U.S. patent application number 13/849920 was filed with the patent office on 2014-01-16 for display control device, service providing apparatus, display control method, and non-transitory computer readable medium.
This patent application is currently assigned to FUJI XEROX CO., LTD.. The applicant listed for this patent is FUJI XEROX CO., LTD.. Invention is credited to Koji AMANO.
Application Number | 20140019914 13/849920 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 49915122 |
Filed Date | 2014-01-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140019914 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
AMANO; Koji |
January 16, 2014 |
DISPLAY CONTROL DEVICE, SERVICE PROVIDING APPARATUS, DISPLAY
CONTROL METHOD, AND NON-TRANSITORY COMPUTER READABLE MEDIUM
Abstract
A display control device includes a first memory, an
operation-display unit, and a display controller. The first memory
stores data of a normal screen and data of a simple screen. The
normal screen is a screen that displays functions related to a
service process provided to a user, whereas the simple screen is a
screen that displays a smaller number of functions than the normal
screen. The operation-display unit displays one of the normal
screen and the simple screen to the user and accepts a setting
operation performed by the user on a function among the displayed
functions. The display controller controls the operation-display
unit so that an indication recommending the user to use the simple
screen is displayed in a case where every function set by the user
on the normal screen is settable on the simple screen.
Inventors: |
AMANO; Koji; (Kanagawa,
JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
FUJI XEROX CO., LTD. |
Tokyo |
|
JP |
|
|
Assignee: |
FUJI XEROX CO., LTD.
Tokyo
JP
|
Family ID: |
49915122 |
Appl. No.: |
13/849920 |
Filed: |
March 25, 2013 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
715/825 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 3/0489 20130101;
G06F 3/0481 20130101; H04N 1/00408 20130101; H04N 2201/0094
20130101; H04N 1/4413 20130101; H04N 1/00411 20130101; H04N
2201/0093 20130101; G06F 3/04895 20130101; H04N 1/00472 20130101;
H04N 1/00503 20130101; G06F 3/0488 20130101; G06F 11/3438 20130101;
G06F 3/0482 20130101; H04N 1/00482 20130101; H04N 1/00514 20130101;
G06F 9/453 20180201; G06F 11/34 20130101; H04N 1/00416 20130101;
G06F 9/451 20180201; H04N 1/00474 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
715/825 |
International
Class: |
G06F 3/0482 20060101
G06F003/0482 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jul 10, 2012 |
JP |
2012-154790 |
Claims
1. A display control device comprising: a first memory that stores
data of a normal screen and data of a simple screen, the normal
screen being a screen that displays functions related to a service
process provided to a user, the simple screen being a screen that
displays a smaller number of functions than the normal screen; an
operation-display unit that displays one of the normal screen and
the simple screen to the user and that accepts a setting operation
performed by the user on a function among the displayed functions;
and a display controller that controls the operation-display unit
so that an indication recommending the user to use the simple
screen is displayed in a case where every function set by the user
on the normal screen is settable on the simple screen.
2. The display control device according to claim 1, further
comprising: a measuring unit that measures a setting period taken
by the user to set each function, wherein the display controller
controls the operation-display unit so that the indication
recommending the user to use the simple screen is displayed in a
case where every function set by the user on the normal screen is
settable on the simple screen and the setting period exceeds a
certain value.
3. The display control device according to claim 1, further
comprising: a second memory that acquires an operation history
containing information about a function set by the user, a set
value of the function, and a setting period taken to set the
function, and that stores the acquired operation history in
association with the user, wherein the display controller
determines whether or not the indication recommending the user to
use the simple screen is to be displayed, in accordance with the
operation history.
4. The display control device according to claim 2, further
comprising: a second memory that acquires an operation history
containing information about a function set by the user, a set
value of the function, and a setting period taken to set the
function, and that stores the acquired operation history in
association with the user, wherein the display controller
determines whether or not the indication recommending the user to
use the simple screen is to be displayed, in accordance with the
operation history.
5. The display control device according to claim 3, wherein in a
case where the user is using the display control device for the
first time, the display controller determines whether or not the
indication recommending the user to use the simple screen is to be
displayed, in accordance with the operation history regarding the
user's first setting operation, and controls, upon determining that
the indication recommending the user to use the simple screen is to
be displayed, the operation-display unit so that the indication is
displayed after the user finishes the first setting operation.
6. The display control device according to claim 4, wherein in a
case where the user is using the display control device for the
first time, the display controller determines whether or not the
indication recommending the user to use the simple screen is to be
displayed, in accordance with the operation history regarding the
user's first setting operation, and controls, upon determining that
the indication recommending the user to use the simple screen is to
be displayed, the operation-display unit so that the indication is
displayed after the user finishes the first setting operation.
7. The display control device according to claim 3, wherein in a
case where the user has used the display control device before, the
display controller determines whether or not the indication
recommending the user to use the simple screen is to be displayed,
in accordance with the operation history regarding a plurality of
setting operations, and controls, upon determining that the
indication recommending the user to use the simple screen is to be
displayed, the operation-display unit so that the indication is
displayed before the user starts a setting operation.
8. The display control device according to claim 4, wherein in a
case where the user has used the display control device before, the
display controller determines whether or not the indication
recommending the user to use the simple screen is to be displayed,
in accordance with the operation history regarding a plurality of
setting operations, and controls, upon determining that the
indication recommending the user to use the simple screen is to be
displayed, the operation-display unit so that the indication is
displayed before the user starts a setting operation.
9. The display control device according to claim 7, wherein the
display controller determines that the indication recommending the
user to use the simple screen is to be displayed, if a ratio of
functions settable on the simple screen to set functions that is
calculated from the operation history regarding the plurality of
setting operations is greater than or equal to a predetermined
value.
10. The display control device according to claim 8, wherein the
display controller determines that the indication recommending the
user to use the simple screen is to be displayed, if a ratio of
functions settable on the simple screen to set functions that is
calculated from the operation history regarding the plurality of
setting operations is greater than or equal to a predetermined
value.
11. The display control device according to claim 3, wherein in a
case where information about a function set by the user, a set
value of the function, and a setting period taken to set the
function is acquired during a setting operation, the display
controller determines whether or not the indication recommending
the user to use the simple screen is to be displayed, in accordance
with the acquired information about the set function, set value,
and setting period, and controls, upon determining that the
indication recommending the user to use the simple screen is to be
displayed, the operation-display unit so that the indication is
displayed during the setting operation.
12. The display control device according to claim 4, wherein in a
case where information about a function set by the user, a set
value of the function, and a setting period taken to set the
function is acquired during a setting operation, the display
controller determines whether or not the indication recommending
the user to use the simple screen is to be displayed, in accordance
with the acquired information about the set function, set value,
and setting period, and controls, upon determining that the
indication recommending the user to use the simple screen is to be
displayed, the operation-display unit so that the indication is
displayed during the setting operation.
13. A service providing apparatus comprising: the display control
device according to claim 1; and a service providing unit that
provides one of a normal service corresponding to the normal screen
and a simple service corresponding to the simple screen in
accordance with selection made by the user.
14. A display control method comprising: displaying one of a normal
screen and a simple screen to a user, the normal screen being a
screen that displays functions related to a service process
provided to a user, the simple screen being a screen that displays
a smaller number of functions than the normal screen; accepting a
setting operation performed by the user on a function among the
displayed functions; and performing control so that an indication
recommending the user to use the simple screen is displayed in a
case where every function set by the user on the normal screen is
settable on the simple screen.
15. A non-transitory computer readable medium storing a program
causing a computer to execute a process for display control, the
process comprising: displaying one of a normal screen and a simple
screen to a user, the normal screen being a screen that displays
functions related to a service process provided to a user, the
simple screen being a screen that displays a smaller number of
functions than the normal screen; accepting a setting operation
performed by the user on a function among the displayed functions;
and performing control so that an indication recommending the user
to use the simple screen is displayed in a case where every
function set by the user on the normal screen is settable on the
simple screen.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is based on and claims priority under 35
USC 119 from Japanese Patent Application No. 2012-154790 filed Jul.
10, 2012.
BACKGROUND
Technical Field
[0002] The present invention relates to a display control device, a
service providing apparatus, a display control method, and a
non-transitory computer readable medium.
SUMMARY
[0003] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a
display control device including a first memory, an
operation-display unit, and a display controller. The first memory
stores data of a normal screen and data of a simple screen. The
normal screen is a screen that displays functions related to a
service process provided to a user, whereas the simple screen is a
screen that displays a smaller number of functions than the normal
screen. The operation-display unit displays one of the normal
screen and the simple screen to the user and accepts a setting
operation performed by the user on a function among the displayed
functions. The display controller controls the operation-display
unit so that an indication recommending the user to use the simple
screen is displayed in a case where every function set by the user
on the normal screen is settable on the simple screen.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0004] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be
described in detail based on the following figures, wherein:
[0005] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a
configuration of a service providing apparatus according to a first
exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
[0006] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a
configuration of an operation-display section according to the
first exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
[0007] FIG. 3 is a plan view illustrating an example of a
configuration of an operation panel;
[0008] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a
service selection screen;
[0009] FIGS. 5A and 5B are schematic diagrams illustrating examples
of normal setting screens used in normal copy;
[0010] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a
simple setting screen used in simply copy;
[0011] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of a display
control process according to the first exemplary embodiment of the
present invention;
[0012] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a
table that stores an operation history;
[0013] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of a login
process;
[0014] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of a setting
accepting process;
[0015] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of a
guidance display process;
[0016] FIGS. 12A and 12B are schematic diagrams illustrating
examples of a guidance displaying screen that is displayed after a
setting operation is performed;
[0017] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of a display
control process according to a second exemplary embodiment of the
present invention;
[0018] FIGS. 14A to 14C are schematic diagrams illustrating
examples of a guidance displaying screen that is displayed before a
setting operation is performed; and
[0019] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a
guidance displaying screen that recommends the user to switch a
copy mode from simple copy to normal copy.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0020] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be
described in detail below with reference to the accompanying
drawings.
First Exemplary Embodiment
Service Providing Apparatus
[0021] A service providing apparatus according to a first exemplary
embodiment of the present invention will be described. The service
providing apparatus may be a multifunction printer that provides
multiple service processes. The service providing apparatus
according to this exemplary embodiment provides multiple service
processes, which include at least a copy process, a print process,
an image reading process, and a facsimile process. Hereinafter, the
copy process, the print process, the image reading process, and the
facsimile process may be referred to as "copying", "printing",
"scanning", and "fax", respectively. Also, the service processes
may be simply referred to as "services", such as a normal copy
process being referred to as "normal copy".
Overall Configuration of Service Providing Apparatus
[0022] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a
configuration of the service providing apparatus according to the
first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated
in FIG. 1, a service providing apparatus 10 includes a controller
12, an operation-display section 14, an image reading section 16,
an image forming section 18, a sheet transporting section 20, a
communication section 22, and a memory 24. This configuration of
the service providing apparatus 10 is merely an example, and thus
the configuration and arrangement of the individual sections may be
changed, such as an unnecessary functional section being removed or
a new functional section being added.
[0023] The controller 12 is implemented as a computer that controls
the service providing apparatus 10 and performs various
computations. Specifically, the controller 12 includes a central
processing unit (CPU) 12A, a read only memory (ROM) 12B that stores
various programs, a random access memory (RAM) 12C that is used as
a work area during execution of a program, a nonvolatile memory 12D
that stores various pieces of information, and an input/output
interface (I/O) 12E. The CPU 12A, the ROM 12B, the RAM 12C, the
nonvolatile memory 12D, and the I/O 12E are connected to each other
via a bus 12F.
[0024] Each of the operation-display section 14, the image reading
section 16, the image forming section 18, the sheet transporting
section 20, the communication section 22, and the memory 24 is
connected to the I/O 12E of the controller 12. The controller 12
exchanges information with each of the operation-display section
14, the image reading section 16, the image forming section 18, the
sheet transporting section 20, the communication section 22, and
the memory 24 so as to control the section.
[0025] The operation-display section 14 includes various buttons
and an operation panel that displays various screens. With these
components, the operation-display section 14 accepts operations
performed by the user and displays various pieces of information to
the user. Details about the configuration of the operation-display
section 14 will be described later.
[0026] The image reading section 16 includes an image reading
device, such as an image sensor, that optically reads an image
formed on a sheet; and a scanning mechanism that performs a scan on
a sheet. With these components, the image reading section 16 reads
an image formed on an original document placed at the image reading
section 16 and generates image information.
[0027] The image forming section 18 is a device that forms an image
on a sheet. For example, the image forming section 18 that uses the
electrophotographic system to form an image includes an image
forming unit and a fixing device. The image forming unit includes a
photoconductor drum, a charging device, an exposure device, a
developing device, a transfer device, and a cleaning device.
[0028] Now, an image forming operation based on the
electrophotography will be briefly described. The photoconductor
drum is charged by the charging device. The exposure device exposes
the charged photoconductor drum to light that is modulated in
accordance with image data, thereby forming an electrostatic latent
image corresponding to the image data on the photoconductor drum.
The developing device develops, by using toners, the electrostatic
latent image formed on the photoconductor drum. The transfer device
transfers the resultant toner image formed on the photoconductor
drum onto a sheet. The fixing device fixes the transferred toner
image on the sheet.
[0029] The sheet transporting section 20 includes a sheet container
that holds sheets therein, pickup rollers that pick up a sheet from
the sheet container, and transporting rollers that transport a
sheet that has been picked up. With these components, the sheet
transporting section 20 transports a sheet picked up from the sheet
container to the image forming section 18. The sheet transporting
section 20 also transports a sheet on which an image has been
formed by the image forming section 18 to a sheet output tray.
[0030] The communication section 22 is an interface that
communicates with an external apparatus via a wired or wireless
communication network. For example, the communication section 22
functions as an interface that communicates with an external
apparatus, such as a computer, that is connected to a network, such
as a local area network (LAN) or the Internet. For example, the
communication section 22 communicates with an external apparatus,
such as a computer, so as to acquire image information, image
formation information used in image formation, or the like from the
external apparatus. The communication section 22 may also acquire
various programs, such as application programs, from an external
apparatus.
[0031] The memory 24 includes a storage device, such as a hard disk
drive. The memory 24 stores various programs and various kinds of
data, such as log data.
[0032] Various drives may be connected to the controller 12. The
drives are devices that read data from a computer readable portable
recording media, such as a flexible disk, a magneto-optical disk, a
compact disc-read only memory (CD-ROM), and a universal serial bus
(USB) memory, and that write data on the computer readable portable
recording media. When the various drives are connected, the
controller 12 may load a program recorded on a portable recording
medium by using the corresponding drive and may execute the
program.
Configuration of Operation-Display Section
[0033] Now, a configuration of the operation-display section 14
will be described.
[0034] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a
configuration of the operation-display section 14 according to this
exemplary embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated in
FIG. 2, the operation-display section 14 includes a display
controller 30, a timer 38, an operation panel 40, a display screen
generation unit 42, an input accepting unit 44, and a memory 46. As
described with reference to FIG. 1, the operation-display section
14 is connected to the controller 12 of the service providing
apparatus 10 via the I/O 12E. The configuration of the
operation-display section 14 is merely an example, and thus the
configuration and arrangement of the individual components may be
changed, such as an unnecessary functional unit being removed or a
new functional unit being added.
[0035] The display controller 30 is implemented as a computer that
controls the operation-display section 14 and performs various
computations. Specifically, the display controller 30 includes a
CPU 32, a ROM 34, and a RAM 36. In this exemplary embodiment, the
ROM 34 stores a control program used when a "display control
process" described below or the like is executed. The CPU 32 reads
a stored program from the ROM 34 and executes the program by using
the RAM 36 as a work area.
[0036] Each of the CPU 32, the ROM 34, and the RAM 36 of the
display controller 30 is connected to the timer 38, the display
screen generation unit 42, the input accepting unit 44, and the
memory 46 via a bus 48. The display controller 30 exchanges
information with the timer 38, the display screen generation unit
42, the input accepting unit 44, and the memory 46 so as to control
these components.
[0037] The timer 38 is a measurement device that measures a period
taken to perform a setting operation for each function. The
operation panel 40 includes various buttons, such as a start button
and numeral buttons; a liquid crystal display for displaying
various screens; and a touch panel. Arrangement of the individual
components in the operation panel 40 will be described later. The
operation panel 40 is connected to each of the display screen
generation unit 42 and the input accepting unit 44.
[0038] The display screen generation unit 42 acquires screen data
in accordance with an instruction given thereto from the display
controller 30, and displays a screen based on the acquired screen
data on the operation panel 40. The screen data is stored in the
memory 46. The input accepting unit 44 accepts an operation
performed by the user on the operation panel 40; identifies a set
function, a set value, a pressed button, and so forth; and notifies
the display controller 30 of the obtained information. For example,
the input accepting unit 44 detects a touch of an object (the
user's finger or the like) onto the touch panel, and identifies a
selected function on the basis of an address of the position where
the touch is detected.
[0039] When an instruction for starting a service process is
accepted, the display controller 30 instructs the controller 12 of
the service providing apparatus 10 to execute the service process.
Based on the content of the service process, the controller 12
controls the image reading section 16, the image forming section
18, the sheet transporting section 20, the communication section
22, and the memory 24 so as to execute the service process.
[0040] The memory 46 stores various kinds of data. In this
exemplary embodiment, the memory 46 stores screen data 50, an
operation history 52, user information 54, and control data 56. The
screen data 50 includes pieces of data that correspond to various
screens to be displayed on the operation panel 40. Examples of the
screens to be displayed on the operation panel 40 include a
"service selection screen" that displays a list of available
services, "setting screens" that display settable functions, and
"guidance displaying screens" that will be described later.
[0041] The operation history 52 includes information that
represents contents of operations that have been performed by each
user. Every time the service providing apparatus 10 is used by a
user, a new operation history record, which contains information
about the set function, the set value, and the setting period, is
acquired and is stored in association with the user. The new
operation history record is added to the operation history 52,
whereby the operation history 52 is updated. The operation history
52 will be described later using a specific example (see FIG.
8).
[0042] The user information 54 includes pieces of information used
to authenticate each user in a login process. In the user
information 54, a user name and a password are stored in
association with each other. The control data 56 includes various
kinds of data used when the display controller 30 executes a
display control process. The various kinds of data may take forms
of set values, tables, graphs, or the like. Examples of the control
data 56 include an "initial value of each function" that is used
when the set value is initialized, a "threshold" that is used when
control is switched between, and a "condition" that is used for
conditional branching.
[0043] Referring now to FIG. 3, an example of the configuration of
the operation panel 40 will be described specifically. The
operation panel 40 is arranged at an easy-to-operate position for
the user, such as on an upper surface of the body of the service
providing apparatus 10. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the operation
panel 40 includes a touch panel 60 and buttons 70. Each of the
buttons 70 is arranged in the vicinity of the touch panel 60. In
the illustrated arrangement example, each of the buttons 70 is
arranged on the right side of the touch panel 60.
[0044] The touch panel 60 has a function of a liquid crystal
display. The function of a liquid crystal display allows the touch
panel 60 to display a screen, such as a setting screen, thereon.
When the user touches an image (a button) displayed on the touch
panel 60, the touch panel 60 identifies a function or the like that
is associated with the touched image in accordance with an address
of the position where the touch is detected. Hereinafter, the
action "to touch an image representing a button" is expressed as
"to press a button".
[0045] The buttons 70 include numeral buttons 72, a start button
74, a reset button 76, a clear button 78, a login button 80, and a
logout button 82. The configuration of the operation panel 40 is
merely an example, and thus the configuration and arrangement of
the individual components may be changed, such as an unnecessary
button being removed or a new button being added. For example,
instead of the login button 80 and the logout button 82, images for
login and logout may be included in a service selection screen.
[0046] The numeral buttons 72 are used by the user to enter a
value, such as the number of copies. The start button 74 is used to
start execution of each service. The reset button 76 is used to
reset the selected service and the set value of each function. The
clear button 78 is used to clear the set value of each function.
The login button 80 is used by the user to start a login process.
The logout button 82 is used by the user to log out from the
service providing apparatus 10.
Normal Service and Simple Service
[0047] Now, a "normal service" and a "simple service" will be
described.
[0048] The service providing apparatus 10 provides multiple service
processes. In this exemplary embodiment, a normal service and a
simple service are prepared for some of the service processes. The
simple service is a service prepared for users, such as
unaccustomed users who are unaccustomed to using the service
providing apparatus 10, users with poor eyesight, and users who do
not use complicated settings. The following describes differences
between the normal service and the simple service.
[0049] The normal service is a mode that allows the user to make
settings for all functions provided in the service. Thus, a setting
screen for the normal service (hereinafter, referred to as a
"normal setting screen") includes buttons for making settings of
all functions. In the normal service, a complicated setting or a
special setting is made using various functions in combination.
However, because buttons are arranged in multiple layers, the
setting operation is complicated. Accordingly, an unaccustomed user
takes some time to perform the setting operation.
[0050] The simple service is a mode that allows the user to make
settings of some of all functions provided in the normal service.
In the simple service, functions to be provided are limited to
basic ones or convenient ones, and thus the number of functions
settable in the simple service is less than that of the normal
service. That is, functions settable in the simple service are also
settable in the normal service but some of functions settable in
the normal service are not settable in the simple service.
[0051] A setting screen for the simple service (hereinafter,
referred to as a "simple setting screen") includes buttons for
making settings of some functions, such as basic functions or
convenient functions. Also, because the number of functions to be
provided in the simple service is less than that of the normal
service, the buttons for the provided services are displayed as a
list. This allows an unaccustomed user to perform the setting
operation more easily. Furthermore, the individual functions are
displayed using large characters and large buttons. This allows a
user with poor eyesight to perform the setting operation more
easily.
[0052] In the related art, even when the simple service is prepared
for a service process, the normal service and the simple service
are not properly used. As a result, the simple service is not
effectively used. There are users who select the normal service
even though their desired function is settable in the simple
service and consequently take some time to perform the setting
operation.
[0053] In this exemplary embodiment, in the case where a service
process for which the simple service is prepared is executed, a
message, which recommends a user who in the normal service has made
settings of functions that are settable in the simple service to
use the simple service, is displayed to the user. The message that
recommends the user to use the simple service makes opportunity for
the user to use the simple service, leading to effective
utilization of the simple service.
Service Selection Screen
[0054] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a
service selection screen. As illustrated in FIG. 4, a service
selection screen 100 is a screen that displays a list of service
processes to be selected and is also called a menu screen. The
service selection screen 100 has a message display portion 102 and
a selection target display portion 104. The selection target
display portion 104 displays multiple buttons, which include a copy
selection button 106, a fax selection button 108, a scan selection
button 110, a simple copy selection button 112, and a simple fax
selection button 114.
[0055] In the example illustrated in FIG. 4, the normal service and
the simple service are prepared for two services, namely, the copy
process and the fax process. Regarding these service processes, one
of the normal service and the simple service is used in accordance
with selection made by the user. The following specifically
describes a normal setting screen used in normal copy and a simple
setting screen used in simple copy.
Normal Setting Screen
[0056] FIGS. 5A and 5B are schematic diagrams illustrating examples
of the normal setting screens used in normal copy. Upon the copy
selection button 106 being pressed on the service selection screen
100 illustrated in FIG. 4, the service selection screen 100 changes
to a normal setting screen 200 illustrated in FIG. 5A.
[0057] The normal setting screen 200 includes a message display
portion 202 and a selection target display portion 204. The
selection target display portion 204 displays a basic settings
screen 206, an image quality adjustments screen 208, a reading
settings screen 210, an output adjustments screen 212, and an
edition settings screen 214. Each of the basic settings screen 206,
the image quality adjustments screen 208, the reading settings
screen 210, the output adjustments screen 212, and the edition
settings screen 214 has a tab button for displaying the screen,
buttons used to set various functions, and value accepting parts
that accept set values.
[0058] Upon a button displayed on the normal setting screen 200
being pressed, a function setting is made or the displayed screen
changes to a parallel layer screen, a lower layer screen, or an
option displaying screen. Here, the "function setting" includes
setting of a value associated with the function. As illustrated in
FIG. 5A, the basic settings screen 206 is displayed first when the
displayed screen changes from the service selection screen 100.
[0059] For example, as a result of a button 220 that displays
"100%" in a magnification selection portion being pressed on the
basic settings screen 206, a value "100%" is set for a settable
function "magnification selection". Also, as a result of a tab
button that displays "image quality adjustments" being pressed, the
basic settings screen 206 changes to the image quality adjustments
screen 208 as illustrated in FIG. 5B.
[0060] As a result of a button 222 that displays "other
percentages" in the magnification selection portion being pressed
on the basic settings screen 206, the displayed screen changes to a
magnification selection screen (not illustrated), which includes
buttons and value accepting parts for setting a magnification
format in which the vertical and horizontal magnifications are
separately set and for setting a fixed magnification ratio, such as
the A3 size to the A4 size. The magnification selection screen is a
lower layer screen of the basic settings screen 206. Also, as a
result of a button 224 that displays "N-up" being pressed, the
basic settings screen 206 changes to a selection screen (not
illustrated), which displays buttons for selecting "off", "2-up",
"4-up", and so forth. This selection screen is an option displaying
screen of the basic settings screen 206.
[0061] Each of the image quality adjustments screen 208, the
reading settings screen 210, the output adjustments screen 212, and
the edition settings screen 214 is a parallel layer screen of the
basic settings screen 206. As a result of the corresponding tab
button being pressed, the displayed screen changes to the reading
settings screen 210, the output adjustments screen 212, or the
edition settings screen 214. As in the basic settings screen 206, a
function setting is made or the displayed screen changes to a
parallel layer screen, a lower layer screen, or an option
displaying screen regarding the image quality adjustments screen
208, the reading settings screen 210, the output adjustments screen
212, and the edition settings screen 214.
[0062] As describes above, the normal setting screen 200 has
buttons used to set all functions provided in the normal service.
The user who uses the normal setting screen 200 first displays a
parallel layer screen to set a desired function. Then, the user
displays a lower layer screen or an option displaying screen in
order to set the function on the displayed parallel layer screen,
thereby making a setting for the desired function, although the
function may be set on the displayed parallel layer screen.
Accordingly, an unaccustomed user takes a long time to perform the
setting operation.
Simple Setting Screen
[0063] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the
simple setting screen used in simple copy. Upon the simple copy
selection button 112 being pressed on the service selection screen
100 illustrated in FIG. 4, the service selection screen 100 changes
to a simple setting screen 300 illustrated in FIG. 6. The simple
setting screen 300 includes buttons used to set some of all
functions provided in the normal service. Functions that are
settable in the simple service are also settable in the normal
service.
[0064] In the example illustrated in FIG. 6, the simple setting
screen 300 includes a message display portion 302 and a selection
target display portion 304. The selection target display portion
304 displays a sheet selection portion 306, a magnification
selection portion 308, a single-sided/double-sided selection
portion 310, a color mode selection portion 312, a density setting
portion 314, a button 316, and a button 318.
[0065] The sheet selection portion 306 and the magnification
selection portion 308 each display multiple options (buttons) in a
pull-down format, for example. As a result of one of the buttons
being pressed, a function and a value associated with the button
are set. The single-sided/double-sided selection portion 310 has
buttons that allow selection of "1 to 1 (single-sided originals to
single-sided copies)", "1 to 2 (single-sided originals to
double-sided copies)", and "2 to 2 (double-sided originals to
double-sided copies)". The color mode selection portion 312 has
buttons that allow selection of "auto", "full color", and
"black/white". The button 316 is a button used to set the "2-up"
function. The button 318 is a button used to set the function of
stapling at an upper left position.
[0066] As a result of a button displayed on the simple setting
screen 300 being pressed, a function is set or the displayed screen
changes to a lower layer screen or an option displaying screen.
Functions that are settable on the simple setting screen 300 are
limited to basic functions, convenient functions, or the like.
Also, the simple setting screen 300 displays the settable functions
as a list. Thus, the simple setting screen 300 makes it easier for
an unaccustomed user to perform the setting operation than the
normal setting screen 200.
Operation Performed by Display Controller
[0067] Now, an operation performed by the display controller 30
will be described.
[0068] The CPU 32 of the display controller 30 reads out a control
program for executing a "display control process" or the like from
the ROM 34, and executes the program by using the RAM 36 as a work
area. Herein, a description will be given using the normal setting
screen and the simple setting screen of the copy process but it is
sufficient if the normal service and the simple service are
prepared for a service process. The service process is not limited
to the copy process and may be the fax process, for example.
Overview of Display Control Process
[0069] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of the
"display control process" according to the first exemplary
embodiment of the present invention. The "display control process"
starts in response to acceptance of a login request from the user.
Here, an overview of the procedure of the display control process
will be described based on an assumption that an instruction for
starting a service process is given after the user finishes setting
functions.
[0070] As illustrated in FIG. 7, in step S100, the display
controller 30 executes a "login process" in which authentication is
performed on the user, in response to a login request made by the
user. In this exemplary embodiment, when the user presses the login
button 80, the login request is accepted. It is assumed here that
the user is permitted to log in. In step S102, the display
controller 30 executes a "setting accepting process" in which a
setting operation performed by the user is accepted through the
operation panel 40. When the user presses the start button 74 after
the setting accepting process ends, an instruction for starting the
service process is accepted.
[0071] In response to acceptance of an instruction for starting a
service process, the display controller 30 instructs the controller
12 of the service providing apparatus 10 to execute the service
process in step S104. In step S106, the display controller 30
displays an in-execution screen (not illustrated) on the touch
panel 60. This in-execution screen informs the user that the
service process is being executed. In step S108, the display
controller 30 executes a "guidance display process" in which a
guidance displaying screen is displayed. Here, the "guidance
displaying screen" displays a message that recommends the use of
the simple service. This guidance displaying screen is displayed to
users who are suited to using the simple service.
[0072] In step S110, the display controller 30 determines whether
or not a logout request is made by the user. In this exemplary
embodiment, when the user presses the logout button 82, a logout
request is accepted. If a logout request is made, the display
controller 30 terminates the routine of the display control
process. If no logout request is made, the process returns to step
S102 and the display controller 30 repeatedly performs steps S102
to S110 until it accepts a logout request. After terminating the
routine of the display control process, the display controller 30
displays an initial screen, a standby screen, or the like on the
touch panel 60.
[0073] In this exemplary embodiment, when it is determined that the
user is suited to using the simple service, the guidance displaying
screen is displayed on the touch panel 60 after the user finishes
the setting operation. As described below, whether or not the user
is suited to using the simple service is determined in accordance
with a history of settings made by the user. The subroutines,
namely, the "login process", the "setting accepting process", and
the "guidance display process", will be described below.
Login Process
[0074] Now, the "login process" will be described.
[0075] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of the "login
process". The "login process" starts in response to acceptance of a
login request from the user. As illustrated in FIG. 9, in step
S200, the display controller 30 displays a login screen (not
illustrated) on the touch panel 60. The login screen requests the
user to enter information necessary for authentication of the user.
In this exemplary embodiment, the login screen requests the user to
enter the user name and the password. When the user presses the
start button 74 after entering the user name and the password, an
instruction for starting authentication is accepted.
[0076] In step S202, the display controller 30 determines whether
or not an instruction for starting authentication is accepted. If
the instruction is accepted, the process proceeds to step S204 and
the display controller 30 acquires the user name and the password.
If the instruction is not accepted, the process returns to step
S202. Step 202 is repeatedly performed until the instruction for
starting authentication is accepted.
[0077] After acquiring the user name and the password in step S204,
the process proceeds to step S206. In step S206, the display
controller 30 refers to the user information 54 stored in the
memory 46 to perform authentication. Specifically, based on the
user information 54, the display controller 30 determines whether
or not the acquired user name and password match a user name and a
password contained in the user information 54. If the user names
and passwords match, authenticates is successful. If the user names
and passwords do not match, authentication is not successful. In
step S208, the display controller 30 determines whether or not
authentication is successful. If authentication is successful, the
display controller 30 terminates the routine of the login
process.
[0078] If the authentication is not successful, the process returns
to step S200 and the display controller 30 displays the login
screen (not illustrated) on the touch panel 60 again. The display
controller 30 then repeats steps S200 to S208 until the user is
authenticated. Alternatively, if authentication is not successful
after steps S200 to S208 are performed multiple times, the display
controller 30 may terminate the routine of the login process. Also,
the login process may be performed using information read from an
IC chip or a code attached to a card or the like carried by the
user.
Setting Accepting Process
[0079] Now, the "setting accepting process" will be described.
[0080] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of the
"setting accepting process". The "setting accepting process" starts
after the user logs in. As illustrated in FIG. 10, in step S300,
the display controller 30 displays the service selection screen 100
(see FIG. 4) on the touch panel 60. When the user presses a service
selection button, selection of a service is accepted.
[0081] In step S302, the display controller 30 determines whether
or not the normal service is selected. If the normal service is
selected, the process proceeds to step S304. In step S304, the
display controller 30 displays the normal setting screen 200 (see
FIG. 5A) on the touch panel 60 and then the process proceeds to
step S308. If the simple service is selected, the process proceeds
to step S306. In step S306, the display controller 30 displays the
simple setting screen 300 (see FIG. 6) on the touch panel 60 and
then the process proceeds to step S308.
[0082] In step S308, the display controller 30 initializes set
values of functions. "Initial values of functions" used when the
set values are initialized are stored in the memory 46 as the
control data 56. In step S310, the display controller 30 starts the
timer 38 to measure a time period and then the process proceeds to
step S312. Starting of the timer 38 indicates starting of a setting
operation.
[0083] When the user presses a button, processing is performed in
accordance with the pressed button in the setting accepting
process. Accordingly, which button is pressed, that is, what
instruction is given, is determined sequentially. In step S312, the
display controller 30 determines whether or not a logout request is
made by the user. In this exemplary embodiment, when the user
presses the logout button 82, a logout request is accepted. If a
logout request is made, the display controller 30 terminates the
routine of the display control process as illustrated in FIG. 7. On
the other hand, if no logout request is made, the process proceeds
to step S314.
[0084] In step S314, the display controller 30 determines whether
or not a reset instruction is given by the user. In this exemplary
embodiment, when the user presses the reset button 76, a reset
instruction is accepted. If the reset instruction is given, the
process returns to step S300 and the display controller 30 displays
the service selection screen 100 on the touch panel 60 again. On
the other hand, if no reset instruction is given, the process
proceeds to step S316.
[0085] In step S316, the display controller 30 determines whether
or not an instruction for starting a service process is given by
the user. In this exemplary embodiment, when the user presses the
start button 74, an instruction for starting a service process is
accepted. The user gives an instruction for starting a service
process after finishing setting the functions. Accordingly, if no
instruction for starting a service process is given, the process
proceeds to step S318, in which the display controller 30
determines whether or not a set value is changed. In this exemplary
embodiment, when the user presses a function selection button on
the normal setting screen or the simple setting screen, the change
of the set value is accepted.
[0086] If the set value is changed, the process proceeds to step
S320, in which the changed function (set function) and the changed
set value are stored in the RAM 36. In step S322, a setting period
is stored in the RAM 36. If the set value is not changed, step S320
is skipped and the process proceeds to step S322, in which the
setting period is stored in the RAM 36. If the set value is changed
and thereafter is returned to the initial value, such as in the
case where a function selection button is pressed and thereafter
this operation is cancelled, the set function and the set value
need not be recorded in the operation history. Thus, the display
controller 30 determines that the set value is not changed.
[0087] After the setting period is stored in step S322, the process
returns to step S312. The display controller 30 repeatedly performs
steps S312 to S322. In this way, the functions are sequentially set
and the set functions and the set values thereof are sequentially
stored. Also, the setting periods of the functions are sequentially
stored. Here, the "setting period" is a period (a pressing
interval) from when one function selection button is pressed to
when a next function selection button is pressed. In the case where
a function is selected for the first time, a period from when the
setting operation is started to when the function selection button
is pressed is treated as the "setting period".
[0088] If an instruction for starting a service process is given in
step S316, the process proceeds to step S324, in which the display
controller 30 checks the set functions, the set values, the setting
periods, and an operation period. Here, the "operation period" is a
period from when the setting operation is started to when an
instruction for starting a service process is given. In step S326,
the display controller 30 stores an operation history record
containing information about the set functions, the set values, the
setting periods, and the operation period in the memory 46 in
association with the user. Specifically, the display controller 30
adds the latest operation history record of the user to the
operation history 52 so as to update the operation history 52
stored in the memory 46. After storing the operation history record
in step S326, the display controller 30 terminates the routine of
the "setting accepting process".
[0089] In the case where the user uses the service providing
apparatus 10 for the first time and no operation history of the
user is found, a record regarding the operation performed by the
user may be stored in the RAM 36 or the memory 46 in order to use
the latest operation history record of the user in the "guidance
display process" to be performed subsequently.
[0090] Referring now to FIG. 8, an example of a table that stores
an operation history will be described. In the example illustrated
in FIG. 8, each user and an operation history of the user are
stored in association with each other. The user is represented by
identification information that enables identification of the user,
for example, the user name or the user identification number (ID).
The operation history may be any history information that indicates
the state of an operation performed by the user. In the example
illustrated in FIG. 8, the operation date and time, the selected
service, the set functions, the set values, and the setting periods
are stored as an operation history record. This example illustrates
operation history records of the copy process but the service
process is not limited to the copy process.
Guidance Display Process
[0091] Now, the "guidance display process" will be described.
[0092] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of the
"guidance display process". In this exemplary embodiment, the
"guidance display process" starts after the user finishes the
setting operation. As illustrated in FIG. 11, in step S400, the
display controller 30 acquires an operation history.
[0093] In step S402, the display controller 30 determines whether
or not a guidance display condition for displaying a guidance that
recommends the user to use the simple service is satisfied. In this
exemplary embodiment, the "guidance display condition" is a
condition regarding whether or not every function set in the normal
service is settable in the simple service. Based on the latest
operation history of the user, the display controller 30 determines
whether or not the "guidance display condition" is satisfied.
Specifically, if every function set in the normal service is
settable in the simple service, it is determined that the guidance
display condition is satisfied.
[0094] For example, referring to FIG. 8, a user ABC who used the
normal copy on Jan. 4, 2012 set "1 to 2 (single-sided originals to
double-sided copies)" for the double-sided/single-sided selection,
"100%" for the magnification selection, and "full color" for the
color mode. All of these functions are settable in the simple copy.
Thus, it is determined that the guidance display condition was
satisfied when the service providing apparatus 10 was used on Jan.
4, 2012.
[0095] If the guidance display condition is satisfied, the process
proceeds to step S404, in which the display controller 30 displays
the guidance displaying screen on the touch panel 60. The guidance
message that recommends the use of the simple service is displayed
to users who are suited to using the simple service. On the other
hand, if the guidance display condition is not satisfied, the
display controller 30 terminates the routine of the "guidance
display process" without displaying the guidance displaying
screen.
[0096] The condition regarding whether or not every function set in
the normal service is settable in the simple service is used as the
"guidance display condition" above but an additional guidance
display condition may be further used. For example, conditions
regarding whether or not every function set in the normal service
is settable in the simple service and whether or not a setting
period of each function is longer than or equal to a predetermined
period may be used as the "guidance display conditions".
[0097] In the example illustrated in FIG. 8, regarding the user ABC
who used the normal copy on Jan. 4, 2012, the setting period of the
double-sided/single-sided selection is "30 seconds", the setting
period of the magnification selection is "15 seconds", and the
setting period of the color mode is "45 seconds". In general, a
period taken to set one function is several seconds. For example,
when the predetermined period is "5 seconds", these setting periods
are longer than the predetermined period. Thus, it is determined
that the guidance display conditions are satisfied.
[0098] Now, the "guidance displaying screen" will be described.
FIGS. 12A and 12B are schematic diagrams illustrating examples of a
guidance displaying screen that is displayed after the setting
operation is finished. A guidance displaying screen 400 illustrated
in FIG. 12A includes a message display portion 402 and an execution
state display portion 404. In this example, the message display
portion 402 displays a message "Simple copy offers you easier
copying" or the like, thereby displaying a guidance that recommends
the user to use the simple service. Also, the execution state
display portion 404 displays the execution state of the service
process, such as that the service process is being executed or
execution of the service process is finished.
[0099] A guidance displaying screen 410 illustrated in FIG. 12B
includes a message display portion 412, an execution state display
portion 414, and a popup screen 416. The popup screen 416 is a
window that is displayed so as to be superimposed on the execution
state display portion 414 and that is smaller than the execution
state display portion 414. In this example, the popup screen 416
displays a message "Simple copy offers you easier copying" or the
like, thereby displaying a guidance that recommends the user to use
the simple service.
Second Exemplary Embodiment
[0100] In the first exemplary embodiment, the example has been
described in which a guidance displaying screen is displayed after
the user finishes a setting operation. In a second exemplary
embodiment, a guidance displaying screen is displayed to the user
whose operation history is not found after the user finishes a
setting operation, whereas the guidance displaying screen is
displayed to the user whose operation history is found before the
user starts a setting operation.
[0101] In the case of the initial use, whether or not to display
the guidance displaying screen that recommends the user to use the
simple service is determined in accordance with an operation
history regarding one setting operation and the guidance displaying
screen is displayed after the setting operation is finished. In
contrast, in the case of the second or following use, whether or
not to display the guidance displaying screen that recommends the
user to use the simple service is determined in accordance with an
operation history regarding multiple setting operations and the
guidance displaying screen is displayed to the user before the user
starts a setting operation.
Operation Performed by Display Controller
[0102] Now, an operation performed by the display controller 30
will be described.
[0103] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of a
"display control process" according to the second exemplary
embodiment of the present invention. The "display control process"
starts in response to acceptance of a login request from the user.
Here, an overview of the procedure of the display control process
will be described. Steps that are the same as those of FIG. 7 are
assigned the same reference numerals and a description thereof is
omitted.
[0104] As illustrated in FIG. 13, the display controller 30
executes the "login process" in step S100. In step S101, the
display controller 30 determines whether or not an operation
history of the user who has logged in is found. If it is determined
that no operation history is found, the process proceeds to step
S102, in which the "setting accepting process" is executed. In step
S104, the display controller 30 instructs the controller 12 to
execute the service process. In step S106, the display controller
30 displays the in-execution screen (not illustrated) on the touch
panel 60. In step S108, the display controller 30 executes the
"guidance display process" and then the process proceeds to step
S110.
[0105] On the other hand, if it is determined that an operation
history of the user who has logged in is found in step S101, the
process proceeds to step S112. In step S112, the display controller
30 executes a "setting accepting process" in which a setting
operation performed by the user is accepted. In this exemplary
embodiment, the "guidance display process" is executed within the
"setting accepting process" as described below. After accepting an
instruction for starting a service process, the display controller
30 instructs the controller 12 to execute the service process in
step S114. The display controller 30 displays the in-execution
screen (not illustrated) on the touch panel 60 in step S116, and
the process then proceeds to step S110.
[0106] In step S110, the display controller 30 determines whether
or not a logout request is made by the user. If a logout request is
made, the display controller 30 terminates the routine of the
display control process. On the other hand, if no logout request is
made, the process returns to step S101 and the display controller
30 repeatedly performs steps S101 to S116 until it accepts a logout
request.
[0107] In this exemplary embodiment, in the case where the user
uses the service providing apparatus 10 for the second time or
more, it is determined based on the operation history whether or
not the user is suited to using the simple service. If the user is
suited to using the simple service, the guidance displaying screen
is displayed on the touch panel 60 before the user starts a setting
operation.
[0108] Referring to FIG. 10, the "guidance display process"
performed within the "setting accepting process" will be described.
FIGS. 14A to 14C are schematic diagrams illustrating examples of a
guidance displaying screen that is displayed before a setting
operation is performed. In this exemplary embodiment, the guidance
displaying screen is displayed before the user starts a setting
operation.
[0109] For example, the "guidance display process" may be executed
when the service selection screen is displayed in step S300 of FIG.
10. Before displaying the service selection screen in step S300,
the display controller 30 acquires an operation history of the user
and determines whether or not the guidance display condition is
satisfied in accordance with the operation history. If the guidance
display condition is satisfied, the display controller 30 displays
a message "Simple copy offers you easier copying" or the like at a
message display portion 502 of a service selection screen 500 as
illustrated in FIG. 14A, thereby displaying a guidance that
recommends the user to use the simple service. Also, the display
controller 30 may change the color of simple service selection
buttons among buttons displayed in a selection target display
portion 504 of the service selection screen 500 or the like so that
the simple service selection buttons stand out.
[0110] Alternatively, the display controller 30 may execute the
"guidance display process" when the normal setting screen is
displayed in step S304 of FIG. 10. In this case, before the normal
setting screen is displayed in step S304, the display controller 30
acquires an operation history of the user and determines whether or
not the guidance display condition is satisfied in accordance with
the operation history. If the guidance display condition is
satisfied, the display controller 30 displays a message "Simple
copy offers you easier copying" or the like in a message display
portion 602 of a normal setting screen 600 as illustrated in FIG.
14B, thereby displaying a guidance that recommends the user to use
the simple service. In this case, no change is made on a selection
target display portion 604.
[0111] In the case where the "guidance display process" is executed
when the normal setting screen is displayed, a normal setting
screen 610 that has a popup screen 616 may be displayed as
illustrated in FIG. 14C. The popup screen 616 is a window that is
displayed so as to be superimposed on an execution state display
portion 614 and that is smaller than the execution state display
portion 614. In this example, a message "Simple copy offers you
easier copying" or the like is displayed in the popup screen 616,
whereby a guidance that recommends the user to use the simple
service is displayed.
[0112] Also, in this example, the popup screen 616 displays a
message "Move to simple copy?" and selection buttons so that one of
the simple setting screen and the normal setting screen is
selected. If an agreement button 618 that displays "Yes" is
pressed, the displayed screen changes to the simple setting screen.
If a denial button 620 that displays "No" is pressed, the setting
operation is continuously performed on the normal setting
screen.
[0113] In the case where the guidance display screen is displayed
before the user starts a setting operation, it is determined based
on an operation history regarding multiple setting operations
whether or not the user is suited to using the simple service.
Here, a "guidance display condition" that is the same as or that is
different from the "guidance display condition" of the first
exemplary embodiment may be set. For example, a condition regarding
whether or not a ratio of functions settable in the simple service
to all set functions is greater than or equal to a predetermined
value may be used as the "guidance display condition". When this
condition is used, the use of the simple service is recommended if
the ratio of functions settable in the simple service to all set
functions is greater than or equal to the predetermined value.
[0114] In the example illustrated in FIG. 8, the user ABC who used
the normal copy on Jul. 15, 2012 also used the normal copy on Jan.
4, 2012. The double-sided/single-sided selection function "2 to 1
(double-sided originals to single-sided copies)" used in the normal
copy on Jul. 15, 2012 is a function that is not settable in the
simple copy. Thus, the ratio of functions settable in the simple
service is "75%" (herein, the ratio is expressed using
percentages). Suppose that the predetermined value is 70%. Then,
the ratio of functions settable in the simple service is greater
than the predetermined value. Thus, it is determined that the user
ABC satisfied the guidance display condition at the time point of
Jul. 15, 2012. That is, it is determined that the user ABC was
suited to using the simple service.
[0115] Also, a user XYZ who used the normal copy on Jul. 15, 2012
also used the normal copy on Apr. 1, 2012. The
double-sided/single-sided selection function "2 to 1 (double-sided
originals to single-sided copies)" and the N-up function "4-up"
used in the normal copy on Apr. 1, 2012 are functions that are not
settable in the simple copy. Thus, the ratio of the number of
functions settable in the simple service is "33%", which is lower
than the predetermined value. Thus, it is determined that the user
XYZ did not satisfy the guidance display condition at the time
point of Jul. 15, 2012. That is, it is determined that the user XYZ
was not suited to using the simple service.
[0116] The "guidance display condition" used above is merely an
example and other "guidance display conditions" may be used.
Because whether or not "guidance display conditions" are satisfied
is determined in accordance with an operation history regarding
multiple setting operations, various "guidance display conditions"
are set. For example, a condition regarding whether or not a ratio
of the number of times functions settable in the simple service are
set to the number of times functions are set is greater than or
equal to a predetermined value may be used as the "guidance display
condition". In the example of the user ABC who used the normal copy
on Jul. 15, 2012, the ratio of the number of times functions
settable in the simple service are set to the number of times
functions are set is "80%".
Modifications
[0117] The display control device, the service providing apparatus,
and the program described in each of the above-described exemplary
embodiments are merely examples and obviously the configurations
thereof may be modified within the scope that does not depart from
the gist of the present invention.
[0118] While the cases in which the guidance displaying screen is
displayed after the user finishes a setting operation and in which
the guidance displaying screen is displayed before the user starts
a setting operation have been described in the first and second
exemplary embodiments above, the guidance displaying screen may be
displayed while the user is performing a setting operation.
Referring to FIG. 10, the "guidance display process" performed
during the "setting operation" will be described. Because the
guidance displaying screen displayed during the setting operation
is substantially the same as that illustrated in FIG. 14B,
illustration thereof is omitted.
[0119] For example, after storing the setting period in step S322
of FIG. 10, the display controller 30 acquires an operation history
(set functions, set values, and setting periods) of the user and
determines whether or not the guidance display condition is
satisfied based on the operation history. If the guidance display
condition is satisfied, the display controller 30 displays a
message "Simple copy offers you easier copying" or the like at the
message display portion 602 of the normal setting screen 600 as
illustrated in FIG. 14B, thereby displaying a guidance that
recommends the user to use the simple service.
[0120] The "guidance display condition" used in the case where the
guidance displaying screen is displayed during the setting
operation may be the same as or different from the "guidance
display condition" of the first and second exemplary embodiments.
For example, a condition regarding whether or not the "setting
period" stored in step S322 of FIG. 10 is longer than or equal to a
predetermined period may be used as the "guidance display
condition". Upon determining that the setting period is longer than
or equal to the predetermined period during the setting operation
performed on the normal setting screen, the display controller 30
displays the guidance displaying screen illustrated in FIG. 14B,
thereby recommending the use of the simple service.
[0121] The example of displaying the guidance displaying screen
that recommends the use of the simple service has been described in
the first and second exemplary embodiments and modifications
thereof above. However, the user possibly wishes to set a function
that is not settable in the simple service while performing an
operation on the simple setting screen. In such a case, a guidance
displaying screen that recommends the use of the normal service may
be displayed. For example, if an operation period of the operation
performed on the simple setting screen is longer than or equal to a
predetermined period (for example, 100 seconds), that is, if a
service process is not started after the predetermined period
passes, the display controller 30 displays a guidance displaying
screen illustrated in FIG. 15.
[0122] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a
guidance displaying screen that recommends switching from the
simple copy to the normal copy. As illustrated in FIG. 15, a simple
setting screen 800 having a popup screen 806 may be displayed as
the guidance displaying screen. The popup screen 806 is a window
that is displayed so as to be superimposed on a selection target
display portion 804 and is smaller than the selection target
display portion 804. In this example, the popup screen 806 displays
a message "Move to normal copy to set other functions?" or the like
and selection buttons, thereby allowing one of the simple setting
screen and the normal setting screen to be selected. In this
example, if an agreement button 808 that displays "Yes" is pressed,
the displayed screen changes to the normal setting screen. If a
denial button 810 that displays "No" is pressed, the setting
operation is continuously performed on the simple setting
screen.
[0123] Also, the example of displaying the guidance displaying
screen has been described in the first and second exemplary
embodiments and the modifications thereof above. However, the
setting of displaying the guidance displaying screen may be
disabled. For example, in the example illustrated in FIG. 8, the
user ABC started using the simple copy on Dec. 28, 2012 and the
operation period "6 seconds" is shorter than those of the previous
cases. In the case where an unaccustomed user has started using the
simple service or in the case where the user becomes accustomed to
perform a setting operation, the setting of displaying the guidance
displaying screen to the user may be "disabled".
[0124] While the examples of displaying a guidance at the message
display portion or on the popup screen has been described in the
first and second exemplary embodiments and the like, the way of
displaying the guidance is not limited to these examples. The
guidance displaying screen may be displayed on the entire screen of
the touch panel 60.
[0125] While the example in which an operation history, which
contains information about the user, the operation date and time,
the selected service, the set functions, the set values, and the
setting periods, is stored as a table in the memory 46 of the
operation-display section 14 has been described in the first and
second exemplary embodiments and the like, the items contained in
the operation history and the way of storing the operation history
are not limited to this example. For example, information
indicating whether or not the guidance is displayed may be
contained in the operation history. Also, the operation history may
be stored in an external storage device, such as a database.
[0126] The foregoing description of the exemplary embodiments of
the present invention has been provided for the purposes of
illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive
or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed.
Obviously, many modifications and variations will be apparent to
practitioners skilled in the art. The embodiments were chosen and
described in order to best explain the principles of the invention
and its practical applications, thereby enabling others skilled in
the art to understand the invention for various embodiments and
with the various modifications as are suited to the particular use
contemplated. It is intended that the scope of the invention be
defined by the following claims and their equivalents.
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