JP2021057864A - Information processing apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

To transmit log information speedily and efficiently without influencing a function that a user using an information processing apparatus is executing when the log information acquired by the information processing apparatus is transmitted to an information management device.SOLUTION: An information processing apparatus comprises: a log information acquisition part which acquires log information including an operation state; a log file generation part which divides the acquired log information to generate a plurality of log files; a log transmission part which transmits the log files one after another to an information management device through a network; and a stop condition determination part which determines whether transmission stop conditions to stop the information management device from transmitting the log information are met. The transmission stop conditions include a start of execution of a function accompanied by communication through a network among executable functions, and occurrence of a state associated with the execution start of the function, and when one of the transmission stop conditions is met, the transmission of the log files is stopped.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

The present invention relates to an information processing device, and more particularly to an information processing device having a function of transmitting log information recording processing contents and operating states executed by the information processing device to the information management device via a network.

Conventionally, an image forming apparatus equivalent to an information processing apparatus has been used, but in recent years, in addition to a document printing function and a duplication function, it also has a document reading (scanning) function, a facsimile function, a network connection function, and the like. A multifunctional multifunction device is used.
Since the configuration of the installed software has become complicated due to the diversification of functions, it may be difficult to identify which software has a defect when a problem such as a function stop occurs.

In today's image forming apparatus, in order to quickly solve a problem that has occurred, log information consisting of processing contents and operating states executed by the image forming apparatus is stored in a storage device such as a hard disk. ing. The contents of this stored log information are used to identify defective software and solve problems that have occurred.

Further, Patent Document 1 is an image processing device that stores an operation log output by a control firmware and automatically transfers the operation log to an external device via a network, which is fatal such as a service call. When an error occurs, a paper jam in the paper carrier, detection of a specific key input, etc. are registered in advance as transfer start conditions, and when an event corresponding to the registered transfer start conditions occurs, it is automatically external. Describes an image processing device that starts log transfer to the device and automatically stops log transfer to an external device when a trigger event for stopping the transfer occurs.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2010-287108

However, today, the amount of log information stored in the storage device of the image forming apparatus has become extremely large.
When a huge amount of log information is transferred to an external device, it takes a long time to complete the transfer of the log information, and the network bandwidth may be almost occupied.

Multi-function peripherals use network-based functions such as fax services, administrative services, network-based printing services, and file transmission services. The network is processed by transferring the above log information to an external device. If the user occupies most of the bandwidth of the above, even if the user tries to use a function using a network such as a fax service of a multifunction device, the function may not be available.

In addition, if the user is using the function using the network on the multifunction device and an event that meets the transfer start condition occurs, the user automatically starts the log transfer to the external device. The function being used may be interrupted or the processing of the function may be delayed, which causes inconvenience to the user.
When an information processing device such as an image forming device transfers a huge amount of log information to an external device, the efficiency of the image forming device or the like is as quickly as possible without affecting the functions used by the user. Often, it is desirable to transfer large amounts of log information.

Therefore, the present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and uses the information processing device when transmitting the log information acquired by the information processing device to the information management device via the network. An object of the present invention is to provide an information processing device capable of transmitting log information quickly and efficiently without affecting the function executed by the user.

The present invention uses a log information acquisition unit that acquires log information including an operating status, a log file generation unit that divides the acquired log information to generate a plurality of log files, and the log file via a network. It includes a log transmission unit that sequentially transmits log information to the information management device, a stop condition determination unit that determines whether or not a transmission stop condition that stops transmission of log information to the information management device has occurred, and a control unit. Among the executable functions, the transmission stop condition includes that the execution of the function involving communication via the network is started and that a situation related to the start of the execution of the function has occurred, and is predetermined. When the transmission permission condition occurs, the log transmission unit transmits the generated log file, and when any of the transmission stop conditions occurs, the control unit sends the log file by the log transmission unit. Provided is an information processing apparatus characterized in that the transmission of the log is stopped.

Further, a human body detection unit that detects a person existing in the vicinity of the information processing device is further provided, and the transmission stop condition includes that the human body detection unit detects a person, and the log transmission unit transmits a log file. It is characterized in that when a person is detected by the human body detection unit during the operation, the transmission of the log file by the log transmission unit is stopped.

Further, a display unit and a display screen detection unit for detecting the type of screen displayed on the display unit are further provided, and the detected screen type is displayed in order to start the function under the transmission stop condition. It is included that it corresponds to the function execution screen to be performed, and when the function execution screen is displayed on the display unit when the log transmission unit is transmitting a log file, the log transmission is performed. The feature is to stop the transmission of the log file by the department.

Further, a display unit and a display screen detection unit for detecting the type of screen displayed on the display unit are further provided, and the detected screen type selects a function to be executed in the transmission permission condition. The log transmission unit transmits the generated log file when the initial screen is displayed on the display unit. ..

If any of the transmission stop conditions occurs and the log file L being transmitted exists, the transmission of the log file L being transmitted is continued, and after the transmission of the log file L is completed, the transmission is completed. It is characterized in that the transmission of the log file to be transmitted after that is stopped.

Further, in the situation related to the start of execution of the above-mentioned function, a person existing in the vicinity of the information processing device is detected, a screen other than the initial screen for selecting the function of the information processing device is displayed, and the like. It is characterized in that it includes one of the input operations for executing the function of the information processing device.

Further, the function involving communication via the network is characterized in that it includes one or more functions of a fax transmission service, an administrative service, and a file transfer service.

Further, the function execution screen includes a copy screen capable of executing the copying function and a fax screen capable of executing the fax function.

Further, an energy-saving monitoring unit that monitors whether or not the operation mode should shift to the energy-saving mode that suppresses power consumption and an energy-saving transition unit that shifts the operation mode to the energy-saving mode are further provided. If the log transmission unit is transmitting a log file when it is determined that the mode should be shifted to the energy saving mode, the control unit continues to transmit the log file and suspends the transition to the energy saving mode. It is characterized by that.

Further, when the energy saving monitoring unit determines that the mode should be shifted to the energy saving mode, if there is a log file in the transmission waiting state, the control unit suspends the transition to the energy saving mode and transmits the transmission. After the transmission of all the log files in the waiting state is completed, the energy saving transition unit shifts the operation mode to the energy saving mode.

If the log transmission unit is transmitting a log file or if there is a log file waiting to be transmitted when the information requesting the mode to shift to the energy saving mode is received, the mode is set to the energy saving mode. After the transition is suspended, the transmission of the transmitting log file is continued, and the transmission of the transmitting log file and all the log files in the transmission waiting state is completed, the energy saving transition unit sets the operation mode. When the log transmission unit shifts to the energy saving mode and the log transmission unit does not transmit the log file and the log file in the transmission waiting state does not exist, the energy saving transition unit shifts the operation mode to the energy saving mode. To do.

Further, the present invention is a log information transmission control method for an information processing apparatus, in which a log information acquisition step for acquiring log information including an operating status and the acquired log information are divided to generate a plurality of log files. Stops the log file generation step, the log transmission step of sequentially transmitting the log files to the information management device via the network when a predetermined transmission permission condition occurs, and the transmission of the log information to the information management device. The transmission stop condition includes a stop condition determination step for determining whether or not a transmission stop condition has occurred, and a step for stopping the transmission of the log file when the transmission stop condition occurs. A log of an information processing device that includes the fact that the execution of a function that involves communication via a network has started and that a situation related to the start of execution of the function has occurred among the functions that can be executed. It provides an information transmission control method.

According to the present invention, log information including the operation status is acquired, the acquired log information is divided to generate a plurality of log files, and the transmission stop condition is set to the transmission stop condition via the network among the executable functions. The generated log file is sent when the execution of the function with communication is started and the situation related to the start of execution of the function occurs and the predetermined transmission permission condition is satisfied. Since the transmission of the log file is stopped when any of the above transmission stop conditions occurs, the information processing device is used when transmitting the log information acquired by the information processing device to the information management device via the network. Log information can be sent quickly and efficiently without affecting the functions performed by the user.

It is a block diagram of one Example of the image forming apparatus of this invention. It is a block diagram of one Example of the function control device of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of one Example of the information stored in the storage part of the image forming apparatus of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of one Example which showed the relationship between the human body detection state and the transmission state of a log file in the image forming apparatus of this invention. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of an embodiment showing the relationship between the screen displayed on the display unit and the transmission state of the log file in the image forming apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a flowchart of an embodiment of log transmission control processing at the time of detecting a human body in the image forming apparatus of the present invention. It is a flowchart of one Example of the log transmission control processing at the time of the human body detection in the image forming apparatus of this invention. It is a flowchart of one Example of the log transmission control processing corresponding to the detected display screen in the image forming apparatus of this invention. It is a flowchart of one Example of the log transmission control processing corresponding to the transition to energy saving in the image forming apparatus of this invention. It is a flowchart of one Example of the log transmission control processing corresponding to the transition to energy saving in the image forming apparatus of this invention.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. It should be noted that the description of the following examples does not limit the present invention.
In the embodiment of the information processing apparatus of the present invention shown below, an embodiment relating to the image forming apparatus included in the information processing apparatus will be described.
In addition to the image forming device, the embodiment of the present invention includes, for example, an automatic sales device for storing a large number of products, a POS device, a ticket issuing machine such as a parking lot, a fee collecting device, a ticket vending machine, a large stationary game machine, and the like. It can also be applied to an information processing device that collects a fee and sells a predetermined product or executes a predetermined service function.

<Structure of image forming apparatus>
FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an embodiment of the image forming apparatus of the present invention.
The image forming apparatus (hereinafter, also referred to as MFP: Multifunction Peripheral, also referred to as a multifunction device) 1 is an apparatus for processing image data, and is, for example, a copying function, a printing function, a document reading function (scan function), a document editing function, and a fax function. , It is an electronic device equipped with communication functions.

In FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus (MFP) 1 of the present invention mainly includes a control unit 11, an operation unit 12, a display unit 13, a communication unit 14, an image processing unit 15, a log information acquisition unit 16, and a log file generation unit 17. , Human body detection unit 18, display screen detection unit 19, energy saving monitoring unit 20, energy saving transition request detection unit 21, energy saving transition unit 22, log transmission unit 23, stop condition determination unit 24, transmission determination unit 25, storage unit 50. ..

The control unit 11 is a part that controls the operation of each component such as an operation unit and an image processing unit, and is mainly realized by a microcomputer including a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, an I / O controller, a timer, and the like.
The CPU organically operates various hardware based on a control program stored in advance in a ROM or the like to execute the image processing function, the log information acquisition function, the log transmission function, and the like of the present invention.

Further, among the above components, the log information acquisition unit 16, the log file generation unit 17, the energy saving monitoring unit 20, the stop condition determination unit 24, and the transmission determination unit 25 are each processed by the CPU based on a predetermined program. A functional block to execute.

The operation unit 12 is an input device for the user of the image forming apparatus to perform a predetermined input operation.
For example, it is a part for inputting information such as characters and inputting selection of functions, and a keyboard, mouse, touch panel, or the like is used.
Further, for example, a user who intends to execute copying or the like inputs a setting item such as the number of copies to be copied by the operation unit 12, or confirms a message displayed on the display unit and uses a touch panel or the like. Select and input the setting items required for copying by performing a predetermined input operation.
If the user wants to interrupt the operation while executing a function such as copying, the function being executed is stopped by inputting a predetermined "stop function" key.

The display unit 13 is a part for displaying information, and displays information necessary for executing each function, a result of executing the function, and the like in order to inform the user. For example, when an LCD, an organic EL display, or the like is used and a touch panel is used as the operation unit 12, the display unit and the touch panel are arranged so as to overlap each other.
The display unit 13 relates to, for example, information and setting items necessary for executing the printing function of the image forming apparatus, the document reading function, the inquiry message to the user, information indicating the current operating state, and the transmission state of the log. Information and the like are displayed using characters, symbols, images, icons, and the like.

The communication unit 14 is a portion that communicates with other information communication devices such as an information management device 3 (hereinafter, also referred to as a server or SV) via the network 2.
For example, image data is received from the server SV3 connected to the network. Alternatively, the image data generated by the image forming apparatus is transmitted to the server SV3.
In addition, the log file generated by the image forming apparatus is transmitted to the server SV3.
Alternatively, when the function control device PC4 described later is connected to the image forming device MFP1, information such as an energy saving transition request is received from the function control device PC4.
As the network, LAN, WAN such as the Internet, and other dedicated lines are used, and the communication form may be either wired communication or wireless communication.

The image processing unit 15 is a part that executes the original function of the image forming apparatus, and executes an image forming function of inputting predetermined information, forming image information from the input information, and outputting the image information.
The image processing unit 15 is mainly formed of an image input unit for inputting predetermined image information, and an image forming unit for converting the input image data into information capable of printing or forming print information. It consists of an image output unit that outputs printed information and the like to printing paper and the like.

The image input unit is a part for inputting image information to the image forming apparatus, and for example, input information such as a manuscript on which an image, a character figure, or the like is described.
As the image input unit, a scanner (reading device) that reads a document on which information is printed is used.
Further, the image forming apparatus is provided with a mounting table on which the document to be read is placed, and the document is placed in a predetermined reading area of the mounting table.
For example, when a manuscript on which a printed image is described is placed on a mounting table, the manuscript is read by a scanner and the electronic data of the printed image is stored in the storage unit 50.
In addition to scanning the original, there are various methods for inputting image information.

For example, an interface for connecting an external storage device such as a USB memory or a hard disk corresponds to an image input unit.
An electronic data file such as a print image to be input is saved in an external storage device such as a USB memory, the USB memory or the like is connected to an input interface such as a USB terminal, and a predetermined input operation is performed by the operation unit 12. The desired electronic data file stored in the USB memory or the like may be read out and stored in the storage unit 50 as electronic data.

Further, the printed image may be received by data communication by connecting to an information processing device such as a personal computer or a server in which the printed image is stored in advance via a network such as the Internet. Further, a camera having a communication function may take a picture of a paper on which a printed image is written, connect to the camera by wireless communication, and receive the taken printed image.
Further, the image forming apparatus detects that an optical sensor for detecting that the document to be read is placed on the mounting table and an external storage device such as a USB memory are connected to the image forming apparatus with respect to the input of image information. Has a mechanism.

For example, when printing image data on recording paper, the image forming unit generally continuously performs each of the steps of charging, exposure, development, transfer, cleaning, static elimination, and fixing to record the image data. Form on paper.
In the developing step, toner is supplied from the toner cartridge to the developing apparatus, the electrostatic latent image formed on the surface of the charged photoconductor drum is developed, and the toner image corresponding to the electrostatic latent image is formed.
The toner image formed on the surface of the photoconductor drum is transferred onto the recording paper by the transfer device, and then fixed on the recording paper by being heated by the fixing device.

The image output unit is a portion that outputs the formed image data. For example, the image output unit corresponds to a printer and prints and outputs an edited print image on a predetermined printing paper (paper medium).
However, the output of image data is not limited to printing, and the storage of image data in an external storage device such as a USB memory or the output of image data to another information processing device or server via a network such as the Internet. It may be sent.

The log information acquisition unit 16 is a portion that acquires log information including the operating state of the image forming apparatus.
The log information is information that stores the operation status, maintenance status, trouble occurrence status, etc. of the image forming apparatus together with time information and set values.
For example, execution function information consisting of the executed function, operation content, and execution time of the function, trouble information consisting of the operation content and trouble occurrence time of the image forming apparatus when a trouble occurs, various types at the time of execution. Billing information including the setting contents, the function to be executed, and the execution condition is acquired as log information and stored in the storage unit 50.

The log file generation unit 17 is a part that divides the acquired log information and generates a plurality of log files.
In order to transmit the log information stored in the storage unit 50 to the server 3SV, a log file in a transmittable form is generated.
For example, since the stored log information may be a huge amount of information, it is divided into a predetermined relatively small size file.
Attempting to send all the stored log information in one file can take a long time, for example several hours, and if the transmission of log information has a high priority, the user is sending that log information. Even if an attempt is made to use the fax function of the image forming apparatus, the execution of the fax function may be delayed for a long time or may not be executed.

Therefore, the log information is divided into files having a size that does not cause a big problem in executing the original function of the image forming apparatus.
For example, when the size of the stored log information is 100 Mbytes, it is divided so that one log file of the log information is about 1 Mbytes. In this case, the log information is divided into 100 log files, and these log files are sequentially transmitted to the server SV.
If it takes, for example, 10 seconds to complete the transmission of one log file, if the user uses the fax function of the image forming device during the transmission of the log file, wait up to 10 seconds to transmit the log file. You can pause and perform fax functions.

Further, when the log information is always stored, the log information may be divided into one file for each log information stored within a predetermined unit time.
For example, when the log information is stored in association with the storage time of the log information, the log information is divided every 10 minutes, and the log information for the 10 minutes is generated as one log file.
If the log information for 60 minutes is stored, the log information is divided into six log files, and these six log files are sequentially transmitted to the server SV.

In this way, if a large amount of log information stored in the storage unit is divided into log files having a relatively small size and transmitted to the server, a predetermined image forming apparatus can be determined by the user during transmission of the log information. Even when a function is used, log information can be efficiently transmitted without hindering the execution of a predetermined function.
The method of dividing the log information is not limited to each fixed size or every unit time, and for example, the log information may be divided based on the job type, the usage rate of the device, and the like.

The human body detection unit 18 is a part that detects a person existing in the vicinity of the information processing device, and for example, detects a human body who has come to use the image forming device.
When the user approaches the vicinity of the image forming apparatus and the user is at a position where the operation unit 12 of the image forming apparatus can be operated for a predetermined time or longer, the user is detected as a person.
The device stop condition described later includes the detection of a person by the human body detection unit 18.

As the human body detection unit 18, for example, a human sensor such as an infrared sensor or a camera may be used, and the human sensor may be attached to the front panel on which the operation unit of the image forming apparatus is arranged.
Further, a semicircular region having a predetermined radius centered on the human body detection unit 18 is defined as a human body detection region, and when a human body is continuously detected in this semicircular region, for example, for 3 seconds or longer. , Judge that there is human body detection, and in other cases, judge that there is no human body detection.

As will be described later, when the human body detection unit 18 detects a person (when it is determined that the human body is detected) while the log transmission unit 23 is transmitting the log file, the user uses the image forming apparatus. It is determined that the user has arrived, and the log file transmission by the log transmitter is stopped.
Further, after the transmission of one log file that is actually being transmitted is completed, the transmission of the log file in the transmission waiting state that was scheduled to be transmitted after that may be temporarily suspended.
That is, when the user may use the image forming apparatus, the transmission of the log file is temporarily suspended so as not to affect the execution of the function selected by the user.
If it is determined that there is no human body detection after suspending the transmission of the log file, the interrupted transmission of the log file is resumed.

The display screen detection unit 19 is a part that detects the type of screen currently displayed on the display unit 13.
When there are a plurality of screen types that can be displayed on the display unit 13, for example, an identification name and a screen number are assigned to each display screen in advance, and the screen currently displayed on the display unit 13 is displayed. The identification name and screen number are stored as the current display screen information 52.
By confirming the stored current display screen information, it is possible to identify which identification name or the like the currently displayed screen has.

For example, when the "initial screen" of the image forming apparatus is currently displayed, the screen number (for example, DS01) corresponding to the initial screen is stored as the current display screen information 52, and the display screen detection unit 19 stores the screen number. Detects that the initial screen corresponding to (DS01) is currently displayed.

Further, as will be described later, the transmission stop condition includes that the detected screen type corresponds to the function execution screen displayed for starting the function, and the log transmission unit 23 sends the log file. If the function execution screen is displayed on the display unit 13 while the log transmission unit 23 is transmitting the log file, the transmission of the log file by the log transmission unit 23 is stopped.
This function execution screen includes a copy screen that can execute the copy function, a fax screen that can execute the fax function, a content print screen that prints the content, and a network scan screen that stores the scanned image in the server. , Administrative service screen, etc. are included.

For example, when a user who intends to use the image forming apparatus displays a function execution screen (copy screen) capable of starting the execution of the copy function, there is a high possibility that the copy function is actually executed. Since it is considered that it has become, stop sending the log file being sent.
By stopping the transmission of the log file in this way, it is possible to prevent the execution of the function to be executed from being affected.

Further, as will be described later, the transmission permission condition includes that the detected screen type corresponds to the initial screen for selecting the function to be executed, and the initial screen is displayed on the display unit 13. If so, the log transmission unit 23 may transmit the generated log file.
The initial screen is a screen for selecting a function to be executed by the image forming apparatus, and the function to be executed has not been decided yet, and it is considered unlikely that the function will be executed immediately. In the state, sending the log file does not affect the performance of the function.

The energy-saving monitoring unit 20 is a part that monitors the operation mode of the image forming apparatus. In particular, the energy-saving monitoring unit 20 determines whether or not the current operation mode is an energy-saving mode that suppresses power consumption, and further, the operation mode is energy-saving. Monitor whether to switch to mode.
In the present invention, in particular, when the energy saving monitoring unit 20 determines that the mode should be shifted to the energy saving mode, if the log transmitting unit 23 is transmitting a log file, the control unit 11 transmits the log file. Continue and suspend the transition to energy saving mode.

Further, when the energy saving monitoring unit 20 determines that the mode should be shifted to the energy saving mode, if there is a log file in the transmission waiting state, the control unit 11 suspends the transition to the energy saving mode and waits for transmission. After the transmission of all the log files of the state is completed, the energy saving transition unit 22 shifts the operation mode to the energy saving mode.

There are various modes of operation of the image forming apparatus, such as a normal operation mode, an energy saving mode, a standby mode, a maintenance mode, and a demo mode. The current operation mode is set based on a predetermined operation mode transition condition. Will be migrated.

For example, when the function of the image forming apparatus is not executed or the operation input is not performed for a predetermined time or longer, the mode shifts from the normal operation mode to the energy saving mode, and the operation mode information 54 is set to the energy saving mode. Memorize the corresponding information.
In addition, the time zone (energy saving time zone) for operating in the energy saving mode is set in advance, and when the current time reaches the energy saving time zone, the mode shifts to the energy saving mode, and the operation mode information corresponds to the energy saving mode. Remember.

In the energy saving mode, since the image forming apparatus is in a so-called power saving state, it is not a state in which the function of the image forming apparatus such as copying can be activated immediately, but a state in which it takes a considerable amount of time to activate the function such as copying. In order to save power, the image processing functions such as development and fixing are stopped, and the log information transmission function that needs to operate the communication function is also stopped.
Therefore, when shifting to the energy saving mode, as a general rule, the log information transmission function is stopped even while the log information transmission is being executed.

However, if several hours at night when the image forming apparatus is rarely used are preset as the energy saving time zone and the log information is transmitted and the mode shifts to the nighttime energy saving mode, the log information is transmitted for a while. Will not be done.
Therefore, in the present invention, when the transition to the energy saving mode is attempted, if the log information is being transmitted, the transmission of the log information is continued and the transition to the energy saving mode is delayed. When trying to shift to the energy saving mode, for example, it is considered that there are many cases where the image forming apparatus is rarely used at night or it is required to shift to the energy saving mode, so that the power saving effect is reduced. Even if the transmission of log information is continued and the transition to the energy saving mode is delayed, it is considered that the user's use of the image forming apparatus is not affected.

The energy-saving transition request detection unit 21 is a part that checks whether or not an energy-saving transition request has been received from the function control device PC4 described later.
When the energy saving transition request is received, the mode is shifted to the energy saving mode in principle, but the energy saving monitoring unit 20 detects that the log information is currently being transmitted or that there is a log file waiting to be transmitted. If so, the transition to the energy saving mode is suspended, and for example, the transition to the energy saving mode is performed after all the log information to be transmitted has been transmitted.

That is, when the log transmission unit 23 is transmitting the log file or the log file in the transmission waiting state exists when the information requesting the mode to shift to the energy saving mode is received, the mode is shifted to the energy saving mode. After suspending the transmission, continuing the transmission of the log file being transmitted, and completing the transmission of the log file being transmitted and all the log files waiting to be transmitted, the energy saving transition unit 22 shifts the operation mode to the energy saving mode. Let me.
On the other hand, if the log transmission unit 23 has not transmitted the log file and the log file in the transmission waiting state does not exist, the energy saving transition unit 22 operates when the information requesting the transition to the energy saving mode is received. Shift the mode to the energy saving mode.

The energy-saving transition unit 22 is a portion that performs a process of shifting the operation mode of the image forming apparatus to the energy-saving mode.
When shifting to the energy saving mode, for example, the power supply to the operation unit and the display unit is stopped, the screen display is erased, the communication function is also stopped, and the functions such as human body detection, printing device, and recording medium such as HDD are also performed. Stop it.

In addition, in principle, when the current time is in the energy saving time zone, when the energy saving transition request is received from the function control device PC4, or when the energy saving transition is requested from the server center or the like, the energy saving mode is set. Process to migrate.
However, as described above, when the transition to the energy saving mode is delayed while the log information is being transmitted, the process of shifting to the energy saving mode is performed after all the transmission of the log information to be transmitted is completed.

The log transmission unit 23 is a portion that sequentially transmits log information to the information management device (server SV) 3 via the network 2.
As described above, after the log file in which the log information is divided is generated, when a predetermined transmission permission condition as described later occurs, the log transmission unit 23 transfers the generated plurality of log files to the server SV. , Sequentially transmitted.

In addition, the file name and the transmission status flag are set for each log file in which the log information is divided, and the transmission status of the log file is managed.
For example, as will be described later, information (for example, 2) indicating waiting for transmission is set as a transmission status flag in the log file in the transmission status, and the transmission status flag is set in the log file in which transmission is completed. Set the information (for example, 0) that means that the file has been sent.

The stop condition determination unit 24 is a part that determines whether or not a condition (transmission stop condition) for stopping transmission of log information to the information management device (server SV) has occurred.
The transmission stop condition includes, for example, that, among the functions that can be executed in the image forming apparatus, the execution of the function that involves communication via the network is started, and the situation related to the start of the execution of the function occurs. Is included.

Functions involving communication via a network include one or more functions of a fax transmission service, an administrative service, a file transfer service, a printing service, and the like.
In addition, in the situation related to the start of execution of the function, information that a person existing in the vicinity of the information processing device is detected, a screen other than the initial screen for selecting the function of the information processing device is displayed, and information. It includes any of the input operations performed to execute the function of the processing device.

In addition to the above-mentioned communication function, human body detection, and screen display, for example, when a maintenance function is executed, a condition for stopping the transmission of log information (transmission) in the case of operation reservation, update, etc. It may be determined that a stop condition) has occurred.
When any of such transmission stop conditions occurs, the control unit 11 stops the transmission of the log information by the log transmission unit to the server. As a general rule, even one log file that is actually being transmitted also interrupts transmission during transmission.

However, if each log file in which the log information is divided has a relatively small file size and the transmission time is short, for example, about several seconds, the transmission may be continued.
That is, if any of the above transmission stop conditions occurs and the log file L actually being transmitted exists, the transmission of the log file L being transmitted is continued, and the transmission of the log file L is completed. Later, it stops sending the log file that should be sent after that.

If the time required to send each log file is short, waiting for the transmission of the log file to complete has little effect on the execution of the function selected by the user, and the actual sending of one log file If the transmission is interrupted in the middle, it is necessary to resend the interrupted log file, but by completing the transmission of the log file being transmitted, it is not necessary to resend, and the transmission efficiency of the entire log information is reduced. You can prevent it from happening.

The transmission determination unit 25 is a unit that determines the transmission status of the log file and sets the transmission status flag for each log file.
For example, it is determined whether the log file is in the transmission waiting state, is being transmitted, has been transmitted, or is in the transmission interrupted state, and the state is set in the transmission status flag.
Further, when the above-mentioned transmission stop condition occurs, the transmission of one log file that is actually being transmitted is interrupted in the middle, or the transmission of the one log file is continued and the transmission is completed. , Determine whether to interrupt the subsequent transmission of the waiting log file.

The storage unit 50 is a part that stores information and programs necessary for executing each function of the image processing device of the present invention, and is a storage device such as a semiconductor storage element such as a ROM, RAM, or a flash memory, or an HDD or an SSD. , Other storage media are used.
The storage unit 50 stores, for example, a log file 51, current display screen information 52, human body detection information 53, operation mode information 54, energy saving transition information 55, and the like.
FIG. 3 shows an explanatory diagram of an embodiment of information stored in the storage unit of the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

The log file 51 is obtained by converting the acquired log information into a format to be transmitted to the server, and each log file is generated by dividing the log information into a predetermined size.
The log information sent to the server consists of a plurality of log files.
Each log file 51 is given a file name and is stored in the storage unit.
In addition, for each log file, a transmission status flag indicating the current state of the log file is stored in association with the file name for transmission to the server.

FIG. 3A shows an embodiment of the log file (LGF) 51.
Here, the log file (LGF) is composed of a file name and a transmission status flag (SDF), but the contents of the divided log information are also stored in association with each other.
Further, it is assumed that the transmission status flag SDF consists of four transmission states, and that any of these transmission states is set in each log file.
As shown in FIG. 3A, the transmission status flag SDF is set to one of the transmission statuses of "sent", "sending", "waiting for transmission", and "transmission interrupted (cancelled)". And.

For example, the log file LG001 in FIG. 3A is a “sent” file, and the transmission status flag SDF is set to zero. A "sent" file means that it has already been sent to the server.
Further, the log file LG002 is a "transmitting" file, and 1 is set in the transmission status flag SDF. A "sending" file means that it is currently being sent to the server.
The log file LG003 is a “waiting for transmission” file, and the transmission status flag SDF is set to 2. A "waiting to send" file means that it has not yet been sent to the server. The acquired log information is divided, and the log file immediately after being generated is set to "waiting for transmission" in principle.

The log file LG004 is a “transmission interrupted” file, and the transmission status flag SDF is set to 3. The "transmission interrupted" file was originally a "transmission waiting" file, but the setting has been changed to "transmission interrupted" due to the occurrence of a predetermined log information transmission stop condition, or the file has been changed to "transmission interrupted". It means that the file was "transmitting", but the setting was changed to "transmission interrupted" because the transmission stop condition of the predetermined log information occurred. The state in which the transmission stop condition occurs is, for example, a state in which a human body is detected or a state in which an image for executing a predetermined function such as a copy function is displayed.
When the transmission stop condition is cleared, the "transmission interrupted" file returns to the "waiting for transmission" file.

Assuming that the transmission status flag SDF of each log file does not enter the "transmission interrupted" state, it is set to "waiting for transmission" after the log file is generated, and then changed to "transmitting" to the server. When the transmission of is completed, it is set to "Sent".
The log file set to "Sent" may be deleted from the storage unit if necessary.

The current display screen information 52 is information for identifying the screen currently displayed on the display unit 13.
FIG. 3B shows an embodiment of the current display screen information (HDS) 52.
Here, the screen number and the content (screen name) of the display screen that the screen number means are shown.
For example, the screen number DS01 means an initial screen (also called a portal screen). When DS01 is stored in the current display screen information 52, the initial screen is displayed on the current display unit 13.
The initial screen is, for example, a screen that is displayed first when the image forming apparatus is started, and is a screen for selecting a main function of the image forming apparatus.

When the initial screen is displayed, the function to be executed has not been selected yet. For example, the user displays "copy", "scan", "fax", and "send file" on the initial screen. , "Content print", "Administrative service", etc., can be selected and input to switch to the display screen for executing the selected function.
In this way, when the initial screen is displayed, the function of the image forming device is not executed. Therefore, as described later, if there is a "waiting for transmission" log file, the log file is sent to the server. Send.

On the other hand, when the other display screen shown in FIG. 3B is displayed, the log file is not transmitted to the server even if the "waiting for transmission" log file exists.
In FIG. 3 (b), one of the "copy screen" of screen number DS02, the "fax screen" of screen number DS03, the "photo service screen" of screen number DS04, and the "content service screen" of screen number DS05 is currently When the display screen information 52 is set, it is considered that the user is trying to execute the desired function. Therefore, in order not to affect the execution of the function, a log file is stored in the server. It shall not be sent.

Also, if the display changes from the initial screen to a screen other than the initial screen such as the "copy screen" and there is a log file being sent, transmission will continue until the transmission of the log file being sent is completed. You may. In this case, the transmission of the log file to the server is interrupted after the transmission of the log file being transmitted is completed.
The display screen is not limited to the five screens shown in FIG. 3B, and if there are other display screens, they may be newly set together with the screen number.

In addition, as described above, only the initial screen is a display screen that allows the log file to be sent to the server, but it is not limited to this.
If there is a display screen other than the initial screen on which the log file may be sent to the server, the display screen may be set as a display screen for sending the log file to the server.
In this case, the screen number, the screen name, and whether or not the log file can be sent to the server may be stored in association with each other.

The human body detection information 53 is information indicating the current state detected by the human body detection unit 18. For example, if the human body is currently detected by the human body detection unit 18, and the human body detection state continues for a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds) or more, the human body is detected in the human body detection information 53. Information (for example, 1) indicating that the information is set.
On the other hand, when the state in which the human body is not detected continues for a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) or more, the human body detection information 53 contains information (for example, 0) indicating that the human body is not detected. Set.

The operation mode information 54 is information that stores the current operation mode of the image forming apparatus.
FIG. 3 (c) shows an embodiment of the operation mode information (MD) 54.
For example, as shown in FIG. 3C, when the current operation mode is the "normal mode", 10 is set in the operation mode information 54.
When the current operation mode is the "energy saving mode", 11 is set in the operation mode information 54.

The energy saving transition information 55 is information related to the transition of the "energy saving mode". For example, the energy saving mode is shifted to the energy saving mode after the time zone (start time and end time) of the energy saving mode and the input operation or function are not executed. The time until, the energy saving level, the cancellation method, etc. are stored in advance.
In addition, information for determining the transition to the energy saving mode and determining whether or not the log information can be transmitted is also stored. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3 (d) and 3 (e), the energy saving transition flag (PST) is stored. ) And the energy saving transition possible flag (PSE) are stored.

The energy saving transition flag (PST) is information indicating whether or not the energy saving mode is currently in the preparatory stage (referred to as transitioning), which is not the "energy saving mode".
FIG. 3 (d) shows an embodiment of the energy saving transition flag (PST).
For example, if the energy saving transition flag (PST) is set to 20, it means that the energy saving transition is not in progress (no transition), and if 21 is set, it means that the energy saving transition is in progress (transition). Means (middle).

When the preparation stage is about to shift to the energy saving mode, for example, log information may be being transmitted and a "waiting for transmission" log file may exist.
As mentioned above, when the mode is changed to the energy saving mode, the transmission of log information is also stopped. Therefore, in order to wait for the transmission of the remaining log files to be completed, the energy saving transition flag (PST) is being transferred. Set to (21) so that the mode does not immediately shift to the energy saving mode.
That is, in the state where the energy saving transitioning flag (PST) is set to transitioning (21), the log information is transmitted.

On the other hand, when the transmission of the remaining log files is completed, the energy saving transition flag (PST) is changed from transition (21) to no transition (20).
That is, in the state where the energy saving transition flag (PST) is set to no transition (20), the log information is not transmitted.

FIG. 3 (e) shows an embodiment of the energy saving transition possible flag (PSE).
The energy saving transition possible flag (PSE) is information indicating whether to allow or prohibit (impossible) the transition to the energy saving mode.
For example, when the energy saving transition possible flag (PSE) is set to 30, it means that the transition to the energy saving mode is prohibited (transition is not possible), and when 31 is set, the energy saving mode is set. It means permitting migration (migration permission).

When the energy saving transition possible flag (PSE) is set to non-transition (30), even if it is required to shift to the energy saving mode or the time zone of the energy saving mode is reached, the energy saving mode is set. not enter.
On the other hand, when the energy saving transition enable flag (PSE) is set to the transition permission (31), when the transition to the energy saving mode is requested, or when the time zone of the energy saving mode is reached, the energy saving mode is set. to go into.

<Configuration of function control device>
FIG. 2 shows a block diagram of an embodiment of the functional control device of the present invention.
The function control device (hereinafter, also referred to as an application box or a PC) 4 selects functions that can be executed by the image forming device, billing processing, setting of the operation mode of the image forming device, transition management to the energy saving mode, maintenance processing, and updating. It is a device that performs processing, setting switching, and so on.
The function control device PC may be communicatively connected to the image forming device MFP1 or may be built in the image forming device MFP1. Alternatively, the image forming apparatus itself may have a function corresponding to the function control device PC from the beginning.

Further, the function control device PC4 is connected to the information management device SV3 via a network.
When the function control device PC and the image forming device MFP are connected, the log information acquired by the image forming device MFP is once transmitted to the function control device PC, and the log information is divided in the function control device PC. A file may be generated and a log file may be transmitted from the function control device PC to the information management device SV via the network.

In addition, the image forming device MFP divides the acquired log information to generate a log file, transmits the generated log file to the function control device PC, and connects the function control device PC to the information management device SV. You may send the log file via.
Alternatively, the function control device PC performs selection of functions that can be executed by the image forming device, billing processing, setting of the operation mode of the image forming device, and transition management to the energy saving mode, but acquisition of log information,
The log file generation and transmission functions may be performed by the image forming apparatus.

In FIG. 2, the function control device PC4 of the present invention mainly includes a control unit 71, an operation unit 72, a display unit 73, a communication unit 74, an energy saving transition request unit 75, a function execution unit 76, and a storage unit 77.

The control unit 71 is a part that controls the operation of each component such as the operation unit and the communication unit of the function control device PC, and is realized mainly by a microcomputer including a CPU, ROM, RAM, I / O controller, timer, and the like. Will be done.
Based on the control program stored in advance in the ROM or the like, the CPU organically operates various hardware to execute the energy saving transition request function, the log transmission function, and the like of the function control device PC.

Further, when the function control device PC manages the transition of the image forming device to the energy saving mode, the function control device PC also manages the time of the operation mode, for example, in the time zone of the energy saving mode in which the current time is set in advance. When the image is entered, or when the input operation by the user has not been performed for a predetermined time or more, the image forming apparatus may be automatically requested to shift to energy saving.

The operation unit 72 is an input device for the user of the application program executed by the image forming device to perform a predetermined input operation.
For example, it is a part for inputting information such as characters and inputting selection of functions, and a keyboard, mouse, touch panel, or the like is used.
Further, for example, when a store clerk of a store or the like in which an image forming apparatus is installed wants to shift to the energy saving mode, the store clerk inputs a predetermined "energy saving transition" key to the image forming apparatus. On the other hand, an energy saving transition request may be made.

The display unit 73 is a part for displaying information, and displays information necessary for executing each function, a result of executing the function, and the like in order to inform the user. For example, when an LCD, an organic EL display, or the like is used and a touch panel is used as the operation unit 72, the display unit and the touch panel are arranged so as to overlap each other.
The display unit 73 relates to, for example, information and setting items necessary for executing a printing function of an image forming apparatus, a document reading function, an inquiry message to a user, information indicating a current operating state, and a log transmission state. Information and the like are displayed using characters, symbols, images, icons, and the like.

The communication unit 74 is a part that communicates with other information communication devices such as the information management device SV3 via the network 2.
For example, image data is received from the server SV3 connected to the network. Alternatively, the image data generated by the image forming apparatus is transmitted to the server SV3.
In addition, the log file generated by the image forming apparatus is transmitted to the server SV3.
Further, when the function control device PC4 is connected to the image forming apparatus MFP1, the energy saving transition request is transmitted to the image forming apparatus MFP1.
As the network, LAN, WAN such as the Internet, and other dedicated lines are used, and the communication form may be either wired communication or wireless communication.

The energy saving transition request unit 75 is a portion that transmits an energy saving transition request to the image forming apparatus MFP. The energy saving transition request is information requesting that the operation mode of the image forming apparatus MFP be changed to the energy saving mode.
When the energy saving transition request is transmitted to the image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus enters the energy saving mode in principle. However, as described above, if the image forming apparatus is transmitting log information when it receives the energy saving transition request, it delays entering the energy saving mode until the transmission of the log information is completed. You may let me.

The function execution unit 76 is a part that gives information necessary for executing the function to the image forming apparatus so as to execute the function requested by the operation unit 72 or the like.
By giving the image forming apparatus the information necessary to perform the function, the image forming apparatus executes the function selected by the user.

The storage unit 77 is a part that stores information and programs necessary for executing each function of the function control device PC, and is a semiconductor storage element such as ROM, RAM, flash memory, a storage device such as HDD, SSD, and the like. Storage medium is used.
The storage unit 77 may store, for example, the above-mentioned log file 51, current display screen information 52, operation mode information 54, and the like.

<Conditions for log file transmission control>
As described above, in the image forming apparatus of the present invention, log information is acquired, the acquired log information is divided, a plurality of log files are generated, and then the log files are sequentially transmitted to the server.
However, it is preferable to send the log file to the server so as not to affect the functions executed by the image forming apparatus.
An example of the conditions for controlling the transmission of the log file will be described below.

(Conditions for not sending log files to the server: Conditions for prohibiting transmission)
When the image forming device is in the following state (when the transmission prohibition condition is satisfied), the log file is not transmitted to the server.
Condition A1: When a network-based function is being executed by the image forming device For example, a network-based function such as a fax transmission service, an administrative service, a network-based printing service, or a network-based file transmission service is executed. If so, do not send the log file to the server even if there is a "waiting to send" log file.

Condition A2: When the image forming device is undergoing maintenance by the person in charge For example, when the image forming device is being adjusted, parts are replaced, or troubles that have occurred are removed, there is a "waiting for transmission" log file. Even so, do not send the log file to the server.

Condition A3: When the server cannot receive the log file For example, when the server is under maintenance or the communication path is down, even if there is a "waiting to send" log file, the log file is sent to the server. Do not send to.

(Conditions to stop sending log files: Conditions to stop sending)
If the image forming apparatus is in the following state (when the transmission stop condition is satisfied) while the log file is being transmitted to the server, the transmission of the log file is stopped.
However, for one log file that is actually being transmitted, transmission of the log file that is scheduled to be transmitted after the transmission may be completed may be stopped.

Condition B1: When a human body is detected For example, when the user comes to the front position of the image forming apparatus and exists for a certain period of time or more, the transmission of the log file is stopped.

Condition B2: When an input operation is performed by the operation unit For example, when the user uses the operation unit of the image forming apparatus to select a function or start execution of a function, a log file is transmitted. To stop.

Condition B3: When a display screen other than the initial screen is displayed For example, when a screen for executing the copy function or the like is displayed, the transmission of the log file is stopped.
However, in the case where the display screen W that does not stop the transmission of the log file is set in advance other than the initial screen, if the display screen W is displayed, the transmission of the log file may not be stopped. ..

Condition B4: When a function using a network is executed by the image forming apparatus For example, execution of a function using a network such as a fax transmission service, an administrative service, a printing service using a network, and a file transmission service using a network. Stops sending log files when is started.

Condition B5: When a trouble occurs in the image forming apparatus so that the execution of the function cannot be continued. For example, when a trouble such as a paper jam or a component failure occurs in the image forming apparatus, the transmission of the log file is stopped.
However, if the communication function is normal and the trouble that occurred is a fatal error that requires urgent action, continue sending the log file, including the log information when the trouble occurred and immediately before the trouble occurred. May be good.
Further, when a trouble occurs in the communication function, the log information cannot be transmitted, but it is preferable to continuously acquire the log information.

Condition B6: When a trouble occurs in the function control device For example, when an error occurs in the function control device or the network is down, the transmission of the log file is stopped.

(Conditions for executing log file transmission: Transmission permission conditions)
When the image forming apparatus is in the following state (when the transmission permission condition is satisfied), the transmission of the log file is started.

Condition C1: When the human body is no longer detected For example, when the state in which the human body is detected by the user who uses the image forming apparatus is changed to the state in which the human body is not detected and the state in which the human body is not detected has passed for a certain period of time or more. To start sending the log file.

Condition C2: When the input operation by the operation unit is stopped For example, when the input operation using the operation unit of the image forming apparatus is stopped for a certain period of time or more, the transmission of the log file is started.

Condition C3: When the initial screen is displayed For example, when an input operation for displaying the initial screen is performed and the initial screen is displayed for a certain period of time or more, the transmission of the log file is started.

Condition C4: When there is a log transmission request For example, when the user performs an input operation requesting log transmission, a log file is generated from the currently stored log information and transmission of the log file is started. Let me.

Condition C5: When an important trouble other than the communication function occurs For example, when an important trouble occurs in the functions such as development, transfer, and fixing of the image forming apparatus, when the important trouble occurs and immediately before the occurrence. Start sending the log file including the log information.

Condition C6: When the time zone when the image forming apparatus is used is low For example, when the current time belongs to 10 pm to 6 am, when the time zone when the image forming apparatus is used is low is known. Set a time zone when the usage is low in advance,
When the current time enters a time zone in which the image forming apparatus is not used much, the transmission of the log file is started.

Condition C7: When the update is executed by the image forming device or the function control device For example, when the update is reserved by the image forming device or the function control device and it is necessary to save the immediately preceding information, etc., the log file Start sending.

(Conditions for continuing log file transmission: Conditions for continuing transmission)
If the image forming apparatus is in the following state (when the transmission continuation condition is satisfied) while the log file is being transmitted to the server, the log file transmission is continued.

Condition D1: When entering the energy saving mode For example, when the log file is being transmitted to the server and it is requested to enter the energy saving mode, the transmission of the log file is continued without entering the energy saving mode.
If there are log files waiting to be sent, the energy saving mode is entered after all the log files waiting to be sent are sent.

Condition D2: When the use of the image forming apparatus is low For example, while the log file is being transmitted to the server, the current time is the time zone when the use of the preset image forming apparatus is low (for example, 10:00 pm). When it enters from 6:00 am), the transmission of the log file is continued.

Condition D3: When the maintenance time scheduled on the server side is close to the time zone For example, when the current time approaches the maintenance time scheduled on the server side while sending a log file to the server, the current time Is a time zone in which the preset image forming apparatus is frequently used, but the transmission of the log file is continued.
When the maintenance time comes and the maintenance starts automatically, the transmission of the log file may be prohibited. Therefore, since it is preferable to complete the transmission of the log file before the transmission of the log file becomes impossible, the transmission of the log file is continued as described above.

Condition D4: When the size of the log file to be transmitted is small For example, while the log file is being transmitted to the server, the log file to be transmitted even if the current time enters a time zone in which a preset image forming apparatus is frequently used. If the capacity of the log file is small and the time required to transmit the remaining log file is relatively short (for example, when the transmission of the log file may be completed after about 1 minute), the transmission of the log file is continued.

Condition D5: When the update is executed by the image forming device or the function control device For example, when the update is reserved by the image forming device or the function control device and it is necessary to save the immediately preceding information, etc., the log file Continue sending.

<Example of log file transmission control corresponding to changes in human body detection status>
FIG. 4 shows an explanatory diagram of an embodiment showing the relationship between the human body detection state and the log file transmission state.
A state in which there is no user in the vicinity of the image forming apparatus is called a human body non-detection state, and a state in which a user exists in the vicinity of the image forming apparatus is called a human body detection state.
In the non-human body detection state, if there is a log file to be sent, it will be sent to the server in sequence.
In the event of a human body detection state, the user thinks that the image forming device may be used, and temporarily sends a log file so as not to interfere with the function that will be executed. Suspend. However, in this embodiment, the transmission of one log file currently being transmitted is continued, and the transmission is completed.

FIG. 4 (a-1) shows the transmission status flags SDF of the four log file LGF in the human body non-detection state.
Here, it is assumed that the transmission status flag SDF of the log file LG001 is "transmitted (0)" indicating that the transmission has already been completed.
Further, it is assumed that the transmission status flag SDF of the log file LG002 is "transmitting (1)" indicating the current transmission status.
It is assumed that the transmission status flags SDF of the log files LG003 and LG004 are "waiting for transmission (2)" indicating a status in which transmission has not yet been performed.

FIG. 4 (a-2) shows a case where a human body is not detected after a while has passed from the state of FIG. 4 (a-1) and the transmission of the log file LG002 is completed.
In FIG. 4 (a-2), since the transmission of the log file LG002 is completed, the transmission status flag SDF of the log file LG002 is changed to "transmitted (0)".
Further, in FIG. 4A-2, assuming that the transmission of the log file LG003 is started, the transmission status flag SDF of the log file LG003 changes to "Transmitting (1)".

FIG. 4 (b-1) shows a case where the user approaches the image forming apparatus and changes to the human body detection state from the state of FIG. 4 (a-1).
In order to temporarily suspend the transmission of the log files LG003 and LG004, which were "waiting for transmission (2)" in FIG. 4 (a-1), the transmission of the log files LG003 and LG004 in FIG. 4 (a-2) is performed. The status flag SDF is set to "transmission interruption (3)" indicating that transmission is interrupted.
If the log file LG002 is being transmitted, the transmission is continued, so that the transmission status flag SDF of the log file LG002 remains "Transmitting (1)".

FIG. 4 (b-2) shows a case where a human body is still detected after a while has passed from the state of FIG. 4 (b-1) and the transmission of the log file LG002 is completed.
In FIG. 4 (b-2), since the transmission of the log file LG002 is completed, the transmission status flag SDF of the log file LG002 is changed to "transmitted (0)".
However, since the human body is still detected, the transmission status flag SDF of the log files LG003 and LG004 remains "transmission interrupted (3)", and the transmission of the log file LG003 is not started.

FIG. 4 (c-1) shows a case where the user has moved away from (separated from) the image forming apparatus from the state of FIG. 4 (b-1), so that the state has changed to the non-human body detection state.
It is assumed that the transmission of the log file LG002 is completed.
Since the state has changed to the human body non-detection state, it is determined that the image forming apparatus is no longer used, and the interrupted log file transmission is resumed.
In FIG. 4 (c-1), since the transmission of the log file LG002 is completed, the transmission status flag SDF of the log file LG002 is changed to "transmitted (0)".

In addition, the transmission status flag SDF of the log files LG003 and LG004 is returned from "transmission interruption (3)" to "transmission waiting (2)". Further, immediately, the transmission of the log file LG003 that has become "waiting for transmission (2)" is started, and the transmission status flag SDF of the log file LG003 is set to "transmitting (1)". FIG. 4 (c-1) shows the case where the log file LG003 is being transmitted.

FIG. 4 (c-2) shows a case where a human body is not detected after a while has passed from the state of FIG. 4 (c-1) and the transmission of the log file LG003 is completed.
In FIG. 4 (c-2), since the transmission of the log file LG003 is completed, the transmission status flag SDF of the log file LG003 is changed to "transmitted (0)".
Further, in FIG. 4 (c-2), assuming that the transmission of the log file LG004 is started, the transmission status flag SDF of the log file LG004 changes to "Transmitting (1)".

As described above, since the log file transmission is controlled by changing the setting of the log file transmission status flag SDF in response to the change between the human body detection state and the human body non-detection state, the log file is transmitted. However, it can be prevented from affecting the execution of the function that the user is trying to perform.
As described above, the presence or absence of human body detection is one of the transmission stop conditions, but for the other transmission stop conditions as well, the transmission control of the log file can be controlled by changing the setting of the transmission status flag SDF. can do.

<Example of log file transmission control corresponding to changes in the display screen>
FIG. 5 shows an explanatory diagram of an embodiment showing the relationship between the screen displayed on the display unit and the transmission state of the log file.
Among the screens displayed on the display unit, in the state where the initial screen is displayed, if there is a log file to be transmitted, it shall be sequentially transmitted to the server.
However, if the screen changes to a state other than the initial screen, it is considered that the function of the image forming apparatus selected by the user may be executed, and the function that will be executed is hindered. Suspend the transmission of the log file so that it will not be given. However, in this embodiment, the transmission of one log file currently being transmitted is continued, and the transmission is completed.
In this embodiment, a case where a copy screen for executing the copy function is displayed as a screen other than the initial screen by a user input operation will be described.

FIG. 5 (d-1) shows the transmission status flags SDF of the four log file LGF in the state where the initial screen is displayed.
Here, it is assumed that the transmission status flag SDF of the log file LG001 is "transmitted (0)" indicating that the transmission has already been completed.
Further, it is assumed that the transmission status flag SDF of the log file LG002 is "transmitting (1)" indicating the current transmission status.
It is assumed that the transmission status flags SDF of the log files LG003 and LG004 are "waiting for transmission (2)" indicating a status in which transmission has not yet been performed.

FIG. 5 (d-2) shows a case where the copy screen is displayed by the user performing an input operation for selecting the copy function from the state of FIG. 5 (d-1).
If the copy screen is displayed, it is judged that the copy function may be executed, and the transmission of the log file is interrupted.
In order to temporarily suspend the transmission of the log files LG003 and LG004, which were "waiting for transmission (2)" in FIG. 5 (d-1), the transmission of the log files LG003 and LG004 in FIG. 5 (d-2) is performed. The status flag SDF is set to "transmission interruption (3)" indicating that transmission is interrupted.
If the log file LG002 is being transmitted, the transmission is continued, so that the transmission status flag SDF of the log file LG002 remains "Transmitting (1)".

FIG. 5 (d-3) shows a case where a copy screen is still displayed after a while has passed from the state of FIG. 5 (d-2) and the transmission of the log file LG002 is completed. There is.
In FIG. 5 (d-3), since the transmission of the log file LG002 is completed, the transmission status flag SDF of the log file LG002 is changed to "transmitted (0)".
However, since the copy screen is still displayed, the transmission status flag SDF of the log files LG003 and LG004 remains "transmission interrupted (3)", and the transmission of the log file LG003 is not started.

FIG. 5 (d-4) shows a case where the user performs an input operation to display the initial screen from the state of FIG. 5 (d-3), or the initial screen is displayed after a predetermined time has elapsed. Shown.
When the initial screen is displayed, it is determined that none of the functions of the image forming apparatus such as the copy function are being executed, and the interrupted log file transmission is resumed.
In FIG. 5 (d-4), the transmission status flag SDF of the log files LG003 and LG004 is returned from "transmission interruption (3)" to "transmission waiting (2)". Further, immediately, the transmission of the log file LG003 that has become "waiting for transmission (2)" is started, and the transmission status flag SDF of the log file LG003 is set to "transmitting (1)". FIG. 5 (d-4) shows the case where the log file LG003 is being transmitted.

After that, if the initial screen is displayed, when the transmission of the log file LG003 is completed, the transmission status flag SDF of the log file LG003 is set to "Sent (0)" and "Waiting for transmission (2). ) ”, The transmission of the log file LG004 is started, and the transmission status flag SDF of the log file LG004 is set to“ Sending (1) ”.

As described above, since the log file transmission is controlled by changing the setting of the log file transmission status flag SDF in response to the change in the screen displayed on the display unit, the log file transmission can be performed. , Can be prevented from affecting the execution of the function that the user is trying to perform.

<Example 1: Description of log transmission control processing at the time of human body detection>
Here, the processing content of an embodiment of log transmission control performed in response to human body detection will be described.
6 and 7 show a flowchart of an embodiment of the log transmission control process at the time of detecting a human body.
FIG. 6 mainly shows the processing when the human body is not detected, and FIG. 7 shows the processing when the human body is detected.

In step S1 of FIG. 6, the log information acquisition unit 16 acquires the log information of the image forming apparatus and stores it in the storage unit 50.
In step S2, check if there is a request to send log information.
If there is a request to send log information, go to step S3, otherwise go back to step S1.

For example, the store clerk checks whether or not an input operation requesting transmission of log information has been performed. Alternatively, if the time zone for transmitting the log information is predetermined, it is checked whether or not the current time belongs to that time zone.
Further, when the capacity of the log information stored in the storage unit 50 exceeds a predetermined capacity and a request is made to transmit the log information, it is checked whether or not the capacity of the log information exceeds the predetermined capacity. To do.

Further, in particular, when one or more log information is stored in the storage unit 50 without being requested to transmit the log information, the log information is set to be automatically transmitted. In that case, the process proceeds to step S3 without determining step S2.

In step S3, the log file generation unit 17 divides the log information according to a predetermined standard and generates a log file in order to transmit the log information.
Here, a file name is assigned to each log file, and "2" meaning "waiting for transmission" is set in the transmission status flag SDF corresponding to the file name.

In step S4, the human body detection unit 18 checks for the presence or absence of human body detection.
For example, when a human body is detected, the human body detection information 53 is set to 1 which means that the human body is detected. On the other hand, when the human body is not detected, the human body detection information 53 is set to 0, which means no human body is detected.
However, in order to detect the user who came to use the image forming device and not to detect the human body that simply passes in the vicinity of the image forming device, the human body is detected throughout a predetermined period after the human body is detected. It may be checked whether or not to continue, and if the human body detection continues within that period, it may be determined that the human body is detected, and in other cases, it may be determined that there is no human body detection.

If it is determined in step S5 that there is human body detection, the process proceeds to step S31 in FIG. 7, and if it is determined that there is no human body detection, the process proceeds to step S6.
In step S6, it is checked whether or not there is a log file in the transmission interruption state.
Whether or not there is a log file in the transmission interruption state is checked whether or not "3" meaning "transmission interruption" is stored in the transmission status flag SDF set for each log file.
If there is at least one log file in the transmission interruption state, the process proceeds to step S11, and if none of the log files exist, the process proceeds to step S7.

In step S7, it is checked whether or not there is a log file waiting to be sent.
Whether or not a log file in the transmission waiting state exists is checked by checking whether or not "2" meaning "waiting for transmission" is stored in the transmission status flag SDF set for each log file.
If there is at least one log file waiting to be transmitted, the process proceeds to step S8, and if none of the log files exist, the process returns to step S1.

In step S8, the log transmission unit 23 starts a process of transmitting the log file in the transmission waiting state to the server.
If there is only one log file waiting to be transmitted, the communication unit 14 transmits the log file to the server.
If there are a plurality of log files waiting to be transmitted, one log file waiting to be transmitted is selected, and the communication unit 14 transmits the selected log file to the server.
In addition, the transmission status flag SDF set in the log file to be transmitted is set to "1" which means "transmitting".

In step S9, it is checked whether or not the log file being transmitted has been transmitted.
For example, it is checked whether or not there is a notification from the communication unit 14 indicating that the transmission of the log file is completed.
If the log file has been transmitted, the process proceeds to step S10, and if not, step S9 is repeated.
Since the transmission of one log file is completed in step S10, the transmission status flag SDF corresponding to the log file is set to "0" which means "sent".
Then, the process returns to step S4.

In step S11, since it is determined that there is no human body detection, in order to return the transmission interrupted log file to the transmission waiting state, the transmission status flag SDF set in the transmission interrupted log file is set to "Transmit". Set "2" which means "wait" and return to step S4.

In step S31 of FIG. 7, since it is determined that there is human body detection, in order to put the log file in the transmission waiting state into the transmission interrupted state, first, the log file in the transmission waiting state (transmission status flag SDF = 2). Check if exists.
If there is one or more log files waiting to be transmitted, the process proceeds to step S32, and if none of them exist, the process proceeds to step S33.

In step S32, the transmission status flag SDF set in all log files in the transmission waiting state is set to "3" which means "transmission interrupted".
In step S33, it is checked whether or not a log file in the transmitting state (transmission status flag SDF = 1) exists.
If there is a log file in the transmitting state (transmission status flag SDF = 1), the process proceeds to step S34, and if not, the process returns to step S4 in FIG.

In step S34, it is checked whether or not the transmission of the log file in the transmitting state is completed.
If the transmission is completed, the process proceeds to step S35, and if not, step S34 is repeated.
Here, since it is determined that there is human body detection, the function may be executed by the user, but when it is determined that there is human body detection, the transmission of the log file in the transmitting state is interrupted. The transmission is continued and completed without any problems.

In step S35, since the transmission of one log file in the transmitting state is completed, the transmission status flag SDF corresponding to the log file is set to "0" meaning "sent". Then, the process returns to step S4.

As described above, since the transmission of the log file is controlled in response to the change in the human body detection state, the transmission of the log file does not affect the execution of the function that the user is trying to execute. can do.

<Example 2: Explanation of log transmission control process corresponding to the display screen>
FIG. 8 shows a flowchart of an embodiment of the log transmission control process corresponding to the detected display screen.
In FIG. 8, the same number is assigned to the step that performs the same processing as the step shown in FIG.
Of the display screens, log information can be sent only when the initial screen is displayed, and log information is not sent when other screens are displayed.

In step S1 of FIG. 8, similarly to FIG. 6, the log information acquisition unit 16 acquires the log information of the image forming apparatus and stores it in the storage unit 50, and in step S2, there is a request to transmit the log information. Check if it is.
If there is a request to send log information, go to step S3, otherwise go back to step S1.
In particular, when there is no request to transmit log information and one or more log information is stored in the storage unit 50, the log information is set to be automatically transmitted. , Proceed to step S3 without making a judgment in step S2.

In step S3, the log file generation unit 17 divides the log information according to a predetermined standard and generates a log file in order to transmit the log information.
Here, a file name is assigned to each log file, and "2" meaning "waiting for transmission" is set in the transmission status flag SDF corresponding to the file name.

In step S41, the display screen detection unit 18 checks the type of screen currently displayed on the display unit 13 by using the current display screen information 52.
In step S42, it is checked whether or not the initial screen is currently displayed, and if the initial screen is currently displayed, the process proceeds to step S6.

On the other hand, if a screen other than the initial screen is currently displayed, the process proceeds to step S31 in FIG.
The processing after proceeding to step S31 in FIG. 7 is the same as the processing from step S31 to step S35 described above, and if there is a log file waiting to be transmitted, the log file waiting to be transmitted is set to the transmission interruption state. , If there is a log file being sent, the transmission is continued until the log file is completed. A detailed description of the processing after proceeding to step S31 of FIG. 7 will be omitted.

Further, the processing after step S6 when the initial screen is displayed is the same as the processing shown in FIG.
That is, in step S6, it is checked whether or not there is a log file in the transmission interruption state, and if there is at least one log file in the transmission interruption state, the process proceeds to step S11, and if none exists, step S. Proceed to S7.

Further, in step S7, it is checked whether or not there is a log file in the transmission waiting state, and if there is at least one log file in the transmission waiting state, the process proceeds to step S8, and if none of them exists, step S. Return to S1.

In step S8, the log transmission unit 23 starts a process of transmitting the log file in the transmission waiting state to the server. If there are a plurality of log files waiting to be transmitted, one log file waiting to be transmitted is selected, and the communication unit 14 transmits the selected log file to the server.
In addition, the transmission status flag SDF set in the log file to be transmitted is set to "1" which means "transmitting".

In step S9, it is checked whether or not the log file being transmitted has completed transmission, and if the log file has completed transmission, the process proceeds to step S10, and if not, step S9 is repeated.
Since the transmission of one log file is completed in step S10, the transmission status flag SDF corresponding to the log file is set to "0" meaning "sent", and then the process returns to step S4.

Since the initial screen is currently displayed in step S11, in order to return the transmission interrupted log file to the transmission waiting state, the transmission status flag SDF set in the transmission interrupted log file is set to ". Set "2" which means "waiting for transmission", and return to step S4.

As described above, since the log file transmission is controlled in response to the change in the screen displayed on the display unit, the log file transmission affects the execution of the function that the user is trying to execute. Can be avoided.

<Example 3: Explanation of log transmission control processing corresponding to energy saving transition>
9 and 10 show a flowchart of an embodiment of log transmission control processing corresponding to the transition to energy saving in the image forming apparatus.
Here, when the energy saving transition request is transmitted from the function control device PC to the image forming apparatus MFP, it is assumed that the mode is shifted to the energy saving mode.
Further, when shifting to the energy saving mode, if there is log information to be transmitted to the server, the transition to the energy saving mode shall be temporarily suspended, and after the transmission of the log information is completed, the transition to the energy saving mode shall be performed.

In the following embodiment, the operation mode of the image forming apparatus is not the energy saving mode at first, but the initial states of the energy saving transition flag PST and the energy saving transition possible flag PSE are PST = 20 (no transition) and PSE = 30 (no transition). It is assumed that it is set to (impossible).

In step S51 of FIG. 9, it is checked whether or not the energy saving transition possible flag PSE is set to “permission (31)”, and if the energy saving transition enable flag PSE = 31 (permission), the process proceeds to step S65 to save energy. If the transferable flag PSE = 30 (impossible), the process proceeds to step S52.

In step S65, the process of shifting to the energy saving mode is performed. For example, the power supply to the display unit is stopped, the screen display is erased, the heater, the motor, etc. are stopped, and the set value is saved.
In step S66, the energy saving transition possible flag PSE is set to 30 (impossible), the energy saving transition in progress flag PST is set to 20 (no transition), and the process ends.

In step S52, it is checked whether or not the energy saving transition flag PST is set to “transitioning (21)”, and if the energy saving transition flag PST = 21 (transitioning), the process proceeds to step S71 in FIG. If the energy saving transition flag PST = 20 (no transition), the process proceeds to step S53.

In step S53, the reception of the energy saving transition request sent from the function control device PC is checked.
If the energy saving transition request is received in step S54, the process proceeds to step S61, and if not, the process proceeds to step S55.
In step S55, as in step S6, it is checked whether or not there is a log file in the transmission interruption state.
Whether or not there is a log file in the transmission interruption state is checked whether or not "3" meaning "transmission interruption" is stored in the transmission status flag SDF set for each log file.
If there is at least one log file in the transmission interruption state, the process proceeds to step S60, and if none of the log files exist, the process proceeds to step S56.

In step S56, as in step S7, it is checked whether or not there is a log file waiting to be transmitted.
Whether or not a log file in the transmission waiting state exists is checked by checking whether or not "2" meaning "waiting for transmission" is stored in the transmission status flag SDF set for each log file.
If there is at least one log file waiting to be transmitted, the process proceeds to step S57, and if none of the log files exist, the process returns to step S51.

In step S57, the log transmission unit 23 starts a process of transmitting the log file in the transmission waiting state to the server.
If there is only one log file waiting to be transmitted, the communication unit 14 transmits the log file to the server.
If there are a plurality of log files waiting to be transmitted, one log file waiting to be transmitted is selected, and the communication unit 14 transmits the selected log file to the server.
In addition, the transmission status flag SDF set in the log file to be transmitted is set to "1" which means "transmitting".

In step S58, it is checked whether or not the log file being transmitted has been transmitted.
For example, it is checked whether or not there is a notification from the communication unit 14 indicating that the transmission of the log file is completed.
If the log file has been transmitted, the process proceeds to step S59, and if not, step S58 is repeated.
Since the transmission of one log file is completed in step S59, the transmission status flag SDF corresponding to the log file is set to "0" which means "sent".
Then, the process returns to step S51.

Since the transition to the energy saving mode is not requested in step S60, the transmission status flag SDF set in the transmission suspension status log file is set in order to return the transmission suspension status log file to the transmission standby status. Set "2" which means "waiting for transmission", and return to step S51.

Since the request for transition to the energy saving mode is received in step S61, first, in order to determine whether or not the transition to the energy saving mode may be performed immediately, first, the log file in the transmission waiting state (transmission status flag SDF = 2). Check if exists.
If there is one or more log files waiting to be transmitted, the process proceeds to step S64, and if none of them exist, the process proceeds to step S62.

In step S62, it is checked whether or not a log file in the transmitting state (transmission status flag SDF = 1) exists.
If there is a log file in the transmitting state (transmission status flag SDF = 1), the process proceeds to step S64, and if not, the process proceeds to step S63.

In step S63, the energy saving transition possible flag PSE is set to allow (PSE = 31), and then the process returns to step S51.
If the process proceeds to step S63, when there is a request to shift to the energy saving mode, there is no log file in the transmitting or waiting state, so the mode shifts to the energy saving mode.

In step S64, the energy saving transition flag PST is set during the transition (PST = 21), and then the process returns to step S51.
If the process proceeds to step S64, there is a log file in the transmitting or waiting state, so even if there is a request to shift to the energy saving mode, the transition to the energy saving mode is suspended.

In step S71 of FIG. 10, it is checked whether or not a log file in the transmission waiting state (transmission state flag SDF = 2) exists.
If there is one or more log files waiting to be transmitted, the process proceeds to step S72, and if none of them exist, the process proceeds to step S75.
If you proceed to step S71, the energy saving transition flag PST is set during the transition, so if there is a log file that is being sent or waiting to be sent, the log file will continue to be sent and the mode will shift to the energy saving mode. Hold to do. After all the log files that are being sent and waiting to be sent have been sent, the mode shifts to the energy saving mode.

In step S72, similarly to step S57, the log transmission unit 23 starts the process of transmitting the log file in the transmission waiting state to the server.
If there is only one log file waiting to be transmitted, the communication unit 14 transmits the log file to the server.
If there are a plurality of log files waiting to be transmitted, one log file waiting to be transmitted is selected, and the communication unit 14 transmits the selected log file to the server.
In addition, the transmission status flag SDF set in the log file to be transmitted is set to "1" which means "transmitting".

In step S73, as in step S58, it is checked whether or not the log file being transmitted has been transmitted.
If the log file has been transmitted, the process proceeds to step S74, and if not, step S73 is repeated.
Since the transmission of one log file is completed in step S74, the transmission status flag SDF corresponding to the log file is set to "0" which means "transmitted".
After that, the process returns to step S71 to check whether or not the remaining log files waiting to be transmitted exist.

In step S75, it is checked whether or not there is a log file in the transmitting state (transmission status flag SDF = 1).
If there is a log file in the transmitting state (transmission status flag SDF = 1), the process proceeds to step S73. If not, the process proceeds to step S76.
If the process proceeds to step S73, it waits for the transmission of the log file in the transmitting state to be completed.

In step S76, since there are no log files being transmitted or waiting to be transmitted, the energy saving transition enable flag PSE is set to allow (PSE = 31), and the process returns to step S51. In this case, since the transmission of all the log files that were being transmitted and waiting for transmission has been completed, the mode is then shifted to the energy saving mode.

As described above, when the transition to the energy saving mode is requested, if there is no log file being transmitted or waiting for transmission at the time of the request, the transition to the energy saving mode is immediately performed.
On the other hand, if there is a log file that is being transmitted or is waiting to be transmitted at the time of the request to shift to the energy saving mode, the transmission of the log file is continued, the transition to the energy saving mode is suspended, and the log file is transmitted. After all the log files in the middle and waiting state have been sent, the mode shifts to the energy saving mode.

In this way, when trying to shift to the energy saving mode, after sending the log file that is being transmitted or waiting to be sent, the mode shifts to the energy saving mode, so some log files to be sent remain in the image forming device. In this state, it is possible to prevent the file from being sent to the server.
For example, if several hours at night are set as the time zone for shifting to the energy saving mode, if the mode shifts to the energy saving mode, log files cannot be sent for the few hours at night, but the mode is switched to the energy saving mode. Since all log files that are being sent or are waiting to be sent are sent before migration, it is possible to prevent some log files that should be sent from being sent to the server for a long time. During the transition to the energy saving mode, it is possible to analyze and manage the log information of the image forming apparatus using all the log files.

Preferred embodiments of the present invention include a combination of any of the plurality of embodiments described above.
In addition to the embodiments described above, there may be various variations of the present invention. These variations should not be construed as not belonging to the scope of the present invention. The present invention should include the meaning equivalent to the claims and all modifications within the said scope.

1 Image forming device (MFP),
2 networks,
3 Information management device (SV),
4 Function control device (PC),
11 Control unit,
12 Operation unit,
13 Display,
14 Communication Department,
15 Image processing unit,
16 Log information acquisition department,
17 Log file generator,
18 Human body detector,
19 Display screen detector,
20 Energy Saving Monitoring Department,
21 Energy saving transition request detector,
22 Energy Saving Transition Department,
23 Log transmitter,
24 Stop condition judgment unit,
25 Transmission judgment unit,
50 storage,
51 log file,
52 Current display screen information,
53 Human body detection information,
54 Operation mode information,
55 Energy saving transition information,
71 Control unit,
72 Operation unit,
73 Display,
74 Communication Department,
75 Energy Saving Transition Request Department,
76 Function Execution Department,
77 Memory

Claims (12)

A log information acquisition unit that acquires log information including the operating status,
A log file generator that divides the acquired log information and generates multiple log files,
A log transmission unit that sequentially transmits the log files to the information management device via the network,
A stop condition determination unit that determines whether or not a transmission stop condition that stops transmission of log information to the information management device has occurred, and a stop condition determination unit.
Equipped with a control unit
The transmission stop condition includes that, among the executable functions, the execution of the function that involves communication via the network has started, and that a situation related to the start of the execution of the function has occurred.
When a predetermined transmission permission condition occurs, the log transmission unit transmits the generated log file, and the log transmission unit transmits the generated log file.
An information processing device characterized in that the control unit stops transmission of a log file by the log transmission unit when any of the transmission stop conditions occurs. It is further equipped with a human body detection unit that detects a person existing in the vicinity of the information processing device.
The transmission stop condition includes that a person is detected by the human body detection unit.
The first aspect of claim 1, wherein when the human body detection unit detects a person while the log transmission unit is transmitting the log file, the transmission of the log file by the log transmission unit is stopped. Information processing device. It further includes a display unit and a display screen detection unit that detects the type of screen displayed on the display unit.
The transmission stop condition includes that the detected screen type corresponds to the function execution screen displayed for starting the function.
A claim characterized in that, when the function execution screen is displayed on the display unit while the log transmission unit is transmitting a log file, the transmission of the log file by the log transmission unit is stopped. The information processing apparatus according to 1. It further includes a display unit and a display screen detection unit that detects the type of screen displayed on the display unit.
The transmission permission condition includes that the detected screen type corresponds to an initial screen for selecting a function to be executed.
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the log transmission unit transmits the generated log file when the initial screen is displayed on the display unit. If any of the transmission stop conditions occurs and the log file being transmitted exists, the transmission of the log file being transmitted is continued, and after the transmission of the log file being transmitted is completed, after that. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the transmission of a log file to be transmitted is stopped. In the situation related to the start of execution of the above function,
A person existing in the vicinity of the information processing device was detected, a screen other than the initial screen for selecting the function of the information processing device was displayed, and an input operation was performed to execute the function of the information processing device. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein any of the above is included. The information according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the function involving communication via the network includes any one or more functions of a fax transmission service, an administrative service, and a file transfer service. Processing equipment. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the function execution screen includes a copy screen capable of executing a copy function and a fax screen capable of executing a fax function. An energy-saving monitoring unit that monitors whether or not the operation mode should shift to an energy-saving mode that suppresses power consumption,
It is further equipped with an energy-saving transition unit that shifts the operation mode to the energy-saving mode.
When the log transmission unit transmits a log file when the energy saving monitoring unit determines that the mode should be shifted to the energy saving mode.
The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the control unit continues to transmit the log file and suspends the transition to the energy saving mode. If the log file in the transmission waiting state exists when the energy saving monitoring unit determines that the mode should be shifted to the energy saving mode,
The claim is characterized in that the control unit suspends the transition to the energy-saving mode, and after the transmission of all the log files in the transmission waiting state is completed, the energy-saving transition unit shifts the operation mode to the energy-saving mode. Item 9. The information processing apparatus according to item 9. When the information requesting the transition to the energy saving mode is received,
If the log transmission unit is transmitting a log file, or if there is a log file waiting to be transmitted, the transition to the energy saving mode is suspended, and the transmission of the log file being transmitted is continued. After the transmission of the log file being transmitted and all the log files in the transmission waiting state is completed, the energy saving transition unit shifts the operation mode to the energy saving mode.
The ninth aspect of claim 9 is characterized in that the energy saving transition unit shifts the operation mode to the energy saving mode when the log transmitting unit does not transmit the log file and the log file in the transmission waiting state does not exist. Information processing device. It is a log information transmission control method for information processing devices.
The log information acquisition step to acquire the log information including the operation status, and
A log file generation step that divides the acquired log information and generates multiple log files,
A log transmission step of sequentially transmitting the log files to the information management device via the network when a predetermined transmission permission condition occurs, and
A stop condition determination step for determining whether or not a transmission stop condition for stopping transmission of log information to the information management device has occurred, and a stop condition determination step.
A step of stopping the transmission of the log file when the transmission stop condition occurs is provided.
The transmission stop condition is characterized in that, among the executable functions, the execution of the function involving communication via the network is started, and the situation related to the start of the execution of the function has occurred. Log information transmission control method of the information processing device.

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