JP2000092254A - Control method for facsimile equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable the effect of power saving function by adopting a configuration such that when a power saving mode is started, a sub CPU starts a prescribed timer and the sub CPU releases the power saving mode when the timer finishes its operation. SOLUTION: Group facsimile equipment consists of a main body device FX, a power saving control section PP that controls release of the power saving mode, and a power supply changeover device PS. A CPU 21 of the power saving control section PP configures a sub CPU in the group facsimile equipment to control the operation of the power saving control section PP. When the power saving mode is started, the sub CPU 21 starts a prescribed timer and releases the power saving mode when the timer finishes its operation. Furthermore, a main CPU 1 outputs a control signal in response to a time up to start of a time designation communication in a standby state to the sub CPU 21 at start of the power saving mode and the sub CPU 21 sets a time of the timer in response to the control signal received from the main CPU 1.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a main CP for controlling the operation of a device and controlling the transition to a power saving mode.
The present invention relates to a control method of a facsimile apparatus having a sub CPU for canceling a power saving mode when the operation state of a predetermined device is monitored in a power saving mode state and a power saving release event is detected in the power saving mode state.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, many facsimile apparatuses have a so-called power saving function (power saving mode) for reducing power consumption during standby. In the power saving function, for example, when the transmission / reception operation is not continuously performed for a certain period of time or longer, an element related to event detection for releasing the power saving mode (for example, operation detection of a power saving release key on the operation display unit) Circuit, and an incoming detection circuit of a network control device, etc.) to shut off power to reduce power consumption.

When the power saving release key on the operation display unit is operated or the network controller detects an incoming call,
The power saving mode is canceled, the power of the main unit is turned on, and the main unit is started.

Further, the main unit is provided with a main CPU for processing the operation control and shifting to the power saving mode, and a sub CPU for controlling release of the power saving mode.

[0005]

However, such a conventional apparatus has the following disadvantages.

That is, the facsimile apparatus has an operation mode such as a time-designated transmission mode for designating a transmission time, a time-designated confidential reception mode for designating a reception start time, and the like. If set, the sub CPU cannot perform time management processing, so that the main CPU does not shift to the power saving mode and the effect of the power saving function is lost.

In order to solve this problem, a clock circuit may be provided on the sub CPU side to cancel the power saving mode immediately before the time designation transmission executed by the main CPU. The structure becomes complicated, and the problem that the apparatus cost increases arises. Also, the main CP
It is conceivable that the clock circuit used in U is shared by the sub CPU, but the clock circuit is used by the main CPU that is turned off during the power saving mode and the sub CPU that is turned on even during the power saving mode. It is necessary to add an element such as a bus buffer in order to share the device, the device configuration becomes complicated, and in this case, there is a problem that the device cost increases.

The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and has as its object to provide a method of controlling a facsimile apparatus which can improve the effect of a power saving function.

[0009]

According to the present invention, there is provided a main CPU for controlling the operation of the apparatus and controlling the transition to a power saving mode, and in a power saving mode state, monitoring the operation state of a predetermined device to save power. In the control method for a facsimile apparatus including a sub CPU that releases a power saving mode when a release event is detected, the sub CPU starts a predetermined timer when the power saving mode is started, and operates when the timer starts. Is completed, the power saving mode is released. The main CPU outputs a control signal to the sub CPU according to a time until the start of the standby time designation communication operation when the power saving mode is started, and the sub CPU transmits the control signal from the main CPU to the sub CPU. The time of the timer is set according to the received control signal.

[0010] Further, when the time measurement of the timer ends and the power saving mode is released, the sub CPU outputs a status signal to that effect to the main CPU when the power saving mode is released. Also, the main CPU
Starts the monitoring operation for shifting to the power saving mode when the status signal is output from the sub CPU at startup, while the status signal is not output from the sub CPU at startup. In this case, a predetermined initialization process is performed.

[0011]

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG.
An embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

FIG. 1 shows a group 3 facsimile apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

This group 3 facsimile apparatus has a main unit FX which realizes a group 3 facsimile transmission function.
The power saving control unit PP controls the release of the power saving mode, and the power supply switching unit PS for supplying power generated from the power supply device PU to the power saving control unit PP and the main unit FX.

In the main unit FX, a CPU (central processing unit) 1 is a main C of this group 3 facsimile machine.
A control processing of each part of the main unit FX; and
The facsimile transmission control procedure is performed.
An M (read only memory) 2 is for storing a control processing program executed by the CPU 1 and various data required when executing the processing program, and is a RAM (random access memory). 3 is
It is for configuring a work area of the CPU 1, and
The clock circuit 4 is for outputting current time information.

The scanner 5 is for reading an original image at a predetermined resolution, the plotter 6 is for recording and outputting an image at a predetermined resolution, and the operation display unit 7 is a facsimile apparatus. To operate,
It consists of various operation keys and various indicators.

The encoding / decoding unit 8 encodes and compresses the image signal and decodes the encoded and compressed image information into the original image signal.
This is for storing a large number of image information in a coded and compressed state.

The group 3 facsimile modem 10 implements a group 3 facsimile modem function, and exchanges transmission procedure signals (a low-speed modem function (V.21 modem)) and mainly exchanges image information. High-speed modem function (V.17 modem,
V. 34 modem, V.34. 29 modem, V.29. 27ter modem etc.).

The network control device 11 is for connecting the main unit FX to a public telephone line network and has an automatic transmission / reception function.

The input / output circuit 12 sends a signal to the power saving control unit PP.
A power-saving mode start signal SC1 is output.

The system control unit 1, the system memory 2, the parameter memory 3, the clock circuit 4, the scanner 5, the plotter 6, the operation display unit 7, the encoding / decoding unit 8, the image storage device 9, the group 3 facsimile modem 10, the network control device 11, and the input / output circuit 11
2, and the exchange of data between these elements is mainly performed via the internal bus 12.

Data exchange between the network controller 11 and the group 3 facsimile modem 10 is directly performed.

In the power saving control section PP, the CPU 21
Is used to control the operation of the power saving control unit PP.
Make U. The ROM 22 stores a processing program executed by the CPU 21 and various data, and the RAM 23 configures a work collar of the CPU 21.

The programmable timer circuit 24 is a timer circuit capable of externally setting a clock value. The input / output circuit 25 includes a start signal SC1 output from the input / output circuit 12 of the main unit FX, an operation display unit 7, Signal CC1 output when the power saving mode release key is operated from
Further, it is for inputting a signal CC2 output from the network control device 11 when an incoming call is detected and outputting a signal for controlling the operation of the power supply switching device PS.

These CPU 21, ROM 22, RAM
23, a programmable timer circuit 24, and an input / output circuit 25 are connected to an internal bus 26, and data exchange between these elements is executed via the internal bus 26.

The power saving control section PP can be constituted by a so-called one-chip computer device.

The power supply switching device PS includes a power supply device PU.
From the power output from the power supply SS1 to be supplied to the power saving control unit PP, the elements of the main unit FX that need to operate even in the power saving mode (the operation detection circuit of the power saving mode release key of the operation display unit 7, And a power supply SS2 applied to the incoming call detection circuit of the network control device 11) and a power supply SS3 which is cut off during the power saving mode.
This is for switching the power supply SS3 on and off.

With the above configuration, the CPU 1 of the main unit FX
Monitors that the condition for shifting to the power saving mode is satisfied, and when the condition for shifting to the power saving mode is satisfied, a predetermined time T1 (for example, 3) from when the shifting condition is satisfied.
Within 0 minutes), it is checked whether a designated time such as a designated time transmission mode or a designated time confidential reception mode has been set.

When the time designation is set within a predetermined time T1 after the transition condition is satisfied,
It does not shift to the power saving mode.

On the other hand, if the time designation is not set within a predetermined time T1 after the transition condition is satisfied,
In order to shift to the power saving mode, the start signal SC1 is turned on.

As described above, when the start signal SC1 is turned on, the power saving control unit PP turns off the power supply SS3 by the power supply switching device PS and sets the main unit FX to the power saving state. Further, in this state, the operation detection circuit of the power saving mode release key of the operation display unit 7 driven by the power supply SS2 and the incoming call detection circuit of the network control device 11 are each in a state capable of detecting the operation. .

In the power saving control section PP, a time value corresponding to the time T1 is set in the programmable timer circuit 24, and the programmable timer circuit 24 is started.
In this state, the power saving control unit PP determines whether the signal CC1 is turned on by operating the power saving mode release key of the operation display unit 8, or whether the signal CC2 is turned on when the network controller 11 detects an incoming call. Alternatively, the programmable timer circuit 24
Watch out for timeouts.

For example, when the network controller 11 detects an incoming call and the signal CC2 is turned on, the power saving control unit PP
The power supply switching device PS turns on the power supply SS3 to the main unit FX.

As a result, the power saving mode of the main unit FX is released, and the main unit FX starts its operation from the initialization processing at the time of power-on. In this case, the main unit FX executes a communication operation upon detection of an incoming call.

When the programmable timer circuit 24 of the power saving control unit PP times out in the power saving mode, the power saving control unit PP operates the power switching device PS.
To turn on the power supply SS3 to the main unit FX.

As a result, the power saving mode of the main unit FX is released, and the main unit FX starts its operation from the initialization process at power-on, and in this case, shifts to the normal standby state.

Here, when the condition for shifting the main unit FX to the power saving mode is satisfied again, the time-designated transmission mode and the time-designated confidentiality are set within a predetermined time T1 from the time when the shift condition is satisfied, as described above. It is checked whether or not the designated time of the reception mode has been set. If the designated time has not been set, the activation signal SC1 is turned on to shift to the power saving mode.

Therefore, when the main unit FX is in the standby state for a long period of time, the main unit FX shifts to the power saving mode, and during the power saving mode, the time T is almost equal to T.
It is restarted every time.

When the designated time in the time-specified transmission mode or the time-specified confidential reception mode is set, the main unit FX is restarted immediately before the designated time (before the maximum time T1). Since the mode is not shifted to the power saving mode, the operation in the time-designated transmission mode or the time-designated confidential reception mode designated by the user can be executed.

FIG. 2 shows the CPU of the main unit FX in this case.
1 illustrates an example of a process in a power saving mode executed by the power saving mode 1;

First, the CPU 1 monitors whether the condition for shifting to the power saving mode is satisfied (NO in the judgment 101).
Loop), the condition 1 for shifting to the power saving mode is satisfied and the determination 1 is made.
01 is YES, the predetermined time T from that time
It is checked whether there is a designated time in the time-specified transmission mode or the time-specified confidential reception mode within 1 (for example, 30 minutes) (decision 102).

When the result of the determination 102 is YES, the process returns to the determination 101 without shifting to the power saving mode. When the result of the determination 102 is NO, the start signal SC1 output to the power saving control unit PP is turned on to switch to the power saving mode (process 103), and the process returns to the determination 101.

The CPU 21 of the power saving control unit PP in this case
FIG. 3 shows an example of the processing shown in FIG.

The CPU 21 monitors that the activation signal SC1 is turned on (NO loop of the judgment 201). When the CPU 1 of the main body device FX turns on the activation signal SC1 to shift to the power saving mode, the result of the determination 201 is Y
It becomes ES, and thereby the CPU 21 causes the power supply switching device PS to cut off the power supply SS3 (process 202).

Next, the timer value corresponding to the time T1 is set in the programmable timer circuit 24, and the timer operation of the programmable timer circuit 24 is started (step 20).
3) In this state, the power saving mode release key of the operation display unit 8 is operated to turn on the signal CC1, or the network controller 1
1 detects an incoming call and the signal CC2 turns on, or
It monitors whether the programmable timer circuit 24 times out (NO loop of the determinations 204, 205, 206).

Then, when the power saving mode release key of the operation display section 8 is operated to turn on the signal CC1 and the result of the judgment 204 becomes YES, the power supply switching device PS turns on the power supply S.
S3 is turned on (process 207), and the main unit FX is activated.

When the network controller 11 detects an incoming call and the signal CC2 is turned on and the result of the judgment 205 becomes YES,
The processing shifts to processing 207, where the power supply S
S3 is turned on to activate the main unit FX.

Alternatively, the programmable timer circuit 24
Is timed out, and if the result of the judgment 206 is YES, the process shifts to a process 207, where the power source SS3 is turned on by the power source switching device PS and the main unit FX is started.

As described above, in this embodiment, even when the operation of the time-specified transmission mode or the time-specified confidential reception mode is specified for the main unit FX, the main unit FX can be set to the power-saving state, and the specified operation can be performed. Since the time management operation such as the time-designated transmission mode and the time-designated confidential reception mode can be executed, the power saving function can be effectively operated.

FIG. 4 shows an example of a group 3 facsimile apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. In the figure, the same parts as those in FIG. 1 and corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

In FIG. 5, the input / output circuit 12 of the main unit FX outputs a start signal SC1 for the power saving mode and a timer setting signal SC2 to the input / output circuit 25 of the power saving control unit PP.

When the activation signal SC1 is turned on, the CPU 21 of the power saving control unit PP sets a timer value corresponding to the value of the timer setting signal SC2 in the programmable timer circuit 24, and starts the programmable timer circuit 24.

With the above configuration, the CPU 1 of the main unit FX
Monitors that the transition condition to the power saving mode is satisfied, and when the transition condition to the power saving mode is satisfied, the time management operation mode of the time-specified transmission mode and the time-specified confidential reception mode is set at that time. To see if
If it is set, the activation signal SC1 is turned on with a value corresponding to the time from when the transition condition is satisfied to the designated time set in the timer setting signal SC2. If the time management operation mode is not set at that time, the CPU 1 sets the timer setting signal SC2 to a Null (zero) value.

As described above, when the start signal SC1 is turned on, the power saving control section PP turns off the power supply SS3 by the power supply switching device PS and sets the main unit FX to the power saving state. Further, in this state, the operation detection circuit of the power saving mode release key of the operation display unit 7 driven by the power supply SS2 and the incoming call detection circuit of the network control device 11 are each in a state capable of detecting the operation. .

Further, the power saving control section PP sets a time value corresponding to the timer setting signal SC2 input at that time in the programmable timer circuit 24 and starts the programmable timer circuit 24. Note that the timer setting signal S
When the value of C2 is a Null value, the programmable timer circuit 24 does not start.

In this state, the power saving control section PP operates the power saving mode release key of the operation display section 8 to turn on the signal CC1, or the network control device 11 detects an incoming call and turns on the signal CC2. Or the timeout of the programmable timer circuit 24 is monitored.

For example, when the network controller 11 detects an incoming call and the signal CC2 is turned on, the power saving control unit PP
The power supply switching device PS turns on the power supply SS3 to the main unit FX.

As a result, the power saving mode of the main unit FX is released, and the main unit FX starts its operation from the initialization process at the time of turning on the power. In this case, the main unit FX executes the communication operation upon detection of an incoming call.

When the programmable timer circuit 24 of the power-saving control unit PP times out in the power-saving mode, the power-saving control unit PP sets the power switching device PS
To turn on the power supply SS3 to the main unit FX.

As a result, the power saving mode of the main unit FX is released, and the main unit FX starts its operation from the initialization process when the power is turned on. In this case, the main unit FX shifts to a normal standby state.

Therefore, when the designated time of the time-designated transmission mode or the time-designated confidential reception mode is set, the main unit FX is restarted immediately before the designated time, so that the time designated by the user is set. The operation of the designated transmission mode or the time designated confidential reception mode can be executed.

FIG. 5 shows the CPU of the main unit FX in this case.
1 illustrates an example of a process in a power saving mode executed by the power saving mode 1;

First, the CPU 1 monitors whether the condition for shifting to the power saving mode is satisfied (NO in decision 301).
Loop), the condition 1 for shifting to the power saving mode is satisfied and the determination 1 is made.
When the result of 01 is YES, it is checked whether or not a time management operation such as a time-designated transmission mode or a time-designated confidential reception mode is set at that time (decision 302).

When the result of the judgment 302 is YES, it is checked whether or not the designated time is included between the time and the time T3 (for example, 120 minutes) (decision 30).
4) If the result of the determination 304 is NO, it is checked whether or not the designated time is included between the time and the time T2 (for example, 60 minutes) (determination 305).
When the result of the above is NO, the time T2
It is checked whether the specified time is included before (for example, 30 minutes) (determination 306).

When the result of the determination 306 is YES, the process returns to the determination 301 without shifting to the power saving mode.

If the result of the determination 306 is NO, in order to shift to the power saving mode, the value corresponding to the time T1 is set in the timer setting signal SC2 (process 307), and the power saving control unit PP Start signal SC1 output to
Is turned on (process 308), and the process returns to the determination 301.

When the result of the determination 305 is NO, the process proceeds to the process 308 with the value corresponding to the time T2 set in the timer setting signal SC2 (process 309).
The activation signal SC1 output to the power saving control unit PP is turned on, and the process returns to the determination 301.

If the result of determination 304 is NO, the process proceeds to process 308 with the value corresponding to the time T3 set in the timer setting signal SC2 (process 310),
The activation signal SC1 output to the power saving control unit PP is turned on, and the process returns to the determination 301.

CPU 21 of power saving control section PP in this case
FIG. 6 shows an example of the processing shown in FIG.

The CPU 21 monitors that the activation signal SC1 is turned on (NO loop of the judgment 401). When the CPU 1 of the main unit FX turns on the activation signal SC1 to shift to the power saving mode, the result of the determination 401 is Y
It becomes ES, whereby the CPU 21 causes the power supply switching device PS to cut off the power supply SS3 (process 402).

Next, the timer value corresponding to the value of the timer setting signal SC2 input at that time is set in the programmable timer circuit 24, and
Is started (process 403), and in this state, the power saving mode release key of the operation display unit 8 is operated and the signal C is output.
It is monitored whether C1 is turned on, the network controller 11 detects an incoming call, the signal CC2 is turned on, or the programmable timer circuit 24 times out (decision 40).
4,405,406 NO loop).

When the power saving mode release key of the operation display section 8 is operated to turn on the signal CC1 and the result of the determination 404 becomes YES, the power supply switching device PS
S3 is turned on (process 407), and the main unit FX is activated.

When the network controller 11 detects an incoming call and turns on the signal CC2 and the result of the judgment 405 becomes YES,
The processing shifts to step 407, where the power supply S
S3 is turned on to activate the main unit FX.

Alternatively, the programmable timer circuit 24
Is timed out, and if the result of the judgment 406 is YES, the process proceeds to step 407, where the power source SS3 is turned on by the power source switching device PS and the main unit FX is started.

In the process 403, if the value of the timer setting signal SC2 is Null, "0" is set to the time count of the programmable timer circuit 24. 24, the programmable timer circuit 24
Does not perform the timing operation. That is, in this case, the programmable timer circuit 24 does not time out.

Here, in the case of the present embodiment, if the time from the satisfaction of the condition for shifting to the power saving mode to the designated time of the time management operation is long, the timer setting signal SC2 is used. Is set to a value corresponding to the maximum time T3, and the first power saving mode is canceled after the time T3.

When the condition for shifting to the power saving mode is satisfied again at the time of restart in this case, a value corresponding to the time from that time to the designated time is set in the timer setting signal SC2. The power saving mode is released according to the set time, and the time management operation of the main unit FX is properly performed.

As described above, in the present embodiment, even when the operation of the time-specified transmission mode or the time-specified confidential reception mode is specified for the main unit FX, the main unit FX can be set to the power saving state and the specified operation can be performed. Since the time management operation such as the time-designated transmission mode and the time-designated confidential reception mode can be executed, the power saving function can be effectively operated.

FIG. 7 shows an example of a group 3 facsimile apparatus according to still another embodiment of the present invention. In the figure, the same parts as those in FIG. 1 and corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

In the figure, a status signal SC3 notifying that the power saving mode has been released due to the timeout of the programmable timer circuit 24 is output from the input / output unit 25 of the power saving control unit PP. , The input / output circuit 12 of the main unit FX.

With the above configuration, the CPU 1 of the main unit FX
Monitors that the condition for shifting to the power saving mode is satisfied, and when the condition for shifting to the power saving mode is satisfied, a predetermined time T1 (for example, 3) from when the shifting condition is satisfied.
Within 0 minutes), it is checked whether a designated time such as a designated time transmission mode or a designated time confidential reception mode has been set.

When the time designation is set within a predetermined time T1 after the transition condition is satisfied,
It does not shift to the power saving mode.

On the other hand, if the time designation is not set within a predetermined time T1 after the transition condition is satisfied,
In order to shift to the power saving mode, the start signal SC1 is turned on.

When the start signal SC1 is turned on in this way, the power saving control unit PP turns off the power supply SS3 by the power switching device PS and sets the main unit FX to the power saving state. Further, in this state, the operation detection circuit of the power saving mode release key of the operation display unit 7 driven by the power supply SS2 and the incoming call detection circuit of the network control device 11 are each in a state capable of detecting the operation. .

Further, the power saving control section PP sets a time value corresponding to the time T1 in the programmable timer circuit 24 and starts the programmable timer circuit 24.
In this state, the power saving control unit PP determines whether the signal CC1 is turned on by operating the power saving mode release key of the operation display unit 8, or whether the signal CC2 is turned on when the network controller 11 detects an incoming call. Alternatively, the programmable timer circuit 24
Watch out for timeouts.

For example, when the network controller 11 detects an incoming call and the signal CC2 is turned on, the power saving control unit PP
The power supply switching device PS turns on the power supply SS3 to the main unit FX.

As a result, the power saving mode of the main unit FX is released, and the main unit FX starts its operation from the initialization process at the time of turning on the power. In this case, the main unit FX executes the communication operation upon detection of an incoming call.

When the programmable timer circuit 24 of the power saving control unit PP times out in the power saving mode, the power saving control unit PP outputs the status signal S.
With C3 turned on, power supply SS3 is applied to main unit FX by power supply switching device PS.

As a result, the main unit FX is started. In this case, since the status signal SC3 is turned on, the main unit FX is set at the time before executing the normal initialization process. Within a predetermined time T1, it is checked whether the designated time of the time-designated transmission mode or the time-designated confidential reception mode has been set. If the time designation has not been set, the system is activated to shift to the power saving mode. The signal SC1 is turned on, and thereafter, an initialization process is performed.

Therefore, when the main unit FX is in the standby state for a long time, the main unit FX shifts to the power saving mode, and during the power saving mode, the time T is almost equal to T.
It is restarted every time, and immediately after the restart, it shifts to the power saving mode.

If the designated time in the time-designated transmission mode or the time-designated confidential reception mode is set, the main unit FX is restarted immediately before the designated time (before the maximum time T1). Since the mode is not shifted to the power saving mode, the operation in the time-designated transmission mode or the time-designated confidential reception mode designated by the user can be executed.

In this case, when there is no designated time within the time T1 when the system is restarted during the power saving mode, the mode returns to the power saving mode immediately after the startup, so that the power saving effect is further enhanced. .

FIG. 8 shows the CPU of the main unit FX in this case.
1 shows an example of a process at the time of startup executed by the first embodiment. In addition,
Also in this case, the CPU 1 of the main unit FX executes the same power saving mode processing as in FIG.

First, the CPU 1 inputs the status signal SC3 of the input / output circuit 12, and checks whether or not the status signal SC3 is on (decision 501). Judgment 50
If the result of Step 1 is YES, it is checked whether or not there is a designated time in the time-designated transmission mode or the time-designated confidential reception mode within a predetermined time T1 from that time (decision 50).
2).

If the result of this determination 502 is NO, the power saving control unit PP
Is turned on (process 503).
A normal initialization process is executed (process 504), and subsequent processes are executed.

If the result of determination 502 is YES, the process does not shift to the power saving mode, shifts to process 504, executes a normal initialization process, and shifts to the subsequent processes.

When the result of the judgment 501 is NO, the process shifts to a process 504 to execute a normal initialization process, and shifts to the subsequent processes.

CPU 21 of power saving control unit PP in this case
FIG. 9 shows an example of the processing shown in FIG.

The CPU 21 monitors that the activation signal SC1 is turned on (NO loop of the judgment 601). When CPU1 of main unit FX turns on start signal SC1 to shift to the power saving mode, the result of determination 601 is YE
S, whereby the CPU 21 sets the power switching device P
The power supply SS3 is shut off by S (process 602).

Next, the timer value corresponding to the time T1 is set in the programmable timer circuit 24, and the timer operation of the programmable timer circuit 24 is started (step 60).
3) In this state, the power saving mode release key of the operation display unit 8 is operated to turn on the signal CC1, or the network controller 1
1 detects an incoming call and the signal CC2 turns on, or
It monitors whether the programmable timer circuit 24 times out (NO loop of the judgments 604, 605, 606).

When the programmable timer circuit 24 times out and the result of the judgment 606 becomes YES,
The status signal SC3 is turned on (process 607), and the power supply SS3 is turned on by the power switching device PS (process 60).
8) Activate the main unit FX.

When the power saving mode release key of the operation display section 8 is operated and the signal CC1 is turned on and the result of the judgment 604 is YES, the processing shifts to processing 607 and the power supply switching device PS turns on the power supply SS3. Then, the main unit FX is started.

When the network controller 11 detects an incoming call and turns on the signal CC2 and the result of the judgment 605 is YES,
The processing shifts to processing 607, where the power supply S
S3 is turned on to activate the main unit FX.

As described above, in the present embodiment, even when the operation of the time-specified transmission mode or the time-specified confidential reception mode is specified for the main unit FX, the main unit FX can be set to the power saving state, and the specified operation can be performed. Since the time management operation such as the time-designated transmission mode and the time-designated confidential reception mode can be executed, the power saving function can be effectively operated. Also, in this case, if the designated time is not found within the time T1 when restarting during the power saving mode,
Since the mode returns to the power saving mode immediately after the startup, the power saving effect is further enhanced.

FIG. 10 shows an example of a group 3 facsimile apparatus according to still another embodiment of the present invention.
In the figure, the same parts as those in FIG. 1 and corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

In FIG. 15, the input / output circuit 12 of the main unit FX outputs a power-saving mode start signal SC1 and a timer setting signal SC2 to the input / output circuit 25 of the power-saving control unit PP.

The input / output unit 25 of the power saving control unit PP sets the power saving mode to the programmable timer circuit 24.
A status signal SC3 for notifying that the connection has been canceled due to the timeout of the signal is output to the input / output circuit 12 of the main unit FX.

With the above configuration, the CPU 1 of the main unit FX
Monitors that the transition condition to the power saving mode is satisfied, and when the transition condition to the power saving mode is satisfied, the time management operation mode of the time-specified transmission mode and the time-specified confidential reception mode is set at that time. To see if
If it is set, the activation signal SC1 is turned on with a value corresponding to the time from when the transition condition is satisfied to the designated time set in the timer setting signal SC2. If the time management operation mode is not set at that time, the CPU 1 sets the timer setting signal SC2 to a Null (zero) value.

As described above, when the activation signal SC1 is turned on, the power saving control unit PP turns off the power supply SS3 by the power supply switching device PS and sets the main unit FX to the power saving state. Further, in this state, the operation detection circuit of the power saving mode release key of the operation display unit 7 driven by the power supply SS2 and the incoming call detection circuit of the network control device 11 are each in a state capable of detecting the operation. .

Further, the power saving control section PP sets a time value corresponding to the timer setting signal SC2 input at that time in the programmable timer circuit 24, and starts the programmable timer circuit 24. Note that the timer setting signal S
When the value of C2 is a Null value, the programmable timer circuit 24 does not start.

In this state, the power saving control unit PP operates the power saving mode release key of the operation display unit 8 to turn on the signal CC1, or the network control unit 11 detects an incoming call and turns on the signal CC2. Or the timeout of the programmable timer circuit 24 is monitored.

For example, when the network controller 11 detects an incoming call and the signal CC2 is turned on, the power saving control unit PP
The power supply switching device PS turns on the power supply SS3 to the main unit FX.

As a result, the power saving mode of the main unit FX is released, and the main unit FX starts the operation from the initialization process at the time of power-on. In this case, the main unit FX executes the communication operation upon detection of an incoming call.

If the programmable timer circuit 24 of the power saving control unit PP times out in the power saving mode, the power saving control unit PP outputs the status signal S.
With C3 turned on, power supply SS3 is applied to main unit FX by power supply switching device PS.

As a result, the main unit FX is started. In this case, since the status signal SC3 is turned on, the main unit FX starts at a stage before executing the normal initialization processing. Except when the time from the time to the specified time is very short, the start signal is used to shift to the power saving mode with the value corresponding to the time from the start to the specified time set in the timer setting signal SC2. SC1 is turned on, and thereafter, initialization processing is executed.

When the status signal SC3 is turned on at the time of startup and the time from the startup to the designated time is very short, the process does not shift to the power saving mode and the normal initialization processing is executed. Then, the processing shifts to the subsequent processing.

Therefore, when the designated time of the time-designated transmission mode or the time-designated confidential reception mode is set, the main unit FX is restarted immediately before the designated time, so that the time designated by the user is set. The operation of the designated transmission mode or the time designated confidential reception mode can be executed.

FIG. 11 shows a case where the CP of the main unit FX is used in this case.
An example of a process performed by U1 at the time of startup is shown. Also in this case, the CPU 1 of the main unit FX executes the same power saving mode processing as that shown in FIG.

First, the CPU 1 inputs the status signal SC3 of the input / output circuit 12, and checks whether the status signal SC3 is turned on (decision 701). Judgment 70
If the result of Step 1 is YES, it is checked whether or not a time management operation such as a time-designated transmission mode or a time-designated confidential reception mode is set at that time (decision 702).

When the result of the judgment 702 is YES, it is checked whether or not the specified time is included between the time and the time T3 (for example, 120 minutes) (the judgment 70).
3) If the result of the judgment 703 is NO, it is checked whether or not the specified time is included between the time and the time T2 (for example, 60 minutes) (judgment 704), and the judgment 704 is made.
When the result of the above is NO, the time T2
It is checked whether the designated time is included before (for example, 30 minutes) (determination 705).

Here, when the result of the judgment 705 is NO, in order to shift to the power saving mode, the value corresponding to the time T1 is set in the timer setting signal SC2 (process 706), and the power saving control unit Start signal SC output to PP
1 is turned on (process 707), a normal initialization process is executed (process 708), and subsequent processes are executed.

If the result of determination 704 is NO, the process proceeds to process 707 with the value corresponding to time T2 set in timer setting signal SC2 (process 709).
The activation signal SC1 output to the power saving control unit PP is turned on, and the subsequent processing is executed.

When the result of determination 703 is NO, the process proceeds to process 707 with the value corresponding to time T3 set in timer setting signal SC2 (process 710).
The activation signal SC1 output to the power saving control unit PP is turned on, and the subsequent processing is executed.

If the status signal SC3 is not turned on at the time of startup and the result of the determination 701 is NO, the process proceeds to step 708, where normal initialization processing is executed, and subsequent processing is executed. I do.

The CPU 21 of the power saving control unit PP in this case
FIG. 12 shows an example of the processing shown in FIG.

The CPU 21 monitors that the activation signal SC1 is turned on (NO loop of the judgment 801). When the CPU 1 of the main body device FX turns on the activation signal SC1 to shift to the power saving mode, the result of the judgment 801 is Y
The state becomes ES, and thereby the CPU 21 causes the power supply switching device PS to cut off the power supply SS3 (process 802).

Next, a time value corresponding to the value of the timer setting signal SC2 input at that time is set in the programmable timer circuit 24, and
Is started (process 803), and in this state, the power saving mode release key of the operation display unit 8 is operated and the signal C
It is monitored whether C1 is turned on, the network controller 11 detects an incoming call, the signal CC2 is turned on, or the programmable timer circuit 24 times out (decision 80).
4,805,806 NO loop).

When the programmable timer circuit 24 times out and the result of decision 806 is YES,
The status signal SC3 is turned on (processing 807), and the power supply SS3 is turned on by the power supply switching device PS (processing 80).
8) Activate the main unit FX.

When the power saving mode release key of the operation display section 8 is operated and the signal CC1 is turned on, and the result of the judgment 804 is YES, the process shifts to processing 808 and the power supply switching device PS turns on the power supply SS3. Then, the main unit FX is started.

When the network controller 11 detects an incoming call and turns on the signal CC2 and the result of the judgment 805 is YES,
The processing shifts to step 808, where the power supply switching device PS
S3 is turned on to activate the main unit FX.

In the process 803, if the value of the timer setting signal SC2 is Null, "0" is set to the count value of the programmable timer circuit 24. 24, the programmable timer circuit 24
Does not perform the timing operation. That is, in this case, the programmable timer circuit 24 does not time out.

As described above, in the present embodiment, even when the operation of the time-specified transmission mode or the time-specified confidential reception mode is specified for the main body device FX, the main body device FX can be set to the power saving state, and the specified operation can be performed. Since the time management operation such as the time-designated transmission mode and the time-designated confidential reception mode can be executed, the power saving function can be effectively operated. Also, in this case, if the designated time is not found within the time T1 when restarting during the power saving mode,
Since the mode returns to the power saving mode immediately after the startup, the power saving effect is further enhanced.

In the above-described embodiment, the case where the present invention is applied to the group 3 facsimile apparatus has been described.
The present invention can be applied.

[0133]

As described above, according to the present invention,
Even when the operation of the time-specified transmission mode or the time-specified confidential reception mode is specified for the main device, the main device can be set to the power saving state, and time management such as the specified time-specified transmission mode or the time-specified confidential reception mode Since the operation can be executed, an effect is obtained that the power saving function can be effectively operated.

Further, when the power is restarted during the power saving mode, if there is no designated time within a predetermined time, the operation returns to the power saving mode immediately after the startup, so that the power saving effect is further enhanced. obtain.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a group 3 facsimile apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing in a power saving mode executed by a CPU 1 of a main body device FX.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing of a CPU 21 of the power saving control unit PP.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a group 3 facsimile apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing another example of the processing in the power saving mode executed by the CPU 1 of the main unit FX.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing another example of the processing of the CPU 21 of the power saving control unit PP.

FIG. 7 shows a group 3 according to still another embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a facsimile machine.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the CPU 1 of the main unit FX at the time of startup.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating still another example of the processing of the CPU 21 of the power saving control unit PP.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a group 3 facsimile apparatus according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing another example of the processing executed by the CPU 1 of the main unit FX at the time of startup.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing still another example of the process of the CPU 21 of the power saving control unit PP.

[Explanation of symbols]

 FX facsimile machine PP power saving control unit

Claims (4)

[Claims] 1. A main CPU for controlling operation of a device and controlling a transition to a power saving mode, and in a power saving mode state, monitoring an operation state of a predetermined device and detecting a power saving release event. In the method for controlling a facsimile apparatus having a sub CPU for canceling a mode, the sub CPU starts a predetermined timer when the power saving mode is started, and releases the power saving mode when the operation of the timer ends. A method of controlling a facsimile machine. 2. The main CPU outputs a control signal according to a time until the start of a standby time-designated communication operation to the sub CPU when the power saving mode is started. 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the time of the timer is set according to a control signal received from a main CPU. 3. The sub-CPU outputs a status signal to the main CPU when the power saving mode is released when the timer ends and the power saving mode is released. 3. The control method for a facsimile apparatus according to claim 1, wherein 4. The main CPU starts a monitoring operation for shifting to a power saving mode when the status signal is output from the sub CPU at startup, while the status signal is output at startup. 4. The control method according to claim 3, wherein a predetermined initialization process is executed when the output is not output from the sub CPU.