CN101271301B - Display device - Google Patents

Abstract

A display device comprising a display area in which information is displayed; an information storage unit storing therein a plurality of pieces of predetermined information displayable in the display area; an abbreviation storage unit storing therein an abbreviation corresponding to each of the predetermined information an information detecting unit configured to detect first information of the predetermined information as an object to be displayed in the display area; a judging unit judging whether the first information includes a plurality of pieces of information; and a first control A unit configured to obtain each of the first information and its abbreviations from the information storage unit and the abbreviation storage unit respectively when it is judged that the first information includes a plurality of pieces of information, and display the first information in the display area Each of a message and its abbreviation.

Description

display screen

Cross References to Related Applications

This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2007-074635 filed on March 22, 2007 and Japanese Patent Application No. 2008-008684 filed on January 18, 2008. The entire subject matter of these applications is incorporated into this application by reference.

technical field

The following description relates to one or more display devices that allow a user to quickly grasp more information in even a limited display area with fewer operations.

Background technique

Currently, there is known a technique for displaying abbreviated texts in a list form on an LCD display unit, and then selecting one of the abbreviated texts through the operating unit to display the complete text corresponding to the selected abbreviated text ( See, for example, Japanese Patent Provisional Publication No. 2006-126503, hereinafter referred to simply as '503 publication). Note that according to the '503 publication, when the full text cannot be displayed within the screen area of the LCD display unit, the full text will be displayed in a scrolling manner.

Contents of the invention

However, according to this technique disclosed in the '503 publication, the operation of displaying the full text can only be performed for the selected abbreviated text. It is therefore disadvantageous that when the user wishes to grasp the meaning of each displayed abbreviated text, the user has to select it one by one in order to display its full text.

An advantage of aspects of the present invention is that one or more improved display devices can be provided to allow users to quickly grasp more information in even a limited display area with fewer operations.

According to these aspects of the present invention, a display device is proposed, which includes a display area configured to display information therein; an information storage unit configured to store therein a plurality of pieces of predetermined information that can be displayed in the display area an abbreviation storage unit configured to store therein an abbreviation corresponding to each predetermined information stored in the information storage unit; an information detection unit configured to detect the first information of the predetermined information as to be displayed in the display area The object in; the judging unit, configured to judge whether the first information detected by the information detecting unit includes a plurality of pieces of information; and the first control unit, configured to determine that the first information includes a plurality of pieces of information when the judging unit In the case of information, each of the first information and its abbreviation is acquired from the information storage unit and the abbreviation storage unit, respectively, and each of the first information and its abbreviation is displayed in the display area.

In some aspects of the present invention, when multiple pieces of information need to be displayed in the display area of the display device, each piece of information to be displayed and an abbreviation corresponding to each piece of information to be displayed are displayed in the display area. Therefore, the user can recognize from the displayed abbreviations that the displayed information includes a plurality of pieces of information, and also recognize the meaning represented by each piece of information (abbreviation). Therefore, the user can quickly grasp more information even in a limited display area with fewer operations.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a display device is proposed, which includes a display area configured to display information therein; an information storage unit configured to store therein a plurality of pieces of predetermined information that can be displayed in the display area An information detection unit configured to detect display information of predetermined information as an object to be displayed in the display area; a first judgment unit configured to judge whether the display information detected by the information detection unit includes a plurality of pieces of information and a first controller configured to obtain display information from an information storage unit when the first judging unit judges that the display information includes a plurality of pieces of information, and display the display information and the display in the display area The numeric number of the message.

In some aspects, when multiple pieces of information need to be displayed in the display area of the display device, the information to be displayed and the digital number of the information to be displayed are displayed in the display area. Therefore, the user can recognize the numerical number of the message, and can also recognize the meaning that the message represents. Therefore, the user can quickly grasp more information even in a limited display area with fewer operations.

Description of drawings

FIG. 1 is an external view of an image forming apparatus in a first embodiment according to one or more aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main electrical structure of the image forming apparatus in the first embodiment according to one or more aspects of the present invention.

Fig. 3 schematically shows the structure of the error display memory in the first embodiment according to one or more aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 4A is an example of an abbreviated display screen image displayed on an LCD when a plurality of errors are caused in the first embodiment according to one or more aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 4B schematically shows how the screen images displayed on the LCD are switched in the case of causing a plurality of errors in the first embodiment according to one or more aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a screen display process performed in the image forming apparatus in the first embodiment according to one or more aspects of the present invention.

6A is an example of a simplified display screen image displayed on the LCD of the image forming apparatus in the second embodiment according to one or more aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 6B schematically shows how the screen image displayed on the LCD is switched between the simplified display screen image and the detailed display screen image in the first embodiment according to one or more aspects of the present invention.

7 is a flowchart showing a screen display process performed in the image forming apparatus in the second embodiment according to one or more aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 8 schematically shows an abbreviated display screen image in a modification according to one or more aspects of the present invention.

Detailed ways

Note that various connections between elements are set forth in the following description. Note that these connections may generally be direct or indirect unless otherwise stated, and the description is not intended to be limited in this respect. Aspects of the invention can be implemented in the form of computer software as a program that can be stored on a computer readable medium, including but not limited to RAM, ROM, flash memory, EEPROM, CD media, DVD media, temporary memory, hard disk drives, floppy drives, persistent storage, etc.

Embodiments according to these aspects of the present invention are described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is an external view of an image forming apparatus 1 as an example of a display apparatus in the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1 , an image forming apparatus 1 includes a main body 2 formed substantially in a box shape, a paper feed cassette 3 located on the lower side of the opening of the main body 2 , and a receiving tray 4 into which recording paper on which an image is formed is ejected. on tray 4.

An operation panel 14 is provided on the upper side of the main body 2 . In the middle of the operation panel 14, a liquid crystal display 16 (hereinafter referred to as LCD 16) is provided, on which are displayed messages such as operation commands when printing is performed, messages required for each function of the image forming apparatus 1, and the below-mentioned Various messages such as error messages that warn the user that an error has occurred.

Input keys 15 are provided on both sides of the LCD 16, through which input keys 15 can accept user input. The input key 15 includes a numeric keypad with numbers "0" to "9", an asterisk key, a pound key, a clear key for terminating an operation in execution, a start key for starting an operation, and a key for specifying the LCD 16. The arrow keys for the displayed scrolling direction. By operating the enter key 15 as necessary, the image forming apparatus 1 can be operated.

The image forming apparatus 1 is configured as a so-called laser printer, and includes an image forming unit 20, a transfer unit 21 that transfers an image formed by the image forming unit 20 onto recording paper, and a transfer unit 21 that transfers an image formed by the image forming unit 20 onto recording paper, and transfers the An image printed on the recording paper is fixed by a fixing unit 22 (refer to FIG. 2, which shows any of the above units) so that the image can be formed on the fed recording paper.

Next, referring to FIG. 2 , the electrical structure of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main electrical structure of the image forming apparatus. As shown in FIG. 2 , the image forming apparatus 1 has a control unit 30 in charge of overall control of each unit of the image forming apparatus 1 . The ASIC 31 included in the control unit 30 is connected to the image forming unit 20, the transfer unit 21, and the fixing unit 22. Further, the ASIC 31 is connected to the remaining toner sensor 23, the waste toner detection sensor 24, the recording paper sensor 25, the panel door array 15a, and the LCD controller 16a.

The control unit 30 includes a CPU 32, a ROM 33, a RAM 34, a flash memory 35, a network interface 38 (hereinafter referred to as a network I/F 38) and an ASIC 31. Each of the CPU 32, ROM 33, RAM 34, flash memory 35, and network I/F 38 is connected to the ASIC 31 via a bus.

The CPU 32 is a microprocessor for executing various programs stored in the ROM 33. The ROM 33 is a read-only memory on which various programs executed by the CPU 32 and constant values and tables referred to when the programs are executed are stored. Also, the ROM 33 has an error display memory 331. Note that details of the error display memory 331 are described later with reference to FIG. 3 .

The RAM 34 is a memory having a work area for temporarily storing parameters when various programs are executed by the CPU 32. The flash memory 35 is a rewritable memory configured to store various types of data when the image forming apparatus 1 is powered on, and to retain the data even after the image forming apparatus 1 is powered off.

The ASIC 31 is an integrated circuit configured to convert commands issued by the CPU 32 into signals for driving each unit, and to output the converted signals. Also, the ASIC 31 converts the signal output by the panel GA 15a, and sends the converted signal to the CPU 32.

The image forming unit 20 has a photosensitive drum 201 , a charging unit 202 , an exposure unit 203 , and a developing unit 204 . The photosensitive drum 201 is a drum with a toner image formed on its surface. The charging unit 202 is configured to uniformly and positively charge the surface of the photosensitive drum 201 . The exposure unit 203 is configured to irradiate laser light on the surface of the charging unit 202, and has laser oscillators (not shown) each emitting laser light. The developing unit 204 includes a developing roller for attaching toner to the photosensitive drum 201, and a replenishing roller for attaching toner to the developing roller.

The transfer unit 21 has a transfer roller for transferring the toner image carried by the photosensitive drum 201 onto the recording paper, and is connected to the ASIC 26. By applying a negative potential to the transfer roller, the positively charged toner borne by the photosensitive drum 201 can be transferred onto the recording paper.

The fixing unit 22 includes a heating roller for heating the toner transferred onto the recording paper, and a pressing roller for pressing the recording paper between the heating roller and the pressing roller. . With the fixing unit 22 thus configured, the toner transferred onto the recording paper can be fixed.

The remaining toner sensor 23 is constructed with an LED and a phototransistor in order to detect the amount of remaining toner. The detection light emitted by the LED enters the inner space of the toner cartridge (not shown) through the transparent port. Then, when only a small amount of toner remains in the toner cartridge, the phototransistor receives high-brightness detection light because the detection light is not blocked by the toner too much. However, when the toner cartridge is filled with a large amount of toner, the phototransistor receives detection light of low brightness because the detection light is blocked by the toner. Therefore, the remaining toner sensor 23 can detect the remaining toner amount based on the intensity of the detection light received by the phototransistor. When the amount of remaining toner detected by the remaining toner sensor 23 is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, an error message will be displayed on the LCD 16 to guide the user to replace the toner cartridge.

A waste toner detection sensor 24 is placed inside a waste toner box (not shown) located in the main body 2 for accommodating waste toner collected by cleaning, for detecting waste toner held in the waste toner box amount of powder. When the amount of waste toner detected by the waste toner detection sensor 24 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, an error message will be displayed on the LCD 16 to guide the user to replace the waste toner box.

The recording paper sensor 25 is configured to detect the occurrence of a paper jam, for example, caused by recording paper being wound around a roller. When the recording paper sensor 25 detects a paper jam, an error message will be displayed on the LCD 16 to guide the user to remove the recording paper.

The panel GA 15a is configured to control the input keyboard 15 through which an input for supplying a target instruction to the image forming apparatus 1 is received. The panel GA 15a is connected not only to the input key 15, but also to the ASIC 31. The panel GA 15a detects an input through the input key 15, and sends a predetermined encoded signal to the ASIC 31.

The LCD controller 16a controls the LCD 16 to display thereon information related to the operation of the image forming apparatus 1. LCD controller 16a is connected with ASIC 31 and LCD 16.

The network I/F 38 is an interface configured for data communication, and is connected to the ASIC 31 and the PC 100. The network I/F 38 converts the image information received from the PC 100, and sends the converted image information to the CPU 32.

The error display memory 331 is described below with reference to FIG. 3 . FIG. 3 schematically shows the structure of the error display memory 331 . As shown in FIG. 3 , the error display memory 331 is a memory for storing therein an error name 3311 , an error name abbreviation 3312 , and operation information 3313 for each error that may be caused in the image forming apparatus 1 .

The error name 3311 is information indicating what kind of error has occurred. The abbreviation 3312 is information representing the corresponding error name 3311 in abbreviated form. Operation information 3313 is information indicating how to operate the image forming apparatus 1 to resolve the error. For example, the error name "Paper jam inside" is associated with the action message "Open the front cover, completely remove the drum cartridge and remove the jammed paper".

Also, the error name "End of Toner Life" and the operation message "Replace Toner Cartridge" are associated. Also, the error name "Waste toner full" is associated with the operation message "Replace waste toner box. Refer to User's Guide for operation". When an error is detected, error information related to the error caused is read from the error display memory 331 and displayed on the LCD 16. This warns the user that an error has occurred.

Note that for ease of understanding, only three types of errors such as error names, abbreviations and their operation information are described in FIG. 3 . However, the information stored in the error display memory 331 is not limited to the above information, and may further include information on various other errors.

Error messages displayed on the LCD 16 will be described with reference to FIG. 4 . FIG. 4A is an example of an abbreviated display screen image 160 displayed on the LCD when two or more errors are caused. As shown in FIG. 4A, the abbreviated display screen image 160 shows error information read from the error display memory 331 (see FIG. 3). The display area on the LCD 16 is divided into an upper abbreviation area 1601 where an abbreviation 3312 is displayed and a lower information display area 1602 where an error name 3311 is displayed. The abbreviated display screen image 160 displays the error name of the currently causing error and the abbreviation corresponding to the error name in substantially all of the display area on the LCD 16.

As shown in FIG. 4A, since each of the abbreviations "JI", "TLE" and "WTF" has few characters, even if a plurality of errors are caused, the abbreviations of all the errors caused can be displayed side by side at the same time. In this way, the user can grasp a plurality of caused errors even in a limited area at a glance without special operations. Thus, users can quickly take appropriate action for each error. Also, since the wrong name corresponding to the abbreviation is displayed on the lower information display area 1602, the user can intuitively recognize the wrong name while recognizing the abbreviation. Therefore, the user can quickly grasp a large amount of information even in a limited display area.

Meanwhile, each error name displayed in the information display area 1602 has a larger number of characters than the corresponding abbreviation. Therefore, when multiple errors are caused, it may not be possible to display all of the multiple errors at the same time. In this embodiment, when the direction key of the input key 15 is used to designate the left direction or the right direction while the abbreviated display screen image is displayed on the LCD 16, the information in the information display area 1602 will be scrolled and displayed in the designated direction. Thus, all error name texts can be displayed even in a limited display area. Therefore, it is more user-friendly for users who cannot know what type of error has been caused just by the corresponding abbreviation. Moreover, since only the lower information display area 1602 is scrolled, the operations required by the user are simpler than those required to scroll the upper and lower areas individually. Therefore, the user is enabled to easily operate and view the abbreviated display screen image 160 .

As shown in FIG. 4A , the entire text of at least one error name and at least part of the text of another error name are displayed in the information display area 1602 . According to the part of the error name, the user can understand the type of error caused. In this way, users can quickly grasp a large amount of information.

FIG. 4B shows how to switch the screen images displayed on the LCD 16 in the case of causing multiple errors. First, an abbreviated display screen image 160 will be displayed on the LCD 16 when multiple error occurrences are detected. Thereby, the user can intuitively recognize the number of errors caused, and the abbreviation of error names corresponding to the errors caused. The display of the abbreviation display screen image 160 is sufficient for the user to have a good understanding of the types of errors that may be caused, and to quickly understand how to resolve the errors according to the abbreviations and error names displayed in the lower information display area 1602 . However, some users may not be able to understand what type of error is caused by the abbreviation. Also, some users may not understand how to resolve the error based on the abbreviation. In this case, in this embodiment, the abbreviated display screen image 160 is deleted in response to the user's operation, and the detailed display screen image 161 is displayed on the LCD 16 instead.

As shown in FIG. 4B, in the abbreviation display screen image 160 displayed on the LCD 16, in an initial state, reference characters are displayed in a manner associated with each abbreviation. For example, in the abbreviation display screen image 160, the abbreviation "IJ" is associated with the reference character "1". As another example, the abbreviation "TLE" is associated with the reference character "2". Furthermore, the abbreviation "WTF" is associated with the reference character "3". In response to one of the reference characters input by the user, detailed information of an abbreviation corresponding to the input reference character is displayed as the detailed display screen image 161 .

For example, when "1" is input through the input key 15 in a state where the abbreviation display screen image 160 is displayed, a detailed display screen image 161 related to the abbreviation "IJ" is displayed. In addition, when "2" is input through the input key 15 in the same state, a detailed display screen image 161 related to the abbreviation "TLE" is displayed. Also, when "3" is input through the input key 15 in the same state, a detailed display screen image 161 related to the abbreviation "WTF" is displayed.

Accordingly, the user can understand the meaning of reference characters corresponding to the abbreviations on the abbreviation display screen image 160 . Also, by entering reference characters, desired information can be quickly and easily displayed in the display area.

Further, when any one of the detailed display screen images 161 is displayed, by inputting another reference character, the current detailed display screen image is changed to the detailed display screen image 161 corresponding to the input reference character. Thus, in the case of multiple errors, it is possible for the user to quickly and easily visually recognize detailed information related to each error.

Further, the current display on the LCD 16 is switched from the detailed display screen image 161 to the abbreviated display screen image 160 in response to the clear key among the enter keys 15 being pressed while the detailed display screen image 161 is displayed. Thus, when the user wishes to confirm all errors currently occurring, or to know reference characters for displaying a desired detailed display screen image 161, the user can refer to the abbreviated display screen image 160 quickly and easily again.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 4B, the detailed display screen image 161 has an upper error name area 1611 for displaying an error name and a lower operation information area 1612 for displaying operation information, and the display area on the LCD 16 is divided into these two areas. area. The number of characters to be displayed for the operation information in the operation information area 1612 is larger than that of the error name. Therefore, in some cases, it may not be possible to display all the operation information at once. In this embodiment, selecting the left arrow key or the right arrow key in the input key 15 while the detailed display screen image 161 is being displayed on the LCD 16 will scroll the operation information area 1612 in the direction specified by the selected arrow key. in the display. Thus, all operating information can be conveniently displayed even in a limited display area. In addition, since only the lower operation information area 1612 is scrolled, the user only needs to perform simpler and easier operations than those requiring separate scrolling of the upper area and the lower area, and can more easily recognize what is displayed on the LCD 16. expressed meaning.

Note that although numerical numbers are used as "reference characters" in this embodiment, reference characters are not limited to numerical numbers. Any symbol or character can be associated with the abbreviation as long as the reference character is information that the user can input through the input key 15 .

The screen display process performed in the image forming apparatus 1 is explained with reference to FIG. 5 . FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing this screen display process.

First, a standby screen image indicating that no error is caused is displayed on the LCD 16 (S2). Next, based on the signals output by the remaining toner sensor 23, the waste toner sensor 24, and the recording paper sensor 25 (for all the above-mentioned sensors, please refer to FIG. S4). Next, it is judged whether the detected errors include only a single error (S6).

When it is judged that the detected error includes only a single error (S6: YES), the error name and operation information of the caused error are read out from the error display memory 331 (S8). Then, the detailed display screen image 161 (see FIG. 4) is displayed (S10). More specifically, as described with reference to FIG. 4 , the detailed display screen image 161 is configured for display in response to reference characters input by the user. However, when the error caused includes only a single error, the detailed display screen image 161 is displayed regardless of whether the user has input a reference character or not. Therefore, even if the user does not perform a special operation, the user can get the necessary information. Then, based on the signals output from the remaining toner sensor 23, the waste toner sensor 24, and the recording paper sensor 25, it is judged whether or not the error has been resolved (S12).

When it is not judged that the error is resolved (S12: NO), it is judged whether a new error has occurred based on the signals output from the remaining toner sensor 23, the waste toner sensor 24, and the recording paper sensor 25 (S14). When it is judged that a new error has been caused (S14: YES), the current procedure goes to step S17 described below.

However, when it is judged that a new error has been caused (S14: NO), it is judged whether or not the detected new error includes only a single error (S16). When the detected new error includes only a single error (S16: YES), the current process goes to S10, and the detailed display screen image 161 remains displayed. Thus, while repeating steps S10 to S16, if the error is cleared (S12: YES), the current procedure goes back to S4.

Next, the case when it is judged that an error is caused (S4: Yes) and that the error includes two or more errors (S6: No) will be described. In this case (S6: NO), the abbreviation and error name of each error caused are read out from the error display memory 331 (S17). An abbreviation display screen image 160 (see FIG. 4 ) including the read abbreviations and error names is then displayed on the LCD 16 (S18). Next, it is judged whether or not the error has been cleared (S20).

When it is not judged that the error is resolved (S20: NO), it is judged whether a new error has been caused based on signals output from the remaining toner sensor 23, the waste toner sensor 24, and the recording paper sensor 25 (S24). When judging that a new error has been caused (S24: yes), the current process returns to S17, wherein the abbreviation and the error name of the new error are read out from the error display memory 331, the abbreviation display screen image 160 is displayed on the LCD 16, and Add the read abbreviation and error name over it.

However, when it is judged that no new error has been caused (S24: NO), it is judged whether the user has input a reference character (S26). When it is judged that the user has not input the reference character (S26: No), it is judged whether the left direction key or the right direction key of the input keys 15 is selected (S30).

When it is judged that the left arrow key or the right arrow key of the input key 15 is selected (S30: Yes), the display on the abbreviated display screen image 160 is scrolled in the lower display information area 1602 along the direction designated by the selected arrow key. . Then, the current process returns to S17.

However, when it is not judged that the left direction key or the right direction key of the input key 15 is selected (S30: NO), step S32 is skipped, the abbreviation display screen image 160 is kept displayed, and the current process returns to S17.

If while repeating above-mentioned steps S17 to S26, S30 and S32, the user has input reference characters (S26: yes), then read out the corresponding error name and operation information (S28) of the input reference characters from the error display memory 331 . After that, the current display content is erased, and the detailed display screen image 161 of the read error name and operation information is displayed on the LCD 16 (S29). Then, the current process goes to S12.

In this case, if the error is not resolved (S12: No), and does not cause any new error (S14: No), the detected error includes two or more errors (S16: No). Therefore, next, it is judged whether or not the clear key among the input keys 15 is selected (S34). When it is judged that the clear key is selected (S34: YES), the process goes to S17 where the abbreviation display screen image 160 is displayed (S18).

However, when it is not judged that the clear key is selected (S34: NO), it is judged whether the user inputs a reference character (S36). When the user inputs the reference character (S36: YES), the error name and operation information corresponding to the input reference character are read out from the error display memory 331 (S28). After that, the current display is erased, and the detailed display screen image 161 with the read-out error name and operation information is displayed on the LCD 16 (S29). Then, the current process goes to S12.

Meanwhile, when the clear key is not selected (S34: No), and the user does not input any reference character (S36: No), it is judged whether the left direction key or the right direction key of the input key 15 is selected (S38).

When the left arrow key or the right arrow key is selected (S38: Yes), scroll the details on the detailed display screen image 161 in the lower operation information area 1612 (see FIG. 4B ) along the direction specified by the selected arrow key. show. Then, the current process goes to S12.

According to this screen display process, since the abbreviation displayed on the abbreviation display screen image 160 is displayed when two or more errors are caused, the user can intuitively recognize that two or more errors are caused. At the same time, users can also intuitively recognize wrong names as abbreviated original information. Therefore, the user can quickly grasp a large amount of information even in a limited display area.

Also, in response to the reference character input by the user, an abbreviation corresponding to the input reference character is displayed on the detailed display screen image 161 . Therefore, the user can quickly and easily grasp the type of error caused, and operation information on the required operation for resolving the caused error.

Also, in response to the user pressing the clear key while the detailed display screen image 161 is being displayed, the abbreviated display screen image 160 is displayed. Therefore, the user can quickly confirm all the errors currently caused by two or more.

Next, a second embodiment according to these aspects of the present invention is described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7 . In the first embodiment described above, the image forming apparatus 1 is configured to display the abbreviated display screen image 160 when two or more errors are detected. In contrast, in the second embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 is configured to display either an abbreviated display screen image 160 or a simplified display screen image 162 mentioned below.

Note that the explanation given below is made on the premise that the exterior and electrical structure of the image forming apparatus 1 in the second embodiment are the same as those of the image forming apparatus 1 in the first embodiment. Hereinafter, the same reference characters are assigned to the same parts as those in the first embodiment, and explanations for the same parts are omitted. Points different from the first embodiment will be described below.

FIG. 6A is an example of a simplified display screen image 162 displayed on the LCD 16 of the image forming apparatus 1 in the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6A, the simplified display screen image 162 is configured to have an upper error number display area 1621 for displaying the number of currently causing errors (an example of the number of satisfied conditions), and for displaying the number corresponding to the currently causing errors. Lower name display area 1622 for abbreviations and error names. That is, when two or more errors are detected, the number of errors caused and their error names are displayed.

Moreover, in this embodiment, when the simplified display screen image 162 is displayed on the LCD 16, the left direction key or the right direction key of the input key 15 is selected, and the display of the name display area 1622 is only along the direction specified by the selected direction key. direction to scroll. Thus, first of all, the user can intuitively recognize the upper region and grasp the total number of errors currently being caused. Also, the user can intuitively identify the necessary error names by scrolling the lower area as needed. Therefore, even if a large number of errors are generated, the user can promptly confirm the currently caused error.

FIG. 6B schematically illustrates a switchable screen image displayed as a simplified display screen image 162 on the LCD 16. First, the simplified display screen image 162 described with reference to FIG. 6A is displayed.

As shown in FIG. 6B, in the name display area 1622 located at the lower portion of the simplified display screen image 162, each abbreviation is displayed in association with a reference character. Then, in the same manner as described with reference to FIG. 4B , in response to the reference number input by the user, detailed information on the abbreviation corresponding to the input reference character is displayed on the detailed display screen image 161 . Note that in FIG. 6B , only the detailed display screen image 161 displayed in the case where the reference character "1" is input is shown by way of example. However, when other reference characters are input, a detailed display screen image 161 of an abbreviation corresponding to the input reference character will be displayed. Also, when other reference characters are input while any one of the detailed display screen images 161 is being displayed, the current display becomes the abbreviated detailed display screen image 161 corresponding to the input reference character.

Therefore, by inputting desired reference characters with reference to the simplified display screen image 162, desired information can be quickly and easily displayed in the display area.

In addition, in response to pressing the clear key among the enter keys 15 while the detailed display screen image 161 is being displayed, the current display on the LCD 16 is switched from the detailed display screen image 161 to the simplified display screen image 162. Thus, when the user wishes to confirm all currently caused errors, or to know the reference character for displaying the desired detailed display screen image 161, he can quickly and easily return to the simplified display screen image 162.

Note that when switching between the detailed display screen image 161 and the simplified display screen image 162 is performed to overcome some of the current consequential errors, and it becomes possible to display the abbreviated display screen image 160, then the current display on the LCD 16 is changed from The simplified display screen image 162 switches to the abbreviated display screen image 160 (see FIG. 4 ). Details about the switching operation are described with reference to FIG. 7 .

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a screen display process performed by the image forming apparatus 1 of the second embodiment. In the same steps as the screen display process (see FIG. 5 ) of the image forming apparatus 1 of the first embodiment, the same reference characters are given, and explanations about the same steps are omitted or simplified.

As shown in FIG. 7, in the screen display process performed by the image forming apparatus 1 of the second embodiment, when an error is caused (S4: Yes) and the caused error includes two or more errors (S6: No ), first, the abbreviation and error name of each caused error are read out from the error display memory 331 (S17). Then, it is judged whether to display the aforementioned simplified display screen image 162 (see FIG. 6 ) according to the number of characters constituting the abbreviation 3312 causing the current error. Specifically, the number of characters to be displayed in the abbreviation area 1601 is determined by adding the number of reference characters to be added to each abbreviation to the total number of characters constituting the abbreviation currently causing the error (S17a).

Next, it is judged whether or not the number of characters determined in S17a is equal to or greater than the maximum number of characters that can be displayed in the abbreviation area 1601 (S17b). When the judgment in S17b is affirmative (S17b: Yes), a simplified display screen image 162 (see FIG. 6 ) is displayed on the LCD 16 (S19). However, when the judgment in S17b is negative, that is, when it is judged that the simplified display screen image 162 will not be displayed (S17b: No), the LCD 16 displays the abbreviation and error code with the abbreviations read out in S17. The abbreviation of the name is displayed on the screen image 160 (S18).

Note that the number of characters displayed in the abbreviation area 1601 correlates with the number of detected errors. In other words, the more errors detected, the more the number of displayable characters in the abbreviation area 1601 may need to be increased. Therefore, instead of the judgment in S17b, for example, it may be judged whether or not the number of detected errors is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. In this case, if the judgment result is positive, the simplified display screen image 162 is displayed in S19, and if the judgment result is negative, the abbreviated display screen image 160 is displayed in S18.

Next, it is judged whether any error is resolved (S20). When it is judged that any error is resolved (S20: YES), the current process returns to S4. Then, when an error currently caused is detected (S6: YES), the detailed display screen image 161 is displayed (S10). However, when two or more errors are detected (S6: No), and the judgment in S17b is negative (S17b: No) and the errors are canceled (that is, the number of currently caused errors is reduced), then even up to now So far the abbreviated display screen image 160 has been displayed, the current display will still change to the simplified display screen image 162 .

Meanwhile, when none of the errors is resolved (S20: NO), it is judged whether a new error has been caused based on the signals output by the remaining toner sensor 23, the waste toner sensor 24, and the recording paper sensor 25 (S24). When it is judged that a new error has been caused (S24: YES), the current procedure returns to S17. When the judgment in S17 is affirmative (S17: Yes) and a new error is caused (that is, the number of errors currently caused increases), then even if the abbreviated display screen image 160 is currently displayed on the LCD 16, the current display remains will change to a simplified display screen image 162 .

However, when any new error is not caused (S24: NO), it is judged whether the user has input a reference character (S26). When the user does not input any reference character (S26: No), it is judged whether the left direction key or the right direction key of the input key 15 is selected (S30).

When it is judged that the left direction key or the right direction key of the input key 15 is selected (S30: Yes), then scroll the lower display information of the abbreviated display screen image 160 or the simplified display screen image 162 along the direction specified by the selected direction key. display in the area (S32), and the current process returns to S17.

When the user inputs a reference character while repeatedly performing the above steps in this manner (S26: YES), the error name and operation information corresponding to the input reference character are read out from the error display memory 331 (S28). After that, the screen image displayed so far is erased, and the detailed display screen image 161 with the read error name and operation information is displayed on the LCD 16 (S29). Then, the current process returns to S12.

When error is not removed (S12: No), and the judgment in S14 and S16 is all negative (S14: No, and S16: No), then judge whether the clear key in the input key 15 is selected (S34) . When the clear key is selected (S34: Yes), the current process goes to S17, and the abbreviated display screen image 160 or the simplified display screen image 162 is displayed (S18 or S19)

According to the image forming apparatus 1 of the second embodiment, when two or more errors are detected, the number of errors caused and the error names of the errors caused are displayed together in a simplified display screen image on the LCD 16. Therefore, the user can quickly grasp a large amount of information even in such a limited display area. For example, even when a large number of errors are caused at the same time, and only the error names of a part of the errors caused can be displayed, the user who has recognized the number of errors caused can understand the appropriate operation for resolving these errors, or The number of errors caused to infer errors that are not displayed on the LCD 16.

Also, when multiple errors are detected, whether to display the simplified display screen image 162 is judged in S19 according to the number of characters constituting multiple abbreviations corresponding to the multiple errors. Then, when it is not judged in S19 that the simplified display screen image 162 should be displayed, the abbreviated display screen image 160 is displayed on the LCD 16. Accordingly, a display of the number of characters suitable for abbreviation is shown. For example, when the number of errors caused is small and it is judged negatively in S17 (S17: NO), the abbreviated display screen image 160 is displayed instead of the simplified display screen image 162 . Therefore, a large number of wrong abbreviations can be displayed. As a result, users can grasp more information.

Embodiments according to various aspects of the invention are described above. The present invention can be practiced by employing conventional materials, methods and equipment. Accordingly, the details of such materials, equipment and methods are not set forth here. In the previous descriptions, numerous specific details are given, such as specific materials, structures, chemicals, processes, etc., in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it should be recognized that the invention may be practiced without rearranging the details specifically set forth herein. In other instances, well known processing structures have not been described in detail in order not to unnecessarily obscure the present invention.

Only a few examples of example embodiments of the invention and variations thereof have been shown and described in this disclosure. It is to be understood that the present invention is capable of use in various other combinations and environments and is capable of changes or modifications within the scope of the inventive concepts expressed herein.

Also, in the above-described embodiments, the image forming apparatus 1 having the function of forming an image has been described as an example of the display apparatus according to the aspects of the present invention. However, the present invention can be applied not only to such an image forming apparatus but also to an apparatus configured to have a display area for displaying information.

Also, in the above-described embodiments, display scrolling is implemented based on the user's operation. However, in any one of S10 in the screen display process, S29 in which the detailed display screen image 161 is displayed, S18 in which the simplified display screen image 160 is displayed, and S19 in which the simplified display screen image 162 is displayed, it may be possible without any user operation. Bottom only automatically scrolls the display in the lower area.

Also, in the above embodiment, the display in the information display area 1602 at the lower side of the abbreviation display screen image 160 is scrolled. However, pieces of display information to be displayed in information display area 1602 may be alternately displayed at intervals of a predetermined time period. In the same way, the error names to be displayed in the name display area 1622 of the simplified display screen image 162 may be alternately displayed at intervals of a predetermined time period.

Also, the abbreviation display screen image 160 in the above-described embodiment is configured to display abbreviations and error names. However, the abbreviated display screen image 160 may be configured to display the number of errors currently being raised in addition to displaying the abbreviated and error names.

Fig. 8 schematically illustrates an abbreviated display screen image 160 in a modification according to these aspects of the invention. As shown in FIG. 8 , the number 1603 of errors currently caused may be displayed in an abbreviation area 1601 . Thus, the user can quickly understand the number of errors currently being caused.

Also, in the abbreviation display screen image 160 (see FIG. 4A ) of these embodiments, each abbreviation is displayed in an abbreviation area 1601 with its reference character attached. However, as shown in FIG. 8, each abbreviation may be displayed without any reference characters in the abbreviation area 1601 of this modification. In this case, reference characters may only be attached to each abbreviation and error name displayed in the information display area 1602 . Thus, since more characters can be displayed in the abbreviation area 1601, a large number of abbreviations can be displayed side by side.

Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, abbreviations and error names are displayed in the information display area 1602 located on the lower side of the abbreviation display screen image 160 . However, only the name of the error may be displayed in the information display area 1602 without displaying the abbreviation.

Also, in the above-described second embodiment, the simplified display screen image 162 is configured to display the number and abbreviation of errors currently caused. Instead, for example, the simplified display screen image 162 may also be configured to display the total number of currently occurring errors and the name of the error.

Claims (9)

1. A display device, comprising: a display area configured to display information therein; an information storage unit configured to store therein a plurality of pieces of predetermined information displayable in the display area; an abbreviation storage unit configured to store therein an abbreviation corresponding to each predetermined information stored in the information storage unit; an information detection unit configured to detect first information to be displayed in the display area from predetermined information, wherein the first information includes one or more error names, the one or more error names being indicated in one or more errors caused in said display device; a judging unit configured to judge whether the first information detected by the information detecting unit includes a plurality of pieces of information; and A first control unit configured to obtain each piece of information included in the first information from the information storage unit and the abbreviation storage unit respectively when the judging unit judges that the first information includes multiple pieces of information and the abbreviation of each piece of information, and display each piece of information and the abbreviation of each piece of information in the display area. 2. A display device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said first control unit displays each abbreviation and its associated reference character in said display area, and Wherein said display device further comprises: an input unit configured to accept input therethrough; and a second control unit configured to clear the first information and abbreviations displayed by the first control unit in response to an input of selection of a reference character accepted through the input unit to remove from the information storage unit obtaining second information related to an abbreviation associated with a reference character, and displaying said second information in said display area, Wherein the second information related to the abbreviation associated with the reference character selected through the input unit includes error information indicating an error caused and operation information indicating an operation for resolving the error. 3. The display device of claim 2, further comprising: A third control unit configured to, in response to the second reference character selected through the input unit when displaying the second information acquired by the second control unit, clear the to acquire different second information related to the abbreviation associated with the second reference character from the information storage unit, and display the different second information in the display area. 4. The display device according to claim 2 , further comprising a display switching unit configured to clear the second information in response to a predetermined input accepted through the input unit when displaying the second information , and display each first information and an abbreviation of each first information in the display area. 5. A display device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the display area is divided into a first area and a second area, wherein said first control unit displays each first information in said first area, and Wherein the first control unit displays an abbreviation corresponding to each piece of first information in the second area. 6. A display device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the predetermined information stored in the information storage unit includes error information on possible errors, and Wherein the information detection unit detects currently caused errors as objects related to which information is to be displayed in the display area. 7. A display device comprising: a display area configured to display information therein; an information storage unit configured to store therein a plurality of predetermined pieces of information displayable in the display area; an information detection unit configured to detect display information to be displayed in the display area from the predetermined information, wherein the display information includes one or more error names, the one or more error names being indicated in one or more errors caused in said display device; a first judging unit configured to judge whether the display information detected by the information detecting unit includes a plurality of pieces of information; and A first controller configured to acquire each piece of information included in the display information from the information storage unit when the first judging unit judges that the display information includes a plurality of pieces of information, and in the Each piece of information and the digital number of the information are displayed in the display area. 8. A display device as claimed in claim 7, Wherein the first controller only displays the display information unless it is judged by the judging unit that the display information includes multiple pieces of information. 9. The display device according to claim 7 or 8, further comprising: an abbreviation storage unit configured to store therein an abbreviation corresponding to each piece of predetermined information stored in the information storage unit; The second controller is configured to, when the first judging unit judges that the display information includes a plurality of pieces of information, obtain each of the displayed information from the information storage unit and the abbreviation storage unit respectively. each piece of information and the abbreviation of each piece of information, and display each piece of information and the abbreviation of each piece of information in the display area; A second judging unit configured to judge whether the total number of characters constituting each abbreviation of the display information is greater than a predetermined value; and a selection unit configured to select the second controller instead of the first controller when the second judgment unit judges that the total number of characters constituting each abbreviation of the display information is greater than the predetermined value; The controller is used as a controller to perform the operation of displaying the display information.

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