JP2013143024A - Image forming device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming device that allows suppressing of an increase in an arrangement space for keys while improving input operability, and that further prevents a user from being confused.SOLUTION: An image forming device 100 comprises a touch panel display 182, and a controller 110 for controlling operations of the device itself in response to an input from the touch panel display 182. The touch panel display 182 displays thereon a virtual numeric keypad 200 including a plurality of numeric keys 210. The virtual numeric keypad 200 includes a "00" key 230. The image forming device 100 determines whether a predetermined condition is satisfied on displaying the virtual numeric keypad 200, displays the "00" key 230 on the virtual numeric keypad 200 if the predetermined condition is satisfied, and does not display the "00" key 230 on the virtual numeric keypad 200 if the predetermined condition is not satisfied.

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, and more particularly to an image forming apparatus having an input function for inputting numerical values (numeric characters).

  As one type of information equipment, an image forming apparatus (typically a copier) is installed in many offices (company, office, etc.). In such offices, there are many cases where an image forming apparatus having a print function or a copy function is connected to a network and used by a plurality of users. Further, like a multifunction peripheral (MFP (Multifunction Peripheral)) which is one of such image forming apparatuses, a copy mode, an image communication mode (typically a facsimile mode), a network compatible print mode, and a scanner mode. In many cases, a plurality of modes have a plurality of modes.

  In an image forming apparatus, there are many opportunities to input numerical values such as the number of copies. Therefore, in order to facilitate the input of numerical values, the image forming apparatus may include a numeric keypad including a plurality of numeric keys. Conventionally, a numeric keypad having a “00” key and a “000” key is known in order to reduce the number of key inputs. Patent Documents 1 to 3 listed below disclose such a numeric keypad.

JP 57-94835 A JP-A-1-177626 JP-A-3-105411

  Like the numeric keys described in Patent Document 1 to Patent Document 3, by providing a “00” key and a “000” key, the numerical value input operation is improved. However, when the “00” key and the “000” key are provided, there is a problem that a space for arranging the numeric keys becomes large. Further, when it is not necessary to use the “00” key and the “000” key, if these keys are provided, the user may be confused, and there is a risk of causing an operation error by the user.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and one object of the present invention is to improve the input operation, to suppress an increase in the key arrangement space, and It is an object of the present invention to provide an image forming apparatus that can prevent confusion.

  In order to achieve the above object, an image forming apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention includes a touch panel display, a control unit for controlling the operation of the own device in accordance with an input from the touch panel display, and a plurality of numbers. Display control means for performing control to display a key group including keys on a touch panel display. The key group further includes a specific key for inputting a plurality of specific numbers, and the display control means determines whether or not a predetermined condition is satisfied when displaying the key group, and the determination result is Accordingly, switching means for switching between display and non-display of the specific key is included.

  A key group including a plurality of numeric keys is displayed on the touch panel display, and at that time, depending on whether or not a predetermined condition is satisfied, a specific key for inputting a plurality of digits of a specific number is displayed on the touch panel display. Switch the display. Since the specific key can be switched between display and non-display according to the situation, it is possible to suppress an increase in the key arrangement space by hiding the specific key. That is, the keys can be arranged in a space-saving manner. For this reason, the area | region where the other display on a touchscreen display is hidden by the display of a key group can be made small. On the other hand, by displaying the specific key, it is possible to input a plurality of specific digits with this specific key. Therefore, by operating the specific key, a plurality of digits can be input with one input operation. . Thereby, since the frequency | count of key input can be reduced, input operation can be improved. In particular, an image forming apparatus capable of high-speed printing has a large input numerical value for the number of prints that can be set. Therefore, such image formation is performed by displaying (arranging) the specific key that allows a plurality of specific numbers to be input. The device greatly contributes to the improvement of input operation. Further, by hiding the specific key according to the situation, unnecessary display can be avoided as much as possible when the specific key is not necessary. Thereby, the confusion of the user who operates the key group displayed on the touch panel display can be prevented.

  Preferably, the switching unit includes a unit for determining whether or not an input using a specific key is possible and switching between display and non-display of the specific key according to the determination result.

  When input using a specific key is possible, the input operation can be facilitated by displaying the specific key. On the other hand, when input using a specific key is impossible, the specific key is hidden to prevent confusion to the user due to being displayed even though the specific key is not usable. Can do.

  Preferably, the image forming apparatus operates in one operation mode selected by the user from among a plurality of operation modes, and the switching unit is responsive to selection of a predetermined operation mode by the user. Means for switching the display mode to display the specific key on the touch panel display is included.

  When the operation mode selected by the user is a predetermined operation mode, a specific key is displayed. In the operation mode, a numerical value with a large number of digits can be obtained by inputting a numerical value using the specific key. You can enter with a few keystrokes. Thereby, the operativity of numerical input can be improved effectively.

  In this case, the plurality of operation modes can be configured to include a copy mode, a facsimile mode, and an authentication code input mode.

  More preferably, the switching unit switches the display mode so that the specific key is displayed on the touch panel display in response to at least the copy mode being selected by the user.

  In the copy mode, it may be necessary to input a numerical value such as input of the number of copies. In the copy mode, since a large amount of copying can be performed, a numerical value having a large number of digits may be input. In particular, in an image forming apparatus capable of high-speed printing, there are many opportunities to input numerical values having a large number of digits. Therefore, when the copy mode is selected by the user, it is possible to easily improve the operability of numerical input such as input of the number of copies by displaying a specific key.

  In the image forming apparatus according to the one aspect described above, preferably, the image forming apparatus further includes display setting means for setting whether or not to display the specific key, and the switching means includes the specific key by the display setting means. Means for switching between display and non-display of the specific key according to the display setting is included.

  For example, depending on the office environment in which the image forming apparatus is installed, the usage status of the image forming apparatus also varies. Therefore, for example, by switching between display and non-display of the specific key in accordance with the usage status of the installation site, it is possible to improve the input operation and prevent user confusion.

  In the image forming apparatus according to the above aspect, preferably, the image forming apparatus further includes a receiving unit for receiving an input by the specific key, and the display control unit is responsive to receiving the input of the specific key by the receiving unit. And highlighting means for highlighting and displaying a specific number of digits corresponding to the specified key on the touch panel display.

  By inputting a numerical value using a specific key, the input operation can be improved when inputting a numerical value having a large number of digits. On the other hand, in the input of numerical values having a large number of digits, input errors generally increase. When inputting a numerical value using a specific key, by emphasizing and displaying a specific number of digits corresponding to the specific key on the touch panel display, input errors can be reduced even when a numerical value having a large number of digits is input. For example, in inputting the number of copies, if an input error occurs when the number of copies is large, the waste of printing costs becomes very large. Therefore, when inputting a numerical value with a large number of digits, input mistakes can be reduced, so that waste of printing costs can be effectively suppressed.

  More preferably, the specific key is a numeric key (“00” key) for inputting two digits of zero. Thereby, for example, when a well-cut numerical value such as “100” or “200” is input, the input operation can be improved more easily. The specific key may be a numeric key (“000” key) for inputting three digits of zero, for example.

  In the image forming apparatus according to the above aspect, the image forming apparatus preferably counts the number of times that a specific numeric key is continuously input from the touch panel display, and the count number within a predetermined period is equal to or greater than the predetermined number. The switching unit further includes a unit for switching between display and non-display of the specific key in accordance with a determination result of the determination unit.

  By counting the number of times a specific number key is continuously input, it is possible to know how many usage situations a specific number is continuously input. When the count number within the predetermined period is equal to or greater than the predetermined number, if a specific key for inputting a specific number of digits is displayed, it is predicted that the specific key is likely to be used. For this reason, according to the above configuration, for example, it can be determined whether or not the specific key is used at the installation site where the image forming apparatus is installed. When the specific key is used, it is possible to easily improve the input operation by displaying the specific key. On the other hand, when the specific key is not frequently used, the display space of each key can be expanded by hiding the specific key, and the user who operates the key group displayed on the touch panel display is confused. Can be effectively prevented.

  In this case, the specific key is preferably a numeric key for inputting two digits of zero, and the specific numeric key is preferably a numeric key for inputting one digit of zero.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to easily obtain an image forming apparatus that can improve an input operation, suppress an increase in key arrangement space, and prevent user confusion.

1 is a control block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the virtual ten key displayed on a touchscreen display (figure of the state where the "00" key was displayed). It is a figure (figure in the state where the "00" key is not displayed) which shows the structure of the virtual ten key displayed on a touch panel display. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a key display table held in the image forming apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1. 2 is a flowchart showing a control structure of a program executed by the image forming apparatus of FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a control structure of a program executed by the image forming apparatus of FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a basic copy screen displayed on a touch panel display of the image forming apparatus of FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a magnification setting screen displayed on a touch panel display of the image forming apparatus in FIG. 1. It is the figure which expanded and showed the display column in which the input numerical value is displayed in a virtual numeric keypad. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a key display table held in an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a control structure of a program executed by the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of a setting screen displayed on the touchscreen display of the image forming apparatus which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a control structure of a program executed by the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a control structure of a program executed by the image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a control structure of a program executed by the image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of a setting screen displayed on the touchscreen display of the image forming apparatus which concerns on the 1st modification of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the virtual ten key displayed on a touchscreen display (figure in the state where the "000" key is displayed). It is a figure which shows the structure of the virtual ten key displayed on the touchscreen display of the image forming apparatus which concerns on the 2nd modification of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the virtual ten key displayed on the touchscreen display of the image forming apparatus which concerns on the 2nd modification of this invention.

  In the following embodiments, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their functions and names are also the same. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

(First embodiment)
Referring to FIG. 1, an image forming apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes, for example, an MFP having a copy function, a scanner function, a facsimile (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as “FAX”) function, and the like. (Digital multifunction device). In the image forming apparatus 100, when one of various operation modes including a copy mode, a scanner mode, and a FAX mode is selected by the user, various processes corresponding to the selected operation mode can be executed. The image forming apparatus 100 has a so-called laser (electrophotographic) printing function that uses laser light for exposure. However, other types of printing functions may be provided. The image forming apparatus 100 is a high-speed machine capable of high-speed printing.

[Hardware configuration]
The image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment includes a control unit 110, a scanner unit 120, an image processing unit 130, an image forming unit 140, a user authentication unit 150, a FAX communication unit 160, a network interface (hereinafter referred to as “network I / F”). 170) and an operation panel 180.

  The control unit 110 is substantially a computer, and includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 112, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 114, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 116, and an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 118. A BUS line 190 is connected to the CPU 112, and the ROM 114, the RAM 116, and the HDD 118 are electrically connected to the BUS line 190. The CPU 112 executes various computer programs in accordance with instructions from the operation panel 180 and the like, thereby performing operations of each unit of the image forming apparatus 100 and communication with an external device such as an information processing apparatus (not shown). Execute the process. The various computer programs described above are stored in advance in the ROM 114 or the HDD 118, and are read from the ROM 114 or the HDD 118 and transferred to the RAM 116 when desired processing is executed. The CPU 112 reads and interprets a program instruction from an address in the RAM 116 specified by a value stored in a register called a program counter (not shown) in the CPU 112. The CPU 112 also reads data necessary for the operation from the address specified by the read instruction, and executes an operation corresponding to the instruction on the data. The execution result is also stored in an address specified by the instruction, such as a register in the RAM 116, HDD 118, and CPU 112.

  The HDD 118 stores a computer program for realizing general operations of the image forming apparatus 100. This computer program is provided from an information processing apparatus or the like via the network 50 and the network I / F 170. The computer program may be provided by a storage medium such as a DVD on which the computer program is recorded. That is, a DVD as a computer program recording medium may be mounted on a DVD drive (not shown) built in image forming apparatus 100, and the computer program may be read from the DVD and installed in HDD 118. In addition, the HDD 118 stores various data including image data and the like.

  Further, the scanner unit 120, the image processing unit 130, the image forming unit 140, the user authentication unit 150, the FAX communication unit 160, the network I / F 170, and the operation panel 180 are electrically connected to the BUS line 190.

  The scanner unit 120 includes a document detection sensor and a CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) line sensor (none of which is shown). The document detection sensor is a light source (not shown) for an image surface of a document placed on a document placement table (not shown) manually by a user or by an automatic document feeder (not shown). The reflected light image obtained by irradiating light from the above is formed on the CCD line sensor. The CCD line sensor sequentially photoelectrically converts the formed reflected light image and outputs it to the image processing unit 130 as image data. That is, when copying or scanning a document, the scanner unit 120 reads image information from a document placed on a document placement table by a document detection sensor and converts the read image information into an electrical signal by a CCD line sensor. The data is output to the image processing unit 130 as data.

  The image processing unit 130 includes an MPU (Micro Processing Unit, not shown). The image processing unit 130 performs various kinds of processing including predetermined image processing such as rasterization processing on the image data received from the scanner unit 120 or the information processing apparatus or the like, and generates print data with predetermined gradation. Created and output to the image forming unit 140.

  The image forming unit 140 prints an image indicated by image data on a recording sheet, and includes, for example, a photosensitive drum, a charging device, a laser scanning unit (LSU), a developing device, a transfer device, a cleaning device, and a fixing device. And a static eliminator. For example, the image forming unit 140 is provided with a conveyance path, and a recording sheet fed from a sheet feeding unit (not shown) is conveyed along the conveyance path. The paper feed unit pulls out the recording paper stored in a paper cassette (not shown) or the recording paper placed on the manual feed tray one by one, and sends the recording paper to the conveyance path of the image forming unit 140. . While the recording paper is being transported along the transport path of the image forming unit 140, the recording paper passes between the photosensitive drum and the transfer device, and further passes through the fixing device to perform printing on the recording paper. It is.

  The photosensitive drum rotates in one direction, and its surface is cleaned by a cleaning device and a static eliminator and then uniformly charged by a charging device. The laser scanning unit modulates the laser beam based on the image data to be printed, and repeatedly scans the surface of the photosensitive drum in the main scanning direction with this laser beam to form an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum. To do. The developing device supplies toner to the surface of the photosensitive drum to develop the electrostatic latent image, and forms a toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum. The transfer device transfers the toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum to a recording sheet passing between the transfer device and the photosensitive drum.

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

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

  The FAX communication unit 160 provides connection to the public line 60. The FAX communication unit 160 also transmits / receives image data via the public line 60.

  Operation panel 180 includes a touch panel display 182. The touch panel display 182 is a touch panel integrated liquid crystal display device in which a display panel 184 and a touch panel 186 are overlapped. The display panel 184 provides the user with various information such as information relating to the status of the image forming apparatus 100 and the status of various processes. The touch panel display 182 also provides an interactive operation interface for the user. This interactive operation interface accepts user instructions for the overall operation of the image forming apparatus 100 from the touch panel 186, displays the contents of the instructions on the display panel 184, and sends a control signal corresponding to the instructions to the control unit 110 or Output to the MPU of the image processing unit 130.

  In image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment, as will be described later, numerical input of 0 to 9, clear input, and partial symbol input are performed by the user pressing a software key displayed on touch panel display 182. Done.

  The user authentication unit 150 executes login by inputting an authentication code on an authentication screen (not shown) displayed on the touch panel display 182 when the image forming apparatus 100 is activated. The authentication code input operation is performed using a software key displayed on the touch panel display 182.

  The image forming apparatus 100 includes a copy mode, a scanner mode, a printer mode, and a FAX mode as basic operation modes. The image forming apparatus 100 further includes modes (operation modes) such as a magnification setting mode, a margin setting mode, an image shift setting mode, and an authentication code input mode in addition to the above operation modes. The magnification setting mode is a mode for setting the copy magnification in the copy mode. The margin setting mode is a mode for setting margins in the copy mode. In the margin setting mode, for example, a margin (margin) for binding the copied recording paper is set. The image shift setting mode is a mode for moving an image in the copy mode. In this image shift setting mode, for example, when the size of the original and the size of the paper to be copied are different, a moving amount for making a copy by moving the image is set. The authentication code input mode is a mode for inputting an authentication code from the touch panel display 182.

  As described above, the image forming apparatus 100 has various modes, and depending on the mode selected by the user, input of numerical values may be required. For example, in the copy mode, input of a numerical value is required when setting the number of copies. In the magnification setting mode, the margin setting mode, and the image shift setting mode, input of numerical values is required when inputting the magnification, the margin size, and the shift amount, respectively. In the authentication code input mode, a numerical value is requested when inputting the authentication code.

  These numerical values are input by the user operating (pressing) a software key displayed on the touch panel display 182. Specifically, the image forming apparatus 100 displays a virtual numeric keypad on the touch panel display 182 when a numerical value needs to be input. A numerical value is input by the user operating the virtual numeric keypad.

  Referring to FIG. 2, virtual numeric keypad 200 (200 a) displayed on touch panel display 182 includes a plurality of numeric keys 210, a clear key 220, and a “00” key 230. Each key of the virtual numeric keypad 200 is displayed in a background area 240 that is a window, and a display field 250 for displaying a numerical value (number) corresponding to the input key is displayed in the background area 240. The “00” key 230 is a key for continuously inputting zero (“0”). By operating the “00” key 230, two digits can be input by one input operation. That is, by pressing the “00” key 230, an input result similar to that when the “0” key is pressed twice in succession is obtained. The “00” key 230 can be continuously pressed. For example, “20000” is input when the “2” key → the “00” key 230 → the “00” key 230 is continuously pressed. If the maximum number of inputs that can be input is exceeded by continuously pressing the “00” key 230, the input is not possible, and this is notified by an error sound. The “00” key 230 is arranged in an area adjacent to the “0” key.

  In the present embodiment, the control unit 110 determines whether or not a predetermined condition is satisfied when the virtual numeric keypad 200 is displayed. If the condition is satisfied, the “00” key 230 is displayed. Specifically, the “00” key 230 is displayed when the operation mode selected by the user is a predetermined operation mode. That is, the “00” key 230 is switched between display and non-display according to the operation mode selected by the user. More specifically, whether or not to display the “00” key 230 is predetermined for each operation mode, and when a predetermined operation mode for displaying the “00” key 230 is selected, “00” is selected. The virtual numeric keypad 200 (200a) on which the key 230 is displayed is displayed on the touch panel display 182. On the other hand, when an operation mode other than the predetermined operation mode for displaying the “00” key 230 is selected, the virtual numeric keypad 200 (200b) in which the “00” key 230 is not displayed is displayed on the touch panel display 182 as shown in FIG. The In the virtual numeric keypad 200 (200b) in which the “00” key 230 is not displayed, the number of keys to be displayed is reduced, so that the display space of each key is expanded accordingly. Thus, in the present embodiment, the display mode of the virtual numeric keypad 200 is switched according to the selected operation mode.

  The image forming apparatus 100 also has a table format in advance for the correspondence between the operation mode and the display and non-display of the “00” key 230. For example, a key display table 300 as shown in FIG. 4 is stored in the ROM 114, RAM 116 or HDD 118.

  Referring to FIG. 4, in this key display table 300, the copy mode and the magnification setting mode are set to display the “00” key 230, and the FAX mode, margin setting mode, image shift setting mode, and authentication code are displayed. The input mode is set so that the “00” key 230 is not displayed (non-display).

  In the copy mode, since it is possible to perform mass copying, a numerical value with a large number of digits may be input as the number of copies. In the image forming apparatus 100 capable of high-speed printing, the number of copies can be set up to, for example, “99999 copies”. In an image forming apparatus capable of high-speed printing, a numerical value having a large number of digits is often input as the number of copies. In this case, 100 copies, 200 copies, 300 copies to 1000 copies, 2000 copies, 3000 copies to Opportunities to input a large number of good copies such as Therefore, the operability of the input operation is improved by displaying the “00” key 230.

  In the magnification setting mode, the magnification can be set up to about 400 times. In this magnification setting, numerical values that are quite good, such as 200 times, 300 times, and 400 times, are often set. Therefore, the operability of the input operation is improved by displaying the “00” key 230 even in the magnification setting mode.

  In the FAX mode, most of the input numerical values are FAX numbers, so even if the “00” key 230 is displayed, it is predicted that the frequency of use is low. In the FAX mode, the effect obtained by hiding the “00” key 230 is greater than the effect obtained by displaying the “00” key 230. Therefore, in the FAX mode, the “00” key 230 is not displayed.

  In the margin setting mode and the image shift setting mode, the setting is about several tens of millimeters, and the setting of 100 mm or more is relatively small. Therefore, the “00” key is more effective than the effect obtained by displaying the “00” key 230. The effect obtained by hiding 230 is greater. Therefore, the “00” key 230 is not displayed even in the margin setting mode and the image shift setting mode.

  In the authentication code input mode, the authentication code has a numerical value of about four digits, and because of the nature of the authentication code, there are few cases where zero continues continuously, so the “00” key 230 is not displayed.

Software configuration
With reference to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, a control structure of a computer program executed in the image forming apparatus 100 in order to perform numeric keypad display processing and numerical value display processing will be described.

《Numpad display processing》
Referring to FIG. 5, this program determines whether or not the operation mode selected by the user is a predetermined mode, and branches the flow of control according to the determination result in steps S1000 and S1000. When it is determined that the selected operation mode is the predetermined mode, in step S1010 in which the “00” key 230 is displayed and the program is terminated, and in step S1000, the selected operation mode is not the predetermined mode. If it is determined, step S1020 is executed to end the program with the “00” key 230 hidden.

  In step S1000, when any of the various operation modes is selected by the user, the display of the “00” key 230 is switched between non-display with reference to the key display table 300 shown in FIG. That is, the display mode of the virtual numeric keypad 200 is switched according to the operation mode selected by the user. Specifically, it is determined whether the operation mode selected by the user is a copy mode or a magnification setting mode, and it is determined that the operation mode selected by the user is a copy mode or a magnification setting mode. In this case, the “00” key 230 is displayed in step S1010.

  When the copy mode is selected, the initial screen of the copy basic screen 400 shown in FIG. This initial screen is a screen that is first displayed on the touch panel display 182 when the copy mode is selected by the user. Referring to FIG. 7, on the initial screen of copy basic screen 400, function selection area 410 displays various setting keys for changing the settings of various functions in the copy mode. In this embodiment, as various setting keys, a key 410a for switching the color mode, a key 410b for changing the size of the document, a key 410c for changing the size of the recording paper to be used, and the double-sided copy function , A key 410e for changing the copy magnification, a key 410f for changing the copy density, and a key 410g for setting the finishing function are displayed. In the function selection area 410, below the various setting keys 410a to 410g, the change keys 412 and 414 for changing the display style of the various setting keys 410a to 410g and the setting keys 410a to 410g cannot be changed. A key 416 for displaying a list of other functions is displayed.

  In the preview area 420, a virtual numeric keypad 1200 (200a) for inputting the number of copies is displayed. The virtual numeric keypad 1200 includes numeric keys 210 to 0 to 9 and a clear (C) key 220. A “00” key 230 is displayed on the virtual numeric keypad 1200 (200a). Each key of the virtual numeric keypad 1200 is always displayed in the background area 240 that is a window. In the background area 240, a character string “number of copies” indicating the number of copies and a numerical value indicating the set number of copies are further displayed. A numerical value indicating the number of copies is displayed in the display field 250 (250a). On the initial screen, “1” which is a default setting is displayed as a numerical value indicating the number of copies.

  In the action panel area 430, various execution keys for executing the recommended function in the copy mode are displayed. The recommended function is a function that has been selected in combination with the function selected by the user in the past. In the task trigger area 440, a preview key 442, a reset key 444, a monochrome start key 446, a color start key 448, and the like are displayed.

  When the user operates (presses) the key 410e on the initial screen of the copy basic screen 400, the display screen of the touch panel display 182 is switched to the magnification setting screen 500 shown in FIG. Referring to FIG. 8, on this magnification setting screen 500, various scaling keys for setting the copy magnification are displayed. The scaling key includes keys 510 to 516 for reducing or enlarging the original image to a size corresponding to the size of the recording paper when copying on a recording paper having a size different from that of the original. The magnification setting screen 500 further displays a key 520 for setting the copy magnification to an arbitrary magnification. When the user operates (presses) the key 520, a virtual numeric keypad 2200 (200a) for inputting a copy magnification is displayed on the magnification setting screen 500. Similar to the virtual numeric keypad 1200 for inputting the number of copies, the virtual numeric keypad 2200 includes a numeric key 210 from 0 to 9 and a clear (C) key 220. A “00” key 230 is displayed on the virtual numeric keypad 2200. In the background area 240 of the virtual numeric keypad 2200, a display field 250 (250b) for displaying the input numerical value and a button 260 for closing the virtual numeric keypad 2200 are displayed. In the display column 250, a numerical value representing the copy magnification is displayed.

  Referring to FIG. 5 again, if it is determined in step S1000 that the copy mode or the magnification setting mode is not selected (any of the FAX mode, the margin setting mode, the image shift setting mode, and the authentication code input mode is selected by the user). In the case where the "00" key 230 is not displayed, in step S1020.

《Numeric display processing》
Referring to FIG. 6, this program determines whether or not “00” key 230 is displayed, and in step S2000 that branches the flow of control according to the determination result, and in step S2000, “00” key. When it is determined that 230 is displayed, it is determined whether or not the “00” key 230 has been pressed by the user, and the flow of control is branched according to the determination result. In steps S2010 and S2000, “ If it is determined that the “00” key 230 is not displayed, and if it is determined in step S2010 that the “00” key 230 is not pressed by the user, whether or not the numeric key is pressed by the user And step S2020 that branches the control flow according to the determination result.

  The program further accepts the input of the numeric key when it is determined in step S2020 that the numeric key has been pressed by the user, and displays the number (numerical value) corresponding to the pressed numeric key in the display field 250. When it is determined in step S2030 and step S2010 that the “00” key 230 is pressed by the user, the input of the “00” key 230 is accepted, and the number corresponding to the “00” key 230 is displayed. (“00”) is highlighted in the display field 250, and after step S2030 and step S2040, and in step S2020, when it is determined that the number key is not pressed by the user, It is determined whether or not the input has been completed, and the control flow branches according to the determination result. And a S2050.

  If it is determined in step S2050 that the numerical value input has not ended, the control returns to step S2000, and if it is determined that the numerical value input has ended, the program ends. In step S2040, for example, “00” is highlighted by bold display.

[Operation]
With reference to FIGS. 4, 5, and 9, the operation of image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment based on the above-described structure and flowchart will be described.

  When one of a plurality of modes is selected by the user, the selected mode is determined in advance by referring to the key display table 300 shown in FIG. 4 (a mode for displaying the “00” key 230). ) (Step S1000 in FIG. 5). If the selected mode is the copy mode or the magnification setting mode (YES in step S1000), the virtual numeric keypad 200a on which the “00” key 230 is displayed is displayed on the touch panel display 182 (step S1010 in FIG. 5).

  On the other hand, if the selected mode is any one of the FAX mode, the margin setting mode, the image shift setting mode, and the authentication code input mode (NO in step S1000), the virtual numeric keypad 200b on which the “00” key 230 is not displayed is displayed. The information is displayed on the touch panel display 182 (step S1020 in FIG. 5).

  Thus, in the present embodiment, the display and non-display of the “00” key 230 are switched according to the operation mode selected by the user.

  In the mode in which the “00” key 230 is displayed, the operability of numerical input is improved by inputting a numerical value using the “00” key 230. For example, in the copy mode, when setting the number of copies to 20000, “20000” is input by pressing the “00” key 230 twice after the “2” key. At this time, as shown in FIG. 9, the numerical value input using the “00” key 230 is highlighted in the display field 250.

[Effects of the present embodiment]
As is clear from the above description, the following effects can be obtained by using the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment.

  A virtual numeric keypad 200 including a plurality of numeric keys 210 is displayed on the touch panel display 182, and a “00” key for inputting two digits of zero (“0”) depending on whether or not a predetermined condition is satisfied. 230 is switched between display and non-display on the touch panel display 182. Since the “00” key 230 can be switched between display and non-display according to the situation, the display space of the number keys 210 and the like can be expanded by disabling the “00” key 230. On the other hand, by displaying the “00” key 230, the “00” key 230 can input two digits of zero by one input operation. Therefore, the “0” key is operated twice in succession. The number of keystrokes can be reduced as compared to the case of doing so. Thereby, input operation can be improved.

  In particular, in the image forming apparatus 100 capable of high-speed printing, the input number of the settable number of copies is large. Greatly contributes to improved operation. Further, by not displaying the “00” key 230 according to the situation, unnecessary display can be avoided as much as possible when the “00” key 230 is not necessary. Thereby, the confusion of the user who operates the virtual numeric keypad 200 displayed on the touch panel display 182 can be prevented.

  When the operation mode selected by the user is a predetermined operation mode, by displaying the “00” key 230, in that operation mode, by inputting a numerical value using the “00” key 230, Numeric values with many digits can be entered with a small number of keys. Thereby, the operativity of numerical input can be improved effectively.

  In particular, when the “00” key 230 is displayed in the copy mode, the copy number input operation can be improved more effectively. In the copy mode, a large number of copies can be made, so a numerical value with a large number of digits may be input. In particular, in the image forming apparatus 100 capable of high-speed printing, there are many opportunities to input numerical values having a large number of digits. Therefore, when the copy mode is selected by the user, displaying the “00” key 230 can improve the operability of numerical input such as input of the number of copies more effectively.

  In the operation mode in which the “00” key 230 is displayed, when the “00” key 230 is pressed by the user, “00” corresponding to the “00” key 230 is highlighted on the touch panel display 182. By inputting a numerical value using the “00” key 230, the input operation can be improved when inputting a numerical value having a large number of digits. On the other hand, in the input of numerical values having a large number of digits, input errors generally increase. Since the “00” key 230 is often used when inputting a numerical value having a large number of digits, a numerical value (“00”) corresponding to the “00” key 230 is input when inputting a numerical value using the “00” key 230. ) Is emphasized and displayed on the touch panel display 182 so that the user can easily recognize a numerical value having a large number of digits. Thereby, even when inputting a numerical value with a large number of digits, input errors can be reduced. Here, in inputting the number of copies, if an input error occurs when the number of copies is large, the waste of printing cost becomes very large. For this reason, it is possible to effectively reduce wasteful printing costs by reducing input mistakes when inputting numerical values with a large number of digits.

  In addition, since the “00” key 230 is a numeric key for inputting two digits of zero, the input operation is improved more easily when inputting a numerical value such as “100”, “200”, etc. it can.

(Second Embodiment)
The image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment is different from the first embodiment in conditions for switching between display and non-display of the “00” key 230. In the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment, display or non-display of the “00” key 230 is switched depending on whether or not input using the “00” key 230 is possible. Specifically, the “00” key 230 is displayed when the input by the “00” key 230 is possible, and the “00” key is displayed when the input by the “00” key 230 is impossible. 230 is not displayed.

  In the present embodiment, whether or not input using the “00” key 230 is possible is determined based on the number of digits that can be input. The number of digits that can be entered is predetermined according to the mode. Since “0” key 230 is input to input two digits of zero, when the number of digits that can be input is two or less, input using “00” key 230 is not possible. Therefore, in this case, the “00” key 230 is not displayed. On the other hand, when the number of digits that can be entered is 3 digits or more, input by the “00” key 230 is possible. In this case, the “00” key 230 is displayed.

  The hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated. However, in the present embodiment, a key display table 600 shown in FIG. 10 is stored in the ROM 114, RAM 116, or HDD 118 instead of the key display table 300 shown in FIG.

Software configuration
With reference to FIG. 11, a control structure of a computer program executed by the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment in order to perform numeric keypad display processing will be described. Since the control structure of the computer program for performing the numerical value display processing is the same as that of the first embodiment, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

  This program determines whether or not the number of digits that can be input is greater than or equal to a predetermined number when inputting a numerical value with the virtual numeric keypad 200, and branches the flow of control according to the determination result in steps S3000 and S3000. When it is determined that the number of digits that can be input is greater than or equal to the predetermined number of digits, the “00” key 230 is displayed and the program is terminated. In step S3010 and step S3000, the number of digits that can be input is the predetermined number of digits. When it is determined that the number is not more than the number, step S3020 is executed in which the “00” key 230 is hidden and the program is terminated.

  In step S3000, the display of the “00” key 230 is switched between non-display with reference to the key display table 600 shown in FIG. That is, the display mode of the virtual numeric keypad 200 is switched depending on whether the number of digits that can be input is 3 digits or more or 2 digits or less. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the number of digits that can be input is 3 or more. If it is determined that the number of digits that can be input is 3 or more, in step S3010, the “00” key 230 is displayed. On the other hand, if it is determined that the number of digits that can be input is not three digits or more (two digits or less), the “00” key 230 is not displayed in step S3020.

[Operation]
The operation of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment based on the above-described structure and flowchart will be described with reference to FIGS. Note that the operation excluding the numeric keypad display operation is the same as that in the first embodiment. Therefore, detailed description of similar operations will not be repeated.

  In the numerical input mode, the virtual numeric keypad 200 is displayed on the touch panel display 182 (see FIG. 1). Since the number of numerical values that can be entered is determined in advance in each mode, when the virtual numeric keypad 200 is displayed, the image forming apparatus determines whether the number of digits that can be entered is equal to or greater than a predetermined number of digits ( Step S3000 in FIG. 11). If the number of digits that can be input is three digits or more (YES in step S3000), the virtual numeric keypad 200a (see FIG. 2) on which the “00” key 230 is displayed is displayed on the touch panel display 182 (step S3010 in FIG. 11). ). On the other hand, if the number of digits that can be input is two digits or less (NO in step S3000), the virtual numeric keypad 200b (see FIG. 3) in which the “00” key 230 is not displayed is displayed on the touch panel display 182 (step in FIG. 11). S3020).

[Effects of the present embodiment]
As is clear from the above description, the following effects can be obtained by using the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment.

  When an input using the “00” key 230 is possible, the input operation can be facilitated by displaying the “00” key 230. On the other hand, when the input using the “00” key 230 is not possible, the “00” key 230 is hidden, so that the “00” key 230 is displayed even though it is not usable. Can prevent confusion to the user.

  Other effects of the present embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

(Third embodiment)
The image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment is different from the first and second embodiments in the conditions for switching between display and non-display of the “00” key 230. In the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment, whether or not to display the “00” key 230 can be arbitrarily set by a service person, an administrator, or the like. Specifically, for example, it can be set whether or not to display the “00” key 230 from the setting screen 700 displayed on the touch panel display 182 (see FIG. 1).

  Referring to FIG. 12, a check box 710 for setting whether or not to display “00” key 230 is displayed on setting screen 700. When the check box 710 is checked, the “00” key 230 is displayed. That is, the display and non-display of the “00” key 230 are switched depending on whether or not the check box 710 is checked.

  Note that the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

Software configuration
With reference to FIG. 13, a control structure of a computer program executed by the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment in order to perform numeric keypad display processing will be described. Since the control structure of the computer program for performing the numerical value display processing is the same as that of the first embodiment, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

  This program determines whether or not the setting for displaying the “00” key 230 is made, and in step S4000 for branching the flow of control according to the determination result, the “00” key 230 is set in step S4000. When it is determined that the setting for displaying is made, the “00” key 230 is displayed to end the program in step S4010 and the setting for displaying the “00” key 230 in step S4000. If it is determined that the program has not been performed, step S4020 is executed in which the “00” key 230 is hidden and the program is terminated.

  In step S4000, it is determined whether or not the check box 710 is checked on the setting screen 700 shown in FIG. When the check box 710 is checked, it is determined that the “00” key 230 is set to be displayed. When the check box 710 is not checked, the “00” key 230 is displayed. It is determined that the setting for performing is not performed.

[Operation]
With reference to FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 12, and FIG. 13, the operation of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment based on the above-described structure and flowchart will be described. Note that the operation excluding the numeric keypad display operation is the same as that in the first embodiment. Therefore, detailed description of similar operations will not be repeated.

  The usage status of the image forming apparatus differs depending on the installed office environment. For example, if the office where the image forming apparatus is installed is an office that performs a large amount of copying, and the number of copies with a large number of digits is often input, the service person and the administrator can use the setting screen 700 shown in FIG. , “00” key 230 can be displayed. This setting is arbitrary, and the display and non-display of the “00” key 230 can be switched as necessary.

  When the check box 710 on the setting screen 700 is checked, the image forming apparatus determines that the setting for displaying the “00” key 230 has been made (YES in step S4000 in FIG. 13). In this case, when numerical input is necessary, such as input of the number of copies, the virtual numeric keypad 200a (see FIG. 2) on which the “00” key 230 is displayed is displayed on the touch panel display 182 (step S4010 in FIG. 13). On the other hand, when the check box 710 on the setting screen 700 is not checked, the image forming apparatus determines that the setting for displaying the “00” key 230 has not been made (NO in step S4000 in FIG. 13). In this case, when numerical input is necessary, such as input of the number of copies, the virtual numeric keypad 200b (see FIG. 3) in which the “00” key 230 is not displayed is displayed on the touch panel display 182 (step S4020 in FIG. 13).

[Effects of the present embodiment]
As is clear from the above description, the following effects can be obtained by using the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment.

  As described above, depending on the office environment or the like in which the image forming apparatus is installed, the usage status of the image forming apparatus is different. Therefore, for example, by switching the display and non-display of the “00” key 230 according to the usage status of the installation destination, it is possible to improve the input operation and prevent the user from being confused. That is, in an environment where there are many opportunities to input a numerical value with a large number of digits, displaying the “00” key 230 can improve the input operation. On the other hand, in an environment where there are not many opportunities to input numerical values with a large number of digits, the “00” key 230 is hidden, so that the “00” key 230 is displayed even though there are not many opportunities to use it. The user can be prevented from being confused.

  Other effects of the present embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

(Fourth embodiment)
The image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment is different from the first to third embodiments in conditions for switching between display and non-display of the “00” key 230. In the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment, the display and non-display of the “00” key 230 are switched according to the operation status of the “0” key displayed as a part of a normal numeric keypad. Specifically, in the present embodiment, it is learned whether or not the “00” key 230 is in an environment (situation) where the “00” key 230 can be used depending on the operation status of the “0” key, and the “00” key 230 can be used. When it is in the environment (situation), the “00” key 230 is displayed.

  Note that the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

Software configuration
With reference to FIGS. 14 and 15, a control structure of a computer program executed by the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment in order to perform “0” key count processing and numeric keypad display processing will be described. Since the control structure of the computer program for performing the numerical value display processing is the same as that of the first embodiment, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

<< Counting process of "0" key >>
Referring to FIG. 14, this program determines whether or not virtual tenkey 200 is displayed, and waits until virtual tenkey 200 is displayed. In step S5000, virtual tenkey 200 is displayed in step S5000. When it is determined, in the numerical value input using the virtual numeric keypad 200, it is determined whether or not the “0” key is continuously pressed, and the flow of control is branched according to the determination result, step S5010, and step S5010 Step S5020 includes adding “1” to the counter when it is determined that the “0” key is continuously pressed.

  This program further determines whether or not numerical input using the virtual numeric keypad 200 has been completed after step S5020 and when it is determined in step S5010 that the “0” key has not been pressed continuously. It includes step S5030 for determining and branching the flow of control according to the determination result. If it is determined in step S5030 that numeric input using the virtual numeric keypad 200 has not ended, control returns to step S5010, and if it is determined that numeric input using the virtual numeric keypad 200 has ended, The program ends.

  This program counts the number of times the “0” key is continuously pressed. The number of times the “0” key is continuously pressed is counted every predetermined period.

《Numpad display processing》
Referring to FIG. 15, this program determines whether or not the number of times the “0” key is continuously pressed within a predetermined period is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, and the flow of control according to the determination result. If it is determined in steps S6000 and S6000 that the number of times the “0” key is continuously pressed is greater than or equal to the predetermined number, the “00” key 230 is displayed and the program is terminated. In step S6010 and step S6000, when it is determined that the number of times the “0” key is continuously pressed is not equal to or greater than the predetermined number (less than the predetermined number), the “00” key 230 is not displayed. And step S6020 for ending this program.

  When the “00” key 230 is displayed, the input of the “00” key 230 is counted as if the “0” key was continuously pressed in the “0” key counting process described above. .

[Operation]
The operation of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment based on the above-described structure and flowchart will be described with reference to FIGS. Note that the operation excluding the numeric keypad display operation is the same as that in the first embodiment. Therefore, detailed description of similar operations will not be repeated.

  The image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment counts the number of times that the “0” key is continuously pressed by the user when the user inputs a numerical value using the virtual numeric keypad 200. The counted number is counted in a predetermined period (for example, about 2 to 7 days).

  The image forming apparatus determines whether or not the number of times the “0” key has been continuously pressed within a predetermined period is equal to or greater than the predetermined number based on the above-described totaling result (step S6000 in FIG. 15). When the number of times the “0” key is continuously pressed is equal to or greater than the predetermined number, the virtual numeric keypad 200a (see FIG. 2) on which the “00” key 230 is displayed is displayed on the touch panel display 182 (see FIG. 1). (Step S6010 in FIG. 15). On the other hand, when the number of times the “0” key is continuously pressed is less than the predetermined number, the virtual numeric keypad 200b (see FIG. 3) in which the “00” key 230 is not displayed is displayed on the touch panel display 182 (step of FIG. 15). S6020).

[Effects of the present embodiment]
As is clear from the above description, the following effects can be obtained by using the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment.

  By counting the number of times the “0” key is continuously input (pressed), it is possible to know how many usage conditions “0” is continuously input. If the count number within the predetermined period is equal to or greater than the predetermined number, if the “00” key 230 for inputting “0” in two digits is displayed, the “00” key 230 may be used. Expected to be high. For this reason, for example, it can be determined whether or not the “00” key 230 is used at the installation site where the image forming apparatus is installed. In the situation where the “00” key 230 is used, the input operation can be easily improved by displaying the “00” key 230. On the other hand, in a situation where the “00” key 230 is not frequently used, the display space of each key can be expanded by hiding the “00” key 230 and the keys displayed on the touch panel display 182. The confusion of the user who operates a group can be prevented effectively. Thus, according to the present embodiment, for example, the virtual numeric keypad 200 that matches the usage status of the installation destination can be displayed on the touch panel display 182.

  Other effects of the present embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[Modification]
In the above embodiment, an example in which the present invention is applied to an MFP that is an example of an image forming apparatus has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. As long as the touch panel display is provided, the image forming apparatus may be other than the MFP. For example, an image forming apparatus such as a copier or a printer may be used.

  In the said embodiment, although the example which comprised the touchscreen display from the touchscreen integrated liquid crystal display device was shown, this invention is not limited to such embodiment. The display panel constituting the touch panel display may be a display panel other than the liquid crystal display panel (liquid crystal display). Examples of the display panel other than the liquid crystal display panel include a display panel made of an organic EL or the like. Further, the touch panel display may have a configuration in which a display panel and a touch panel are overlapped, or may have a configuration in which a display panel and a touch panel are integrally formed, for example. Any method of input detection in the touch panel display may be used.

  In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the image forming apparatus is a high-speed machine capable of high-speed printing has been described, but the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. The image forming apparatus may be an apparatus other than a high speed machine. The number of copies that can be input may be other than “99999 copies”.

  In the above-described embodiment, an example in which a numerical value (“00”) input with the “00” key is highlighted in bold is shown, but the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. The highlighted display of the numerical value input by the “00” key may be other than the bold display. For example, the numerical value input by the “00” key may be displayed in a different color from the numerical values input by other numerical keys, or may be highlighted by a method such as lighting the numerical value. Furthermore, the numerical value input by the “00” key may be highlighted by highlighting or highlighting. It should be noted that the numerical value input by the “00” key may be a normal display as the numerical values input by other numerical keys.

  As a method for suppressing erroneous input of numerical values (input errors) using the virtual numeric keypad, for example, in addition to numerical value highlighting, a numerical value input after input of a numerical value is read out by voice. When a “00” key is input, A method of ringing may be used. That is, it is possible to make it easy to recognize an erroneous input by hearing or the like other than vision. For example, in the copy mode, when a copy start is performed in a state in which the number of copies equal to or greater than a preset number has been input, a pop-up message is displayed that confirms whether the number of copies is large but printing is allowed. You may do it.

  In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the “00” key is used as a specific key for inputting a plurality of specific numbers is shown, but the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. In addition to the “00” key, for example, a “000” key may be used. Further, display and non-display of both the “00” key and the “000” key may be switched.

  In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the “00” key is not displayed when the “00” key is hidden is shown, but the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. When the “00” key is not displayed, for example, it may be grayed out (displayed in light gray and incapable of input).

  In the above-described embodiment, the key layout, key size, shape, and the like of the other keys of the virtual numeric keypad (for example, numeric keys) may be changed according to whether the “00” key is displayed or not. Good. Furthermore, the background area which is the window of the virtual numeric keypad may be reduced according to the key arrangement, key size and shape, and the like. With this configuration, it is possible to easily suppress an increase in the key arrangement space, so that the virtual numeric keypad can be displayed in a space-saving manner for performing other displays on the touch panel display.

  In the first embodiment, the predetermined operation mode for displaying the “00” key may be changed as appropriate. For example, the “00” key may not be displayed when the magnification setting mode is selected. Also, modes other than those shown in the first embodiment may be determined in advance as predetermined operation modes for displaying the “00” key.

  In the second embodiment, in the numerical value input using the virtual numeric keypad, an example in which the “00” key is displayed when the number of digits of a numerical value (numerical string) that can be input is larger than the number of digits of the “00” key. However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. The display and non-display of the “00” key may be switched depending on whether input using the “00” key is possible. For example, when the input using the “00” key becomes impossible during numerical input, the “00” key may be hidden at that time. Specifically, for example, when it is possible to input up to 10,000 copies, when the number “100” or less is input, the “00” key is displayed and the number “101” or more is input. In some cases, the “00” key may be hidden.

  In the third embodiment, the example in which it is possible to set whether or not to display the “00” key from the setting screen has been described, but the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, it may be configured to set whether to display the “000” key in addition to the “00” key. A specific description will be given with reference to FIGS. 16 and 17. Referring to FIG. 16, whether or not “00” key 260 (see FIG. 17) is displayed on setting screen 800 in addition to check box 710 for setting whether to display “00” key 230 or not. A check box 810 for setting whether or not is displayed. By checking the check box 810, the “000” key 260 is displayed. Referring to FIG. 17, when the check box 810 is checked, a virtual numeric keypad 3200 (200) on which a “000” key 260 is displayed is displayed on a screen that requires numeric input such as the input of the number of copies. Is done.

  In the fourth embodiment, an example in which display and non-display of the “00” key is switched depending on whether or not the number of times the “0” key is continuously pressed within a predetermined period is equal to or greater than the predetermined number of times. However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, the ratio of the number of times the “0” key is continuously input out of the number of times the “0” key is input is calculated, and when the calculated value is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the “00” key is pressed. You may make it display. That is, the display and non-display of the “00” key may be switched depending on whether the calculated ratio is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

  Note that, in the fourth embodiment, the display and non-display of the “00” key may be switched for each operation mode and for each authenticated user. Further, for each operation mode and for each authentication individual, the total result of the ratio of the number of times the “0” key is continuously input out of the number of times the “0” key is input is accumulated and automatically “00”. ”Key display and non-display may be switched.

  In the above embodiment, the specific key for inputting a plurality of specific numbers may be other than the “00” key and the “000” key. In other words, the specific key may be a key for inputting a number other than zero (“0”) as a specific number. For example, a “99” key or the like for inputting “9” in a plurality of digits may be used. In the copy mode, if the maximum number of copies that can be input is, for example, “9999”, and if it is desired to copy a larger number of copies, the maximum number of copies that can be input is input for the time being. In that case, displaying the “99” key can improve the numerical value input operation.

Further, the specific key for inputting a plurality of digits of zero may be other than “00” key and “000” key. Specifically, for example, a key for inputting a plurality of digits of zero by a combination with other numeric keys can be used. Referring to FIG. 18, for example, a “ ^0x ” key 270 is displayed on the virtual numeric keypad 4200 (200) instead of the “00” key. The “0 ^x ” key 270 is a key for continuously inputting zero (“0”) in combination with other numeric keys. After the “ ^0x ” key 270 is input, the number of times that zero (“0”) is to be continuously input is designated by the numeric key. For example, after pressing the "0 ^x" key 270, and presses the "2" key, the entry "00", and presses the "3" key, it is entered as "000". After the “ ^0x ” key 270 is input, only the number keys that can be input among a plurality of number keys are displayed (becomes active). Referring to FIG. 19, when “0 ^x ” key 270 is pressed, for example, “0 ^x ” key 270 is highlighted and becomes a virtual numeric keypad 4200 </ b> A (200) on which input numeric keys are displayed. Since numeric keys that cannot be input are not displayed, confusion for the user is prevented and an easy-to-understand operation is possible.

In the above, a predetermined time after the input of "0 ^x" key 270 is not pressed another key, or, if you close the virtual numeric keypad without pressing another key, so as to be numeric input as "0" Also good. With this configuration, the “0” key can be eliminated, and space can be saved more effectively.

  Note that embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the techniques disclosed above are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

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

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Image forming apparatus 110 Control part 120 Scanner part 130 Image processing part 140 Image forming part 150 User authentication part 160 FAX communication part 170 Network I / F
180 Operation panel 182 Touch panel display 200, 200a, 200b, 1200, 2200 Virtual numeric keypad 230 “00” key 250 Display field 400 Copy basic screen 500 Magnification setting screen 700 Setting screen

Claims (10)

A touch panel display;
In response to an input from the touch panel display, a control means for controlling the operation of the device itself;
Display control means for performing control to display a key group including a plurality of numeric keys on the touch panel display,
The key group further includes a specific key for inputting a plurality of specific numbers,
The display control means includes a switching means for determining whether or not a predetermined condition is satisfied when displaying the key group, and switching between display and non-display of the specific key according to the determination result. , Image forming apparatus.   The image according to claim 1, wherein the switching unit includes a unit that determines whether or not input using the specific key is possible, and switches between display and non-display of the specific key according to a determination result. Forming equipment. The image forming apparatus operates in one operation mode selected by the user from a plurality of operation modes,
The switching means includes means for switching a display mode so that the specific key is displayed on the touch panel display in response to a user's selection of a predetermined operation mode. Image forming apparatus.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the plurality of operation modes include a copy mode, a facsimile mode, and an authentication code input mode.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the switching unit switches the display mode so that the specific key is displayed on the touch panel display in response to at least the copy mode being selected by a user. The image forming apparatus further includes display setting means for setting whether to display the specific key,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the switching unit includes a unit for switching between display and non-display of the specific key according to display setting of the specific key by the display setting unit. A reception unit for receiving an input by the specific key;
In response to acceptance of the input of the specific key by the receiving unit, the display control unit includes highlight display means for highlighting and displaying a plurality of specific numbers corresponding to the specific key on the touch panel display. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising:   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the specific key is a numeric key for inputting two digits of zero. The image forming apparatus further includes a determination unit that counts the number of times that a specific numeric key is continuously input from the touch panel display, and determines whether the count number within a predetermined period is equal to or greater than a predetermined number. Including
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the switching unit includes a unit for switching between display and non-display of the specific key according to a determination result of the determination unit. The specific key is a numeric key for inputting two digits of zero,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the specific numeric key is a numeric key for inputting one digit of zero.

Images