JP7324669B2 - Electronic device, electronic device control program and control method - Google Patents

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to an electronic device, a control program for an electronic device, and a control method, and in particular, to charge a fee according to a user's operation and to settle the fee by one of a plurality of payment methods including cash payment. electronic device, control program and control method for the electronic device.

As an electronic device of this type, for example, there is a self-printing device disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2002-200010. According to this self-printing device, a customer, who is a user, can print a photograph based on image data recorded in a medium such as a compact flash (registered trademark). Then, at the stage of proceeding to the payment of the fee (consideration) required for photo printing, a payment method list screen is displayed on the display. On this settlement method list screen, the user can arbitrarily select which of a plurality of settlement methods including cash settlement is to be used for settlement. The multiple payment methods referred to here include payment methods using payment cards such as credit cards and prepaid cards, in addition to cash payments. In addition, the user can also select composite payment, in which payment is made by combining multiple types of payment methods.

JP-A-2008-33757

By the way, although it is not specified in Patent Document 1, according to the self-printing device disclosed in Patent Document 1, regardless of what settlement method the user desires, the settlement method list screen is always displayed. displayed on the display. In other words, the user always performs an operation to select a desired payment method on the payment method list screen. From the viewpoint of operability, it is preferable that a so-called selection screen for selecting a settlement method, such as the settlement method list screen, be displayed only when necessary, for example.

Therefore, the present invention provides a novel electronic device and an electronic device that further improve operability by displaying a selection screen for selecting a payment method only when it is necessary to display the selection screen. It aims at providing a control program and a control method.

To achieve this object, the present invention includes a first invention relating to an electronic device, a second invention relating to a control program for an electronic device, and a third invention relating to a control method for an electronic device.

Among these, a first invention relating to an electronic device comprises cash accepting means, display means, and control means. The electronic device referred to here can charge a fee according to the user's operation and can settle the fee by any one of a plurality of payment methods including cash payment. In addition, the cash receiving means receives the input of cash. The display means has a display surface. Then, the control means displays on the display surface of the display means a selection screen for selecting which one of the plurality of payment methods is to be used for payment of the charge, based on the amount of cash received by the cash reception means. , or hidden. Further, when the selection screen is hidden, the control means displays a cash settlement screen for cash settlement on the display surface of the display means. Specifically, the control means displays the selection screen when the amount of cash input is not zero at the time when payment of the fee is required, but the amount of input is insufficient for the amount required for payment.

Further , for example, the control means displays the selection screen even when the amount of cash inserted is zero at the time when payment of the fee is required, that is, when the cash has not been inserted.

On the other hand , the control means hides the selection screen and displays the cash payment screen when the amount of cash input at the time when payment of the charge is required is sufficient for the amount required for the payment.

Furthermore , even if the amount of cash input at the time when payment of fees is required is not zero, but the amount of input is insufficient for the amount required for settlement, the control means When the balance from settlement is included , the selection screen is hidden and the cash settlement screen is displayed.

In addition , even if the amount of cash input at the time when payment of the fee is required is not zero, but the amount of cash input is insufficient for the amount required for payment, the control means does not allow the user to adjust the amount of input cash. Even when the input after the start of the operation is included , the selection screen is hidden and the cash settlement screen is displayed.

In addition, in the present first invention, state switching means may be further provided. This state switching means changes the payment of the fee from the state where the cash payment screen is displayed on the display surface of the display means to the display surface of the display means by a specified method other than cash payment among the plurality of payment methods described above. Switch to the state where the specific payment screen for making is displayed.

In addition, the state switching means can switch the state in which the specific settlement screen is displayed on the display surface of the display means to the state in which the cash settlement screen is displayed on the display surface of the display means. preferable.

The specific method referred to here is, for example, electronic money settlement using electronic money.

An example of such an electronic apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention is an image forming apparatus that forms an image on an image recording medium.

A control program for an electronic device according to a second aspect of the present invention causes a computer of the electronic device to execute a cash acceptance procedure and a control procedure. The electronic device referred to here can charge a fee according to the user's operation and can settle the fee by any one of a plurality of payment methods including cash payment. In addition, the electronic device comprises display means having a display surface. In addition, the cash accepting means accepts the input of cash. In the control procedure, a selection screen is displayed on the display screen of the display means for selecting which of the plurality of payment methods is to be used for payment, based on the amount of cash received in the cash reception procedure. or hide it. Furthermore, in the control procedure, when the selection screen is hidden, a cash payment screen for cash payment is displayed on the display surface of the display means. Specifically, in the control procedure, the selection screen is displayed when the amount of cash input is not zero at the time when payment of fees is required, but the amount of input is insufficient for the amount required for payment. .

A control method for an electronic device according to a third aspect of the present invention includes a cash receiving step and a control step. The electronic device referred to here can charge a fee according to the user's operation and can settle the fee by any one of a plurality of payment methods including cash payment. In addition, the electronic device comprises display means having a display surface. Then, in the cash receiving step, cash is received. Then, in the control step, a selection screen is displayed on the display surface of the display means for selecting which of the plurality of payment methods is to be used for payment based on the amount of cash received in the cash reception step. or hide it. Further, in the control step, when the selection screen is hidden, a cash payment screen for cash payment is displayed on the display surface of the display means. Specifically, in the control step, the selection screen is displayed when the amount of cash input is not zero at the time when payment of the fee is required, but the amount of input is insufficient for the amount required for payment. .

According to the present invention, the selection screen is displayed only when it is necessary to display the selection screen for selecting the settlement method. When the selection screen is hidden, a cash payment screen for cash payment is displayed. As a result, the operability of the electronic device is further improved, and particularly for users who desire cash settlement, the operability is further improved.

FIG. 1 is an external view of a multi-copier according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the multi-copier according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the home screen in the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a payment method selection screen in the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a cash settlement screen when the input amount is insufficient in the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a cash settlement screen when the input amount is sufficient in the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a copy end screen in the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of an electronic money settlement screen in the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a deposit return guide screen in the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the relationship between the user's operation start point, the point at which payment is required, and the period during which cash can be inserted, according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a memory map conceptually showing the configuration within the RAM of the main memory in the first embodiment. FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing the flow of part of the copy management task in the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the flow of another portion of the copy management task in the first embodiment. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the flow of still another portion of the copy management task in the first embodiment. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the flow of still another portion of the copy management task in the first embodiment. FIG. 16 is a flow chart showing the flow of the rest of the copy management task in the first embodiment. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of an electronic money settlement screen in the second embodiment. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a cash settlement screen when the input amount is insufficient in the second embodiment. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a cash settlement screen when the input amount is sufficient in the second embodiment. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a deposit return guidance screen in the second embodiment. FIG. 21 is a flow chart showing the flow of part of the copy management task in the second embodiment. FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the flow of another portion of the copy management task in the second embodiment. FIG. 23 is a flow chart showing the flow of the rest of the copy management task in the second embodiment.

[First embodiment]
A first embodiment of the present invention will be described by taking the multi-copier 10 shown in FIG. 1 as an example.

The multi-copier 10 according to the first embodiment is installed in convenience stores, supermarkets, etc., on the premise that it will be used by an unspecified number of people. This multi-copier 10 has multiple functions such as a copy function, a printer function, an image scanner function, and a facsimile function. The multi-copier 10 having these functions can provide various services such as copy service, print service, facsimile service, scan service, and administrative service.

For example, in a copy service, a copy of a document (not shown) can be made. Specifically, an image of the document is read, and the read image is formed on a sheet of paper as an image recording medium (not shown). print). The paper referred to here includes plain paper, glossy paper, photo paper, and the like. A person who receives a copy service, that is, a user who uses the multi-copier 10 can select any paper from among these.

The print service includes a PDF (Portable Document Format) print service, a photo print service, a network print service, and the like.

In the PDF print service, a PDF file stored in a medium as an external storage medium (not shown) can be printed, and more specifically, an image based on the PDF file can be formed on the aforementioned paper. The media referred to here include semiconductor media such as USB (Universal Serial Bus) memories and SD (Secure Digital) memory cards, and disk media such as CDs (Compact Discs) and DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs). Further, in the PDF print service, it is also possible to transfer a PDF file stored in a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet to the multi-copier 10 via a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) and print it. Furthermore, if the portable device has an infrared communication function, it is possible to transfer the PDF file from the portable device to the multi-copier 10 and print it. In other words, in the PDF print service, it is also possible to use the portable device as a supply source (source) of PDF files.

In the photo print service, it is possible to print an image file in a predetermined format stored in the above-mentioned media, and in particular, print with high quality. Photo paper is generally selected as the paper for printing in this photo print service, but paper other than the photo paper, such as plain paper and glossy paper, may be selected. Also, in this photo print service, mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets can be used as supply sources of image files.

In the network print service, it is possible to print files registered in advance on a dedicated website. Files that can be registered on the dedicated website referred to here include PDF files, image files in a predetermined format, document files in a predetermined format, spreadsheet files in a predetermined format, presentation files in a predetermined format, and the like.

In the facsimile service, facsimile transmission can be performed. More specifically, the image of a document can be read, the read image can be digitized, and transmitted to an arbitrary facsimile device as a partner device (not shown). In the facsimile service, facsimiles can also be received via a relay center (not shown), that is, electronic images (image data) received via the relay center can be printed.

In the scan service, the image of the document can be read, and the read image can be digitized and stored in the aforementioned external storage medium, particularly the USB memory.

As for administrative services, it is possible to receive the issuance of a predetermined public certificate such as a copy of a resident's card or a seal registration certificate. In order to receive this administrative service, a basic resident register card or a personal number card as a card-type storage medium (not shown) is required. Public certificates issued by this administrative service are provided in a state of being printed on plain paper.

Other services include, for example, a content print service. In this content print service, various content such as bromides and musical scores provided by content providers accessible by the multi-copier 10 can be printed.

In order to provide such various services, the multi-copier 10 includes a multifunction peripheral (MFP) 20 as a main device and an application box 30 as an auxiliary device. In the following description, the vertical direction will be defined with reference to the state in which the multi-copier 10 is installed for use as shown in FIG. 1 is defined as the front side of the multi-copier 10, the front-rear direction of the multi-copier 10 is defined. Furthermore, it defines the horizontal direction of the multi-copier 10 when viewed from the front side of the multi-copier 10 . A user usually stands in front of the multi-copier 10 to perform operations.

The multifunction machine 20 in the multi-copy machine 10 includes an image reading section 202, an image forming section 204, a paper feeding section 206, a paper discharge tray 208, an operation display section 210, and the like.

The image reading unit 202 is provided in the upper part of the multifunction machine 20 . The image reading unit 202 is an example of image reading means. That is, the image reading unit 202 performs image reading processing of reading the image of the document and outputting two-dimensional image data corresponding to the image. Therefore, the image reading unit 202 has a document platen (not shown) on which a document is placed. This platen is made of a transparent material such as glass. In addition, above the document platen, a document pressing cover 202a for pressing the document placed on the document platen is attached so as to be openable and closable via a supporting member such as a hinge. An image reading unit (not shown) including a light source, a mirror, an imaging lens, a line sensor, and the like, and a drive mechanism for moving the image reading position of the image reading unit are provided below the document platen. Note that the document holding cover 202a may be provided with an automatic document feeder (ADF) that automatically feeds sheet-like documents one by one to an image reading position by an image reading unit.

The image forming section 204 is provided below the image reading section 202 . The image forming section 204 is an example of image forming means. That is, the image forming unit 204 performs image forming processing for forming an image based on appropriate image data on a sheet supplied from the paper feeding unit 206 . This image forming process is performed, for example, by a known electrophotographic method. Therefore, the image forming unit 204 includes a photosensitive drum, a charging device, an exposure device, a developing device, a transfer device, a fixing device, and the like (not shown). Image data provided for image forming processing by the image forming unit 204 includes image data output from the image reading unit 202, image data included in the above-mentioned PDF file, image data obtained by facsimile reception, and the like. . Note that the image forming unit 204 is not limited to the electrophotographic method, and may perform image forming processing by, for example, an inkjet method.

A paper feeding unit 206 is provided below the image forming unit 204 . The paper feeding unit 206 is an example of paper feeding means. That is, the paper feeding unit 206 supplies paper to the image forming unit 204 as described above, and more precisely, supplies the paper selected by the user to the image forming unit 204 one by one. Therefore, the paper feed unit 206 has a plurality of paper feed cassettes 206a, 206a, . Appropriate sheets are stored in each of the paper feed cassettes 206a, 206a, . Then, the paper feeding unit 206 supplies the paper one by one to the image forming unit 204 from the paper feeding cassette 206a containing the paper selected by the user as the paper feeding source.

The paper discharge tray 208 is provided between the image reading unit 202 and the image forming unit 204 , that is, a tray with an internal paper discharge structure provided inside the housing of the multifunction machine 20 . Then, the paper on which the image forming process by the image forming unit 204 has been performed, that is, the so-called printed matter is discharged to the paper discharge tray 208 . Note that the paper discharge tray 208 may be a tray having an out-of-body paper discharge structure provided outside the housing of the multifunction device 20 .

The operation display unit 210 is provided on the upper part of the multifunction device 20, for example, on the front side of the image reading unit 202 (the housing of the image reading unit 202). The operation display unit 210 has a display 210a as an example of display means. The operation display unit 210 is provided so that the display surface of the display 210a faces the front and obliquely upward of the MFP 20, that is, the display surface of the display 210a faces the user. The orientation (elevation angle) of the display surface of the display 210a can be arbitrarily changed manually within a certain range.

On the other hand, the application box 30 is provided in the vicinity of the multi-function device 20, for example, adjacent to the left side of the multi-function device 20. As shown in FIG. The application box 30 includes an external storage medium communication unit 302, a coin slot 304a, a bill slot 304b, an inserted amount display part 304c, a return button 304d, a coin return slot 304e, an IC (Integrated Circuit) card reader 306a, and a photo ejector. It has an exit 308a, a paper piece exit 310a, and the like.

The external storage medium communication unit 302 is provided above the application box 30 . The external storage medium communication unit 302 is an example of external storage medium communication means. That is, the external storage medium communication unit 302 is in charge of two-way communication with the media described above. For this reason, although detailed illustration is omitted, the external storage medium communication section 302 has a mounting section to which each medium can be mounted. In addition, the external storage medium communication unit 302 has an infrared communication unit for performing two-way communication using the infrared communication function with the above-described portable device having the infrared communication function. In FIG. 1, the external storage medium communication unit 302 is closed with a cover (that is, the mounting unit and the infrared communication unit are closed so as not to be seen from the outside).

The coin slot 304 a is provided on the upper portion of the application box 30 , particularly on the front side of the external storage medium communication section 302 . The coin slot 304a is an example of cash receiving means. That is, the coin slot 304a accepts the insertion of cash, particularly coins, when the payment for the use of the multi-copier 10 is made in cash. The coin slot 304a constitutes a money processing unit 304, which will be described later.

The banknote insertion slot 304b is provided at an appropriate position on the front side of the application box 30, for example, at an appropriate position near the center of the side in the height direction. The banknote insertion slot 304b is also an example of cash receiving means, and particularly receives the input (insertion) of banknotes. This banknote insertion slot 304b also constitutes a money processing unit 304, which will be described later.

Inserted amount display portion 304c is provided in the upper portion of application box 30, for example, on the right lateral side of coin slot 304a. This input amount display section 304c displays the amount of cash input accepted by the coin input slot 304a and the banknote insertion slot 304b, and strictly speaking, it is valid at the present time (that is, it can be used for payment of fees). ) displays the input amount. This inserted amount display unit 304c also constitutes a money processing unit 304, which will be described later.

The return button 304d is provided on the upper portion of the application box 30, for example, on the left lateral side of the coin slot 304a. This return button 304d is an operator that is operated (depressed) when a user desires to return cash, especially change, corresponding to the currently valid amount of money inserted. This return button 304d also constitutes the money processing unit 304, which will be described later.

The coin return port 304e is provided at an appropriate position on the front side of the application box 30, for example, at an appropriate position below the banknote insertion port 304b. The coin return port 304e is a return port for cash, particularly coins, when cash is returned by operating the return button 304d. In addition, when the banknote is returned, the banknote is returned from the banknote insertion slot 304b. The coin return port 304e also constitutes the money processing unit 304. As shown in FIG.

The IC card reader 306a is provided above the application box 30, for example, on the right side of the inserted amount display section 304c. Although it is not clear from FIG. 1, the IC card reader 306a has a shape suitable for placing (set) a non-contact type IC card such as an electronic money card (not shown). sunken in This IC card reader 306a constitutes a short-range communication unit 306, which will be described later. That is, when an IC card is placed on the IC card reader 306a, the short-range communication unit 306 complies with a short-range wireless communication standard such as ISO/IEC18092 (so-called NFC: Near Field Communication) with the IC card. Perform short-range wireless communication. The IC card referred to here includes the Basic Resident Register card and personal number card described above.

The photo ejection port 308a is provided at an appropriate position on the front side of the application box 30, for example, at an appropriate position below the coin return port 304e. This photo ejection port 308a is an ejection port for ejecting a photo as a result of the photo print service described above, and is connected to a paper ejection unit of the photo printer 308, which will be described later.

The paper piece discharge port 310a is provided at an appropriate position on the front side of the application box 30, for example, at an appropriate position above the banknote insertion port 304b. This paper piece ejection port 310a is an ejection port for ejecting paper pieces such as receipts, and is connected to a paper ejection section of a paper piece printer 310, which will be described later.

Further, referring to FIG. 2, the electrical configuration of the multi-copier 10 will be described. The control unit 102 is an example of main control means that controls the entire multi-copier 10 . Therefore, the control unit 102 is connected to the image reading unit 202 , the image forming unit 204 , the paper feeding unit 206 and the operation display unit 210 via the bus 110 . In addition, the control unit 102 is connected to an external storage medium communication unit 302 , a money processing unit 304 , a short-range communication unit 306 , a photo printer 308 and a slip printer 310 via a bus 110 . Further, control unit 102 is connected to auxiliary storage unit 104 and external communication unit 106 via bus 110 .

The control unit 102 has a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 102a as control execution means. In addition, the control unit 102 has a main storage unit 102b as main storage means that can be directly accessed by the CPU 102a. The main storage unit 102b includes, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory) (not shown). The ROM stores a control program (firmware) for controlling the operation of the CPU 102a. The RAM constitutes a working area and a buffer area when the CPU 102a executes processing based on the control program.

The auxiliary storage unit 104 is an example of auxiliary storage means including a hard disk drive (not shown). Various data are stored in the auxiliary storage unit 104 under the control of the CPU 102a. Auxiliary storage unit 104 may include rewritable nonvolatile memory such as flash memory.

The external communication unit 106 is an example of communication means that performs two-way communication with an external device (not shown). Therefore, the external communication unit 106 is connected to each external device via a communication network (not shown). The external devices referred to here include dedicated website servers for the above-mentioned network print service, partner devices for fax services, various servers including public personal authentication servers for administrative services, and settlement for electronic money settlement, which will be described later. There are servers, etc. Also, the communication network referred to here includes a LAN (Local Area Network), the Internet, a public switched telephone network, and the like. This communication network may include radio paths as part thereof.

Note that the control unit 102 , the auxiliary storage unit 104 and the external communication unit 106 are provided in the multifunction device 20 , for example, but some or all of them may be provided in the application box 30 . Also, the controller 102 may be provided in each of the multi-function device 20 and the application box 30, that is, two controllers may be provided. In this case, one of these two control units is the main (master) and the other is the sub (slave), and they cooperate with each other to control the entire multi-copier 10 .

The image reading unit 202, the image forming unit 204, the paper feeding unit 206, and the operation display unit 210 are as described above. It has a touch panel 210b. The touch panel 210b is provided so as to overlap the display surface of the display 210a, more specifically, the rectangular display surface. Thus, a display 210a with a touch panel 210b is configured. The display 210a is, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), but is not limited to this, and may be an organic electroluminescence (EL) display or the like. The touch panel 210b is, for example, a capacitive panel, but is not limited to this, and may be a panel of another type such as an electromagnetic induction type, a resistive film type, an infrared type, or the like. Further, the operation display unit 210 has appropriate light emitting means such as a light emitting diode (LED) (not shown). In addition, the operation display unit 210 has appropriate hardware switch means such as a push button switch (not shown).

The external storage medium communication unit 302 has a mounting section as described above, and performs two-way communication with the medium mounted on the mounting section. The external storage medium communication unit 302 also has an infrared communication unit, and can perform two-way communication with a portable device having an infrared communication function using the infrared communication function.

The money processing unit 304 has a coin slot 304a, a banknote slot 304b, an inserted amount display part 304c, a return button 304d, and a coin return slot 304e as described above. Then, the money processing unit 304 calculates the amount of cash received by the coin slot 304a and the banknote slot 304b, and displays the calculation result, strictly speaking, the currently effective amount of the inserted cash, on the inserted amount display unit. 304c. After that, when the multi-copier 10 is used, that is, when some service is provided by the multi-copier 10, the money processing unit 304 subtracts the amount of the fee according to the content of the service from the input amount. Subtract. Thereby, cash settlement is performed. Furthermore, the money processing unit 304 displays the amount of money remaining after cash settlement, that is, the balance, on the input amount display unit 304c. When the return button 304d is operated with this balance remaining, the money processing unit 304 returns cash corresponding to the balance, that is, change. When coins are included in the change, the coins are returned from the coin return port 304e. Also, when the change includes banknotes, the banknotes are returned from the banknote insertion slot 304b. If the return button 304d is operated without providing any service by the multi-copier 10 after the cash has been inserted, the cash that has been inserted is returned as it is.

The near field communication unit 306 has the IC card reading unit 306a as described above. Then, when an IC card is placed on the IC card reader 306a, the short-range communication unit 306 performs short-range wireless communication with the IC card. In particular, when the IC card is a predetermined electronic money card, electronic money settlement is performed by the electronic money card. In this case, predetermined processing for the electronic money settlement is performed with the aforementioned settlement server. The predetermined electronic money card referred to here is a pre-determined (in other words, partner ) There are multiple types.

Photographic printer 308 is, for example, a dye-sublimation printer or an inkjet printer, and serves to provide the aforementioned photoprinting service. That is, the photo printer 308 prints an image file in a predetermined format stored in the medium with high quality, and the photo as the printed matter (result) is sent to a paper discharge unit (not shown) of the photo printer 308. , and eventually to the photo ejection port 308a. As photo papers to be printed by the photo printer 308, for example, two types of L size and 2 L size are prepared. These two types of photo paper are stored in a paper storage unit (not shown) of the photo printer 308 .

Paper slip printer 310 is, for example, a thermal (thermal) printer or a dot impact printer, and issues paper slips such as receipts. That is, the slip printer 310 prints appropriate character strings, images, and the like on roll paper (not shown), and issues the printed slips. This piece of paper is ejected from a paper ejection section (not shown) of the paper piece printer 310, and is eventually ejected from the paper piece ejection port 310a.

Now, according to the multi-copier 10 of the first embodiment, various services can be provided as described above. Then, the user can arbitrarily select which of a plurality of settlement methods, ie, cash settlement or electronic money settlement, is to be used for settlement (payment) of charges according to each service.

For example, it is now assumed that the multi-copier 10 is in a so-called standby state, waiting for some kind of operation without being operated for a certain period of time. In this standby state, the display 210a of the multi-copier 10 shows a home screen (also called a "menu screen" or "portal screen") as a basic operation screen as shown in FIG. .) 400 is displayed.

This home screen 400 includes a plurality of buttons 402, for example six buttons 402 as operators for selecting each of the aforementioned copy service, print service, facsimile service, scan service, administrative service, and other services. 404, 406, 408, 410 and 412 are arranged accordingly. When any one of the buttons 402, 404, 406, 408, 410 and 412 on the home screen 400 is operated, the multi-copier 10 Transition to a state to provide the corresponding service. For example, when the button 402 for selecting a copy service is operated, the multi-copier 10 transitions to a state for providing the copy service, so to speak, entering a copy service mode.

In the copy service mode, for example, a setting screen (not shown) for making settings necessary for copying is displayed on the display 210a. According to this setting screen, the user makes appropriate settings and places a document on the document platen. When the necessary settings for copying are completed, the fee corresponding to the contents of the settings is fixed. Then, the determined fee is charged to the user, and a payment method selection screen 500 as shown in FIG. 4, for example, is displayed on the display 210a.

In the upper part of the settlement method selection screen 500, a relatively large oblong substantially rectangular message display area 502 is arranged. In this message display area 502, a suitable relatively large character string 502a representing the title of the payment method selection screen 500, for example prompting selection of a payment method, is arranged. Further, below the message display area 502 , more specifically, at a leftward position, a laterally long, substantially rectangular amount display area 504 smaller than the message display area 502 is arranged. In this amount display area 504, an appropriate character string 504a representing the fee required for copying is arranged. Note that the character string 504a in FIG. 4 indicates that the charge required for copying is 100 yen. Further, below the amount display area 504, there are a cash payment selection button 506, which is an operator for selecting cash payment, and an electronic money payment selection button 508, which is an operator for selecting electronic money payment. arranged side by side. In addition, an end button 510 is arranged to the right of the rows of the cash payment selection button 506 and the electronic money payment selection button 508 , in other words, in the lower right portion of the payment method selection screen 500 . This end button 510 is an operator for the user to voluntarily end (stop) receiving the provision of the copy service, in other words, for exiting the copy service mode.

It is assumed that, for example, the cash payment selection button 506 is operated on the payment method selection screen 500 shown in FIG. Then, instead of the payment method selection screen 500, a cash payment screen 600 as shown in FIG. 5 is displayed on the display 210a.

A message display area 602 similar to that in the payment method selection screen 500 is arranged above the cash payment screen 600 . In the message display area 602, a suitable relatively large character string 602a representing the title of the cash payment screen 600, for example, indicating that cash payment is about to be made, is arranged. In addition, an appropriate character string 602b representing a supplementary message is arranged below the character string 602a. This string 602b is slightly smaller than the string 602a. Note that the message represented by the character string 602b in FIG. 5 indicates that the current amount of cash input is insufficient for the fee, and that the user is encouraged to insert cash in accordance with the amount of the shortage. ,included. In addition, below the message display area 602, more precisely, at the left side, an amount display similar to that on the payment method selection screen 500, strictly speaking, slightly larger than the amount display area 504 on the payment method selection screen 500, is displayed. A region 604 is provided. In this amount display area 604, an appropriate character string 604a representing the charge, an appropriate character string 604b representing the current amount of cash input, and the shortfall of the input amount for the charge (=charge-input amount) are displayed. Appropriate character strings 604c to represent are arranged, for example, in tandem. Incidentally, the character string 604a in FIG. 5 indicates that the charge is 100 yen, the character string 604b indicates that the current amount of cash input is 0 yen (zero), and the character string 604c indicates that the amount is insufficient. Indicates that the amount is 100 yen. In addition, an end button 610 similar to that on the payment method selection screen 500 is arranged at the lower right portion of the cash payment screen 600 .

It is assumed that cash input corresponding to the shortfall (100 yen), for example, is accepted while the cash settlement screen 600 shown in FIG. 5 is being displayed. Then, the cash settlement screen 600 changes to a mode as shown in FIG.

That is, as shown in FIG. 6, the character string 604c representing the insufficient amount disappears from the amount display area 604. FIG. At the same time, the amount of cash input represented by the character string 604b changes to the actual amount (100 yen) at the present time. Further, below the amount display area 604, a copy start button 620, which is an operator for starting copying, is arranged. In addition, the character string 602b in the message display area 602 is changed to prompt the copy start button 620 to be operated. In short, the multi-copier 10 is ready to start copying.

It is assumed that, for example, copy start button 620 is operated on cash settlement screen 600 shown in FIG. Then, the amount of the fee is deducted from the input amount, that is, the cash settlement is performed. Copying is then started. Although illustration is omitted, during execution of copying, an appropriate copy execution message screen indicating that the copying is being executed is displayed on the display 210a instead of the cash settlement screen 600. FIG. Then, when the copy is completed, a copy end screen 700 as shown in FIG. 7 is displayed on the display 210a instead of the copy execution message screen.

A message display area 702 similar to that in the payment method selection screen 500 is arranged in the upper part of the copy end screen 700 . Then, in the message display area 702, a suitable relatively large character string 702a representing the title of the copy end screen 700, for example, indicating that copying has been completed, is arranged. In addition, below the character string 702a, an appropriate character string 702b is arranged as a supplementary message asking the user whether to continue copying. Further, an amount display area 704 similar to that in the payment method selection screen 500 is arranged below the message display area 702, more specifically, at a leftward position. In this amount display area 704, an appropriate character string 704a representing the current amount of cash input is arranged. Note that the character string 704a in FIG. 7 indicates that the current amount of cash input, in other words, the balance of the input amount is 0 yen. Furthermore, below the amount display area 704, a continue copying button 720, which is an operator for continuing copying, is arranged. In addition, an end button 710 similar to that on the payment method selection screen 500 is arranged at the lower right portion of the copy end screen 700 .

When, for example, button 720 to continue copying is operated on copy end screen 700 shown in FIG. 7, instead of copy end screen 700, the aforementioned setting screen is displayed on display 210a. That is, the multi-copier 10 returns to the (initial) state immediately after entering the copy service mode. Further, when the end button 710 on the copy end screen 700 is operated, instead of the copy end screen 700, an end message screen (not shown) is displayed on the display 210a. After this end message screen is displayed for a certain period of time (for example, several seconds), home screen 400 is displayed on display 210a instead of the end message screen. As a result, the multi-copier 10 exits the copy service mode and returns to the standby state described above. Note that the end message screen may include an appropriate character string, image, or the like, for example, to call attention to misplacement of articles such as manuscripts.

On the other hand, on the payment method selection screen 500 shown in FIG. 4, for example, the electronic money payment selection button 508 is operated. Then, instead of the payment method selection screen 500, an electronic money payment screen 800 as shown in FIG. 8 is displayed on the display 210a.

At the top of the electronic money settlement screen 800, a message display area 802 similar to that in the settlement method selection screen 500 is arranged. In this message display area 802, a suitable relatively large character string 802a representing the title of the electronic money payment screen 800, for example, indicating that electronic money payment is about to be made is arranged. In addition, below the character string 802a, an appropriate character string 802b is arranged as a supplementary message to prompt the user to place the electronic money card on the IC card reader 306a. Further, below the message display area 802, more specifically, at the left side, an amount display area 804 similar to that in the payment method selection screen 500 is arranged. An appropriate character string 804a representing the charge is arranged in the amount display area 804. FIG. Note that the character string 804a in FIG. 8 indicates that the fee is 100 yen. In addition, an end button 810 similar to that on the payment method selection screen 500 is arranged at the lower right portion of the electronic money payment screen 800 .

Suppose, for example, that a predetermined electronic money card is placed on the IC card reader 306a while the electronic money settlement screen 800 shown in FIG. 8 is being displayed. Then, short-range wireless communication is performed between the electronic money card and the short-range communication unit 306 via the IC card reading unit 306a. read by Then, based on the read electronic money information, two-way communication is performed with the settlement server described above, and electronic money settlement is performed after predetermined processing such as authentication processing. When this electronic money settlement is completed, copying is started. That is, when electronic money payment is selected, copying is automatically started immediately after the electronic money payment is completed. After this, the process is the same as in the case of cash settlement.

For example, when the payment method selection screen 500 is displayed, the amount of cash inserted is not 0 yen, but some cash has been inserted. Assume that the money settlement selection button 508 is operated. Then, instead of the payment method selection screen 500, a deposit return guidance screen 900 as shown in FIG. 9 is displayed on the display 210a.

A message display area 902 similar to that in the payment method selection screen 500 is arranged at the top of the deposit return guidance screen 900 . In this message display area 902, a suitable relatively large character string 902a representing the title of the deposit return guidance screen 900, for example, the same content as the character string 802a in the electronic money settlement screen 800 is arranged. In addition, an appropriate character string 902b representing a supplementary message is arranged below the character string 902a. The message represented by the character string 902b includes the contents of prompting the user to return the cash accepted at present, that is, the deposit, and to operate the return button 304d. Further, an amount display area 904 similar to that in the payment method selection screen 500 is arranged below the message display area 902, more specifically, at the left side position. In this amount display area 904, an appropriate character string 904a representing the fee and an appropriate character string 904b representing the current amount of cash input are arranged vertically, for example. Note that the character string 904a in FIG. 9 indicates that the charge is 100 yen, and the character string 904b indicates that the current cash input amount is 60 yen. In addition, an end button 910 similar to that on the payment method selection screen 500 is arranged at the lower right portion of the deposit return guidance screen 900 .

It is assumed that, for example, the return button 304d is operated while the deposit return guidance screen 900 shown in FIG. 9 is displayed. Then, cash corresponding to the current amount of cash input, ie, the amount represented by the character string 904b, is returned. Then, instead of the deposit return guidance screen 900, an electronic money settlement screen 800 is displayed on the display 210a. That is, if there is a deposit at the time the electronic money settlement is selected, instead of the electronic money settlement screen 800, a deposit return guide screen 900, which is a special aspect of the electronic money settlement screen 800, is displayed on the display 210a. Is displayed. When the deposit is returned (settled) by operating the return button 304d, the electronic money payment screen 800 is displayed on the display 210a instead of the deposit return guide screen 900, that is, the copying by electronic money payment is displayed. execution becomes possible.

As described above, when the end button 710 on the copy end screen 700 is operated, the multi-copier 10 exits the copy service mode and returns to the standby state. Similarly, when the end button 510 (see FIG. 4, for example) on the payment method selection screen 500 is operated, the multi-copier 10 exits the copy service mode and returns to the standby state. This means that the end button 610 (see, for example, FIGS. 5 and 6) on the cash settlement screen 600, the end button 810 (see, for example, FIG. 8) on the electronic money settlement screen 800, and the end button 910 on the deposit return guidance screen 900. (See, for example, FIG. 9) is operated in the same way.

By the way, the multi-copier 10 (strictly speaking, the coin slot 304a and the banknote slot 304b) according to the first embodiment can receive cash at any time. That is, the user can insert cash at any time. On the other hand, it is thought that users who wish to make electronic money payments basically do not deposit cash, or at least the possibility of doing so is low. Furthermore, even a user who originally desired to pay in cash may wish to pay in electronic money halfway through the transaction due to reasons such as lack of cash on hand. Considering these things, based on whether or not cash is accepted, and if cash is accepted, based on the amount and the timing of the entry (timing), the user can make cash payments and It is considered possible to predict which of the electronic money settlements is desired. For example, when it is predicted that the user wishes to pay in cash, the display of the payment method selection screen 500 may be omitted, and the cash payment screen 600 may be displayed. From the point of view, it is preferable. In short, the payment method selection screen 500 is displayed only when necessary, more specifically, when it is unclear (indeterminate) whether the user desires cash payment or electronic money payment. ,preferable.

Therefore, according to the multi-copy machine 10 according to the first embodiment, the settlement method selection screen 500 is displayed only when necessary, that is, it is unclear whether the user desires cash settlement or electronic money settlement. is displayed only if When it is predicted that the user desires cash settlement, the display of the settlement method selection screen 500 is omitted and the cash settlement screen 600 is displayed. This improves the operability, especially for users who desire cash settlement.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, for example, the point in time when the user starts operating the multi-copier 10 is ta. Let tb be the time at which payment is required. Note that the time point tb at which payment is required is, in other words, the time point at which the charge is fixed.

Referring to FIG. 10, for example, at time tb when payment is required, the amount of cash inserted is 0 yen, that is, cash has not been accepted. In this case, since it is unclear whether the user desires cash settlement or electronic money settlement, the settlement method selection screen 500 is displayed.

On the other hand, for example, at time tb when payment is required, if the amount of cash input is not 0 yen, that is, if the amount of cash input is accepted, and the amount of cash input is sufficient for the amount required for payment, the user It is predicted that they want to pay in cash. In this case, the display of the payment method selection screen 500 is omitted and the cash payment screen 600 is displayed.

However, if the amount of cash input at time tb when payment is required is not 0 yen, but the amount is insufficient for the amount required for payment, the user selects cash payment (although he/she desires it). In other words, it is predicted that there is a possibility (more or less) that the user will select electronic money settlement. In this case, a settlement method selection screen 500 is displayed.

Furthermore, for example, if the amount of cash input at the time point tb at which settlement is required is not 0 yen and the amount includes the balance from the previous settlement, the display of the settlement method selection screen 500 is omitted, and the cash settlement is performed. Screen 600 is displayed. That is, in the case where copies are made continuously, and if the amount of cash input at time tb at which payment for the current copy is required includes the balance after the cash payment for the previous copy, the user cannot make a payment for the current copy. As for settlement, it is predicted that there is a high possibility that they will continue to prefer cash settlement. In this case, regardless of the amount of cash input at time tb at which the current settlement is required, particularly regardless of whether the amount of input at time tb is insufficient for the amount required for the current settlement, the payment method is selected. The display of the screen 500 is omitted and the cash settlement screen 600 is displayed.

Also, for example, if the amount of cash input at time tb at which payment is required is not 0 yen, and the amount includes the amount of cash input after operation start time ta, that is, cash is input after operation start time ta. If so, it is predicted that the user wishes to pay in cash. In this case as well, the display of the payment method selection screen 500 is omitted regardless of the amount of cash input at time tb, particularly whether the amount of input at time tb is insufficient for the amount required for settlement. , the cash payment screen 600 is displayed.

As described above, according to the first embodiment, the settlement method selection screen 500 is displayed only when necessary, that is, when it is unclear whether the user desires cash settlement or electronic money settlement. Is displayed. When it is predicted that the user desires cash settlement, the display of the settlement method selection screen 500 is omitted and the cash settlement screen 600 is displayed.

Here, FIG. 11 shows a memory map 100 conceptually representing the configuration within the RAM of the main storage unit 102b.

As shown in memory map 100 , RAM has a program storage area 120 and a data storage area 150 . In the program storage area 120 of these, the aforementioned control program is stored. Specifically, the control programs include a display control program 122 , an operation detection program 124 , an image reading program 126 , an image forming program 128 and a paper feed control program 130 . Further, the control programs include an external storage medium control program 132 , a money handling control program 134 , a near field communication control program 136 , a photo printer control program 138 , a slip printer control program 140 and an external communication control program 142 . In addition, the control programs include copy service program 144 and the like.

The display control program 122 is a program for generating display screen data necessary for displaying various screens such as the home screen 400 on the display 210a. The operation detection program 124 is a program for detecting an operation state on the touch panel 210b. The image reading program 126 is a program for controlling the image reading section 202 . The image forming program 128 is a program for controlling the image forming section 204 . A paper feed control program 130 is a program for controlling the paper feed unit 206 . The external storage medium control program 132 is a program for controlling the external storage medium communication section 302 . The money handling control program 134 is a program for controlling the money handling section 304 . The short-range communication control program 136 is a program for controlling the short-range communication unit 306 . Photo printer control program 138 is a program for controlling photo printer 308 . The paper strip printer control program 140 is a program for controlling the paper strip printer 310 . The external communication control program 142 is a program for controlling the external communication section 106 . The copy service program 144 is a program for causing the CPU 102a to execute a copy service task, which will be described later.

On the other hand, the data storage area 150 stores various data. The various data include display image generation data 152, operation data 154, and the like.

The display image generation data 152 is data such as polygon data and texture data used for generating display screen data based on the display control program 122 described above. The operation data 154 is data representing an operation state of the touch panel 210b, and more specifically, time-series data representing a user's touch position (coordinates) on the touch panel 210b. Although not shown, the data storage area 150 also stores a flag F and the like, which will be described later.

As described above, when the button 402 for selecting the copy service is operated on the home screen 400, the multi-copier 10 enters the copy service mode. Specifically, the copy service task is executed by the CPU 102a. This copy service task is executed according to the copy service program 144 . An example of the flow of this copy service task is shown in FIGS. 12 to 16. FIG. Note that the execution start time of this copy service task corresponds to the user operation start time ta shown in FIG.

According to this copy service task, the CPU 102a first sets the flag F to "0" as initial setting in step S1 of FIG. This flag F is an index (variable) that indicates whether or not copying (providing copy services) is to be continued. is represented. On the other hand, setting the flag F to "0" indicates that copying is not performed continuously. After executing step S1, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S3.

In step S<b>3 , the CPU 102 a confirms the current amount of cash input, and more specifically, confirms the calculation result of the input amount by the money processing unit 304 . Then, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S5.

In step S5, the CPU 102a determines whether or not the current cash input amount is 0 yen based on the confirmation result in step S3. Here, for example, if the current cash input amount is 0 yen (S5: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S7. On the other hand, if the current cash amount is not 0 yen (S5: NO), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S69 in FIG. 16, which will be described later.

In step S7, the CPU 102a performs setting processing necessary for copying, including displaying the aforementioned setting screen for performing settings necessary for copying on the display 210a. In this setting process, an appropriate setting operation by the user is accepted. After completing the setting process, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S9. It should be noted that the fee is fixed when this setting process is completed. Also, the point in time when this setting process ends corresponds to the point in time tb shown in FIG. 10 at which payment is required.

In step S9, the CPU 102a again confirms the current amount of cash input. Then, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S11.

In step S11, the CPU 102a compares the confirmation result in step S3 and the confirmation result in step S9 with each other to determine whether they are equivalent. determine whether or not Here, for example, if the amount of cash inserted remains unchanged at 0 yen, that is, if there is no cash inserted between the execution of step S3 and the execution of step S9 (S11: YES), the CPU 102a , the process proceeds to step S13. On the other hand, if the amount of cash inserted is not unchanged, that is, if cash is inserted between the execution of step S3 and the execution of step S9, in other words, if the amount of cash is not changed after the user's operation start time ta. If there is an input (S11: NO), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S55 in FIG. 15, which will be described later.

In step S13, the CPU 102a displays the payment method selection screen 500 (see FIG. 4, for example) on the display 210a instead of the setting screen previously displayed on the display 210a. Then, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S15.

In step S15, the CPU 102a waits for the user to perform some operation on the payment method selection screen 500, in other words, for the payment method selection screen 500 to accept some user operation (S15: NO). When the payment method selection screen 500 receives some user operation (S15: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S17.

In step S17, the CPU 102a determines whether the user operation accepted in step S15 is the operation of the end button 510 on the payment method selection screen 500, that is, the end operation. Here, for example, if the user operation accepted in step S15 is an end operation (S17: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S19. On the other hand, if the operation accepted in step S15 is not the end operation, that is, if it is an operation other than the end operation (S17: NO), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S21 in FIG. 13, which will be described later.

In step S19, the CPU 102a performs predetermined termination processing. As this termination process, the CPU 102a displays the aforementioned termination message screen on the display 210a instead of the settlement method selection screen 500. FIG. Then, after displaying the end message screen for a certain period of time, CPU 102a displays home screen 400 on display 210a instead of the end message screen. With this, the CPU 102a ends the copy service task. As a result, the multi-copier 10 exits the copy service mode and returns to the standby state described above.

Note that when the CPU 102a advances the process from step S17 described above to step S21 of FIG. It is determined whether or not the operation of is, so to speak, an electronic money payment selection operation. Here, for example, if the user operation accepted in step S15 is an electronic money payment selection operation (S21: YES), CPU 102a advances the process to step S23. On the other hand, if the user operation accepted in step S15 is not an electronic money payment selection operation, that is, if the user operation is an operation of the cash payment selection button 506, that is, a cash payment selection operation (S21: NO), the CPU 102a The process proceeds to step S53 in FIG. 15, which will be described later.

In step S23, the CPU 102a again confirms the current cash input amount. Then, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S25.

In step S25, the CPU 102a determines whether or not the current cash amount is 0 yen based on the confirmation result in step S23. Here, for example, if the current cash input amount is still 0 yen (S25: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S27. On the other hand, if the current cash amount is not 0 yen, that is, if there is a deposit (S25: NO), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S45, which will be described later.

In step S27, instead of the payment method selection screen 500, the CPU 102a displays an electronic money payment screen 800 (for example, see FIG. 8) on the display 210a. Then, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S29.

In step S29, the CPU 102a determines whether or not the end button 810 on the electronic money payment screen 800 has been operated, that is, whether or not the end operation has been accepted on the electronic money payment screen 800. Here, for example, when the end operation is accepted (S29: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S19 described above (FIG. 12) and performs a predetermined end process. On the other hand, if the end operation has not been accepted (S29: NO), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S31.

In step S31, the CPU 102a determines whether or not a predetermined electronic money card has been placed on the IC card reader 306a. Here, for example, when a predetermined electronic money card is placed on IC card reader 306a (S31: YES), CPU 102a advances the process to step S33. On the other hand, otherwise, the CPU 102a returns the process to step S29.

In step S33, the CPU 102a performs electronic money settlement processing using the electronic money card placed on the IC card reader 306a. At this time, the CPU 102a may appropriately update the screen displayed on the display 210a according to the progress of the electronic money settlement process. After completing the electronic money settlement process, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S35 in FIG.

In step S35, the CPU 102a executes copy processing for copying. Also at this time, the CPU 102a may appropriately update the screen displayed on the display 210a according to the progress of the copy processing. After completing the copy process, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S37.

In step S37, the CPU 102a displays a copy completion screen 700 (see FIG. 7) on the display 210a instead of the screen displayed on the display 210a. After that, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S39.

In step S39, the CPU 102a waits for the user to perform some user operation on the copy end screen 700 (S39: NO). Then, when the copy end screen 700 receives some user operation (S39: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S41.

In step S<b>41 , the CPU 102 a determines whether or not the user operation accepted in step S<b>39 is the end operation of operating the end button 710 on the copy end screen 700 . Here, for example, if the user operation accepted in step S39 is an end operation (S41: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S19 described above (FIG. 12). On the other hand, if the user operation accepted in step S39 is not an end operation, that is, if the user operation accepted in step S39 is an operation of the button 720 to continue copying, that is, an operation to continue copying (S41: NO), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S43.

In step S43, the CPU 102a sets the above-described flag F to "1" to indicate that copying is to be continued. Then, the CPU 102a returns the processing to the step S3 described above (FIG. 12), and confirms the current cash input amount again.

Further, when the process proceeds from step S25 to step S45 (FIG. 13), the CPU 102a displays a deposit return guide screen 900 (for example, see FIG. 9) instead of the payment method selection screen 500 in step S45. , are displayed on the display 210a. Then, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S47.

In step S47, the CPU 102a determines whether or not the end button 910 on the deposit return guidance screen 900 has been operated, that is, whether or not the end operation has been received on the deposit return guidance screen 900. Here, for example, when the end operation is accepted (S47: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S19 described above (FIG. 12). On the other hand, if the end operation has not been accepted (S47: NO), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S49.

In step S49, the CPU 102a again confirms the current amount of cash input. Then, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S51.

In step S51, the CPU 102a determines whether or not the current cash amount is 0 yen based on the confirmation result in step S49. Here, for example, if the current amount of cash inserted is 0 yen, that is, if the deposit has been returned by operating the return button 304d (S51: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S27. . Accordingly, instead of the deposit return guide screen 900, the electronic money settlement screen 800 is displayed on the display 210a. On the other hand, in step S51, if the current cash amount is not 0 yen, that is, if the deposit has not been returned yet (S51: NO), the CPU 102a returns the process to step S47.

Furthermore, when the CPU 102a advances the process from step S21 to step S53 of FIG. 15, the CPU 102a confirms the current cash input amount again in step S53. Then, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S55.

In step S55, CPU 102a displays cash settlement screen 600 (for example, see FIG. 5 or FIG. 6) instead of settlement method selection screen 500, or more precisely, the screen that has been displayed on display 210a. 210a. The confirmation result in step S53 is reflected in the cash settlement screen 600 displayed in step S55. Then, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S57.

In step S57, the CPU 102a determines whether or not the end button 610 on the cash settlement screen 600 has been operated, that is, whether or not the end operation has been received on the cash settlement screen 600. Here, for example, when the end operation is accepted (S57: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S19 described above (FIG. 12). On the other hand, if the end operation has not been accepted (S57: NO), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S59.

In step S59, the CPU 102a determines whether the copy start button 620 on the cash settlement screen 600 has been operated, that is, whether the copy start operation has been accepted on the cash settlement screen 600 or not. Here, for example, if a copy start operation has been accepted (S59: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S61. On the other hand, if the copy start operation has not been accepted (S59: NO), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S63, which will be described later.

In step S61, the CPU 102a performs cash settlement processing. In other words, the CPU 102a subtracts the amount of the charge from the current amount of cash input. At the same time, the CPU 102a notifies the money processing unit 304 of this calculation result. The money processing unit 304 receives the notification from the CPU 102a and updates the display contents of the inserted amount display unit 304c. After that, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S35 described above (FIG. 14) to execute the copy process.

On the other hand, when the process proceeds from step S59 to step S63, the CPU 102a confirms the current amount of cash inserted in step S63. Then, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S65.

In step S65, the CPU 102a determines whether or not there is a change in the amount of cash input. For example, when step S63 is executed for the first time after step S53 is executed, this determination is based on a comparison between the confirmation result in step S53 and the confirmation result in step S63, that is, whether there is a difference between the two. is done on the basis of Further, when step S63 is executed again after step S63 has been executed, determination in step S65 is performed based on the confirmation result in the previous step S63 and the confirmation result in the current step S63. Here, for example, if there is a change in the amount of cash inserted (S65: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S67. On the other hand, if there is no change in the amount of cash inserted (S65: NO), the CPU 102a returns the process to step S57.

In step S67, the CPU 102a updates the cash payment screen 600, and more specifically reflects the confirmation result in step S63 on the cash payment screen 600 (amount display area 604). Further, if it is found as a result of the confirmation in step S63 that the current amount of cash input is sufficient for the fee, the CPU 102a arranges a copy start button 620 on the cash settlement screen 600, that is, it becomes so. The cash settlement screen 600 is updated as follows. After that, the CPU 102a returns the process to step S57.

As described above, in step S11 (FIG. 12), if the amount of cash inserted is not unchanged, that is, if the amount of cash is inserted after the user's operation start time ta (S11: NO), the CPU 102a The process proceeds to step S55. That is, when cash is inserted after the operation start time ta by the user, the display of the payment method selection screen 500 is omitted, and the cash payment screen 600 is displayed on the display 210a.

In addition, when the CPU 102a advances the process from step S5 to step S69 of FIG. 16, in step S69, the same setting process as in step S7 is performed. After that, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S71. It should be noted that the fee is determined when the setting process in step S69 is completed. Also, the point in time when the setting process in step S69 ends corresponds to the point in time tb required for settlement.

In step S71, the CPU 102a again confirms the current cash input amount. Then, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S73.

In step S73, the CPU 102a determines whether or not the current amount of cash input exceeds 0 yen. Here, for example, if the current amount of cash inserted does not exceed 0 yen, that is, if the amount is 0 yen (S73: NO), the CPU 102a returns the deposit by operating the return button 304d. It recognizes that it is, and advances the process to the above-described step S13. As a result, the settlement method selection screen 500 is displayed on the display 210a. On the other hand, if the current amount of cash inserted exceeds 0 yen (S73: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S75.

In step S75, the CPU 102a determines whether or not the amount of cash input is unchanged, more specifically, whether or not the confirmation result in step S3 and the confirmation result in step S71 are equivalent to each other. Here, for example, if the amount of cash inserted is not unchanged, that is, if there is new cash inserted between the execution of step S3 and the execution of step S75 (S75: NO), the CPU 102a performs the process to the aforementioned step S55. As a result, the cash payment screen 600 is displayed on the display 210a. On the other hand, if the amount of cash input is unchanged (S75: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S77.

In step S77, the CPU 102a determines whether or not the above flag F is set to "0", that is, whether or not copying is currently being performed continuously. Here, for example, if the flag F is set to "1", that is, if copying is currently being continued (S77: NO), the CPU 102a replaces the current cash input amount with the previous cash settlement amount. It recognizes that the remaining amount of money is included, and advances the process to step S55. As a result, the cash payment screen 600 is displayed on the display 210a. On the other hand, if the flag F is set to "0" (S77: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S79.

In step S79, the CPU 102a determines whether or not the current amount of cash input is insufficient for the fee. Here, for example, if the current amount of cash input is not short of the charge, that is, if the input amount is sufficient for the charge (S79: NO), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S55. . As a result, the cash payment screen 600 is displayed on the display 210a. On the other hand, if the current amount of cash input is insufficient for the fee (S79: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S13. As a result, the settlement method selection screen 500 is displayed on the display 210a.

As described above, according to the multi-copier 10 of the first embodiment, the payment method selection screen 500 is displayed only when necessary, that is, whether the user desires cash payment or electronic money payment. Shown only if unknown. When it is predicted that the user desires cash settlement, the display of the settlement method selection screen 500 is omitted and the cash settlement screen 600 is displayed. This improves the operability, especially for users who desire cash settlement.

In the first embodiment, the CPU 102a that executes the copy service task according to the flow shown in FIGS. It is an example of control means.

[Second embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment of the invention will be described.

In the second embodiment, instead of the cash settlement screen 600 shown in FIG. 5 in the first embodiment, a cash settlement screen 650 as shown in FIG. 17 is displayed on the display 210a. The cash settlement screen 650 shown in FIG. 17 is a screen in which an electronic money settlement switch button 660 is added to the cash settlement screen 600 shown in FIG. This electronic money settlement switch button 660 is an operator for switching the multi-copier 10 from the state where the cash settlement screen 650 is displayed, that is, from the state for cash settlement to the state for electronic money settlement. is. Electronic money payment switching button 660 is arranged at an appropriate position, for example, above end button 610 .

That is, when the electronic money payment switching button 660 is operated on the cash payment screen 650 shown in FIG. 17, an electronic money payment screen 850 as shown in FIG. 18 is displayed instead of the cash payment screen 650 on the display 210a. to be displayed. As a result, the multi-copier 10 transitions from the state for cash settlement to the state for electronic money settlement. Note that the electronic money payment screen 850 shown in FIG. 18 is a screen in which a cash payment switching button 860 is added to the electronic money payment screen 800 shown in FIG. 8 in the first embodiment. This cash payment switch button 860 switches the multi-copier 10 from the state where the electronic money payment screen 850 is displayed, that is, the state for electronic money payment, to the state for cash payment, that is, the cash payment screen 650. It is an operator for switching to the state where is displayed. This cash payment switching button 860 is arranged at an appropriate position, for example, above the end button 810 .

Therefore, for example, when the cash payment switching button 860 is operated on the electronic money payment screen 850 shown in FIG. 18, the cash payment screen 650 shown in FIG. Is displayed. In short, according to the second embodiment, the state of the multi-copier 10 can be arbitrarily changed from one of the state for cash settlement and the state for electronic money settlement to the other. .

Note that the cash settlement screen 650 shown in FIG. 17 is an example of the cash settlement screen 650 when the current amount of cash input is insufficient for the fee. For example, the cash payment screen 650 when the current amount of cash input is sufficient for the charge is as shown in FIG. The cash settlement screen 650 shown in FIG. 19 corresponds to the cash settlement screen 600 shown in FIG. 6 in the first embodiment. 660 is a screen of the aspect added.

Also when the electronic money payment switching button 660 is operated on the cash payment screen 650 shown in FIG. 19, the multi-copier 10 transitions from the cash payment state to the electronic money payment state. do. However, in this case, strictly speaking, if the electronic money payment switching button 660 on the cash payment screen 650 is operated while there is a deposit, a deposit as shown in FIG. A money return guide screen 950 is displayed on the display 210a.

The deposit return guidance screen 950 shown in FIG. 20 shows an example of the deposit return guidance screen 950 when there is a deposit of 60 yen. It corresponds to screen 900 . That is, the deposit return guidance screen 950 shown in FIG. 20 is a screen in which a cash payment switch button 960 is added to the deposit return guidance screen 900 shown in FIG. 9 in the first embodiment. The deposit return guide screen 950 in the second embodiment is also a screen in a special mode of the electronic money settlement screen 850, like the deposit return guide screen 900 in the first embodiment. When the cash settlement switch button 960 is operated on the deposit return guidance screen 950, the cash settlement screen 650 is displayed on the display 210a instead of the deposit return guidance screen 950. FIG.

In the second embodiment as described above, for example, when the multi-copier 10 enters the copy service mode, the CPU 102a executes the copy service task according to the copy service program 144. FIG. However, the copy service task in the second embodiment is executed according to the flow shown in FIGS. 12, 14 and 16 and FIGS. be done.

That is, according to the copy service task in the second embodiment, the CPU 102a executes each process of steps S1 to S19 shown in FIG. Then, particularly in step S17, the CPU 102a determines whether or not the user operation accepted in step S15 is an end operation. Here, for example, if the user operation is not an end operation (S17: NO), 21, the process proceeds to step S101.

In step S101, the CPU 102a determines whether the user operation received in step S15 is the operation of the electronic money payment selection button 508 on the payment method selection screen 500, that is, whether it is the electronic money payment selection operation. judge. Here, for example, if the user operation accepted in step S15 is an electronic money payment selection operation (S101: YES), CPU 102a advances the process to step S103. On the other hand, if the user operation accepted in step S15 is not the electronic money payment selection operation, that is, if the user operation is the cash payment selection operation of operating the cash payment selection button 506 (S101: NO), the CPU 102a performs the process. to step S117 in FIG. 22, which will be described later.

In step S103, the CPU 102a again confirms the current cash input amount. Then, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S105.

In step S105, the CPU 102a determines whether or not the current cash amount is 0 yen based on the confirmation result in step S103. Here, for example, if the current cash input amount is 0 yen (S105: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S107. On the other hand, if the current cash amount is not 0 yen, that is, if there is a deposit (S105: NO), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S135 in FIG. 23, which will be described later.

In step S107, instead of the payment method selection screen 500, the CPU 102a displays an electronic money payment screen 850 (see FIG. 18, for example) on the display 210a. Then, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S109.

In step S109, the CPU 102a determines whether or not the end button 810 on the electronic money payment screen 850 has been operated, that is, whether or not the end operation has been accepted on the electronic money payment screen 850. Here, for example, if a termination operation has been accepted (S109: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S19 described above (FIG. 12), and performs a predetermined termination process. On the other hand, if the end operation has not been accepted (S109: NO), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S111.

In step S111, the CPU 102a determines whether or not a predetermined electronic money card has been placed on the IC card reader 306a. Here, for example, when a predetermined electronic money card is placed on IC card reader 306a (S111: YES), CPU 102a advances the process to step S113. On the other hand, otherwise, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S115 in FIG. 22, which will be described later.

In step S113, the CPU 102a performs electronic money settlement processing using the electronic money card placed on the IC card reader 306a. After completing the electronic money settlement process in step S113, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S35 in FIG. 14 to execute the copy process.

On the other hand, when proceeding from step S111 to step S115 of FIG. 22, the CPU 102a determines whether or not the cash payment switch button 860 on the electronic money payment screen 850 has been operated in step S115. Here, for example, if the cash payment switching button 860 is operated, that is, if the cash payment switching operation is accepted on the electronic money payment screen 850 (S115: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S117. On the other hand, if the cash payment switching operation is not accepted on the electronic money payment screen 850 (S115: NO), the CPU 102a returns the process to step S109 of FIG.

In step S117, the CPU 102a again confirms the current amount of cash input. Then, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S119.

In step S119, CPU 102a displays cash settlement screen 650 (see, for example, FIG. 17 or 19) on display 210a instead of the screen that has been displayed on display 210a. The confirmation result in step S117 is reflected in the cash settlement screen 650 displayed in step S119. Then, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S121.

In step S121, the CPU 102a determines whether or not the end button 610 on the cash settlement screen 650 has been operated, that is, whether or not the end operation has been received on the cash settlement screen 650. Here, for example, when the end operation is accepted (S121: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S19 described above (FIG. 12). On the other hand, if the end operation has not been accepted (S121: NO), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S123.

In step S123, the CPU 102a determines whether the copy start button 620 on the cash settlement screen 650 has been operated, that is, whether the copy start operation has been accepted on the cash settlement screen 650 or not. Here, for example, if a copy start operation has been accepted (S123: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S125. On the other hand, if the copy start operation has not been accepted (S123: NO), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S127, which will be described later.

In step S125, the CPU 102a performs cash settlement processing. After that, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S35 in FIG. 14 and executes the copy process.

Further, when proceeding from step S123 to step S127, the CPU 102a determines in step S127 whether or not the electronic money payment switching button 660 on the cash payment screen 650 has been operated. Here, for example, if the electronic money payment switching button 660 is operated, that is, if the electronic money payment switching operation is accepted on the cash payment screen 650 (S127: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S103. return. On the other hand, if the electronic money payment switching operation has not been accepted on the cash payment screen 650 (S127: NO), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S129.

In step S129, the CPU 102a again confirms the current cash input amount. Then, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S131.

In step S131, the CPU 102a determines whether or not there is a change in the amount of cash input. For example, when step S129 is executed for the first time after step S119 is executed, this determination is based on a comparison between the confirmation result in step S119 and the confirmation result in step S129, that is, whether there is a difference between the two. is done on the basis of Further, when step S129 is executed again after step S129 has been executed, the determination in step S131 is performed based on the confirmation result in the previous step S129 and the confirmation result in the current step S129. Here, for example, if there is a change in the amount of cash inserted (S131: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S133. On the other hand, if there is no change in the amount of cash inserted (S131: NO), the CPU 102a returns the process to step S121.

In step S133, the CPU 102a updates the cash payment screen 650, and more specifically reflects the confirmation result in step S129 on the cash payment screen 650 (amount display area 604). Further, if it is found as a result of the confirmation in step S129 that the current amount of cash input is sufficient for the charge, the CPU 102a arranges the copy start button 620 on the cash settlement screen 650, that is, it becomes so. The cash settlement screen 650 is updated as follows. After that, the CPU 102a returns the process to step S121.

Furthermore, when the CPU 102a advances the process from step S105 in FIG. 21 to step S135 in FIG. A money return guide screen 950 (see FIG. 20, for example) is displayed on the display 210a. Then, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S137.

In step S137, the CPU 102a determines whether the end button 910 on the deposit return guide screen 950 has been operated, that is, whether the end operation has been accepted on the deposit return guide screen 950. FIG. Here, for example, when the end operation is accepted (S137: YES), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S19 described above (FIG. 12). On the other hand, if the end operation has not been accepted (S137: NO), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S139.

In step S139, the CPU 102a determines whether or not the cash settlement switch button 960 on the deposit return guidance screen 950 has been operated. Here, for example, when the cash payment switching button 960 is operated, that is, when the cash payment switching operation is accepted on the deposit return guide screen 950 (S139: YES), the CPU 102a performs the processing described above (FIG. 22). Proceed to step S117. In this case, in step S117, after the current amount of cash is confirmed, in subsequent step S119, a cash settlement screen 650 reflecting the confirmation result in step S117 is displayed on display 210a. On the other hand, in step S139, if the cash payment switching operation is not accepted on the deposit return guide screen 950 (S139: NO), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S141.

In step S141, the CPU 102a again confirms the current cash input amount. Then, the CPU 102a advances the process to step S143.

In step S143, the CPU 102a determines whether or not the current cash amount is 0 yen based on the confirmation result in step S141. Here, for example, if the current amount of cash input is 0 yen, that is, if the deposit has been returned by operating the return button 304d (S143: YES), the CPU 102a performs the processing described above (FIG. 21). Proceed to step S107. Accordingly, instead of the deposit return guide screen 950, the electronic money settlement screen 850 is displayed on the display 210a. On the other hand, in step S143, if the current cash amount is not 0 yen, that is, if the deposit has not been returned yet (S143: NO), the CPU 102a returns the process to step S137.

As described above, in step S101 of FIG. 21, if the user operation accepted in step S15 is not the electronic money payment selection operation, that is, if the user operation is the cash payment selection operation of operating the cash payment selection button 506. (S101: NO), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S117 in FIG. In this case, in step S117, after the current amount of cash is confirmed, in subsequent step S119, a cash settlement screen 650 reflecting the confirmation result in step S117 is displayed on display 210a.

Further, in step S11 described above (FIG. 12), if the amount of cash inserted is not unchanged, that is, if the cash is inserted after the operation start time ta by the user (S11: NO), the CPU 102a executes the process. The process proceeds to step S119 in FIG. That is, when cash is inserted after the operation start time ta by the user, the display of the payment method selection screen 500 is omitted, and the cash payment screen 650 is displayed on the display 210a.

Further, in step S5 described above (FIG. 12), the CPU 102a advances the process to step S69 described above (FIG. 16) when the current cash input amount is not 0 yen (S5: NO). Since the subsequent steps are the same as those of the first embodiment, detailed description thereof will be omitted.

As described above, according to the second embodiment, from the state where the cash settlement screen 650 is displayed on the display 210a, the electronic money settlement screen 850 or the deposit return guide screen 950, which is a special aspect of the electronic money settlement screen 850, is displayed. can be arbitrarily transitioned to a state in which is displayed on the display 210a. In addition, a reverse transition is also possible. Therefore, for example, it is possible to respond flexibly to the case where the user wants to change the payment method on the way, and further improve the operability.

Note that, in the second embodiment, the CPU 102a that executes the copy service task, from a state in which one of the cash settlement screen 650 and the electronic money settlement screen 850 or the deposit return guidance screen 950 is displayed on the display 210a, The CPU 102a that controls switching to the state in which the other of these is displayed on the display 210a is an example of state switching means according to the present invention. The electronic money settlement screen 850 and the deposit return guidance screen 950 are examples of specific settlement screens according to the present invention. Furthermore, electronic money settlement is an example of the identification method according to the present invention.

[Other application examples]
Each of the above examples is a specific example of the present invention, and does not limit the technical scope of the present invention. The present invention can also be applied to aspects other than these examples.

For example, the configuration (design) of each screen such as the payment method selection screen 500 shown in FIG. 4 is not limited to the configuration described here.

Also, for example, if the amount of cash input at time tb when payment is required is not 0 yen, that is, if some amount of cash has been input at time tb, whether the amount of input is sufficient for the charge. Regardless of whether the amount is insufficient, the display of the payment method selection screen 500 may be omitted and the cash payment screen 600 (or 650) may be displayed unconditionally.

Furthermore, for example, if the amount of cash input at the time point tb at which settlement is required is insufficient for the fee, whether or not the balance (balance) from the previous settlement is included in the input amount, or The payment method selection screen 500 may be displayed unconditionally regardless of whether or not the input amount includes the input amount after the user's operation start time ta.

In addition, payment by combining cash payment and electronic money payment (compound payment) may be made possible.

In each embodiment, the case where the present invention is applied to an electronic apparatus including an image forming apparatus such as the multi-copier 10 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. That is, the present invention can also be applied to electronic devices other than the multi-copier 10. FIG.

The present invention can be provided not only in the form of an electronic device, but also in the form of a program (software) called a control program for the electronic device, and in the form of a method called a control method for the electronic device. .

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10... Multi-copier 20... MFP 30... Application box 210... Operation display part 102... Control part 102a... CPU
210a...display 210b...touch panel 304...money processing unit 304a...coin slot 304b...bill slot 306...near-field communication unit 306a...IC card reader 500...payment method selection screen 600, 650...cash payment screen 800, 850... Electronic money settlement screen 900, 950 … Deposit return guidance screen

Claims (11)

An electronic device capable of charging a fee corresponding to a user operation and performing settlement of the fee by one of a plurality of settlement methods including cash settlement with cash,
cash receiving means for receiving the input of cash;
a display means having a display surface;
Display or hide a selection screen for selecting which of the plurality of payment methods is to be used for payment of the charge on the display screen based on the amount of the inserted cash received by the cash receiving means. a control means;
When the selection screen is hidden, the control means displays a cash settlement screen for performing the cash settlement on the display surface, and
The electronic device, wherein the control means displays the selection screen when the input amount at the time when payment of the fee is required is not zero but is insufficient for the amount required for the payment. 2. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein said control means further displays said selection screen when said input amount is zero at the time when payment of said charge is required. The control means further hides the selection screen and displays the cash payment screen when the input amount at the time when payment of the fee is required is sufficient for the amount required for the payment. 3. The electronic device according to claim 1 or 2. Further, even if the input amount at the time when payment of the fee is required is not zero but is insufficient for the amount required for the payment, the control means 4. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein when the input amount includes a balance from the previous payment , the selection screen is hidden and the cash payment screen is displayed. Further, even if the input amount at the time when payment of the fee is required is not zero but is insufficient for the amount required for the payment, the control means 5. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 4 , wherein the selection screen is hidden and the cash settlement screen is displayed when the input amount includes the amount of input after the start of the user operation. . From the state where the cash payment screen is displayed on the display screen, a specific payment screen is displayed on the display screen for performing payment of the charge by a specific method other than the cash payment among the plurality of payment methods. 6. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 , further comprising state switching means for switching to a state of 7. The electronic system according to claim 6 , wherein the state switching means can switch from a state in which the specific settlement screen is displayed on the display surface to a state in which the cash settlement screen is displayed on the display surface. Device. 8. The electronic device according to claim 6 , wherein said specifying method is electronic money settlement using electronic money. 9. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the electronic device is an image forming device that forms an image on an image recording medium. A control program for an electronic device capable of charging a fee corresponding to a user operation and performing settlement of the fee by one of a plurality of settlement methods including cash settlement,
a computer of the electronic device;
a cash receiving procedure for receiving the cash input;
A selection screen for selecting which one of the plurality of payment methods is to be used for payment of the fee is displayed on the display surface of the display means provided in the electronic device based on the amount of the inserted cash received in the cash reception procedure. a control procedure to display or hide, and
In the control procedure, when the selection screen is hidden, a cash settlement screen for performing the cash settlement is displayed on the display surface ;
A control program for displaying the selection screen when, in the control procedure, the input amount at the time when payment of the fee is required is not zero but is insufficient for the amount required for the payment. A control method for an electronic device capable of charging a fee corresponding to a user operation and performing settlement of the fee by one of a plurality of settlement methods including cash settlement,
a cash receiving step of receiving the cash input;
A selection screen for selecting which of the plurality of payment methods is to be used for payment of the charge is displayed on the display surface of the display means provided in the electronic device based on the amount of the inserted cash received in the cash receiving step. a control step to display or hide,
In the control step, if the selection screen is to be hidden, a cash settlement screen for performing the cash settlement is displayed on the display surface ;
In the control step, the selection screen is displayed when the input amount at the time when payment of the fee is required is not zero but is insufficient for the amount required for the payment.

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