore, the user may select which of the normal UI 200 and the simple UI 300 is displayed.

  The program further includes step S1010 which is executed after step S1000 and executes processing in accordance with the user's operation on the operation unit 120. FIG. 6 is a detailed flow of step S1010 in FIG. Referring to FIG. 6, this routine waits until the user inputs an operation instruction to operation unit 120, and when the operation instruction input is performed, the operation instruction input is accepted and the type of the operation instruction input is determined. Step S1100. Depending on the result of this determination, the control structure branches as shown in FIG.

  This routine further includes a step S1110 of performing setting processing of the function in response to receiving an instruction input (setting change) for setting the function on the displayed UI screen. When the process of step S1110 ends, this routine ends.

  This routine further switches the UI screen displayed on the touch panel display 122 to another UI screen in response to the reception of the input of the switching instruction for switching the UI screen (UI switching), step S1120 of step S1120 It is determined that the setting of the function has been performed in step S1130 and the step S1130, which are executed later and determine whether the function is set before switching the UI screen and branches the flow of control according to the determination result. And the step S1140 of holding the setting of the function and ending this routine. If it is determined in step S1130 that the function is not set, this routine also ends.

  This routine is further executed in step S1150 for executing the copy printing process in response to receipt of the copy start instruction input, and executed after step S1150 to determine whether copy printing has been completed, and copy printing And a step S1160 of waiting until the process ends. If it is determined in step S1160 that copy printing has ended, this routine ends. The routine further ends when it is determined in step S1100 that the operation instruction input by the user is an input of a transition instruction to the home screen (operation of the home key).

  Again referring to FIG. 5, this program is further executed after step S1010, and determines whether or not the input of the home screen transition instruction (the operation of the home key) is accepted, and the control is performed according to the determination result. Step S1020 of branching the flow is included. If it is determined in step S1020 that the input of the instruction to shift to the home screen has not been received, the control returns to step S1010 and stands by until the next operation instruction input by the user is performed.

  This program is further executed when it is determined in step S1020 that the input of a transition instruction to the home screen has been received, and is executed after step S1030 for transitioning the display screen of the touch panel display 122 to the home screen and after step S1030. , And reset the setting of the function to the default state (reset the setting), step S1040. When the process of step S1040 ends, this program ends.

[Operation]
The image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment operates as follows. In the following description, only the part related to the present invention in the operation of the image forming apparatus 100 will be described. The other operations are similar to those of the conventional image forming apparatus.

  It is assumed that the copy mode is selected from a plurality of operation modes by the user's operation on the home screen. The image forming apparatus 100 displays the normal UI 200 (see FIG. 2) on the touch panel display 122 as a copy mode UI screen (step S1000).

  When the “switch” key 260 of the normal UI 200 is operated by the user, the image forming apparatus 100 switches the UI screen displayed on the touch panel display 122 from the normal UI 200 to the simple UI 300 (see FIG. 4) (step S1120). Similarly, when the “switch” key 330 of the simple UI 300 is operated by the user, the image forming apparatus 100 switches the UI screen displayed on the touch panel display 122 from the simple UI 300 to the normal UI 200 (step S1120).

  Referring to FIG. 7, for example, it is assumed that the “setting B” key 222 is operated in the normal UI 200, and the function corresponding to the “setting B” key 222 is set (step S1110). Then, when the “switch” key 260 of the normal UI 200 is operated by the user, the image forming apparatus 100 switches the UI screen displayed on the touch panel display 122 from the normal UI 200 to the simple UI 300 (step S1120). The image forming apparatus 100 determines whether a function has been set before switching of the UI screen. Here, since the function corresponding to the “setting B” key 222 is set, the image forming apparatus 100 determines that the function setting has been made before the switching of the UI screen (YES in step S1130). If the image forming apparatus 100 determines that the function has been set before switching the UI screen, it holds the setting state of the function (step S1140). That is, when the “switch” key 260 is operated after the function corresponding to the “setting B” key 222 is set, the image forming apparatus 100 switches the UI screen from the normal UI 200 to the simple UI 300 while holding the setting. Similarly, even when the “switch” key 330 is operated after the function is set in the simple UI 300, the image forming apparatus 100 switches the UI screen from the simple UI 300 to the normal UI 200 while holding the setting. In FIG. 7, it is shown that the function is set by reverse display of the setting key.

  In the normal UI 200, many functions can be set as compared with the simple UI 300. Therefore, the UI screen may be switched to the simple UI 300 after a function (for example, a function corresponding to the “setting D” key 226) which can not be set in the simple UI 300 is set in the normal UI 200. In this embodiment, even in such a case, the UI screen can be switched to the simple UI 300 while maintaining the settings of the normal UI 200. That is, functions whose settings are omitted in the simple UI 300 are set as default, and when such functions are normally set in the UI 200, the default settings are changed when the simple UI 300 is switched.

  When accepting the copy start instruction input, the image forming apparatus 100 starts copy printing (step S1150). When a desired function is set by the operation of the setting key, the image forming apparatus 100 executes copy printing according to the setting. For example, when double-sided copying is set, the image forming apparatus 100 executes double-sided copy printing. When copy printing is completed (YES in step S1160), the state before copying is started. When the user operates the home key (YES in step S1020), the display screen of touch panel display 122 shifts to the home screen (step S1030). After shifting to the home screen, the function set in the copy mode is canceled (reset) (step S1040).

[Operation / effect]
As apparent from the above description, by using the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

  In the image forming apparatus 100, in response to reception of an instruction input by the user in the operation unit 120, the displayed UI screen is switched from one of the normal UI 200 and the simple UI 300 to the other. When switching the UI screen, it does not go through a screen or the like dedicated to switching (for example, a home screen or the like), so it is possible to reduce time and effort when switching. In addition, the UI screen can be switched at any timing. Therefore, even when the user does not know which UI screen to select, the UI screen can be easily switched, so that the UI screen suitable for the user can be easily selected.

  Setting is required because you do not have the necessary functions in the simple UI 300, and you want to switch the UI screen from the simple UI 300 to the normal UI 200, or you want to use the simple UI 300 because it is difficult to know which functions are necessary. Even in the middle of the switch of the UI screen may be required. In the present image forming apparatus 100, it is determined whether or not the function has been set before the switching of the UI screen. When the function is set, the setting is held without being cleared (cancelled) even on the UI screen after the switching. Therefore, there is no need to make settings and the like from the beginning on the UI screen after switching the display. As described above, the image forming apparatus 100 can switch the UI screen without requiring a complicated and time-consuming operation. In addition, there is no need to redo settings. Therefore, the usability of the user is improved.

Second Embodiment
The image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment is the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment in that when the function that can not be set by the simple UI is set, the set function can be confirmed by the simple UI. It is different from Otherwise, each image forming apparatus has the same configuration.

  When switching from the normal UI to the simple UI, the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment determines whether a function that can not be set by the simple UI is set. If it is determined that such a function is set, the image forming apparatus displays an icon indicating that on the simple UI.

  Referring to FIG. 8, in the present embodiment, a simple UI 400 is displayed instead of the simple UI 300 (see FIG. 4). The simple UI 400 has substantially the same configuration as the simple UI 300. However, if a function that can not be set in the simple UI 400 is set in the normal UI 200, the icon 410 is displayed on the simple UI 400 when switched to the simple UI 400. Referring to FIG. 9, when the icon 410 is operated by the user, a pop-up screen 420 is displayed, and in the pop-up screen 420, functions which can not be set by the simple UI 400 set by the normal UI 200 are displayed. FIG. 9 shows an example in which the function corresponding to the “setting G” key 234 in the normal UI 200 (see FIG. 3) and the function corresponding to the “setting K” key 242 are set.

  A more specific description will be given with reference to FIG. It is assumed that the “setting G” key 234 and the “setting K” key 242 are operated in the normal UI 200, and then the UI screen is switched to the simple UI 400. The simple UI 400 has no function corresponding to the “setting G” key 234 and the “setting K” key 242. When it is determined that the function that can not be set by the simple UI 400 is set, the image forming apparatus displays an icon 410 in a predetermined area of the simple UI 400. By operating this icon 410, the user can confirm the details of the set function.

  Thus, when switching from the normal UI 200 to the simple UI 400, even if the simple UI 400 does not have a function corresponding to the function set in the normal UI 200, the setting content (changed content) is displayed on the simple UI 400 By this, it is possible to avoid that settings different from the user's intention are applied. In addition, it is not necessary to switch the UI screen to the normal UI 200 to confirm the settings. This further improves the usability of the user.

Third Embodiment
The image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment is the second embodiment in that the setting of the function can be canceled in the simple UI when the function that can not be set by the simple UI is set. It differs from such an image forming apparatus. Otherwise, each image forming apparatus has the same configuration.

  Similar to the second embodiment, the image forming apparatus determines whether a function that can not be set by the simple UI is set when switching from the normal UI to the simple UI. Referring to FIG. 11, when it is determined that such a function is set, the image forming apparatus displays an icon 510 indicating that on the simple UI 500. When the icon 510 is operated by the user, a pop-up screen 520 is displayed, and in the pop-up screen 520, functions that can not be set by the simple UI 500, which are set by the normal UI 200, are displayed. In the present embodiment, the pop-up screen 520 displays a “reset” key 530 for canceling the setting of functions that can not be set with the simple UI 500, which are set with the normal UI 200. When the “Reset” key 530 is operated, the settings of functions that can not be set by the simple UI 500, which are set by the normal UI 200, are collectively canceled (reset).

  FIG. 11 shows an example in which the function corresponding to the “setting G” key 234 in the normal UI 200 (see FIG. 3) and the function corresponding to the “setting K” key 242 are set. When the “reset” key 530 is operated, the setting of the function corresponding to the “setting G” key 234 and the function corresponding to the “setting K” key 242 is cancelled. The functions other than the functions displayed in the pop-up screen 520 are not released by the operation of the “reset” key 530. The other configuration of the simple UI 500 is similar to the configuration of the simple UI 400 shown in FIG.

  Thus, by providing the “Reset” key 530 in the simple UI 500, it is not necessary to switch the UI screen to the normal UI 200 in order to cancel the setting. Therefore, the usability of the user is further improved.

Fourth Embodiment
The image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment is the second embodiment in that the setting of the function can be canceled in the simple UI when the function that can not be set by the simple UI is set. It differs from such an image forming apparatus. Otherwise, each image forming apparatus has the same configuration.

  Similar to the second embodiment, the image forming apparatus determines whether a function that can not be set by the simple UI is set when switching from the normal UI to the simple UI. Referring to FIG. 12, when it is determined that such a function is set, the image forming apparatus displays an icon 410 indicating that on the simple UI 600.

  The simple UI 600 includes a “reset” key 610 for canceling the setting of functions that can not be set by the simple UI 600, which are normally set by the UI 200. The “reset” key 610 is displayed in a predetermined area of the display screen of the simple UI 600. The image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment is different from the third embodiment in which a “reset” key 530 having the same function as the “reset” key 610 is displayed in the pop-up screen 520 in this respect. The other configuration of the simple UI 600 is similar to the configuration of the simple UI 400 shown in FIG.

  Note that the “reset” key 610 may be configured to always be displayed on the display screen of the simple UI 600 or may be configured to be displayed when the icon 410 is displayed.

Fifth Embodiment
The image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment is the first in that the setting of the function is held when the UI screen is switched only when the function that can be set in both the normal UI and the simple UI is set. This differs from the image forming apparatus 100 according to the embodiment. Otherwise, each image forming apparatus has the same configuration.

  The image forming apparatus determines whether a function (common function) that can be set by both the normal UI and the simple UI is set before switching the UI screen. When it is determined that the common function is set, the image forming apparatus holds the set state of the common function that has been set.

Software Configuration
In the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment, the program shown in FIG. 13 is executed instead of the program shown in FIG. The program of FIG. 13 includes step S2010 instead of step S1010 of FIG. The processes in step S1000 and steps S1020 to S1040 are the same as the processes in each step shown in FIG.

  FIG. 14 is a detailed flow of step S2010 in FIG. Referring to FIG. 14, this routine includes steps S2100 and S2110 in place of steps S1130 and S1140 of FIG. 6, respectively. The processes in steps S1100 to S1120, S1150, and S1160 are the same as the processes in the respective steps illustrated in FIG. The different parts will be described below.

  Referring to FIG. 14, this routine is executed after step S1120, and it is determined whether or not a common function has been set before switching of the UI screen, and the flow of control is branched according to the determination result. S2100 is executed when it is determined in step S2100 that the common function has been set, and the setting of the function is held, and step S2110 of ending this routine is included. This routine also ends when it is determined in step S2100 that the common function is not set.

[Operation / effect]
The image forming apparatus holds the setting of the function only when the function that can be set by both the normal UI and the simple UI is set when the UI screen is switched. When a function that can be set only on one UI screen (for example, a normal UI) is set, the setting of the function is canceled when the UI screen is switched. This also avoids the application of settings different from the user's intention, since only settings that can be confirmed in both the normal UI and the simple UI are retained.

(Modification)
In the above embodiment, an example in which the present invention is applied to a multifunction peripheral (MFP) which is an example of an image forming apparatus is shown, but the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. The image forming apparatus may be an apparatus other than a multifunction peripheral. For example, an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine or a printer may be used. Although the operation unit is provided in the image forming apparatus in the above embodiment, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. The operation unit may be included in another electronic device. Other electronic devices include, for example, a scanner device.

  Although the above embodiment shows an example of alternately switching between two UI screens of the normal UI and the simple UI, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, three or more UI screens may be switched to each other.

  In the above embodiment, an example is shown in which the UI screen is switched when the selected operation mode is the copy mode, but switching of the UI screen can be performed in each operation mode. In some operation modes, the UI screen may not be switched.

  Although the above embodiment shows an example in which the "switch" key for switching the UI screen is displayed as a software key on each UI screen, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, the "switch" key may be a hardware key. Further, the UI screen may be switched by a gesture operation (for example, a flick operation or the like) on the touch panel display, or may be switched by voice. When the "switch" key is a software key, the "switch" key of each UI screen may be configured to be displayed or activated when the function is set.

  Although the above embodiment shows an example of collectively canceling the setting of functions which can not be set by the simple UI, which are set by the normal UI, by the operation of the “reset” key 530 or the “reset” key 610. Is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, in the pop-up screen, functions that can not be set in the simple UI, which are normally set in the UI, are displayed as operable software keys, and individually displayed in the pop-up screen by operating the software keys of the respective functions. It may be configured to cancel the specified function.

  Although the above embodiment shows an operation unit including a touch panel display, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. The operation unit may be configured to include a display (display panel) other than the touch panel display. For example, a hardware key or the like may be used to input an instruction for information displayed on the display.

  The embodiment disclosed this time is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment. The scope of the present invention is defined by each claim of the claims in consideration of the description of the detailed description of the invention, and all the changes within the meaning and range equivalent to the words and phrases described therein Including.

100 image forming apparatus 110 control unit 120 operation unit 122 touch panel display 124 display panel 126 touch panel 130 document reading unit 140 image processing unit 150 image forming unit 160 paper feeding unit 170 network I / F
180 FAX Communication Unit 200 Normal UI
260, 330 "switch" key 300, 400, 500, 600 easy UI
410, 510 Icon 420, 520 pop-up screen 530, 610 "Reset" key

Claims (10)

An operating device provided to a control target device,
A display unit for displaying information related to processing performed by the control target device;
Input receiving means for receiving an operation instruction input for the information displayed on the display means;
The first operation screen including a plurality of items settable by the operation instruction input accepted by the input accepting unit, or the second operation screen including a partial item of the plurality of items is displayed. Display control means for controlling the display means;
In response to reception of an instruction input by the user, the display control means is controlled to display the operation screen displayed on the display means as one of the first operation screen or the second operation screen. Display switching means for switching from the operation screen to the other operation screen,
The display control means controls the display means to display , on the first operation screen and the second operation screen, a reset key for canceling the setting by the operation instruction input accepted by the input acceptance means . Operating device. The display control means is different from the start key for receiving the start of execution of the control target device displayed on the second operation screen from the start key for receiving the start of execution of the control target device on the first operation screen The operating device according to claim 1, wherein the display means is controlled to display in an aspect. The display means displays, on the second operation screen, a start key for receiving an operation instruction input for starting execution of the control target device, and a character string indicating the start of execution superimposed on the start key. When the second operation screen is displayed, the start key of the second operation screen is displayed larger than the start key for receiving the operation instruction input for starting the execution of the control target device on the first operation screen,
The display control means controls the display of the display means to delete the character string indicating the start of execution in response to the display being switched from the second operation screen to the first operation screen. The operating device according to claim 1 . A determination unit for determining whether there is an item set before the display is switched by the display switching unit;
Claim further comprising setting holding means for holding the setting state of the set item on the operation screen after the display is switched by the display switching means according to the determination result of the determination means. The operating device in any one of 1-3 . The determination means includes means for determining whether or not an item not included in the second operation screen is set in the first operation screen, among the plurality of items.
The display control means, when the display is switched from the first operation screen to the second operation screen, the second of the plurality of items according to the determination result of the means for determining. 5. The operating device according to claim 4 , further comprising: means for controlling the display means to display the second operation screen in a mode indicating that items not included in the operation screen are set. 6. The apparatus according to claim 5 , further comprising: a release unit configured to release only setting of an item not included in the second operation screen among the plurality of items when the second operation screen is displayed. Control device. The first operation screen and the second operation screen each include an operation item operated by the user when switching the display of the operation screen,
The display switching means controls the display control means in response to the user's operation of the operation item by the user, and the operation screen displayed on the display means is the first operation screen and the operation screen. The operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 , further comprising means for switching from one operation screen of the second operation screen to the other operation screen. The determination means includes means for determining whether an item common to the first operation screen and the second operation screen has been set before the display is switched by the display switching means.
The setting holding unit holds the setting state of the common item set on the operation screen after the display is switched by the display switching unit according to the determination result of the determination unit. The operating device according to claim 4 , comprising: The electronic device containing the operating device in any one of Claims 1-8 . An image forming apparatus comprising the operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 8 .

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