Gesture Scroll Menu for Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses have poor operability due to differing methods of switching between basic and advanced function keys, which confuses users as the positions of basic function keys change upon scrolling, disrupting quick access to frequently used functions.
Innovation Solution
A display apparatus with separate units for basic and advanced function keys, where basic function keys are displayed at predetermined positions and switched via scroll operations, while advanced function keys are scrollable based on operation speed to facilitate recognition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If scroll operation is applied to function keys for basic functions to switch between them, then all function keys can be accessed, but the display positions of frequently used function keys change, deteriorating operability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments function keys into two categories: basic function keys (first menu items) and advanced function keys (second menu items). Basic function keys are displayed at fixed predetermined positions and switched via screen switching rather than scrolling, while advanced function keys are scrollable. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by applying different interaction modes to different function key groups.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different display and interaction properties to different regions of the interface. Basic function keys in the first display unit maintain fixed positions with predictable locations, while advanced function keys in the second display unit are scrollable. This local differentiation allows frequently used basic functions to remain easily accessible while still providing access to all functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If scroll operation is applied to function keys for advanced functions, then all advanced function keys become accessible, but it increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the operation panel into two distinct display units: a first display unit for basic function keys and a second display unit for advanced function keys. The second display unit implements scroll operation to access all advanced function keys, while the first display unit uses fixed positions with screen switching. This segmentation allows scrolling functionality to be applied only where necessary, reducing overall system complexity.
3Ease of operation
If uniform scroll operation is applied to both basic and advanced function keys, then operation method is consistent, but frequently used basic function keys become harder to locate
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of applying the same scrolling mechanism to both basic and advanced function keys, the patent inverts the approach: basic function keys use fixed positions with screen switching (opposite of scrolling), while advanced function keys use scrolling. This inversion prioritizes quick access to frequently used basic functions over operational consistency.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus displays part of function keys for menu items of basic functions so as to be stopped at a predetermined stop position. The image forming apparatus switches the function keys for menu items of basic functions to be displayed, by displaying another part of function keys for menu items of basic functions so as to be stopped at a predetermined stop position. When part of function keys for menu items of advanced functions are displayed so as to be arranged in a predetermined direction, the image forming apparatus accepts scroll operation and then moves the menu items of advanced functions by a distance decided based on the speed of the scroll operation.