JP5874465B2 - Information processing apparatus, image forming apparatus, information processing apparatus control method, image forming apparatus control method, information processing apparatus control program, and image forming apparatus control program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, an image forming apparatus control method, and an image forming apparatus control program, and in particular, an image forming apparatus that executes a function in accordance with a display icon operation by a user, an image forming apparatus control method, And an image forming apparatus control program.

  As an image forming apparatus (scanner function, facsimile function, copying function, printer function, data communication function, server function, MFP (Multi Function Peripheral), facsimile apparatus, copying machine, printer, etc.), display by the user Some of them perform functions according to icon operations.

  For example, it is assumed that a document is printed in the image forming apparatus. Conventionally, in such a case, a printing method that uses a GUI (graphical user interface) to perform printing in an initial mode by a relatively simple operation is known. The initial mode is a print mode set as a frequently used function. In addition, a printing method is known in which a plurality of functions are combined to enable printing in a desired mode.

  In an image forming apparatus capable of realizing such a printing method, icons for executing functions often used as a standard menu such as a printing function in an initial mode are displayed on the top screen. On the other hand, functions that are used less frequently are displayed on a screen different from the top screen, for example (application setting). However, in such a display method, even when a print job is executed in the initial mode, the user needs to perform an operation after displaying the top screen. There is a problem that it takes.

  Conventionally, an image forming apparatus as disclosed in Patent Document 1 has been proposed for such a problem. That is, in the image forming apparatus described in Patent Document 1, a printing apparatus icon associated with a desired print setting can be registered in advance. By dragging the document to the printing apparatus icon, printing is executed with the initial mode setting or the setting registered in the icon. Note that in the image forming apparatus described in Patent Document 1, a plurality of print settings can be registered for an icon. When an operation is performed on the icon so that the document icon stays for a predetermined time, a plurality of icons corresponding to each print setting are displayed hierarchically.

  Patent Document 2 below discloses an information processing apparatus that is used by being connected to a scanner that reads a document image so that the document image can be easily read by a drag-and-drop operation (printing instruction). . In this information processing apparatus, when a special folder displayed in the folder tree display area in the window screen is selected, an icon corresponding to the document on the scanner is displayed in the document display area in the same screen. When a drag-and-drop operation (print instruction) is performed on this icon with respect to the printer icon, the information processing apparatus first causes the scanner to scan the document. Then, the information processing apparatus acquires the obtained image data and executes printing.

JP 2007-286700 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-316821

  By the way, the following problems may occur in the image forming apparatus described in Patent Document 1 described above. That is, in the image forming apparatus described in Patent Document 1, when executing a print job in the initial mode, the user needs to perform an operation of dragging a document icon to the printing apparatus icon. Therefore, it takes time until this print job is executed. In particular, this problem becomes significant when the printing apparatus icon and the document icon are at opposite corners of the panel. That is, since the distance to drag the document icon becomes long, it takes time to start printing even for a print job for which printing is to be performed immediately.

  In addition, when the drag distance is increased as described above, there is a problem that it may be difficult to complete the drag operation. That is, there is an increased possibility that the user will release his / her finger during the drag operation or the drag may fail due to the accuracy of touch operation detection on the touch panel. In such a case, it is necessary to redo the drag operation.

  Such a problem also occurs in Patent Document 2. That is, in order to perform printing by an intuitive operation, it is necessary to drag and drop an icon corresponding to a document to be printed onto an icon indicating a printer.

  The present invention has been made to solve such problems, and is capable of promptly instructing execution of processing in an initial mode, an image forming apparatus control method, and an image forming apparatus control program. The purpose is to provide.

In order to achieve the above object, according to an aspect of the present invention, an information processing device displays a display unit that displays a display screen, and a data icon indicating data to be processed on the display screen in accordance with a user's drag operation. A first display means for movably displaying; a second display means for displaying a function icon corresponding to a predetermined function on the display screen; and a direction on the display screen by the user. A receiving unit that accepts a drag operation for a data icon, a moving direction detecting unit that detects a moving direction of the data icon by the drag operation, a determining unit that determines a function icon in the detected moving direction, and a determining unit A predetermined process in which a set value is set in advance for the determined function icon is performed before the data icon overlaps the function icon. And a control means for enabling performed on the data indicated by the down.
Preferably, the movement direction detection means includes a first detection means for detecting that the user has performed a drag operation on the data icon, and after the drag operation is detected by the first detection means, a predetermined distance is obtained by the drag operation. A second detection means for detecting the position of the data icon after the movement or the position of the data icon after the movement for a predetermined time by the drag operation, and the data icon before the drag operation is detected by the first detection means And a first calculating means for calculating the moving direction of the data icon based on the position detected by the second detecting means, and the determining means is calculated by the first calculating means. The determination is made based on the moving direction and the position of the function icon.
Preferably, the information processing apparatus further includes a changing unit that changes the display mode of the function icon based on the determination result of the determining unit.
Preferably, the control unit causes the process to be executed when a data icon drop operation is performed by the user after the change by the change unit.
Preferably, the control unit causes the process to be executed when the user performs a flick operation on the data icon after the change by the change unit.
Preferably, the changing means displays an animation for moving the data icon to the function icon when changing the display mode of the function icon.
Preferably, the information processing apparatus further includes a drawing unit that draws a line that associates the data icon with the function icon on the display screen based on the determination result of the determination unit.
Preferably, the control means displays an animation for moving the data icon to the function icon when executing the process.
Preferably, the movement direction detection means includes a third detection means for detecting that the movement direction of the drag operation has changed after the first detection means has detected the drag operation, and detection by the third detection means. A fourth detection means for detecting the position of the data icon after being moved by a predetermined distance after the drag operation or the position of the data icon after being moved for a predetermined time by the drag operation; and a third detection means And a second calculating means for calculating the moving direction of the data icon based on the position of the data icon when the detection is performed and the position detected by the fourth detecting means. The determination is made based on the movement direction calculated by the second calculation means and the position of the function icon.
Preferably, the movement direction detection unit detects a flick operation of the data icon, and detects a flick operation of the flick operation when the flick operation is detected by the flick detection unit. And a determination unit that performs determination based on the flick direction detected by the flick direction detection unit and the position of the function icon.
Preferably, the information processing apparatus further includes a changing unit that changes the display mode of the function icon based on the determination result of the determining unit.
Preferably, the changing means displays an animation for moving the data icon to the function icon when changing the display mode of the function icon.
Preferably, the information processing apparatus further includes a setting unit that sets a setting value used when executing the function in a predetermined execution mode.
Preferably, the control unit causes the predetermined process to be executed when the data icon is dropped after the determination by the determination unit and before the data icon overlaps the function icon.
Preferably, when the data icon is superimposed on the function icon and dropped, the control unit displays a detailed setting screen corresponding to the function icon on the display screen.
Preferably, the function icon corresponds to a print function, and the control unit executes printing based on the initial mode setting value based on the determination result of the determination unit.
Preferably, the function icon corresponds to a facsimile transmission function, and the control unit causes transmission based on the setting value of the initial mode based on the determination result of the determination unit.
Preferably, the function icon corresponds to an information transmission function, and the control unit transmits information to a predetermined transmission destination based on the determination result of the determination unit.
Preferably, the control unit transmits information by a scan-to-me function based on the determination result of the determination unit.
Preferably, the function icon corresponds to an information storage function, and the control unit stores information in a predetermined storage area based on the determination result of the determination unit.
Preferably, the function icon is a program registered with respect to the set value, and the control means causes the function corresponding to the function icon to be executed with the set value registered in the program based on the determination result of the determination means. The detailed setting screen is displayed with the setting values registered in the program being reflected.

According to another aspect of the present invention, an image forming apparatus includes: a display unit that displays a display screen; and a first display unit that displays a document icon on the display screen so as to be movable according to a user's drag operation. Second display means for displaying a function icon corresponding to a predetermined function on the display screen; reception means for receiving an operation on the document icon performed by the user with directionality on the display screen; When the operation is performed by the means, the operation associates the document icon with the function icon based on the position of the document icon on the display screen, the position of the function icon on the display screen, and the directionality of the operation received by the receiving means. A determination means for determining whether or not the document is an object, and the operation causes the document icon to be close to the function icon on the display screen. Prior to this, based on the determination result of the determination means, the function corresponding to the function icon causes the processing corresponding to the information corresponding to the document icon to be executed in a predetermined execution mode, and the document icon is dropped on the function icon. And a third display means for displaying a detailed setting screen corresponding to the function icon on the display screen. The function icon corresponds to the printing function. The detailed setting screen is a setting screen related to the printing function. Yes, the executing unit executes printing based on the setting value of the initial mode based on the determination result of the determining unit.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, an image forming apparatus includes a display unit that displays a display screen, and a first display unit that displays a document icon on the display screen so as to be movable according to a user's drag operation. A second display unit that displays a function icon corresponding to a predetermined function on the display screen; a reception unit that accepts an operation on the document icon performed by the user with directionality on the display screen; When the operation is performed by the receiving unit, the operation sets the original icon and the function icon based on the position of the original icon on the display screen, the position of the function icon on the display screen, and the directionality of the operation received by the receiving unit. A determination unit that determines whether or not the document icon is associated with the document icon, and a manuscript icon that approaches the function icon on the display screen when the operation is performed Before executing the processing, a function corresponding to the function icon is used to execute processing for information corresponding to the document icon in a predetermined execution mode based on the determination result of the determination unit, and the document icon is converted into the function icon. And a third display means for displaying a detailed setting screen corresponding to the function icon on the display screen when dropped, the function icon corresponding to the information transmission function, and the detailed setting screen for information transmission It is a transmission destination selection screen, and the execution means transmits information to a predetermined transmission destination based on the determination result of the determination means.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, an image forming apparatus includes a display unit that displays a display screen, and a first display unit that displays a document icon on the display screen so as to be movable according to a user's drag operation. A second display unit that displays a function icon corresponding to a predetermined function on the display screen; a reception unit that accepts an operation on the document icon performed by the user with directionality on the display screen; When the operation is performed by the receiving unit, the operation sets the original icon and the function icon based on the position of the original icon on the display screen, the position of the function icon on the display screen, and the directionality of the operation received by the receiving unit. A determination unit that determines whether or not the document icon is associated with the document icon, and a manuscript icon that approaches the function icon on the display screen when the operation is performed Before executing the processing, a function corresponding to the function icon is used to execute processing for information corresponding to the document icon in a predetermined execution mode based on the determination result of the determination unit, and the document icon is converted into the function icon. And a third display means for displaying a detailed setting screen corresponding to the function icon on the display screen when dropped, the function icon corresponding to the information storage function, and the detailed setting screen selecting the storage area The execution means stores information in a predetermined storage area based on the determination result of the determination means.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, a method for controlling an information processing apparatus including a display unit that displays a display screen displays a data icon indicating data to be processed on the display screen according to a user's drag operation. A first display step for movably displaying, a second display step for displaying a function icon corresponding to a predetermined function on the display screen, and data performed by the user with directionality on the display screen The determination step includes a reception step for accepting a drag operation on the icon, a movement direction detection step for detecting a movement direction in which the data icon is moved by the drag operation, a determination step for determining a function icon in the detected movement direction, and a determination step Data icon is used as a function icon for a predetermined process in which setting values are set in advance for the function icon. Before, and a control step for enabling performed on the data indicated by the data icon.
  Preferably, the movement direction detection step includes a first detection step for detecting that the user has performed a drag operation on the data icon, and a drag operation after the drag operation is detected by the first detection step, and then a predetermined distance by the drag operation. A second detection step of detecting the position of the data icon after being moved by a predetermined time or the position of the data icon after being moved for a predetermined time by the drag operation, and the data icon before the drag operation is detected by the first detection step And a first calculation step for calculating the moving direction of the data icon based on the position detected by the second detection step, and the determination step is calculated by the first calculation step. The determination is made based on the moving direction and the position of the function icon.
  Preferably, the control method of the information processing apparatus further includes a change step of changing the display mode of the function icon based on the determination result of the determination step.
  Preferably, the control step causes the process to be executed when a data icon drop operation is performed by the user after the change in the change step.
  Preferably, the control step causes the process to be executed when the user performs a flick operation on the data icon after the change in the change step.
  Preferably, the changing step displays an animation for moving the data icon to the function icon when the display mode of the function icon is changed.
  Preferably, the control method of the information processing apparatus further includes a drawing step of drawing a line for associating the data icon and the function icon on the display screen based on the determination result of the determination step.
  Preferably, the control step displays an animation for moving the data icon to the function icon when executing the process.
  Preferably, the moving direction detecting step includes a third detecting step for detecting that the moving direction of the drag operation has changed after the drag operation is detected by the first detecting step, and detection by the third detecting step. A fourth detection step for detecting the position of the data icon after being moved by a predetermined distance after the drag operation or the position of the data icon after being moved for a predetermined time by the drag operation; And a second calculation step for calculating a moving direction of the data icon based on the position of the data icon when the detection is performed and the position detected by the fourth detection step. The determination is performed based on the movement direction calculated in the second calculation step and the position of the function icon.
  Preferably, the moving direction detecting step detects a flick operation for detecting that the flick operation by the user has been performed on the data icon, and detects the flick direction of the flick operation when the flick operation is detected by the flick detection step. A determination step based on the flick direction detected by the flick direction detection step and the position of the function icon.
  Preferably, the control method of the information processing apparatus further includes a change step of changing the display mode of the function icon based on the determination result of the determination step.
  Preferably, the changing step displays an animation for moving the data icon to the function icon when the display mode of the function icon is changed.
  Preferably, the control method of the information processing apparatus further includes a setting step for setting a setting value used when executing the function in the predetermined execution mode.
  Preferably, the control step causes the predetermined process to be executed when the data icon is dropped after the determination in the determination step and before the data icon overlaps the function icon.
  Preferably, the control step displays a detailed setting screen corresponding to the function icon on the display screen when the data icon is superimposed on the function icon and is dropped.
  Preferably, the function icon corresponds to a printing function, and the control step causes printing based on the setting value of the initial mode based on the determination result of the determination step.
  Preferably, the function icon corresponds to a facsimile transmission function, and the control step causes transmission based on the setting value of the initial mode based on the determination result of the determination step.
  Preferably, the function icon corresponds to an information transmission function, and the control step transmits information to a predetermined transmission destination based on the determination result of the determination step.
  Preferably, the control step transmits information by a scan-to-me function based on the determination result of the determination step.
  Preferably, the function icon corresponds to an information storage function, and the control step stores information in a predetermined storage area based on the determination result of the determination step.
  Preferably, the function icon is a program registered for the set value, and the control step causes the function corresponding to the function icon to be executed with the set value registered in the program based on the determination result of the determination step. The detailed setting screen is displayed with the setting values registered in the program being reflected.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, a method for controlling an image forming apparatus including a display unit that displays a display screen is configured to display a document icon on a display screen so as to be movable according to a user's drag operation. A display step, a second display step for displaying a function icon corresponding to a predetermined function on the display screen, and a reception for accepting an operation on the document icon performed by the user with directionality on the display screen When the operation is performed in the step and the reception step, the operation is performed based on the position of the document icon on the display screen, the position of the function icon on the display screen, and the direction of the operation received in the reception step. A determination step for determining whether or not an icon is associated with the icon, and an operation is performed to display the display screen. An execution step of executing processing for information corresponding to the document icon in a predetermined execution mode by the function corresponding to the function icon based on the determination result of the determination step before the document icon approaches the function icon. And a third display step for displaying a detailed setting screen corresponding to the function icon on the display screen when the document icon is dropped on the function icon. The function icon corresponds to the print function, The setting screen is a setting screen related to the print function, and the execution step executes printing based on the setting value of the initial mode based on the determination result of the determination step.
According to still another aspect of the present invention, a method for controlling an image forming apparatus including a display unit that displays a display screen is configured to display a document icon on a display screen so as to be movable according to a user's drag operation. A display step, a second display step for displaying a function icon corresponding to a predetermined function on the display screen, and a reception for accepting an operation on the document icon performed by the user with directionality on the display screen When the operation is performed in the step and the reception step, the operation is performed based on the position of the document icon on the display screen, the position of the function icon on the display screen, and the direction of the operation received in the reception step. A determination step for determining whether or not an icon is associated with the icon, and an operation is performed to display the display screen. An execution step of executing processing for information corresponding to the document icon in a predetermined execution mode by the function corresponding to the function icon based on the determination result of the determination step before the document icon approaches the function icon. And a third display step for displaying a detailed setting screen corresponding to the function icon on the display screen when the document icon is dropped on the function icon, the function icon corresponding to the information transmission function, The detailed setting screen is a transmission destination selection screen for information transmission, and the execution step transmits information to a predetermined transmission destination based on the determination result of the determination step.
According to still another aspect of the present invention, a method for controlling an image forming apparatus including a display unit that displays a display screen is configured to display a document icon on a display screen so as to be movable according to a user's drag operation. A display step, a second display step for displaying a function icon corresponding to a predetermined function on the display screen, and a reception for accepting an operation on the document icon performed by the user with directionality on the display screen When the operation is performed in the step and the reception step, the operation is performed based on the position of the document icon on the display screen, the position of the function icon on the display screen, and the direction of the operation received in the reception step. A determination step for determining whether or not an icon is associated with the icon, and an operation is performed to display the display screen. An execution step of executing processing for information corresponding to the document icon in a predetermined execution mode by the function corresponding to the function icon based on the determination result of the determination step before the document icon approaches the function icon. And a third display step for displaying a detailed setting screen corresponding to the function icon on the display screen when the document icon is dropped on the function icon. The function icon corresponds to the information storage function. The detail setting screen is a storage area selection screen, and the execution step stores information in a predetermined storage area based on the determination result of the determination step.

If the further another situation of this invention is followed, the control program of information processing apparatus will make a computer perform the control method of any one information processing apparatus mentioned above.
According to still another aspect of the present invention, a control program for an image forming apparatus causes a computer to execute any one of the above-described control methods for an image forming apparatus .

  According to these inventions, processing for information corresponding to a document icon can be executed in a predetermined execution mode by a function corresponding to the function icon before the document icon comes close to the function icon on the display screen. . Therefore, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus capable of promptly instructing execution of processing in the initial mode, a control method for the image forming apparatus, and a control program for the image forming apparatus.

1 is a perspective view showing an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 1. FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the display screen displayed on a display panel. 6 is a flowchart for explaining an example of an operation performed in the image forming apparatus 1 when an operation of a document icon is performed. FIG. 10 is a first diagram illustrating a drag operation of a document icon. FIG. 10 is a second diagram for explaining a drag operation of a document icon. It is a figure explaining the example of a change of the display mode of a function icon. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a relationship between an operation using an image forming apparatus and a display screen according to a second embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the detailed setting screen regarding a printing function. 10 is a first flowchart for explaining an example of an operation performed in the image forming apparatus 1 when an operation of a document icon is performed in the second embodiment. 10 is a second flowchart for explaining an example of an operation performed in the image forming apparatus 1 when an operation of a document icon is performed in the second embodiment. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation of the image forming apparatus when a document icon is dropped onto a transmission icon. FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the transmission destination selection screen regarding an information transmission function. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of an operation of the image forming apparatus 1 when a document icon is dropped on a BOX icon. It is a figure which shows an example of the storage area selection screen regarding the information storage function to BOX. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a relationship between an operation using an image forming apparatus according to a third embodiment and a display screen. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the image forming apparatus 1 when a document icon flick operation is performed in the fourth embodiment. It is a figure explaining an example of the relationship between operation using the image forming apparatus in 4th Embodiment, and a display screen.

  Hereinafter, an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  The image forming apparatus is an MFP (Multi Function Peripheral) having a scanner function, a copying function, a printer function, a facsimile function, a data communication function, and a server function. The scanner function is a function for reading an image of a set original and storing it in an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or the like. The copying function is a function of printing (printing) it on paper or the like. The function as a printer is a function for printing on a sheet based on an instruction received from an external terminal such as a PC. The facsimile function is a function for receiving facsimile data from an external facsimile machine or the like and storing it in an HDD or the like. The data communication function is a function for transmitting / receiving data to / from a connected external device. The server function is a function that allows a plurality of users to share data stored in the HDD or the like.

  [First Embodiment]

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 1 includes a paper feed cassette 3, a paper discharge tray 5, an operation unit 11, a CPU 20, an image forming unit 30, and an image reading unit 40. The CPU 20 controls the operation of the image forming apparatus 1. The CPU 20, the image forming unit 30, the image reading unit 40, and the like are arranged inside the housing of the image forming apparatus 1.

  The image forming apparatus 1 has three paper feed cassettes 3 (paper feed cassettes 3a, 3b, 3c). Each paper feed cassette 3 is loaded with, for example, different sizes of paper (B5 size, A4 size, A3 size, etc.). The paper feed cassette 3 is disposed in the lower part of the image forming apparatus 1 so as to be detachable from the housing of the image forming apparatus 1. The paper loaded in each paper feed cassette 3 is fed one by one from the paper feed cassette 3 and sent to the image forming unit 30 at the time of printing. Note that the number of paper feed cassettes 3 is not limited to three, and may be more or less.

  The paper discharge tray 5 is disposed above the portion of the housing of the image forming apparatus 1 where the image forming unit 30 is stored and below the portion where the image reading unit 40 is disposed. The paper on which the image is formed by the image forming unit 30 is discharged from the inside of the housing to the paper discharge tray 5.

  The operation unit 11 is disposed on the upper front side (front side in the drawing) of the image forming apparatus 1. The operation unit 11 includes a plurality of operation buttons 11a that can be pressed by the user. The operation unit 11 is provided with a display panel (an example of a display unit) 13 that displays information to the user.

  The display panel 13 is a touch panel. The display panel 13 is, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display). The display panel 13 displays a guidance screen for the user or displays an operation button to accept a touch operation from the user. The display panel 13 is controlled by the screen control unit 17 under the control of the CPU 20, and displays such a display screen (an example is shown in FIG. 3). The operation unit 11 accepts an operation input made by the user to the operation buttons 11 a and the display panel 13. When the operation button 11 a or the display panel 13 is operated by the user, the operation unit 11 transmits an operation signal or a predetermined command corresponding to the operation to the CPU 20. That is, the user can cause the image forming apparatus 1 to execute various operations by operating the operation buttons 11 a and the display panel 13.

  The image forming unit 30 roughly includes a toner image forming unit (not shown), a paper transport unit (not shown), and a fixing device (not shown). The image forming unit 30 forms an image on a sheet by, for example, electrophotography.

  The paper transport unit includes a paper feed roller, a transport solar, and a motor that drives them. The paper transport unit feeds paper from the paper feed cassette 3 and transports it inside the housing of the image forming apparatus 1. Further, the paper transport unit discharges the paper on which the image is formed from the housing of the image forming apparatus 1 to the paper discharge tray 5 or the like.

  The fixing device has a heating roller and a pressure roller. The fixing device conveys the sheet on which the toner image is formed between the heating roller and the pressure roller, and heats and presses the sheet. As a result, the fixing device melts the toner adhering to the paper and fixes it on the paper to form an image on the paper.

  The image reading unit 40 is disposed on the upper part of the housing of the image forming apparatus 1. The image reading unit 40 includes an ADF (Auto Document Feeder) 41. The image reading unit 40 performs the above-described scanner function. The image reading unit 40 scans a document placed on a transparent document table with a contact image sensor and reads it as image data. The image reading unit 40 reads a plurality of documents set on the document tray one by one by the ADF 41 and reads the document by the contact image sensor to obtain image data.

  The image read by the image reading unit 40 is converted into a finished image by the CPU 20. The CPU 20 can transmit the generated finished image to an external device or the like, or can form an image on a sheet by the image forming unit 30 based on the finished image.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 1.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the image forming apparatus 1 includes a ROM 23, a RAM 25, and a nonvolatile memory 27 in addition to the above-described units.

  The nonvolatile memory 27 is, for example, a flash memory or an HDD. The nonvolatile memory 27 is used as an auxiliary storage device. That is, the nonvolatile memory 27 stores print job data transmitted from an external device connected to the image forming apparatus 1, image data read by the image reading unit 40, and the like. The nonvolatile memory 27 stores setting information of the image forming apparatus 1 and a control program 27a for performing various operations of the image forming apparatus 1. The CPU 20 can control the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 by reading the control program 27a from the nonvolatile memory 27 and executing the control program 27a.

  The ROM 23 is, for example, a flash ROM (Flash Memory). The ROM 23 stores data used when the image forming apparatus 1 operates. Like the nonvolatile memory 27, the ROM 23 may store various control programs, function setting data of the image forming apparatus 1, and the like. The CPU 20 reads data from the ROM 23 and writes data to the ROM 23. The ROM 23 may be non-rewritable.

  The RAM 25 is a main memory of the CPU 20. The RAM 25 is used to store data necessary for the CPU 20 to execute the control program 27a.

  The CPU 20 is connected to each part of the image forming apparatus 1 so as to be able to send and receive signals. The CPU 20 controls various operations of the image forming apparatus 1 by executing a control program 27a or the like stored in the ROM 23, the RAM 25, the nonvolatile memory 27, or the like. When an operation signal is sent from the operation unit 11 or an operation command is transmitted from an external device connected to the image forming apparatus 1, the CPU 20 executes a predetermined control program 27 a in response thereto. Thereby, a predetermined function of the image forming apparatus 1 is executed in accordance with the operation of the operation unit 11 by the user.

  For example, the CPU 20 also functions as an image processing unit that adjusts the character width of image data and performs contrast and color arrangement conversion. Note that the image processing unit may be provided separately from the CPU 20 itself.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the image forming apparatus 1 further includes a screen control unit 17, a communication unit 50, an authentication management unit 80, and the like.

  The screen control unit 17 controls display on the display panel 13. The screen control unit 17 performs processing for acquiring a display screen to be displayed on the display panel 13. That is, the screen control unit 17 reads, for example, an image prepared in advance and stored in the nonvolatile memory 27, the ROM 23, or the like, and displays the image on the display panel 13, or generates a display screen and displays it on the display panel 13. .

  The communication unit 50 is configured to be able to perform, for example, wireless communication or wired communication using a predetermined method with an external terminal. At this time, the communication unit 50 can perform communication of data (document data, image data, etc.) in a state where a connection is established between the external terminal and the image forming apparatus 1. When the connection is not established, data communication cannot be performed between the two.

  The authentication management unit 80 performs user authentication for the image forming apparatus 1. The user authentication is a job for identifying and authenticating a user who uses the image forming apparatus 1. The user can log in to the image forming apparatus 1 and use the image forming apparatus 1 through authentication by user authentication.

  For user authentication, for example, an authentication database (not shown) stored in the nonvolatile memory 27 is used. In the authentication database, user information that can be authenticated and authentication information necessary for the user authentication are recorded in association with each other. The authentication information is, for example, a password set for each user. In the authentication database, information related to the function permitted to be executed for each user is recorded in association with the user.

  User authentication is performed as follows, for example. That is, first, a user authentication screen is presented to the user. The user authentication screen is displayed on the display panel 13. The user operates the operation unit 11 to input information about the user (such as an account name) and a password to the image forming apparatus 1. When these pieces of information are input to the operation unit 11, the CPU 20 refers to the authentication database and determines whether or not the user can be authenticated based on the input data. If the authentication is possible, the CPU 20 determines that the user is authenticated, and enables the function that is permitted to be executed for the authenticated user who is authenticated. At this time, the authenticated user is logged in to the image forming apparatus 1. Thereby, the image forming apparatus 1 can identify a user who uses the image forming apparatus 1.

  By performing user authentication and identifying the user, the display of the display panel 13 and available functions are adapted to the authenticated user, and the convenience of the image forming apparatus 1 can be improved. In addition, when the authenticated user is near the image forming apparatus 1, a high security effect can be obtained such that a printed matter can be output without touching the eyes of other users.

  In the image forming apparatus 1, the CPU 20 manages the user's authority to use the functions of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the user identified by the user authentication. By managing the use authority, it is possible to restrict the use of a predetermined function such as a print execution operation described later for each user, and a high security effect can be obtained.

  Note that the user authentication method is not limited to the above, and a known method can be adopted as appropriate. The reference destination of authentication information, the subject performing authentication, and the like may be different from those described above. For example, the image forming apparatus 1 itself has authentication information for performing user authentication, and the image forming apparatus 1 may accept an authentication request from the user and authenticate the user based on the authentication information. . In addition, for example, a card authentication method using a contact / non-contact ID card or a biometric authentication method using user's fingerprint information or vein information, etc. is used to input information such as account name and password to the user. May not be required. The authentication database may be managed by a server (not shown) provided separately from the image forming apparatus 1.

  In the present embodiment, a plurality of BOXes are set in the nonvolatile memory 27 as data storage locations. The BOX is a storage area set in association with individual users, a group of predetermined users, or the like. Each BOX can store a plurality of data. For example, the CPU 20 stores, in the BOX, job data transmitted from the outside, image data read by the image reading unit 40, and the like. As a result, the data can be classified and organized and stored in the nonvolatile memory 27. Further, the CPU 20 performs access restriction according to the presence or absence of authentication for each BOX. Thereby, the security of the data stored in the BOX can be ensured. Furthermore, the CPU 20 can move and copy data between BOXes. The read image data is converted into an application data format by the CPU 20 and stored in a BOX or the like.

  The CPU 20 can execute processing based on a predetermined function on image data (original) stored in a BOX or the like. In the present embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 is provided with various functions such as printing, FAX, transmission, BOX, and program, and printing, transmission, and data movement can be performed on a document. Such processing can be executed by performing an operation of selecting a document image in the BOX as will be described later, for example.

  Here, the operation unit 11 is provided with an operation position detection unit 15. When the user operates the display panel 13, the operation position detection unit 15 detects a position where the operation input is performed on the display panel 13. The operation position detection unit 15 can detect, for example, a position touched by the user's fingertip on the display panel 13 as the user's operation position. The CPU 20 can perform control according to the user's operation position detected by the operation position detection unit 15.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen displayed on the display panel 13.

  As shown in FIG. 3, for example, a display screen 501 for operating the image forming apparatus 1 is displayed on the display panel 13. The display screen 501 is roughly provided with a document icon area 510 and a function icon area 520. The document icon area 510 is arranged on the left side of the display screen 501. On the other hand, the function icon area 520 is arranged on the right side of the display screen 501.

  In the document icon area 510, for example, the contents of one of the BOX (box A in FIG. 3) are displayed. The contents of the BOX are displayed as icons. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 3, four document icons 511, 512, 513, and 514 are displayed. Each of the document icons 511 to 514 corresponds to document 1, document 2, document 3, document 4 respectively. Here, the documents 1 to 4 are, for example, text data, image data, PDF (Portable Document Format) data, or other application data format data. The image forming apparatus 1 can perform printing or the like on these types of documents.

  In the function icon area 520, five function icons 521 to 525 are displayed. That is, the print icon 521, the facsimile icon 522, the transmission icon 523, the BOX icon 524, and the program icon 525. The print icon 521 corresponds to the print function (function as a printer) of the image forming apparatus 1. The facsimile icon 522 corresponds to the facsimile function of the image forming apparatus 1. The transmission icon 523 corresponds to the transmission function (information transmission function) of the image forming apparatus 1. The BOX icon 524 corresponds to the storage function in the BOX of the image forming apparatus 1. The program icon 525 corresponds to the registration program function of the image forming apparatus 1.

  By operating each of the document icons 511 to 514 displayed on the display screen 501, the user can cause the image forming apparatus 1 to execute processing for the document corresponding to the operated document icons 511 to 514. Further, the user can cause the image forming apparatus 1 to execute a function corresponding to the operated function icon 521 to 525 by operating each of the function icons 521 to 525. The user can perform these operations by touching the display panel 13 (touch operation).

  Here, the document icons 511 to 514 are displayed so as to be movable on the display screen 501 in accordance with the user's drag operation. That is, when the user points to the document icons 511 to 514 and moves the pointed position on the display screen 501 (drag operation), the pointed document icons 511 to 514 move to the positions pointed to by the user. . In other words, the document icons 511 to 514 pointed to by the user move on the display screen 501 following the change in the position pointed to by the user.

  The user can perform an operation with directionality such as a drag operation or a flick operation or a drop operation on the document icons 511 to 514 toward the function icons 521 to 525. When such an operation is performed, the image forming apparatus 1 performs processing on the document corresponding to the operated document icons 511 to 514. The process is performed according to the operation mode performed by the user. When the user performs an operation with the above directionality, the process is performed according to the directionality of the operation performed by the user, the positions of the function icons 521 to 525, and the like.

  These processes are realized, for example, by the CPU 20 executing the control program 27a and controlling each unit of the image forming apparatus 1. The operation of the image forming apparatus 1 performed at that time will be described below assuming that, for example, the document icon 511 among the document icons 511 to 514 is operated by the user.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation performed in the image forming apparatus 1 when the document icon 511 is operated.

  As shown in FIG. 4, when the document icon 511 is pressed in step S101, a drag operation is started. The CPU 20 detects and accepts that the user has performed the drag operation.

  In step S <b> 102, the CPU 20 acquires the position X of the operated document icon 511. The position X is the position of the document icon 511 before the drag operation is detected. The position X is a position on the display screen 501 and is shown as, for example, two-dimensional coordinates.

  In step S103, the CPU 20 determines whether or not the document icon 511 has moved by a predetermined distance by continuing the drag operation. In the present embodiment, for example, when the document icon 511 is separated from the position X by a predetermined distance, the CPU 20 determines that it has moved by a predetermined distance. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the CPU 20 may determine that the document icon 511 has moved by a predetermined distance when the distance of the movement locus of the document icon 511 reaches a predetermined distance.

  If it is determined in step S103 that it has moved by a predetermined distance, the process of step S104 is performed. In step S104, the CPU 20 acquires the position Y of the document icon 511 at that time. That is, the CPU 20 acquires the position Y of the document icon 511 after moving by a predetermined distance by a drag operation.

  In step S <b> 105, the CPU 20 calculates the moving direction of the document icon 511 using the acquired position X and position Y.

  In step S <b> 106, for example, the CPU 20 determines whether there is any of the function icons 521 to 525 on the calculated moving direction, starting from the original position X of the document icon 511 as the starting point. When the function icons 521 to 525 are present in the moving direction, the CPU 20 can determine that the user's drag operation associates the function icons 521 to 525 with the document icon 511. This determination is made based on the position of the document icon 511 on the display screen 501, the position of the function icons 521 to 525 on the display screen, and the direction of the user's drag operation.

  If there is no function icon 521-525 in step S106, CPU20 complete | finishes a series of processes so far. At this time, if the operation by the user is continuously performed, the CPU 20 accepts the subsequent operation on the assumption that the drag operation for the document icon 511 is continuously performed. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the CPU 20 may determine that the drag operation has been canceled regardless of whether or not the operation by the user is continuously performed.

  On the other hand, if any of the function icons 521 to 525 is present in step S106, the CPU 20 changes the display mode of the function icons 521 to 525 in step S107. The display mode is changed, for example, so that the user can see and grasp the display screen 501. Details of the display mode change will be described later.

  In step S <b> 108, the CPU 20 determines whether or not a drop operation (an operation for releasing the document icon 511) has been performed on the document icon 511. The CPU 20 stands by until a drop operation is performed.

  When it is detected in step S108 that the drop operation has been performed, in step S109, the CPU 20 uses the function corresponding to the function icons 521 to 525 whose display mode has been changed in step S107 to determine the document corresponding to the document icon 511. Execute the process.

  At this time, the CPU 20 executes processing for the document corresponding to the document icon 511 in the initial mode for the function icons 521 to 525 corresponding to the function to be executed. The initial mode is an execution mode set for the function icons 521 to 525 in advance. For example, regarding the printing function, setting values relating to setting items such as whether color printing or monochrome printing, paper size, toner density, and the like can be set for the execution mode. The initial mode is, for example, an execution mode in which standard setting values are set for these setting items. Note that the initial mode may be changed by the user as appropriate.

  Thus, when the document corresponding to the document icon 511 is processed by the function corresponding to the function icons 521 to 525, a series of operations after the drag operation of the document icon 511 is completed. By continuously performing the drag operation, the document icon comes close to the function icon on the display screen 501 (for example, the document icon 511 overlaps one of the function icons 521 to 525 on the display screen 501, or the distance between each other increases. This process is performed before the state is very close.

  FIG. 5 is a first diagram for explaining the drag operation of the document icon 511.

  In FIG. 5, it is assumed that only the document icon 511 is displayed in the document icon area 510. In FIG. 5, the shape of the user's hand indicates the user's operation position (pressed position after pressing the document icon 511).

  Assume that the user performs a drag operation on document icon 511. At this time, the position of the document icon 511 moves as the user's operation position changes. For example, when the user performs a drag operation from the operation position 530 to the operation position 531, the document icon 511 moves to a position indicated as the document icon 511 a.

  Here, when the user performs a drag operation from the operation position 530 (position X) to an operation position 531 (position Y) that is a predetermined distance D1, the CPU 20 calculates the direction of the drag operation. Then, the CPU 20 determines whether or not the function icons 521 to 525 are located in the operation direction of the drag operation.

  FIG. 6 is a second diagram for explaining the drag operation of the document icon 511.

  When it is determined that the function icons 521 to 525 are positioned in the operation direction of the drag operation, the display mode of the function icons 521 to 525 is changed. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 5, the print icon 521 is located in the user operation direction. At this time, as shown in FIG. 6, the print icon 521 is displayed as a print icon 521 a slightly enlarged from the normal time. As a result, the print icon 521a is displayed so that its presence is emphasized.

  In this embodiment, when it is determined that function icons 521 to 525 are positioned in the operation direction of the drag operation, CPU 20 draws line 541 that associates document icon 511 with function icon 521 on display screen 501. . A line 541 that associates the document icon 511 with the print icon 521 is displayed on the display screen 501. A line 541 indicates the operation direction of the user. The user can easily confirm that the operation direction of the drag operation is the direction toward the print icon 521 by looking at the line 541.

  For example, the line 541 is a dotted line. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the operation direction and the correspondence between the document icon 511 and the print icon 521 may be indicated by an arrow or a solid line.

  When the directionality of the user's operation is calculated, the line 541 may be displayed regardless of whether the function icons 521 to 525 are positioned in the user's operation direction. The user can easily confirm the operation direction of the drag operation by looking at the line 541.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram for describing a modification example of the display mode of the function icons 521 to 525.

  Note that the change of the display mode of the function icons 521 to 525 is not limited to that performed by enlarging the icons as described above. For example, when the print icon 521 is positioned in the user's operation direction as shown in FIG. 5, the print icon 521 has a display icon whose display color is slightly changed from that in the normal state as shown in FIG. It may be displayed as 521b. By changing such a display color, it is possible to display so that the presence of the print icon 521b is emphasized. Accordingly, the user can easily recognize that the print icon 521 is present in the operation direction of the drag operation.

  For example, when the user performs a drag operation so that the print icon 521 is positioned in the operation direction with respect to the document icon 511, the display mode of the print icon 521 associated with the document icon 511 is changed in this way, 541 is displayed. When this is confirmed on the display screen 501, the user performs a drop operation of the document icon 511. When the drop operation is performed, the print function of the print icon 521 associated with the document icon 511 at that time is executed for the document information corresponding to the document icon 511. The print function is executed in the initial mode of the print function. For example, when the printing function is set to perform duplex printing and so-called 2-in-1 printing as the initial mode, the original is duplex-printed at so-called 2-in-1 when the print job is executed.

  Note that the user sets a setting value used when executing a function in a predetermined execution mode (print function execution mode, facsimile function execution mode,..., Etc.) by performing a predetermined input on the display screen. be able to. For example, the user can set the print function to perform single-sided printing and print one page on one sheet as the initial mode when double-sided printing and 2-in-1 printing are set as the initial mode. .

  As described above, in the first embodiment, the user performs a drag operation on the document icons 511 to 514 to be processed toward the function icons 521 to 525 corresponding to a desired function, and performs a drop operation. Thus, the process can be easily executed in the initial mode of the function (hereinafter, such an operation method may be referred to as a shortening operation). Since the process can be executed before the document icons 511 to 514 are brought close to the function icons 521 to 525, the user can perform a drag operation in a short time and a short distance. Accordingly, it is possible to promptly instruct execution of processing in the initial mode. For example, for a document that is not particular about the output mode and can be output in the initial mode, a print job can be submitted quickly and easily. As a result, the user can quickly obtain a printed matter.

  When a drag operation is performed on the document icons 511 to 514, the display mode of the function icons 521 to 525 (function icons 521 to 525 associated with the document icons 511 to 514) in the moving direction is changed. May not be performed. Further, the line 541 that connects the two may not be displayed.

  Further, as a result of the drag operation performed on the document icons 511 to 514, when the operated document icons 511 to 514 are moved by a predetermined distance, the function icon 521 in the moving direction even if the drop operation is not performed. Processing in the initial mode may be executed with the functions of ˜525.

  [Second Embodiment]

  Since the basic configuration of the image forming apparatus in the second embodiment is the same as that in the first embodiment, description thereof will not be repeated here. The user can perform the process execution method in the initial mode in the same manner as the shortening operation in the first embodiment. The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the image forming apparatus 1 can be instructed by easily distinguishing the execution of the process in the initial mode from the execution of the process after detailed setting. .

  In the image forming apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment, when the document icons 511 to 514 are dragged and dropped onto the function icons 521 to 525, the function setting mode corresponding to the function icons 521 to 525 is set. The operation mode shifts. In the detailed setting mode, a detailed setting screen corresponding to the function icons 521 to 525 on which the drop operation has been performed is displayed on the display screen 501. The user can execute the function after performing detailed setting for the function corresponding to the dropped function icons 521 to 525 on the detailed setting screen.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a relationship between an operation using the image forming apparatus 1 and the display screen 501 in the second embodiment.

  Hereinafter, as an example, an operation performed by the user and an operation of the image forming apparatus 1 in a case where a document corresponding to the document icon 511 is printed after detailed setting will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the user presses down the document icon 511 (operation position 530) and drags it toward the print icon 521 (drag operation). Here, when a drag operation is performed toward the print icon 521 and the document icon 511 moves for a predetermined distance, it is determined that the document icon 511 and the print icon 521 are associated with each other. As a result, as in the first embodiment, the print icon 521 is enlarged and displayed (print icon 521a). After the display mode of the print icon 521 is changed in this way, if a drop operation is performed at a position away from the print icon 521, the original is printed in the initial mode (by the shortening operation). Print in initial mode.)

  When the operation is continued without performing the drop operation and the document icon 511 is moved until it overlaps the print icon 521 as shown in FIG. 8 (shown as the operation position 532 and the document icon 511b in FIG. 8). The user performs a drop operation. When the user performs a drop operation, a detailed setting screen regarding the print function is displayed on the display panel 13 as a display screen. That is, the operation mode of the image forming apparatus 1 shifts to the detailed setting mode of the printing function.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a detailed setting screen related to the print function.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the function setting button 561 to 565 is provided on the detailed setting screen 551 related to the printing function. The user can perform settings corresponding to the buttons by operating the function setting buttons 561 to 565. A document image quality setting button 561 is a button for performing settings relating to the print image quality. A color setting button 562 is a button for setting whether printing is performed in color or monochrome. The density setting button 563 is a button for setting the print density. A paper setting button 564 is a button for performing settings relating to the size and thickness of the paper to be printed. The magnification setting button 565 is a button for setting when the document is reduced and printed on a small sheet, or when the document is enlarged and printed on a large sheet. The user can execute printing by performing a predetermined operation after performing the setting through such a detailed setting screen 551.

  These processes are realized, for example, by the CPU 20 executing the control program 27a and controlling each unit of the image forming apparatus 1. The operation of the image forming apparatus 1 performed at that time will be described below assuming that, for example, the document icon 511 among the document icons 511 to 514 is operated by the user.

  FIG. 10 is a first flowchart for explaining an example of an operation performed in the image forming apparatus 1 when the document icon 511 is operated in the second embodiment.

  In FIG. 10, the processing from step S201 to step S208 is the same as the processing from step S101 to step S108 of the first embodiment. That is, when a drag operation is performed on the document icon 511, the CPU 20 changes the display mode of the function icons 521 to 525 in the moving direction. Then, the CPU 20 determines whether or not the document icon 511 has been released (whether or not a drop operation has been performed).

  When the document icon 511 is released in step S208, in step S209, the CPU 20 determines whether or not the function icons 521 to 525 exist at the released positions.

  If not present in step S209 (NO), in step S210, the CPU 20 executes the function of the function icons 521 to 525 corresponding to the operation direction in the initial mode.

  If it exists in step S209 (YES), in step S211, the CPU 20 shifts the operation mode to a detailed setting mode for setting functions corresponding to the function icons 521 to 525. Thereby, a detailed setting screen is displayed.

  FIG. 11 is a second flowchart for explaining an example of an operation performed in the image forming apparatus 1 when the document icon 511 is operated in the second embodiment.

  In step S206 of FIG. 10, it is determined whether or not there are function icons 521 to 525 in the moving direction of the document icon 511. If there is no function icon 521-525, it will progress to the processing of FIG.

  If there is no function icon 521-525 in the movement direction in step S206, the process of step S212 is performed. That is, as shown in FIG. 11, in step S212, the CPU 20 determines whether or not the document icon 511 has been dropped. If it is determined during the drop operation, the process proceeds to step S213.

  In step S213, the CPU 20 determines whether there are function icons 521 to 525 at positions where the document icon 511 is released.

  If there are function icons 521 to 525 in step S213, in step S214, the CPU 20 shifts the operation mode to a detailed setting mode for setting the functions corresponding to the function icons 521 to 525 in the same manner as in step S211.

  On the other hand, if there are no function icons 521 to 525 in step S213, in step S215, the CPU 20 cancels the drag process. That is, the process for the document icon 511 is not executed, and the display on the display screen 501 returns to the state before the operation.

  In the second embodiment, when the document icon 511 is dropped on the function icons 522 to 525 different from the print icon 521, for example, the following detailed setting screen is displayed according to each function icon 522 to 525. Is displayed.

  For example, when a drop operation is performed on the facsimile icon 522, a destination selection screen for facsimile transmission is displayed as a detailed setting screen for the facsimile transmission function. On the transmission destination selection screen, a transmission destination for facsimile transmission can be specified by selecting from transmission destination candidates registered in advance, or can be specified by directly inputting a number. It should be noted that the destination selection screen may be displayed even when a shortening operation is performed on the facsimile icon 522 and processing is performed in the initial mode, or processing for transmitting to a predetermined destination is executed. You may do it.

  For example, when a drop operation is performed on the program icon 525, a detailed setting screen for the registered program function is displayed. In the image forming apparatus 1, the function selected by the user is registered in advance after associating a desired setting value (registration program). On this detailed setting screen, such a setting screen for a registered program in which specific print settings and transmission settings have been made in advance is displayed. The user can select a registration program on the detailed setting screen, specify using a set value, or specify by directly entering a number. Thereby, the user can easily execute a function based on the contents set in the registration program for the document.

  Here, the detailed setting screen is displayed in a state in which the setting values registered in the program are reflected. For example, when the registration program is set to perform double-sided printing and so-called 4in1 printing, when the operation mode shifts to the detailed setting mode, the detailed setting screen is displayed with the 4in1 setting and double-sided printing setting already selected. Is displayed. When the shortening operation is performed on the program icon 525 and the process is executed in the initial mode, the job is executed so that double-sided printing and 4-in-1 printing are performed on the selected document.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 when the document icon 511 is dropped on the transmission icon 523.

  As shown in FIG. 12, it is assumed that the document icon 511 is dragged over the transmission icon 523 (in FIG. 12, the document icon 511c and the operation position 533 are shown. In FIG. 12, the function is shown. The change of the display mode regarding the icons 521 to 525 is not shown.) In this case, when a drop operation is performed on the transmission icon 523, an information transmission destination selection screen is displayed as a detailed setting screen for the information transmission function. Here, in the information transmission function, the document data is transmitted to the transmission destination by, for example, FTP (File Transfer Protocol) or electronic mail.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a transmission destination selection screen regarding the information transmission function.

  As shown in FIG. 13, a color setting button 572, a density setting button 573, a magnification setting button 574, and a transmission destination selection button 575 are arranged on the transmission destination selection screen 553 related to the information transmission function. The function setting buttons 572 to 574 have the same functions as the function setting buttons 562, 563, and 565 on the detailed setting screen 551 regarding the print function. Here, the transmission destination selection button 575 is displayed so that, for example, a selection operation as a transmission destination can be received for four users. Each user's button is associated with contact information (for example, an e-mail address, an FTP server address and an account) of the user.

  The user performs a selection operation of the user as the transmission destination from the transmission destination selection screen 553 displayed in this way. In addition, if necessary, an operation for setting the color, density, magnification and the like for the information of the document to be transmitted can be performed using the function setting buttons 572 to 574. Thus, the document information is transmitted to the selected user in a state set through the function setting buttons 572 to 574.

  When the shortening operation is performed on the document icon 511 toward the transmission icon 523, the CPU 20 transmits information on the document corresponding to the document icon 511 to a predetermined transmission destination. For example, it is assumed that an individual user logs in to the image forming apparatus 1 and transmits a document in a BOX. In this case, in the initial mode, a job for transmitting a document to the transmission destination of the operated individual user is executed (Scan-to-me function). The scan-to-me function is a function for transmitting a document to oneself by setting an e-mail address of the user as one piece of information of the individual user in advance. When the transmission function is executed in the initial mode, the selected document is transmitted to its own e-mail address. Thereby, information transmission can be performed promptly.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 when the document icon 511 is dropped on the BOX icon 524.

  As shown in FIG. 14, it is assumed that the document icon 511 is dragged onto the BOX icon 524 (in FIG. 14, the document icon 511d and the operation position 534 are shown. In FIG. 14, the function is shown. The change of the display mode regarding the icons 521 to 525 is not shown.) In this case, when a drop operation is performed on the BOX icon 524, a storage area selection screen is displayed as a detailed setting screen for the information storage function to the BOX. Here, in the information storage function, for example, various originals such as an image read by scanning are stored from a certain BOX to a storage destination BOX.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a storage area selection screen regarding the information storage function in the BOX.

  As shown in FIG. 15, for example, four BOX selection buttons 581 to 584 are arranged on the storage area selection screen 555 related to the information storage function. The BOX selection button 581 corresponds to the BOX of “Box 1”, for example. The BOX selection button 582 corresponds to the BOX of “Box 2”, for example. The BOX selection button 583 corresponds to the BOX of “Box 3”, for example. The BOX selection button 584 corresponds to the BOX of “Box 4”, for example.

  On the storage area selection screen 555 displayed in this way, the user performs an operation for selecting a BOX as a storage destination. The document information is stored in the BOX corresponding to the BOX selection buttons 581 to 584 selected in this way.

  When the shortening operation is performed on the document icon 511 toward the BOX icon 524, the CPU 20 stores information on the document corresponding to the document icon 511 in a predetermined storage area. For example, document information is stored in the BOX of the operated user. Thereby, information can be stored promptly.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, each function can be executed in the initial mode by a shortening operation, and after the document icons 511 to 514 are dragged, a drop operation is performed on the function icons 521 to 525. By doing so, it is possible to display the detailed setting screen and execute each function. Therefore, the function can be executed in various modes by an intuitive operation.

  [Third Embodiment]

  Since the basic configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment is the same as that of the second embodiment, description thereof will not be repeated here. The user can perform the process execution method in the initial mode in the same manner as the shortening operation in the second embodiment. In the third embodiment, when the direction of the drag operation changes after the shortening operation is performed as in the second embodiment, the function icon and the function icon are changed according to the direction of the drag operation after the change. Association is performed.

  In the image forming apparatus 1 according to the third embodiment, the CPU 20 changes the drag operation direction (the movement direction of the document icons 511 to 514) after the document icons 511 to 514 are dragged. To detect. After that, when the document icons 511 to 514 move by a predetermined distance by a drag operation, the CPU 20 detects the positions of the moved document icons 511 to 514. The CPU 20 calculates an operation direction after the operation direction of the drag operation is changed from a position when the operation direction of the document icons 511 to 514 is changed (this is a base point) and a position after the movement. Then, it is determined whether or not there are function icons 521 to 525 in the movement directions of the calculated document icons 511 to 514. If there are function icons 521 to 525, the function icons 521 to 525 are associated with the document icons 511 to 514, respectively. That is, when the document icons 511 to 514 are subsequently subjected to a drop operation, the processing of the document with the document icons 511 to 514 is executed in the initial mode with the functions of the associated function icons 521 to 525.

  FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of a relationship between an operation using the image forming apparatus 1 and the display screen 501 in the third embodiment.

  Hereinafter, as an example, the operation performed by the user and the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described in the case where the detailed information of the document corresponding to the document icon 511 is set in the BOX in the initial mode. In the following description, it is assumed that the drag operation of the document icon 511 is started, the drag operation is once performed toward the print icon 521, and then the operation direction is changed toward the BOX icon 524.

  When the drag operation of the document icon 511 is started toward the print icon 521 (from the operation position 531 to the operation position 531), the display mode of the print icon 511 is changed. Then, when the operation direction of the drag operation is changed from the operation position 531 and the drag operation is continued to the position moved from the operation position 531 by a predetermined distance (operation position 531a), the operation position 531 and the operation position 531a are specified. It is confirmed whether or not there are function icons 521 to 525 in the operation direction. Here, the drag operation is performed toward the BOX icon 524, but as shown in FIG. 16, the BOX icon 524 exists in the operation direction. Therefore, the document icon 511a and the BOX icon 524 are associated with each other, and the display mode of the BOX icon 524 is changed (524a).

  At this time, as in the first embodiment, a line 541a is displayed on the display screen 501 so as to connect the document icon 511a corresponding to the operation position 531 and the BOX icon 524. Thereby, the user can easily understand that the document icon 511 and the BOX icon 524 are associated with each other. Note that the line 541a may not be displayed.

  Here, the print icon 521 whose display mode has been changed first is returned to the normal display mode when the operation direction of the drag operation is changed. In other words, when the operation direction of the drag operation is changed and it cannot be said that the print icon 521 exists in the operation direction, the association between the document icon 511 and the print icon 521 is released.

  When the document icon 511 is associated with the BOX icon 524 in this way, the user performs a drop operation to execute an information storage function to the BOX in the initial mode for the document information corresponding to the document icon 511. Can be made.

  In the third embodiment, even after starting the drag operation, the user can change the function to be executed without starting the drag operation from the beginning. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 1 becomes easier to use.

  [Fourth Embodiment]

  Since the basic configuration of the image forming apparatus in the fourth embodiment is the same as that in the second embodiment, description thereof will not be repeated here. The user can perform the process execution method in the initial mode in the same manner as the shortening operation in the second embodiment. In the fourth embodiment, even when a flick operation is performed on a document icon, association with a function icon is performed.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 when a document icon flick operation is performed in the fourth embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 17, when the user performs a flick operation on the document icons 511 to 514 in step S301, the CPU 20 detects it.

  In step S302, the CPU 20 acquires the direction of the flick operation (flick direction).

  In step S303, the CPU 20 determines whether or not there are function icons 521 to 525 in the flick direction. The determination is made according to the flick direction, the positions of the function icons 521 to 525, and the positions of the document icons 511 to 514 where the flick operation has been performed.

  If there is no function icon 521-525 in step S303, in step S304, the CPU 20 cancels the process without performing the process for the flick operation.

  On the other hand, if there are function icons 521 to 525 in step S303, the CPU 20 changes the display mode of the function icons 521 to 525 in step S305. That is, the function icons 521 to 525 and the document icons 511 to 514 are associated with each other.

  In step S <b> 306, the CPU 20 executes a process for the document of the document icons 511 to 514 on which the flick operation has been performed with a function corresponding to the corresponding function icons 511 to 514. Processing is performed in the initial mode of the function.

  FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of a relationship between an operation using the image forming apparatus 1 and the display screen 501 in the fourth embodiment.

  Hereinafter, as an example, the operation performed by the user and the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 when the print function is executed in the initial mode for the document corresponding to the document icon 511 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 18, the user performs a flick operation on the document icon 511 by touching the icon image with a finger and then flicking the finger. In FIG. 18, the direction of the flick operation is indicated by an arrow F1. When the flick operation is performed toward the print icon 521, the CPU 20 associates the print icon 521 with the document icon 511. As a result, a process for printing the original corresponding to the original icon 511 in the initial mode is executed.

  The operation when the flick operation is performed toward the other function icons 522 to 525 is the same as this. That is, when the function icons 522 to 525 associated with the document icon 511 are the following, for example, the processing to be executed is as follows.

  In the case of the facsimile icon 522, for example, a destination selection screen is displayed. Even when the document icon 511 is dropped onto the facsimile icon 522, the destination selection screen is displayed as in the second embodiment.

  In the case of the transmission icon 523, the document is transmitted by the Scan-to-me function. Note that when a drop operation of the document icon 511 to the transmission icon 523 is performed, a transmission destination selection screen 553 on which document setting can be performed may be displayed as in the second embodiment.

  In the case of the BOX icon 524, the document is moved (stored) to the personal BOX of the user who performed the flick operation. Note that when a drop operation of the document icon 511 to the BOX icon 524 is performed, a selection screen (storage area selection screen 555) of the movement destination BOX is displayed as in the second embodiment.

  In the case of the program icon 525, the job is executed with the settings registered in the program. When a drop operation is performed on the program icon 525, a detailed setting screen (such as a print setting screen) for the registered program function is reflected in the state where the setting value registered in the program is reflected, as in the second embodiment. ) Is displayed.

  In the fourth embodiment, when a flick operation is performed to associate the document icons 511 to 514 with the function icons 521 to 525, the display mode of the associated function icons 521 to 525 is changed. As a result, the user can easily know which function icons 521 to 525 can be operated. In addition, after changing the display mode for the function icons 521 to 525 in this way, a grace period of a predetermined time is provided until the processing corresponding to the function icons 521 to 525 is actually executed. A user cancel operation may be accepted.

  As described above, in the fourth embodiment, the user can execute the process for the corresponding document only by performing the flick operation on the document icons 511 to 514. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 1 can execute processing more intuitively and quickly.

  [Others]

  The image forming apparatus may be configured by appropriately combining the features described in the above embodiments. For example, in the fourth embodiment, the operation at the time of the drag operation as in the first embodiment is not performed, and the process in the initial mode is executed only when the flick operation is performed. May be.

  For the function icon associated with the operated document icon, the display mode can be changed by any method as long as it can indicate to the user that the function icon can be executed. Good.

  The CPU performs processing corresponding to the function icon in the initial mode when a flick operation is performed after the document icon is associated with the function icon and the display mode of the function icon is changed. Also good.

  The display mode of the function icon associated with the document icon need not be changed. In this case, for example, when a drop operation or a flick operation is performed after a shortening operation is performed, the operation in the initial mode may be executed.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the CPU may perform an animation display in which a document icon that has been dragged, dropped, or flicked is moved to a function icon associated therewith. For example, the animation display may be performed when the display mode of the function icon is changed, so that the user can easily grasp that the document icon and the function icon are associated with each other. Further, for example, the animation display may be performed when the process is executed, and the user may be able to easily grasp the process to be performed in the image forming apparatus.

  The movement direction (operation direction) of the drag operation is calculated using the position after the drag operation has been performed for a predetermined time even if it is not the position after the drag operation has been performed for a predetermined distance. You may make it do. In addition, the predetermined distance and the predetermined time that are threshold values when determining the direction of the drag operation may be set uniformly for all users who operate the image forming apparatus, or may be set for each user who operates (for example, management) And a general user may be set).

  The function icons displayed on the display screen are not limited to the above. An appropriate item may be displayed according to the function of the image forming apparatus 1.

  Further, instead of the document icon or together with the document icon, for example, an icon for information to be generated in the image forming apparatus 1 such as an icon indicating a document reading unit may be displayed. For example, by performing a shortening operation to associate an icon indicating a document reading unit with a transmission icon, a document set on the image reading unit is read in the initial mode, and the generated information is information in the initial mode. It may be configured for transmission.

  The display panel of the image forming apparatus may not be a touch panel. Even in this case, the user uses the pointing device connected to the image forming apparatus, for example, to perform the above operation by performing a drag operation or the like while moving the cursor icon displayed on the display screen. be able to.

  The image forming apparatus may be remotely operable using an external terminal capable of communicating with the image forming apparatus. For example, a display equivalent to the display panel of the image forming apparatus may be displayed on the display panel of the external terminal, and an operation equivalent to an operation performed on the display panel of the image forming apparatus may be accepted in the external terminal.

  The image forming apparatus may be a monochrome / color copying machine, a printer, a facsimile machine, or a multifunction machine (MFP) thereof.

  The processing in the above embodiment may be performed by software or by using a hardware circuit.

  A program for executing the processing in the above-described embodiment can be provided, or the program can be recorded on a recording medium such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk, a hard disk, a ROM, a RAM, or a memory card and provided to the user. It may be. The program may be downloaded to the apparatus via a communication line such as the Internet. The processing described in the text in the above flowchart is executed by the CPU according to the program.

  The above embodiment should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming apparatus 11 Operation part 13 Display panel (an example of a display part)
15 Operation position detection unit 17 Screen control unit 20 CPU
23 ROM
25 RAM
27a Control Program 30 Image Forming Unit 40 Document Reading Unit 50 Communication Unit 501 Display Screen 511-514 Document Icon 521-525 Function Icon 551 (Print Function) Detail Setting Screen 553 Destination Selection Screen (Example of Detail Setting Screen)
555 Storage area selection screen (example of detailed setting screen)

Claims (50)

A display unit for displaying a display screen;
First display means for displaying a data icon indicating data to be processed on the display screen so as to be movable according to a user's drag operation;
Second display means for displaying a function icon corresponding to a predetermined function on the display screen;
Accepting means for accepting a drag operation on the data icon performed by the user with directionality on the display screen;
A moving direction detecting means for detecting a moving direction of the data icon by the drag operation;
Determination means for determining the function icon in the detected movement direction ;
The predetermined processing previously set value is set to the function icons is determined by the determination means, before said data icon overlaps the function icon, and feasible for the data indicated by the data icon An information processing apparatus comprising control means . The moving direction detecting means includes
First detecting means for detecting that the user has performed a drag operation on the data icon;
After the drag operation is detected by the first detection means, the position of the data icon after moving by a predetermined distance by the drag operation or the position of the data icon after moving by a predetermined time by the drag operation Second detecting means for detecting ;
A first direction for calculating the moving direction of the data icon based on the position of the data icon before the drag operation is detected by the first detecting means and the position detected by the second detecting means. And calculating means of
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit performs the determination based on a moving direction calculated by the first calculation unit and a position of the function icon. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a changing unit that changes a display mode of the function icon based on a determination result of the determination unit. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control unit causes the process to be executed when the user performs a drop operation of the data icon after the change by the change unit. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control unit causes the process to be executed when a flick operation is performed on the data icon by a user after the change by the change unit. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the changing unit displays an animation for moving the data icon to the function icon when the display mode of the function icon is changed. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising: a drawing unit that draws a line that associates the data icon and the function icon on the display screen based on a determination result of the determination unit. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the control unit displays an animation for moving the data icon to the function icon when the process is executed. The moving direction detecting means includes
Third detection means for detecting that the movement direction of the drag operation has changed after the drag operation is detected by the first detection means;
Detecting the position of the third after the detection has been performed by the detectors, the data icon after moving a predetermined time by the position or the drag operation of the data icon after moving by the predetermined distance by the drag operation A fourth detection means ;
A second calculation for calculating the moving direction of the data icon based on the position of the data icon when the detection by the third detection means is performed and the position detected by the fourth detection means. and a means,
The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the determination unit performs the determination based on a moving direction calculated by the second calculation unit and a position of the function icon. The moving direction detecting means includes
Flick detection means for detecting that a flick operation by the user has been performed on the data icon ;
When the flick operation is detected by the flick detection means, it has flick direction detection means for detecting the flick direction of the flick operation,
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit performs the determination based on a flick direction detected by the flick direction detection unit and a position of the function icon. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising a changing unit that changes a display mode of the function icon based on a determination result of the determination unit. The information processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein when the display mode of the function icon is changed, the changing unit displays an animation for moving the data icon to the function icon. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a setting unit that sets a setting value used when the function is executed in the predetermined execution mode. 14. The control unit according to claim 1, wherein, after the determination by the determination unit, the predetermined process is executed when the data icon is dropped before the data icon overlaps the function icon. Information processing device. Wherein, if the data icon is superimposed drop operation on the function icon displays the detail setting screen corresponding to the function icon on the display screen, the information processing apparatus according to claim 14. The function icon corresponds to a print function ,
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit causes printing based on a setting value of an initial mode based on a determination result of the determination unit. The function icon corresponds to a facsimile transmission function ,
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit causes transmission based on a setting value of an initial mode based on a determination result of the determination unit. The function icon corresponds to an information transmission function ,
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit transmits information to a predetermined transmission destination based on a determination result of the determination unit. The information processing apparatus according to claim 18 , wherein the control unit transmits information using a scan-to-me function based on a determination result of the determination unit. The function icon corresponds to an information storage function ,
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit stores information in a predetermined storage area based on a determination result of the determination unit. The function icon is a program registered for a set value,
Said control means on the basis of the determination result determining means, said program in registered set values to execute the function corresponding to the function icon, in a state where said program registered set is reflected, details The information processing apparatus according to claim 15 , wherein the information processing apparatus displays a setting screen.   A display unit for displaying a display screen;
  First display means for displaying a document icon on the display screen so as to be movable in accordance with a user's drag operation;
  Second display means for displaying a function icon corresponding to a predetermined function on the display screen;
  Accepting means for accepting an operation on the document icon performed by the user with directionality on the display screen;
  When the operation is performed by the reception unit, the operation is performed based on the position of the document icon on the display screen, the position of the function icon on the display screen, and the directionality of the operation received by the reception unit. Determining means for determining whether the document icon and the function icon are associated with each other;
  When the operation is performed, the document icon corresponds to the document icon by the function corresponding to the function icon based on the determination result of the determination unit before the document icon approaches the function icon on the display screen. Execution means for executing processing on information to be performed in a predetermined execution mode;
  Third display means for displaying a detailed setting screen corresponding to the function icon on the display screen when the document icon is dropped on the function icon;
  The function icon corresponds to a print function,
  The detailed setting screen is a setting screen related to the printing function,
  The execution unit is configured to execute printing based on a setting value of an initial mode based on a determination result of the determination unit.   A display unit for displaying a display screen;
  First display means for displaying a document icon on the display screen so as to be movable in accordance with a user's drag operation;
  Second display means for displaying a function icon corresponding to a predetermined function on the display screen;
  Accepting means for accepting an operation on the document icon performed by the user with directionality on the display screen;
  When the operation is performed by the reception unit, the operation is performed based on the position of the document icon on the display screen, the position of the function icon on the display screen, and the directionality of the operation received by the reception unit. Determining means for determining whether the document icon and the function icon are associated with each other;
  When the operation is performed, the document icon corresponds to the document icon by the function corresponding to the function icon based on the determination result of the determination unit before the document icon approaches the function icon on the display screen. Execution means for executing processing on information to be performed in a predetermined execution mode;
  Third display means for displaying a detailed setting screen corresponding to the function icon on the display screen when the document icon is dropped on the function icon;
  The function icon corresponds to an information transmission function,
  The detailed setting screen is a transmission destination selection screen for information transmission,
  The image forming apparatus, wherein the execution unit transmits information to a predetermined transmission destination based on a determination result of the determination unit.   A display unit for displaying a display screen;
  First display means for displaying a document icon on the display screen so as to be movable in accordance with a user's drag operation;
  Second display means for displaying a function icon corresponding to a predetermined function on the display screen;
  Accepting means for accepting an operation on the document icon performed by the user with directionality on the display screen;
  When the operation is performed by the reception unit, the operation is performed based on the position of the document icon on the display screen, the position of the function icon on the display screen, and the directionality of the operation received by the reception unit. Determining means for determining whether the document icon and the function icon are associated with each other;
  When the operation is performed, the document icon corresponds to the document icon by the function corresponding to the function icon based on the determination result of the determination unit before the document icon approaches the function icon on the display screen. Execution means for executing processing on information to be performed in a predetermined execution mode;
  Third display means for displaying a detailed setting screen corresponding to the function icon on the display screen when the document icon is dropped on the function icon;
  The function icon corresponds to an information storage function,
  The detailed setting screen is a storage area selection screen,
  The image forming apparatus, wherein the execution unit stores information in a predetermined storage area based on a determination result of the determination unit.   A method for controlling an information processing apparatus including a display unit that displays a display screen,
  A first display step of displaying a data icon indicating data to be processed on the display screen so as to be movable in accordance with a user's drag operation;
  A second display step of displaying a function icon corresponding to a predetermined function on the display screen;
  An accepting step for accepting a drag operation on the data icon performed by the user with directionality on the display screen;
  A moving direction detecting step of detecting a moving direction of the data icon by the drag operation;
  A determination step of determining the function icon in the detected moving direction;
  A predetermined process in which a setting value is set in advance for the function icon determined in the determination step can be executed on the data indicated by the data icon before the data icon overlaps the function icon. A control method for the information processing apparatus, comprising: a control step.   The moving direction detecting step includes
  A first detection step of detecting that a drag operation by a user has been performed on the data icon;
  After the drag operation is detected by the first detection step, the position of the data icon after moving by a predetermined distance by the drag operation or the position of the data icon after moving by a predetermined time by the drag operation A second detection step to detect;
  A first direction for calculating a moving direction of the data icon based on the position of the data icon before the drag operation is detected by the first detection step and the position detected by the second detection step. And calculating step of
  26. The method of controlling an information processing apparatus according to claim 25, wherein the determination step performs the determination based on the movement direction calculated in the first calculation step and the position of the function icon.   27. The information processing apparatus control method according to claim 26, further comprising a change step of changing a display mode of the function icon based on a determination result of the determination step.   28. The method according to claim 27, wherein the control step causes the process to be executed when the user performs a drop operation of the data icon after the change in the change step.   29. The control of the information processing apparatus according to claim 27, wherein the control step causes the process to be executed when a flick operation is performed on the data icon by a user after the change in the change step. Method.   30. The method according to claim 27, wherein the changing step displays an animation for moving the data icon to the function icon when the display mode of the function icon is changed.   The control of the information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 27 to 30, further comprising a drawing step of drawing a line that associates the data icon and the function icon on the display screen based on a determination result of the determination step. Method.   32. The method of controlling an information processing apparatus according to claim 27, wherein the control step displays an animation for moving the data icon to the function icon when the processing is executed.   The moving direction detecting step includes
  A third detection step of detecting that the movement direction of the drag operation has changed after the drag operation is detected by the first detection step;
  After the detection in the third detection step is performed, the position of the data icon after moving by a predetermined distance by the drag operation or the position of the data icon after moving by a predetermined time by the drag operation is detected. A fourth detection step;
  A second calculation for calculating a moving direction of the data icon based on the position of the data icon when the detection by the third detection step is performed and the position detected by the fourth detection step. And having steps
  33. The method of controlling an information processing apparatus according to claim 27, wherein the determination step performs the determination based on a moving direction calculated by the second calculation step and a position of the function icon. .   The moving direction detecting step includes
  A flick detection step of detecting that a flick operation by the user has been performed on the data icon;
  A flick direction detecting step for detecting a flick direction of the flick operation when the flick operation is detected by the flick detection step;
  27. The method according to claim 25, wherein the determination step performs the determination based on a flick direction detected by the flick direction detection step and a position of the function icon.   The information processing apparatus control method according to claim 34, further comprising a changing step of changing a display mode of the function icon based on a determination result of the determination step.   36. The method according to claim 35, wherein the changing step displays an animation for moving the data icon to the function icon when the display mode of the function icon is changed.   37. The method of controlling an information processing apparatus according to claim 25, further comprising a setting step for setting a setting value used when the function is executed in the predetermined execution mode.   The control step according to any one of claims 25 to 37, wherein, after the determination in the determination step, the predetermined process is executed when the data icon is dropped before the data icon overlaps the function icon. A method for controlling an information processing apparatus.   39. The control of the information processing apparatus according to claim 38, wherein the control step displays a detailed setting screen corresponding to the function icon on the display screen when the data icon is superimposed on the function icon and a drop operation is performed. Method.   The function icon corresponds to a print function,
  40. The method of controlling an information processing apparatus according to claim 25, wherein the control step causes printing based on a setting value of an initial mode based on a determination result of the determination step.   The function icon corresponds to a facsimile transmission function,
  40. The method of controlling an information processing apparatus according to claim 25, wherein the control step causes transmission based on a setting value of an initial mode based on a determination result of the determination step.   The function icon corresponds to an information transmission function,
  40. The method for controlling an information processing apparatus according to claim 25, wherein the control step transmits information to a predetermined transmission destination based on a determination result of the determination step.   43. The information processing apparatus control method according to claim 42, wherein the control step transmits information by a scan-to-me function based on a determination result of the determination step.   The function icon corresponds to an information storage function,
  40. The method for controlling an information processing apparatus according to claim 25, wherein the control step stores information in a predetermined storage area based on a determination result of the determination step.   The function icon is a program registered for a set value,
  The control step causes the function corresponding to the function icon to be executed with the setting value registered in the program based on the determination result of the determination step, and the detailed setting is reflected in the state where the setting value registered in the program is reflected. 40. The method for controlling an information processing apparatus according to claim 39, wherein a setting screen is displayed. A control method for an image forming apparatus including a display unit for displaying a display screen,
A first display step of displaying a document icon on the display screen so as to be movable in accordance with a user's drag operation;
A second display step of displaying a function icon corresponding to a predetermined function on the display screen;
An accepting step of accepting an operation on the document icon, which is performed with a direction on the display screen by a user;
When the operation is performed by the reception step, the operation is performed based on the position of the document icon on the display screen, the position of the function icon on the display screen, and the directionality of the operation received by the reception step. A determination step for determining whether the document icon and the function icon are associated with each other;
When the operation is performed, the document icon corresponds to the document icon by the function corresponding to the function icon based on the determination result of the determination step before the document icon approaches the function icon on the display screen. An execution step for executing processing on information to be performed in a predetermined execution mode ;
A third display step of displaying a detailed setting screen corresponding to the function icon on the display screen when the document icon is dropped on the function icon;
The function icon corresponds to a print function,
The detailed setting screen is a setting screen related to the printing function,
The method of controlling an image forming apparatus, wherein the execution step executes printing based on a setting value of an initial mode based on a determination result of the determination step.   A control method for an image forming apparatus including a display unit for displaying a display screen,
  A first display step of displaying a document icon on the display screen so as to be movable in accordance with a user's drag operation;
  A second display step of displaying a function icon corresponding to a predetermined function on the display screen;
  An accepting step of accepting an operation on the document icon, which is performed with a direction on the display screen by a user;
  When the operation is performed by the reception step, the operation is performed based on the position of the document icon on the display screen, the position of the function icon on the display screen, and the directionality of the operation received by the reception step. A determination step for determining whether the document icon and the function icon are associated with each other;
  When the operation is performed, the document icon corresponds to the document icon by the function corresponding to the function icon based on the determination result of the determination step before the document icon approaches the function icon on the display screen. An execution step for executing processing on information to be performed in a predetermined execution mode;
  A third display step of displaying a detailed setting screen corresponding to the function icon on the display screen when the document icon is dropped on the function icon;
  The function icon corresponds to an information transmission function,
  The detailed setting screen is a transmission destination selection screen for information transmission,
  The image forming apparatus control method, wherein the execution step transmits information to a predetermined transmission destination based on a determination result of the determination step.   A control method for an image forming apparatus including a display unit for displaying a display screen,
  A first display step of displaying a document icon on the display screen so as to be movable in accordance with a user's drag operation;
  A second display step of displaying a function icon corresponding to a predetermined function on the display screen;
  An accepting step of accepting an operation on the document icon, which is performed with a direction on the display screen by a user;
  When the operation is performed by the reception step, the operation is performed based on the position of the document icon on the display screen, the position of the function icon on the display screen, and the directionality of the operation received by the reception step. A determination step for determining whether the document icon and the function icon are associated with each other;
  When the operation is performed, the document icon corresponds to the document icon by the function corresponding to the function icon based on the determination result of the determination step before the document icon approaches the function icon on the display screen. An execution step for executing processing on information to be performed in a predetermined execution mode;
  A third display step of displaying a detailed setting screen corresponding to the function icon on the display screen when the document icon is dropped on the function icon;
  The function icon corresponds to an information storage function,
  The detailed setting screen is a storage area selection screen,
  In the image forming apparatus, the execution step stores information in a predetermined storage area based on a determination result of the determination step.   46. A control program for an information processing apparatus that causes a computer to execute the control method for the information processing apparatus according to claim 25.   49. A control program for an image forming apparatus, causing a computer to execute the control method for an image forming apparatus according to claim 46.

Images