JP2011051163A - Image forming apparatus and image transmitting method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming apparatus that creates an operation screen flow representing a series of operation procedures until job execution to support the operation of the apparatus, and to provide a screen flow creating method and a program. <P>SOLUTION: The image forming apparatus includes a screen flow creating information acquiring means for acquiring screen flow creating information including screen information, set operation information indicating a set state by a key operation on a display screen, and screen order information indicating the screen transition order of the display screen; a screen flow creating means for creating a screen image representing the set state by the key operation on the display screen based on the image flow creating information, and creating a screen flow with screen images arranged in the screen transition order; a display screen customizing means for customizing the display screen; and a screen flow creating information correcting means for correcting the screen flow creating information acquired based on the changed screen information. The screen flow creating means creates the screen flow based on the corrected screen flow creating information. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to the field of image forming apparatuses and image transmission methods.

  An image forming apparatus in which the functions of each apparatus such as a fax machine, a printer, a copy machine, and a scanner are housed in a single casing has been known. In this image forming apparatus, a display unit, a printing unit, an imaging unit, and the like are provided in one housing, and four types of applications corresponding to a fax, a printer, a copy, and a scanner are provided, and the fax is switched by switching the applications. , Operate as a printer, copy and scanner.

  In recent years, the liquid crystal panel (touch panel) on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus has been increased in size, and the display content has been enhanced. For example, a user-friendly user interface is provided by displaying various display screens using icons or the like based on software control.

  On the other hand, with the increase in the number of functions of the image forming apparatus, the number of setting items on the operation screen is increasing, and the hierarchy of operation screens for setting is becoming deeper. Therefore, for beginners who are not familiar with the operation and users who are not good at machine operation, the setting operation cannot be performed well and the apparatus cannot be used.

  In such a case, the operation screen is generally operated while referring to a manual or a help screen. A predetermined operation procedure is shown in advance in the manual by an administrator or the like, and the operator can respond to routine operations such as daily work by operating according to the manual.

  There is an invention described in Patent Document 1 as a technique for assisting operation of an image forming apparatus. A series of operation flows performed by the user can be called to the image forming apparatus and re-executed. A series of operation flows performed on the image forming apparatus is recorded as history information in a memory or the like, and an operation flow to be executed by the image forming apparatus is called out of the recorded history information. Execute the operation flow. It is also possible to temporarily stop the execution of the operation flow, change the operation flow using the operation unit, and execute the changed operation flow.

  In the invention described in Patent Document 1, a series of operation flows can be recorded and the same operation can be reproduced. Therefore, for example, if a predetermined one operation is performed, a series of a plurality of operations can be automatically executed. . However, since the operation automatically proceeds according to the series of recorded operation flows, when it is desired to learn the setting operation by itself, it is difficult to learn the operation.

  In order to learn the setting operation, it is desirable to actually perform the setting operation by itself and perform specific button operations for operation screen transition and operation setting. Therefore, in such a case, a manual including a setting operation flow for confirming the operation screen and operation items may be used.

  In view of the above problems, the present invention provides an image forming apparatus, a screen flow creating method, and a program for creating an operation screen flow expressing a series of operation procedures up to job execution and supporting the operation of the apparatus. For the purpose.

  In order to solve the above problems, an image forming apparatus according to the present invention is an image forming apparatus that includes an operation panel and displays a display screen related to image formation on the operation panel based on screen information for generating a display screen. Screen flow creation that acquires screen flow creation information including the screen information, setting operation information indicating a setting state by a key operation on the display screen, and screen order information indicating a screen transition order of the display screen Information acquisition means, screen flow creation means for creating a screen image expressing a setting state by a key operation on a display screen based on the screen flow creation information, and creating a screen flow in which the screen images are arranged in screen transition order; A display screen customization means for customizing the display screen by changing the screen information, and the display screen customization means Screen flow creation information correction means for correcting the screen flow creation information acquired by the screen flow creation information acquisition means based on the screen information changed by the screen flow creation information. A screen flow is created based on the screen flow creation information modified by the information modification means.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, in the image forming apparatus, the display screen is customized by the display screen customization unit, and a shortcut key that is an operation component for transitioning to the display screen included in the screen order information is customized. When added to the display screen, the screen flow creation information correction means indicates the setting state by the shortcut key operation on the customized display screen as a correction for giving priority to the shortcut key operation on the screen flow. Modify the setting operation information, modify the screen order information so that the screen order of the transition destination display screen by the shortcut key operation is next to the customized display screen, and display the transition destination by the shortcut key operation Screen and customized display screen And deletes the display screen located on the screen sequence between from the screen sequence information.

  In order to solve the above problem, the image forming apparatus further includes a prohibition specifying unit that specifies a display screen that prohibits deletion from the screen order information, and the shortcut key is added to the customized display screen. When the display screen whose deletion is prohibited by the prohibition specifying unit is omitted by the shortcut key operation, the screen flow creation information correction unit stops the correction for giving priority to the shortcut key operation. .

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, in the image forming apparatus, when the display screen is customized by the display screen customization unit, and an operation component to be changed to a display screen included in the screen order information is deleted or hidden, A warning screen is displayed on the operation panel.

  In addition, what applied the arbitrary combination of the component of this invention, expression, or a component to a method, an apparatus, a system, a computer program, a recording medium, etc. is also effective as an aspect of this invention.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus, a screen flow creating method, and a program for creating an operation screen flow expressing a series of operation procedures up to job execution and supporting the operation of the apparatus.

1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an appearance (simplified view) of an operation panel 11 of the image forming apparatus 1. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing a main functional configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. FIG. 6 is a diagram (part 1) illustrating a relationship between an operation screen and a template. FIG. 10 is a diagram (part 2) illustrating a relationship between an operation screen and a template. It is a figure which shows the example of a definition of a specification file. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the definition content of a layout file. It is an example (the 1) which shows an operation screen and its setting operation information. It is an example (the 2) which shows an operation screen and its setting operation information. It is an example (the 1) which shows setting operation information. It is an example (the 2) which shows setting operation information. It is a flowchart explaining a screen flow creation operation. It is an example of the screen which sets a screen flow creation start. It is an example of the figure which shows the information of a screen transition order. It is a figure which shows an example of a job completion log | history screen. It is an example of the figure which shows a screen image. It is an example of the figure which shows the produced screen flow. It is an example of the figure which shows the screen flow produced regarding a certain setting operation. 2 is a functional block diagram showing a main functional configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. It is a figure which shows the screen information and setting operation information of the screen image 1801. FIG. It is a figure which shows the screen information and setting operation information of the screen image 1802. FIG. It is a figure which shows the screen information and setting operation information of the screen image 1803. FIG. It is a figure which shows the screen order information of the screen images 1801-1803. An example of a customized operation screen is shown. An example of customization screen information is shown. 5 is a flowchart for explaining screen flow creation information correction processing of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment. It is an example of the figure which shows the screen flow produced according to the aspect of the customized operation screen. An example of a customized operation screen is shown. An example of customization screen information is shown. It is an example of the figure which shows the screen flow produced according to the aspect of the customized operation screen. An example of screen flow creation information (setting operation information) modified when using a shortcut key is shown. It is an example of the figure which shows the screen flow creation information (screen order information) corrected when using a shortcut key. It is an example of the figure which shows the screen flow corrected when using a shortcut key. An example of a customized operation screen is shown.

  DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings in each embodiment. 1 illustrates an embodiment in which the present invention is applied to an image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus is a multi-function peripheral (MFP) in which a plurality of functions such as a printer, a copy, and a scanner are housed in a single casing. In addition to these basic functions, various functions are provided in the user environment with various functions as the digital image technology is advanced and the technology related to MFP is advanced.

[Embodiment 1]
(hardware)
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment includes an operation panel 11, a storage medium I / F 12, a controller 13, a data communication I / F 14, a scanner 15, a plotter 16, and an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 17. Are connected to each other.

  The operation panel 11 includes an input device 11a and a display device 11b. The input device 11a includes hard keys and the like, and is used to input each operation signal to the image forming apparatus 1. Further, the display device 11b is configured by a display or the like, and displays, for example, various types of information regarding the image forming operation. The data communication I / F 14 includes an interface device 14a, and is an interface that connects the image forming apparatus 1 to a data transmission path such as a network or a fax machine. The HDD 17 stores various data such as received document data and read image data handled by the image forming apparatus 1. Further, the HDD 17 manages these various data by a predetermined file system or DB (Data Base).

  Various data stored in the HDD 17 includes data input from the recording medium 12b. The recording medium 12b is set in the drive device 12a included in the storage medium I / F 12, and various data are stored in the HDD 17 from the recording medium 12b via the drive device 12a.

  The controller 13 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) 13a, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13b, and a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 13c. The ROM 13a is executed when the image forming apparatus 1 is activated. Program and various data are stored. The RAM 13b temporarily stores various programs and data read from the ROM 13a and the HDD 17. Further, the CPU 13c executes a program temporarily stored in the RAM 13b. For example, when the print data is received via the data communication I / F 14, the controller 13 reads a program (PDL parser) that can read PDL (Page Description Language) read from the ROM 13a onto the RAM 13b by the CPU 13c. Execute and interpret the print data to generate a bitmap image.

  The scanner 15 includes an image reading device 15a, and optically reads a document placed on a reading surface and generates image data. The plotter 16 has a printing device 16a and prints a bitmap image on a recording sheet by, for example, an electrophotographic process method.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the appearance (simplified view) of the operation panel 11 of the image forming apparatus 1. As described above, the image forming apparatus 1 has the operation panel 11 for a user to give an operation instruction for using the functions of the image forming apparatus 1. The operation panel 11 includes a display that can be shared with a display means that can be visually confirmed by confirming an operation result operated by the user and displaying the state of the device, and a hardware such as a physical button or dial. Consists of keys. The display may be capable of giving an operation instruction by touching a software key configured on a touch panel display using a tactile sensor, or may display an operation result by a hard key on the display.

  As described above, the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment realizes a plurality of functions such as a copy, a printer, a facsimile, and a scanner by the above hardware configuration.

(function)
FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment. The image forming apparatus 1 includes a screen management unit 301, a screen flow creation information acquisition unit 302, a screen flow creation unit 303, screen information 304, and screen flow creation information 305. Details will be described later, and will be briefly described here.

  The screen management unit 301 has a function of managing and controlling all functions related to the display screen in the image forming apparatus 1. For example, a display screen to be displayed on the image forming apparatus 1 is generated based on the screen information 304 and displayed on the operation panel 11. Also, which display screen (operation screen) is to be displayed according to the user's operation, which display screen is to be generated and responded, and the setting operation contents set on the display screen are assigned to each function unit of image formation In conjunction with this, transmission (reflection) of the setting operation content to each function unit, processing results from each function unit, and the like are displayed to the user.

  The screen flow creation information acquisition unit 302 has a function of acquiring (collecting) information necessary for screen flow creation (screen flow creation information 305). Although details will be described later, screen flow creation information including screen information 304 for generating a display screen, setting operation information indicating a setting state by a key operation on the display screen, screen order information indicating a screen transition order of the display screen, and the like 305 is acquired.

  The screen flow creation unit 303 has a function of creating a screen image expressing a setting state by a key operation on the display screen based on the screen flow creation information 305 and creating a screen flow in which the screen images are arranged in the screen transition order. ing.

  These functions are actually realized by the computer (image forming apparatus 1) by a program executed by the CPU 13c. The functional units are not necessarily built in the image forming apparatus 1, and the functions can be provided in an external device connected on a network. For example, the screen information 304 can be constructed in an external storage device as common display screen information shared by a plurality of image forming apparatuses 1.

(Screen management)
The screen management unit 301 manages screen information (operation screen information) 304 and setting operation information that are the basis of the screen configuration. Before describing the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present invention, the screen information 304 and the setting operation information will be schematically described.

  First, the screen information 304 will be described. Screen information (operation screen information) that is the basis of the screen configuration is data for generating a display screen and is displayed on the display. Therefore, the display screen is generated and displayed based on the screen information. This is information that the image forming apparatus 1 has statically in advance from the time of factory shipment, for example.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram (part 1) illustrating the relationship between the operation screen and the template. The display image of the operation screen in a touchscreen display is shown. In the figure, an example in which a plurality of templates are arranged on one operation screen is shown. As shown in the drawing, a plurality of templates can be arranged on one operation screen, and each template forms one partitioned display area. It is also possible to arrange a template in the template.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram (part 2) illustrating the relationship between the operation screen and the template. As shown in the figure, the template includes component information (component file), specification information (specification file), and layout information (layout file). That is, each template is composed of a plurality of component files, one specification file, and one layout file.

  The component file is a file that stores data for realizing various display components (buttons, images, etc.) arranged on the template, and is filed for each display component. Each display component is configured in various data formats such as image data, moving image data, text data, and data representing a GUI component according to each characteristic. The part file is not used only by the template, but other templates are also shared and used as a common part.

  The specification file is a file in which information (component configuration information) indicating the configuration (list) of display components arranged in the template is defined (defines display components used from a plurality of component files). FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a definition example of a specification file. In FIG. 6, an example in which the component configuration information is described in XML is shown, but the definition format of the component configuration information is not limited to XML. In the drawing, each child element of the root element corresponds to one display component arranged in the template. The tag name of each element indicates the type of display component to which the element corresponds. For example, “img” indicates image data (image data). “Btn” indicates a button. “Msg” indicates a message. Each element has an id attribute and a name attribute defined therein. The id attribute is an ID for uniquely identifying the display component. The name attribute is the file name of the component file of the display component.

  For example, the element 601 has an ID “1a”, copy. A display component related to image data stored in a component file called jpg is defined. The element 602 has an ID “3b”, ok. A button stored in a part file xxx is defined. As described above, in the specification file, IDs, file names, and the like are defined for all components arranged in one template.

  The layout file is a file in which information (component arrangement information) indicating the arrangement position of each display component in the template is defined. FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram showing the definition contents of the layout file. FIG. 7 conceptually shows the contents of the component arrangement information, not the specific definition format of the component arrangement information. In the figure, a rectangle T indicates a display area of one template. The symbol in each circle arranged in the template T indicates the ID of each display component defined in the specification file. The position of the circle indicates the arrangement position of the display component in the template T. That is, in the layout file, the arrangement position is defined for each display component defined in the specification file. A specific definition format may be, for example, an XML format. In this case, an element may be assigned to each display component, and a coordinate value indicating an arrangement position may be designated as the attribute. As described above, the screen information 304 is data that should be referred to as information for generating a display screen, and all the screens displayed on the display are generated and displayed based on the screen information.

  Next, setting operation information will be described. The setting operation information indicates setting operation information on the operation screen such as a key operation state of a series of jobs when any setting operation is performed on the operation screen generated and displayed based on the screen information 304. The setting operation information is included in the screen flow creation information 305 and is used when creating the screen flow. This will be specifically described.

  FIG. 8 shows an example (part 1) of the operation screen and its setting operation information. An operation screen 801 shows an example of a screen for performing a setting operation for a read original surface. Moreover, the setting operation information which this operation screen 801 has is shown notionally. Corresponding to the operation screen 801, the area is divided into a message area, a set button area, and a button area. The setting operation buttons in each area and the setting operations of the setting operation buttons Values are shown. In this example, each setting operation button can take a value of ON or OFF.

  FIG. 9 is an example (part 2) of the operation screen and setting operation information thereof. Similarly, an operation screen 901 shows an example of a screen for performing a setting operation for a read original surface. Moreover, the setting operation information which this operation screen 901 has is shown notionally. In the Button area, when the “Double-sided” button is operated and the “Left and right open” and “Up and down open” buttons are expanded, the setting operation buttons in each area and the setting operation buttons are related. The set operation values are shown. In this example, each setting operation button can take a value of ON or OFF.

  FIG. 10 is an example (part 1) of the setting operation information. Specifically, the setting operation information (setting operation value) when the “single side” button whose input key identifier is “single side (ID: key101)” is operated in the operation screen 801 and the setting operation value of FIG. Indicates. Since the “single-sided” button is operated and the setting value is ON, each setting value of the “double-sided” button, which is contrary to this, is OFF. The screen identifier “Window1 (ID: w001)” is an identifier that uniquely identifies the operation screen 801.

  FIG. 11 is an example (part 2) of the setting operation information. Similarly, in the operation screen 901 and the setting operation value in FIG. 9, setting operation information (setting operation value) when the “double-sided” button whose input key identifier is “single-sided (ID: key101)” is operated is shown. . Since the “double-sided” button is operated and the setting values of “double-sided” and “upper and lower open” are ON, the respective setting values of the “single-sided” button, which are contrary to this, are OFF. The screen identifier “Window1 (ID: w001)” is an identifier that uniquely identifies the operation screen 901. However, since the operation screen 801 and the operation screen 901 are the same screen identifier, the operation screen is the same screen. Recognized. However, since the setting operation information is generated for each input key identifier, a plurality of setting operation information can be generated according to the setting operation even on the same operation screen. That is, it is dynamically generated for each input key identifier in accordance with the setting operation on the operation screen.

(Operation)
Next, the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present invention will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining the screen flow creation operation. The following description will be made along the flowchart with appropriate reference to the drawings at each step.

  In step S1201, first, the user makes a screen flow creation start request. When creating a screen flow, the screen flow creation information 305 is acquired (collected), and the acquisition is triggered by a screen flow creation start request by the user. This is to prevent the screen flow creation information 305 from being acquired and the storage capacity (for example, the HDD 17) from increasing even when screen flow creation is not required.

  FIG. 13 is an example of a screen for setting screen flow creation start. The operation screen 1301 shows an example of a top screen, for example. When transitioning to the operation screen 1302 by pressing the “screen flow setting” button, the screen flow can be set. A flow creation start request is made by pressing the button for making the screen flow function “valid”. Since other setting items of the operation screen 1302 will be described later, the description will proceed here.

  In step S1202, the screen management unit 301 and the screen flow creation information acquisition unit 302 receive a flow creation start request and start preparation for screen flow creation (screen flow creation mode).

  In step S1203, the user operates the operation screen to start a desired job operation. For example, “left and right open” is set for the original surface, “sort” for the paper is set, and the copy job is executed.

  In step S <b> 1204, the screen flow creation information acquisition unit 302 acquires (collects) screen flow creation information 305, which is information necessary for screen flow creation, according to user operations up to the execution of the copy job. As described above, the screen flow creation information 305 includes screen information 304 for generating a display screen, setting operation information indicating a setting state by a key operation on the display screen, screen order information indicating a screen transition order of the display screen, and the like. including. Here, the screen flow creation information acquisition unit 302 stores the acquired screen flow creation information 305 in a storage unit or the like (FIG. 3).

  Reference is again made to FIG. In the operation up to the execution of the copy job, for example, when the setting operation of the read document surface (“double-sided”, “up-and-down open”) is performed on the operation screen 901, the screen flow creation information acquisition unit 302 should acquire As the screen flow creation information 305, the screen information 304 of the setting operation screen for the read original surface is acquired. Also, setting operation information (“double-sided ON”, “upper and downward opening ON”, etc.) as shown in FIG. 11 is acquired. That is, the screen information necessary for generating the setting operation screen for the read original surface (template including the above-described component file, specification file, and layout file), and the setting state by key operation on the setting operation screen for the read original surface are displayed. The setting operation information shown is acquired.

  Furthermore, the information including the screen transition order information is acquired. FIG. 14 is an example of a diagram illustrating screen transition order information. The (flow) screen creation order based on the screen transition order is shown for each input key identifier corresponding to the setting operation information. Since the input key identifier corresponds to the input key identifier shown in FIG. 11, the setting screen and the setting operation information on the setting screen can be reproduced in the order of screen transition. The acquisition timing of the screen flow creation information 305 to be acquired is a setting operation, specifically, when an operation key is operated. This is because the screen flow creation information 305 is acquired in units of operation keys. When “Cancel” is operated, the screen flow creation information 305 corresponding to the cancellation is deleted (acquired and discarded).

  In step S1205, the desired job operation is terminated. Actually, it is when the user presses the “start” button or the like for executing copying by operating the operation screen, or when the copy job is normally completed thereafter. The screen flow creation information acquisition unit 302 stops acquiring the screen flow creation information 305 at this timing.

  In step S1206, a screen flow creation request is made by the user. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a job completion history screen. As shown in the figure, the above-mentioned copy job has already been completed from the history. Here, a screen flow creation request is made by selecting a job for screen flow creation from the job completion history and pressing the “screen flow output” button. Note that screen flow creation cannot be performed for all completed jobs. Since the screen flow creation information 305 is not created for a job for which the screen flow creation start request (S1201) has not been made, screen flow creation cannot be performed. That is, it can be created only for a job for which a screen flow creation start request (S1201) has been made. Whether the screen flow can be created is indicated by “◯” or “X” on the job completion history screen as an example as shown in the figure.

  In step S <b> 1207, the screen flow creation unit 303 creates a screen image representing a setting state by key operation on the display screen based on the acquired screen flow creation information 305, and screen flow in which the screen images are arranged in screen transition order. Create FIG. 16 is an example of a diagram illustrating a screen image. The screen image shown in the figure is created from the screen information 304 of the setting operation screen for the read original surface and the setting operation information indicating the setting state by the key operation. That is, the same screen as the above-described setting operation screen for the read original surface reflecting “double-sided” and “upper and lower” of the setting operation information is created. In this way, the screen flow creation unit 303 creates screen images sequentially with reference to the screen transition order information (FIG. 14).

  In step S1208, the created screen flow is output. FIG. 17 is an example of a diagram showing the created screen flow. The transition (flow) of the operation screen and the setting operation (contents) until the user completes the copy job by operating the operation screen can be understood.

  Note that it is possible to set how the created screen flow creation is output. For example, in the case of “printing”, the screen flow is printed using the printing function of the image forming apparatus 1 and can be used for an operation while referring to it as a manual later. If it is “E-mail”, a screen flow (electronic file) is attached to the mail using the mail transmission function of the image forming apparatus 1 and can be distributed to the user terminal or the like. If “screen display” is selected, the screen flow can be displayed / referenced at any time on the operation panel 11 of the image forming apparatus 1.

  As described above, the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment records a series of operation contents together with the screen information, and creates a transition diagram of the screen image so that the operation contents can be visually understood. Since it is easy to create a screen flow that shows the details of the setting operation on the actual display screen, even if you are a beginner who is not familiar with the operation or a user who is not good at machine operation, you can use the screen flow as a manual. At least, standard setting operations can be performed according to the manual.

[Embodiment 2]
In the present embodiment, an image forming apparatus capable of creating an operation screen flow corresponding to customization even when the operation screen (setting screen) is customized will be described. In addition, about the point which overlaps with the content demonstrated in Embodiment 1, description in this embodiment may be abbreviate | omitted. For example, the hardware (FIGS. 1 and 2) may be the same, and a description thereof will be omitted.

(Screen customization)
Regarding the operation screen of the image forming apparatus 1, there is known a technique for performing customization such as display / non-display switching or rearrangement of elements (buttons, etc.) constituting the screen according to the user's preference (for example, see Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open (JP-A)). 2009-054027, JP 2007-249863).

  Since the image forming apparatus 1 responds to diversification of usage methods, as the number of functions increases, the number of operation modes set from the operation panel increases, and the setting operation for obtaining a desired output is complicated. The current situation is that it tends to become. However, some users do not necessarily use all the functions, and many use only a specific part of the functions. Therefore, it is possible to improve the operability by displaying on the operation panel in an easy-to-understand manner only the operation mode input means related to the partial functions. Also, the user-friendly UI (User Interface) varies depending on the user's proficiency in using the device. For a user with low usage frequency, a complicated UI is likely to cause an operation error and is not time efficient. In this case, a simple UI with limited functions is welcomed. On the other hand, a user with high usage frequency can use even a slightly complicated operation, and a UI capable of setting all functions is required when using many functions.

  By looking back at the image forming apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment again, it is possible to easily create a screen flow on the actual display screen so that the details of the setting operation can be easily understood. Therefore, the screen flow can be used as a manual. For example, even a beginner who is not familiar with the operation or a user who is not good at machine operation can perform at least standard setting operations according to the manual. The administrator preferably performs a variety of setting operations in the image forming apparatus 1 in advance, creates a screen flow, outputs the screen flow, and completes a manual. Beginners who are not accustomed to and users who are not good at machine operation can actually perform various setting operations (including advanced operation settings) by using the manual, so they learn the setting operations themselves and learn how to operate the device. be able to.

  However, after the administrator completes a complete manual, if the operation screen is customized, the configuration of the manual operation screen (for example, the position size of the button or the presence or absence thereof) and the user actually operates the operation screen. The configuration of the operation screen at the time will be different. Accordingly, when the operation screen is customized, the administrator performs various setting operations in the image forming apparatus 1 again, creates a screen flow, outputs it, and outputs a manual. Needs to be output again.

  Therefore, in the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment, even when the operation screen (setting screen) is customized, the screen flow creation information once created to correspond to the customization screen is modified to be customized. Enabled operation screen flow creation. A description will be given below.

(Example of screen customization)
FIG. 18 is an example of a diagram illustrating a screen flow created for a certain setting operation. A screen flow 1800 is a simple screen flow including screen transitions of three screen images 1801 to 1803 for convenience of explanation. The user can output the screen flow as described above (for example, “print” or “screen display”) and use this as a manual.

Here, when screen customization is performed, the configuration of the manual operation screen differs from the configuration of the operation screen when the user actually operates. Specific examples include the following cases.
(1) When the shape, size, and position of the button are customized on the setting operation screen, the button may be customized to a large button so that the button is easy to operate, or may be customized to a position that is easy to operate. In such a case, for beginners who are not familiar with the operation, there is a gap between the manual and the appearance of the operation screen that is actually operated, which may cause confusion in operation.
(2) When a new button is added Due to a new function or option addition, a button that did not exist until then may be added on the setting operation screen. For beginners who are unfamiliar with the operation, there is a gap between the manual and the appearance of the operation screen that is actually operated, which may cause confusion in operation. In addition, when the newly added button is a shortcut button added for the purpose of operation with fewer procedures, from the viewpoint of operation, it is easier to operate the shortcut button provided by screen customization. This is recommended as a flow.
(3) When a button is deleted (or not displayed) A button that has existed until then may be deleted due to administrative reasons or screen customization errors. Depending on the user's authority, etc., the button may be hidden. In addition, the button may be deleted as a result of the button being moved to another screen. This is a screen customization in which a button is moved from the initial screen to another screen when it is determined that the button should be arranged on another screen for the convenience of the user. In such a case, the operation may be confused, and the operation target button is eliminated, so that the intended setting operation cannot be performed in the first place.

  As described above, even if the operation screen (setting screen) is customized as in (1) to (3), the screen flow creation information once created to correspond to the customization screen is modified to support customization. Enable operation screen flow creation. This will be specifically described below.

(function)
FIG. 19 is a functional block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 according to this embodiment. The image forming apparatus 1 includes a screen management unit 301, a screen flow creation information acquisition unit 302, a screen flow creation unit 303, screen information 304, and screen flow creation information 305, and further includes a screen flow creation information modification unit 306 and customized screen information 307. It is the structure containing. The image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment is configured by adding a screen flow creation information correction unit 306 and customized screen information 307, compared to the above-described first embodiment (FIG. 3).

  The screen flow creation information correction unit 306 has a function of correcting the screen flow creation information 305 acquired by the screen flow creation information acquisition unit 302 based on the customization screen information 307 changed by customizing the operation screen. . Then, if the screen flow creation information is modified according to the customized operation screen mode, the screen flow creation unit 303 displays the setting state by the key operation on the operation screen based on the modified screen flow creation information 305. It is possible to create a screen flow by creating a screen image that is expressed and arranging the screen images in the order of screen transition. That is, the screen flow created here is a screen flow according to the customized operation screen mode.

  The customized screen information 307 is screen information for generating a customized operation screen. As described above, the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment can customize the operation screen such as display / non-display switching and rearrangement of elements (buttons) constituting the screen according to the user's preference. Possible (operation screen customization means). Accordingly, when the standard (default) screen information 304 is customized, the image forming apparatus 1 stores the customized (changed) screen information as the customized screen information 307.

  Reference is again made to FIG. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a screen flow created for a certain setting operation. As described above, the screen flow is created based on the screen flow creation information 305. If checked again, the screen flow creation information 305 includes screen information 304 for generating an operation screen, setting operation information indicating a setting state by key operation on the operation screen, and a screen order indicating a screen transition order of the operation screens. Includes information.

  20 to 23 are diagrams illustrating an example of the screen flow creation information 305. More specifically, FIG. 20 shows screen information and setting operation information of the screen image 1801 of FIG. 18, FIG. 21 shows screen information and setting operation information of the screen image 1802 of FIG. 18, and FIG. It is a figure which shows the screen information and setting operation information of an image 1803. FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating screen order information of the screen images 1801 to 1803. The screen flow shown in FIG. 19 is created based on the screen flow creation information 305. As described above, the screen information is configured based on information such as a layout file, a component file, and a specification file in the screen template.

(1) Screen customization example 1
First, the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment will be described in the case where the shape, size, and position of the button are customized on the operation screen. If the button is customized to be a large button so that it is easy to operate, or is customized to a position where it can be easily operated, there is a gap between the manual and the appearance of the operation screen that is actually operated for beginners who are not familiar with the operation. Therefore, in the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment, when the button is customized on the operation screen, the operation corresponding to the customization is performed by correcting the screen flow creation information once created to correspond to the customization screen. Enable screen flow creation. This will be described below.

  FIG. 24 shows an example of a customized operation screen. Specifically, the size and arrangement position of buttons indicating “magnification” and “same size” are customized. Along with customization of standard screen information, customized (changed) screen information (particularly button size and arrangement position information) is stored as customized screen information 307.

  FIG. 25 shows an example of customization screen information. 25 is customization screen information corresponding to the customized operation screen example of FIG. As shown in the figure, the buttons arranged on the screen and the information on the arrangement position are customized. Specifically, the button component is changed to one having a large shape, and the arrangement position of the two buttons is also changed vertically. Therefore, in this case, when a beginner or the like proceeds with the setting operation with reference to the screen flow 1800 in FIG. 18, there is an apparent gap between the screen image 1802 and the customized operation screen in FIG. 24 that is the actual operation screen. It is necessary to correct this apparent gap in the screen flow.

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart for explaining screen flow creation information correction processing of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment. When a screen flow output command is issued by a user or the like, screen flow creation information correction processing based on the flow is assumed to operate. Further, it is assumed that the screen flow creation information 305 shown in FIGS. 20 to 23 has already been created and stored in a storage unit or the like. Further, it is assumed that screen customization is performed as shown in FIGS.

  The screen flow creation information correction unit 306 acquires one screen identifier included in the screen flow to be created (S2601). According to FIGS. 18, 20 to 23, since the screen flow is composed of three screens, the screen identifier of the first screen is first acquired. In this case, the screen identifier “Windows1” is acquired (FIG. 20).

  Next, it is determined whether or not screen information corresponding to the acquired screen identification information exists in the customized screen information (S2602). This is because when a certain operation screen is customized, the screen information after customization is stored as the customized screen information. Here, since the screen information corresponding to the screen identifier “Windows1” is not customized, there is no customized screen information.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the screen with the screen identifier is the final screen (S2605). In this case, since the remaining two screens still exist, the process returns to S2601 again, and the next one screen identifier is acquired. In this case, the screen identifier “Windows 1-1” is acquired (FIG. 21).

  Next, it is determined whether or not screen information corresponding to the acquired screen identification information exists in the customized screen information (S2602). Here, since the operation screen corresponding to the screen identifier “Windows 1-1” is customized, there is customized screen information (FIG. 25).

  Next, the screen flow creation information correction unit 306 compares the difference between the screen information (FIG. 21) of the screen flow creation information on the screen and the customization screen information (FIG. 25) (S2603). Specifically, the customized button has been changed to a display part with a large shape, and the arrangement position of the two buttons has also been changed vertically, so that the customization screen information also reflects these customizations. In “Information”, the button names are changed to “Button 1-1-1x” and “Button 1-1-2x”. In “Button Information”, the button arrangement position and size are “X: 30 Y: 20 Size 150 × 40”, “X: 70 Y: 20 Size 150 × 40”.

  When there is a difference as described above, the screen flow creation information correction unit 306 corrects the screen information of the screen flow creation information 305 in the screen based on the difference from the customized screen information (S2604). This correction is made according to the difference. Here, since the shape, size, and position of the button are customized, the button names are “button 1-1-1x” and “button 1-1-2x” in the screen information of the screen flow creation information on the screen. In addition, the button arrangement position and size are corrected to “X: 30 Y: 20 Size 150 × 40” and “X: 70 Y: 20 Size 150 × 40”.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the screen with the screen identifier is the final screen (S2605). In this case, since one screen still exists, the process returns to S2601 again, and the next one screen identifier is acquired. In this case, the screen identifier “Windows 1-1-2” is acquired (FIG. 22).

  Next, similarly, it is determined whether or not screen information corresponding to the acquired screen identification information exists in the customized screen information, but the screen information corresponding to the screen identifier “Windows 1-1-2” is customized. There is no customization screen information. Then, the screen with the screen identifier is determined as the final screen (S2605).

  Finally, since the screen flow creation information has been modified in accordance with the customized operation screen mode, the screen flow creation unit 303 sets the setting state by key operation on the operation screen based on the modified screen flow creation information 305. Can be created, and a screen flow in which screen images are arranged in the order of screen transition can be created. That is, the screen flow created here is a screen flow according to the customized operation screen mode. FIG. 27 is an example of a diagram showing a screen flow created according to the customized operation screen mode. With reference to the screen image 1802-2 in the screen flow 1800-2, the button arrangement position and size by customization are corrected and reflected in the screen image.

  Thus, when the operation screen is customized, that is, for example, when the shape, size, and position of the button are customized, by correcting the screen flow creation information once created to correspond to the customized screen, It is possible to create an operation screen flow corresponding to customization.

(2) Screen customization example 2
Next, the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment will be described in a case where a button that has not existed so far is added on the operation screen due to addition of a new function or option. In such a case, since a new button is added, there is a gap between the manual and the appearance of the operation screen that is actually operated for beginners who are not familiar with the operation. Therefore, in the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment, when a button is added on the operation screen, the operation corresponding to the customization is performed by correcting the screen flow creation information once created so as to correspond to the customization screen. Enable screen flow creation. In addition, when the newly added button is a shortcut button added for the purpose of operation with fewer procedures, a screen flow for operating the shortcut button provided by screen customization is proposed. This will be described below.

  FIG. 28 shows an example of a customized operation screen. Specifically, a button indicating “print immediately” is added. Along with customization of standard screen information, customized (changed) screen information (addition button configuration information and component information) is stored as customized screen information 307.

  FIG. 29 shows an example of customization screen information. 29 is customized screen information corresponding to the customized operation screen example of FIG. As shown in the figure, the standard (default) screen information (FIG. 20) is customized, and the configuration information and part information of the add button are added. The add button “immediately print” is a shortcut key for directly transitioning to the print execution screen.

  Here, the flowchart of FIG. 26 is referred again. When a screen flow output command is issued by a user or the like, a screen flow creation information correction process based on the flow operates. In S2603 of FIG. 26, as a result of comparing the difference between the screen information of the screen flow creation information (FIG. 20) and the customization screen information (FIG. 29), the screen flow creation information correction unit 306 The screen information of the screen flow creation information on the screen is corrected based on the difference from the customized screen information (S2604). Specifically, as a difference, an add button “button 1-1-2” is added to the configuration information, and component information of the add button is added. Therefore, the screen flow creation information correction unit 306 adds the button “button 1-1-2” to the configuration information in the screen information of the screen flow creation information on the screen, and adds the component information of the addition button. FIG. 30 is an example of a diagram illustrating a screen flow created in accordance with a customized operation screen mode. With reference to a screen image 1802-3 in the screen flow 1800-3, the addition of a new button by customization is reflected in the screen image.

  Here, referring to the component information of the add button (button 1-1-2) in FIG. 29, the migration destination information is “Windows 1-1-2”. Referring to FIG. 22, “Windows 1-1-2”, which is the destination screen, is a single screen included in the screen flow, that is, an add button (“print immediately”) is a so-called shortcut. It turns out that it is a key. Then, since the newly added button is a shortcut button added for the purpose of operation with fewer steps, from the viewpoint of operation, operating the shortcut button provided by screen customization is the operation procedure. Can be said to be simple. Accordingly, when the screen flow creation information correction unit 306 corrects the screen information of the screen flow creation information in the screen based on the difference from the customization screen information, if the add button is a so-called shortcut key, the shortcut key is displayed. A screen flow that can be operated can be created. In this case, the screen flow creation information correction unit 306 corrects the setting operation information and the screen order information of the operation screen to which the shortcut key is additionally customized in order to prompt the shortcut key operation on the screen flow.

  FIG. 31 shows an example of screen flow creation information (setting operation information) that is modified when a shortcut key is used. FIG. 32 is an example of a diagram showing screen flow creation information (screen order information) that is modified when using a shortcut key. FIG. 33 is an example of a diagram showing a screen flow modified when using a shortcut key. That is, in the screen flow 1800-4 of FIG. 33, when creating a screen image 1801-4 that operates a shortcut key (“print immediately”), the setting operation information of FIG. 31 and the screen order information of FIG. As shown, it is necessary to modify the screen flow creation information.

  In the setting operation information in FIG. 31, the setting value “ON” is corrected so as to operate the add button “immediately print”, and in the screen order information in FIG. 32, the screen order is corrected to transition to the final screen 1803. Yes. Then, referring to the screen flow 1801-4 and the screen image 1801-4 in FIG. 33, the addition of a new button by customization is reflected, and further displayed to prompt the operation of the additional button. Further, the screen flow is such that the screen transitions to the screen image 1803 when a new add button is operated.

  When the add button is a so-called shortcut key as described above, a screen flow for operating this shortcut key can be created, but the screen can be selected so that the user can select either an existing procedure or a new procedure using a shortcut. At the time of flow output, it is good to display a confirmation display on the operation panel, such as “More procedure operation method found. Do you want to output the screen flow by this procedure?”.

  In a screen flow, a certain screen may be indispensable or may not be omitted in the operation procedure. In such a case, in addition to adopting the above-described user selection method, an administrator or the like may predefine a checkpoint screen. That is, in the user selection method, since it is assumed that the user (especially a beginner) does not know which procedure to select, a checkpoint screen is displayed as a screen that must be passed by an administrator or the like in advance. Prescribe (prohibition provision means). Since the checkpoint screen is an operation screen that should not be omitted as a screen flow, it can be said that the checkpoint screen is a screen in which deletion from the screen order information is prohibited.

  As a result, even if the add button is a so-called shortcut key and the screen transition to the final screen can be shortcutted, if the route does not pass the specified checkpoint screen, do not prompt the selection of the shortcut To do. That is, the screen flow creation information correction unit 306 does not correct the screen flow creation information that uses a shortcut key. For example, if the screen image 1802 in FIG. 30 is defined as a checkpoint screen, the screen image 1802 is an operation screen that must be passed through, and thus cannot be omitted. That is, a screen flow that prompts the user to operate the shortcut key (“print immediately”) of the screen image 1801-3 is not created. The reason why the screen image 1802 is defined as the checkpoint screen is that, for example, the administrator thinks that the setting of “magnification” on the operation screen corresponding to the screen image 1802 should not be omitted.

  On the other hand, when the add button is a so-called shortcut key and the screen transition to the final screen can be shortcutted, and the screen to be shortcutted does not include the checkpoint screen, the user can use the existing procedure or shortcut as described above. It is recommended to display a new procedure that can be selected.

  In this way, when the operation screen is customized, that is, for example, when a button that did not exist so far is added due to addition of new functions or options, etc., the screen flow once created to correspond to the customization screen By modifying the creation information, it is possible to create an operation screen flow corresponding to customization. In addition, when the newly added button is a shortcut button added for the purpose of operation with fewer procedures, a screen flow for operating the shortcut button provided by screen customization can be proposed.

(3) Screen customization example 3
Buttons that existed until then may be deleted due to administrative reasons or screen customization errors. Depending on the user's authority, etc., the button may be hidden. In addition, the button may be deleted as a result of the button being moved to another screen. This is a screen customization in which a button is moved from the initial screen to another screen when it is determined that the button should be arranged on another screen for the convenience of the user. In such a case, the operation may be confused, and the operation target button is eliminated, so that the intended setting operation cannot be performed in the first place.

  FIG. 34 shows an example of a customized operation screen. Specifically, this is an example of a customization screen in which the “black and white” button has been deleted. In the figure, the “black and white” button is indicated by a dotted line to indicate deletion. In such a case, in the customized screen information, the “black and white” button is operated from the setting operation information and the screen order information, even though the information of the button is deleted. That is, in creating the screen flow, there is no means for transitioning to the next operation screen, and there is a contradiction. In this case, at the time of screen flow output, warning indications such as “The operation method of the procedure cannot be found by screen customization.” And “The screen flow by this procedure cannot be output.” Should be displayed on the operation panel.

(Summary of Embodiment 2)
Hereinafter, the operation and effect of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment will be described as a summary.

The configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment is an image forming apparatus that includes an operation panel and displays a display screen related to image formation on the operation panel based on screen information for generating a display screen. Screen flow creation information acquisition means for acquiring screen flow creation information including screen information, setting operation information indicating a setting state by a key operation on the display screen, and screen order information indicating a screen transition order of the display screen Screen flow creation means for creating a screen flow expressing a setting state by a key operation on a display screen based on the screen flow creation information, and creating a screen flow in which the screen images are arranged in screen transition order, and the screen The display screen customization means for changing the information and customizing the display screen, and the display screen customization means Has been based on the screen information, and a screen flow generation information modifying means for modifying the current screen flow creation information acquired to the screen flow generation information acquisition means,
The screen flow creation means creates a screen flow based on the screen flow creation information modified by the screen flow creation information modification means.

  As described above, in the image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment, even when the operation screen is customized after the screen flow creation information is once acquired (for example, when the button shape, size, and position are customized), The screen flow creation information once created to correspond to the customization screen is modified, and the operation screen flow corresponding to customization is created based on the modified screen flow creation information. It is possible to omit the trouble of performing various setting operations in the forming apparatus 1, creating a screen flow, outputting the screen flow, and outputting a manual again.

  In the configuration of the image forming apparatus 1, the display screen is customized by the display screen customization unit, and a shortcut key that is an operation component for transitioning to the display screen included in the screen order information is the customized display screen. As a modification for prioritizing the shortcut key operation on the screen flow, the screen flow creation information modification means is configured to display the setting state by the shortcut key operation on the customized display screen. Correct the operation information, correct the screen order information so that the screen order of the display screen of the transition destination by the shortcut key operation is next to the customized display screen, and display the transition destination by the shortcut key operation Images between the customized display screens Delete the display screen located in the order from the screen sequence information.

  As described above, in the image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment, when screen customization is performed in which a so-called shortcut key is added to the operation screen, the screen flow creation information for prioritizing the shortcut key operation is corrected on the screen flow. Therefore, a screen flow with fewer procedure operations can be created, and an operation manual with fewer procedure operations can be created.

  The configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 further includes prohibition defining means for defining a display screen that prohibits deletion from the screen order information, and the shortcut key is added to the customized display screen, and the shortcut When a display screen whose deletion is prohibited by the prohibition specifying means is omitted by a key operation, the screen flow creation information correcting means stops the correction for giving priority to the shortcut key operation.

  As described above, in the image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment, a predetermined operation screen can be defined as a checkpoint screen in the screen flow, and shortcuts using shortcut keys are prohibited for the checkpoint screen. It is possible to prevent an operation screen that is indispensable or not to be omitted from being omitted by a shortcut key operation.

  Further, in the configuration of the image forming apparatus 1, when the display screen is customized by the display screen customizing unit and an operation component for transition to the display screen included in the screen order information is deleted or hidden, the operation is performed. Display a warning screen on the panel.

  As described above, in the image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment, when the screen flow creation information is acquired once, the operation screen is customized, and the operation target button is deleted, the warning screen is displayed to the user. Therefore, it can be notified that the screen flow cannot be created due to incorrect screen customization (or that the operation cannot be performed according to the screen flow).

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus, a screen flow creation method, and a program for creating an operation screen flow expressing a series of operation procedures up to job execution and supporting the operation of the apparatus. .

  The present invention is not limited to such specific embodiments, and various modifications and changes can be made within the scope of the gist of the present invention described in the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming apparatus 11 Operation panel 11a Input device 11b Display apparatus 12 Storage media I / F
12a Drive device 12b Recording medium 13 Controller 13a ROM
13b RAM
13c CPU
14 Data communication I / F
14a Interface device 15 Scanner 15a Image reading device 16 Plotter 16a Printing device 17 HDD
301 Screen management unit 302 Screen flow creation information acquisition unit 303 Screen flow creation unit 304 Screen information 305 Screen flow creation information 306 Screen flow creation information modification unit 307 Customized screen information

JP 2006-044167 A

Claims (6)

An image forming apparatus that includes an operation panel and displays a display screen related to image formation on the operation panel based on screen information for generating a display screen,
Screen flow creation information acquisition for acquiring screen flow creation information including the screen information, setting operation information indicating a setting state by a key operation on the display screen, and screen order information indicating a screen transition order of the display screen Means,
Based on the screen flow creation information, creating a screen image expressing a setting state by key operation on the display screen, and creating a screen flow in which the screen images are arranged in screen transition order;
Display screen customization means for changing the screen information and customizing the display screen;
Screen flow creation information correction means for correcting the screen flow creation information acquired by the screen flow creation information acquisition means based on the screen information changed by the display screen customization means;
The screen flow creation means creates a screen flow based on the screen flow creation information modified by the screen flow creation information modification means;
An image forming apparatus. When the display screen is customized by the display screen customization means, and a shortcut key that is an operation component for transitioning to the display screen included in the screen order information is added to the customized display screen,
As a modification to prioritize the shortcut key operation on the screen flow, the screen flow creation information modification unit modifies the setting operation information to indicate a setting state by the shortcut key operation on the customized display screen, The screen order information is corrected so that the screen order of the transition destination display screen by the shortcut key operation is next to the customized display screen, and the transition destination display screen and the customized display screen by the shortcut key operation are corrected. Deleting the display screen located in the screen order between and from the screen order information;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. A prohibition specifying means for specifying a display screen that prohibits deletion from the screen order information;
When the shortcut key is added to the customized display screen and the display screen whose deletion is prohibited by the prohibition specifying unit is omitted by the shortcut key operation, the screen flow creation information correcting unit is configured to operate the shortcut key operation. Discontinuing modifications to prioritize
The image forming apparatus according to claim 2. Displaying the warning screen on the operation panel when the display screen is customized by the display screen customization means and the operation component to be changed to the display screen included in the screen order information is deleted or hidden;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus is an image forming apparatus. A screen flow creation method in an image forming apparatus comprising an operation panel and displaying a display screen related to image formation on the operation panel based on screen information for generating a display screen,
Screen flow creation information acquisition for acquiring screen flow creation information including the screen information, setting operation information indicating a setting state by a key operation on the display screen, and screen order information indicating a screen transition order of the display screen Procedure and
Based on the screen flow creation information, create a screen image representing a setting state by key operation on the display screen, and create a screen flow in which the screen images are arranged in the order of screen transition;
A display screen customization procedure for changing the screen information and customizing the display screen;
A screen flow creation information correction procedure for correcting the screen flow creation information acquired in the screen flow creation information acquisition procedure based on the screen information changed by the display screen customization procedure;
The screen flow creation procedure creates a screen flow based on the screen flow creation information modified by the screen flow creation information modification procedure;
A screen flow creation method characterized by   A program for causing a computer to execute the screen flow creation method according to claim 5.

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