Information processing apparatus and image forming apparatus

Abstract

To provide an image forming apparatus that can execute a plurality of services and is easy to operate.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus 100 executes a plurality of utilization services. The image forming apparatus 100 comprises a display unit 131a that displays first to fifth keys 11 to 15, and has a search function to conduct a search related to an operation to execute a utilization service desired by an operator. After a search related to an operation to execute a predetermined utilization service is conducted with the search function, and the predetermined utilization service is executed, the display unit 131a displays the third key 13 to execute the predetermined utilization service.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus and an image forming apparatus that execute various services. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there have been information processing apparatuses that execute various services when operated by an operator. For example, an image forming apparatus that is a multifunction machine having the functions of a copier, a facsimile machine, a printer, etc. is one such information processing apparatus.

[0003] Such image forming devices are installed in, for example, convenience stores, and users (operators) can use various services, such as copy services, facsimile services, and content print services, by operating the image forming devices. In addition, since the image forming devices have a wide range of functions, they are convenient because they can be used for various purposes. For example, when using a copy service, various services can be used, such as color copying, double-sided copying, and enlarged / reduced copying. However, since such various services can be used, multiple settings must be made when using the image forming device, and there is a problem that the operation is complicated. This is not a problem for users who are familiar with operating image forming devices, but some users are not familiar with operating image forming devices, and there is a problem that such users have to make time and effort to use the desired service.

[0004] Therefore, for example, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, an image forming apparatus having a search function has been proposed. The image forming apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1 has a keyword input means, a keyword search means for searching for a corresponding function from a keyword list associated with various functions based on a keyword input to the keyword input means, and a first display means for displaying the functions searched for by the keyword search means on an image display unit, and when a predetermined function is specified from among the functions displayed on the image display unit, displaying on the image display unit as an image a first virtual finish state when the specified function is executed. According to the image forming apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1, a user can easily find a desired function by keyword search even if he does not know the official function name, etc. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2007-111875 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The image forming apparatus disclosed in the above-mentioned Patent Document 1 has a search function, so that a user can easily operate it.

[0007] However, even in an image forming device having a search function, when a user executes a predetermined service using the search function and then completes it, if the user subsequently attempts to execute the same predetermined service, the user must use the search function again, which is troublesome. Thus, while the convenience of operating the image forming device has been improved by providing a search function in the image forming device, there is a demand for the device to be even easier to operate.

[0008] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned circumstances, and has an object to provide an information processing apparatus and an image forming apparatus that are capable of executing a plurality of services and are easy to operate. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] An information processing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing device that executes a plurality of services, has a display unit that displays operation keys, and has a search function that searches for operations for executing the service desired by an operator, wherein a search is performed for operations for executing a specified service by the search function, and after the specified service is executed, the display unit displays shortcut keys for executing the specified service.

[0010] As a result, when an operator uses the search function to search for a desired service, the operator does not need to search again when executing the same service, and can easily execute the service by operating the shortcut key. This makes it easy to operate the information processing device. Since there is no need to use the search function multiple times, the operator can reduce the effort of operation and improve work efficiency.

[0011] In addition, in the above-mentioned information processing device, the display unit may execute the search function by displaying a search screen into which a character string related to the service can be input, the character string being a keyword or a service name, and the character string being displayed on the shortcut key.

[0012] As a result, the shortcut key displays a character string of a keyword or a service name. Therefore, the operator can easily understand by looking at the shortcut key that the operation will be facilitated by operating the shortcut key. This makes the operation easy.

[0013] In the above-described information processing device, an operator may operate the shortcut key to cause the display unit to display a start screen of the predetermined service.

[0014] In this way, the operator can operate the shortcut key to display a start screen for a desired service on the display unit, thereby enabling the operator to execute a desired service with a simple operation.

[0015] In addition, in the above-mentioned information processing device, when a refund process is performed after the specified service is executed, or when the operator leaves, the display unit may stop displaying the shortcut key.

[0016] In this way, when the operator has finished using the service, the display of the shortcut key stops, so that the next operator user will not operate the shortcut key by mistake, and it is possible to prevent the start screen of a service other than the desired service from being displayed.

[0017] Another information processing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is characterized in that it includes a display unit that displays operation keys, has a search function that searches for operations for executing the service desired by an operator, a search is performed for operations for executing a specified service by the search function, and during or after the specified service is executed, the display unit displays a video related to the service for executing the specified service.

[0018] In this way, the display unit displays a video relating to the service for executing a specified service, so the operator can understand the operating method for executing the service, and can easily operate it when trying to execute the specified service again. Therefore, there is no need to use the search function multiple times, which saves the operator the trouble of operating and improves work efficiency.

[0019] In addition, in the above-mentioned information processing device, the search function may perform a search for operations for executing the specified service, and during or after the specified service is being executed, the display unit may sequentially highlight the operation keys that the operator needs to operate in order to execute the specified service.

[0020] In this way, the display unit sequentially highlights the operation keys that the operator needs to operate to execute a specified service, allowing the operator to understand the operation method for executing the service and to easily operate the specified service when attempting to execute the service again. This eliminates the need to use the search function multiple times, reducing the effort required for operation and improving work efficiency.

[0021] Yet another information processing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing device that executes a plurality of services, has a display unit that displays operation keys, and has a search function that searches for operations for executing the service desired by an operator, wherein the search function performs a plurality of searches for operations for executing the same service, and when the service is executed a plurality of times, the display unit displays a video related to the service for executing the service.

[0022] As a result, if the operator uses the search function to search multiple times for the execution of the same service, the display unit displays a video about the service for executing the specified service. This allows the operator to understand the operation method for executing the service, and allows the operator to easily operate the specified service when attempting to execute it. As a result, there is no need to use the search function multiple times, which saves the operator the trouble of operating and improves work efficiency.

[0023] An image forming apparatus according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes the information processing apparatus described above and is capable of executing image forming processing.

[0024] This allows the operator who is expected to perform image formation to easily operate the device, and reduces the time and effort required for operation, improving work efficiency. Effect of the Invention

[0025] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an information processing apparatus and an image forming apparatus that are capable of executing a plurality of services and are easy to operate. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0026] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 2 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic control configuration of a control unit in the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Diagram 3] 3 is a schematic diagram showing a first screen displayed by a display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 4] 4 is a schematic diagram showing a second screen displayed by the display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Diagram 5] 4 is a schematic diagram showing a third screen displayed by the display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 6] 11 is a schematic diagram showing a fourth screen displayed by the display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 7] 11 is a schematic diagram showing a fifth screen displayed by the display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 8] 11 is a schematic diagram showing a sixth screen displayed by the display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 9] 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a control operation in the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a seventh screen displayed by a display unit of an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11]FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an eighth screen displayed by a display unit of an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a ninth screen displayed by the display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a tenth screen displayed by a display unit of an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an eleventh screen displayed by a display unit of an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a twelfth screen displayed by a display unit of an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a thirteenth screen displayed by a display unit of an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing a fourteenth screen displayed by a display unit of an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a control operation in an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0027] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. (First embodiment) The configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 1, an image forming apparatus 100 includes an image forming apparatus main body 110, a document reading device 120, and a billing device .

[0029] The document reading device 120 is provided on the upper part of the image forming apparatus main body 110, and includes a document placement table 121, a document reading section 122, and an automatic document feeder 123. The document reading device 120 reads an image of a document placed on the document placement table 121 by the document reading section 122, or reads an image of a document automatically fed by the automatic document feeder 123 by the document reading section 122, and transmits image data of the read document to the image forming apparatus main body 110. The document reading device 120 discharges the document transported by the automatic document feeder 123 and read by the document reading section 122 to a document discharge tray 123a.

[0030] The image forming apparatus main body 110 has a sheet storage section 111, a sheet conveying section 112, an image forming section 113, a sheet discharge section 114, and a human sensor 150. The image forming apparatus main body 110 stores recording sheets such as recording paper and postcards in the sheet storage section 111, and conveys the recording sheets stored in the sheet storage section 111 by the sheet conveying section 112. The image forming section 113 forms a color image or a monochrome image on the recording sheet conveyed by the sheet conveying section 112 based on image data transmitted from the document reading device 120 or image data or document data transmitted from an external source. The recording sheet on which the image has been formed by the image forming section 113 is discharged to a sheet discharge tray 114a in the sheet discharge section 114.

[0031] The human sensor 150 is a sensor that detects a person, and is provided on the front side of the image forming apparatus main body 110, that is, the surface on the side where the operator stands. The human sensor 150 is a sensor that detects whether a person is present or not within a predetermined limited detection range. The human sensor 150 has a directionality of a predetermined detection range. The human sensor 150 may be, for example, an ultrasonic type using ultrasonic waves, but may also be an infrared type human sensor using infrared rays, an optical type human sensor using visible light, a pyroelectric type human sensor, a sound type human sensor, a pressure type human sensor, or the like other than the ultrasonic type.

[0032] The billing device 130 is disposed adjacent to the image forming device main body 110, and is used by an operator, who is a user using the service of the image forming device 100 installed in a convenience store or the like, to insert coins or the like as payment.

[0033] In addition, the billing device 130 is equipped with an operation unit 131 for operating the image forming device 100, a deposit port 133 for inserting coins, a bill insertion port 132 for inserting bills, a return lever 134 that is operated by the operator (user) to request the return of change, which is the difference between the amount inserted at the end of use of the image forming device 100 and the usage fee for the service used, a refund port 135 through which the change is returned, and a photo ejection port 136 when printing photos (when using the photo print service).

[0034] The operation unit 131 is provided on the upper surface of the billing device 130 in an inclined state so that the operator can easily operate it. The operation unit 131 also has a display unit 131a capable of displaying images. The display unit 131a is a touch panel display that not only displays images related to operations, but also enables the operator to perform operations such as input by directly touching the screen of the display unit 131a. The display unit 131a can also display a preview of documents, images, etc. to be printed.

[0035] The deposit slot 133 and the bill insertion slot 132 are for an operator to deposit coins or bills as payment for using a service available in the image forming apparatus 100. The operator can use various functions (services available) in the image forming apparatus 100 by inserting coins or bills into the deposit slot 133 or the bill insertion slot 132 and then operating the operation unit 131 (display unit 131a). Here, examples of services available in the image forming apparatus 100 include a copy service, a facsimile service, a scan service, a photo print service, a network print service, a content service, and an administrative service.

[0036] Here, the copy service is a service for copying and outputting an original. The facsimile service is a service for transferring an original by facsimile. The scan service is a service for reading an original to form image data and writing the read image data to a storage medium such as a USB memory (not shown). The photo print service is a service for reading data captured by, for example, a camera from a storage medium and printing and outputting the photo. The network print service is a service for downloading data such as a document that an operator has previously uploaded to a server managed by an operator (not shown) via the Internet or the like, and printing and outputting the data.

[0037] The content service is a service for downloading content from a content server (not shown) managed by a content provider via the Internet, etc., and printing and outputting the content. The content includes, for example, photographs, photos, musical scores, newspapers, and maps. By using the content service, the content can be printed. In other words, by using the content service, the operator can obtain various contents. The administrative service is a service for downloading various certificates issued by local governments, etc., such as copies of resident records, certificates of details entered in resident records, seal registration certificates, family register certificates, copies of family register attachments, and tax certificates, via the Internet, etc., from a server (not shown) managed by a local government, etc., and printing and outputting the certificates. A usage fee is determined for each of these services, and the operator can use each service by depositing an amount equal to or greater than the usage fee into the deposit slot 133 or the bill insertion slot 132.

[0038] In addition, as will be described in detail later, image forming device 100 has a search function, and an operator can also use a search service on operation unit 131 (display unit 131a) to search for procedures (operation methods) for using each service to be used.

[0039] The return lever 134 is operated to return the change when the amount deposited is more than the fee for the service used, i.e., when there is change, upon completion of all the services used. The operator operates the return lever 134 when all the services used are completed. Specifically, by operating the return lever 134 downward, the change is returned to the return port 135.

[0040] Next, a control configuration in the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 2 is a block diagram that illustrates a control configuration of a control unit in the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] 2, in the image forming apparatus 100, the image forming apparatus main body 110 includes, in addition to the above, a control unit 180 for controlling the operation of each unit of the image forming apparatus 100. The control unit 180 also includes a processing unit 181 and a storage unit 184.

[0042] The control unit 180 is, for example, a microcomputer such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and includes storage devices such as a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and a rewritable non-volatile memory.

[0043] The storage unit 184 is a storage device for these. The storage unit 184 prestores programs and the like for controlling the operation of the image forming apparatus 100. The storage unit 184 also stores data relating to images and documents formed by the image forming unit 113 when the image forming apparatus 100 performs image formation, and stores data read by the document reading device 120, and the like. The CPU executes a predetermined program prestored in the storage unit 184, thereby realizing the function of the processing unit 181.

[0044] The processing unit 181 executes a control program stored in advance in the storage unit 184 to control the operation of various components in the image forming apparatus 100. Specifically, the processing unit 181 controls the operation of the image forming apparatus 100 according to an instruction input by an operator via the operation unit 131. For example, the processing unit 181 controls the operations of the document reading device 120, the image forming unit 113, the billing device 130, the human sensor 150, etc. The processing unit 181 also receives signals transmitted from the document reading device 120, the image forming unit 113, the billing device 130, the human sensor 150, etc., and controls the operation of the image forming apparatus 100 in response to these signals. For example, the processing unit 181 controls the display on the display unit 131a of the operation unit 131.

[0045] By such operation of the processing unit 181, the image forming apparatus 100 reads image data on a document and performs printing, which is image formation on a recording sheet, thereby providing a content service, a copy service, a photo print service, a scan service, and the like. The storage unit 184 provides the processing unit 181 with a work area for work, an image memory for storing image data, and an area serving as a memory for storing document data. The processing unit 181 also controls the display on the display unit 131a of the operation unit 131.

[0046] Here, the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment has a search function. The search function is a function that allows an operator to search for information on each service to be used, such as an operation method for receiving each service in the image forming apparatus 100. As described above, the operator of the image forming apparatus 100, who is a user, can use a plurality of services to be used in the image forming apparatus 100 by inserting coins or bills through the deposit slot 133 or the bill insertion slot 132. To use each service to be used, it is necessary to operate the operation unit 131 (display unit 131a), and various settings and the like must be input during the operation. This is not a problem for an operator who frequently uses the services to be used in the image forming apparatus 100, but for an operator who is not familiar with the service, the operation procedures for using each service to be used are complicated and may be difficult to operate. Therefore, by using the search function of the image forming apparatus 100, the operator can easily search for the operation procedures and the like that he or she desires, and can easily use the service to be used.

[0047] Furthermore, according to the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment, when an operator uses a search function and then subsequently attempts to use a service to be used, the operator can easily use the service to be used previously searched for by the search function. Specifically, when the operator uses the search function to search for information about the service to be used, such as an operation method, such as a method for starting (starting) the service to be used, and the operator finishes executing the service to be used, a portal screen, which is an initial screen displayed on the display unit 131a, displays a shortcut key for starting the service to be used that has just been executed.

[0048] As a result, when the operator attempts to execute the same service again after completing the execution of the service, the operator can easily execute the service by operating (pressing) the shortcut key without having to switch the display from the portal screen displayed on the display unit 131a to a keyword search screen for using the search function again and execute the search. Therefore, when the operator continues to execute the same service, the operator can easily use the service even if he / she is not familiar with the operation method.

[0049] Furthermore, according to the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment, when the operator uses the search function to search for the operation method of the service to be used and uses the service to be used, an explanatory video showing the operation method of the currently used service, such as how to start the service to be used, is displayed on the display unit 131a. As a result, when the operator continues to use the service to be used, the operator can easily use the service to be used by performing the same operation as the explanatory video displayed without needing to use the search function for the second or subsequent use.

[0050] In this way, according to the image forming apparatus 100, when a service is used by using the search function, the service can be easily used by operating the shortcut key when the service is subsequently used. Also, the service can be easily used by operating the explanatory video displayed on the display unit 131a when the service was used last time without operating the shortcut key. This reduces the number of times the search function is used, saves the trouble of operation, and improves work efficiency.

[0051] The operation of the image forming apparatus 100 when the operator uses the search function and then subsequently uses a service will be described below with reference to the drawing showing the display screen displayed on the display unit 131a. Note that the display on the display unit 131a is controlled by the processing unit 181 as described above.

[0052] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a first screen displayed by a display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a second screen displayed by a display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a third screen displayed by a display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a fourth screen displayed by a display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a fifth screen displayed by a display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing a sixth screen displayed by a display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] An operator, who is a user of the image forming apparatus 100, can insert coins into the deposit slot 133 or bills into the bill slot 132 to enable the image forming apparatus 100 to be used, and the first screen GM1 shown in Fig. 3 is displayed on the display unit 131a. The first screen GM1 is a portal screen, and is the first screen displayed when operating the image forming apparatus 100.

[0054] The operator operates the image forming apparatus 100 to use a desired service. For example, when using a copy service, the operator operates the first screen GM1 to display a start screen of the copy service on the display unit 131a and use the copy service. Note that there may be cases where the operator passes through multiple screens before reaching the start screen of the copy service.

[0055] Here, even if the operator does not know how to operate the device to display the start screen of the copy service on the display unit 131a, the operator can easily use the copy service, etc. by using the keyword search function.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 3, the first screen GM1 displays a first key 11 for displaying a keyword search screen on the display unit 131a for searching for an operation method of a service to be used. When the operator operates (presses) the first key 11, the display on the display unit 131a switches to a second screen GM2 (search screen) shown in FIG. 4. The second screen GM2 is a keyword search screen, and a character insertion field 20 is displayed. The operator can insert a keyword to be searched into the character insertion field 20 by operating the character keys displayed on the display unit 131a (operation unit 131). For example, if the operator wishes to use a single-sided copy, the operator can insert, for example, "copy" into the character insertion field 20 to perform a keyword search. Thereafter, the operator operates according to the guidance displayed on the display unit 131a, and a start screen for a single-sided copy service is displayed on the display unit 131a. The operator can operate the start screen for a single-sided copy service to perform a single-sided copy. In the first embodiment, the operator performs a full-color single-sided copy.

[0057] The first screen GM1 also displays a second key 12. The second key 12 is a key (button) for shifting the display on the display unit 131a to a start screen for each service to be used, and the operator can use a single-sided copy service by operating the second key 12 without operating the first key 11 to perform a keyword search. However, there are cases where the operator must go through multiple screens before reaching the start screen for each service to be used, such as a copy service.

[0058] When the operator finishes the single-sided copy, the display unit 131a displays the portal screen again. However, since the operator performed a keyword search (used the search function), in this case, the display unit 131a displays the third screen GM3 shown in FIG. 5 as the portal screen. As shown in FIG. 5, the third key 13 is displayed on the third screen GM3. The third key 13 is a shortcut key, and describes a service for which a method of operation was previously searched for by a keyword search. In the first embodiment, the third key 13 displays a character string "single-sided copy", which indicates the single-sided copy service that was just executed. In addition to displaying the name of the service for use on the third key 13, for example, the character string "copy" inserted in the character insertion field 20 during the keyword search may be displayed. When the operator looks at the third key 13, the display may be such that the operator can understand that the third key 13 is a shortcut key, and that by operating the third key 13, the operator can move to the service for use that was searched for by the keyword search.

[0059] Furthermore, the third key 13, which is a shortcut key, is no longer displayed on the portal screen when the operator has finished operating the image forming apparatus 100. This makes it possible to prevent the next operator from accidentally operating the third key 13. Whether or not the operator has finished operating the image forming apparatus 100 can be determined, for example, by detection by the human sensor 150 and a refund process.

[0060] The detection information of the human presence sensor 150 is transmitted to the processing unit 181, and the processing unit 181 can determine whether or not an operator is operating the image forming apparatus 100. If the human presence sensor 150 fails to continuously detect the presence of a person for a predetermined time (e.g., one minute) or more, it can be determined that the operator has finished operating the image forming apparatus 100. In addition, information on whether or not the return lever 134 has been operated and the change has been returned to the return port 135, that is, information on whether or not the return process has been performed, is transmitted to the processing unit 181, and if the return process has been performed, the processing unit 181 can determine that the operator's operation has ended.

[0061] In this way, when the processing unit 181 determines that the operator has finished operating the image forming apparatus 100, the processing unit 181 may hide the third key 13. Note that other methods may be used to determine that the operator has finished operating the image forming apparatus 100. For example, when no operation is performed on the operation unit 131 or the like of the image forming apparatus 100 for a predetermined time (e.g., one minute) or more, the processing unit 181 may determine that the operator has finished operating the image forming apparatus 100, and may hide the third key 13.

[0062] In addition, when the operator performs a single-sided copy service by performing a keyword search, an explanatory video (video related to the service) of the operation method such as how to start the single-sided copy service searched by the keyword search, that is, an explanatory video for moving to the start screen of the single-sided copy service, is displayed on the display unit 131a while the single-sided copy service is being performed. As this explanatory video, the fourth screen GM4 shown in Fig. 6, the fifth screen GM5 shown in Fig. 7, and the sixth screen GM6 shown in Fig. 8 are displayed in sequence on the display unit 131a.

[0063] The fourth screen GM4 is a screen in which a frame 12a is displayed so as to surround the second key 12 on the first screen GM1 which is a portal screen, thereby emphasizing the second key 12.

[0064] Furthermore, the fifth screen GM5 displays a number of keys for shifting the display on the display unit 131a to the start screen of each service. The fourth key 14 is displayed on the fifth screen GM5, and a frame 14a is displayed so as to surround the fourth key 14, emphasizing the fourth key 14. The fourth key 14 is a key operated to execute single-sided copying.

[0065] The sixth screen GM6 is a screen for selecting a color for copying, in which the fifth key 15 is displayed and a frame 15a is displayed to surround the fifth key 15 and emphasize the fifth key 15. The fifth key 15 is a key operated to execute a full-color copy.

[0066] The fourth screen GM4, the fifth screen GM5, and the sixth screen GM6 show the operations performed by the operator to execute the single-sided copy service from the first screen GM1, which is the portal screen, and are videos explaining that the single-sided copy service can be executed again by operating the second key 12, the fourth key 14, and the fifth key 15 highlighted by the frames 12a, 14a, and 15a on each screen.

[0067] In this way, in the image forming apparatus 100, when the operator searches for an operation method such as a method for starting a service to be used by using the search function and has completed the execution of the service to be used, the third key 13, which is a shortcut key, is displayed on the third screen GM3, which is a portal screen, displayed on the display unit 131a. Also, when the operator searches for an operation method or the like of a service to be used by using the search function and is using the service to be used, an explanatory video showing an operation method or the like of the currently used service to be used is displayed on the display unit 131a.

[0068] The explanatory video may be displayed during a period when the operator is not performing operations during execution of the single-sided copy service. For example, the display unit 131a may display the explanatory video during a period when the operator is not performing operations, such as when the image forming apparatus 100 is performing a copy operation after the operator has finished inputting operations. In addition, the display unit 131a may display the explanatory video after the copy operation is completed, that is, after execution of the single-sided copy service.

[0069] In addition, in the explanatory video, the second key 12, the fourth key 14, and the fifth key 15 are highlighted by the frames 12a, 14a, and 15a, but the key that the operator should operate next may be highlighted on the screen displayed on the display unit 131a when the operator is actually operating the keys, rather than in the explanatory video. This allows the operator to easily operate the image forming apparatus 100 by operating the highlighted keys in order.

[0070] Next, an example of a control operation in the image forming apparatus 100 will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a control operation in the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] 9, the processing unit 181 of the image forming apparatus 100 judges whether or not a keyword search has been performed (step S11). If the operator has not performed a keyword search (step S11: No), the process returns to step S11 again, but if the operator has performed a keyword search on the second screen GM2 (step S11: Yes), the processing unit 181 judges whether or not the service searched for by the operator through the keyword search is being executed (step S12).

[0072] When the processing unit 181 is not executing the service searched for by the operator (step S12: No), the process returns to step S11 again. When the service searched for by the operator is being executed (step S12: Yes), the processing unit 181 displays the explanatory video of the fourth screen GM4 to the sixth screen GM6 on the display unit 131a during the execution of the service (step S13).

[0073] Next, the processing unit 181 judges whether the service being used has ended (step S14). If the service being used has not ended (step S14: No), the process returns to step S14 again, but if the service being used has ended (step S14: Yes), the processing unit 181 displays the third screen GM3, which is a portal screen on which the third key 13, which is a shortcut key, is displayed, on the display unit 131a (step S15).

[0074] Next, the processing unit 181 determines whether the operator has operated the return lever 134 of the billing device 130 to perform the refund process (refund completed state), or whether the human presence sensor 150 has not detected the presence of a person in front of the image forming device 100 for a predetermined period of time (e.g., one minute) (operator absent state) (step S16).

[0075] If the state is neither refunded nor the operator is absent (step S16: No), the process returns to step S16. If the state is refunded or the operator is absent (step S16: Yes), the processor 181 removes the display of the third key 13 from the third screen GM3 (step S15) and ends the operation. That is, the processor 181 displays the first screen GM1 on the display unit 131a and ends the operation. Second embodiment An image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Since the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment has the same configuration as the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment described above, the same reference numerals are used for the respective members, and the description thereof will be omitted. Since the image forming apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment has a different display mode of the display unit 131a from the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment, this point will be described.

[0076] According to the image forming apparatus 100 of the second embodiment, when an operator, who is a user of the image forming apparatus 100, uses the search function and then tries to use a service to be used subsequently, the operator can easily use the service to be used previously searched for by the search function. Specifically, when the operator uses the search function to search for information about the service to be used, such as an operation method such as a method of starting (starting) the service to be used, and after completing the execution of the service to be used, uses the search function to execute the same service again and then uses the service to be used, an explanatory video showing an operation method such as a method of starting the service to be used repeatedly (a service to be used currently) is displayed on the display unit 131a. As a result, when the operator uses the search function to operate the same service to be used repeatedly, an explanatory video (a video related to the service) about the operation method is displayed, and the operator can easily use the service to be used by performing the same operation as the explanatory video. As a result, the number of times the search function is used can be reduced, the effort of the operation can be eliminated, and the work efficiency can be improved.

[0077] First, a screen displayed on display unit 131a of image forming apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment will be described. Note that in the second embodiment, an operator uses a search function for an operation method of a content service that is a service to be used.

[0078] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a seventh screen displayed by the display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an eighth screen displayed by the display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing a ninth screen displayed by the display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a tenth screen displayed by the display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing an eleventh screen displayed by the display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing a twelfth screen displayed by the display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing a thirteenth screen displayed by the display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing a fourteenth screen displayed by the display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0079] When an operator uses a content service through the image forming apparatus 100, the operator selects the desired content on the seventh screen GM7 shown in Fig. 10 displayed on the display unit 131a. The seventh screen GM7 is a start screen for the content service. When the operator selects the desired content, the screen displayed on the display unit 131a changes to the eighth screen GM8 shown in Fig. 11. The eighth screen GM8 is a screen on which the terms of use and the like are described, and on the eighth screen GM8 the operator selects whether to agree and continue the work or not.

[0080] The operator checks the type and quantity of content to be purchased, as well as the price, etc., on the ninth screen GM9 shown in Fig. 12, and if there are no problems, confirms it (presses "START") and continues the operation. As a result, the tenth screen GM10 shown in Fig. 13 is displayed on the display unit 131a, and the operator is asked to confirm whether or not to print the selected content. If there is a problem, such as an error in the content of the ninth screen GM9, the operator returns to the seventh screen GM7 and reselects the content.

[0081] When the user selects to start printing the content on the tenth screen GM10, the display on the display unit 131a shifts to an eleventh screen GM11 shown in Fig. 14, and then shifts to a twelfth screen GM12 shown in Fig. 15, and a thirteenth screen GM13 shown in Fig. 16. When the printing of the content is completed, a fourteenth screen GM14 shown in Fig. 17 is displayed on the display unit 131a, and the operator is notified that the printing is completed.

[0082] The operator selects whether to continue or end the content service on the fourteenth screen GM14 displayed on the display unit 131a.

[0083] The above is an explanation of the screens displayed on the display unit 131a and the operation procedures when the operator uses a content service through the image forming apparatus 100. For example, if the operator uses the search function to search for the operation method of this content service, uses the content service, and then ends the content service on the fourteenth screen GM14, and then uses the search function to search for the operation method of the content service again and starts using the content service, an explanatory video about the operation method of the content service that is a repeatedly used service is displayed on the display unit 131a when the content service is provided.

[0084] This explanatory video may be displayed by the display unit 131a when the operator does not need to operate the display unit 131a (operation unit 131) while repeatedly using the search function to operate the same service to receive the provision of the content service. For example, the explanatory video may be displayed between the display of the eleventh screen GM11 and the display of the twelfth screen GM12 during the operation, or between the display of the twelfth screen GM12 and the thirteenth screen GM13. Note that the explanatory video may be one that shows the operation method in the content service, and may be one that shows the operation method in the content service by displaying the seventh screen GM7 to the fourteenth screen GM14 in order, for example.

[0085] Next, an example of a control operation in the image forming apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of a control operation in the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0086] 18, the processing unit 181 of the image forming apparatus 100 judges whether or not the service to be used found by the keyword search has been executed (step S21). If the service to be used found by the keyword search has not been executed (step S21: No), the process returns to step S21 again, but if the service to be used found by the keyword search is being executed (step S21: Yes), the processing unit 181 executes a keyword search for the same service to be used as the previous time, and judges whether or not the service to be used is being executed (step S22).

[0087] Next, the processing unit 181 executes a keyword search for the same service used as the previous time, and if the service is not currently being used, the process returns to step S21 again. If the processing unit 181 executes a keyword search for the same service used as the previous time, and if the service is currently being used (step S22: Yes), the processing unit 181 displays an explanatory video on the display unit 131a while the service is being used (step S23).

[0088] Next, the processing unit 181 judges whether the service being used has ended (step S24). If the service being used has not ended (step S24: No), the process returns to step S24 again, but if the service being used has ended (step S24: Yes), the process ends. (Other embodiments) In the first embodiment, a case where a single-sided copy service is searched for as a service to be used is described, and in the second embodiment, a case where a content service is searched for as a service to be used is described, but other services may be used. Also, the explanatory video described in the first embodiment may be displayed on the display unit 131a of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment, and conversely, the explanatory video described in the second embodiment may be displayed on the display unit 131a of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0089] In addition, in both the first and second embodiments, the image forming apparatus 100 having a search function has been described, but the present disclosure may be realized by an information processing apparatus that is not limited to the image forming apparatus 100 and does not perform image formation processing.

[0090] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be implemented in various other forms. Therefore, the embodiments are merely illustrative in all respects and should not be interpreted as being limited. The scope of the present disclosure is indicated by the claims, and is not limited in any way by the text of the specification. Furthermore, all modifications and changes within the scope of the claims are within the scope of the present disclosure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0091] 11 1st key (operation key) 12 Second key (operation key) 13 3rd key (operation key, shortcut key) 14 4th key (operation key) 15 5th key (operation key) 12a, 13a, 14a, 15a slots 20 Character insertion field (search screen) 100 Image forming device (information processing device) 110 Image forming apparatus main body 111 Seat storage section 112 Sheet transport section 113 Image forming section 114 Sheet ejection section 114a Sheet ejection tray 120 Document reader 121 Document stand 122 Document reading section 123 Automatic document feeder 123a Document output tray 130 Charging device 131 Operation section 131a Display section 132 Bill slot 133 Deposit port 134 Return lever 135 Refund Port 136 Outlet 150 Motion Sensor 180 Control Unit 181 Processing section 184 Memory section GM1~GM14 1st to 14th screens

Claims

1. An information processing device that executes a plurality of services, A display unit is provided for displaying operation keys, a search function for searching for an operation for executing the service desired by an operator; An information processing device characterized in that a search is performed using the search function to search for operations for executing a specified service, and after the specified service is executed, the display unit displays a shortcut key for executing the specified service.

2. 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, the display unit executes the search function by displaying a search screen into which a character string related to the service can be input; The character string is a keyword or a service name, The information processing device is characterized in that the character string is displayed on the shortcut key.

3. 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, When the operator operates the shortcut key, The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display unit displays a start screen of the predetermined service.

4. 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the display unit stops displaying the shortcut keys when a refund process is performed or when an operator leaves the device after the specified service is executed.

5. An information processing device that executes a plurality of services, A display unit is provided for displaying operation keys, a search function for searching for an operation for executing the service desired by an operator; An information processing device characterized in that a search is performed using the search function to search for operations for executing a specified service, and during or after the specified service is being executed, the display unit displays a video related to the service for executing the specified service.

6. 6. The information processing device according to claim 5, An information processing device characterized in that a search is performed for operations required to execute the specified service using the search function, and during or after the specified service is being executed, the display unit sequentially highlights the operation keys that an operator needs to operate to execute the specified service.

7. An information processing device that executes a plurality of services, A display unit is provided for displaying operation keys, a search function for searching for an operation for executing the service desired by an operator; An information processing device characterized in that the search function performs a search multiple times for operations to execute the same service, and when the service is executed multiple times, the display unit displays a video related to the service for executing the service.

8. The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, An image forming apparatus capable of executing an image forming process.

Images