Image forming apparatus, method for controlling the same, and non-transitory computer-readable data recording medium having control program stored thereon

This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2014-233633 filed with the Japan Patent Office on Nov. 18, 2014, the entire content of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

The present disclosure relates to an image forming apparatus for controlling display of an image, a method for controlling the image forming apparatus, and a non-transitory computer-readable data recording medium having a control program stored thereon.

In recent years, an image forming apparatus such as MFP (Multi-Functional Peripheral) having a display unit has been in widespread use. With the widespread use of the image forming apparatus, the functions of the image forming apparatus have become diverse. Therefore, before an intended function is invoked, a user must perform again and again the operation for switching the images on the display unit. The technique for improving such poor operability has been recently under development.

For example, Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2008-305273 discloses an operation device designed to facilitate display switching. Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2012-027725 discloses an image processing device designed to allow a user to perform the operation for switching the setting images quickly and with no stress.

The operation device disclosed in Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2008-305273 displays, on an image, a button associated with each image, and when the user selects the button, the operation device displays the image corresponding to the selected button. As a result, the user can perform switching to the intended image. However, the operation device cannot display the information indicating which image each button is associated with. Therefore, the user cannot understand, at a glance, which button should be selected to display the intended image.

When a plurality of images are displayed, the image processing device disclosed in Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2012-027725 displays buttons for closing the plurality of images, in such a manner that the buttons are overlapped with one another at the same position. By successively pressing the close buttons displayed at the same position, the user causes the image processing device to display the intended image. This can save user's time and effort to search for the close buttons on the images. However, every time the image is closed, the user must check whether or not the displayed image is the intended image, which requires time and effort.

In an image forming apparatus according to one embodiment, the operability at the time of transition from the currently-displayed image (hereinafter also referred to as “displayed image”) to another image is improved as compared with the conventional technique.

According to one embodiment, an image forming apparatus includes: a display unit; an operation accepting unit for accepting an operation indicating that display of an image currently displayed on the display unit is unnecessary; a generating unit for generating, based on the operation, a menu showing image candidates to which transition from the currently-displayed image can be made; a menu display unit for displaying the menu on the currently-displayed image; a selection accepting unit for accepting an operation for selecting a particular image from the candidates; and an image display unit for displaying the particular image on the display unit based on the operation for selecting.

Preferably, based on acceptance of the operation indicating that display of the currently-displayed image is unnecessary, the image display unit closes the currently-displayed image.

Preferably, the currently-displayed image and the image candidates to which transition from the currently-displayed image can be made have a hierarchical relationship.

Preferably, the generating unit generates the menu showing, as the candidates, an image located in a higher hierarchy than that of the currently-displayed image.

Preferably, the operation indicating that display of the currently-displayed image is unnecessary includes an operation for causing transition from a hierarchy of the currently-displayed image to another hierarchy to take place.

Preferably, the images displayed on the display unit are displayed in such a manner that at least a part thereof are overlapped with one another.

Preferably, the menu display unit displays the menu on the display unit when the number of the candidates is equal to or larger than a prescribed number, and does not display the menu on the display unit when the number of the candidates is smaller than the prescribed number.

Preferably, the operation accepting unit includes a button for accepting the operation indicating that display of the currently-displayed image is unnecessary. The image forming apparatus further includes a measuring unit for measuring a time period during which the button is pressed. The menu display unit displays the menu on the display unit when the time period is equal to or longer than a prescribed time period, and does not display the menu on the display unit when the time period is shorter than the prescribed time period.

Preferably, the menu display unit displays the menu near a position where the operation indicating that display of the currently-displayed image is unnecessary was accepted.

Preferably, the menu display unit displays the candidates radially about the position.

Preferably, the currently-displayed image and the image candidates to which transition from the currently-displayed image can be made have a hierarchical relationship. The menu display unit displays the image candidates such that an image candidate having the more distant hierarchical relationship, of the image candidates shown in the menu, is more distant from the position.

Preferably, the operation for selecting a particular image includes at least one of a drag operation and a tap operation.

Preferably, the operation accepting unit is configured to accept an operation for provisionally selecting a particular image from the image candidates shown in the menu, and thereafter, accept an operation for determining the particular image as an image displayed on the display unit. The menu display unit displays a thumbnail of the particular image on the display unit while the particular image is provisionally selected.

Preferably, the image forming apparatus further includes: a storage unit for storing first image information that associates an image candidate to which transition is highly likely to be made with each image, and second image information that associates an image candidate to which transition is highly likely to be made with each set value set in the image forming apparatus; and an identifying unit for identifying the image associated with the currently-displayed image based on the first image information, and identifying the image associated with the set value set in the image forming apparatus based on the second image information. The generating unit generates the menu by using, as the candidates, the image identified by the identifying unit based on the first image information and the image identified by the identifying unit based on the second image information.

Preferably, the menu display unit displays the image candidates such that an image candidate that is more likely to be selected by a user, of the image candidates shown in the menu, is easier to be visually recognized than the other image candidates.

Preferably, the menu display unit displays the image candidates such that an image candidate that is less likely to be selected by a user, of the image candidates shown in the menu, is more difficult to be visually recognized than the other image candidates.

According to another embodiment, a method for controlling an image forming apparatus including a display unit, includes: accepting an operation indicating that display of an image currently displayed on the display unit is unnecessary; generating, based on the operation, a menu showing image candidates to which transition from the currently-displayed image can be made; displaying the menu on the currently-displayed image; accepting an operation for selecting a particular image from the candidates; and displaying the particular image on the display unit based on the operation for selecting.

According to still another embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable data recording medium having a control program stored thereon is provided. The program causes the computer to execute: accepting an operation indicating that display of an image currently displayed on the display unit is unnecessary; generating, based on the operation, a menu showing image candidates to which transition from the currently-displayed image can be made; displaying the menu on the currently-displayed image; accepting an operation for selecting a particular image from the candidates; and displaying the particular image on the display unit based on the operation for selecting.

The foregoing and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the present invention when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an external appearance of an image forming apparatus configured as the MFP.

FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3, and 4 are diagrams showing one example of image transition of the image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a main hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing one example of a functional configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a part of a process executed by the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram schematically showing a hierarchical relationship of images displayed on an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a part of a process executed by the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment.

FIGS. 10A and 10B are diagrams showing specific examples of image candidates to which transition from the current image can be made.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a part of a process executed by an image forming apparatus according to a third embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a specific example of image transition of an image forming apparatus according to a fourth embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing one example of a functional configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a part of a process executed by the image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment.

FIGS. 15A and 15B are diagrams showing examples of a display position of a menu.

FIGS. 16A and 16B are diagrams showing specific examples of a display manner of the menu when the candidates shown in the menu are prioritized.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a part of a process executed by an image forming apparatus according to a sixth embodiment.

FIGS. 18A-18D are diagrams showing specific examples of the selection operation in the menu.

FIGS. 19A and 19B are diagrams showing specific examples of a display manner of a thumbnail.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a part of a process executed by an image forming apparatus according to an eighth embodiment.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a specific example of the display manner of the menu in an image forming apparatus according to a ninth embodiment.

FIG. 22 is a diagram showing one example of a data structure of an image table.

FIG. 23 is a diagram showing one example of a data structure of a set value table.

FIG. 24 is a conceptual diagram schematically showing a method for identifying which image candidate is included in the menu in the image forming apparatus according to the ninth embodiment.

FIG. 25 is a block diagram showing one example of a functional configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the ninth embodiment.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing a part of a process executed by the image forming apparatus according to the ninth embodiment.

FIG. 27 is a diagram showing a specific example of the display manner of the menu in an image forming apparatus according to a tenth embodiment.

FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing a part of a process executed by the image forming apparatus according to the tenth embodiment.

FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a specific example of the display manner of the menu in an image forming apparatus according to an eleventh embodiment.

FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing a part of a process executed by the image forming apparatus according to the eleventh embodiment.

Embodiments according to the present invention will be described hereinafter with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts and components are denoted by the same reference characters. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed description of them will not be repeated.

In the following description, the MFP functioning as a digital complex machine including the scanner function, the copy function and the printer function will be described as one example of the image forming apparatus. However, the image forming apparatus is not limited to the MFP. The image forming apparatus may include, for example, a tablet terminal, a personal computer, a digital camera, an electronic dictionary, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a game console, and any other device having a display unit. Embodiments described below may be selectively combined as appropriate.

First Embodiment

[Overview]

An overview of an image forming apparatus 100 A according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4 . FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an external appearance of image forming apparatus 100 A configured as the MFP. FIGS. 2 to 4 are diagrams showing one example of image transition of image forming apparatus 100 A. As shown in FIG. 1 , image forming apparatus 100 A has an operation panel 17 configured as a touch panel. Image forming apparatus 100 A executes the functions such as the scanner function, the copy function and the printer function in accordance with the user operation of operation panel 17 .

FIG. 2A shows one example of image transition on operation panel 17 when the user invokes the copy function of image forming apparatus 100 A. In FIG. 2A , the user sequentially opens images 32 A to 32 E and performs setting for the copy function in each image. FIG. 2B shows one example of image transition on operation panel 17 when the user invokes the scanner function of image forming apparatus 100 A. In FIG. 2B , the user sequentially opens images 34 A to 34 F and performs setting for transmitting scan data in each image.

As described above, before the user executes an intended function, image forming apparatus 100 A displays many images. As the number of the displayed images increases, the user must perform again and again the operation for closing the images when returning display to the previous image. For example, when the user returns display to image 32 A in the case where image 32 E is currently opened, the user must perform the operation for sequentially closing images 32 E, 32 D, 32 C, and 32 B.

Thus, when accepting, from the user, an operation indicating that display of currently-displayed image 32 E is unnecessary (hereinafter also referred to as “unnecessary operation”) as shown in FIG. 3 , image forming apparatus 100 A according to the present embodiment displays a menu 36 showing image candidates to which transition from currently-displayed image 32 E can be made, as shown in FIG. 4 . The unnecessary operation includes, for example, an operation for closing currently-displayed image 32 E. As one example of the unnecessary operation, FIG. 3 shows an operation for pressing a button 35 for closing image 32 E. Each image candidate shown in menu 36 is displayed in a user identifiable manner by the character information indicating, for example, a name, an ID (Identification) and the like of the image.

When the user releases his/her finger on button 35 , image forming apparatus 100 A closes image 32 E and displays image 32 D that precedes image 32 E by one image. On the other hand, when the user releases his/her finger on any one of the image candidates displayed in menu 36 , i.e., when the user selects a particular image from the image candidates displayed in menu 36 , image forming apparatus 100 A displays the selected image. FIG. 4 shows an example of the case in which the item corresponding to image 32 B (advanced setting image) in menu 36 is selected. At this time, image forming apparatus 100 A preferably closes current image 32 E based on the unnecessary operation.

As described above, in accordance with the unnecessary operation, the user can perform switching to the intended image by the single operation for selecting any one of the image candidates shown in menu 36 , and thus, the user can easily perform the operation for image switching. In addition, the images to which transition from the current image can be made are displayed as the menu, and thus, the user can understand, at a glance, the images to which transition from the current image can be made.

[Hardware Configuration]

One example of a hardware configuration of image forming apparatus 100 A according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 5 . FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a main hardware configuration of image forming apparatus 100 A.

As shown in FIG. 5 , image forming apparatus 100 A includes a control unit 10 . Control unit 10 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 10 A for controlling the entire device, an ROM (Read Only Memory) 11 that is a memory for storing a control program, an S-RAM (Static Random Access Memory) 12 that is a memory forming a working storage area, and a battery-backed-up NV-RAM (Non-Volatile Random Access Memory) 13 for storing various settings involved in image forming.

An image reading device 16 , operation panel 17 , a network I/F (interface) 20 for receiving and transmitting various types of information to and from the other devices connected via a not-shown communication network, a printer controller 19 for generating a copy image from print data received by network I/F 20 , and an image output device 18 for forming the copy image on a paper are connected to control unit 10 via a bus.

Operation panel 17 includes keys and a display unit for doing various inputs, and has the display unit that is a touch panel, and a key switch group such as a numeric key, a print key and a log-out key. In the present embodiment, the touch panel and the key switch group of operation panel 17 accept the operation indicating that display of the image currently displayed on the display unit is unnecessary (i.e., the unnecessary operation), and accept an operation for selecting a particular image from the image candidates shown in menu 36 (see FIG. 4 ) (hereinafter also referred to as “selection operation”).

A fixed storage device 15 is also connected to control unit 10 via the bus. Fixed storage device 15 includes, for example, a storage device such as a hard disk device.

[Functional Configuration]

A function of image forming apparatus 100 A will be described with reference to FIG. 6 . FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing one example of a functional configuration of image forming apparatus 100 A. As shown in FIG. 6 , CPU 10 A (see FIG. 5 ) of image forming apparatus 100 A includes an operation accepting unit 110 , a generating unit 120 , a menu display unit 130 , a selection accepting unit 140 , and an image display unit 150 .

Operation accepting unit 110 accepts the operation indicating that display of the image currently displayed on operation panel 17 (see FIG. 5 ) is unnecessary (i.e., the unnecessary operation). In an aspect, the unnecessary operation includes the operation for closing the displayed image. As one example, the operation for closing the displayed image includes an operation for pressing the close button, an operation for pressing an OK button, an operation for pressing a cancel button, and the like. In another aspect, the unnecessary operation includes an operation for hiding the displayed image without closing the displayed image. As one example, the operation for hiding the displayed image includes a flick operation as page turning, a touch operation outside the displayed image for rendering the displayed image inactive, and the like.

Generating unit 120 generates the menu showing the image candidates to which transition from the displayed image can be made, when operation accepting unit 110 accepts the unnecessary operation. Menu display unit 130 displays the menu generated by generating unit 120 on the displayed image. The details of a display manner of the menu will be described below.

Selection accepting unit 140 accepts the operation for selecting a particular image from the image candidates displayed in the menu (i.e., the selection operation). The details of the selection operation in the menu will be described below. Image display unit 150 displays the image selected from the menu on operation panel 17 . In an aspect, image display unit 150 closes the displayed image based on operation accepting unit 110 accepting the unnecessary operation.

[Control Structure]

A control structure of image forming apparatus 100 A will be described with reference to FIG. 7 . FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a part of a process executed by image forming apparatus 100 A. The process in FIG. 7 is implemented by CPU 10 A (see FIG. 5 ) of image forming apparatus 100 A executing a program. In another aspect, a part or all of the process may be executed by a circuit element or the other hardware.

In step S 10 , CPU 10 A as operation accepting unit 110 (see FIG. 6 ) detects the operation indicating that display of the image currently displayed on operation panel 17 (see FIG. 5 ) (i.e., the displayed image) is unnecessary (i.e., the unnecessary operation).

In step S 12 , CPU 10 A as generating unit 120 (see FIG. 6 ) generates the menu showing the image candidates to which transition from the displayed image can be made. In addition, in step S 12 , CPU 10 A as menu display unit 130 (see FIG. 6 ) displays the generated menu on operation panel 17 .

In step S 14 , CPU 10 A determines whether or not a condition for ending selection of the menu has been satisfied. As one example, the condition for ending selection of the menu includes elapse of a certain time period without any operation after the menu is displayed, releasing of the user's finger from the touch panel, pressing of the button for closing the menu or the OK button, and the like. If the condition for ending selection of the menu has been satisfied (YES in step S 14 ), CPU 10 A switches control to step S 16 . If not (NO in step S 14 ), CPU 10 A executes the process in step S 14 again.

In step S 16 , CPU 10 A as selection accepting unit 140 (see FIG. 6 ) determines whether or not the item in the menu has been selected. If CPU 10 A determines that the item in the menu has been selected (YES in step S 16 ), CPU 10 A switches control to step S 20 . If not (NO in step S 16 ), CPU 10 A switches control to step S 30 .

In step S 20 , CPU 10 A as image display unit 150 displays the image selected from the menu on operation panel 17 . In step S 30 , CPU 10 A executes the operation for closing the currently-displayed image (i.e., the displayed image). The operation for closing the displayed image includes returning to the previous image, erasing the displayed image, and changing the preceding/succeeding relationship between the displayed image and the image located by one image under the displayed image.

[Summary]

As described above, image forming apparatus 100 A according to the present embodiment accepts the unnecessary operation and displays, as the menu, the image candidates to which transition from the current image can be made, and thus, the user can understand, at a glance, the images to which transition from the current image can be made. In addition, the user can cause operation panel 17 to display the intended image by the single operation for selecting the item in the menu. Furthermore, image forming apparatus 100 A displays the menu based on the unnecessary operation by the user, and thus, it is unnecessary to constantly display the menu. Therefore, image forming apparatus 100 A can save the display space.

Second Embodiment

[Hierarchical Relationship Among Images]

In image forming apparatus 100 A according to the first embodiment, the correspondence relationship between the displayed image and the images to which transition from the displayed image can be made has not been particularly limited. In contrast, in an image forming apparatus 100 B according to a second embodiment, the displayed image and the images to which transition from the displayed image can be made have a hierarchical relationship.

An overview of image forming apparatus 100 B according to the second embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. 8 . FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram schematically showing the hierarchical relationship among the images displayed on image forming apparatus 100 B. Since the remaining points such as a hardware configuration of image forming apparatus 100 B are the same as those of image forming apparatus 100 A according to the first embodiment, description thereof will not be repeated.

The images displayed on image forming apparatus 100 B are hierarchically associated with one another. In an example shown in FIG. 8 , an image 41 located in a highest first hierarchy is associated with images 42 A to 42 C located in a second hierarchy. Image 42 A located in the second hierarchy is associated with images 43 A and 43 B located in a third hierarchy. Image 42 B located in the second hierarchy is associated with images 43 C and 43 D located in the third hierarchy. Image 42 C located in the second hierarchy is associated with images 43 E and 43 F located in the third hierarchy.

In this manner, the hierarchical relationship exists among the images and image forming apparatus 100 B causes image transition to take place in the hierarchical order in accordance with the user operation. Namely, image forming apparatus 100 B sequentially displays a series of images having the hierarchical relationship in accordance with the user operation. Each image displayed on image forming apparatus 100 B is displayed as, for example, a popup window. In addition, the images displayed on image forming apparatus 100 B are displayed in such a manner that at least a part thereof are overlapped with one another. As a result, image forming apparatus 100 B can save the display space.

As described above, when accepting the unnecessary operation, generating unit 120 (see FIG. 6 ) generates the menu showing the image candidates to which transition from the currently-displayed image (i.e., the displayed image) can be made. At this time, generating unit 120 includes, in the menu, the images having the hierarchical relationship with the displayed image. For example, when image 42 A is displayed as the current image, generating unit 120 includes a series of images (i.e., images 41 , 43 A and 43 B) having the hierarchical relationship with image 42 A in the menu as the images to which transition from image 42 A can be made. Since the images having the hierarchical relationship with the current image are included in the menu as described above, the image candidates that can be displayed by a series of user operation can be displayed in the menu. As a result, image forming apparatus 100 B can display, in the menu, the image candidates that are highly likely to be selected by the user, and thus, the operability at the time of image switching can be enhanced.

In addition, when the user performs the operation for closing the displayed image, there is a high possibility that the user intends to cause image forming apparatus 100 B to display an image displayed prior to the current image, i.e., an image located in a higher hierarchy than that of the current image. Therefore, generating unit 120 preferably generates the menu showing only the images located in a higher hierarchy than that of the displayed image as the image candidates to which transition can be made. For example, when image 43 A is displayed as the displayed image, generating unit 120 includes, in the menu, images 41 and 42 A located in a higher hierarchy than that of image 43 A. Since generating unit 120 includes, in the menu, only the images that are highly likely to be selected by the user as described above, the operability at the time of image switching can be further enhanced in image forming apparatus 100 B.

[Control Structure]

A control structure of image forming apparatus 100 B will be described with reference to FIG. 9 . FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a part of a process executed by image forming apparatus 100 B. The process in FIG. 9 is implemented by CPU 10 A (see FIG. 5 ) of image forming apparatus 100 B executing a program. In another aspect, a part or all of the process may be executed by a circuit element or the other hardware.

In step S 10 A, CPU 10 A as operation accepting unit 110 (see FIG. 6 ) detects an operation for making transition from the hierarchy of the displayed image to another hierarchy, which is one example of the unnecessary operation. For example, this operation includes the operation for pressing the button for closing the displayed image. In step S 12 A, CPU 10 A as generating unit 120 (see FIG. 6 ) generates the menu showing the images located in a higher hierarchy than that of the displayed image as the image candidates to which transition can be made.

In step S 14 A, CPU 10 A determines whether or not the user's finger has been released from operation panel 17 (see FIG. 5 ) configured as the touch panel. For example, based on the fact that the previously-detected touch operation becomes undetected, CPU 10 A determines that the user's finger has been released from operation panel 17 . If CPU 10 A determines that the user's finger has been released from operation panel 17 (YES in step S 14 A), CPU 10 A switches control to step S 16 . If not (NO in step S 14 A), CPU 10 A executes the process in step S 14 A again.

Since the process in steps S 16 and S 20 is the same as the process shown in FIG. 7 , description will not be repeated. In step S 30 A, CPU 10 A displays the image located in a higher hierarchy by one than that of the displayed image.

[Summary]

As described above, image forming apparatus 100 B according to the present embodiment displays the images having the hierarchical relationship with the displayed image or the images located in a higher hierarchy than that of the displayed image in the menu as the candidates to which transition can be made. Therefore, only the image candidates that are highly likely to be selected by the user can be included in the menu, and thus, the operability at the time of image switching can be further enhanced.

Third Embodiment

[Overview]

Image forming apparatus 100 A according to the first embodiment has constantly displayed the menu based on the acceptance of the unnecessary operation. In contrast, an image forming apparatus 100 C according to a third embodiment does not display the menu when the number of image candidates to which transition from the displayed image can be made is small.

An overview of image forming apparatus 100 C according to the third embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 10A and 10B . FIGS. 10A and 10B are diagrams showing specific examples of image candidates to which transition from the current image can be made. Since the remaining points such as a hardware configuration of image forming apparatus 100 C are the same as those of image forming apparatus 100 A according to the first embodiment, description thereof will not be repeated.

When the number of image candidates to which transition from the currently-displayed image (i.e., the displayed image) can be made is small, the user has a little choice of the candidates even if the menu is displayed. Particularly when the image to which transition from the displayed image can be made is the only one image, display of the menu increases time and effort to select the menu. In order to improve such poor operability, image forming apparatus 100 C according to the present embodiment does not display the menu when the number of image candidates to which transition from the displayed image can be made is smaller than a prescribed number.

As the more specific process, when accepting the unnecessary operation, image forming apparatus 100 C identifies the number of image candidates to which transition from the displayed image can be made. As one example, the number of images located in a higher hierarchy than that of the displayed image is identified as the number of image candidates to which transition can be made. Alternatively, the number of images shown in a candidate table 54 (see FIG. 24 ) described below is identified as the number of image candidates to which transition can be made. Menu display unit 130 (see FIG. 6 ) displays the menu on operation panel 17 (see FIG. 5 ) when the identified number of candidates is equal to or larger than the prescribed number. In addition, menu display unit 130 does not display the menu on operation panel 17 when the identified number of candidates is smaller than the prescribed number.

For example, a threshold value for determining whether to display the menu or not is assumed to be two images. In this case, in FIG. 10A , the image candidates to which transition from currently-displayed image 32 E can be made are four images, i.e., images 32 A to 32 D. Therefore, when accepting the unnecessary operation, image forming apparatus 100 C displays the menu showing images 32 A to 32 D as selection items. In contrast, in FIG. 10B , the image candidate to which transition from currently-displayed image 32 B can be made is one image, i.e., image 32 A. Therefore, even when accepting the unnecessary operation, image forming apparatus 100 C does not display the menu.

[Control Structure]

A control structure of image forming apparatus 100 C will be described with reference to FIG. 11 . FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a part of a process executed by image forming apparatus 100 C. The process in FIG. 11 is implemented by CPU 10 A (see FIG. 5 ) of image forming apparatus 100 C executing a program. In another aspect, a part or all of the process may be executed by a circuit element or the other hardware. Since the process in the steps other than steps S 40 and S 42 shown in FIG. 11 is the same as the process shown in FIG. 7 , description will not be repeated.

In step S 40 , CPU 10 A identifies the number of image candidates to which transition from the displayed image can be made. As one example, CPU 10 A identifies the number of images located in a higher hierarchy than that of the displayed image as the number of image candidates to which transition can be made. Alternatively, CPU 10 A identifies the number of images shown in candidate table 54 (see FIG. 24 ) described below as the number of image candidates to which transition can be made. Alternatively, CPU 10 A identifies a total of the number of images located in a higher hierarchy than that of the displayed image and the number of images shown in candidate table 54 described below as the number of image candidates to which transition can be made.

In step S 42 , CPU 10 A determines whether or not the number of image candidates to which transition from the displayed image can be made is equal to or larger than the prescribed number. If CPU 10 A determines that the number of image candidates to which transition from the displayed image can be made is equal to or larger than the prescribed number (YES in step S 42 ), CPU 10 A switches control to step S 12 . If not (NO in step S 42 ), CPU 10 A switches control to step S 30 .

[Summary]

As described above, when the number of image candidates to which transition from the displayed image can be made is small, image forming apparatus 100 C according to the present embodiment does not display the menu even when image forming apparatus 100 C according to the present embodiment accepts the unnecessary operation. As a result, when the user has a little choice of the candidates, image forming apparatus 100 C can save user's time and effort to select the menu.

Fourth Embodiment

[Overview]

Image forming apparatus 100 A according to the first embodiment has displayed the menu immediately after image forming apparatus 100 A according to the first embodiment has accepted the unnecessary operation. In contrast, an image forming apparatus 100 D according to a fourth embodiment displays the menu based on the fact that the button for closing the displayed image is pressed for a certain time period.

An overview of image forming apparatus 100 D according to the fourth embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. 12 . FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a specific example of image transition of image forming apparatus 100 D. Since the remaining points such as a hardware configuration of image forming apparatus 100 D are the same as those of image forming apparatus 100 A according to the first embodiment, description thereof will not be repeated.

As shown in FIG. 12 , image forming apparatus 100 D displays button 35 for accepting the operation for making transition from the displayed image to another image, and detects a time period during which button 35 is pressed (hereinafter also referred to as “pressing time period”). When the pressing time period is shorter than a prescribed time period (e.g., two seconds), image forming apparatus 100 D executes the operation when button 35 is pressed (e.g., the operation for closing the current image). In an example shown in FIG. 12 , by executing the operation when button 35 is pressed, image 34 E located in a higher hierarchy by one than image 34 F is displayed. When the pressing time period is equal to or longer than the prescribed time period (e.g., two seconds), image forming apparatus 100 D displays a menu 36 A.

[Functional Configuration]

A function of image forming apparatus 100 D will be described with reference to FIG. 13 . FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing one example of a functional configuration of image forming apparatus 100 D. As shown in FIG. 13 , CPU 10 A of image forming apparatus 100 D includes operation accepting unit 110 , generating unit 120 , menu display unit 130 , selection accepting unit 140 , image display unit 150 , and a measuring unit 160 . Since the functional configuration other than measuring unit 160 is the same as the functional configuration shown in FIG. 6 , description will not be repeated.

Measuring unit 160 measures the time period during which the button (e.g., button 35 in FIG. 12 ) for accepting the operation for making transition from the displayed image to another image is pressed (i.e., the pressing time period). The pressing time period is measured by, for example, invoking a program (function) for measuring the time period, which is preliminarily incorporated into image forming apparatus 100 D. Typically, based on detection of pressing of button 35 , measuring unit 160 invokes this program and starts to measure the pressing time period. Measuring unit 160 monitors the pressing time period, and when the pressing time period becomes equal to or longer than the prescribed time period, measuring unit 160 outputs a command for generating the menu to generating unit 120 . When receiving this command, generating unit 120 generates the menu. Thereafter, menu display unit 130 displays the menu generated by generating unit 120 . While the pressing time period is shorter than the prescribed time period, measuring unit 160 does not output the command for generating menu 36 A to generating unit 120 . As a result, while the pressing time period is shorter than the prescribed time period, menu display unit 130 does not display the menu.

[Control Structure]

A control structure of image forming apparatus 100 D will be described with reference to FIG. 14 . FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a part of a process executed by image forming apparatus 100 D. The process in FIG. 14 is implemented by CPU 10 A (see FIG. 5 ) of image forming apparatus 100 D executing a program. In another aspect, a part or all of the process may be executed by a circuit element or the other hardware. Since the process in the steps other than steps S 44 and S 46 shown in FIG. 14 is the same as the processes shown in FIGS. 7 and 9 , description will not be repeated.

In step S 44 , CPU 10 A as measuring unit 160 (see FIG. 13 ) measures the time period during which the button for closing the displayed image is pressed by the user. In step S 46 , CPU 10 A as measuring unit 160 monitors the pressing time period and determines whether or not the pressing time period is equal to or longer than the prescribed time period. If CPU 10 A determines that the pressing time period is equal to or longer than the prescribed time period (YES in step S 46 ), CPU 10 A switches control to step S 12 . If not (NO in step S 46 ), CPU 10 A switches control to step S 30 .

[Summary]

As described above, image forming apparatus 100 D according to the present embodiment displays the menu based on the fact that the pressing time period has reached the prescribed time period. As a result, the menu is not displayed when the pressing time period is shorter than the prescribed time period, and thus, image forming apparatus 100 D can prevent the wrong operation at the time of selection of the menu.

Fifth Embodiment

[Display Position of Menu]

In image forming apparatus 100 A according to the first embodiment, a display position of the menu has not been particularly limited. Namely, in the first embodiment, the menu could be displayed in any place as long as the place is within the display area on operation panel 17 (see FIG. 5 ). In contrast, an image forming apparatus 100 E according to a fifth embodiment displays the menu near a position where the operation indicating that the displayed image is unnecessary (i.e., the unnecessary operation) was accepted (hereinafter also referred to as “operation position”).

The display position of the menu will be described below with reference to FIGS. 15A and 15B . FIGS. 15A and 15B are diagrams showing examples of the display position of the menu. Since the remaining points such as a hardware configuration of image forming apparatus 100 E are the same as those of image forming apparatus 100 A according to the first embodiment, description thereof will not be repeated.

As shown in FIG. 15A , menu display unit 130 (see FIG. 6 ) of image forming apparatus 100 E displays menu 36 near the operation position (e.g., a touch position) where the unnecessary operation was accepted. “Near” in the present embodiment refers to an area within a prescribed range from the operation position and an area within the display area on operation panel 17 . In FIG. 15A , menu 36 is displayed near button 35 which is one example of the operation unit that accepts the unnecessary operation. As described above, menu 36 is displayed near the operation position, and thus, a movement distance of the finger from the operation position at the time of selection of the menu becomes shorter. As a result, the user can select the menu more easily and the operability at the time of selection of the menu is improved.

When the button for accepting the unnecessary operation is configured not by the image such as button 35 displayed on operation panel 17 but as the hardware such as a key, menu display unit 130 displays menu 36 in an area closest to this hardware within the display area on operation panel 17 .

[Display Manner of Menu]

The display manner of the menu will be described with reference again to FIGS. 15A and 15B . Menu display unit 130 displays, radially about the operation position, the candidates to which transition from the displayed image can be made. At this time, menu display unit 130 preferably displays the candidates shown in the menu, such that the candidates are at an equal distance from the operation position. The respective items in the menu are displayed at the equal distance from the operation position, and thereby, the movement distances of the finger when the user selects the respective items become equal to one another. As a result, the user can constantly select the respective items in the menu with the same feeling, and thus, the operability at the time of selection of the menu is enhanced.

In addition, menu display unit 130 may display each item in the menu in various shapes. For example, as shown in FIG. 15A , menu display unit 130 displays menu 36 as a pie menu. Namely, each item shown in menu 36 is displayed in a sector shape. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 15B , each item shown in a menu 36 B may be displayed in a square shape with a rounded corner. Alternatively, each item shown in menu 36 B may be displayed in a rectangular shape, a circular shape, or any other shape.

The hierarchy number of the image represented by each item may be displayed in each item shown in the menu. As a result, the user can grasp, at a glance, the hierarchy number of the image shown in each item in the menu, and thus, the operability at the time of selection of the menu is further enhanced.

[Summary]

As described above, image forming apparatus 100 E according to the present embodiment displays the menu near the operation position. As a result, the movement distance of the finger from the operation position at the time of selection of the menu becomes shorter, and thus, the selection operation in the menu becomes easier.

Sixth Embodiment

[Display Order of Items in Menu]

In image forming apparatus 100 A according to the first embodiment, a display order of the candidates in the menu has not been particularly limited. In contrast, an image forming apparatus 100 F according to a sixth embodiment determines the display order of the candidates in the menu in accordance with the hierarchy of the image represented by the item displayed in the menu.

The display order of the candidates shown in the menu will be described below with reference to FIGS. 16A and 16B . FIGS. 16A and 16B are diagrams showing specific examples of the display manner of the menu when the candidates shown in the menu are displayed in the order of image hierarchy. Since the remaining points such as a hardware configuration of image forming apparatus 100 F are the same as those of image forming apparatus 100 A according to the first embodiment, description thereof will not be repeated.

Menu display unit 130 (see FIG. 6 ) of image forming apparatus 100 F displays the image candidates such that an image candidate located in a higher hierarchy, of the image candidates shown in the menu, is more distant from the position where the unnecessary operation was detected (i.e., the operation position). Namely, menu display unit 130 displays the image candidates such that an image candidate located in a lower hierarchy, of the image candidates shown in the menu, is closer to the operation position.

For example, as shown in FIG. 16A , when the user presses button 35 for closing image 32 E in the case where image 32 E is displayed as the current image, menu display unit 130 displays, in menu 36 , images 32 A to 32 D located in a higher hierarchy than that of image 32 E. At this time, menu display unit 130 displays the items representing images 32 A to 32 D, such that the item representing image 32 D located in the lowermost layer, of images 32 A to 32 D, is closest to button 35 , and such that the item representing image 32 A located in the highest level, of images 32 A to 32 D, is the most distant from button 35 .

The shape of each item in the menu is arbitrary. For example, each item may be arranged linearly like a menu 36 C shown in FIG. 16A , or each item may be arranged concentrically like a menu 36 D shown in FIG. 16B .

[Control Structure]

A control structure of image forming apparatus 100 F will be described with reference to FIG. 17 . FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a part of a process executed by image forming apparatus 100 F. More specifically, the process in FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing, in detail, the menu generation process shown in step S 12 in FIG. 7 . The process in FIG. 17 is implemented by CPU 10 A (see FIG. 5 ) of image forming apparatus 100 F executing a program. In another aspect, a part or all of the process may be executed by a circuit element or the other hardware.

In step S 50 , CPU 10 A obtains the image candidates to which transition from the displayed image can be made. In step S 52 , CPU 10 A identifies the hierarchical relationship among the obtained image candidates. In step S 54 , CPU 10 A determines whether or not the obtained image candidates have the hierarchical relationship. For example, when the obtained image candidates have a series of hierarchical relationship, CPU 10 A determines that the obtained image candidates have the hierarchical relationship. If CPU 10 A determines that the obtained image candidates have the hierarchical relationship (YES in step S 54 ), CPU 10 A switches control to step S 60 . If not (NO in step S 54 ), CPU 10 A switches control to step S 62 .

In step S 60 , CPU 10 A arranges the image candidates such that an image candidate located in a higher hierarchy is more distant from the operation position. At this time, CPU 10 A arranges each item representing each candidate linearly or concentrically, for example. In step S 62 , in accordance with a predetermined condition, CPU 10 A arranges the items representing the image candidates to which transition can be made. The predetermined condition includes, for example, arranging the selection items in the menu in the order of Japanese alphabets. Alternatively, the predetermined condition includes arranging the candidates such that a candidate that is more likely to be selected is closer to the operation position. As one example, the possibility of the item being selected is calculated based on how many times the item was selected in the past. In step S 64 , CPU 10 A shapes the menu.

[Summary]

As described above, image forming apparatus 100 F according to the present embodiment displays the image candidates such that an image candidate located in a higher hierarchy is more distant from the operation position. As a result, the hierarchy number of the transition destination image corresponds to the movement distance of the finger at the time of the selection operation in the menu, and thus, the user can intuitively perform the selection operation in the menu.

Seventh Embodiment

[Selection Operation in Menu]

In image forming apparatus 100 A according to the first embodiment, the selection operation could be implemented by any method as long as a particular image could be selected from the image candidates shown in the menu. In contrast, in an image forming apparatus 100 G according to a seventh embodiment, the selection operation in the menu is specifically described.

The selection operation in the menu will be described below with reference to FIGS. 18A-18D . FIGS. 18A-18D are diagrams showing specific examples of the selection operation in the menu. Since the remaining points such as a hardware configuration of image forming apparatus 100 G are the same as those of image forming apparatus 100 A according to the first embodiment, description thereof will not be repeated.

The selection operation in the menu is implemented by at least one of the drag operation and the tap operation. For example, as shown in FIGS. 18A and 18B , the selection operation in the menu is implemented by the tap operation. In FIG. 18A , when the user taps button 35 for closing the displayed image, image forming apparatus 100 G displays menu 36 around button 35 . Thereafter, the user taps a particular item, of the items shown in menu 36 , and opens intended image 32 B. At the same time, image forming apparatus 100 G erases display of menu 36 .

In FIG. 18B , when the user taps button 35 for closing the displayed image, image forming apparatus 100 G displays a menu 36 E near button 35 . Thereafter, the user taps a particular item, of the items shown in menu 36 E, and provisionally selects the item shown in menu 36 E. Thereafter, the user taps an OK button 37 , and fixes the selection of the provisionally selected item. In this manner, the user opens intended image 32 B. At the same time, image forming apparatus 100 G erases display of menu 36 E.

As shown in FIGS. 18C and 18D , the selection operation in the menu may also be implemented by the drag operation. In FIG. 18C , when the user presses button 35 for closing the displayed image, image forming apparatus 100 G displays menu 36 around button 35 . Thereafter, with button 35 being pressed, the user drags (slides) his/her finger toward the direction of the intended item and releases his/her finger from button 35 by a prescribed distance or longer, thereby performing the selection operation in the menu. Image forming apparatus 100 G displays image 32 B represented by the item shown in the sliding direction of his/her finger from button 35 . At the same time, image forming apparatus 100 G erases display of menu 36 .

In FIG. 18D , when the user presses button 35 for closing the displayed image, image forming apparatus 100 G displays menu 36 C linearly by using button 35 as a starting point. Thereafter, with button 35 being pressed, the user drags (slides) his/her finger to the intended item and releases his/her finger on the intended item, thereby performing the selection operation in the menu. Image forming apparatus 100 G displays image 32 B represented by the item displayed at the position where his/her finger was released. At the same time, image forming apparatus 100 G erases display of menu 36 C.

The selection operation may be implemented not by the drag operation and the tap operation but by the other operation. For example, the selection operation may be implemented by the flick operation, the selection operation by hardware such as a cross key, and any other operation that allows selection of a particular item from the items in the menu.

[Summary]

As described above, image forming apparatus 100 G according to the present embodiment implements the selection operation by at least one of the drag operation and the tap operation. Since the selection operation is implemented by the easy operation such as the drag operation and the tap operation, the operability at the time of selection of the menu can be enhanced in image forming apparatus 100 G.

Eighth Embodiment

[Thumbnail of Item Shown in Menu]

Image forming apparatus 100 A according to the first embodiment has displayed each image candidate to which transition from the displayed image can be made, on the menu in characters. In contrast, an image forming apparatus 100 H according to an eighth embodiment further displays a thumbnail of the image candidate to which transition from the displayed image can be made.

A method for displaying this thumbnail will be described below with reference to FIGS. 19A and 19B . FIGS. 19A and 19B are diagrams showing specific examples of a display manner of the thumbnail. Since the remaining points such as a hardware configuration of image forming apparatus 100 H are the same as those of image forming apparatus 100 A according to the first embodiment, description thereof will not be repeated.

In the present embodiment, operation accepting unit 110 (see FIG. 6 ) of image forming apparatus 100 H is configured to accept the two-level operation for accepting an operation for provisionally selecting a particular image from the image candidates shown in the menu, and thereafter, determining the provisionally selected image as a displayed image. While the image candidate shown in the menu is provisionally selected, menu display unit 130 (see FIG. 6 ) of image forming apparatus 100 H displays a thumbnail of the image on operation panel 17 (see FIG. 5 ). As described above, the thumbnail of the image shown in the menu is displayed, and thus, the user can check the contents of the image shown in each item. As a result, image forming apparatus 100 H can prevent the wrong operation at the time of selection of the menu.

A more specific display example of the thumbnail will be described. In FIG. 19A , when the user presses button 35 for closing the displayed image, image forming apparatus 100 H displays menu 36 around button 35 . Thereafter, when the user drags (slides) his/her finger onto the intended item, with button 35 being pressed, this item enters a state of being provisionally selected (hereinafter also referred to as “provisionally selected state”). When the item enters the provisionally selected state, image forming apparatus 100 H displays a thumbnail 38 A of the image shown in the item in the provisionally selected state. Namely, while the user's finger is located on the item in the menu, image forming apparatus 100 H displays thumbnail 38 A of the image shown in this item. When the user releases his/her finger on the item in the provisionally selected state, image forming apparatus 100 H fixes the selection of the item in the provisionally selected state, and displays the image shown in this item.

In FIG. 19B , when the user taps button 35 for closing the displayed image, image forming apparatus 100 H displays menu 36 E near button 35 . Thereafter, when the user taps a particular item from the items shown in menu 36 E, this item enters the provisionally selected state. When the item enters the provisionally selected state, image forming apparatus 100 H displays a thumbnail 38 B of the image shown in the item in the provisionally selected state. When the user taps OK button 37 while the item is in the provisionally selected state, image forming apparatus 100 H fixes the selection of the item in the provisionally selected state, and displays the image shown in this item. As described above, during a time period from when the selected item in menu 36 E is provisionally selected to when OK button 37 is pressed, image forming apparatus 100 H displays thumbnail 38 B corresponding to the provisionally selected item.

[Control Structure]

A control structure of image forming apparatus 100 H will be described with reference to FIG. 20 . FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a part of a process executed by image forming apparatus 100 H. The process in FIG. 20 is implemented by CPU 10 A (see FIG. 5 ) of image forming apparatus 100 H executing a program. In another aspect, a part or all of the process may be executed by a circuit element or the other hardware. Since the process in steps S 14 , S 20 and S 30 shown in FIG. 20 is the same as the process shown in FIG. 7 , description will not be repeated.

In step S 70 , CPU 10 A as operation accepting unit 110 (see FIG. 6 ) determines whether or not a particular item has been provisionally selected by the user from the items shown in the menu. If CPU 10 A determines that the particular item has been provisionally selected by the user (YES in step S 70 ), CPU 10 A switches control to step S 72 . If not (NO in step S 70 ), CPU 10 A switches control to step S 76 .

In step S 72 , CPU 10 A brings the item provisionally selected by the user into the provisionally selected state. In step S 74 , CPU 10 A as menu display unit 130 (see FIG. 6 ) displays the thumbnail of the image shown in the item in the provisionally selected state. In step S 76 , CPU 10 A brings all items shown in the menu into a non-selected state.

In step S 80 , CPU 10 A determines whether or not the item in the provisionally selected state exists. If CPU 10 A determines that the item in the provisionally selected state exists (YES in step S 80 ), CPU 10 A switches control to step S 20 . If not (NO in step S 80 ), CPU 10 A switches control to step S 30 .

[Summary]

As described above, while the item shown in the menu is provisionally selected, image forming apparatus 100 H according to the present embodiment displays the thumbnail of the image shown in this item. As a result, the user can easily grasp the contents of the transition destination image.

Ninth Embodiment

[Overview]

Image forming apparatus 100 B according to the second embodiment has included the images having the hierarchical relationship with the displayed image in the menu as the image candidates to which transition can be made. In contrast, an image forming apparatus 100 I according to a ninth embodiment displays, in the menu, not only the images having the hierarchical relationship with the displayed image but also the images to which transition from the displayed image is highly likely to be made.

An overview of image forming apparatus 100 I according to the ninth embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. 21 . FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a specific example of the display manner of the menu in image forming apparatus 100 I according to the ninth embodiment. Since the remaining points such as a hardware configuration of image forming apparatus 100 I are the same as those of image forming apparatus 100 A according to the first embodiment, description thereof will not be repeated.

Images 32 A, 32 B and 32 G shown in FIG. 21 are assumed to have a hierarchical relationship with one another. In an example shown in FIG. 21 , the user is assumed to first open image 32 A for performing setting at the time of printing. The user is assumed to next open image 32 B and set a layout at the time of printing at “booklet”. The user is assumed to then open image 32 G in order to perform setting for shifting a printing position. However, image forming apparatus 100 I is assumed to be configured not to accept the setting for shifting the printing position, when the layout at the time of printing is set at “booklet”. Therefore, image forming apparatus 100 I displays an error image 32 H indicating that the setting of “booklet” cannot be combined with the setting for shifting the printing position. The user who saw this error image 32 H is highly likely to open an image for canceling the setting of “booklet” in order to allow the user to perform the setting for shifting the printing position. As described above, the image that is highly likely to be opened next by the user can be estimated based on a current set value for image forming apparatus 100 I and the contents of the image such as error image 32 H.

Therefore, image forming apparatus 100 I according to the present embodiment displays, as the menu, not only the images located in a higher hierarchy than that of the displayed image but also the images to which transition from the displayed image is highly likely to be made. In an example of a menu 36 F shown in FIG. 21 , not only the items (“copy image” and “advanced setting” in menu 36 F) representing images 32 A and 32 B located in a higher hierarchy than that of currently-displayed image 32 G, but also the item (“booklet setting” in menu 36 F) representing the image for canceling the setting of “booklet” is shown.

[Data Structure of Image Table 50 ]

In order to identify an image to which transition from the displayed image is highly likely to be made, image forming apparatus 100 I preliminarily holds image information that associates an image candidate to which transition is highly likely to be made with each image (hereinafter also referred to as “image table”). Based on the image table, image forming apparatus 100 I identifies the image to which transition from the current image is highly likely to be made. An image table 50 will be described below with reference to FIG. 22 . FIG. 22 is a diagram showing one example of a data structure of image table 50 . Image table 50 is prestored in, for example, an internal storage device of image forming apparatus 100 I such as ROM 11 (see FIG. 5 ). Alternatively, image table 50 may be stored in an external storage device and the like.

As shown in FIG. 22 , image table 50 shows a correspondence relationship between the displayed image and the images to which transition is highly likely to be made next. In image table 50 shown in FIG. 22 , “setting check image” and “copy image” are associated with “registration setting image”. “Inter sheet setting image”, “cover sheet setting image”, “advanced setting image”, and “copy image” are associated with “insert page setting image”. “Water mark setting image”, “advanced setting image” and “copy image” are associated with “stamp setting image”.

Preferably, the images that allow settings similar to the settings that can be performed in the displayed image are associated with the displayed image defined in image table 50 . When there are many images similar in settable contents, there is a possibility that the user opens an unintended image similar in settable contents. When the user opens such a wrong image, the user is highly likely to reopen an image similar in settable contents to the opened image. Therefore, the images similar in settable contents are associated with each other, and thus, the images to which transition is highly likely to be made are associated with each other.

For example, as shown in image table 50 in FIG. 22 , “insert page setting image” and “inter sheet setting image” that allow setting about insertion of a page are associated with each other. In addition, “stamp setting image” and “water mark setting image” for performing an operation for inserting a text or an image onto a document are associated with each other.

Image table 50 shown in FIG. 22 shows the example in which only the image candidates to which transition is highly likely to be made are associated with each displayed image. However, the images located in a higher hierarchy than that of the displayed image may be further associated with each displayed image.

[Data Structure of Set Value Table 52 ]

There is a high possibility that the user who sets the setting item of “color setting” for image forming apparatus 100 I at “gray scale” wants to save the printing cost. Therefore, when the setting item of “color setting” is set at the set value of “gray scale”, “Nin1 setting image” or “image printing setting image” that allows reduction in printing cost is highly likely to be opened next. As described above, the image that is highly likely to be opened next by the user can be estimated based on the current set value for image forming apparatus 100 I.

Image forming apparatus 100 I preliminarily holds image information that associates an image candidate to which transition is highly likely to be made next with each set value set for the image (hereinafter also referred to as “set value table”). Based on the set value table, image forming apparatus 100 I identifies the image to which transition is highly likely to be made next on the premise of the current set value. A set value table 52 will be described below with reference to FIG. 23 . FIG. 23 is a diagram showing one example of a data structure of set value table 52 . Set value table 52 is prestored in, for example, an internal storage device of image forming apparatus 100 I such as ROM 11 (see FIG. 5 ). Alternatively, set value table 52 may be stored in an external storage device and the like.

Set value table 52 defines a correspondence relationship between the set value for image forming apparatus 100 I and the images to which transition is highly likely to be made next. In set value table 52 shown in FIG. 23 , “punch setting image” is associated with the set value of “ON” for the setting item of “binding margin setting”. “Nin1 setting image” and “image printing setting image” are associated with the set value of “gray scale” for the setting item of “color setting”. “Image shift setting image” is associated with the set value of “booklet ON” for the setting item of “booklet setting”.

[Method for Determining which Image Candidate is Included in Menu]

Image forming apparatus 100 I refers to image table 50 and set value table 52 described above, and determines which image candidate is included in the menu. A method for determining which image candidate is included in the menu will be described with reference to FIG. 24 . FIG. 24 is a conceptual diagram schematically showing the method for determining which image candidate is included in the menu in image forming apparatus 100 I.

Image forming apparatus 100 I identifies the image associated with the displayed image based on image table 50 , and identifies the image associated with the set value set in image forming apparatus 100 I based on set value table 52 . Image forming apparatus 100 I includes the identified images in candidate table 54 . As a result, the image candidates to which transition from the current image is made are written into candidate table 54 . When accepting the unnecessary operation, image forming apparatus 100 I refers to candidate table 54 and generates the menu showing the candidates defined in candidate table 54 . Candidate table 54 is updated when transition from the displayed image takes place or when the set value is changed by the user. Candidate table 54 is prestored in, for example, an internal storage device of image forming apparatus 100 I such as ROM 11 (see FIG. 5 ). Alternatively, candidate table 54 may be stored in an external storage device and the like.

A specific example of the method for determining which image candidate is included in the menu will be described. As shown in FIG. 24 , when transition from the displayed image takes place, image forming apparatus 100 I identifies the image to which transition from the current image is highly likely to be made, based on image table 50 described above. For example, when the current image is “paper setting image”, image forming apparatus 100 I refers to image table 50 and identifies the image associated with “paper setting image”. Since no image is associated with “paper setting image” in image table 50 shown in FIG. 24 , image forming apparatus 100 I does not update candidate table 54 .

When the set value is changed by the user, image forming apparatus 100 I identifies the image to which transition from the current image is highly likely to be made, based on set value table 52 . For example, when the current set value for the current setting item of “color setting” is “gray scale”, image forming apparatus 100 I refers to set value table 52 and identifies the images associated with the set value of “gray scale”. In set value table 52 shown in FIG. 24 , “Nin1 setting image” and “image printing setting image” are associated with the set value of “gray scale” (see a dotted line 56 ). Image forming apparatus 100 I includes “Nin1 setting image” and “image printing setting image” in candidate table 54 (see a dotted line 58 ).

Image forming apparatus 100 I may further include an image located in a higher hierarchy than that of the current image in candidate table 54 . In an example shown in FIG. 24 , “advanced setting image” (see image 32 B in FIGS. 16A and 16B ) and “copy image” (see image 32 A in FIGS. 16A and 16B ) located in a higher hierarchy than that of the current image of “paper setting image” (see image 32 C in FIGS. 16A and 16B ) are included in candidate table 54 (see a dotted line 57 ).

[Functional Configuration]

A function of image forming apparatus 100 I will be described with reference to FIG. 25 . FIG. 25 is a block diagram showing one example of a functional configuration of image forming apparatus 100 I. As shown in FIG. 25 , CPU 10 A of image forming apparatus 100 I includes operation accepting unit 110 , generating unit 120 , menu display unit 130 , selection accepting unit 140 , image display unit 150 , and an identifying unit 170 . Since the functional configuration other than identifying unit 170 is the same as the functional configuration shown in FIG. 6 , description will not be repeated.

Identifying unit 170 identifies the image associated with the displayed image, based on image table 50 (see FIG. 24 ). Preferably, the image identified based on image table 50 is identified at a timing of image transition. Identifying unit 170 also identifies the image associated with the set value set in image forming apparatus 100 I, based on set value table 52 (see FIG. 24 ). Preferably, the image identified based on set value table 52 is identified at a timing when the set value for image forming apparatus 100 I is changed by the user.

Generating unit 120 generates the menu by using, as the candidates, the image located in a higher hierarchy than that of the current image, the image identified by identifying unit 170 based on image table 50 , and the image identified by identifying unit 170 based on set value table 52 .

[Control Structure]

A control structure of image forming apparatus 100 I will be described with reference to FIG. 26 . FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing a part of a process executed by image forming apparatus 100 I. The process in FIG. 26 is implemented by CPU 10 A (see FIG. 5 ) of image forming apparatus 100 I executing a program. In another aspect, a part or all of the process may be executed by a circuit element or the other hardware. Since the process in steps S 14 , S 16 , S 20 , and S 30 shown in FIG. 26 is the same as the process shown in FIG. 7 , description will not be repeated.

In step S 82 , CPU 10 A as identifying unit 170 (see FIG. 25 ) identifies the image to which transition from the displayed image is highly likely to be made, based on image table 50 (see FIG. 24 ), and adds the identified image to candidate table 54 (see FIG. 24 ). In step S 84 , CPU 10 A detects the user operation performed on image forming apparatus 100 I.

In step S 86 , CPU 10 A determines whether or not the user operation detected in step S 84 is for changing the current set value for image forming apparatus 100 I. If CPU 10 A determines that the current set value for image forming apparatus 100 I has been changed (YES in step S 86 ), CPU 10 A switches control to step S 88 . If not (NO in step S 86 ), CPU 10 A switches control to step S 90 .

In step S 88 , CPU 10 A as identifying unit 170 identifies the image associated with the set value currently set for image forming apparatus 100 I, based on set value table 52 (see FIG. 24 ), and adds the identified image to candidate table 54 .

In step S 90 , CPU 10 A determines whether or not the unnecessary operation has been detected. If CPU 10 A determines that the unnecessary operation has been detected (YES in step S 90 ), CPU 10 A switches control to step S 92 . If not (NO in step S 90 ), CPU 10 A executes the process in step S 84 again. In step S 92 , CPU 10 A as generating unit 120 (see FIG. 24 ) generates the menu showing the image candidates shown in candidate table 54 . In step S 94 , CPU 10 A as menu display unit 130 (see FIG. 24 ) displays the generated menu. In step S 96 , CPU 10 A clears the image candidates shown in candidate table 54 .

[Summary]

As described above, image forming apparatus 100 I according to the present embodiment generates the menu including not only the image candidates located in a higher hierarchy than that of the displayed image but also the image candidates to which transition is highly likely to be made. This increases the possibility that the image intended by the user is included in the menu, and thus, the operability at the time of the unnecessary operation can be further enhanced.

Tenth Embodiment

[Overview]

Image forming apparatus 100 A according to the first embodiment has uniformly displayed the items shown in the menu. In contrast, an image forming apparatus 100 J according to a tenth embodiment displays the image candidates such that a candidate that is more likely to be selected by the user is easier to be visually recognized than the other image candidates.

An overview of image forming apparatus 100 J according to the tenth embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. 27 . FIG. 27 is a diagram showing a specific example of the display manner of the menu in image forming apparatus 100 J according to the tenth embodiment. Since the remaining points such as a hardware configuration of image forming apparatus 100 J are the same as those of image forming apparatus 100 A according to the first embodiment, description thereof will not be repeated.

As shown in FIG. 27 , the user is assumed to sequentially open images 34 C to 34 F in the process of performing an operation for transmitting scan data to the other device. In this process, the user is assumed to open image 34 F before an input to image 34 E is completed. At this time, the user is highly likely to open input-uncompleted image 34 E next to image 34 F. Like a menu 36 G shown in FIG. 27 , in order to allow the user to easily select image 34 F, image forming apparatus 100 J displays the items such that the item representing image 34 E that is most likely to be selected is easier to be visually recognized than the items representing the other images 34 C and 34 D.

As described above, image forming apparatus 100 J according to the present embodiment displays the image candidates such that the image candidate that is more likely to be selected by the user, of the image candidates shown in the menu, is easier to be visually recognized than the other image candidates. As a result, the operability at the time of selection of the menu is further enhanced in image forming apparatus 100 J.

“Easier to be visually recognized” in the present embodiment includes displaying such that the item highly likely to be selected is closer to the operation position than the other items, highlighting the item highly likely to be selected as compared with the other items, and the like. A method for highlighting the item as compared with the other items includes making the display area of the item highly likely to be selected larger than that of the other items, displaying the item highly likely to be selected with a color of higher intensity than that of the other items, rimming the item highly likely to be selected with a thicker line than that of the other items, and the like.

Typically, the possibility of each item being selected is calculated such that the possibility of the item representing the input-uncompleted image is higher as described above. Alternatively, the possibility of each item being selected may be preset at the time of design. Alternatively, the possibility of each item being selected may be calculated such that the possibility of the items representing the images defined in aforementioned image table 50 (see FIG. 24 ) is higher. Alternatively, the possibility of each item being selected may be calculated such that the possibility of the items representing the images defined in aforementioned set value table 52 (see FIG. 24 ) is higher than that of the other items.

[Control Structure]

A control structure of image forming apparatus 100 J will be described with reference to FIG. 28 . FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing a part of a process executed by image forming apparatus 100 J. More specifically, the process in FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing in detail the menu generation process shown in step S 12 in FIG. 7 . The process in FIG. 28 is implemented by CPU 10 A (see FIG. 5 ) of image forming apparatus 100 J executing a program. In another aspect, a part or all of the process may be executed by a circuit element or the other hardware.

In step S 100 , CPU 10 A obtains one image that is a candidate for next transition, from the images shown in aforementioned candidate table 54 (see FIG. 24 ). In step S 102 , CPU 10 A determines whether or not the image obtained in step S 100 includes an input-uncompleted input form. If CPU 10 A determines that the image obtained in step S 100 includes the input-uncompleted input form (YES in step S 102 ), CPU 10 A switches control to step S 104 . If not (NO in step S 102 ), CPU 10 A switches control to step S 106 .

In step S 104 , CPU 10 A sets the possibility of selection of the candidate obtained in step S 100 to be higher. Typically, this possibility is shown by likelihood and is calculated in accordance with the degree of the input to the input form. For example, the likelihood is calculated to become higher as uninput information to the input form becomes more. As one example, the likelihood is managed in candidate table 54 . CPU 10 A associates the image candidate obtained in step S 100 with the calculated likelihood, and writes the image candidate into candidate table 54 .

In step S 106 , CPU 10 A determines whether or not check of all image candidates shown in candidate table 54 has ended. If CPU 10 A determines that check of all image candidates shown in candidate table 54 has ended (YES in step S 106 ), CPU 10 A switches control to step S 108 . If not (NO in step S 106 ), CPU 10 A executes the process in step S 100 again.

In step S 108 , CPU 10 A as generating unit 120 (see FIG. 6 ) shapes the menu based on the likelihood of selection of each image shown in candidate table 54 . More specifically, CPU 10 A shapes the menu such that an image having a higher likelihood is easier to be visually recognized by the user.

[Summary]

As described above, image forming apparatus 100 J according to the present embodiment displays the items in the menu such that the item that is more likely to be selected is easier to be visually recognized. As a result, the operability at the time of selection of the menu can be further enhanced in image forming apparatus 100 J.

Eleventh Embodiment

[Overview]

Image forming apparatus 100 A according to the first embodiment has uniformly displayed the candidates shown in the menu. In contrast, an image forming apparatus 100 K according to an eleventh embodiment displays the image candidates such that a candidate that is less likely to be selected by the user is more difficult to be visually recognized than the other image candidates.

An overview of image forming apparatus 100 K according to the eleventh embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. 29 . FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a specific example of the display manner of the menu in image forming apparatus 100 K according to the eleventh embodiment. Since the remaining points such as a hardware configuration of image forming apparatus 100 K are the same as those of image forming apparatus 100 A according to the first embodiment, description thereof will not be repeated.

As shown in FIG. 29 , the user is assumed to sequentially open images 34 C to 34 F in the process of performing the operation for transmitting scan data to the other device. In this process, the user is assumed to open image 34 F after an input to image 34 E is completed. At this time, the user is less likely to open input-completed image 34 E next to image 34 F. Like a menu 36 H shown in FIG. 29 , in order to allow the user not to easily select image 34 E, image forming apparatus 100 K displays the items such that the item representing image 34 E that is less likely to be selected is more difficult to be visually recognized than the items representing the other images 34 C and 34 D.

As described above, image forming apparatus 100 K displays the image candidates such that the image candidate that is less likely to be selected by the user, of the image candidates shown in the menu, is more difficult to be visually recognized than the other image candidates. As a result, the operability at the time of selection of the menu is further enhanced in image forming apparatus 100 K.

“More difficult to be visually recognized” in the present embodiment includes, for example, displaying such that the item less likely to be selected is more distant than the other items from the position where the unnecessary operation was accepted, displaying the item less likely to be selected in a more inconspicuous manner than the other items, and the like. A method for displaying the item in a more inconspicuous manner than the other items includes making the display area of the item less likely to be selected smaller than that of the other items, displaying the item less likely to be selected with a color of lower intensity than that of the other items, making the transparency of the item less likely to be selected higher than that of the other items (such as, for example, displaying the item in a translucent manner), and the like.

Typically, the possibility of each item being selected is calculated such that the possibility of the item representing the input-completed image is lower as described above. Alternatively, the possibility of each item being selected is preset. Alternatively, the possibility of each item being selected may be calculated such that the possibility of the items representing the images not defined in image table 50 (see FIG. 24 ) is lower. Alternatively, the possibility of each item being selected may be calculated such that the possibility of the items representing the images not defined in set value table 52 (see FIG. 24 ) is lower than that of the other items.

[Control Structure]

A control structure of image forming apparatus 100 K will be described with reference to FIG. 30 . FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing a part of a process executed by image forming apparatus 100 K. More specifically, the process in FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing in detail the menu generation process shown in step S 12 in FIG. 7 . The process in FIG. 30 is implemented by CPU 10 A (see FIG. 5 ) of image forming apparatus 100 K executing a program. In another aspect, a part or all of the process may be executed by a circuit element or the other hardware. Since the process in the steps other than steps S 103 , S 110 and S 112 shown in FIG. 30 is the same as the process shown in FIG. 28 , description will not be repeated.

In step S 103 , CPU 10 A determines whether or not the image obtained in step S 100 includes the input form and the input to the input form has been completed. If CPU 10 A determines that the image obtained in step S 100 includes the input form and the input to the input form has been completed (YES in step S 103 ), CPU 10 A switches control to step S 110 . If not (NO in step S 103 ), CPU 10 A switches control to step S 106 .

In step S 110 , CPU 10 A sets the possibility of selection of the candidate obtained in step S 100 to be lower. Typically, this possibility is shown by likelihood and is calculated in accordance with the degree of the input to the input form. For example, the likelihood is calculated to become lower as uninput information to the input form becomes less. As one example, the likelihood is managed in candidate table 54 . CPU 10 A associates the image candidate obtained in step S 100 with the calculated likelihood, and writes the image candidate into candidate table 54 .

In step S 112 , CPU 10 A as generating unit 120 (see FIG. 6 ) shapes the menu based on the likelihood of selection of each image shown in candidate table 54 . More specifically, CPU 10 A shapes the menu such that an image having a lower likelihood is more difficult to be visually recognized by the user.

[Summary]

As described above, image forming apparatus 100 K according to the present embodiment displays the items in the menu such that the item that is less likely to be selected is more difficult to be visually recognized. As a result, the operability at the time of selection of the menu can be further enhanced in image forming apparatus 100 K.

Although the present invention has been described and illustrated in detail, it is clearly understood that the same is by way of illustration and example only and is not to be taken by way of limitation, the scope of the present invention being interpreted by the terms of the appended claims.