Control device and control program

Abstract

To eliminate the need for selecting whether to scroll a priority list or history list.SOLUTION: A control device disclosed herein comprises a display control unit for controlling display of a task selection screen designed to allow one task item to be selected from among multiple task items and to display side-by-side a priority list consisting of preset task items and a history list consisting of a history of task items executed in the past, where the display control unit allows the priority list and the history list to be scrolled together.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The technology of the present disclosure relates to a control device and a control program. [Background technology]

[0002] As information devices, there are known multifunction devices that perform multiple functions such as a copy function, a scan function, a fax function, and a print function. In order to allow easy and quick selection of a function to be executed in such information devices, devices that display a history list of previously used tasks are becoming widespread. Some devices also display tasks that have been executed frequently with priority.

[0003] Patent document 1 describes the provision of a display means for displaying a list of menu items recorded in history information, and an execution means for executing a process associated with a selected menu item when a menu item displayed in the list by the display means is selected, and for displaying frequently executed fixed menu items and history menu items on the same screen. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2006-185351 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1, fixed menu items and history menu items are displayed in separate areas, and when selecting a menu item, the fixed menu items and history menu items must be scrolled separately, which requires selection of which menu item to scroll.

[0006] Here, even if it is necessary to separately scroll a priority list (corresponding to the fixed menu described above), which is a list of pre-set task items, and a history list (corresponding to the history menu items described above), which is a list of task items that have been executed in the past, it is necessary to select which list to scroll.

[0007] The technology disclosed herein is To scroll a priority list and a history list in a direction in which a scroll operation is performed when the priority list or the history list is scrolled. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The first aspect is a control device that has a task selection screen for selecting one task item from a plurality of task items, and includes a display control unit that controls the display of the task selection screen that displays in parallel a priority list, which is a list of preset task items, and a history list, which is a history of task items that have been executed in the past, and the display control unit is capable of scrolling the priority list and the history list together.

[0009] A second aspect is the control device according to the first aspect, in which the task item is a task item for any one of a copy function, a scan function, a print function, and a facsimile function.

[0010] A third aspect is a control device according to the first or second aspect, in which the multiple task items include task items for different functions, and on the task selection screen, the task items are displayed in different colors for each function.

[0011] A fourth aspect is a control device relating to any one of the first to third aspects, in which a setting button is provided for task items in the priority list, and the display control unit is capable of performing one or more of rearranging the task items in the priority list, deleting a task item from the priority list, or changing the name of a task item based on the operation of the setting button.

[0012] A fifth aspect is the control device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the task items in the priority list are initially settable.

[0013] A sixth aspect is a control device relating to any one of the first to third aspects, in which a setting button is placed on a task item in a history list, and the display control unit is capable of performing one or more of moving to a priority list or deleting based on operation of the setting button.

[0014] A seventh aspect is a control device according to the third aspect, in which, when a desired task item is selected, a task execution screen for the selected task item is displayed, and the same color as that displayed in the task item is displayed on the task execution screen.

[0015] An eighth aspect is a control program for causing a computer to function as a control device, which is a task selection screen for selecting one task item from a plurality of task items, and includes a display control unit that controls the display of the task selection screen that displays in parallel a priority list, which is a list of preset task items, and a history list, which is a history of task items that have been executed in the past, and the display control unit is capable of scrolling the priority list and the history list together. Effect of the Invention

[0016] According to the technology of the present disclosure, To scroll a priority list and a history list in a direction in which a scroll operation is performed when the priority list or the history list is scrolled. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] FIG. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the multifunction peripheral; [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a control device. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 illustrates a task selection screen. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 illustrates a task execution screen. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a state in which the priority list and the history list are scrolled. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a state in which a setting button is displayed on a task item in a priority list. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a screen in a sorting mode. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing another example of a settings button displayed on a task item in a priority list. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a state in which a setting button is displayed on a task item in a history list. [Figure 11] 13 is a flowchart showing the flow of a display control process. [Figure 12] 13 is a flowchart showing the flow of a priority list editing process. [Figure 13] 13 is a flowchart showing the flow of a history list editing process. [Figure 14] 13 is a flowchart showing the flow of a display process of an execution screen. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0018] Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of the technology of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0019] (Multifunction machine 100) Fig. 1 is an external view of a multifunction peripheral 100 according to this embodiment. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the multifunction peripheral 100.

[0020] The multifunction device 100 shown in Figs. 1 and 2 is a device capable of executing processes related to functions such as copying, printing, scanning, and facsimile. As shown in Fig. 2, the multifunction device 100 includes a control device 110, a reading unit 102, an image forming unit 103, and a communication unit 104 in a main body unit 150. The multifunction device 100 is an example of an information device. The multifunction device 100 can also perform data communication with information processing devices such as personal computers and servers in an office connected to a LAN (Local Area Network) line or the like, and can perform facsimile communication with communication devices in other offices via public lines such as telephone lines. Therefore, the multifunction device 100 is also an example of an information communication device.

[0021] The operation panel 120, the control device 110 including the storage device 113, the reading unit 102, the image forming unit 103, and the communication unit 104 are all connected to one another via a bus 109. Each unit of the multifunction peripheral 100 will now be described.

[0022] (Reading unit 102, image forming unit 103, and communication unit 104) The reading unit 102 reads an image of a document. Specifically, the reading unit 102 optically reads the image of the document and converts it into a digital signal to generate image data.

[0023] The image forming unit 103 forms an image on a medium such as paper. Specifically, the image forming unit 103 forms an image on the medium by, for example, an electrophotographic method in which an image is formed by electrostatically attaching toner onto paper. Note that the image forming unit 103 may form an image on the medium by another method such as an inkjet method in which an image is formed by ejecting ink onto paper.

[0024] The communication unit 104 communicates with external devices such as other facsimile machines. Specifically, the communication unit 104 transmits and receives various data to and from external devices through various wired or wireless communication lines. Examples of communication lines include the Internet, an intranet, and a public telephone line.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 1, the multifunction peripheral 100 includes a document feeder 151 on the top of the main body 150. The document feeder 151 feeds a document to a document reading stage (not shown) arranged on the top surface of the main body 150. Inside the main body 150, the reading unit 102 is arranged at a position facing the reading stage. The document feeder 151 can be lifted up, and by lifting the document feeder 151 upward, the reading stage is exposed, and the reading stage can be used as a so-called flatbed type. This allows the user to directly set a document on the reading stage without going through the document feeder 151.

[0026] The image of the document is read by the reading unit 102, and image data is generated. When a process for the copy function is executed in the multifunction device 100, the image forming unit 103 prints the image of the document on another sheet of paper based on the image data generated by the reading unit 102. The sheet of paper on which the image is printed is discharged to a paper discharge unit 152 provided in the main body unit 150. When a process for the facsimile function is executed in the multifunction device 100, the image data generated by the reading unit 102 is output to the communication unit 104, and transmitted to a destination via the communication unit 104. When a process for the print function is executed in the multifunction device 100, the image forming unit 103 prints an image on a sheet of paper based on image data input from a personal computer or the like. The sheet of paper on which the image is printed is discharged to the paper discharge unit 152.

[0027] Additionally, inside main body 150 are provided a paper feed section in which paper is set, a paper transport mechanism that transports paper to image forming section 103 and paper discharge section 152, and the like.

[0028] (Operation panel 120) The multifunction device 100 includes an operation panel 120 that enables a user to operate the multifunction device 100. The operation panel 120 is an example of a user interface. A user interface is a device for exchanging information between the multifunction device 100 and a user, specifically, for inputting operation instructions from the user to the multifunction device 100 and displaying information such as the status of the multifunction device 100 to the user.

[0029] In this embodiment, the operation panel 120 specifically includes a display unit 121 and an operation unit 122, as shown in FIGS.

[0030] The display unit 121 displays an operation screen and various messages such as operation guides. The operation unit 122 is a component where the user performs input operations. The display unit 121 is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal display and an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display. The operation unit 122 and the display unit 121 are realized by a touch panel display 123 in which both are integrated. The operation unit 122 is a touch panel such as a resistive film type or a capacitive type, and detects a touch operation by the user. In the touch panel display 123, an area where the operation screen of the display unit 121 is displayed and an area where the touch operation of the operation unit 122 can be detected overlap with each other. As a result, when the user touches the operation screen displayed on the display unit 121, the operation unit 122 detects that a touch operation has been performed on the operation screen and the position where the touch operation has been performed on the operation screen, and outputs a detection signal to the control device 110.

[0031] The touch operation of the user includes operations such as tapping, flicking, sliding, and dragging. The tapping operation is an operation of touching the screen of the display unit 121 with a finger. The flicking operation is an operation of touching the screen of the display unit 121 as if sweeping a finger. The sliding operation is an operation of moving a finger while touching the screen of the display unit 121 with the finger. The dragging operation is an operation for moving an image such as an icon displayed on the display unit 121. The dragging operation is an operation of touching an image displayed on the display unit 121 with a finger, moving the finger that touched the image, and then releasing the finger from the image. The operation unit 122, which is a touch panel, outputs the movement trajectory of the finger associated with these touch operations on the operation screen as a detection signal. Note that the touching operation may be not only an operation by the user's finger, but also an operation using a tool such as a touch pen.

[0032] 1, the operation panel 120 has operation keys 124 arranged outside the screen of the display unit 121. The operation keys 124 include a power key for turning on the power of the multifunction device 100, and a cancel key for canceling various executions. In this way, the operation panel 120 of this embodiment has a mechanical operation unit in addition to the touch panel display 123 including the operation unit 122.

[0033] In this embodiment, the display unit 121 can display various operation screens such as a task selection screen 300 shown in Fig. 4 and a task execution screen 350 shown in Fig. 5. Details of the task selection screen 300 and the task execution screen 350 will be described later.

[0034] (Control device 110) The control device 110 is a device that controls each part of the multifunction device 100 including the operation panel 120. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 2, the control device 110 has a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 111, a memory 112, and a storage device 113. The control device 110 controls the multifunction device 100 based on information stored in the storage device 113.

[0035] The storage device 113 stores various programs including a control program 130, and various data including function control data 131 and UI (User Interface) control data 132. The control program 130 is a program that causes a computer including a CPU 111 to function as the control device 110. The function control data 131 is data used to control the reading unit 102, the image forming unit 103, and the communication unit 104, and includes various setting information and processing parameters. The processing parameters are parameters used when executing image correction processes such as gain correction, contrast correction, white balance correction, and gamma correction.

[0036] The various setting information includes setting information that specifies the processing conditions of the copy function, scan function, print function, and the like, which are realized by the reading unit 102, the image forming unit 103, and the communication unit 104. For example, in the case of the copy function and the print function, the setting information is setting information that specifies processing conditions such as paper size and color setting (e.g., black and white copy or color copy), and in the case of the scan function, the setting information is setting information that specifies processing conditions such as reading resolution and color setting (e.g., black and white reading or color reading). The setting information includes initial setting information as well as user setting information that is set by the user. The various setting information also includes a history of user setting information used by the user in the past.

[0037] The UI control data 132 includes various screen data constituting an operation screen displayed by the display unit 121, and various table data defining various setting items to be displayed on the operation screen. The storage device 113 is specifically realized by a recording device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or a flash memory.

[0038] The memory 112 is a working area for the CPU 111 to execute various programs, and temporarily records various programs or various data when the CPU 111 executes processing. The CPU 111 reads various programs including the control program 130 from the storage device 113 into the memory 112, and executes the programs using the memory 112 as a working area.

[0039] In the control device 110, the CPU 111 executes the control program 130 to realize various functions for controlling the multifunction device 100. The following describes the functional configuration realized by the cooperation of the CPU 111 as a hardware resource and the control program 130 as a software resource. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the CPU 111, and is mainly a block diagram showing the functional configuration for realizing the control of the operation panel 120.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 3, in the control device 110, a CPU 111 executes a control program 130 to function as a UI control unit 141 and a function control unit 144.

[0041] Function control unit 144 controls reading unit 102, image forming unit 103, and communication unit 104 while referring to function control data based on an operation instruction input from UI control unit 141. In addition, function control unit 144 outputs execution results and statuses of processes in reading unit 102, image forming unit 103, and communication unit 104 to UI control unit 141.

[0042] The UI control unit 141 receives an operation instruction input from the operation panel 120, and outputs the received operation instruction to the function control unit 144. The UI control unit 141 also controls the touch panel display 123. The UI control unit 141 has a display control unit 142 and an operation receiving unit 143 as functional components.

[0043] Operation reception unit 143 receives operation instructions input by a user through operation panel 120 , including a touch operation by the user detected by operation unit 122 of touch panel display 123 .

[0044] The display control unit 142 refers to the function control data 131 and the UI control data 132 and controls the display of various operation screens on the display unit 121 of the touch panel display 123.

[0045] Specifically, when the operation receiving unit 143 receives an operation to turn on the multifunction device 100, the display control unit 142 displays a task selection screen 300 (see FIG. 4) as a top screen on the display unit 121, for example. The task selection screen 300 is a screen for the user to select a task item 301 (see FIG. 4) to be executed by the multifunction device 100. Here, a task is a process that is executed by the multifunction device 100 after the user sets processing conditions for the main functions of the multifunction device 100. An item including information indicating the content of this process is called a task item 301. For example, in the case of a copy function, which is one of the main functions of the multifunction device 100, a process that is executed by the multifunction device 100 after the user sets processing conditions such as paper size and color settings is a task of the copy function, and an item indicating the content of this task is the task item 301. Similarly, in the case of the scan function, the user sets processing conditions such as reading resolution and color settings, and then the process that is executed by the multifunction device 100 is the task of the scan function, and the item indicating the content of this task is task item 301.

[0046] Thus, there are various types of task items 301 indicating tasks and their contents according to the type of function and the processing conditions. A plurality of task items 301 with different types of function and processing conditions are displayed on the task selection screen 300. The task selection screen 300 is a selection screen for selecting one task item 301 from the plurality of task items 301 when causing the multifunction device 100 to execute one task.

[0047] The various setting information of the function control data 131 includes priority list information 11 and history list information 12. The storage device 113 is a priority list recording section in which the priority list information 11 is recorded, and is also a history list recording section in which the history list information 12 is recorded. The priority list information 11 is information in which a plurality of task items 301 that have been set in advance are recorded. The task items 301 included in the priority list information 11 include, for example, task items that have been set in advance because they are frequently executed. The task items 301 included in the priority list information 11 may be initially set at the time of product shipment, or may be set by the user.

[0048] The history list information 12 is information that records the history of task items 301 that have been executed in the past by the multifunction device 100. The priority list information 11 records the name and order of each task item 301. The history list information 12 records the name of each task item 301 and the execution date and time when each task item 301 was executed.

[0049] The display control unit 142 generates a task selection screen 300 including a priority list 1 and a history list 2 by referring to the priority list information 11 and the history list information 12. Specifically, when generating the priority list 1, the display control unit 142 arranges the task items 301 in the priority list 1 in order based on the names and arrangement order of the task items 301 included in the priority list information 11 to generate the priority list 1. Furthermore, when generating the history list 2, the display control unit 142 arranges the task items 301 in the history list 2 in order based on the names and execution dates and times of the task items 301 included in the history list information 12 to generate the history list 2. Then, the display control unit 142 displays the priority list 1 and the history list 2 in parallel on the task selection screen 300.

[0050] As a result, as shown in Fig. 4, the display control unit 142 displays, in parallel, a priority list 1, which is a list of preset task items 301, and a history list 2, which is a history of task items 301 previously executed on the multifunction device 100, on the task selection screen 300. In Fig. 4, as an example, the priority list 1 is displayed at the top of the task selection screen 300, and the history list 2 is displayed at the bottom.

[0051] The task items 301 in the history list 2 are displayed in chronological order based on the execution dates and times of the task items 301 recorded in the history list information 12. Specifically, as an example, the task items 301 are displayed in the direction of the arrow X2 starting from the task item 301 with the most recent execution date and time. Therefore, the most recently executed task item 301 is displayed at the top of the history list 2 (i.e., the position closest to the X1 direction).

[0052] As described above, each of the multiple task items 301 included in the priority list 1 or the history list 2 is a task item for any one of the four main functions of the multifunction device 100, that is, the copy function, the scan function, the print function, and the facsimile function. In this way, the task items 301 registered in the priority list 1 or the history list 2 correspond to any one of the four main functions of the multifunction device 100. In other words, supplementary functions of the multifunction device 100 other than the four main functions are excluded from the functions registered in the priority list 1 or the history list 2. Therefore, the task items 301 registered in the priority list 1 and the history list 2 are limited to those related to the main functions that are executed relatively frequently, so that the priority list 1 and the history list 2 are easy for the user to use. It is preferable that at least one of the multiple task items 301 registered in the priority list 1 or the history list 2 includes a task item 301 for the copy function that is considered to be executed relatively frequently among the four main functions.

[0053] In addition, the task items 301 in the priority list 1 can be customized by the user. Specifically, as will be described later, the task items 301 in the priority list 1 can be rearranged, their names can be changed, and task items 301 can be added from the history list 2.

[0054] Furthermore, each time the task item 301 is executed by the multifunction device 100, the function control unit 144 adds data of the executed task item 301 to the history list information 12. Then, when the history list information 12 is updated, the display control unit 142 updates the history list 2 on the task selection screen 300.

[0055] Furthermore, on the task selection screen 300, a setting button 8 for displaying a registration menu 9 (see FIG. 10) is displayed to the right of the task item 301 in the history list 2.

[0056] To the right of the task item 301 in the priority list 1, there are displayed a pinned display 5 indicating that it is a task item 301 in the priority list 1, and a setting button 6 for displaying a registration menu 7 (see FIG. 7). The pinned display 5 indicates that it is a task item 301 whose display will not be updated even if other task items are executed.

[0057] 4, in the task selection screen 300 of this embodiment, for example, "black and white copy" 1a, "color copy" 2a, "fax" 2b, and "scan" 2c are displayed as task items 301. Note that the user name is also displayed in the task items 301 of "fax" 2b and "scan" 2c. In the priority list 1, "black and white copy" 1a, which is executed frequently, is displayed.

[0058] A color display section 3 that displays a specific color is arranged on the left side of each task item 301. The same color is displayed on the color display section 3 arranged on the same copy function "black and white copy" 1a and "color copy" 2a. In other words, the task items 301 include task items for multiple functions selected from the four main functions of the multifunction device 100, that is, copy function, fax function, scan function, and print function, and the task items 301 are displayed in different colors for each function on the task selection screen 300. In this embodiment, multiple task items 301 corresponding to the same function are bundled as the same type of task items 301 and given the same color. What kind of task items 301 are bundled as the same type of task items 301 is set in advance. Information on what kind of task items 301 are the same type of task items 301 and what colors are given to them is recorded, for example, in table data of the UI control data 132. The display control section 142 refers to the data and displays the color display section 3. As a result, the color of the color display section 3 is determined, and the color display section 3 is displayed. As an example other than bundling task items 301 with the same corresponding function as the same type of task items 301, "Fax" 2b and "Scan" 2c, which are task items 301 with the same "user," may be grouped as the same type of task items 301, and the same color may be assigned to these task items 301. Also, the color of the color display section 3 may be configured to be changeable by a setting change operation by the user.

[0059] As described above, on the task selection screen 300, the priority list 1 and the history list 2 are displayed on the same task selection screen 300.

[0060] Note that the task selection screen 300 may display lists for each user as the priority list 1 and the history list 2. In this case, for example, the display unit 121 authenticates the user via the operation unit 122, and displays the priority list 1 and history list 2 of the authenticated user on the task selection screen. Furthermore, in this case, the priority list information 11 is information corresponding to the priority list 1 linked to each user, and the task items 301 included in the priority list information 11 for each user can be set for each user. Also, the history list information 12 is information corresponding to the history list 2 linked to each user, and the task items 301 included in the history list information 12 for each user are updated based on the history of each user.

[0061] When the operation unit 122 detects a scroll operation on the priority list 1 or the history list 2 on the task selection screen 300, the operation reception unit 143 receives an operation instruction for the scroll operation. This operation instruction is input to the display control unit 142. Based on the input operation instruction for the scroll operation, the display control unit 142 scrolls the priority list 1 and the history list 2 together as shown in Fig. 6. Specifically, the scroll operation is a flick operation in the direction of the arrow X1 or the direction of the arrow X2 (see Fig. 4).

[0062] In this way, when scrolling the two lists, priority list 1 and history list 2, on the task selection screen 300, the display control unit 142 handles priority list 1 and history list 2 as an integrated list. In other words, when scrolling, priority list 1 and history list 2 are not distinguished from each other, but are scrolled as one integrated list.

[0063] In the task selection screen 300, in the state shown in Fig. 4, scrolling is possible only in the X1 direction in which the number of displayed task items 301 in the priority list 1 decreases. Therefore, in the task selection screen 300, in the state shown in Fig. 4, only a flick operation in the X1 direction is valid. After scrolling the priority list 1 and the history list 2 in the X1 direction, scrolling in the X2 direction is also possible.

[0064] The priority list 1 and the history list 2 are scrolled by moving the priority list 1 and the history list 2 in the X1 or X2 direction in which the flick operation is performed. As a result, task items 301 that were not displayed are sequentially displayed on the task selection screen 300. Note that Fig. 6 shows a state in which one task item 301 in the priority list 1 and the history list 2 has moved in the direction of the arrow X1 from the state shown in Fig. 4. As described above, in this embodiment, the priority list 1 and the history list 2 can be scrolled together when scrolling the task selection screen 300.

[0065] Furthermore, a setting button 6 is disposed on the task item 301 in the priority list 1. The display control unit 142 can execute one or more of the following, based on the operation of the setting button 6: deleting the task item 301 from the priority list 1, or changing the name of the task item 301.

[0066] For example, when the operation unit 122 detects an operation (specifically, a flick operation or a tap operation) on the setting button 6 of the priority list 1, the operation reception unit 143 receives an operation instruction for the operation of the setting button 6. Based on the operation instruction received by the operation reception unit 143, the display control unit 142 displays a registration menu 7 as shown in Fig. 7. In the registration menu 7, a rearrangement button 7a for the task items 301, a delete button 7b, and a rename button 7c are arranged.

[0067] When the operation unit 122 detects an operation on the rearrangement button 7a (specifically, a flick operation or a tap operation), the operation reception unit 143 receives an operation instruction for the operation of the rearrangement button 7a. Based on the operation instruction received by the operation reception unit 143, the display control unit 142 transitions the task selection screen 300 displayed on the display unit 121 to a rearrangement mode. When the task selection screen 300 transitions to the rearrangement mode, a move operation (specifically, a drag operation) of the task item 301 in the priority list 1 becomes possible, as shown by the arrow A in FIG.

[0068] In the rearrangement mode, when the operation unit 122 detects a move operation of the task item 301 in the priority list 1 of the task selection screen 300, the operation reception unit 143 receives an operation instruction for the move operation. Based on the operation instruction received by the operation reception unit 143, the display control unit 142 moves the task item 301 in the priority list 1 to change the order of the task items 301.

[0069] That is, when the operation unit 122 detects a drag operation, the display control unit 142 rewrites the order of the task items 301 recorded in the priority list information 11, and displays the priority list 1 in the rewritten order. Note that the display control unit 142 may cancel the sorting mode after a predetermined time has elapsed, and display the original task selection screen 300.

[0070] Further, the rearrangement button 7a may be a rearrangement button 7a1 (see FIG. 9) having a movement instruction function for moving the task item 301 to the top of the priority list 1. In the example shown in FIG. 9, when the operation unit 122 detects an operation on the rearrangement button 7a1 (specifically, a flick operation or a tap operation), the display control unit 142 moves the task item 301 for which the rearrangement button 7a1 has been operated to the top of the priority list 1 and displays the priority list 1. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the task item 301 can be moved without switching to the rearrangement mode, which simplifies the operation.

[0071] When the operation unit 122 detects an operation on the delete button 7b (specifically, a flick operation or a tap operation), the display control unit 142 deletes the task item 301 in the priority list 1. That is, when the operation unit 122 detects an operation on the delete button 7b, one task item 301 instructed to be deleted is deleted from the priority list information 11, and the display control unit 142 displays the priority list 1 based on the priority list information 11 after the deletion. Furthermore, the display control unit 142 fills up the deleted space and displays the priority list 1 and the history list 2. That is, the display control unit 142 increases the task items 301 in the history list 2 by the number of task items 301 deleted from the priority list 1, and displays new priority list 1 and history list 2 in which the number of task items 301 has been changed.

[0072] When the operation unit 122 detects an operation (specifically, a flick operation or a tap operation) on the name change button 7c, the display control unit 142 transitions the task selection screen 300 to a name input screen (not shown). When the task selection screen 300 transitions to the name input screen, it becomes possible to input a new name after the change. Specifically, for example, a keyboard screen is displayed as the name input screen, and it becomes possible to input a new name from the keyboard. For example, a confirm button and a cancel button are provided on this keyboard screen.

[0073] On the name input screen, when operation unit 122 detects a confirmation operation (specifically, a flick operation or a tap operation on the above-mentioned confirmation button) after inputting a new name, display control unit 142 changes the name of task item 301 in priority list 1. That is, when operation unit 122 detects a confirmation operation after inputting a new name, display control unit 142 changes the name of task item 301 recorded in priority list information 11, and display control unit 142 displays task item 301 based on the data of the changed name of task item 301.

[0074] In this way, the task items 301 in the priority list 1 can be changed by the user. Also, the task items 301 in the priority list 1 may be initially set at the time of product shipment. In this case, for example, a task item 301 that is generally executed frequently is set. The initial setting information is recorded in the priority list information 11 as described above.

[0075] Furthermore, a setting button 8 is arranged in the task item 301 in the history list 2. When the operation unit 122 detects an operation (specifically, a flick operation or a tap operation) on the setting button 8 in the history list 2, the display control unit 142 displays a registration menu 9 as shown in Fig. 10. In the registration menu 9, a delete button 9a and a move button 9b are arranged.

[0076] When the operation unit 122 detects an operation on the delete button 9a (specifically, a flick operation or a tap operation), the display control unit 142 deletes the task item 301 from the history list 2. That is, when the operation unit 122 detects an operation on the delete button 9a, one task item 301 that is instructed to be deleted is deleted from the history list information 12, and the display control unit 142 displays the history list 2 based on the history list information 12 after the deletion. Furthermore, the display control unit 142 fills up the deleted position and displays the history list 2. That is, the display control unit 142 adds the hidden task item 301 to the history list 2 in place of the task item 301 deleted from the history list 2, and displays the new history list 2.

[0077] When the operation unit 122 detects an operation on the move button 9b (specifically, a flick operation or a tap operation), the display control unit 142 moves the task item 301 in the history list 2 to the priority list 1. That is, when the operation unit 122 detects an operation on the move button 9b, the task item 301 instructed to be moved is added to the priority list information 11, and the display control unit 142 displays a new priority list 1 based on the priority list information 11 to which the task item 301 has been added. At this time, the order of the task items 301 in the priority list information 11 is rewritten so that the task item 301 instructed to be moved is added, for example, to the bottom of the priority list 1 (the position closest to the X2 direction). Furthermore, the data of the task item 301 moved to the priority list 1 is deleted from the history list information 12.

[0078] In this manner, in this embodiment, a task item in the history list 2 can be moved to the priority list 1 by a move operation by the user. Note that if a task item 301 that has been moved from the history list 2 to the priority list 1 is deleted from the priority list 1 by operating the delete button 7b, it may be returned to the history list 2.

[0079] When the operation unit 122 detects a selection operation on the task item 301 in the priority list 1 and the history list 2, the display control unit 142 causes the display unit 121 to display a task execution screen 350 (see FIG. 5).

[0080] The task execution screen 350 displays setting items for making various settings and a slide button 10 for executing a task. Various settings are made by operating these setting items. In addition, a color display section 4 is disposed at the top of the task selection screen. When the task execution screen 350 is displayed, the color display section 4 uses the same color as the color display section 3 of the selected task item 301.

[0081] The task execution screen 350 shown in Fig. 5 is the task execution screen 350 when "color copy" is selected from the task items 301 on the task selection screen 300 shown in Fig. 4. In the color display section 4 of the task execution screen shown in Fig. 5, the same color as that displayed in the color display section 3 of "color copy" 2a of the task item 301 is displayed to indicate that the copy function has been selected.

[0082] In this embodiment, the instruction operation for instructing the multifunction device 100 to execute tasks of various functions is a slide operation on the slide button 10 on the task execution screen 350. When the operation unit 122 detects the slide operation, the operation acceptance unit 143 instructs the function control unit 144 to execute a task corresponding to the task item 301 selected on the task selection screen 300. Based on this instruction, the function control unit 144 controls the operation of each unit, that is, the reading unit 102, the image forming unit 103, and the communication unit 104, to execute the task.

[0083] (Action of this embodiment) Next, an example of the operation of this embodiment will be described.

[0084] When the multifunction peripheral 100 is started by turning on the power, the CPU 111 executes the control program 130 read from the storage device 113. As a result, the CPU 111 functions as a UI control unit 141 and a function control unit 144, and starts the control process.

[0085] 11, as an example, the UI control unit 141 displays a task selection screen 300 (see FIG. 4) as a top screen on the display unit 121 of the touch panel display 123 (step S301). Specifically, the UI control unit 141 reads out the priority list information 11 and history list information 12 included in the function control data 131, and the UI control data 132, and generates the task selection screen 300 including a priority list 1 and a history list 2. On this task selection screen 300, a plurality of task items 301 included in each of the priority list 1 and the history list 2 are displayed.

[0086] The UI control unit 141 waits for input of a touch operation on the task selection screen 300 displayed on the display unit 121. First, in step S302, the UI control unit 141 determines whether or not a scroll operation has been performed on the task selection screen 300. If a task item 301 desired by the user is not displayed on the task selection screen 300, the user performs a scroll operation on the task selection screen 300 via the touch panel display 123 in order to display the hidden task item 301. As an example, the scroll operation is a flick operation in the direction of the arrow X1.

[0087] When a scroll operation is performed on the task selection screen 300 (step S302: YES), the UI control unit 141 scrolls the task selection screen 300 (step S303). More specifically, in step S303, the UI control unit 141 handles the priority list 1 and the history list 2 as one integrated list, and scrolls the priority list 1 and the history list 2 together. For example, when performing a scroll operation, regardless of whether the user's finger touches the display area of ​​the priority list 1 or the history list 2 on the touch panel display 123, both the priority list 1 and the history list 2 are scrolled because the priority list 1 and the history list 2 are handled as one integrated list.

[0088] As a result, for example, in the task selection screen 300 shown in Fig. 4, when the scroll direction is the X1 direction, the topmost task item 301 in the priority list 1 becomes hidden, and instead, the hidden task item 301 located below the bottommost task item 301 in the history list 2 enters the display area and is displayed. As an example, the task selection screen 300 changes from the state shown in Fig. 4 to the state shown in Fig. 6. The user searches for the desired task item 301 in the task selection screen 300 by performing such a scroll operation.

[0089] If the scrolling operation is not performed (step S302: NO), or if the scrolling operation is stopped after being performed in step S303, the UI control unit 141 proceeds to step S304.

[0090] In step S304, the UI control unit 141 determines whether or not an operation (specifically, a flick operation or a tap operation) has been performed on the setting button 6 of the priority list 1. If the setting button 6 of the priority list 1 has been operated (step S304: YES), the UI control unit 141 executes an editing process of the priority list 1, which will be described later (step S400).

[0091] If the setting button 6 of the priority list 1 is not operated (step S304: NO), the UI control unit 141 determines whether or not an operation (specifically, a flick operation or a tap operation) has been performed on the setting button 8 of the history list 2 (step S305). If an operation has been performed on the setting button 8 of the history list 2 (step S305: YES), the UI control unit 141 executes an editing process of the history list 2, which will be described later (step S500).

[0092] If the setting button 8 of the history list 2 is not operated (step S305: NO), the UI control unit 141 proceeds to step S306.

[0093] In step S306, the UI control unit 141 determines whether or not a selection operation has been performed on any of the task items 301 in the task selection screen 300. If a selection operation has been performed on any of the task items 301 (step S306: YES), the process proceeds to step S600, where the UI control unit 141 executes a display process for the task execution screen 350 (see FIG. 5) corresponding to the function of the selected task item 301. After executing step S600, the UI control unit 141 returns to step S301 and waits for input of a touch operation.

[0094] Moreover, in step S306, if the task item 301 is not selected (step S306: NO), the UI control unit 141 returns to step S302 and repeats the above-mentioned processing.

[0095] It should be noted that the control process shown in FIG. 11 ends, for example, when the power of the multifunction device 100 is turned off, regardless of which step is being executed.

[0096] (Editing Priority List 1) FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing the flow of the editing process of the priority list 1 executed by the control device 110 (step S400 in FIG. 11).

[0097] 12, when the UI control unit 141 starts executing the editing process of the priority list 1, it displays the registration menu 7 (see FIG. 7) for the task item 301 for which the setting button 6 has been operated (step S401). The registration menu 7 includes a sort button 7a, a delete button 7b, and a rename button 7c.

[0098] Next, the UI control unit 141 determines whether or not an operation (specifically, a flick operation or a tap operation) has been performed on the sort button 7a (step S402). If an operation has been performed on the sort button 7a (step S402: YES), the UI control unit 141 transitions the task selection screen displayed on the display unit 121 to a sorting mode (step S403). If an operation has not been performed on the sort button 7a in step S402 (step S402: NO), the UI control unit 141 transitions to step S410.

[0099] When the task selection screen 300 transitions to the rearrangement mode, as shown by the arrow A in FIG. 8, a move operation (specifically, a drag operation) of the task item 301 in the priority list 1 becomes possible.

[0100] Next, in the rearrangement mode, the UI control unit 141 determines whether or not a move operation has been performed on the task item 301 in the priority list 1 of the task selection screen 300 (step S404). If a move operation has been performed on the task item 301 in the priority list 1 of the task selection screen 300 (step S404: YES), the UI control unit 141 changes the order of the task items 301 by moving the task item 301 in the priority list 1 (step S405). If the UI control unit 141 does not detect a move operation on the task item 301 in the priority list 1 of the task selection screen 300 (step S404: NO), it repeats step S404.

[0101] In step S410, the UI control unit 141 determines whether or not an operation (specifically, a flick operation or a tap operation) has been performed on the delete button 7b (step S410). If an operation has been performed on the delete button 7b (step S410: YES), the UI control unit 141 deletes the task item 301 from the priority list 1 (step S411). If an operation has not been performed on the delete button 7b (step S410: NO), the UI control unit 141 proceeds to step S420.

[0102] In step S420, the UI control unit 141 determines whether or not an operation (specifically, a flick operation or a tap operation) has been performed on the name change button 7c. If an operation has been performed on the name change button 7c (step S420: YES), the UI control unit 141 transitions the task selection screen 300 to a name input screen (not shown) (step S421). If an operation has not been performed on the name change button 7c (step S420: NO), the UI control unit 141 returns to step S402.

[0103] When the task selection screen 300 transitions to a name input screen (not shown), it becomes possible to input a new name after the change. Next, the UI control unit 141 determines whether or not a confirmation operation has been performed after inputting the new name on the name input screen (step S423). If the confirmation operation has been performed (step S423: YES), the UI control unit 141 changes the name of the task item 301 in the priority list 1 (step S424). Note that if the CPU 111 does not detect the confirmation operation (step S423: NO), it repeats step S423.

[0104] When an operation to stop the editing process shown in Fig. 12 is performed in the middle of the editing process, the UI control unit 141 ends the editing process shown in Fig. 12 regardless of which step is being executed. When the UI control unit 141 ends the editing process shown in Fig. 12, the process returns to step S301 in Fig. 11.

[0105] 12, in this embodiment, the editing process of the priority list 1 (step S400) is to end after each of the processes of steps S405, S411, and S424 is completed once. However, after each of the processes of steps S405, S411, and S424 is completed once, the process may return to step S401 and wait for the next editing instruction.

[0106] (Editing history list 2) FIG. 13 is a flow chart showing the process of editing the history list 2 (step S500 in FIG. 11) executed by the control device 110. As shown in FIG.

[0107] 13, when the UI control unit 141 starts executing the editing process of the history list 2, it displays the registration menu 9 (see FIG. 10) for the task item 301 for which the setting button 8 has been operated (step S501). In the registration menu 9, a delete button 9a and a move button 9b are arranged.

[0108] Next, the UI control unit 141 determines whether or not an operation on the delete button 9a (specifically, a flick operation or a tap operation) is detected (step S502). If an operation on the delete button 9a is detected (step S502: YES), the UI control unit 141 deletes the task item 301 from the history list 2 (step S503). If no operation is performed on the delete button 9a (step S502: NO), the UI control unit 141 proceeds to step S510.

[0109] In step S510, the UI control unit 141 determines whether or not an operation (specifically, a flick operation or a tap operation) has been performed on the move button 9b. If an operation on the move button 9b has been detected (step S510: YES), the UI control unit 141 moves the task item 301 in the history list 2 to the priority list 1 (step S511). If no operation has been performed on the move button 9b (step S510: NO), the UI control unit 141 returns to step S502.

[0110] When an operation to stop the editing process shown in Fig. 13 is performed in the middle of the editing process, the UI control unit 141 ends the editing process shown in Fig. 13 regardless of which step is being executed. When the UI control unit 141 ends the editing process shown in Fig. 13, the process returns to step S301 in Fig. 11.

[0111] 13, in this embodiment, the editing process of the history list 2 (step S500) is to end after each of the processes of steps S503 and S511 is completed once. However, after each of the processes of steps S503 and S511 is completed once, the process may return to step S501 and wait for the next editing instruction.

[0112] (Display process of task execution screen 350) FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the flow of the display process of the task execution screen 350 executed by the control device 110.

[0113] As shown in FIG. 14, when the UI control unit 141 starts the execution of the display process of the task execution screen 350, it displays the task execution screen 350 (see FIG. 5) (step S601).

[0114] Next, the UI control unit 141 determines whether or not an instruction operation has been performed to instruct execution of a task corresponding to the selected task item (specifically, a slide operation on the slide button 10) (step S602). If the instruction operation has been performed (step S602: YES), the UI control unit 141 proceeds to step S604. If the instruction operation has not been performed (step S602: NO), the UI control unit 141 repeats step S602.

[0115] When the selected task has been executed, the UI control unit 141 adds a task item 301 for the executed task to the history list 2 (step S604), and ends the process of step S600 shown in FIG.

[0116] If an operation to stop the process is performed during the process of step S600 shown in Fig. 14, the UI control unit 141 ends the process of step S600 regardless of which step is being executed. When the UI control unit 141 ends this process, the process returns to step S301 in Fig. 11.

[0117] (Effects of this embodiment) As described above, in this embodiment, when a scroll operation is performed on the task selection screen 300 (see FIG. 4) (step S302: YES), the UI control unit 141 scrolls the priority list 1 and the history list 2 together (step S303). Therefore, when selecting a task item 301 on the task selection screen (see FIG. 4), there is no need to select whether to scroll the priority list 1 or the history list 2.

[0118] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when priority list 1 and history list 2 are scrolled in the direction of arrow X1 on task selection screen 300, the number of task items 301 displayed on priority list 1 decreases, and eventually priority list 1 disappears from task selection screen 300. This expands the display area of ​​history list 2, and history list 2 is displayed over the entire screen. Therefore, the number of task items 301 on history list 2 increases, and the task items 301 can be selected quickly from history list 2. Furthermore, when the number of task items 301 on priority list 1 is large, it is also possible to display the task items 301 on priority list 1 over the entire screen by scrolling. In this case, the task items 301 can be selected quickly from priority list 1.

[0119] In this way, by scrolling the priority list 1 and the history list 2 together, it is possible to prevent either the priority list 1 or the history list 2 from constantly occupying a portion of the display area. Therefore, it is possible to increase the display area of ​​one of the priority list 1 and the history list 2 compared to the conventional technology in which the priority list 1 and the history list 2 are scrolled separately.

[0120] In this embodiment, the multiple task items 301 on the task selection screen 300 are task items for any of the following functions: copy function, scan function, print function, and facsimile function. The task items 301 registered in the priority list 1 and the history list 2 are narrowed down to task items for the four main functions that are executed relatively frequently in the multifunction device 100, so that the priority list 1 and the history list 2 are easy for the user to use. It is preferable that at least one of the multiple task items 301 registered in the priority list 1 or the history list 2 includes a task item 301 for the copy function, which is considered to be executed relatively frequently among the four main functions.

[0121] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the multiple task items 301 include task items 301 for different functions (for example, a copy function, a scan function, and a print function), and on the task selection screen 300, as shown by the color display unit 3 disposed to the left of each task item 301, a different color is displayed for each function of the task items 301. Therefore, the function of the task to be executed can be intuitively grasped by the color, which serves as a guide for selecting a task and prevents erroneous operations.

[0122] In this embodiment, in the editing process of the priority list 1 (see FIG. 12), it is possible to rearrange, delete, or change the name of the task items 301 in the priority list 1. This allows the user to customize the task items 301 in the priority list 1 according to their own usage pattern, thereby improving operability.

[0123] In this embodiment, the task items 301 in the priority list 1 can be initially set. Therefore, task items 301 that are frequently executed at the time of product shipment, etc. can be included in the priority list 1. This reduces the burden on the user of setting the task items 301.

[0124] In this embodiment, in the editing process of the history list 2 (see FIG. 13), it is possible to move or delete the task item 301 in the history list 2 to the priority list 1. This allows the user to customize the task items 301 in the priority list 1 and the history list 2 according to their own usage pattern, thereby improving operability.

[0125] In this embodiment, the same color as that displayed in the task item 301 on the task selection screen is displayed on the task execution screen 350. This allows the user to intuitively grasp the function to be executed by the color, and prevents erroneous operations.

[0126] In the above embodiment, various processors shown below can be used as the hardware structure of the processing unit that executes various processes, such as the UI control unit 141, the display control unit 142, the operation reception unit 143, and the function control unit 144. The various processors include the CPU 111, which is a general-purpose processor that executes software (programs) and functions as various processing units, as well as dedicated electric circuits that are processors having a circuit configuration designed specifically for executing specific processes, such as a PLD (programmable logic device) such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) that can change the circuit configuration after manufacture, and an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit).

[0127] The above-mentioned various processes may be executed by one of these various processors, or may be executed by a combination of two or more processors of the same or different types (e.g., a plurality of FPGAs, a combination of a CPU and an FPGA, etc.). A plurality of processing units may be configured by a single processor. An example of configuring a plurality of processing units by a single processor is a form that uses a processor that realizes the functions of the entire system including a plurality of processing units by a single IC (Integrated Circuit) chip, such as a system on chip (SoC).

[0128] In this way, the various processing units are configured as a hardware structure using one or more of the various processors described above.

[0129] Furthermore, more specifically, the hardware structure of these various processors can be an electric circuit that combines circuit elements such as semiconductor elements.

[0130] In addition to the control program of the control device, the technology of the present disclosure also extends to a computer-readable storage medium (such as a USB: Universal Serial Bus) memory or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc)-ROM (Read Only Memory)) that non-temporarily stores the control program of the control device.

[0131] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications, changes, and improvements are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, the above-described modified examples may be appropriately combined to form a configuration.

[0132] In this embodiment, the multifunction peripheral 100 is used as an example of an information device, but is not limited to this. Examples of information devices may include telephone line devices such as mobile phones and facsimiles, copiers and printers that do not have a communication function, and image forming devices other than multifunction peripherals may also be used.

[0133] The disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No. 2019-239029, filed on December 27, 2019, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. All documents, patent applications, and technical standards described herein are incorporated herein by reference to the same extent as if each individual document, patent application, and technical standard was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. [Industrial Applicability]

[0134] The technology disclosed herein allows for integrated scrolling of the priority list and history list, maximizes the scroll area and the number of task items that can be displayed, and allows for quick task selection, thus improving the operability of information devices and having industrial applicability. [Explanation of symbols]

[0135] 1. Priority List 2 History list 8 Settings button 110 Control device 142 Display control section 300 Task selection screen 301 task items

Claims

1. a display control unit that controls display of a task selection screen for selecting one task item from a plurality of task items, the task selection screen displaying a priority list, which is a list of task items previously set by a user instruction, and a history list, which is a history of task items that have been executed in the past, side by side; The display control unit is When a task item is selected from the task selection screen and the task is executed, a task item based on the executed task is added to the history list, and the task item based on the executed task is not added to the priority list; Furthermore, the display control unit When a scroll operation is performed on the priority list or the history list, the priority list and the history list are scrolled together in a direction in which the scroll operation is performed; Furthermore, the display control unit when an instruction to delete a task item from the priority list is received from the task selection screen, the task item from the priority list for which the instruction to delete has been received is deleted, and a history list to which a new task item has been added is displayed. Control device.

2. The display control unit, when an instruction to delete a task item in the history list is received from the task selection screen, the task item in the history list for which the instruction to delete has been received is deleted, and a history list to which a new task item has been added is displayed. The control device according to claim 1 .

3. A task selection screen for selecting one task item from a plurality of task items, the task selection screen including a display control unit for controlling the display of a priority list, which is a list of task items previously set by a user, and a history list, which is a history of task items that have been executed in the past, side by side; The display control unit is When a task item is selected from the task selection screen and the task is executed, a task item based on the executed task is added to the history list, and the task item based on the executed task is not added to the priority list; Furthermore, the display control unit When a scroll operation is performed on the priority list or the history list, the priority list and the history list are scrolled together in a direction in which the scroll operation is performed; Furthermore, the display control unit When the priority list is scrolled in a certain direction together with the history list, the number of displayed task items in the priority list is reduced and the number of displayed task items in the history list is increased. Control device.

4. The display control unit, displaying the priority list above the history list; The control device according to claim 3.

5. The display control unit: displaying the task items in the history list in order of execution date and time; displaying the task items in the priority list in an order specified by the user; A control device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The display control unit: Allowing the task items in the priority list to be renamed, but not allowing the task items in the history list to be renamed; A control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. A task selection screen for selecting one task item from a plurality of task items, the task selection screen including a display control unit for controlling display of a priority list, which is a list of task items previously set by a user, and a history list, which is a history of task items that have been executed in the past, side by side; The display control unit is When a task item is selected from the task selection screen and the task is executed, a task item based on the executed task is added to the history list, and the task item based on the executed task is not added to the priority list; Furthermore, the display control unit When a scroll operation is performed on the priority list or the history list, the priority list and the history list are scrolled together in a direction in which the scroll operation is performed; Furthermore, the display control unit when an instruction is given to move a task item in the history list to the priority list, the task item in the history list that is instructed to be moved is deleted from the history list, and the history list to which the new task item has been added is displayed. Control device.

8. The display control unit: When a task item added to the history list is selected, a task execution screen corresponding to the task item is displayed; By operating a setting item for performing a task on the task execution screen, the setting item is set. A control device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. A task selection screen for selecting one task item from a plurality of task items, the task selection screen including a display control unit for controlling the display of a priority list, which is a list of task items previously set by a user, and a history list, which is a history of task items that have been executed in the past, side by side; The display control unit is When a task item is selected from the task selection screen and the task is executed, a task item based on the executed task is added to the history list, and the task item based on the executed task is not added to the priority list; Furthermore, the display control unit When a scroll operation is performed on the priority list or the history list, the priority list and the history list are scrolled together in a direction in which the scroll operation is performed; Furthermore, the display control unit A control program for causing a computer to function as a control device that, when an instruction to delete a task item from the priority list is received from the task selection screen, deletes the task item from the priority list for which the instruction to delete was received and displays a history list to which a new task item has been added.

Images