JP2000232540A - Facsimile equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To eliminate inconvenience caused when the energy saving mode is selected. SOLUTION: When supply of power to a main CPU 1 is interrupted, a sub CPU 6 monitors a time set for timer communication and supplies power to the main CPU 1 when the set time comes to start the timer communication at the set time. Furthermore, independently of whether or not the sub CPU 6 detects a cause to release the energy saving mode, power supply to the main CPU 1 is restored for each prescribed period, the sub CPU 6 allows the main CPU 1 to monitor presence of recording paper and a state of a memory and informs the user of it when recording paper runs out or the memory is fully occupied.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an energy-saving facsimile apparatus.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in order to reduce power consumption, this type of apparatus shifts to an energy saving mode (hereinafter referred to as "energy saving mode") when there is no incoming call, operator operation, or hook-off for a certain period of time. Has a function.
In order to realize this energy saving mode, a conventional facsimile apparatus includes a sub CPU that consumes less power, in addition to a main CPU that controls the entire apparatus. In such an energy saving mode, only the sub CPU is supplied with power. When an incoming call, an operation by an operator, and a hook-off (hereinafter, referred to as “energy saving canceling factor”) are detected in the state of the energy saving mode, the sub CPU is turned on. , Power supply to main CP
It is also supplied to U and returns to the normal mode.

[0003]

However, when the mode shifts to the energy saving mode, the main CPU for controlling the entire apparatus is used.
Will no longer function, causing the following problems.

First, there has been a problem that the timer communication cannot be performed when the mode is shifted to the energy saving mode. That is,
The facsimile apparatus has a timer transmission function of storing the image data in a memory without transmitting the read original immediately, and transmitting the image data at a set time. Since the main CPU that controls the facsimile control including this function cannot operate in the energy saving mode, if there is image data to be communicated by the timer after returning to the normal mode, it will be transmitted from the time set by the operator. There was a problem that timer communication was started with a delay.

Second, in the energy saving mode, the sub CP
Since only the U operates, if the sub CPU malfunctions due to external noise such as static electricity, there is a problem that the main CPU cannot be started thereafter and cannot return to the normal mode.

Third, in the energy saving mode state, even if the mode is returned to the normal mode after receiving an incoming call, if there is no recording paper or the memory is full, the reception may be performed even if the mode is returned to the normal mode. There was a problem that it was not possible.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and has as its object to provide a facsimile apparatus which can eliminate the inconvenience when shifting to the energy saving mode.

[0008]

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention has the following measures. That is,
When the power supply to the main CPU is OFF, the sub C
The PU monitors the time set for the timer communication, and at that time, supplies the power to the main CPU, and starts the timer communication at the set time. Also, the power supply to the main CPU is restored at regular intervals, regardless of whether the sub CPU has detected the energy saving mode release factor. Also,
Regardless of whether the sub CPU detects the energy saving mode release factor or not, the power supply to the main CPU is restored at regular intervals, and at that time, the main CPU monitors the presence or absence of recording paper, the state of the memory, and If there is no, or if the memory is full, the user is notified to that effect. As a result, it is possible to eliminate the inconvenience when shifting to the energy saving mode.

[0009]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS A facsimile apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention has a main control means for controlling the entire apparatus,
A power supply to the main control means is cut off in response to an instruction to shift to the energy saving mode from the main control means, and a sub control means for restoring the power supply to the main control means when the power saving mode release factor is detected after the cutoff. The main control means transmits the set time of the timer communication together when transmitting the energy saving mode shift instruction to the sub control means, and the sub control means sets the set time to the current time after shifting to the energy saving mode. The power supply to the main control means is resumed when the set time reaches the current time.

With this configuration, if the set time of the timer communication is reached in the energy saving mode, the sub-control means activates the main control means. Can perform timer communication.

In a facsimile apparatus according to a second aspect of the present invention, main control means for controlling the entire apparatus, and power supply to the main control means is cut off upon receiving an instruction to shift to an energy saving mode from the main control means. And a sub-control means for returning power supply to the main control means upon detecting a power-saving mode release factor after the interruption, wherein the sub-control means receives an energy-saving mode transition instruction from the main control means. The power supply to the main control means is cut off, the timeout of the timer is monitored for a predetermined period, and the power supply to the main control means is restored by the timeout.

With this configuration, even when the sub CPU is run out of control due to external noise such as static electricity or a bug in the program, the mode is forcibly returned to the normal mode due to the timeout of the timer even after shifting to the energy saving mode. A situation in which the mode cannot be returned to the normal mode can be avoided.

In a facsimile apparatus according to a third aspect of the present invention, main control means for controlling the entire apparatus, and power supply to the main control means is cut off upon receiving an instruction to shift to an energy saving mode from the main control means. When a power saving mode release factor is detected after the interruption, the power supply to the main control unit is restored, and the first period during which the power supply is forcibly restored after the interruption of the power supply to the main control unit is counted. And a sub-control means having a second timer for counting a second time period shorter than the first time period, wherein the sub-control means receives an instruction to shift to the energy saving mode from the main control means. And shutting off the power supply to the main control means, resetting the first timer each time the second timer times out after the cutoff, and resetting the first timer There is the case of timeout employs a configuration in which forcibly return the power supply to the main control unit.

With this configuration, as long as the second timer operates normally, the first timer is reset each time and does not time out. On the other hand, when the second timer is abnormal, the first timer is reset.
Since the timer times out without resetting, the power supply to the main CPU is forcibly restored by this time out, so that even if the software in the sub CPU becomes abnormal, the main CPU can be started. In addition, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the mode cannot be returned from the energy saving mode to the normal mode.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the facsimile apparatus according to the third aspect, the second timer is
The first timer is a soft timer, and the first timer is constituted by a hardware circuit and times out when there is no reset by the second timer. It is determined that the software in the sub-control means is abnormal, and power is supplied to the main control means. Is forcibly restored.

According to this configuration, the first timer is constituted by a hardware circuit which is not affected by a bug in the program. As long as the soft timer operates normally, the first timer constituted by the hardware circuit is reset and timed out each time. On the other hand, if the soft timer is abnormal, the first timer times out without being reset, and the timeout causes the power supply to the main CPU to be forcibly restored. The main CPU can be activated even if
It is possible to avoid a situation where it is not possible to return from the energy saving mode to the normal mode.

Further, in a facsimile apparatus according to a fifth aspect of the present invention, main control means for controlling the entire apparatus, and power supply to the main control means is cut off upon receiving an instruction to shift to the energy saving mode from the main control means. And a sub-control means for restoring power supply to the main control means when detecting an energy-saving mode release factor after the interruption, wherein the sub-control means receives the energy-saving mode transition instruction from the main control means, and The power supply to the means is cut off, and the power supply to the main control means is restored by a time-out of a timer set to a predetermined timer value.After the return, the main control means monitors whether or not it is in a receivable state. If the reception is not possible, a notification to that effect is given.

According to this configuration, the mode is periodically returned from the energy saving mode to the normal mode, and when there is no recording paper or the memory is full, an incoming call is detected and the mode is returned to the normal mode in order to notify that fact. In this case, it is possible to avoid a situation in which reception is not possible.

Further, in a facsimile apparatus according to a sixth aspect of the present invention, a main control means for controlling the entire apparatus, and a power supply to the main control means is cut off upon receiving an instruction to shift to an energy saving mode from the main control means. And a sub-control means for restoring power supply to the main control means when detecting an energy-saving mode release factor after the interruption, wherein the sub-control means receives the energy-saving mode transition instruction from the main control means, and The power supply to the means is cut off, the power supply to the main control means is restored by timeout of a timer set to a predetermined value, and after this return, the main control means monitors whether or not it is in a receivable state,
If the reception is not possible, a notification to that effect is sent and an energy saving mode transition instruction is again sent to the sub-control means regardless of whether the reception is possible.

With this configuration, even when the energy saving mode is canceled due to a factor other than the energy saving mode canceling factor, the recording paper is replenished instead of shifting to the energy saving mode after confirming the replenishment of the recording paper or the clearing of the memory. Regardless of whether the operation has been performed or the memory has been cleared, the mode shifts to the energy saving mode after a certain period of time. Therefore, the period for canceling the mode can be minimized, and the energy saving function of the apparatus can be fully utilized. In addition, when there is no recording paper or when the memory is full, a notification to that effect is given, so that a situation in which reception is not possible when returning from the energy saving mode to the normal mode can be avoided.

Also, in a facsimile apparatus according to a seventh aspect of the present invention, a main control means for controlling the whole apparatus, and a power supply to the main control means is cut off upon receiving an instruction to shift to an energy saving mode from the main control means. And a sub-control means for restoring power supply to the main control means when detecting an energy-saving mode canceling factor after the interruption, wherein the sub-control means periodically transmits an energy-saving mode switching instruction from the main control means. When the timer value for canceling the timer is received, the power supply to the main control means is cut off, the timer value is counted, and the power supply to the main control means is returned by time-out. After the return, the main control means can receive. It is configured to monitor whether the communication is in an unsuccessful state, and to notify the user if the reception is not possible.

With this configuration, the main CPU sets the timer value and transfers it to the sub CPU.
The period during which the energy saving mode is periodically released can be arbitrarily set by the main CPU irrespective of the occurrence of the energy saving mode release factor, and a flexible response is possible.

Also, in the facsimile apparatus according to the eighth aspect of the present invention, the main control means for controlling the whole apparatus, and the power supply to the main control means is cut off upon receiving an instruction to shift to the energy saving mode from the main control means. And a sub-control means for restoring power supply to the main control means when detecting an energy-saving mode release factor after the interruption, wherein the sub-control means receives the energy-saving mode transition instruction from the main control means, and The power supply to the means is cut off, the power supply to the main control means is restored by a time-out of a timer set to a predetermined timer value, and after this return, the main control means monitors whether or not the state of the memory is present, If reception is not possible due to memory full, the communication job in the memory is processed first to create free space in the memory. The take.

According to this configuration, when the communication job is reserved, the communication job is executed without determining whether or not the memory reception is performed. A situation in which information is forcibly discharged regardless of the operator's intention can be avoided as much as possible.

Further, in the power reducing method according to the ninth aspect of the present invention, the power supply to the main control means is cut off upon receiving an instruction to shift to the energy saving mode from the main control means for controlling the entire apparatus. A power reduction method for recovering power supply to the main control means upon detecting a power saving mode release factor, comprising: receiving a set time of timer communication together with a power saving mode shift instruction from the main control means; It is configured to monitor whether the time has reached the current time, and to return the power supply to the main control means when the set time has reached the current time.

According to this configuration, when the set time of the timer communication comes when the apparatus is in the energy saving mode, the sub-control means activates the main control means. Can perform timer communication.

Further, in the power reduction method according to the tenth aspect of the present invention, the power supply to the main control means is cut off upon receiving an instruction to shift to the energy saving mode from the main control means for controlling the entire apparatus. A power reduction method for restoring power supply to the main control means upon detecting an energy saving mode canceling factor, wherein the power supply to the main control means is cut off when an energy saving mode shift instruction is received from the main control means. A configuration is adopted in which a timer timeout is monitored for a predetermined period, and power supply to the main control means is restored by the timeout.

According to this configuration, the malfunction of the sub CPU in the energy saving mode can be detected and the operation of the sub CPU can be reset. Therefore, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the mode cannot be returned from the energy saving mode to the normal mode.

Further, in the power reduction method according to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, the power supply to the main control means is cut off upon receipt of an instruction to shift to the energy saving mode from the main control means for controlling the entire apparatus. A power reduction method for restoring power supply to the main control means upon detection of a power saving mode release factor, wherein the power supply to the main control means is cut off when a power saving mode shift instruction is received from the main control means. The power supply to the main control means is resumed by the time-out of the timer which has set the timer value of the above.After the return, the main control means is monitored for the presence or absence of the recording paper or the state of the memory. Notification to the effect.

With this configuration, the apparatus returns from the energy-saving mode to the normal mode periodically, and when there is no recording paper or the memory is full, an incoming call is detected to return to the normal mode. In this case, it is possible to avoid a situation in which reception is not possible.

Hereinafter, a facsimile apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG.
1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a facsimile apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the energy saving mode, the supply of power is cut off, and in the normal mode, the main CPU 1 controls the entire device. The main CPU 1 controls the entire main CPU 1, and transmits a power saving command to the sub CPU 6. A command generating unit 3 for generating a command to be transmitted to the main CPU unit 1, a host interface unit 4 for interfacing between the main CPU unit 1 and the sub CPU unit 6, and a data memory 5 for mainly storing energy saving mode release information. I have.

In the energy saving mode, the sub CPU unit 6 receives power supply, detects various energy saving canceling factors, and controls a panel unit such as an operation unit and a display unit in the normal mode.
Are a sub CPU control unit 7 for controlling the entire sub CPU unit 6, a panel interface unit 8 for interfacing the main CPU unit 1 with the sub CPU unit 6, and a sub C
A program memory 9 for storing a program for controlling the PU control unit 7 and a data memory 10 for mainly storing information for canceling the energy saving mode are provided.

The sub CPU section 6 includes a high frequency oscillator 11 as a clock generating element for operating the sub CPU control section 7, a low frequency oscillator 12 as a clock generating element for operating a clock function, Timer unit 13 for operating the timer function from the oscillator 11 for use, a watchdog timer unit 14 for operating the watchdog timer function from the oscillator for high frequency 11, and a watchdog timer mainly storing a counter in the watchdog timer function It has a control register 15 and a return circuit 16 for returning power supply to the main CPU unit regardless of the program when the program stored in the program memory 9 goes out of control.

The operation unit 17 sets communication such as timer communication, and the display unit 18 displays the status of the apparatus such as an error display to the operator. The power supply unit 19 supplies power to the main CPU unit 1, the sub CPU unit 6, and other functional blocks. The recording paper sensor 20 detects the presence or absence of recording paper,
The detection result is output to the main control unit 2.

Next, the operation of the facsimile apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 2 is an operation flowchart when timer communication is performed in the energy saving mode in the facsimile apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. On the main CPU unit 1 side, the operator makes a reservation for timer communication from the operation unit (step A).
1). Here, a date, transmission contents, and the like are input. Next, it is determined whether any operation has been performed by the set time (step A2). This is for shifting to the energy saving mode when no operation is performed for a predetermined time set after a certain operation is performed. Therefore, if any operation is performed, an operation based on the operation is performed, while if no operation is performed for a predetermined time, an energy saving command is set in the data memory 5 to shift to the energy saving mode (step A3).

Next, it is determined whether or not timer transmission has been registered (step A4). If timer communication has not been registered, the main CPU 1 transfers an energy saving command to the sub CPU 6 (step A6). ). On the other hand, when the timer communication is registered, the timer communication start time, that is, the energy saving mode release time is set in the data memory 5 (step A5). Therefore, in this case, the main CPU 1 transfers the energy saving command and the energy saving mode release time to the sub CPU 6.

On the sub CPU section 6 side, the main CPU section 1
By the energy saving command transferred from the main C
The power supply of the PU unit 1 is cut off (step B1). Thus, the main CPU 1 enters the energy saving mode state (step A7). On the other hand, the sub CPU 6 determines whether or not there is an energy saving mode canceling factor (step B).
2) If there is a factor to cancel the energy saving mode, the main CP
The power saving mode is canceled by supplying power to the U unit 1 (step A8).

If there is no factor for canceling the energy saving mode in step B2, it is determined whether there is a timer communication reservation (step B3). If there is no timer communication reservation, the process returns to the determination of the energy saving mode release factor again (step B2).

On the other hand, if there is a timer communication reservation, it is determined whether or not the current time is the timer communication reservation time (step B4). If the current time is not the timer communication reservation time, the process proceeds to step B2. If the current time is the timer communication reservation time, the switch between the power supply unit 19 and the main CPU unit 1 is turned on by an energy saving control signal command to supply power to the main CPU unit 1 (step B5), the energy saving mode is canceled (step A8). Then, the main CPU 1 performs a communication process (step A9).

As described above, in the facsimile apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention, when the set time of the timer communication is reached in the energy saving mode, the sub CPU 6 activates the main CPU 1. . Thus, even in the energy saving mode, the timer communication can be performed at the time set by the operator.

FIGS. 3 to 5 are operation flow charts for mutual monitoring between the main CPU unit 1 and the sub CPU unit 6 in the facsimile apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. When power is supplied to the sub CPU unit 6 (step C1), the sub CPU control unit 7 supplies power to the main CPU unit 1 by an energy saving control signal (step C2). Thereby, the power of the main CPU 1 is turned on (step D1).

When the power of the main CPU 1 is turned on,
It is determined whether or not any operation has been performed by the set time (step D2). If any operation has been performed, this determination is repeated. If no operation has been performed, an energy saving command is set in the data memory 5 (step D3), and the energy saving command set in the data memory 5 is stored in the sub C
The data is transferred to the PU unit 6 (step D4).

In the sub CPU section 6, the program memory 9
The program stored in is started (step C3),
At the same time the count of the watchdog timer is cleared (step C4), the soft timer is also cleared. Next, a watchdog timer detection time is set (step C5), and a time shorter than this set value is set in the soft timer. Next, the counter value of the soft timer is periodically detected, and it is determined whether the count value is within the watchdog timer detection time (step C6). If the time is within the watchdog timer detection time, the watchdog timer counter is cleared (step C7) and the soft timer is also cleared. Then, step C
Move to 6. In other words, since the count value of the soft timer is set shorter than the watchdog timer detection time,
As long as the sub CPU 6 is operating normally, the watchdog timer counter is periodically cleared.

On the other hand, if the count value of the soft timer exceeds the watchdog timer detection time, the watchdog counter is not cleared. That is, in this case, the sub C
Since the operation of the PU unit 6 is not normal, the watchdog timer counter is not cleared forever.

In the sub CPU section 6, step C3
The operation starting from step C8 is performed in parallel with the operation starting from. That is, the hardware in the sub CPU 6 starts (step C8), and adds 1 to the value of the watchdog timer counter (step C9). Next, it is determined whether or not the counter is equal to or longer than the watchdog timer detection time (step C10). If the counter is not equal to or longer than the watchdog timer detection time, the process proceeds to step C9.

On the other hand, if the counter is equal to or longer than the detection time of the watchdog timer, it is determined that the program stored in the program memory 9 is in a runaway or deadlock state.
Is reset, and the operation of the sub CPU unit 6 is restored (step C11). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step C4.

In the sub CPU section 6, step C3
The operation starting from step C12 is performed in parallel with the operation starting from. When the sub CPU unit 6 is started, it is monitored whether or not there is an interrupt (step C12). That is, it is determined whether or not data has been received from the outside (step C13). If no data has been received from the outside, the interruption is periodically monitored. On the other hand, when data is received from the outside, normal processing is performed.

In the normal processing, when the sub CPU 6 receives an energy saving command from the main CPU 1,
The power supply to the PU unit 1 is cut off (step C1).
4). As a result, the main CPU 1 enters the energy saving mode (step D5).

In the sub CPU 6, the program is started (step C15), and the watchdog timer count is cleared (step C16), and the soft timer is also cleared. Next, a watchdog timer detection time is set (step C17), and a time shorter than this set value is set in the soft timer. Next, the counter value of the soft timer is periodically detected, and it is determined whether or not the count value is within the watchdog timer detection time (step C18). If the time is within the watchdog timer detection time, the watchdog timer counter is cleared (step C19) and the soft timer is also cleared. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step C8.

On the other hand, if the count value of the soft timer exceeds the watchdog timer detection time, the watchdog counter is not cleared. That is, in this case, the sub C
Since the operation of the PU unit 6 is not normal, the watchdog timer counter is not cleared forever.

In the sub CPU section 6, step C1
In parallel with the operation starting from 5, the operation starting from step C20 is performed. That is, the hardware in the sub CPU unit 6 is activated (step C20), and 1 is added to the value of the watchdog timer counter (step C2).
1). Next, it is determined whether or not the counter is longer than the detection time of the watchdog timer (step C22). If the counter is shorter than the detection time of the watchdog timer, the count value of the watchdog timer is continuously added (step C21).

On the other hand, if the counter is equal to or longer than the watchdog timer detection time, it is determined that the program stored in the program memory 9 is in a runaway or deadlock state.
Since the unit 1 is inoperable, the return circuit 16 turns on a switch between the power supply unit 19 and the main CPU unit 1 to supply power to the main CPU unit 1 (step C).
23, C26). After that, the main CPU 1
The U section 6 is reset, and the sub CPU section 6 returns to the normal operation.

In the sub CPU section 6, step C1
In parallel with the operation starting from 5, the operation starting from step C24 is performed. When the sub CPU 6 starts, it monitors whether there is an interrupt (step C24). That is, it is determined whether or not an external energy-saving mode release factor has occurred (step C25). If no external energy-saving mode release factor has occurred, this determination is repeated. On the other hand, if an energy-saving mode release factor occurs from the outside, the process proceeds to step C26.

In step C26, the switch between the power supply section 19 and the main CPU section 1 is turned on by the energy saving control signal, and the power supply of the main CPU section 1 is restored (step C26). Thereby, the main CPU unit 1
Then, the energy saving mode is canceled (step D6).

As described above, in the facsimile apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention, as long as the soft timer operates normally, the watchdog timer is reset each time and does not time out. Does not reset the watchdog timer and times out. The power supply to the main CPU is forcibly restored by this timeout, so that even if the software in the sub CPU becomes abnormal, the main CPU can be started up, and the sub CPU becomes abnormal in the energy saving mode due to the abnormality. It is possible to avoid a situation where it is not possible to return to the normal mode.

FIGS. 6 and 7 are flowcharts showing the operation of the facsimile apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention for performing regular state monitoring performed by the main CPU. First, on the side of the main CPU 1, the operator or the service person periodically sets a timer value "T" for canceling the energy saving mode (step E1). This value can be arbitrarily set by an operator or a serviceman, and is a time for forcibly returning to the normal mode after shifting to the energy saving mode regardless of the presence or absence of the energy saving canceling factor. Next, it is determined whether any operation has been performed within a predetermined time set separately from the timer value (step E2). This predetermined time is a time for the determination because the mode is shifted to the energy saving mode when there is no operation for a certain time.

If any operation is performed within this predetermined time in step E2, the normal mode is maintained, and the routine goes to step E7. On the other hand, if no operation is performed within a predetermined time, the mode is shifted to the energy saving mode, so that the energy saving command and the energy saving mode release timer value set in step E1 are set in the data memory 5 (step E3). Is transferred to the sub CPU 6 (step E4).

On the other hand, the sub CPU 6 shuts off the power of the main CPU 1 by the energy saving command (step F1). As a result, the main CPU 1 enters the energy saving mode (step E5). The sub CPU 6 sets the energy saving mode release timer value "T" (step E6) and determines whether the timer has timed out (step F3). If the timer has not timed out, this determination is repeated. If the timer has timed out, the switch between the power supply unit 19 and the main CPU unit 1 is turned on by the energy saving control signal regardless of the presence or absence of the energy saving cancellation factor. Then, the power supply of the main CPU 1 is restored (step F4).

When the energy saving mode is released, the main CP
On the U section 1 side, the operation starting from step E7 is performed.

In step E7, it is monitored whether there is a recording sheet and whether the memory is full (step E7). Next, it is determined whether the memory is full (step E8). If the memory is not full, the received image information can be stored in the memory when there is an incoming call. On the other hand, when the memory is full, the image data received when there is an incoming call cannot be stored in the memory, and a situation occurs in which the image cannot be received.

First, it is determined whether or not a communication job has been reserved (step E9). If the communication job has been reserved, the process proceeds to step E11 in order to execute the communication job and create an empty area in the memory. . In this case, it is not determined whether or not the data is received in the memory. Generally, the memory reception is output according to the instruction of the operator, and forcibly discharging the data regardless of the operator's intention is not preferable due to the nature of the memory reception.

On the other hand, if the communication job has not been reserved, it is determined whether or not memory reception has been performed (step E10). If the memory has not been received, the process returns to the determination of whether to shift to the energy saving mode again (step E).
2). On the other hand, if memory reception is performed, in this case, priority is given to avoiding a situation where image information cannot be received due to memory full when there is an incoming call, and image information received in memory is forcibly applied. It is determined whether or not there is a recording sheet to output (step E11).

In step E11, if the operation is not possible, that is, if the communication job cannot be executed or the image information received in the memory cannot be discharged because there is no recording paper, an alarm is sounded and an error message is displayed by the LCD display. The user is prompted to cancel (step E12), and the process returns to the determination as to whether or not to shift to the energy saving mode again (step E12)
2). On the other hand, if the operation is possible in step E11, the communication job is executed or the image information received in the memory is discharged to make free space in the memory (step E11).
13), and return to the determination of whether or not to shift to the energy saving mode again (step E2).

Then, if no operation is performed for a predetermined time, the mode is again shifted to the energy saving mode. In this case, the mode shifts to the energy saving mode irrespective of whether the memory has free space or whether the recording paper has been replenished. This is because if it is not possible to shift to the energy saving mode until there is free space in the memory or the recording paper is replenished, the operator cannot shift to the energy saving mode even though the operator has set the energy saving mode. This is because a situation contrary to the intention of the person may occur.

As described above, in the facsimile apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention, the main CPU 1 sets the timer value and transfers the timer value to the sub CPU 6, so that the main CPU 1 can operate regardless of the occurrence of the energy saving mode canceling factor. The period during which the energy-saving mode is periodically released can be arbitrarily set from the main CPU unit 1, so that a flexible response is possible. Further, when an incoming call is detected and the mode is returned to the normal mode, it is possible to avoid a state where there is no recording paper or the memory is full and reception is not possible. Further, even when the energy saving mode is canceled by a factor other than the energy saving mode canceling factor, the cancellation period can be minimized, and the energy saving function of the apparatus can be fully utilized.

[0066]

As is apparent from the above description, according to the present invention, when the set time of the timer communication is reached in the energy saving mode, the sub control means activates the main control means. Even in the energy saving mode, the timer communication can be performed at the time set by the operator.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a facsimile apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an operation flow diagram when performing timer communication in the energy saving mode in the facsimile apparatus according to the above embodiment.

FIG. 3 is an operation flowchart of mutual monitoring between a main CPU unit and a sub CPU unit in the facsimile apparatus according to the embodiment.

FIG. 4 is an operation flowchart of mutual monitoring between a main CPU unit and a sub CPU unit in the facsimile apparatus according to the embodiment.

FIG. 5 is an operation flowchart of mutual monitoring between a main CPU unit and a sub CPU unit in the facsimile apparatus according to the embodiment.

FIG. 6 is an operation flowchart of periodic status monitoring performed by the main CPU in the facsimile apparatus according to the embodiment.

FIG. 7 is an operation flowchart of periodic status monitoring performed by the main CPU in the facsimile apparatus according to the embodiment.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Main CPU part 2 Main control part 3 Command generation part 4 Host interface part 5 Data memory 6 Sub CPU part 7 Sub CPU control part 8 Panel interface part 9 Program memory 10 Data memory 11 High frequency oscillator 12 Low frequency oscillator 13 Base timer section 14 Watchdog timer section 15 Watchdog timer control register 16 Return circuit 17 Operation section 18 Display section 19 Power supply section 20 Recording paper sensor

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[Procedure amendment]

[Submission date] December 27, 1999 (1999.12.
27)

[Procedure amendment 1]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] Claims

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

[Claims]

[Procedure amendment 2]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0066

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

[0066]

As is apparent from the above description, according to the present invention, control is performed using two types of timers having different counting periods.
Program runaway, or
Even in the locked state, release the energy saving mode without fail.
Migration is possible. Also, the facsimile machine cannot receive
In the energy-saving mode
Therefore, even if the operator has set the energy saving mode,
Operator that cannot switch to energy saving mode regardless of
Can prevent the occurrence of situations contrary to the will of
You.

Claims (11)

[Claims] A main control means for controlling the entire apparatus;
A power supply to the main control means is cut off in response to an instruction to shift to the energy saving mode from the main control means, and a sub control means for restoring the power supply to the main control means when the power saving mode release factor is detected after the cutoff. The main control means transmits the set time of the timer communication together when transmitting the energy saving mode shift instruction to the sub control means, and the sub control means sets the set time to the current time after shifting to the energy saving mode. A facsimile apparatus for monitoring whether or not the power supply to the main control unit has been resumed when the set time reaches a current time. 2. Main control means for controlling the entire apparatus;
A power supply to the main control means is cut off in response to an instruction to shift to the energy saving mode from the main control means, and a sub control means for returning the power supply to the main control means when the power saving mode release factor is detected after the cutoff. When the sub-control unit receives an instruction to shift to the energy-saving mode from the main control unit, the sub-control unit shuts off power supply to the main control unit, and thereafter monitors a timeout of a timer for a predetermined period. A facsimile apparatus, wherein power supply to the facsimile is restored. 3. Main control means for controlling the entire apparatus;
The power supply to the main control means is cut off in response to an instruction to shift to the energy saving mode from the main control means. When a power saving mode canceling factor is detected after the cutoff, the power supply to the main control means is restored. Sub-control means having a first timer for counting a first period for forcibly restoring power supply after power supply to the means is stopped and a second timer for counting a second period shorter than the first period The sub-control means cuts off the power supply to the main control means when receiving the energy saving mode shift instruction from the main control means, and after the cut-off, the second control means
A facsimile apparatus wherein the first timer is reset every time the timer times out, and when the first timer times out, the power supply to the main control means is forcibly restored. 4. The second timer is a soft timer, and the first timer is constituted by a hardware circuit.
4. The facsimile apparatus according to claim 3, wherein a timeout occurs due to no reset by the timer, the software in the sub control means is determined to be abnormal, and power supply to the main control means is forcibly restored. 5. A main control means for controlling the entire apparatus,
Sub-control means for interrupting power supply to the main control means in response to an instruction to shift to the energy saving mode from the main control means, and returning to the main control means when an energy saving mode canceling factor is detected after the interruption. When the sub control unit receives an instruction to shift to the energy saving mode from the main control unit, the sub control unit shuts off power supply to the main control unit, and supplies power to the main control unit by a time-out of a timer set to a predetermined timer value. And restore
After the return, the main control means monitors whether or not the reception is possible, and if the reception is not possible, notifies the facsimile apparatus of the fact. 6. Main control means for controlling the entire apparatus,
Sub-control means for interrupting power supply to the main control means in response to an instruction to shift to the energy saving mode from the main control means, and returning to the main control means when an energy saving mode canceling factor is detected after the interruption. When the sub-control means receives an instruction to shift to the energy-saving mode from the main control means, the sub-control means cuts off the power supply to the main control means, and resumes the power supply to the main control means by a time-out of a timer set to a predetermined value. After the return, the main control means monitors whether or not the reception is possible. If the reception is not possible, the main control means notifies the reception of the reception. A facsimile apparatus for transmitting an energy-saving mode shift instruction to a control unit. 7. Main control means for controlling the entire apparatus,
Sub-control means for interrupting power supply to the main control means in response to an instruction to shift to the energy saving mode from the main control means, and returning to the main control means when an energy saving mode canceling factor is detected after the interruption. When the sub-control means receives a timer value for periodically canceling the energy-saving mode together with the energy-saving mode shift instruction from the main control means, cuts off power supply to the main control means,
The timer value is counted, the power supply to the main control unit is restored by timeout, and after the return, the main control unit monitors whether or not it is in a receivable state. A facsimile machine. 8. Main control means for controlling the entire apparatus,
Sub-control means for interrupting power supply to the main control means in response to an instruction to shift to the energy saving mode from the main control means, and returning to the main control means when an energy saving mode canceling factor is detected after the interruption. When the sub control unit receives an instruction to shift to the energy saving mode from the main control unit, the sub control unit shuts off power supply to the main control unit, and supplies power to the main control unit by a time-out of a timer set to a predetermined timer value. And restore
After the return, the main control means monitors whether or not the memory is in a state. If the memory cannot be received due to the memory full state, the transmission data in the memory is first processed to make free space in the memory. Facsimile machine. 9. A power supply to said main control means is cut off in response to an instruction to shift to an energy saving mode from a main control means for controlling the entire apparatus. A power reduction method for restoring supply, comprising receiving a set time of timer communication together with an energy saving mode shift instruction from the main control unit, and monitoring whether the set time has become a current time after shifting to the energy saving mode, When the set time reaches the current time, the power supply to the main control unit is restored. 10. A power supply to the main control means is cut off in response to an instruction to shift to the energy saving mode from the main control means for controlling the entire apparatus, and when a power saving mode release factor is detected after the cutoff, the power supply to the main control means is cut off. A power reduction method for restoring power supply, wherein when an instruction to shift to an energy saving mode is received from the main control means, power supply to the main control means is cut off, and thereafter, a timeout of a timer is monitored for a predetermined period of time, and the main A power reduction method characterized by returning power supply to a control means. 11. A power supply to the main control means is cut off in response to an instruction to shift to an energy saving mode from a main control means for controlling the entire apparatus. A power reduction method for restoring power supply, wherein upon receiving an instruction to shift to an energy saving mode from the main control means, power supply to the main control means is cut off, and the main control means Power supply to the power supply, and after the return, the main control means monitors whether or not it is in a receivable state.