JP2002229395A - Electronic device, image forming device and recording medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To combine saving of energy and high operability in an image forming device. SOLUTION: In the image forming device provided with a function to transit to a save energy mode, a save energy mode transition inhibiting key 24 is provided and when the save energy mode transition inhibiting key 24 is operated, the transition to the save energy mode is inhibited. Furthermore, when the save energy mode transition inhibition key 24 is operated again in the state where the transition to the save energy mode is inhibited, the inhibition for the transition to the save energy mode is released.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an electronic apparatus having a function of shifting to a power saving mode, and more particularly, to an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine, a printer, a facsimile apparatus, and a digital multifunction peripheral having these functions, and to an electronic apparatus having these functions. The present invention relates to a recording medium storing a program readable by a device and a computer built in an image forming apparatus.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In order to save power, if a non-operation state continues for a preset time without any operation and no input, power supply to a portion with large power consumption is stopped,
2. Description of the Related Art Electronic devices that automatically turn off power have been known. For example, in an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, when the next operation is not performed for a certain period of time after the completion of image formation, the temperature of the fixing unit is lowered, or operations other than the control unit are stopped to shift to a power saving mode. Is performed.

[0003] However, in such an image forming apparatus, the operation may be shifted to the power saving mode while the operation is troublesome, and the setting is cleared in the power saving mode. There was a problem of bad. In order to solve such a problem, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 7-129042 discloses that a power supply is controlled by a flag that toggles by key input, and if the key is operated in advance, the power supply immediately after the operation is completed. There is disclosed an image forming apparatus capable of cutting off the power supply and not turning off the power supply during use.

[0004]

However, in such a device, the power is turned off after the operation is completed by the user's key operation, so that the operation is not automatically shifted to the power saving mode, and the key operation is forgotten. In such a case, there is a problem that the power is turned on and the power is wasted, so that power is wasted. By the way, in recent years, the demand for power saving has become stronger and stronger, for example, a standard called ZESM (Zero Energy Standby Mode) has been established by the United States Environment Agency. According to this standard, it is required to shift to a power saving mode before a state in which no operation or operation of the apparatus is continued for 10 seconds. In addition, when a return trigger such as an operation or data input is issued, it is also required to return to the normal mode and perform an operation within 10 seconds thereafter.

In an electronic device that conforms to the standard for shifting to the power saving mode in such a short time, the operation shifts to the power saving mode in the meantime even if a little time is taken for the operation, and the operating conditions such as operating conditions set in advance. The contents may be cleared. In such a case, the mode settings and the like are cleared. Therefore, after returning from the power saving mode, the setting operation has to be performed again, so that there is a problem that the operability is significantly reduced. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to solve the above-described problems and achieve both power saving and high operability of an electronic device and an image forming apparatus.

[0006]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides an electronic apparatus or an image forming apparatus having a function of shifting to a power saving mode. Means for prohibiting shifting to the power saving mode when the prohibition key is operated. Further, it is preferable to provide means for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode when the above-mentioned power saving mode shifting prohibition key is operated again while the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited.

In such an image forming apparatus, when the mode clear key for returning the setting of the apparatus to a predetermined state is operated in a state where the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited, the mode is switched to the power saving mode. Means for canceling the shift prohibition may be provided. Alternatively, the means for measuring time and the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode are released when the non-operation state in which no operation or input is performed and the shifting to the power saving mode is prohibited is continued for a preset time. Means may be provided. Also, in a state in which the paper output unit paper surface sensor that detects the presence or absence of paper in the paper output unit and in which the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited,
Means may be provided for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode when the paper output section paper surface sensor detects that there is no paper in the paper output section from the state where the paper is not present.

Alternatively, a human body detection sensor for detecting the presence or absence of a human body in the vicinity of the apparatus, a time measuring means for measuring time, and the human body detection sensor for a predetermined period of time in a state in which shifting to the power saving mode is prohibited. Means may be provided for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode when no human body is detected. A timer for measuring time, a warning unit for issuing a warning to a user, and a non-operation state in which no operation or input is performed in a state in which the transition to the power saving mode is prohibited for a predetermined time. Means for giving a warning to the warning means, and means for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode when the non-operation state without any operation or input has continued for a predetermined time after the warning was given. It may be provided. Further, it is preferable to provide a means for displaying the remaining time from when the warning is issued to when the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is released. In these image forming apparatuses, it is preferable to provide a unit that immediately shifts the apparatus to the power saving mode when the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is released.

The present invention also provides the following computer-readable recording medium to achieve the above object. That is, a computer that has a function of shifting to the power saving mode and has an electronic device equipped with the power saving mode shifting prohibition key is configured to shift to the power saving mode when the above power saving mode shifting prohibition key is operated. A recording medium on which a program for functioning as a prohibiting means is recorded. A computer that has a function to shift to the power saving mode and has a power saving mode shift prohibition key is prohibited from shifting to the power saving mode when the above power saving mode shift prohibition key is operated. A recording medium on which a program for causing a computer to function as a means for executing the program is recorded.

[0010] The computer functions as a means for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode when the power saving mode shifting prohibition key is operated again while the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited. A recording medium that also records programs. A recording medium which also records a program for causing the computer to function as means for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode when the mode clear key is operated in a state where the shifting to the power saving mode is prohibited. The above-mentioned computer functions as means for canceling the prohibition of the transition to the power saving mode when the non-operation state without any operation or input continues for a preset time while the transition to the power saving mode is prohibited. Recording medium that also stores programs for

In a state in which the computer is prohibited from shifting to the power saving mode, the paper sensor of the paper discharge unit for detecting the presence or absence of paper in the paper discharge unit changes from a state where there is no paper in the paper discharge unit to a state where there is no paper. A recording medium which also records a program for functioning as a means for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode when detecting that the power saving mode has been detected. If the human body detection sensor for detecting the presence or absence of a human body around the apparatus does not detect a human body for a predetermined period of time while the computer is prohibited from shifting to the power saving mode, the computer shifts to the power saving mode. A recording medium that also records a program for functioning as a means for releasing prohibition.

Means for causing the warning means to give a warning when the non-operation state in which no operation or input is performed for a preset time period while the transition to the power saving mode is prohibited, and A recording medium that also records a program for functioning as a means for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode when a non-operation state in which no operation or input is performed for a predetermined time after the warning is issued. A recording medium that also records a program for causing the computer to function as a unit that causes a display unit to display the remaining time from when the warning is issued to when the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is released. A recording medium in which a program for causing each of the computers to function as a means for causing the apparatus to immediately shift to the power saving mode when the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is released is recorded on these recording media.

[0013]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. [First Embodiment] First, the structure of a digital copying machine which is a first embodiment of an electronic apparatus and an image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a plan view showing the appearance of an operation display unit of the digital copying machine, FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the digital copying machine, and FIG.
1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the entire digital copying machine.

As shown in FIG. 3, the digital copying machine includes an image forming section 4, an image reading section 5, two-stage paper feed trays 9a and 9b, and an operation display section 8. 8
The image forming section 4 reads the image of the original read by the image reading section 5 in accordance with a user instruction from
This is an apparatus for forming an image on a sheet fed from a, 9b. Then, as shown in FIG. 2, the image forming unit 4 is connected to the first input / output interface 6 and the image reading unit 5 is connected to the second input / output interface 6.
Control unit 3 via input / output interface 7 of
Are connected to the CPU 11.

The power supply circuit 2 is supplied with power from a commercial power supply via a plug 1a and a power supply cord 1b, and performs voltage transformation and rectification on the power supply circuit 2.
AC or DC necessary for the components constituting the digital copying machine, that is, the control unit 3, the image forming unit 4, the image reading unit 5, the first and second input / output interfaces 6, 7, the operation display unit 8, etc. Power supply. Further, the power supply circuit 2 is controlled by the CPU 11 of the control unit 3, and shifts to a power saving mode described later, inhibits shifting, cancels shifting inhibition, and the like.

The control unit 3 includes a CPU 11, a RAM 12,
The control unit controls the entire copying machine, and is a computer built in the copying machine serving as the image forming apparatus. The CPU 11 is a central control device that executes a control program stored in the ROM 13 to process control codes and image data.
The overall control of this device is performed. The RAM 12 is a random access memory, and is used as a work memory used when the CPU 11 performs data processing, an image memory for storing image data, and the like. The ROM 13 is a read-only memory and stores control programs, fixed data, and the like used for data processing and management by the CPU 11, control of peripheral devices, and the like. By configuring the ROM 13 with an electrically erasable / writable EEPROM or flash memory, it becomes possible to update the control program in the market.

The CPU 11 inputs the image data of the document read by the image reading section 5 through the first input / output interface 6 and stores it in the image memory of the RAM 12 to perform various corrections and designated processing. After that, the image data is output to the image forming unit 4 via the second input / output interface 7 to perform image formation. The operation display unit 8 includes a liquid crystal display panel (LC
D) and an operation member such as operation keys and buttons. The operation unit 8 is also connected to the CPU 11, and an input signal from an operation of an operation key or the like of the operation unit 8 is C
The data is input to the PU 11 and processed. The user performs operations such as operation mode setting, a job start command, and power ON / OFF using the operation display unit 8, which will be described later.

This digital copying machine has a power saving mode (ZESM mode) corresponding to the ZESM standard.
When the non-operation state without any operation or input continues for 10 seconds, the CPU 11 controls the power supply circuit 2 to stop supplying power to parts other than the control unit 3 and the operation display unit 8 and shift to the power saving mode. I do. If there is any return trigger such as operation of the operation display unit 8 in the power saving mode, C
The PU 11 controls the power supply circuit 2 to restart power supply to each unit, and returns to a normal operation mode capable of forming an image within 10 seconds from the return trigger.

As shown in FIG. 1, a mode clear key 21, a start key 22, a power key 23,
It is provided with various operation keys such as a power saving mode shift prohibition key 24 and a numeric keypad 25, and a display unit 26 by LCD. The mode clear key 21 is a key for returning the setting of the apparatus to a predetermined state, the start key 22 is a key for instructing the start of a copy operation, and the power key 23 is for turning off the power.
A key for performing N / OFF, a numeric keypad 25 is a key for inputting numbers such as the number of copies.

The power saving mode shift prohibition key 24 is a key for prohibiting shifting to the power saving mode.
When this key is pressed, the CPU 11 prohibits the shift to the power saving mode. That is, the aforementioned power supply circuit 2
Is not controlled for shifting to the power saving mode. The LCD display unit 26 is a display unit that displays information such as messages and settings. Further, a touch panel is stacked, and the user can perform an operation by touching the touch panel according to the display content of the display unit 26.

Next, a first operation example (basic operation example) relating to the power saving mode in the digital copying machine will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a processing example of the power saving mode transition operation and the power saving mode transition prohibition operation in this embodiment. This digital copying machine starts the processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 4 when there is no job being executed or scheduled to be executed. First, in step S1, it is determined whether or not the power saving mode transition prohibition state is set. If not, the process proceeds to step S2 to reset the power saving mode transition timer counter and start time measurement. The power-saving mode transition timer counter is a software timer for the CPU 11 to count the internal clock, but a dedicated clock means (timer) may be provided.

Next, the process proceeds to step S3 to determine whether or not any input has been made. In this embodiment,
The input indicates a key input from the operation display unit 8. However, when the present invention is applied to a digital multifunction peripheral which is an image forming apparatus having a function of a facsimile or a printer, a communication line or a local area network (LAN) is used. It also includes data reception from a connected external device. The same applies to the following embodiments. If there is no input in step S3, the process proceeds to step S4 to determine whether or not the count time of the power saving mode transition timer counter is equal to or longer than a specified time (time within 10 seconds). Proceeding to S5, the apparatus shifts to the above-described power saving mode and ends. If it is not longer than the specified time in step S4, the process returns to step S3 and repeats the above-described processing.

If there is any input in step S3, the flow advances to step S6 to determine whether the input is an operation of the power saving mode shift prohibition key 24. If the operation is the operation of the power saving mode shift prohibition key 24, the process proceeds to step S7 to prohibit shifting to the power saving mode, and then returns to step S1. If it is not an operation of the power saving mode shift prohibition key 24 in step S6, the process returns to step S1. At this time, the operation according to the input (display, job, etc.)
Is executed in another flow not shown. Here, CPU
Numeral 11 serves as a unit for prohibiting the shift to the power saving mode when the power saving mode shift prohibition key is operated. In step S1, if the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited, the process ends.

According to the above processing, when the power saving mode shift prohibition key 24 is operated during the execution of this flow, that is, while waiting for shifting to the power saving mode, the shift to the power saving mode is set to be prohibited and the power saving mode is set. This is a state in which the shift to the power mode is not performed. Therefore, when the user intends to continue using the copying machine, the power saving mode shift prohibition key 2
By operating step 4, even if it takes time to set copy conditions or prepare a document, it is not necessary to shift to the power saving mode during that time, so that operability can be improved.

The program for performing such processing may be stored in the ROM 13 of the control unit 3 shown in FIG. 2 from the beginning. You can also. The CPU reads out this program from the memory and executes the program, thereby functioning as a unit that prohibits the transition to the power saving mode when the power saving mode transition prohibition key is operated. Further, by updating the program recorded in the ROM 13 with the program recorded in the recording medium, the digital copying machine can be provided with such a function later. In this embodiment, an example has been described in which the power saving mode shift prohibition key 24 is a mechanical key having an operation member to be pressed. However, the form of the key is not limited to this. Alternatively, it may be a touch key on a touch panel, or may not necessarily be provided on the operation display unit 8. This is the same for the following embodiments.

Next, a second operation example regarding the power saving mode of the digital copying machine will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6 are flowcharts showing the processing of the power saving mode transition operation, the power saving mode transition prohibition operation, and the release operation thereof, and FIG. 6 shows the processing subsequent to FIG. The feature of the second operation example relating to the power saving mode is that, when the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited while the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited, the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is released. It is the point that it did.

This digital copying machine starts the processing shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 5 and 6 when there is no job being executed or no job scheduled to be executed. First, in step S11, it is determined whether or not the power saving mode transition prohibition state is set. If not, the process proceeds to step S12, where the power saving mode transition timer counter is reset and time measurement is started. Next, the process proceeds to step S13 to determine whether or not any input has been made. If there is no input, the process proceeds to step S14 to determine whether or not the count time of the power saving mode transition timer counter is equal to or longer than a specified time (time within 10 seconds).
Proceeding to 5, the apparatus is shifted to the above-described power saving mode, and the processing ends. If it is not longer than the specified time in step S14, the process returns to step S13 to repeat the above processing.

If there is any input in step S13, the flow advances to step S16 to determine whether the input is an operation of the power saving mode shift prohibition key. If it is an operation of the power saving mode shift prohibition key, step S1
Proceeding to step S7, prohibiting shifting to the power saving mode, and then returning to step S11. If it is not an operation of the power saving mode shift prohibition key in step S16, the process returns to step S11. At this time, the operation according to the input (display, job, etc.)
Is executed in another flow not shown. Here, CPU
Numeral 11 serves as a unit for prohibiting the shift to the power saving mode when the power saving mode shift prohibition key is operated. If the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited in step S11, the process proceeds to step S21 shown in FIG.

In step S21, it is determined whether or not the power saving mode shift prohibition key 24 has been operated again. If the key 24 has been operated, the flow advances to step S22 to release the shift to the power saving mode, and the process returns to step S11 in FIG. Return and repeat the above process. If the power saving mode transition prohibition key 24 has not been operated again in step S21, the process waits until it is operated again. Note that, even during this standby, if there is another input, a process according to the input is performed by another flow (not shown). Here, "again" means that the power saving mode shift prohibition key 24 is once operated to prohibit shifting to the power saving mode in step S17 of FIG. 5, and then the power saving mode shift prohibition key 24 is operated again. That means. Here, when the CPU 11 prohibits the transition to the power saving mode when the transition to the power saving mode is prohibited, when the power saving mode transition prohibition key 24 is operated again, the CPU 11 serves as a unit for canceling the prohibition of the transition to the power saving mode.

With the above processing, the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited again while the shifting to the power saving mode is prohibited.
If is pressed, the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is released. Therefore, after the user prohibits the transition to the power saving mode during use, when the prohibition is no longer necessary, the transition to the power saving mode is prohibited by a simple operation of simply pressing the power saving mode transition prohibition key 24 again. Can be canceled,
Power consumption can be reduced by the power saving mode while maintaining operability. A program for performing such processing may be stored in the ROM 13 of the control unit 3 shown in FIG. 2 from the beginning, but may be provided by being recorded in a memory such as another ROM as a recording medium. it can. And CP
U reads out this program from the memory and executes the program to prohibit shifting to the power saving mode when the power saving mode shift prohibition key is operated, and prohibit shifting to the power saving mode. If the power saving mode shift prohibition key is operated again in this state, it functions as a means for canceling the shift to the power saving mode. Further, by updating the program recorded in the ROM 13 with the program recorded in the recording medium, the digital copying machine can be provided with such a function later.

Next, a third operation example regarding the power saving mode of the digital copying machine will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 7 is a flowchart different from that of FIG. The feature of the third operation example regarding the power saving mode is that the prohibition of the transition to the power saving mode is released when the mode clear key is operated in the state where the transition to the power saving mode is prohibited. This digital copying machine starts the processing shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 5 and 7 when there is no job being executed or no job scheduled to be executed. Of these, the part shown in FIG. 5 is exactly the same as the processing described in the second operation example described above.
The description is omitted.

If the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited in step S11 of FIG. 5, step S3 of FIG.
Proceed to 1. In step S31, the mode clear key 21
It is determined whether or not has been operated, and if it has been operated, the process proceeds to step S32 to perform a mode clear process of returning the device settings to a predetermined state. In step S33, the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is released. The process returns to step S11 of step 5, and the subsequent processing is repeated. If the mode clear key 21 has not been operated in step S31, the process waits until the mode clear key 21 is operated. Note that, even during this standby, if there is another input, a process according to the input is performed by another flow (not shown). Here, when the mode clear key 21 is operated in a state where the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited, the CPU 11 plays a role of a unit for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode.

With the above processing, when the mode clear key 21 is pressed in a state where the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited, the shift to the power saving mode is canceled. Therefore, after the user prohibits the transition to the power saving mode during use, when the prohibition is no longer necessary, the user only needs to press the mode clear key 21 to prohibit the transition to the power saving mode simultaneously with the mode clearing process. Can be canceled, thereby reducing power consumption in the power saving mode while maintaining operability. In particular, at the end of use, it is common to operate the mode clear key for the next user to release the settings made by the user, and therefore, by operating the mode clear key, release the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode at the same time. Is effective.

The program for performing such processing may be stored in the ROM 13 of the control unit 3 shown in FIG. 2 from the beginning, but it is necessary to provide the program by recording it in another memory such as a ROM as a recording medium. Get out. The CPU reads out this program from the memory and executes the program, thereby prohibiting the shift to the power saving mode when the power saving mode shift prohibition key is operated, and prohibiting the shift to the power saving mode. When the mode clear key is operated in the state of being turned on, it functions as a means for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode. Further, by updating the program recorded in the ROM 13 with the program recorded in the recording medium, the digital copying machine can be provided with such a function later.

Next, a fourth operation example regarding the power saving mode of the digital copying machine will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a continuation of FIG. 5 and different from FIGS. 6 and 7. The feature of the fourth operation example is that, when the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited and the non-operation state without any operation or input continues for a preset time, the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited. The point is to release. This digital copying machine starts the processing shown in the flow charts of FIGS. 5 and 8 when there is no job being executed or scheduled to be executed. Of these, the part shown in FIG. 5 is exactly the same as the processing described in the above-described second operation example, and therefore the description thereof is omitted.

If the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited in step S11 of FIG. 5, step S4 of FIG.
Proceed to 1. In step S41, the shift prohibition release timer counter is reset and time measurement is started. here,
The shift prohibition release timer counter is a time counting means using a software timer in which the CPU 11 counts the internal clock. However, a time counting means (timer) may be provided separately from the CPU 11. Next, the process proceeds to step S42 to determine whether there is any input, and if so, the process returns to step S41 to reset the shift prohibition release timer counter again and start measuring time from zero.

If there is no input in step S42, the flow advances to step S43 to determine whether or not the count value of the shift prohibition release timer counter is larger than a predetermined time. The predetermined time is set in advance to an arbitrary time, for example, 30 seconds, 1 minute, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, etc., but is set to 5 minutes in this example.
If the count value is larger than the predetermined time, it is recognized that the use has been completed by the user, the process proceeds to step S44, and the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is canceled, and the process returns to step S11 in FIG. If the count value has not reached the predetermined time, the process returns to step S42 to repeat the processing.

Here, the CPU 11 releases the prohibition of the transition to the power saving mode when the non-operation state without any operation or input continues for a preset time while the transition to the power saving mode is prohibited. Act as a means to Note that the predetermined time in step S43 can be set to an appropriate value according to the operation state of the device and the usage pattern of the user, but is a time sufficiently longer than the “specified time” measured by the power saving mode transition timer counter. It is necessary to keep it. By the above processing, when the shift to the power saving mode is left for a preset time while the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited, the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is released. Therefore, even if the user prohibits shifting to the power saving mode during use and forgets to release the shifting prohibition, and leaves the device, the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode can be canceled after a predetermined time. The effect of reducing power consumption by the mode can be effectively used.

A program for performing such processing may be stored in the ROM 13 of the control unit 3 shown in FIG. 2 from the beginning, but is provided by being recorded in a memory such as another ROM as a recording medium. You can also. And CPU
Means for reading the program from the memory and executing the program, thereby prohibiting the transition to the power saving mode when the power saving mode transition prohibition key is operated, and prohibiting the transition to the power saving mode. And functions as a means for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode when the non-operation state without any operation or input continues for a preset time. In addition, the program stored in the ROM 13
By updating the program recorded in the digital copying machine, the digital copying machine can be provided with such a function later.

Next, a fifth operation example regarding the power saving mode of the digital copying machine will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a process subsequent to FIG. 5 and different from FIGS. 6, 7 and 8. The feature of the fifth operation example is that it includes all the functions of the above-described first to fourth operation examples. When there is no job being executed or scheduled to be executed, the digital copying machine starts the processing shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. Of these, the part shown in FIG. 5 is exactly the same as the processing described in the second embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted.

If it is determined in step S11 in FIG. 5 that the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited, the process proceeds to step S5 in FIG.
Proceed to 1. In step S51, the transition prohibition release timer counter is reset and time measurement is started. Then
Proceeding to step S52, the power saving mode shift prohibition key 24
It is determined whether or not has been operated again, and if it has been operated, the process proceeds to step S57 to cancel the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode, returns to step S11 in FIG. 5, and repeats the subsequent processing. If the power saving mode transition prohibition key 24 has not been operated again in step S52, the process proceeds to step S53.

In step S53, the mode clear key 2
It is determined whether or not 1 has been operated, and if it has been operated, the process proceeds to step S56 to perform a mode clear process of returning the device settings to a predetermined state, and then cancels the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode in step S57. And step S11 in FIG.
And the subsequent processing is repeated. If the mode clear key 21 has not been operated in step S53, the process proceeds to step S53.
Proceed to 54. In step S54, it is determined whether or not there has been any input other than the operation of the power saving mode shift prohibition key 24 and the operation of the mode clear key 21, and if there is no input, the process proceeds to step S55, where the count value of the shift prohibition release timer counter is set to the predetermined time. Determine if it is greater than The predetermined time is set in advance, but is set to 5 minutes in this example. If the count value is longer than the predetermined time, it is recognized that the user has finished using the device, and the process proceeds to step S57, in which the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is canceled, and the process proceeds to step S1 in FIG.
Return to 1. If the count value is equal to or shorter than the predetermined time, the process returns to step S52 to repeat the processing.

If there is an input in step S54,
Returning to step S51, the shift prohibition release timer counter is reset again, and time measurement is started from zero. In this flow, when the CPU 11 prohibits the shift to the power saving mode, the power saving mode shift prohibition key is operated again, the mode clear key is operated, or no operation is input. If no non-operation state continues for a preset time, it serves as a means for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode. By performing the above processing, the user prohibits the transition to the power saving mode at the time of use, and then cancels the prohibition of the transition by re-operating the power saving mode transition prohibition key or operating the mode clear key. Can be selected, and even if the user forgets to release the shift prohibition and leaves the copying machine, the shift to the power saving mode can be canceled after a predetermined period of time, improving operability and improving the power saving mode. Thus, the effect of reducing power consumption can be effectively used.

A program for performing such processing may be stored in the ROM 13 of the control unit 3 shown in FIG. 2 from the beginning, but is provided by being recorded in a memory such as another ROM as a recording medium. You can do it. Then, when the CPU reads out this program from the memory and executes the program to thereby prohibit the transition to the power saving mode, and if the power saving mode transition prohibition key is operated again,
When either the mode clear key is operated or when the non-operation state in which no operation or input is performed continues for a preset time, the function as a means for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is provided. Further, by updating the program recorded in the ROM 13 with the program recorded in the recording medium, the digital copying machine can be provided with such a function later.

[Second Embodiment] Next, a digital copying machine according to a second embodiment of the electronic apparatus and the image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described. First, FIGS. 10 to 1
3, the configuration of the digital copying machine will be described. FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the digital copying machine.
FIG. 11 is a schematic sectional view showing an example of a paper surface sensor provided in the digital copying machine, FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the digital copying machine, and FIG. 13 is a plan view of an operation display unit of the digital copying machine. is there.

The digital copying machine of this embodiment is similar to that of FIG.
As shown in FIG. 7, a paper output unit paper surface sensor 31 is provided in the paper output unit 30 of the image forming unit 4, and a human body detection sensor 32 is provided in the center of the front surface of the operation display unit 18 as shown in FIGS. The only difference from the digital copying machine of the first embodiment is that the description of the other components is omitted. The paper discharge section paper surface sensor 31 is a sensor for detecting the presence or absence of a paper sheet in the paper discharge section 30, and as shown in FIG.
This is a reflection type photo sensor in which a and the light receiving element 31b are arranged on the same plane. The light emitting element 31a is a light emitting diode (LED) that emits infrared light when a current is applied.
As 1b, a photodiode, a phototransistor, a photo IC or the like that generates a current when receiving the infrared light is used.

When there is no paper in the paper discharge unit 30 provided with such a paper surface sensor 31 as shown in FIG. 11 (a), the infrared light emitted from the light emitting element 31a is not reflected and thus the light receiving element No light enters 31b, and no current flows. on the other hand,
As shown in FIG. 11B, when the paper 41 is present in the paper discharge unit 30, the infrared light emitted from the light emitting element 31a is reflected by the lower surface of the paper 41 and enters the light receiving element 31b.
Electric current flows. The discharge unit paper surface sensor 31 detects the presence or absence of a sheet in the discharge unit 30 based on the current.

Here, the example in which the paper surface sensor 31 of the paper discharge unit is a reflection type photosensor is shown, but the light emitting element 31a
It is also possible to use a transmission type photo sensor in which the light receiving element 31b and the light receiving element 31b face each other with the paper discharge unit 30 interposed therebetween, a mechanical micro switch, or the like. As shown in the block diagram of FIG. 12, since the paper output unit paper surface sensor 31 is connected to the image forming unit 4, information detected by the paper output unit paper surface sensor 31 is transmitted to the image forming unit 4 and the first input / output interface. 6 to the CPU 11. Power for driving the paper surface sensor 31 is supplied from the image forming unit 4.

On the other hand, the human body detection sensor 32 is a sensor for detecting the presence or absence of a human body around the apparatus, and is a reflection type photo sensor similar to the paper surface sensor 31. The human body detection sensor 32 can detect that the user (human body) approaches or moves away from the copying machine based on a change in the amount of reflected light received by the light receiving element. As shown in the block diagram of FIG. 12, since the human body detection sensor 32 is provided in the display operation unit 18, information detected by the human body detection sensor 32 is input to the CPU 11 via the operation display unit 18. The power for driving the human body detection sensor 32 is supplied from the display operation unit 18.

Next, the digital copying machine according to the second embodiment shifts to the power saving mode of a sixth operation example relating to the power saving mode (operation example numbers are consecutive numbers from the first embodiment). FIG. 5 shows the prohibition operation and its release operation.
This will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the processing subsequent to FIG. 5 in this operation example. The feature of this sixth operation example is that the paper output sensor 30 detects that the paper 4
1 is that the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is released when it is detected that the state 1 has changed from a certain state to a non-state.

This digital copying machine starts the processing shown in the flow charts of FIGS. 5 and 14 when there is no job being executed or scheduled to be executed. Of these, the part shown in FIG. 5 is exactly the same as the processing described in the second operation example, and thus the description thereof is omitted. Step S in FIG.
If the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited in step 11, the process proceeds to step S61 in FIG. Step S6
At 1, it is determined whether or not the paper sensor 31 of the paper discharge unit detects a paper. If it has not been detected, it waits until it is detected, and if it has, it proceeds to step S62. Also in step S62, it is determined whether or not the paper output sensor 31 detects a sheet. This time, if it has been detected, it waits until it is no longer detected.
Then, the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is released, and the process returns to step S11 in FIG. 5 to continue the subsequent processing.

That is, in the sixth operation example,
When the paper output sensor 31 changes from a state where the paper 41 is detected to a state where the paper 41 is not detected, the user takes out the paper 41 on which an image is formed and is discharged to the paper discharge unit 30 and copies the paper 41. It is determined that the use of the device has been completed, and the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is released at this time. Here C
In a state in which the PU 11 is in a state in which the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited, when the paper output unit paper surface sensor detects that the state in which the paper is present in the paper discharge unit is changed to a state in which the sheet is not present, the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited. It functions as a means to release. By performing the above processing, when the user takes out the sheet on which the image has been formed from the paper output unit 30, the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is automatically released, so that it is not necessary to perform the release operation. Operability is improved. In addition, since the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is released immediately after the use of the copier, the power consumption can be reduced while maintaining the operability.

A program for performing such processing may be stored in the ROM 13 of the control unit 3 shown in FIG. 12 from the beginning, but is provided by being recorded in a memory such as another ROM as a recording medium. You can also. And CP
U reads out this program from the memory and executes the program to prohibit shifting to the power saving mode when the power saving mode shift prohibition key is operated, and prohibit shifting to the power saving mode. In this state, when the paper sensor of the paper discharge unit detects that the paper discharge unit has changed from a state in which there is no paper in the paper discharge unit, it functions as a unit for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode. Further, by updating the program recorded in the ROM 13 with the program recorded in the recording medium, the digital copying machine can be provided with such a function later.

Next, a power-saving mode shift prohibition operation and a release operation of the seventh operation example relating to the power-saving mode by the digital copying machine of the second embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 5 and FIG. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a process subsequent to FIG. 5 in this operation example. The feature of the seventh operation example is that the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is canceled when the human body detection sensor does not detect a human body for a predetermined time while the shifting to the power saving mode is prohibited. Is a point.

This digital copying machine starts the processing shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 5 and 15 when there is no job being executed or scheduled to be executed. Of these, the part shown in FIG. 5 is exactly the same as the processing described in the second operation example, and thus the description thereof is omitted. Step S in FIG.
If it is determined in step 11 that the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited, the process proceeds to step S71 in FIG. In step S71, the human body detection sensor timer counter is reset and time measurement is started. Here, the human body detection sensor timer counter is a clock unit using a software timer in which the CPU 11 counts an internal clock. However, a timer unit (timer) may be provided separately from the CPU 11.

Thereafter, the flow advances to step S72 to determine whether or not the human body detection sensor 32 has detected a human body. If so, the flow returns to step S71 to reset the human body detection sensor timer counter again and measure time from zero. To start. If no human body is detected in step S72,
Proceeding to step S73, it is determined whether the count value of the human body detection sensor timer counter is greater than a predetermined time. The predetermined time can be arbitrarily set in advance, for example, 30 seconds, 1 minute, 3 minutes, 5 minutes, etc., but is set to 1 minute in this operation example. If the count value is larger than the predetermined time, it is recognized that the user has finished using and has left, and the process proceeds to step S74 to release the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode, and returns to step S11 in FIG. If the count value has not reached the predetermined time, the process returns to step S72 to repeat the processing.

Here, means for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode when the human body detection sensor does not detect a human body for a predetermined period of time while the shifting to the power saving mode is prohibited by the CPU 11. Plays a role. The predetermined time in step S73 can be set to an appropriate value according to the operation state of the copying machine and the usage form of the user.
According to the above-described processing, when the user ends use and leaves after leaving the transition to the power saving mode, the prohibition of the transition to the power saving mode can be released. Even if you leave the copier after forgetting to release the prohibition, you can release the prohibition of the transition to the power-saving mode after a predetermined time, so the power-saving mode effectively reduces the power consumption. Available.

A program for performing such processing may be stored in the ROM 13 of the control unit 3 shown in FIG. 12 from the beginning, but is provided by being recorded in a memory such as another ROM as a recording medium. You can also. And CP
U reads out this program from the memory and executes the program to prohibit shifting to the power saving mode when the power saving mode shift prohibition key is operated, and prohibit shifting to the power saving mode. When the human body detection sensor does not detect a human body for a predetermined period of time in the state, it functions as means for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode. In addition, the program stored in the ROM 13
By updating the program recorded in the digital copying machine, the digital copying machine can be provided with such a function later. According to the digital copying machine of the second embodiment shown in FIGS. 10 to 13, the functions of the above-described sixth operation example and seventh operation example relating to the power saving mode can be implemented together. Is more effective.

[Third Embodiment] Next, a digital copying machine as a third embodiment of the electronic apparatus and the image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described. First, the configuration will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the digital copying machine, and FIG. 18 is a plan view showing the operation display unit. The external appearance of the digital copying machine according to the third embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 3, but a speaker 33 is provided on the operation display unit 28 as shown in FIGS. Only the point is different from the digital copying machine of the first embodiment. Therefore, description other than this point is omitted.

The speaker 33 is a warning means provided in the operation display section 28. The operation display section 28 is also provided with an oscillation circuit and an amplifier for generating a sound by the speaker 33. Then, when an abnormality occurs in the apparatus or when it is necessary to call attention to the user, a warning is issued by issuing a sound in accordance with a command from the CPU 11 of the control unit 3. Power for driving the speaker 33, the amplifier, and the like is supplied from the operation display unit 28.

Next, an eighth operation example (the operation example numbers are consecutive numbers from the first embodiment) regarding the power saving mode by the digital copying machine of this embodiment is shown in FIG.
This will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a process subsequent to FIG. 5 in the eighth operation example.
The feature of the eighth operation example is that a warning is issued by the speaker 33 when a non-operation state in which no operation or input is performed for a preset time in a state where the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited, If the non-operation state without any operation or input continues for a predetermined time after the warning is issued, the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is released, and after the warning is issued, the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is prohibited. The point is that the remaining time until the cancellation is displayed on the display unit 26.

This digital copying machine starts the processing shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 5 and 18 when there is no job being executed or no job scheduled to be executed. Of these, the part shown in FIG. 5 is exactly the same as the processing described in the second operation example, and thus the description thereof is omitted. Step S in FIG.
If the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited in step 11, the process proceeds to step S81 in FIG. In step S81, the shift prohibition release timer counter is reset and time measurement is started. Here, the transition prohibition release timer counter is a clock unit using a software timer for the CPU 11 to count the internal clock. However, a timer unit may be provided separately from the CPU 11.

Next, the process proceeds to step S82 to determine whether or not there is any input. If there is, the process returns to step S81 to reset the shift prohibition release timer counter again and start measuring time from zero. If there is no input in step S82, the process proceeds to step S83 to determine whether or not the count value of the shift prohibition release timer counter is greater than a predetermined time t2. The predetermined time t2 is arbitrarily set in advance, but is set to 4 minutes in this operation example. If the count value has not reached the predetermined time t2, step S8
Return to step 2 and repeat the process. The count value is a predetermined time t2
If it is larger, the process proceeds to step S84 and the speaker 33
A warning sound is issued to give a warning.

Here, the CPU 11 functions as a means for causing the warning means to give a warning when a non-operation state in which no operation or input is performed for a predetermined time continues while the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited. I do. Next, step S85
And the display unit 26 as the display means displays the predetermined time t
The remaining time up to a predetermined time t3 longer than 2 is displayed.
Here, the CPU 11 functions as a means for displaying on the display means the remaining time from when the warning is issued to when the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is released. Then, step S86
Then, it is determined whether or not there has been any input. If there is an input, the process returns to step S81 to reset the shift prohibition release timer counter again and start measuring time from zero.

If there is no input in step S86, the flow advances to step S87 to determine whether or not the count value of the shift prohibition release timer counter is larger than a predetermined time t3. The predetermined time t3 is also arbitrarily set in advance, but is set to 5 minutes in this operation example. Then, the count value reaches a predetermined time t3.
If not, the process returns to step S85 to repeat the processing. If the count value is larger than the predetermined time t3, the process proceeds to step S88 to release the prohibition of the shift to the power saving mode, and returns to step S11 in FIG. Here, CPU1
1 serves as a means for canceling the prohibition of the shift to the power saving mode when the non-operation state in which no operation or input is further performed after the warning is given continues for a predetermined time.

The predetermined times t2 and t3 in steps S83 and S87 can be set to appropriate values in accordance with the operating state of the apparatus and the form of use of the user. In the above-described process, if the user is left for a preset time in a state in which the transition to the power saving mode is prohibited, a warning is issued to the user, and then the prohibition of the transition to the power saving mode is released.
After the warning is issued, the remaining time until the cancellation is displayed. Therefore, when the user does not want to release the transfer prohibition, the user can perform some operation at the time of receiving the warning to avoid the release, so that the operability of the copying machine can be further improved. In addition, by displaying the remaining time until the release, if there is time to instruct the start of the job, it is not necessary to perform an operation to avoid the release, so that the operability can be further improved. On the other hand, even when the user forgets to release the transfer prohibition and goes away, the release can be automatically performed, so that power consumption can be reduced by the power saving mode.

A program for performing such processing may be stored in the ROM 13 of the control unit 3 shown in FIG. 12 from the beginning, but it is necessary to provide the program by recording it in a memory such as another ROM as a recording medium. You can also. The CPU reads out this program from the memory and executes the program, thereby prohibiting the shift to the power saving mode when the power saving mode shift prohibition key is operated, and prohibiting the shift to the power saving mode. Means to alert the warning means if no operation or input has been performed for a preset period of time in the state of being activated, and a non-operation state in which no operation or input has been performed after the warning has been performed Function for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode when a predetermined time has elapsed, and means for displaying on the display means the remaining time until the cancellation of the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode after issuing a warning I do. In addition, the program stored in the ROM 13
By updating the program recorded in the digital copying machine, the digital copying machine can be provided with such a function later.

In this embodiment, an example has been described in which a warning is issued by a warning sound from the speaker 33. However, the warning means is not limited to this, and other sounding means such as a buzzer may be provided, or a display unit may be provided. 26, a warning message may be displayed, or a noticeable lamp (a rotating lamp, a blinking lamp, or the like) may be provided to issue a warning by light. Further, a predetermined time t is displayed on the display unit 26 after the warning is given.
Although the example of displaying the remaining time up to 3 has been described, this operation is not always necessary and need not be performed. Regarding the display of the remaining time, the remaining time from the stage when the transition prohibition release timer counter starts counting (between steps S81 and S82) to the predetermined time t3 may be displayed.

[Modification of Each Embodiment] In each of the embodiments and the operation examples described above, after the prohibition of the shift to the power saving mode is released, no operation or input is performed for a prescribed time (for example, 10 seconds). If no non-operation state continues, the mode shifts to the power saving mode. However, if the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is released, the mode may shift to the power saving mode immediately. In this case, the return destination from B in the flowchart of FIG.
Instead, step S15 may be performed. By doing so, it is possible to reduce the period during which a large amount of power is consumed while waiting in the normal mode, thereby reducing power consumption.

Also, an example has been described in which the program for performing the processing of each embodiment is provided by being recorded in the ROM.
Of course, it is also possible to provide the information by recording it on another nonvolatile recording medium (memory) such as an SRAM, an EEPROM, or a memory card. Furthermore, when a rewritable storage unit and a communication unit with an external device are provided in the electronic apparatus or the image forming apparatus, the program can be downloaded from an external device having a recording medium on which the program is recorded and executed. The present invention is not limited to digital copiers, but may be applied to various other copiers, printers, facsimile machines, image forming apparatuses such as digital multifunction peripherals, various electronic devices such as office electronic devices and home electric appliances. Is also applicable.

[0071]

As described above, according to the electronic apparatus or the image forming apparatus of the present invention, the shift to the power saving mode can be prohibited by operating the power saving mode shift inhibition key. When the operation of the device is performed for a long period of time or when the operation is troublesome, the device does not unexpectedly shift to the power saving mode, and the operability of the device can be improved. Also, if the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode can be released by re-operating the power saving mode shifting prohibition key, the user can be prohibited from shifting to the power saving mode when using it, and when the prohibition is no longer necessary. Since the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode can be released by a simple operation, it is possible to reduce the power consumption by the power saving mode while maintaining the operability.

If the prohibition of shifting to the power mode can be released by operating the mode clear key, the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode can be released by a user's usual operation, so that the operability is further improved. Can be done. Furthermore, if the user is prohibited from shifting to the power saving mode when using by releasing the prohibition to shift to the power saving mode if the user is left for a preset time in a state where the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited. Even if the user forgets to release the prohibition and leaves the device, the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode can be released after a predetermined time, so that the power saving effect of the power saving mode can be effectively used.

Alternatively, when the state of the paper surface sensor of the paper discharge unit changes from a state of detecting a sheet to a state of not detecting the sheet,
If the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is released when the human body detection sensor does not detect a human body for a predetermined period of time, the user does not need to perform the release operation, and the operability is further improved. In addition, since the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is immediately released after the use of the device is completed, power consumption can be reduced while maintaining operability. If the user is left for a preset time in a state in which the transition to the power saving mode is prohibited, a warning is issued to the user, and then the prohibition of the transition to the power saving mode is released. If the release of the prohibition is not desired, the release can be avoided by performing some operation when the warning is received, so that the operability of the image forming apparatus can be further improved.

Further, if the remaining time until the release is displayed after the warning is issued, if there is a time for instructing the start of the job, it is not necessary to perform an operation to avoid the release. Performance can be improved. Also,
If the transition to the power saving mode is immediately released when the prohibition of the transition to the power saving mode is released, the period during which the standby mode in the normal mode consumes a large amount of power can be reduced, and the power consumption can be reduced. it can. Further, if the recording medium according to the present invention is used, a computer provided in the electronic device or the image forming apparatus can execute the above-described control.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a plan view of a display operation unit of a digital copying machine which is a first embodiment of an electronic apparatus and an image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the digital copying machine.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the entire digital copying machine.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing processing of a first operation example relating to a power saving mode by the digital copying machine shown in FIGS. 1 to 3;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a common part of processing of the second to eighth operation examples relating to the power saving mode by the digital copying machine of each embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a process subsequent to FIG. 5 in a second operation example relating to the power saving mode by the digital copying machine shown in FIGS. 1 to 3;

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a process subsequent to FIG. 5 in a third operation example related to the power saving mode.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a process subsequent to FIG. 5 in a fourth operation example related to the power saving mode.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a continuation of FIG. 5 in a fifth operation example relating to the power saving mode.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an appearance of an entire digital copying machine according to a second embodiment of the electronic apparatus and the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

11 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of a paper output unit paper surface sensor provided in the digital copying machine shown in FIG.

12 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the digital copying machine shown in FIG.

FIG. 13 is a plan view of an operation display unit of the digital copying machine.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a process subsequent to FIG. 5 in a sixth operation example relating to the power saving mode by the digital copying machine shown in FIGS. 10 to 13;

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a process subsequent to FIG. 5 in the seventh operation example relating to the power saving mode.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a digital copying machine that is a third embodiment of the electronic apparatus and the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a plan view of an operation display unit of the digital copying machine.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a process subsequent to FIG. 5 in the eighth operation example relating to the power saving mode by the digital copying machine shown in FIGS. 16 and 17;

[Explanation of symbols]

 1a: Plug 1b: Power cord 2: Power supply circuit 3: Control unit 4: Image forming unit 5: Image reading unit 6: First input / output interface 7: Second input / output interface 8, 18, 28: Operation display unit 11: CPU 12: RAM 13: ROM 14: Power supply line 21: Mode clear key 22: Start key 23: Power key 24: Power saving mode shift prohibition key 25: Numeric key 26: Display unit 30: Discharge unit 31: Discharge Sheet surface sensor 31a: light emitting element 31b: light receiving element 32: human body detection sensor 33: speaker 41: paper

──────────────────────────────────────────────────の Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification symbol FI Theme coat ゛ (Reference) H04N 1/00 H04N 1/00 CF term (Reference) 2C061 AP03 AP04 AP07 CQ34 CQ41 HH11 HK06 HK11 HK19 HN02 HN15 HT04 2H027 DA29 DA40 DC12 EE07 EF16 EJ19 FA30 FB07 FB19 FC07 FC09 GA12 GA13 GA14 GA20 GA23 GA30 GA47 GA49 GB05 GB13 GB17 ZA01 ZA07 5C062 AB20 AB23 AB35 AB41 AB42 AC58 AC65 AF15

Claims (20)

[Claims] 1. An electronic device having a function of shifting to a power saving mode, comprising: a power saving mode shifting prohibition key; and means for prohibiting shifting to the power saving mode when the power saving mode shifting prohibition key is operated. An electronic device, comprising: 2. An image forming apparatus having a function of shifting to a power saving mode, wherein a power saving mode shifting prohibition key and means for inhibiting shifting to the power saving mode when the power saving mode shifting prohibition key is operated. And an image forming apparatus. 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein
An image forming apparatus comprising: means for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode when the power saving mode shifting prohibition key is operated again while the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited. 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein
Equipped with a mode clear key for returning the device settings to a predetermined state, and when the mode clear key is operated in a state where the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited, the shift to the power saving mode is released. An image forming apparatus comprising: 5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein
Equipped with a timer that measures time, and releases the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode when no operation or input is performed for a preset period of time while the shifting to the power saving mode is prohibited. An image forming apparatus comprising: 6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein
A paper output sensor is provided to detect the presence or absence of paper in the paper output unit, and a state where the paper output sensor is not in a state where paper is present in the paper output unit in a state where shifting to the power saving mode is prohibited. An image forming apparatus, comprising: means for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode when it is detected that the image forming apparatus has been turned off. 7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein
It has a human body detection sensor that detects the presence or absence of a human body around the device, and a timing unit that measures time, and the human body detection sensor detects a human body for a predetermined period of time while shifting to the power saving mode is prohibited. An image forming apparatus, comprising: means for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode when not performed. 8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein
A time keeping means for measuring time and a warning means for giving a warning to the user, in which a transition to the power saving mode is prohibited and no operation or input is performed for a preset period of a non-operation state. Means for causing the warning means to perform a warning, and means for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode when a non-operation state in which there is no operation or input continues for a predetermined time after the warning is performed. An image forming apparatus, comprising: 9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein
Display means for displaying information such as messages and settings, and means for displaying on the display means the remaining time from when the warning is issued to when the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is released. Image forming apparatus. 10. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising: means for immediately shifting the apparatus to the power saving mode when the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is released. Characteristic image forming apparatus. 11. A function for shifting to a power saving mode,
Computer storing a program for causing a computer incorporated in an electronic device having a power saving mode shift prohibition key to function as means for prohibiting shifting to a power saving mode when the power saving mode shift prohibition key is operated A readable recording medium. 12. A function for shifting to a power saving mode,
A program for causing a computer incorporated in the image forming apparatus having the power saving mode shift prohibition key to function as a unit for prohibiting shifting to the power saving mode when the power saving mode shift prohibition key is operated is recorded. Computer-readable recording medium. 13. A function for shifting to a power saving mode,
A computer incorporated in an image forming apparatus having a power saving mode shift prohibition key for prohibiting shifting to the power saving mode is prohibited from shifting to the power saving mode when the power saving mode shift prohibition key is operated. And a program for functioning as means for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode when the power saving mode shifting prohibition key is operated again in a state where the shift to the power saving mode is prohibited. Computer readable recording medium. 14. A function for shifting to a power saving mode,
A computer built in the image forming apparatus having a power saving mode shift prohibition key for prohibiting shifting to the power saving mode and a mode clear key for returning the setting of the apparatus to a predetermined state. Means for prohibiting the transition to the power saving mode when the mode transition prohibition key is operated, and switching to the power saving mode when the mode clear key is operated in the state where the transition to the power saving mode is prohibited. A computer-readable recording medium in which a program for functioning as a means for canceling the transfer prohibition is recorded. 15. A function for shifting to a power saving mode,
When the computer is installed in an image forming apparatus having a power saving mode transition prohibition key for prohibiting the transition to the power saving mode and a timer for measuring time, the power saving mode transition prohibition key is operated. Means for prohibiting the transition to the power saving mode, and switching to the power saving mode when the non-operation state without any operation or input continues for a preset time while the transition to the power saving mode is prohibited. A computer-readable recording medium in which a program for functioning as a means for canceling the transfer prohibition is recorded. 16. A function for shifting to a power saving mode,
A computer built in the image forming apparatus including a power saving mode shift prohibition key for prohibiting shifting to the power saving mode, and a paper output unit paper surface sensor for detecting the presence or absence of a sheet in the paper output unit. Means for prohibiting the transition to the power saving mode when the mode transition prohibition key is operated, and when the transition to the power saving mode is prohibited, the paper sensor of the paper discharge unit has a sheet in the paper discharge unit. A computer-readable recording medium in which a program for functioning as a means for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode when detecting that the state has changed from the state to the state is detected. 17. A function for shifting to a power saving mode,
A computer built in an image forming apparatus, comprising: a power saving mode shift prohibition key for prohibiting shifting to a power saving mode; a human body detection sensor for detecting the presence or absence of a human body around the apparatus; and a timer for measuring time. Means for prohibiting the transition to the power saving mode when the power saving mode transition prohibition key is operated, and the human body detection sensor continues for a predetermined time while the transition to the power saving mode is prohibited. A computer-readable recording medium in which a program for functioning as a means for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode when a human body is not detected is recorded. 18. A function for shifting to a power saving mode,
A computer built in an image forming apparatus comprising: a power saving mode shift prohibition key for prohibiting shifting to a power saving mode; a timer for measuring time; and a warning unit for issuing a warning to a user. A means for prohibiting the transition to the power saving mode when the mode transition prohibition key is operated, and a non-operation state in which the transition to the power saving mode is prohibited and no operation or input is performed for a preset time. Means for causing the warning means to give a warning when continued, and canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode when a non-operation state in which no operation or input is continued for a predetermined time after the warning is given A computer-readable recording medium on which a program for functioning as means is recorded. 19. A function for shifting to a power saving mode,
A power saving mode shift prohibition key for prohibiting shifting to the power saving mode, a time measuring unit for measuring time, a warning unit for issuing a warning to a user, and a display unit for displaying information such as a message and a setting are provided. Means for prohibiting a transition to the power saving mode when the power saving mode transition prohibition key is operated, and a method for prohibiting the transition to the power saving mode. Means for causing the warning means to issue a warning when a non-operation state with no operation or input continues for a preset time; and a non-operation state without any operation or input for a predetermined time after the warning is made. Means for canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode in the case where the warning has been issued, and means for displaying on the display means the remaining time until canceling the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode after the warning is issued. A computer-readable recording medium on which a program for operating the computer is recorded. 20. The recording medium according to claim 13, wherein the computer functions as a unit that immediately shifts the apparatus to the power saving mode when the prohibition of shifting to the power saving mode is released. A computer-readable recording medium characterized by recording a program for the computer.