JP7296809B2 - display device and image forming device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a display device and the like, and more particularly to a display device and the like provided with a function execution button for instructing an image forming apparatus to execute a job.

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, an electrophotographic image forming apparatus has a detachably replaceable toner cartridge (toner container), and is configured to supply toner replenished from the toner cartridge to a developing device. . The toner replenished from the toner cartridge is temporarily stored in an intermediate hopper (toner conveying path), and is replenished from the intermediate hopper to the developing device.

With this configuration, even if the toner cartridge runs out of toner, the intermediate hopper stores toner, so it is possible to continue printing (continuous run state). Printing can be performed normally without causing printing failure.

However, in the conventional image forming apparatus, when it is difficult to check the remaining amount of toner in the toner cartridge, or when it is difficult to check that the toner cartridge runs out of toner and the operation is in continuous run, There is a problem that when printing a large amount of high-quality images, the toner may run out during printing, and printing may not be completed to the end.

Therefore, as a conventional technique, for example, in an image forming apparatus, the load applied to a motor that supplies toner from a toner bottle (toner cartridge) is measured, the amount of remaining toner is checked based on the measured load value, and the toner bottle is removed. A device that determines the necessity of replacement is disclosed (see Patent Document 1).

As another technique, an image forming apparatus has been disclosed in which the remaining amount of toner in each toner bottle is displayed on a display screen (Patent Document 2).

JP 2013-97005 A JP 2013-145336 A

Although the technology described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-200010 can determine which toner bottle needs to be replaced, it still has the problem of not being able to confirm whether or not the remaining amount of toner is in such a state.

Further, in the technique described in Patent Document 2, the amount of toner remaining in each toner bottle is displayed. However, since it is displayed at the lower end of the display screen away from the operating position, the user should be conscious of it during operation. There is a problem of difficulty.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a display device or the like that enables a user to always check the current remaining amount of toner when executing a job. .

A display device of the present invention includes a function execution button for instructing execution of a function of an image forming apparatus, a display section (for example, an operation panel) capable of displaying operation buttons including the function execution button, and the function execution button. a control unit operably displayed on the display unit; a toner remaining amount detection unit for detecting the remaining amount of toner in a toner storage container containing replenishment toner used in the image forming apparatus; and the toner remaining amount detection unit. and a remaining toner amount determination unit that determines the remaining amount of toner based on the detection result of the above, and the control unit changes the display mode of the function execution button according to the determination result of the remaining toner amount determination unit. Characterized by

The display device may be provided in an image forming device, a terminal device that instructs a job to the image forming device, or a so-called smartphone that also functions as a terminal device.

Further, the image forming apparatus of the present invention includes a developing device that supplies toner to the photosensitive drum, a toner storage container that stores toner for replenishment, and supplies the toner supplied from the toner storage container to the development device. In an image forming apparatus that controls a toner transport path (intermediate hopper) and the toner container to supply toner to the developing device, a function execution button for instructing execution of a function of the image forming apparatus, and the function execution. a display unit capable of displaying operation buttons including buttons; a control unit operably displaying the function execution button on the display unit; The present invention is characterized by comprising a display device comprising a toner remaining amount detecting section for detecting the remaining amount of toner and a toner remaining amount determining section for determining the toner remaining amount based on the detection result of the toner remaining amount detecting section.

The function execution button according to the present invention may be a software key displayed on the display unit or a hardware key arranged on the display unit.

A function execution button according to the present invention instructs execution of a processing function including copy, mail transmission, FAX transmission, and the like.

According to the display device and the like of the present invention, the toner remaining amount in the toner container is detected, and based on the detection result, the toner end, the near end, etc. are determined from the toner remaining amount state, and depending on the determination result. By changing the display mode of the function execution button, it is possible to provide a display device or the like that allows the user to always check the current remaining amount of toner when operating the function execution button. As a result, it is possible to reliably replace the toner storage container before the toner runs out even in the continuous run.

1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment; FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the overall configuration of an image forming apparatus; FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing a schematic configuration of toner replenishment to a developing device in the image forming apparatus; FIG. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a display screen of a display section in an operation section that constitutes the image forming apparatus; FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing Example 1 of a display mode of a copy button displayed on a display unit; 7 is a flow chart showing an example of processing for changing the display mode of a copy button displayed on the display unit; FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing Example 2 of the display mode of the copy button displayed on the display unit; FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing Example 1 in which the display mode of the copy button displayed on the display section of the operation section of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment is changed; FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of processing for changing the display mode of a copy button when continuous run is executed; FIG. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing Example 2 in which the display mode of the copy button displayed on the display unit is changed; FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a monochrome copy button and a color copy button displayed on the display section of the operation section of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment; FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing Example 1 in which display modes of a monochrome copy button and a color copy button are changed; 7 is a flowchart showing an example of processing for changing the display mode of a monochrome copy button and a color copy button when a continuous run is executed; FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing Example 2 in which the display modes of the monochrome copy button and the color copy button displayed on the display unit are changed; FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing Example 3 in which the display mode of the monochrome copy button and the color copy button displayed on the display unit is changed; 7 is a flowchart showing an example of processing for changing the display mode of a monochrome copy button and a color copy button when black toner is near-end. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a monochrome copy button and a color copy button displayed on a display section of an operation section of an image forming apparatus according to a fourth embodiment; FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing Example 1 in which the display mode of color copy buttons is changed; 7 is a flow chart showing an example of processing for changing the display mode of a color copy button when a continuous run is executed; FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing Example 2 in which the display mode of the color copy button displayed on the display section is changed; FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing Example 3 in which the display mode of the color copy button displayed on the display section is changed; 7 is a flowchart showing an example of processing for changing the display mode of color copy buttons when color toner is near-end. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a monochrome copy button and a color copy button displayed on a display section of an operation section of an image forming apparatus according to a fifth embodiment; 24A and 24B are explanatory diagrams showing an example in which the display mode of the color copy button is changed. 7 is a flow chart showing an example of processing for changing the display mode of a color copy button corresponding to a specific color toner based on the amount of remaining toner in a color toner cartridge; FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of displaying a monochrome copy button, a color copy button, and a toner remaining amount information display button on the display section of the operation section of the image forming apparatus according to the sixth embodiment; FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing Example 1 in which details of toner remaining amount information are displayed on a display unit; FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing Example 2 in which details of toner remaining amount information are displayed on a display unit;

(First embodiment)
A first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is an example of a mode for carrying out the invention, and is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the overall configuration of the image forming apparatus.

As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment includes a developing device 135 that supplies toner to a photosensitive drum 137, a toner cartridge (toner container) 131, and an intermediate hopper (toner conveying path). 133, a control unit 100 for controlling the supply of toner from the toner cartridge 131 to the developing device 135, and a characteristic operation unit 140 functioning as a display device.

The operation unit 140 is characterized by having a display unit 150 , a toner remaining amount detection unit 170 , a toner remaining amount determination unit 180 , and a display mode generation unit 190 . A copy button 1530 is displayed on the display unit 150 , and the display mode of the copy button 1530 is changed according to the determination result of the toner remaining amount determination unit 180 .

(Configuration of image forming apparatus)
First, the basic configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment will be described.
As shown in FIG. 2, the image forming apparatus 1 is an information processing apparatus that includes a document reading unit 112 on the upper part of the apparatus body, reads an image of a document, and outputs the image by an electrophotographic method.
As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 1 mainly includes a control section 100, an image input section 110, an image processing section 120, an image forming section 130, and a storage section 160. ing.

The control unit 100 is a functional unit for controlling the entire image forming apparatus 1 .
The control unit 100 implements various functions by reading and executing various programs, and is composed of, for example, one or a plurality of arithmetic units (for example, CPU (Central Processing Unit)).

The image input unit 110 is, for example, an optical reader, and is a functional unit for reading image data input to the image forming apparatus 1 . Image input unit 110 is connected to document reading unit 112 which is a functional unit for reading an image of a document, and receives image data output from document reading unit 112 .

Also, the image input unit 110 may input image data from a storage medium such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory or an SD card. Further, the image data may be input from the other terminal device by providing a communication unit for connecting with the other terminal device.

The image processing unit 120 is a functional unit that performs various types of image processing on image data. Then, an output image is formed based on the image data subjected to image processing.

The image forming unit 130 is a functional unit for forming output data based on image data on a recording medium (for example, recording paper). For example, as shown in FIG. 2 , recording paper is fed from paper feed tray 122 , an image is formed on the surface of the recording paper in image forming section 130 , and then discharged from paper discharge tray 124 . The image forming unit 130 is configured by, for example, a laser printer using an electrophotographic method.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, a charging device (not shown) applies a charging bias to the surface of the photoreceptor drum 137 to charge the surface of the photoreceptor drum 137 . Then, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the charged surface of the photosensitive drum 137 by an exposure device (not shown). A toner image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 137 by the developing device 135 . The toner image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 137 is transferred to a recording sheet and output as a printed matter.

The image forming section 130 also includes a toner cartridge 131 , an intermediate hopper 133 , and a developing device 135 .

The toner cartridge 131 accommodates replenishment toner and is detachably attached to the apparatus main body.

The intermediate hopper 133 temporarily stores toner supplied from the toner cartridge 131 . Then, the toner is supplied from the intermediate hopper 133 to the developing device 135 .

The developing device 135 accommodates the toner supplied from the intermediate hopper 133 , supplies an appropriate amount of toner to the photoreceptor drum 137 , and forms a toner image with an appropriate toner density on the photoreceptor drum 137 .

The operation unit 140 is a functional unit for receiving an operation instruction from a user, and includes various key switches, a device for detecting input by contact, and the like. The user inputs functions to be used and output conditions via the operation unit 140 . The display unit 150 is a functional unit for displaying various information to the user, and is configured by, for example, an LCD (Liquid crystal display).

In the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the operation unit 140 functions as a display device in which the display unit 150 is integrally formed. The display unit 150 is configured to function as a touch panel. A general detection method such as a resistive film method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, or an electrostatic capacitance method may be used as a method for detecting an input to the touch panel.

The storage unit 160 is a functional unit that stores various programs and various data necessary for the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 . The storage unit 160 is configured by, for example, a semiconductor memory such as an SSD (Solid State Drive) or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive).

(Toner replenishment to developing device)
Next, toner replenishment of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described.
FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing a schematic configuration of toner replenishment to the developing device in the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment.

In the image forming apparatus 1, as shown in FIG. 3, the intermediate hopper 133 is arranged above the developing device 135, and the toner cartridge 131 is detachably arranged above the intermediate hopper 133. As shown in FIG.

The toner cartridge 131 is driven and controlled by the controller 100 to supply a predetermined amount of toner to the intermediate hopper 133 based on a toner replenishment request signal to the intermediate hopper 133 .

Based on a toner replenishment request signal to the developing device 135 , the intermediate hopper 133 drives the driving motor 1331 to operate the conveying means (not shown) by the control unit 100 , thereby supplying a predetermined amount of toner to the developing device 135 . The developer tank 1351 is driven and controlled so as to be supplied to the developer tank 1351 of FIG.

In the first embodiment, the control unit 100 supplies a predetermined amount of toner from the intermediate hopper 133 to the developing tank 1351 according to the driving time of the driving motor 1331 .

As described above, the toner supply from the toner cartridge 131 to the intermediate hopper 133 is controlled by the controller 100 based on the toner replenishment request signal until the toner cartridge 131 runs out of toner. Toner may be supplied directly from the toner cartridge 131 to the developing device 135 .

(Construction of operation unit)
Next, a characteristic configuration of the operation unit 140 that constitutes the image forming apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment will be described.
FIG. 4 is an explanatory view showing an example of the display screen of the display section of the operation section constituting the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment, and FIG. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of processing for changing the display mode of the copy button displayed on the display section, and FIG. 7 shows a second embodiment of the display mode of the copy button displayed on the display section. It is an explanatory diagram.

As shown in FIG. 1, the operation unit 140 according to the first embodiment mainly includes a display unit 150, a toner remaining amount detection unit 170, a toner remaining amount determination unit 180, and a display mode generation unit 190. It is characterized by being configured with

The toner remaining amount detection unit 170 detects the toner remaining amount in the toner cartridge 131 that stores replenishment toner used in the image forming apparatus 1 .

The toner remaining amount determination section 180 determines the toner remaining amount based on the detection result of the toner remaining amount detection section 170 .

The display mode generation unit 190 generates the display mode of the copy button 1530 according to the determination result of the toner remaining amount determination unit 180 .

In the first embodiment, the control section 100 of the image forming apparatus 1 functions as a control section that controls each section related to display/operation in the operation section 140 .

As shown in FIG. 4, the display unit 150 displays a preview display area 1510, a plurality of operation buttons 1520a, 1520b, 1520c, and 1520d as software keys, and a copy button 1530 on a display screen 1501. FIG.

A preview display area 1510 is provided substantially in the center of the display screen 1501 . Operation buttons 1520a to 1520d are displayed on one end side of the display screen 1501 (left side in the figure). A copy button 1530 is displayed below the other end of the display screen 1501 (right side in the figure).

In the first embodiment, the copy button 1530 is displayed in the largest size among the operation buttons displayed within the display screen 1501 .

Further, in the first embodiment, the copy button 1530 is displayed at the same position on the display screen 1501 even when the function mode of the image forming apparatus 1 (for example, copy mode, mail mode, FAX mode, etc.) is switched.

The first embodiment is characterized in that the copy button 1530 is controlled by the control unit 100 so that the display mode changes according to the remaining amount of toner in the toner cartridge 131 .

Hereinafter, changes in the display mode of the copy button 1530 will be described in detail with reference to examples.

(Example 1)
In Example 1, as shown in FIG. 5, a copy button 1530 displayed on the display unit 150 is provided with a text display area 1531 .

In the text display area 1531, text 1531a including the number of printable sheets corresponding to the remaining amount of toner in the toner cartridge 131 is displayed.

(Generation of display mode of copy button)
Next, generation of the display mode of the copy button 1530 corresponding to the remaining amount of toner in the first embodiment will be described with reference to a flowchart.

The generation of the display mode of the copy button 1530 corresponding to the remaining amount of toner is executed as follows. As shown in FIG. 6, first, the toner remaining amount in the toner cartridge 131 is detected by the toner remaining amount detection unit 170 (step S101). Then, the toner remaining amount is determined by the toner remaining amount determining unit 180 based on the detection result of the toner remaining amount detecting unit 170 (step S103).

Then, it is determined whether or not there is remaining toner (step S105). If it is determined in step S105 that there is remaining toner, the controller 100 calculates the number of printable sheets according to the remaining amount of toner (step S107). Here, it is calculated based on the average coverage rate of printed matter printed so far. For example, the number of printable sheets is calculated according to the remaining amount of toner in terms of A4 paper with a print rate of 5(%).

Then, the display mode generating unit 190 generates a text 1531a indicating the calculated number of printable sheets (for example, 200 sheets) (step S109). Then, the text 1531a indicating the number of printable sheets is displayed in the text display area 1531 of the copy button 1530 (step S111). In this way, the copy button 1530 displays the number of printable sheets.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S105 that there is no remaining toner, the display mode generating unit 190 generates a text indicating that the toner is out (for example, "Toner is out") (step S113). Then, a text indicating toner end is displayed in the text display area 1531 of the copy button 1530 (step S115).

In this way, as the display mode of the copy button 1530, it is possible to display the number of printable sheets according to the remaining amount of toner, or display that the toner cartridge 131 is in the toner end state.

(Example 2)
In the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, a copy button 1530 displayed on the display unit 150 is provided with an image display area 1532 instead of the text display area 1531 of the first embodiment.

In the image display area 1532, a toner remaining amount image 1532a corresponding to the toner remaining amount in the toner cartridge 131 is displayed.

The toner remaining amount image 1532a is generated by the display mode generating unit 190 in a display area corresponding to the toner remaining amount, with the display area where the copy button 1530 is displayed as a display area with a toner amount of 100 (%).

For example, when the toner remaining amount is 80(%), as shown in FIG.

In this manner, by displaying the toner remaining amount image 1532a indicating the toner remaining amount in the toner cartridge 131 superimposed on the copy button 1530, the toner remaining amount can be visually recognized.

With the configuration as described above, according to the first embodiment, in the image forming apparatus 1, the configuration of the operation unit 140 functioning as a display device includes the display unit 150, the remaining toner amount detection unit 170, and the remaining toner amount determination unit. By including the unit 180 and the display mode generation unit 190 , the display mode of the copy button 1530 can be changed according to the remaining amount of toner in the toner cartridge 131 . As a result, it is possible to provide a display device or the like that allows the user to always check the current remaining amount of toner when the copy button 1530 is operated.

In the first embodiment, the copy button 1530 functioning as a function execution button is displayed on the display unit 150 as a software key. It may be displayed as a software key on the display screen of the printer driver displayed on the screen).

(Second embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment will be described.
The second embodiment is characterized in that, in the image forming apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment, the display mode of the copy button 1530 is changed when printing is performed with the toner cartridge 131 empty. It is something to do.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing Example 1 in which the display mode of the copy button displayed on the display unit of the operation unit of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment is changed. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing an example of processing for changing the display mode of the copy button, and FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing Example 2 in which the display mode of the copy button displayed on the display unit is changed.

In addition, in 2nd Embodiment, for convenience of explanation, the same number is attached|subjected to the structure which has the same function as 1st Embodiment, and description is abbreviate|omitted.

(Example 1)
Hereinafter, changes in the display mode of the copy button 1530 will be described in detail with reference to examples.

In the first embodiment, when the remaining amount of toner in the toner cartridge 131 is empty, the copy button 1530 changes its display shape to an elliptical shape and changes its color as shown in FIG. 2530 display mode is changed and displayed.

The text display of the copy button 2530 at this time is "copy start", like the text display of the copy button 1530 shown in FIG. This makes it clear that the copy button 2530 whose display mode has changed functions as a copy start button in the same way as the copy button 1530 does.

(Generation of display mode of copy button)
Next, generation of the display mode of the copy button 2531 that is displayed when the toner cartridge 131 of the first embodiment runs out of toner will be described with reference to a flowchart.

The generation of the display mode of the copy button 2531 that is displayed when the remaining amount of toner is empty is executed as follows. As shown in FIG. 9, first, the toner remaining amount in the toner cartridge 131 is detected by the toner remaining amount detection unit 170 (step S201). Then, the toner remaining amount is determined by the toner remaining amount determination unit 180 based on the detection result of the toner remaining amount detection unit 170 (step S203).

Then, it is determined whether or not the toner cartridge 131 is empty (step S205). If it is determined in step S205 that the toner cartridge 131 is empty, the operation of the apparatus main body is controlled in continuous run (step S207). Then, the display mode generation unit 190 generates an image indicating the continuous run state (step S209).

In the first embodiment, the display image of the copy button is generated in the display mode generation unit 190 in an elliptical shape and in a color different from the color of the copy button in the initial state.

Then, the copy button 1530 is changed to a copy button 2530 indicating the continuous run state and displayed (step S211).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S205 that the toner cartridge 131 is not empty, the process returns to step S201, and detection of the toner remaining amount in the toner cartridge 131 is continued.

In this way, when the toner cartridge 131 is empty, the copy button 1530 is changed to the copy button 2530 indicating the continuous run state and displayed, so that the user can press the copy button. When operating the 2530, it can be confirmed that the remaining amount of toner in the toner cartridge is empty.

(Example 2)
In the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, when the remaining amount of toner in the toner cartridge 131 becomes empty, the continuous run operation is performed in the vicinity of the copy button 1530 displayed on the display unit 150 . An icon 2532 indicating is displayed.

The icon 2532 may indicate that the vehicle is to be driven in continuous run more clearly by displaying an operation such as blinking.

In this way, when the toner cartridge 131 runs out of toner, when the user operates the copy button 1530, the icon 2532 allows the user to confirm that continuous run operation is being performed. The toner cartridge 131 can be reliably replaced before the toner in the hopper 133 runs out.

With the configuration as described above, according to the second embodiment, in the image forming apparatus 1, when the printing process is performed with the toner cartridge 131 empty, the display mode of the copy button 1530 is displayed. By changing the shape or color of the copy button 2530, or by displaying an icon 2532 near the copy button 1530 to change the display mode around the copy button 1530, the user can press the copy button 1530. During operation, it is possible to easily confirm that the apparatus main body is being operated in continuous run.

(Third embodiment)
Next, a third embodiment will be described.
The third embodiment relates to an image forming apparatus in which a plurality of black toner cartridges and color toner cartridges can be installed. The black-and-white copy button and color copy button are displayed when printing is performed when the toner cartridge is empty, or when the amount of toner remaining in the black toner cartridge is less than the specified amount. It is characterized by changing the aspect similarly.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the monochrome copy button and the color copy button displayed on the display unit of the operation unit of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment, and FIG. 12 shows the monochrome copy button and the color copy button. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of processing for changing the display mode of the monochrome copy button and the color copy button when the continuous run is executed; FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing a second embodiment in which the display mode of the monochrome copy button and the color copy button displayed on the display unit is changed, and FIG. 15 shows the monochrome copy button and the color copy button displayed on the display unit. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of processing for changing the display modes of the black-and-white copy button and the color copy button when black toner is near-end. be.

In addition, in 3rd Embodiment, for convenience of explanation, the same number is attached|subjected to the structure which has the same function as 1st Embodiment, and description is abbreviate|omitted.

In the third embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 can be loaded with a plurality of toner cartridges 131 for black toner and color toner. An area 1510, a plurality of operation buttons 1520a, 1520b, 1520c, 1520d as software keys, and a monochrome copy button 3540 and a color copy button 3550 as software keys functioning as function execution buttons are displayed.

In the third embodiment, when the continuous run printing process is performed when the toner cartridge 131 for black toner is empty, or when the remaining amount of toner in the toner cartridge 131 for black toner becomes less than a predetermined amount. When the button 3540 for monochrome copy and the button 3550 for color copy are controlled by the control unit 100 to change in the same manner.

(Example 1)
Hereinafter, changes in the display modes of the monochrome copy button 3540 and the color copy button 3550 will be specifically described with reference to embodiments.

In the first embodiment, the monochrome copy button 3540 and the color copy button 3550 are displayed in an oval shape as shown in FIG. 12 when the black toner cartridge 131 runs out of toner. The monochrome copy button 3541 and the color copy button 3551 whose colors have changed along with the change are displayed in different display modes.

At this time, the text display of the monochrome copy button 3541 and the color copy button 3551 is "monochrome" and "color", similar to the text display of the monochrome copy button 3540 and the color copy button 3550 before the change shown in FIG. is displayed. As a result, the monochrome copy button 3541 and the color copy button 3551 whose display modes have changed function as "monochrome" and "color" copy start buttons in the same manner as the monochrome copy button 3540 and the color copy button 3550. becomes clear.

(Generation of display mode of monochrome copy button and color copy button)
Next, generation of the display mode of the monochrome copy button 3541 and the color copy button 3551 that are displayed when the remaining amount of toner in the black toner cartridge 131 of the first embodiment is empty will be described with reference to a flowchart. do.

The generation of the display modes of the monochrome copy button 3541 and the color copy button 3551 that are displayed when the toner cartridge 131 of black toner runs out of toner is executed as follows.

As shown in FIG. 13, first, the remaining amount of toner in the toner cartridge 131 of each color is detected by the remaining amount of toner detecting section 170 (step S301). Then, the toner remaining amount is determined by the toner remaining amount determination unit 180 based on the detection result of the toner remaining amount detection unit 170 (step S303).

Then, it is determined whether or not the black toner cartridge 131 is empty (step S305). If it is determined in step S305 that the black toner cartridge 131 is empty, the operation of the apparatus main body is controlled in continuous run (step S307). Then, the display mode generation unit 190 generates an image showing the continuous run state of the monochrome copy button 3540 and the color copy button 3550 (step S309).

In the first embodiment, the display image of the monochrome copy button 3540 and the color copy button 3550 is generated in the display mode generation unit 190 in an elliptical shape and in a color different from the color of the copy button in the initial state.

Then, the monochrome copy button 3540 and the color copy button 3550 are changed to the monochrome copy button 3541 and the color copy button 3551 indicating the continuous run state and displayed (step S311).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S305 that the black toner cartridge 131 is not empty, the process returns to step S301 to continue detecting the remaining amount of toner in each color toner cartridge 131 .

In this way, when the black toner cartridge 131 is empty, the monochrome copy button 3540 and the color copy button 3550 are pressed to indicate the continuous run state. , so that when the user operates the monochrome copy button 3541 or the color copy button 3551, the remaining amount of toner in the black toner cartridge 131 is empty. can be confirmed.

(Example 2)
In the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, when the toner cartridge 131 of black toner runs out of toner, the black-and-white copy button 3540 and the color copy button 3550 are displayed on the display unit 150. Icons 3542 and 3552 indicating continuous run driving are displayed nearby.

The icons 3542 and 3552 may indicate the operation by blinking or the like, so that the notification can be made more clearly than the continuous run driving.

In this manner, when the toner cartridge 131 for black toner runs out of toner, the continuous run operation is performed when the user operates the monochrome copy button 3540 or the color copy button 3550 . Since it can be confirmed by the icons 3542 and 3552 that the black toner is present, the black toner cartridge 131 can be reliably replaced before the black toner in the intermediate hopper 133 runs out.

(Example 3)
In the third embodiment, as shown in FIG. 15, a monochrome copy button 3540 and a color copy button 3550 displayed on the display unit 150 are provided with image display areas 3543 and 3553 .

In the image display areas 3543 and 3553, remaining toner images 3543a and 3553a corresponding to the near-end state of the remaining toner in the toner cartridge 131 are displayed.

The remaining amount of toner images 3543a and 3553a are generated by the display mode generation unit 190 so that the display area where the monochrome copy button 3540 and the color copy button 3550 are displayed is a display area with a toner amount of 100 (%), and is in a near-end state. is generated in a small display area so that

In this way, when the toner remaining amount in the toner cartridge 131 of black toner reaches the near-end state, toner remaining amount images 3543a and 3553a corresponding to the near-end state are superimposed on the monochrome copy button 3540 and the color copy button 3550. is displayed, it is possible to visually recognize that the remaining amount of toner is in the near-end state.

In order to further clarify the near-end state, a text display such as "near-end" may be superimposed on the image display areas 3543 and 3553 and displayed.

With the configuration described above, according to the third embodiment, in the image forming apparatus 1, a plurality of toner cartridges 131 for black toner and color toner can be installed, and the remaining amount of toner in the toner cartridge 131 for black toner is When print processing is performed in an empty state, the display mode of the monochrome copy button 3540 and the color copy button 3550 is changed to the monochrome copy button 3541 and the color copy button 3551 whose display shape and color are changed. , or by displaying icons 3542 and 3552 near the monochrome copy button 3540 and color copy button 3550 to change the display mode of the monochrome copy button 3540 and color copy button 3550, the user can When the copy button 3540 or the color copy button 3550 is operated, it can be easily confirmed that the main body of the apparatus is operated in continuous run.

Further, in the image forming apparatus 1, when the black toner cartridge 131 is in the near-end state, the toner remaining amount images 3543a and 3553a corresponding to the near-end state are superimposed on the monochrome copy button 3540 and the color copy button 3550. By displaying this, it is possible to visually recognize that the remaining amount of toner is in the near-end state.

(Fourth embodiment)
Next, a fourth embodiment will be described.
The fourth embodiment is an image forming apparatus in which a plurality of toner cartridges 131 of black toner and color toner can be installed, in which a monochrome copy button and a color copy button are displayed as function execution buttons on the display unit. When printing is performed with an empty toner cartridge for color toner, or when the remaining amount of toner in the toner cartridge for color toner is less than a predetermined amount, the display mode of the color copy button will be changed in the same manner. It is characterized by changing.

FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the monochrome copy button and the color copy button displayed on the display unit of the operation unit of the image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment, and FIG. 18 shows changes in the display mode of the color copy button. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of processing for changing the display mode of the color copy button when the continuous run is executed; FIG. 20 is a color copy displayed on the display unit; 21 is an explanatory view showing Example 3 in which the display mode of the color copy button displayed on the display section is changed; FIG. 22 is an explanatory view showing color toner 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing for changing the display mode of color copy buttons when the printer is in a near-end state.

In addition, in 4th Embodiment, for convenience of explanation, the same number is attached|subjected to the structure which has the same function as 1st Embodiment, and description is abbreviate|omitted.

In the fourth embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 can be loaded with a plurality of toner cartridges 131 for black toner and color toner. An area 1510, a plurality of operation buttons 1520a, 1520b, 1520c, 1520d as software keys, and a monochrome copy button 4540 and a color copy button 4550 as software keys functioning as function execution buttons are displayed.

In the fourth embodiment, when the printing process is performed with the color toner cartridge 131 empty, or when the remaining amount of toner in the color toner cartridge 131 is less than a predetermined amount, the control unit 100, the display mode of the color copy button 4550 is changed.

(Example 1)
Hereinafter, changes in the display mode of the color copy button 4550 will be specifically described with reference to embodiments.

In the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 18, when the toner cartridge 131 for color toner runs out of toner, the color copy button 4550 changes its display shape to an elliptical shape and changes its color. The changed color copy button 4551 is displayed in a different display mode.

The text display of the color copy button 4551 at this time is "color", like the text display of the color copy button 4550 before the change.

(Generation of display mode of color copy button)
Next, generation of the display mode of the color copy button 4551 that is displayed when the remaining amount of toner in the toner cartridge 131 of the color toner of the first embodiment is empty will be described with reference to a flowchart.

The generation of the display mode of the color copy button 3551, which is displayed when the toner cartridge 131 of the color toner has run out of toner, is executed as follows.

As shown in FIG. 19, first, the remaining amount of toner in the toner cartridge 131 of each color is detected by the remaining amount of toner detection unit 170 (step S401). Then, the toner remaining amount is determined by the toner remaining amount determination unit 180 based on the detection result of the toner remaining amount detection unit 170 (step S403).

Then, it is determined whether or not the color toner cartridge 131 is empty (step S405). If it is determined in step S405 that the color toner cartridge 131 is empty, the operation of the apparatus main body is controlled in continuous run (step S407). Then, the display mode generation unit 190 generates an image showing the continuous run state of the color copy button 4550 (step S409).

In the first embodiment, the display image of the color copy button 4550 is generated in the display mode generation unit 190 in an elliptical shape and in a color different from the color of the copy button in the initial state.

Then, the color copy button 4550 is changed to a color copy button 4551 indicating the continuous run state and displayed (step S411).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S405 that the color toner cartridge 131 is not empty, the process returns to step S401 to continue detecting the amount of remaining toner in the toner cartridge 131 of each color.

In this manner, when the toner cartridge 131 for color toner is empty, the color copy button 4550 is displayed in a changed display mode like the color copy button 4551 indicating the continuous run state. Therefore, when the user operates the color copy button 4551, the user can confirm that the remaining amount of toner in the toner cartridge 131 for color toner is empty.

(Example 2)
In the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 20, when the remaining amount of toner in the toner cartridge 131 for color toner is empty, a continuous run button is displayed near the color copy button 4550 displayed on the display unit 150 . An icon 4552 indicating that the vehicle is to be driven is displayed.

The icon 4552 may display an operation, such as blinking, to give a clearer notification than continuous run driving.

In this way, when the toner cartridge 131 for color toner runs out of toner, when the user operates the color copy button 4550, the icon 4552 indicates that continuous run operation is being performed. Since this can be confirmed, the color toner cartridge 131 can be reliably replaced before the color toner in the intermediate hopper 133 runs out.

(Example 3)
In the third embodiment, image display areas 4543 and 4553 are provided in a monochrome copy button 4540 and a color copy button 4550 displayed on the display unit 150, as shown in FIG.

In the image display area 4553, a toner remaining amount image 4553a corresponding to the state where the toner remaining amount in the toner cartridge 131 of the color toner is near-end is displayed.

The toner remaining amount image 4553a is displayed in a small range so that the display area in which the color copy button 4550 is displayed is set to a toner amount of 100 (%) by the display mode generation unit 190 so that the near-end state can be understood. Generated in the region.

In this way, when the remaining amount of toner in the toner cartridge 131 for the color toner reaches the near-end state, the toner remaining amount image 4553a corresponding to the near-end state is superimposed on the color copy button 4550 to visually It is possible to recognize that the toner remaining amount of the color toner is in the near-end state.

In order to further clarify the near-end state, a text display such as "near-end" may be superimposed on the image display area 4553 and displayed.

With the above configuration, according to the fourth embodiment, in the image forming apparatus 1, a plurality of toner cartridges 131 for black toner and color toner can be installed, and the toner cartridge 131 for color toner is empty. When print processing is performed in the state, the display mode of the color copy button 4550 can be changed to a color copy button 4551 with a different display shape or color, or an icon 4552 can be placed near the color copy button 4550. By displaying and changing the display mode of the color copy button 4550, when the user operates the color copy button 4550, it is possible to easily confirm that the apparatus main body is being operated in continuous run. .

Further, in the image forming apparatus 1, when the toner cartridge 131 of the color toner is in the near-end state, by displaying the toner remaining amount image 4553a corresponding to the near-end state over the color copy button 4550, it is possible to visually It can be recognized that the remaining amount of toner is in a near-end state.

(Fifth embodiment)
Next, a fifth embodiment will be described.
In the fifth embodiment, in an image forming apparatus 1 to which toner cartridges 131 of a plurality of color toners can be attached, a color copy button is displayed as a function execution button on the display section, and a display mode of the color copy button is , the remaining amount of toner in the color toner cartridge 131 having the smallest remaining amount of toner among the installed toner cartridges 131 of the color toner is changed to a color corresponding to the color toner to change the color of the color copy button. It is characterized in that the notification is made by character information.

FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the monochrome copy button and the color copy button displayed on the display unit of the operation unit of the image forming apparatus according to the fifth embodiment, and FIG. FIG. 25 is a flow chart showing an example of processing for changing the display mode of the color copy button corresponding to a specific color toner based on the amount of toner remaining in the toner cartridge of the color toner.

In addition, in 5th Embodiment, for convenience of explanation, the same number is attached|subjected to the structure which has the same function as 1st Embodiment, and description is abbreviate|omitted.

In the fifth embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 can be loaded with a plurality of toner cartridges 131 for black toner and color toner. An area 1510, a plurality of operation buttons 1520a, 1520b, 1520c, 1520d as software keys, and a monochrome copy button 5540 and a color copy button 5550 as software keys functioning as function execution buttons are displayed.

In the fifth embodiment, the remaining toner amount information of the color toner cartridge 131 having the least remaining amount of toner among the attached toner cartridges 131 of the color toner is converted to a color corresponding to the color toner for color copying. It is characterized by changing the color of the button and notifying with character information.

(Example 1)
Hereinafter, changes in the display mode of the color copy button 5550 will be specifically described with reference to embodiments.

In Example 1, as shown in FIG. 24, an image display area 5551 is provided in the color copy button 5550 displayed on the display unit 150 .

In the image display area 5551, a toner remaining amount image 5551a corresponding to the toner remaining amount of the toner cartridge of the color toner having the smallest toner remaining amount is displayed.

The remaining amount of toner image 5551a is generated by the display mode generation unit 190 in a display area corresponding to the remaining amount of toner, with the display area where the color copy button 5550 is displayed as the display area of the toner amount of 100 (%). be.

An icon 5552 including color information of the color toner with the least amount of remaining toner is displayed on the color copy button 5550 .

In Example 1, the yellow toner is used as the color toner with the smallest remaining amount of toner. Therefore, icon 5552 includes character information of “yellow” as color information of color toner.
Note that the toner remaining amount image 5551a may be displayed in yellow.

Also, the text display of the color copy button 5550 is displayed as "color" in the same manner as the text display of the color copy button 5550 before change shown in FIG.

(Generation of display mode of color copy button)
Next, the generation of the display mode of the color copy button 5550 for displaying the toner remaining amount information of the toner cartridge of the color toner having the least amount of remaining toner according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to a flowchart.

The generation of the display mode of the color copy button 5550 for displaying the toner remaining amount information of the color toner cartridge 131 with the least toner remaining amount among the toner cartridges 131 installed in the image forming apparatus 1 is as follows. is executed.

As shown in FIG. 25, first, the toner remaining amount in the toner cartridge 131 of each color is detected by the toner remaining amount detection unit 170 (step S501). Then, the toner remaining amount of each toner cartridge 131 is determined by the toner remaining amount determination unit 180 based on the detection result of the toner remaining amount detection unit 170 (step S503).

Then, the toner cartridge 131 of the color toner with the smallest remaining amount of toner is specified from among the toner cartridges 131 of the plurality of color toners (step S505).

Then, the remaining amount of toner in the identified toner cartridge 131 is displayed on the color copy button 5550 (step S507).

Then, an icon 5552 of color information of the color toner of the specified toner cartridge 131 is generated (step S509).

Then, the icon 5552 of the color information of the color toner of the specified toner cartridge 131 is displayed on the color copy button 5550 (step S511).

In this way, the toner remaining amount information of the toner cartridge 131 of the toner cartridge 131 with the least amount of remaining toner among the plurality of color toners is displayed. It is possible to easily confirm whether the toner of the toner has been consumed the most.

(Sixth embodiment)
Next, a sixth embodiment will be described.
The sixth embodiment is an image forming apparatus in which a plurality of toner cartridges of black toner and color toner can be installed, in which a monochrome copy button and a color copy button are displayed as function execution buttons on the display unit, and further and a toner remaining amount information display button (toner remaining amount information display section) for displaying information on the remaining amount of toner in the toner cartridge is displayed in a display area near the monochrome copy button and the color copy button. It is something to do.

FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of displaying a monochrome copy button, a color copy button, and a toner remaining amount information display button on the display section of the operation section of the image forming apparatus according to the sixth embodiment, and FIG. FIG. 28 is an explanatory diagram showing Example 1 in which detailed toner remaining amount information is displayed, and FIG. 28 is an explanatory view showing Example 2 in which toner remaining amount information is displayed in detail on the display unit.

In addition, in 6th Embodiment, for convenience of explanation, the same number is attached|subjected to the structure which has the same function as 1st Embodiment, and description is abbreviate|omitted.

In the sixth embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 can be loaded with a plurality of toner cartridges 131 for black toner and color toner. In addition to an area 1510, a plurality of operation buttons 1520a, 1520b, 1520c, and 1520d as software keys, and a monochrome copy button 6540 and a color copy button 6550 as software keys functioning as function execution buttons, toner remaining amount information is displayed. A button 6560 is displayed.

The toner remaining amount information display button 6560 is displayed with a width larger than that of the monochrome copy button 6540 and the color copy button 6550 and smaller than the width of the monochrome copy button 6540 and the color copy button 6550 arranged side by side. is displayed.

In the sixth embodiment, information about the remaining amount of toner in the toner cartridge 131 is displayed by the user's touch operation of the remaining amount of toner information display button 6560 by the control unit 100 .

(Example 1)
In the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 27, when the user touches a remaining amount of toner information display button 6560 on the display unit 150, a monochrome copy button 6540 and a color copy button 6550 are displayed. Toner remaining amount detailed information 6570 is displayed so as to cover the monochrome copy button 6540 and the color copy button 6550 .

In the toner remaining amount detailed information 6570, an image indicating the toner remaining amount of each of the black, cyan, magenta, and yellow toner cartridges 131 mounted in the image forming apparatus 1 is displayed.

In the display mode generation unit 190, the remaining toner amount determination unit 180 determines the amount of toner remaining in each of the black, cyan, magenta, and yellow toner cartridges 131 detected by the remaining toner amount detection unit 170. An image representing the toner remaining amount of each color displayed in the toner remaining amount detailed information 6570 is generated according to the determination result of the toner remaining amount of each color.

In this way, by displaying the remaining toner amount detailed information 6570 on the display unit 150 so as to cover the monochrome copy button 6540 and the color copy button 6550, the toner cartridge 131 can be displayed before the user performs a copy operation. You can check the remaining amount of toner for each color.

(Example 2)
In the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 28, when the user touches a remaining amount of toner information display button 6560 on the display unit 150, near where a monochrome copy button 6540 and a color copy button 6550 are displayed, Detailed toner remaining amount information 6570 is displayed so as not to overlap the monochrome copy button 6540 and the color copy button 6550 .

In this way, by displaying the remaining toner detailed information 6570 on the display unit 150 so as not to overlap the monochrome copy button 6540 and the color copy button 6550, the user can check the remaining toner amount of each color in the toner cartridge 131. Copy operation can be performed while confirming.

With the configuration as described above, according to the sixth embodiment, in the image forming apparatus 1, in addition to the monochrome copy button 6540 and the color copy button 6550, the remaining toner amount information display button 6560 is added to the display unit 150. By touching the remaining toner information display button 6560 to display the remaining toner detailed information 6570, the user can easily check the remaining toner amount of each color when performing a copy operation. can do.

As described above, the present invention is not limited to the examples and embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. It is clear that a person skilled in the art can conceive of various modifications or modifications within the scope of the claims. Embodiments obtained by combining technical means are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

1 Image forming apparatus 100 Control unit 131 Toner cartridge (toner container)
133 Intermediate hopper (toner transport path)
135 developing device 140 operating unit (display device)
150 Display unit 170 Remaining toner amount detection unit 180 Remaining toner amount determination unit 190 Display mode generation unit 1501 Display screen 1530 Copy button 1531 Text display area 1531a Text 1532, 3543, 3553, 4543, 4553, 5551 Image display areas 1532a, 3543a , 3553a, 4553a, 5551a Remaining amount of toner images 2530, 2531 Buttons for copying 2532, 3542, 3552, 4552, 5552 Icons 3540, 3541, 4540, 5540, 6540 Buttons for monochrome copying 3550, 3551, 4550, 4551, 5550, 6550 Color copy button 6560 Toner level information display button 6570 Toner level detailed information

Claims (15)

a function execution button for instructing execution of a function of the image forming apparatus;
a display unit capable of displaying operation buttons including the function execution button;
a control unit that operably displays the function execution button on the display unit;
a toner remaining amount detection unit that detects the amount of toner remaining in a toner storage container that stores replenishment toner used in the image forming apparatus;
a toner remaining amount determination unit that determines the remaining toner amount based on the detection result of the toner remaining amount detection unit;
with
The control unit
changing the display mode of the function execution button according to the determination result of the toner remaining amount determining unit ;
Displaying the number of printable sheets corresponding to the remaining amount of toner in the toner storage container on the function execution button
A display device characterized by: 2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit calculates the number of printable sheets based on an average print rate of printed matter printed so far. a function execution button for instructing execution of a function of the image forming apparatus;
a display unit capable of displaying operation buttons including the function execution button;
a control unit that operably displays the function execution button on the display unit;
a toner remaining amount detection unit that detects the amount of toner remaining in a toner storage container that stores replenishment toner used in the image forming apparatus;
a toner remaining amount determination unit that determines the remaining toner amount based on the detection result of the toner remaining amount detection unit;
with
The control unit
changing the display mode of the function execution button according to the determination result of the toner remaining amount determining unit;
Displaying an image of the remaining amount of toner to be displayed on the function execution button
A display device characterized by: a function execution button for instructing execution of a function of the image forming apparatus;
a display unit capable of displaying operation buttons including the function execution button;
a control unit that operably displays the function execution button on the display unit;
a toner remaining amount detection unit that detects the amount of toner remaining in a toner storage container that stores replenishment toner used in the image forming apparatus;
a toner remaining amount determination unit that determines the remaining toner amount based on the detection result of the toner remaining amount detection unit;
with
The control unit
changing the display mode of the function execution button according to the determination result of the toner remaining amount determining unit;
When printing is performed with the toner container empty, the shape and/or color of the function execution button is changed.
A display device characterized by: 5. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the control unit displays the function execution button in the largest size among operation buttons displayed in the display unit. 5. The display according to claim 1, wherein the control unit displays the function execution button at the same position on the display unit even when the function mode of the image forming apparatus is switched. Device. The display unit is provided in the image forming apparatus,
2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the function execution button is a software key displayed on the display unit. The display unit is provided in a terminal device for instructing a job to the image forming apparatus,
2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein said function execution button is a software key displayed on a display screen of a printer driver displayed on said display unit. The display unit displays a monochrome copy button and a color copy button as the function execution buttons,
When printing is performed with the black toner container empty, or when the remaining amount of toner in the black toner container is less than a predetermined amount, the controller controls the black toner container for monochrome copying. 5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the display modes of the buttons and the color copy buttons are similarly changed. The display unit displays a monochrome copy button and a color copy button as the function execution buttons,
When printing is performed with the color toner storage container empty, or when the remaining amount of toner in the color toner storage container is less than a predetermined amount, the control unit controls the color copying toner container. 5. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the display mode of the buttons is changed. a function execution button for instructing execution of a function of the image forming apparatus;
a display unit capable of displaying operation buttons including the function execution button;
a control unit that operably displays the function execution button on the display unit;
a toner remaining amount detection unit that detects the amount of toner remaining in a toner storage container that stores replenishment toner used in the image forming apparatus;
a toner remaining amount determination unit that determines the remaining toner amount based on the detection result of the toner remaining amount detection unit;
with
The display unit displays a color copy button as the function execution button,
The control unit
changing the display mode of the function execution button according to the determination result of the toner remaining amount determining unit;
As the display mode of the color copy button, information on the remaining amount of toner in the color toner container having the least remaining amount of toner among the color toner containers installed is displayed in a color corresponding to the color toner. A display device characterized by changing the color of a color copy button and/or notifying with character information. a function execution button for instructing execution of a function of the image forming apparatus;
a display unit capable of displaying operation buttons including the function execution button;
a control unit that operably displays the function execution button on the display unit;
a toner remaining amount detection unit that detects the amount of toner remaining in a toner storage container that stores replenishment toner used in the image forming apparatus;
a toner remaining amount determination unit that determines the remaining toner amount based on the detection result of the toner remaining amount detection unit;
with
The control unit
changing the display mode of the function execution button according to the determination result of the toner remaining amount determining unit;
A display device, wherein a toner remaining amount information display section for displaying toner remaining amount information in the toner container is displayed in a display area near the function execution button of the display section. The display unit displays a monochrome copy button and a color copy button as the function execution buttons,
The control unit displays the remaining toner amount information display unit so that the width of the monochrome copy button and the color copy button is larger than that of the monochrome copy button, and the monochrome copy button and the color copy button are arranged side by side. 13. The display device according to claim 12 , wherein the display is performed in a size smaller than the width. The display unit displays a toner remaining amount information display button as the function execution button,
13. The display device according to claim 12 , wherein detailed information is displayed on the function execution button by touching the remaining toner information display button. a developing device that supplies toner to a photosensitive drum; a toner storage container that stores replenishment toner; a toner conveying path that supplies the toner supplied from the toner storage container to the developing device; 15. An image forming apparatus for controlling supply of toner to the developing device, comprising the display device according to claim 1.

Images